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theravenkingx's reviews
317 reviews
Valour by John Gwynne
adventurous
dark
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
And the reader releases a breath he didn't know he was holding. (Yes, I have never related more to this line before-I think finally understood the feeling.)
If 'Malice' is a cozy, character-driven tale of a chosen one, then 'Valour' is an adrenaline-fueled sequel that leaves you gasping for air. It cranks up the stakes and delivers an action packed plot, giving you barely a moment to breathe!
Reading this book felt like speeding at 90 on a 60 mph road. I had to focus to soak in all the details and keep up with the relentless pace. But wow, what a ride!
So much was happening in this book-it felt like one gut punch after another. Every single page was packed with action, betrayal, and high-stakes drama. I barely had a moment to process the gravity of what was unfolding; it was only after finishing the book that I could finally breathe and reflect. While this made the reading experience incredibly addictive, it also left me feeling like I was robbed of the chance to fully cherish and mourn certain events. I wish the pacing had been slightly slower to allow the emotional impact to truly land as the events unfolded. That is my only critique.
The sequel excelled at expanding on the richness and complexities of this world. The character development and plot progression combined to create an immersive and addictive experience. While it toys with familiar tropes and much of it is predictable, it ignites strong emotions because it is so well written and plotted. The author knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
This installment introduced even more POVs, with several side characters truly shining. Nathair's mother and Cwyen had particularly epic development arcs, leaving me excited to see what’s next for them. Maquin (Kastell's companion) is another character that stood out but his chapters became somewhat repetitive and less engaging as the story progressed. That said, the majority of the characters' journeys were highly enjoyable, and I found myself unable to put the book down during the final 25%. The intensity of those last chapters was absolutely gripping.
Overall, it's a solid sequel, and this series is quickly becoming my all-time favorite
If 'Malice' is a cozy, character-driven tale of a chosen one, then 'Valour' is an adrenaline-fueled sequel that leaves you gasping for air. It cranks up the stakes and delivers an action packed plot, giving you barely a moment to breathe!
Reading this book felt like speeding at 90 on a 60 mph road. I had to focus to soak in all the details and keep up with the relentless pace. But wow, what a ride!
So much was happening in this book-it felt like one gut punch after another. Every single page was packed with action, betrayal, and high-stakes drama. I barely had a moment to process the gravity of what was unfolding; it was only after finishing the book that I could finally breathe and reflect. While this made the reading experience incredibly addictive, it also left me feeling like I was robbed of the chance to fully cherish and mourn certain events. I wish the pacing had been slightly slower to allow the emotional impact to truly land as the events unfolded. That is my only critique.
The sequel excelled at expanding on the richness and complexities of this world. The character development and plot progression combined to create an immersive and addictive experience. While it toys with familiar tropes and much of it is predictable, it ignites strong emotions because it is so well written and plotted. The author knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats.
This installment introduced even more POVs, with several side characters truly shining. Nathair's mother and Cwyen had particularly epic development arcs, leaving me excited to see what’s next for them. Maquin (Kastell's companion) is another character that stood out but his chapters became somewhat repetitive and less engaging as the story progressed. That said, the majority of the characters' journeys were highly enjoyable, and I found myself unable to put the book down during the final 25%. The intensity of those last chapters was absolutely gripping.
Overall, it's a solid sequel, and this series is quickly becoming my all-time favorite
The Setting Sun by Osamu Dazai
2.0
This book was incredibly bizarre. I went in expecting a story about the struggles of post-war Japan, but instead, I encountered a narrative filled with illicit affairs, suicides, and snakes. While there were a few heartbreaking scenes, I felt completely disconnected from them due to the lack of character development. We never got to understand the motivations behind the choices the characters were making because there was no character development at all. One chapter was dedicated solely to flaunt the philosophical ideologies of the author.
I should have heeded the warning signs early on when the daughter's described her mother's soup-drinking as "erotic"—a moment that made me cringe. Even the scene of when an old man kissing a young girl without consent didn't stop me from reading. Ultimately, I only have myself to blame for finishing this weird book.
The book has left me in a foul mood, not because of sadness, but because of its sheer strangeness.
The writing style felt overly ornate and vague, leaving me uninterested in deciphering any symbolism or metaphors. In short, this book was truly awful.
