A review by beriboo
The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller

1.0

Unlikable Characters and Poor Life Choices

The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller presents a story that is filled with unlikable characters and questionable life choices. Unfortunately, these aspects overshadow any potential strengths the novel may have had, resulting in a disappointing reading experience.

From the beginning, it becomes apparent that the characters in this book are deeply flawed and unrelatable. They make choices that are not only detrimental to themselves but also to those around them. The protagonist, in particular, fails to evoke any sympathy or connection, as her actions are often selfish and thoughtless. It is incredibly frustrating to follow a narrative in which the characters continually make bad decisions without showing any growth or self-awareness.

Furthermore, the plot of The Paper Palace lacks coherence and direction. It jumps back and forth in time, attempting to explore various aspects of the characters' lives, but ultimately fails to provide a cohesive narrative. The story becomes convoluted and difficult to follow, leaving the reader feeling disconnected and disengaged.

The writing style itself is also a letdown. The prose lacks depth and fails to evoke any emotional resonance. The dialogue feels forced and unnatural, further detracting from the overall reading experience. Additionally, the pacing is uneven, with long stretches of mundane details followed by sudden bursts of action, making it difficult to maintain interest.

While it is not uncommon for a story to feature flawed characters and explore the consequences of their choices, The Paper Palace takes it to an extreme. The characters' bad life choices become repetitive and predictable, losing any impact they may have had. As a result, it becomes increasingly difficult to invest in their journeys or care about their outcomes.

In conclusion, The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller disappoints with its unlikable characters and poor life choices. The lack of relatability, coherence, and emotional depth hampers the overall reading experience. If you're looking for a story with well-developed characters and thoughtful decision-making, this novel will leave you frustrated and unsatisfied. It's best to explore other options that offer more compelling narratives and relatable protagonists.