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orionmerlin's reviews
695 reviews
Calamity by Constance Fay
adventurous
emotional
funny
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Characters – 7/10
Temperance? Solid. She’s got the snark, the skills, and the emotional baggage to carry a story. But the rest of the cast? They exist. Ven is so obviously a walking red flag that I can’t believe Temperance was this blindsided. Oksana is there to be young, hot, and conveniently naïve. Arcadio has “mysterious and brooding” down pat, but aside from his impressive physique and generically intense presence, he doesn’t have much going on. The supporting crew is fine, but no one really jumps off the page. They’re more like accessories to Temperance’s story than fully realized people. They do their jobs; they don’t steal the show.
Atmosphere/Setting – 6/10
The world-building is there, but it’s just… there. It does what it needs to do, but it’s not breaking any new ground. The Quest is your typical “lovable but beat-up ship” trope, and while I wanted it to feel like a character in its own right, it never quite got there. The desert world? Sure, it’s dusty and full of secrets, but I wasn’t exactly transported into the setting. Space politics? Standard fare, nothing revolutionary. The book leans heavily on established sci-fi aesthetics without giving them enough unique flavor to make them unforgettable.
Writing Style – 7/10
Fay’s prose is punchy, sometimes too much so. It’s engaging and easy to read, but the snarky dialogue gets repetitive fast. Every interaction doesn’t need to be a witty repartee contest. At some points, the humor actively undercuts emotional tension—why feel something when you can throw in another quip? It’s like Firefly but with fewer emotional gut punches and more forced sarcasm. The actual writing is smooth, though, and the balance of action and dialogue is solid. I never struggled to get through it, but I wasn’t blown away either.
Plot – 6/10
If you’ve read sci-fi adventure before, you’ve basically read Calamity. The pacing is uneven, with an engaging start, a saggy middle, and a decent-but-not-mind-blowing ending. Ven’s betrayal? So telegraphed that I was mentally checking off the “obligatory love interest deception” box before it even happened. The mission to scout the planet for a valuable mineral is compelling in theory, but the high stakes never quite feel high. It’s a serviceable plot, but I kept waiting for a twist that would genuinely surprise me. Instead, I got “Ven sucks, Family politics are ruthless, and phydium is space gold.” Groundbreaking.
Intrigue – 7/10
I was never bored, but I wasn’t exactly obsessed either. The book had just enough tension and action to keep me turning the pages, but I didn’t feel a desperate need to find out what happened next. The betrayals, the romance drama, the political maneuvering—it’s all fine, but nothing left me gasping. I wanted more depth, more layers, more anything to make the intrigue feel truly gripping.
Logic/Relationships – 5/10
Oh, the relationships. Where do I even start? The romance subplot is a mess. Ven’s duplicity makes Temperance look more gullible than she should be, and Arcadio feels more like a designated love interest than someone with genuine chemistry with her. The rest of the crew? They’re there, they function, but their dynamics aren’t particularly deep or compelling. As for the world’s internal logic—phydium is apparently the most important mineral in the universe, but no one seems to have a real plan for handling it. The Families are supposed to be hyper-intelligent power players, yet they act like impulsive teenagers with too much money.
Enjoyment – 6/10
I wanted to love Calamity. I almost did. But while it’s a fun ride, it never fully delivers on its potential. The humor wears thin, the relationships lack real weight, and the plot plays it way too safe. It’s not bad—I had a decent time—but I won’t be raving about it to everyone I know. Would I recommend it? If you like snarky sci-fi with a competent but flawed heroine, sure. Just don’t expect it to blow your mind.
