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A review by withloveandlights
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
This book was a really beautifully written “only vibes, no plot” historical fantasy for the first 2/3 of the novel, but then became really plot heavy for the last 1/3. I enjoyed all of the descriptions and character growth in both the golem and the jinni, and I was captivated by their blooming friendship. Their conversations regarding their natures and perspectives on life were very reflective and thought provoking.
As much as I liked the “vibes” part of this novel, the last third really ruined the experience for me. I was unhappy with the introduction of the villain, there was too much time spent in minor character’s points of view, and it felt like too many loose ends were trying to be tied up in a mad dash to the end of the story. I was really taken out of the reading experience by the change of tone and pace, as it felt like all these scenes were occurring in a completely different environment than the rest of the story.
As much as I liked the “vibes” part of this novel, the last third really ruined the experience for me. I was unhappy with the introduction of the villain, there was too much time spent in minor character’s points of view, and it felt like too many loose ends were trying to be tied up in a mad dash to the end of the story. I was really taken out of the reading experience by the change of tone and pace, as it felt like all these scenes were occurring in a completely different environment than the rest of the story.