Spoilers:
I think the mother and father represented the old ideals, and the main character's infatuation with the older man symbolized her clinging to traditional morality and values. However, Japan was changing, and those old ideas were dying. In the end, the main character took control of her life and said goodbye to them. Her brother couldn't do it and ended up taking his own life.
I should have heeded the warning signs early on when the daughter's described her mother's soup-drinking as "erotic"—a moment that made me cringe. Even the scene of when an old man kissing a young girl without consent didn't stop me from reading. Ultimately, I only have myself to blame for finishing this weird book.
The book has left me in a foul mood, not because of sadness, but because of its sheer strangeness.
The writing style felt overly ornate and vague, leaving me uninterested in deciphering any symbolism or metaphors. In short, this book was truly awful.
Spoilers:
I think the mother and father represented the old ideals, and the main character's infatuation with the older man symbolized her clinging to traditional morality and values. However, Japan was changing, and those old ideas were dying. In the end, the main character took control of her life and said goodbye to them. Her brother couldn't do it and ended up taking his own life.
Malice by John Gwynne
adventurous
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Disclaimer: This book is malicious to melancholy and will spark a sense of euphoria that makes staying in the real world an arduous task.
I know it's strange, but I found this book to be a very cozy read. Yes, the stakes were high, people died, and things happened, but something about this book made me want to snuggle up with a warm blanket, a hot cup of coffee, and read for hours. Maybe it was the classic and familiar tropes, the magical world that was extremely immersive, or the characters that were so easy to love. Simply put, it's one of those books that you want to cozy up with and get lost in its well-crafted world that feels both familiar and unique. When I wasn't reading this book, I was thinking about it, and when I was reading, I wanted to do nothing else. It's highly addictive, and the writing is captivating.
The structure of the story adds to its charm. The story is told from many different perspectives, and even though the frequent shifts between points of view and the short chapters made it a slower read for me, I had a great time with it. Through multiple POVs, we are able to soak in the vastness and greatness of this world.
One of the standout aspects of the book is how it handles familiar tropes. The book tackles tropes like the chosen one, the prophecy, and the battle between good and evil in a refreshing and unique way. This book has near-perfect pacing. I don't recall any dull moments, except maybe for the beginning, where I got a bit overwhelmed by the large cast of characters. It was a struggle, but with each chapter, it got easier and easier, and before I knew it, I was totally immersed in the story. The author masterfully balances everything and even refreshes your memory whenever a less frequent character reappears by subtly mentioning past events they were involved in, without making it feel like repetition.
Another highlight is the book's animal companions. This book has the best animal companions. While most authors struggle to write compelling human characters, I liked how John Gwynne was able to give even the animals distinct personalities. I'm so excited to read the next book. I am pretty sure this is going to be my all-time favorite series.
LORE
The world where humans and giants once lived together in harmony, enjoying immortality gifted to them by their god Elyon, is shattered when the mysterious starstone appears, bringing with it the dark influence of the god of chaos, Asroth. While mankind feared the starstone, the giants forged items of power and wonder from it. Asroth expanded his influence, whispering and corrupting many souls. This enraged Elyon, who then punished his creation by taking away their immortality and disappearing into the other world, leaving humans and giants in an endless war. Few who survived the wars built an empire in the world called the Banished Lands.
Years later, the prophecy of the god-war looms large, threatening to bring further chaos and conflict to the Banished Lands. The avatar of chaos will rise again and only the Bright Star will be able to stop this coming war.
In this book, we follow three main perspectives along with a few others who make infrequent appearances. The main characters include:
1. Corban: Corban, a young boy whose father is a blacksmith serving the king of Dun Carreg dreams of becoming a warrior. Amidst dark prophecies and conflicting politics, he befriends a strange animal companion while facing his bullies and undergoing rigorous training.
2. Veradis: A dedicated and skilled warrior who joins the army of High Prince Nathair, one of the most powerful and ambitious leaders in the Banished Lands. His faith in the prince is tested and leads to transformative journey full of deceit and confusion, challenging is loyalty and prowess.
