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aurabora 's review for:

The Ragpicker King by Cassandra Clare
4.25
adventurous emotional medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

I started reading this book right after finishing Sword Catcher, since I liked being in this world and was excited to continue (and my library had it available!).  In the end, I think I liked this book a little less than the first, but I still had a good time reading it.  I wanted it to be a 5-star SO badly, but unfortunately the "I can't tell him my secrets"/"You lied to me" miscommunication trope is one of my least favorites.  I was squirming at the 70% mark knowing how it was going to go downhill.  I'm still not 100% sure why Kel couldn't tell Conor what was going on in the background, since none of it was actually bad.

I think this struggle with Kel is one of the reasons I wasn't as drawn to him as a character in this book. Conor & Lin were far more interesting, and their relationship was developed a lot more. Actually, I have never felt much chemistry between Kel & Antonetta and have not become invested in their success. I suppose, with the major twist at the end, their relationship is staged to develop in Book 3.  I KNEW Prosper Beck was somebody we knew...
but I am ashamed to say I did not figure out that it was Antonetta until she sent the necklace.


I did enjoy the romance subplot between Conor & Lin and it hurt so good. 
The only part I found out of character was Lin's begging at the end for Conor to save Kel's life. Saying she would be OK just being a mistress... our Lin would never. 
And I guess that's why it went wrong...?

I enjoyed the little alternate POV sections between chapters, and thought that was a clever way to give us glimpses at the reality of situations.  It was pretty difficult keeping track of who-knows-what as everyone maneuvers around, but it kept the reading interesting.  Great summer read, and I can't wait for the next one to come out!