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A review by discoverelysian
The Invasion of the Tearling by Erika Johansen
adventurous
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Be sure to check out the content warnings! It might not look like it you might want to proceed with caution
I certainly did not love the first book but since I joined a challenge to finish the dusty pile of my physical books, I feel obligated to see the end of Kelsea’s story.
And here we are, halfway to the end.
There was not much development between both of my feelings towards this trilogy and Kelsea’s characterization. You could argue with me that her character indeed developed, she has changed, and bla bla bla. But for me, she’s the same old Kelsea who still worrying about her look.
I thought that is the worst thing that could happen but no, this book is getting weirder as Kelsea’s fugues took her three centuries backward—pre-Crossing era—into the life of Lily Mayhew. I get why Lily is important but the fact remains that I got bored every time I need to go to the past instead of focusing on what’s happening in the present time.
I know Lazarus would agree with me.
This book is not all bad. We have Aisa—Andalie’s daugther—who is more fitted to be Queen. She’s brave, smart, and logical. I’m proud of what she accomplished and looking forward to her story in the final book!
There is also Father Tyler. He is under so much pressure, has seen the worst but his faith and courage save him.
I also wanted to mention Ewen because he deserves the world and Pen, my heart goes out to you, my friend. Both of them are good men and I hope they survived this bleak and dangerous world.
As the story progressed, the mystery around Kelsea’s father certainly got more of my attention. I have some theories but I doubt I can guess it right. I’m afraid when it will be revealed, the truth will shock me senseless.
So many secrets were slowly being unveiled yet there are so many more hidden. I just wish all the answers and the truth will be laid out in the final book.
The Invasion of the Tearling was not as good as I wanted it to be. Nothing impressive with the characters, especially Kelsea. I felt nothing towards her except frustration towards her silliness sometimes. The blending of dystopia, fantasy, and time turner were not seamless and it often left me bored.
The mystery, the unanswered questions are the things that kept me going. I will finish this series with a disappointing ending in mind. Just in case it’s true then the fall would not hurt as much.
I certainly did not love the first book but since I joined a challenge to finish the dusty pile of my physical books, I feel obligated to see the end of Kelsea’s story.
And here we are, halfway to the end.
There was not much development between both of my feelings towards this trilogy and Kelsea’s characterization. You could argue with me that her character indeed developed, she has changed, and bla bla bla. But for me, she’s the same old Kelsea who still worrying about her look.
I thought that is the worst thing that could happen but no, this book is getting weirder as Kelsea’s fugues took her three centuries backward—pre-Crossing era—into the life of Lily Mayhew. I get why Lily is important but the fact remains that I got bored every time I need to go to the past instead of focusing on what’s happening in the present time.
I know Lazarus would agree with me.
This book is not all bad. We have Aisa—Andalie’s daugther—who is more fitted to be Queen. She’s brave, smart, and logical. I’m proud of what she accomplished and looking forward to her story in the final book!
There is also Father Tyler. He is under so much pressure, has seen the worst but his faith and courage save him.
I also wanted to mention Ewen because he deserves the world and Pen, my heart goes out to you, my friend. Both of them are good men and I hope they survived this bleak and dangerous world.
As the story progressed, the mystery around Kelsea’s father certainly got more of my attention. I have some theories but I doubt I can guess it right. I’m afraid when it will be revealed, the truth will shock me senseless.
So many secrets were slowly being unveiled yet there are so many more hidden. I just wish all the answers and the truth will be laid out in the final book.
The Invasion of the Tearling was not as good as I wanted it to be. Nothing impressive with the characters, especially Kelsea. I felt nothing towards her except frustration towards her silliness sometimes. The blending of dystopia, fantasy, and time turner were not seamless and it often left me bored.
The mystery, the unanswered questions are the things that kept me going. I will finish this series with a disappointing ending in mind. Just in case it’s true then the fall would not hurt as much.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Rape, Sexual assault, Homophobia, Misogyny, and Religious bigotry
Moderate: Self harm, Torture, and Murder
Minor: Pedophilia, Child abuse, and Emotional abuse