3. Kastell: A red-haired orphan and one of the contenders for the title of king regent, rivaling his cousin. Kastell's journey is fraught with political intrigue and personal vendetta, unlikely friendship as he navigates the treacherous path to power.
These three characters are situated in different parts of the Banished Lands, a world filled with ancient prophecies, looming God-war, different factions of giants, and intricate politics. They are supported by a vast and well-developed cast of characters, each contributing to the richness and depth of the story. Their lives intertwine as they face the unfolding chaos and destiny that binds them all together.
I know it's strange, but I found this book to be a very cozy read. Yes, the stakes were high, people died, and things happened, but something about this book made me want to snuggle up with a warm blanket, a hot cup of coffee, and read for hours. Maybe it was the classic and familiar tropes, the magical world that was extremely immersive, or the characters that were so easy to love. Simply put, it's one of those books that you want to cozy up with and get lost in its well-crafted world that feels both familiar and unique. When I wasn't reading this book, I was thinking about it, and when I was reading, I wanted to do nothing else. It's highly addictive, and the writing is captivating.
The structure of the story adds to its charm. The story is told from many different perspectives, and even though the frequent shifts between points of view and the short chapters made it a slower read for me, I had a great time with it. Through multiple POVs, we are able to soak in the vastness and greatness of this world.
One of the standout aspects of the book is how it handles familiar tropes. The book tackles tropes like the chosen one, the prophecy, and the battle between good and evil in a refreshing and unique way. This book has near-perfect pacing. I don't recall any dull moments, except maybe for the beginning, where I got a bit overwhelmed by the large cast of characters. It was a struggle, but with each chapter, it got easier and easier, and before I knew it, I was totally immersed in the story. The author masterfully balances everything and even refreshes your memory whenever a less frequent character reappears by subtly mentioning past events they were involved in, without making it feel like repetition.
Another highlight is the book's animal companions. This book has the best animal companions. While most authors struggle to write compelling human characters, I liked how John Gwynne was able to give even the animals distinct personalities. I'm so excited to read the next book. I am pretty sure this is going to be my all-time favorite series.
LORE
The world where humans and giants once lived together in harmony, enjoying immortality gifted to them by their god Elyon, is shattered when the mysterious starstone appears, bringing with it the dark influence of the god of chaos, Asroth. While mankind feared the starstone, the giants forged items of power and wonder from it. Asroth expanded his influence, whispering and corrupting many souls. This enraged Elyon, who then punished his creation by taking away their immortality and disappearing into the other world, leaving humans and giants in an endless war. Few who survived the wars built an empire in the world called the Banished Lands.
Years later, the prophecy of the god-war looms large, threatening to bring further chaos and conflict to the Banished Lands. The avatar of chaos will rise again and only the Bright Star will be able to stop this coming war.
In this book, we follow three main perspectives along with a few others who make infrequent appearances. The main characters include:
1. Corban: Corban, a young boy whose father is a blacksmith serving the king of Dun Carreg dreams of becoming a warrior. Amidst dark prophecies and conflicting politics, he befriends a strange animal companion while facing his bullies and undergoing rigorous training.
2. Veradis: A dedicated and skilled warrior who joins the army of High Prince Nathair, one of the most powerful and ambitious leaders in the Banished Lands. His faith in the prince is tested and leads to transformative journey full of deceit and confusion, challenging is loyalty and prowess.
3. Kastell: A red-haired orphan and one of the contenders for the title of king regent, rivaling his cousin. Kastell's journey is fraught with political intrigue and personal vendetta, unlikely friendship as he navigates the treacherous path to power.
These three characters are situated in different parts of the Banished Lands, a world filled with ancient prophecies, looming God-war, different factions of giants, and intricate politics. They are supported by a vast and well-developed cast of characters, each contributing to the richness and depth of the story. Their lives intertwine as they face the unfolding chaos and destiny that binds them all together.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
5.0
Think "The Last of Us," but without zombies and clickers.
This book may not be everyone's type of dystopian story. There is no zombie apocalypse or evil government forcing citizens to play deadly games. It's a story about a father and son who, depending on your perspective, are either fortunate or unfortunate to be alive in a world where most life forms have perished in some unexplained cataclysmic event. The narrative focuses on their journey and their daily struggles as they move towards the coast in hopes of finding supplies and shelter.