Final Verdict: 6.3/10
Calamity is like a meal at a chain restaurant: enjoyable enough, but you’ve had better, and you’ll probably forget about it in a few weeks. It’s got action, humor, betrayal, and a capable heroine, but it lacks real depth in its world-building, plot, and relationships. Good for a casual read, but not a must-buy.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Toxic relationship, Violence, and Blood
Moderate: Death, Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Sexual content, and Colonisation
Minor: Cursing, Sexism, Grief, Alcohol, and Classism
This book explores themes of power struggles, survival, betrayal, and emotional resilience. While it’s not overwhelmingly dark, it does touch on manipulative relationships, the cost of loyalty, and systemic inequalities. There’s a snarky, humorous tone that balances the tension, but the protagonist deals with trust issues, loss, and abandonment throughout.
Life As We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.75
Characters: 5/10
Miranda is a decent protagonist, but that’s about where the praise ends. Her mom is your classic “tough but caring” survivalist, her brothers are just kind of...there, and her friends are walking tropes. Megan’s religious transformation is so over-the-top that it feels like the author wrote “zealot” on a sticky note and called it a day. Sammi exists purely to contrast with Megan, and neither of them feels like a real person. The emotional connections are weak, and I couldn’t bring myself to care much about anyone except maybe Miranda’s cat.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7/10
The apocalyptic world-building is one of the book’s better elements. The slow breakdown of society, the food shortages, the endless winter—it all feels believable and genuinely unsettling. But holy monotony, Batman! If I have to read one more time about dwindling food supplies, I might just start eating my own furniture. The small-scale perspective made everything feel too insular. I get that it’s a diary format, but I wanted to see more of the world collapsing, not just another meal of canned peas.
Writing Style: 5/10
Look, I get that diary formats are supposed to be personal, but this one reads like a series of grocery lists with emotions tacked on. The prose is lifeless, the sentence structures are mind-numbingly simple, and the dialogue feels like something from a 90s educational PSA. Big things are happening—society is imploding—but Miranda’s writing makes it all feel... dull? No sense of urgency, no poetic flair, just a plodding “and then this happened” style.
Plot: 6/10
The premise is fantastic—a meteor knocks the moon closer, and the world spirals into chaos. But after the initial punch, the story slows to a crawl and never recovers. There’s no real sense of escalation—just a gradual, repetitive decline into endless suffering. By the time things actually get dire, I was already desensitized. And then the book just...ends. Abruptly. With barely any resolution. No catharsis, just vibes.
Intrigue: 6/10
The opening had me hooked. The panic, the meteor impact, the world turning upside down—it was tense. But then it settled into the dullest survival routine imaginable. I kept waiting for a big twist, for some shocking development, but instead, I got another entry about stretching food supplies and layering clothes. The diary format kills the suspense—obviously, Miranda survives, so there’s no real tension. The biggest mystery by the end was whether I’d still be awake to finish the book.
Logic/Relationships: 5/10
So, let me get this straight: society collapses overnight, and Miranda’s mom’s first instinct is to hit the grocery store like a doomsday prepper who saw it coming a mile away? The hoarding scene was compelling, but it made no sense why everyone else was still confused while Mom was out here strategizing like she read the script in advance. And don’t get me started on the relationships—flat, predictable, and painfully forced. The mom-daughter dynamic had some emotional weight, but everything else felt like filler.
Enjoyment: 6/10
I won’t lie—I enjoyed the early parts, and the sheer bleakness of the world was effective. But then the story dragged, repeated itself, and forgot to give me a reason to care about anyone besides the cat. The survivalist aspects are interesting, but the lack of character depth and the painfully slow pacing sucked out most of the enjoyment. I wanted to love this, but by the end, I was just relieved it was over.
Final Verdict: 5.7/10
This book could have been phenomenal, but instead, it settles for boring realism over compelling storytelling. The world-building is solid, but the writing is lifeless, the plot is repetitive, and the characters are flatter than a can of expired soup. If you love slow, methodical survival stories with minimal action and don’t mind a lack of emotional depth, go for it. Otherwise, skip this and watch a documentary about the apocalypse instead—it’ll probably be more engaging.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Death, and Grief
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Violence, Medical content, Toxic friendship, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Bullying, Cursing, Domestic abuse, Gun violence, Sexism, Suicidal thoughts, Pregnancy, and Alcohol
This book centers on survival in an apocalyptic setting, focusing on themes of isolation, resource scarcity, and the psychological toll of disaster. While it does not contain excessive gore or violence, the slow, bleak nature of the story and the constant theme of hopelessness might be emotionally challenging for some readers. There is no significant on-page romance and no sexual content, making it a relatively clean read, though the grim atmosphere can be distressing.
Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett
informative
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Characters – 7/10
Emily Wilde is a fascinating protagonist if you enjoy characters who are so academically inclined they might actually perish in the wild due to sheer incompetence in basic survival. She’s smart, yes, but also socially inept to the point of frustration. The “quirky, bookish scholar who doesn’t understand humans” trope is beaten to death here. Wendell Bambleby? Entertaining, sure, but he gets by on charisma alone, and it’s painfully obvious that we’re supposed to find him mysterious when he’s really just a fae drama queen. The villagers? Half of them might as well be labeled “Suspicious Local #1” and “Grumpy Farmer #3.” The book teases depth with some characters (Thora, Aud) but doesn’t quite get there.
Atmosphere/Setting – 9/10
If you wanted a vacation to a bleak, ice-covered Nordic village without the hassle of frostbite, congrats—this book delivers. The setting is vivid, immersive, and packed with tiny details that make it feel lived-in. The folklore integration is top-notch, and Fawcett clearly did her homework. That said, while the atmosphere is beautifully crafted, it sometimes takes the lead role at the expense of, you know, actually moving the story forward. There’s only so much appreciation I can have for poetic descriptions of snow before I start checking my watch.
Writing Style – 7/10
Fawcett’s writing is elegant, but wow, does she love an academic tangent. I respect the commitment to the “dry, analytical scholar’s journal” format, but at times, it sucks the life out of the story. I don’t need a dissertation on faerie taxonomy when the actual fae are right there doing terrifyingly weird things. The prose is well-crafted, and dialogue flows naturally, but the writing occasionally gets bogged down by Emily’s constant over-explaining. Sometimes, I just wanted the book to get out of its own way and let the story breathe.
Plot – 6.5/10
Look, I’m all for a slow burn, but this is less “simmering tension” and more “waiting for water to boil while the stove is on low.” The setup is strong—isolated village, mysterious fae, a researcher who’s a little too confident in her ability to avoid disaster—but then it meanders. The tension builds in theory, but not always in execution. By the time something dramatic happens, I felt like I had spent hours in a beautifully written holding pattern. The climax is solid, but it doesn’t quite feel like the satisfying payoff the book wants it to be.
Intrigue – 6/10
Did I feel an overwhelming need to pick this book up at every spare moment? Not really. The world is fascinating, but the pacing is so leisurely that my attention wandered. Some moments spark genuine curiosity—Emily’s first real brush with fae danger, the creepy hints about Bambleby, the unsettling fate of that poor hollowed-out girl—but they’re scattered between long stretches of field notes and faerie anthropology lectures. The stakes are often so subtle that they feel borderline nonexistent.
Logic/Relationships – 7/10
The faerie lore and internal world logic? Fantastic. The human relationships? Pretty lukewarm. Emily’s dynamic with Bambleby is entertaining in a “banter-heavy, will-they-won’t-they, oh-he’s-definitely-hiding-something” way, but it doesn’t really evolve. Finn is just… there. The villagers react to Emily exactly how you’d expect them to react to an outsider poking at ancient local secrets, but that initial distrust never deepens into anything more complex. And Emily? She barely changes at all, which makes her arc feel frustratingly static.
Enjoyment – 7/10
I liked it. I didn’t love it. The book is undeniably smart and atmospheric, and I appreciate how it takes folklore seriously, but it’s also painfully slow at times. There were moments where I felt truly engrossed, only for the pacing to lull me back into mild detachment. It’s a good read, but not an addictive one. I’d recommend it to fans of slow, detailed, academia-heavy fantasy, but if you’re looking for something fast-paced or emotionally intense, you’ll probably get impatient.
