A review by hickorynut
Sorceline by Sylvia Douyé, Paola Antista

adventurous fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

I was a little disappointed by this due to the pacing. It felt very rushed and I was constantly feeling as if I had missed things that were omitted due to an assumption the reader would infer what had happened. I would have much rather preferred slower pacing with a decent amount of time spent in each moment so that we have time to get to know the characters and their relationships. The quick pacing prompted by short dialogue and vague expressions just left a lot to be desired when it came to me connecting to the characters and fully being able to appreciate their individual stories. I read this in one sitting and still feel very confused as to the personalities and backgrounds of most of the characters, and unsure of interpreting their expressions.

As a former zoologist, I adore stories about cryptozoology and wish this had prioritized more of the education and creatures Sorceline was learning to work with. There were so many unique beings that made appearances through the artwork but they didn't really get any true exposure or engagement. I was left wanting more from this, for sure.