The book is written in a unique format. The characters have no names, highlighting the insignificance of identity and self in a world that is bleak and stripped of hope. The lack of quotations or any punctuation reinforces that bleakness. It is written as if someone is taking rough notes while struggling to document the devastation around them.
It's a profound depiction of a wynorrific father-son relationship set against the haunting backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world, with the author's minimal yet beautiful writing romancing with the despair it attempts to depict.
If you are looking for an action-packed, plot-driven story, then you will be disappointed. It's a slow burn focusing on the relationship and exploration of this newly transformed, terrifying world.
This book may not be everyone's type of dystopian story. There is no zombie apocalypse or evil government forcing citizens to play deadly games. It's a story about a father and son who, depending on your perspective, are either fortunate or unfortunate to be alive in a world where most life forms have perished in some unexplained cataclysmic event. The narrative focuses on their journey and their daily struggles as they move towards the coast in hopes of finding supplies and shelter.
The book is written in a unique format. The characters have no names, highlighting the insignificance of identity and self in a world that is bleak and stripped of hope. The lack of quotations or any punctuation reinforces that bleakness. It is written as if someone is taking rough notes while struggling to document the devastation around them.
It's a profound depiction of a wynorrific father-son relationship set against the haunting backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world, with the author's minimal yet beautiful writing romancing with the despair it attempts to depict.
If you are looking for an action-packed, plot-driven story, then you will be disappointed. It's a slow burn focusing on the relationship and exploration of this newly transformed, terrifying world.
The Island of Dr. Moreau by H.G. Wells
adventurous
slow-paced
3.5
It must have been a very controversial book in its time as it reads like a commentary on organized religion. I found the concept intriguing, but the writing was a bit too descriptive and boring for my taste. I didn't enjoy it as much as I thought I would.
The author portrays the protagonist's struggles and hardships as he goes through a life-altering journey on the Island of Dr. Moreau. He witnesses man-made hybrid creatures who abide by the rules created by their maker, Dr. Moreau. However, things become more complicated as these creatures begin to embrace their animal instincts and rebelling against the doctrine designed to keep them in check.
This whole journey is a critique on religious doctrine, highlighting how priests can be self-serving in their preachings and interpretations of religious texts. In the end, our protagonist finds enlightenment and untangles himself from the grasp of ideas that kept his mind imprisoned, choosing instead to explore the mysteries of the universe through science and reason.
The author portrays the protagonist's struggles and hardships as he goes through a life-altering journey on the Island of Dr. Moreau. He witnesses man-made hybrid creatures who abide by the rules created by their maker, Dr. Moreau. However, things become more complicated as these creatures begin to embrace their animal instincts and rebelling against the doctrine designed to keep them in check.
This whole journey is a critique on religious doctrine, highlighting how priests can be self-serving in their preachings and interpretations of religious texts. In the end, our protagonist finds enlightenment and untangles himself from the grasp of ideas that kept his mind imprisoned, choosing instead to explore the mysteries of the universe through science and reason.
My days I devote to reading and to experiments in chemistry, and I spend many of the clear nights in the study of astronomy. There is, though I do not know how there is or why there is, a sense of infinite peace and protection in the glittering hosts of heaven. There it must be, I think, in the vast and eternal laws of matter, and not in the daily cares and sins and troubles of men, that whatever is more than animal within us must find its solace and its hope. I hope, or I could not live. And so, in hope and solitude, my story ends.
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Sometimes you love a book so much that you have no words to describe it. I really don't have much to say about this book other than that it's a must-read.
Pachinko is masterfully crafted. It's a family saga that spans over decades, following four generations of the same family of immigrants living in Japan. The journey begins in a small town in Japanese-occupied Korea in the 1910s. The novel vividly portrays the brutal hardships and xenophobia faced by Koreans during that era. The family eventually relocates to the land of their oppressiors - Japan, in search of better opportunities and to escape the deteriorating conditions in Korea. Despite spending decades in Japan, the family is unable to escape the torment of being Korean in a country that despises them. It's a powerful story with characters that you can't help but love. It's a character-driven story with exceptional character development. The writing is atmospheric, transporting you into the world of the characters.