Final Verdict: 7/10
Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries is like a gorgeously written research paper that occasionally remembers it’s supposed to be a novel. It’s packed with beautiful descriptions, fascinating lore, and a unique protagonist, but it’s also slow, sometimes self-indulgent, and more interested in world-building than driving the plot. Worth reading if you love immersive folklore-heavy fantasy, but if you need a propulsive story, this one might test your patience.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death and Death
Moderate: Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Violence, Blood, Kidnapping, and Alcohol
Minor: Cursing, Mental illness, Sexism, and Grief
The book leans into folklore-based horror elements, so while it isn’t overtly dark, the fae interactions carry an eerie and unsettling quality.
The treatment of fae-human interactions explores themes of autonomy, manipulation, and cultural misunderstandings, which may be uncomfortable for some readers.
No explicit sexual content or graphic physical violence, but there is an undercurrent of psychological unease in some parts.
Cascade Failure by L.M. Sagas
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
Characters – 7/10
Ah, yes, the rugged space fugitive, the gruff ex-comrade, the snarky engineer, and the mysterious AI. The gang’s all here! Jal is compelling enough, but let’s be real—he’s not reinventing the wheel. His tortured past and brooding demeanor practically scream “I have unresolved trauma and a heart of gold!” Saint plays the weary-but-still-invested former ally, Nash is a walking quip machine, and Eoan, the AI, somehow manages to be more human than half the actual humans. It’s all functional, but I’ve seen these character types before, and they don’t exactly shatter expectations. They’re well-written, sure, but distinctive? Eh.
Atmosphere/Setting – 6/10
Space is vast, dangerous, and full of corporate overlords screwing everyone over. Groundbreaking. The Ambit itself is cozy and lived-in, which is nice, but the world outside? About as fleshed out as a half-finished Wikipedia article. The Trust is Bad, the Guild is Questionably Good, and the frontier is Rough. That’s the gist. I wanted more depth—what are the political intricacies? What’s life like outside of ships and outposts? Instead, I got just enough information to get the setting without ever feeling fully immersed in it. Serviceable but uninspired.
Writing Style – 7/10
L. M. Sagas writes with a good balance of grit and wit, but sometimes it leans a little too hard into the “rugged space drama” aesthetic. The dialogue is snappy, but it occasionally falls into Joss Whedon Syndrome™—characters being too quippy for their own good. Jal’s internal monologue has some strong moments, but after the fifth variation of “I don’t belong anywhere” and “I’m too tired for this”, I started skimming. It’s not bad, but the book clearly knows it’s trying to be stylish, and sometimes that effort shows a little too much.
Plot – 6/10
Look, the bones of the story are solid—disgraced ex-Guild ranger with a past comes face-to-face with his old crew? Love it. The execution? Less thrilling. The pacing is mostly fine, but sometimes it drags, and the reveals feel more “ah, okay” than “holy shit”. Nothing about the story is bad, but nothing had me slamming the book shut in shock, either. It hits all the expected beats, doesn’t fumble too hard, but also doesn’t take enough risks. You won’t regret reading it, but you won’t be haunted by it, either.
Intrigue – 7/10
Did I want to keep reading? Sure. Was I obsessed? Not really. The emotional tension between Jal and Saint carried a lot of weight, and the mystery around his desertion was sort of compelling, but the story never fully grabbed me by the throat. The stakes felt more personal than urgent, and while I appreciated that, I wasn’t exactly losing sleep over what happened next.
Logic/Relationships – 6/10
The relationships had potential but weren’t always explored as deeply as they should’ve been. Jal and Saint’s dynamic was the highlight, but even that relied on a lot of backstory being told rather than shown. Nash and Saint had their fun banter, but it often felt like spacefaring coworkers who tolerate each other rather than a genuine bond. And Eoan, while intriguing, didn’t feel as integral to the plot as they should’ve. Meanwhile, the world-building had just enough detail to keep things coherent, but it wasn’t exactly airtight. I could suspend disbelief, but I also had lingering questions about how the Guild and the Trust actually function.
