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froon 's review for:
Siren Queen
by Nghi Vo
casually magical and strange. the world building is vague and feels very “vibe” based to the point that i almost reads as metaphorical (allegorical?) rather than an established system. this strategy of uncertainty could work for the benefit of the novel, but, in this case, i think it detracts.
this world building issue in combination with the lack of emotional focus made this a bit of a boring read. it’s unclear who and what we are truly meant to care most about. what is lilu truly yearning for? this was highlighted for me with the split emotional climax,half with her sister in san francisco and half with emmaline on set. it was also felt with the character of greta who comes and goes, yet is involved with the highest point of action in the story. everything felt like glimpses rather than a cohesive emotional arc.
additionally, the framing of jane as one of lilu’s greatest artistic collaborators and loves made me wish we got that story instead.
there were many beautiful ideas (the dolls in particular i LOVED). however, moments aren’t enough to carry the story for me.
this world building issue in combination with the lack of emotional focus made this a bit of a boring read. it’s unclear who and what we are truly meant to care most about. what is lilu truly yearning for? this was highlighted for me with the split emotional climax,
there were many beautiful ideas (the dolls in particular i LOVED). however, moments aren’t enough to carry the story for me.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Misogyny, Racism, Violence
Moderate: Fire/Fire injury