The story is also about change. The way the author tackles the change in personal values and beliefs is poignant and well-executed. The subtle change in tone and language as we move closer to modern times effectively illustrates these transformations.
The structure of the book reminded me of the Greenbone Saga by Fonda Lee. Although they are entirely different books, both follow a family's journey over decades and explore similar themes of love, sacrifice, and familial bonds. There is something about Japanese and Korean authors that hits you right in the feels.
My only complaint is how the author downplayed or skimmed over some of the atrocities of that era. The narrative doesn't mention the nuclear attack on Nagasaki and generally casts Americans in a positive light.
After finishing the book, I started watching the TV series, and I think so far the show is doing a better job of exploring the brutal realities and atrocities of the time.
Pachinko is masterfully crafted. It's a family saga that spans over decades, following four generations of the same family of immigrants living in Japan. The journey begins in a small town in Japanese-occupied Korea in the 1910s. The novel vividly portrays the brutal hardships and xenophobia faced by Koreans during that era. The family eventually relocates to the land of their oppressiors - Japan, in search of better opportunities and to escape the deteriorating conditions in Korea. Despite spending decades in Japan, the family is unable to escape the torment of being Korean in a country that despises them. It's a powerful story with characters that you can't help but love. It's a character-driven story with exceptional character development. The writing is atmospheric, transporting you into the world of the characters.
The story is also about change. The way the author tackles the change in personal values and beliefs is poignant and well-executed. The subtle change in tone and language as we move closer to modern times effectively illustrates these transformations.
The structure of the book reminded me of the Greenbone Saga by Fonda Lee. Although they are entirely different books, both follow a family's journey over decades and explore similar themes of love, sacrifice, and familial bonds. There is something about Japanese and Korean authors that hits you right in the feels.
My only complaint is how the author downplayed or skimmed over some of the atrocities of that era. The narrative doesn't mention the nuclear attack on Nagasaki and generally casts Americans in a positive light.
After finishing the book, I started watching the TV series, and I think so far the show is doing a better job of exploring the brutal realities and atrocities of the time.
The Housekeeper and the Professor by Yōko Ogawa
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
3.75
e^(πi) + 1 = 0
Euler's identity is considered one of the most beautiful mathematical equations as it brings together diverse mathematical constants. It's an unlikely relationship of seemingly unrelated elements that result in something profound. (Please don't mistake me for an expert in math; my curiosity got the better of me and led me to explore the uncharted corners of the internet.)
Euler's identity is the perfect way to describe this book. The professor, whose memory is limited to 80 minutes, forms an unlikely relationship with his caretaker and her son, whom he names Root (√). The relationship is just as unexpected and unexplainable but undeniably real as this equation.
The two things that I usually find the most boring in life are math and sports, but despite that, I fell in love with this book. It's such a unique story that, through the language of the universe—mathematics, teaches us profound lessons about love, kindness, and humanity.
The book highlights a silver lining in memory loss, revealing how it can cultivate love, forgiveness, and acceptance by setting us free from the past. The story reminds us that, while we may forget those around us, love and kindness always remain a choice. Whether we choose to be kind or unkind reflects our true character. The housekeeper shows kindness and love to the professor, and in return, he opens her eyes to the wonder of mathematics, ultimately offering her a new perspective on how to connect with the world around her.
A beautiful book that is high on vibes and low on stakes. A cozy and heart warming read.
Euler's identity is considered one of the most beautiful mathematical equations as it brings together diverse mathematical constants. It's an unlikely relationship of seemingly unrelated elements that result in something profound. (Please don't mistake me for an expert in math; my curiosity got the better of me and led me to explore the uncharted corners of the internet.)
Euler's identity is the perfect way to describe this book. The professor, whose memory is limited to 80 minutes, forms an unlikely relationship with his caretaker and her son, whom he names Root (√). The relationship is just as unexpected and unexplainable but undeniably real as this equation.
The two things that I usually find the most boring in life are math and sports, but despite that, I fell in love with this book. It's such a unique story that, through the language of the universe—mathematics, teaches us profound lessons about love, kindness, and humanity.
The book highlights a silver lining in memory loss, revealing how it can cultivate love, forgiveness, and acceptance by setting us free from the past. The story reminds us that, while we may forget those around us, love and kindness always remain a choice. Whether we choose to be kind or unkind reflects our true character. The housekeeper shows kindness and love to the professor, and in return, he opens her eyes to the wonder of mathematics, ultimately offering her a new perspective on how to connect with the world around her.
A beautiful book that is high on vibes and low on stakes. A cozy and heart warming read.
James by Percival Everett
adventurous
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
After reading some good and some mediocre books, I have finally found my first 5-star read of the year.
"James" is a retelling of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" but from the perspective of a slave named James, or Jim. I dove straight into it without reading the classic, and I have no regrets. I will probably never read the original because:
1. From what I have heard, it hasn't aged well.
2. It's a children's book, and I don't think I can handle any more of Huck. He's quite annoying.
"James" is a beautifully written story that is humorous, emotional, and often quite bleak. Ultimately, it is a tale of resilience and courage. The last 150 pages were a rollercoaster of emotions that had my eyes glued to the pages. I wasn't expecting it to get so dark, but it did, and it totally made sense.
My only complaint is the pacing. The third act felt too abrupt. The changes that James goes through happen so suddenly that we don't get the time to fully soak in his transformations, his emotions, and the implications of his actions. It would have been more impactful with a bit more development.
Spoiler
I also think we needed a bit more history about James and Huck's mother. James revealing that he is Huck's father felt unnecessary, and I don't think it added anything to the story. Instead, it raised more questions like: Was James forced, or was it consensual? And Why did nobody ever find out?
"James" is a retelling of "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" but from the perspective of a slave named James, or Jim. I dove straight into it without reading the classic, and I have no regrets. I will probably never read the original because:
1. From what I have heard, it hasn't aged well.
2. It's a children's book, and I don't think I can handle any more of Huck. He's quite annoying.
"James" is a beautifully written story that is humorous, emotional, and often quite bleak. Ultimately, it is a tale of resilience and courage. The last 150 pages were a rollercoaster of emotions that had my eyes glued to the pages. I wasn't expecting it to get so dark, but it did, and it totally made sense.
My only complaint is the pacing. The third act felt too abrupt. The changes that James goes through happen so suddenly that we don't get the time to fully soak in his transformations, his emotions, and the implications of his actions. It would have been more impactful with a bit more development.
Spoiler
I also think we needed a bit more history about James and Huck's mother. James revealing that he is Huck's father felt unnecessary, and I don't think it added anything to the story. Instead, it raised more questions like: Was James forced, or was it consensual? And Why did nobody ever find out?
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
This year, I made a promise to myself to read more classics, and this is the first classic I have read this year. Here are my thoughts on it:
Little Women was a nice, short read. I understand why it is considered a classic, especially since it was written after World War II when people needed hope and a fun story to get lost in. However, I find it to be a somewhat disjointed story of four sisters. Each chapter introduces a new part of their lives and ends with some sort of conclusion, much like a collection of short stories. There is no clear plot, and the interesting events that do happen seem random and end abruptly. When I reached the last page, I didn't feel satisfied. The ending felt unfinished, which led me to do some research, and I discovered there is a book 2.
I am not in the mood for reading book 2 now, but maybe I will someday. Little women is overall a fun and cozy read. It just wasn't for me.
The use of non-linear storytelling in the movie is, I think, a clever move. The short stories from the book fit well as flashbacks in the film, as opposed to being the main plot.
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
3.5
This year, I made a promise to myself to read more classics, and this is the first classic I have read this year. Here are my thoughts on it:
Little Women was a nice, short read. I understand why it is considered a classic, especially since it was written after World War II when people needed hope and a fun story to get lost in. However, I find it to be a somewhat disjointed story of four sisters. Each chapter introduces a new part of their lives and ends with some sort of conclusion, much like a collection of short stories. There is no clear plot, and the interesting events that do happen seem random and end abruptly. When I reached the last page, I didn't feel satisfied. The ending felt unfinished, which led me to do some research, and I discovered there is a book 2.
I am not in the mood for reading book 2 now, but maybe I will someday. Little women is overall a fun and cozy read. It just wasn't for me.
The use of non-linear storytelling in the movie is, I think, a clever move. The short stories from the book fit well as flashbacks in the film, as opposed to being the main plot.