Enjoyment – 7/10
Would I recommend Cascade Failure? Yeah, probably—to someone who’s already a fan of this kind of story. If you like space westerns, found family, and Firefly-adjacent vibes, you’ll enjoy this. But if you’re looking for something that reinvents the genre or delivers a knockout emotional experience, this won’t be the book that does it. I had fun, but I wasn’t blown away.
Final Thoughts:
Cascade Failure is like a really solid sci-fi show you binge in a weekend, enjoy thoroughly, and then move on from without thinking about it too much. It doesn’t drop the ball, but it doesn’t aim for a touchdown, either. The writing is strong, the characters are compelling, and the story is engaging enough, but it plays things safe and never truly soars.
Final Score: 6.6/10 – Good, but not great. Would recommend to space opera fans, but not to someone looking for their next all-time favorite read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Confinement, Violence, Blood, and Murder
Moderate: Cursing, Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Mental illness, Torture, Grief, Medical trauma, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Drug use, Panic attacks/disorders, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Abandonment, Alcohol, Colonisation, and Classism
While the book is not gratuitously violent, it does lean into gritty space-western themes, where physical danger and past trauma play major roles.
The atmosphere is more tense than outright dark, but there are some emotional gut punches.
While themes of confinement and captivity appear, they are not prolonged or excessively detailed.
Discussions of mental strain and moral dilemmas are prevalent, though not explicitly framed as a discussion of mental illness.
Would recommend this book for fans of Firefly, The Expanse, or Cowboy Bebop, but with a bit more focus on the protagonist's personal fallout rather than large-scale galactic drama.
A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Characters: 9/10
The characters are both memorable and impactful, especially considering the novella's brevity. Dex, the tea monk, is deeply relatable as they navigate their feelings of purpose and contentment. Mosscap, the robot, offers a unique perspective on humanity and life. The secondary characters, though fewer in number, felt distinct and added depth, such as Dex’s family members and the people they serve. I found the dynamic between Dex and Mosscap particularly engaging, reflecting curiosity, compassion, and philosophical depth. Chambers excels at creating characters that are easy to describe and resonate emotionally.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting is immersive and richly detailed. The pastoral world of Panga is vividly depicted, from the wild forest where Dex and Mosscap converse to the bustling towns Dex visits as a monk. I could easily picture the world, and it felt tranquil yet thought-provoking. The blend of ecological harmony with subtle sci-fi elements created a world that felt familiar yet futuristic, which I found deeply engaging.
Writing Style: 10/10
Becky Chambers’ prose is stunningly accessible and thoughtful. Her writing feels effortless, blending simple yet profound language with a conversational tone. Dialogue flows naturally, and the balance between introspection, action, and interaction is masterful. I found her ability to craft philosophical musings without veering into pretension remarkable, making this novella a joy to read. Her writing feels deeply human, inviting, and intimate, and I’d eagerly pick up another book by her in any genre.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is understated but purposeful. The journey of self-discovery and philosophical exploration is well-paced, with no significant lulls or overly complex twists. However, the novella is less about "what happens" and more about "what it means." I appreciated the unique premise and the unfolding relationship between Dex and Mosscap, which kept the story engaging. It left me eager to see more development in future installments and offered enough resolution to feel satisfying.
Intrigue: 10/10
The novella held my attention throughout, with curiosity about Dex’s journey and the world Mosscap comes from driving much of the intrigue. Although there are no high stakes, the thoughtful questions posed by the characters and the richness of their dialogue kept me fully engaged. I found myself savoring the story rather than rushing through it.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The characters’ motivations and actions aligned perfectly with their personalities and the world’s logic. The rules of the world—such as the robots’ departure from humanity and the cultural norms of Panga—were clearly defined and believable. The relationship between Dex and Mosscap was a highlight for me, as their growing mutual understanding and respect felt natural and deeply satisfying. I didn’t notice any glaring plot holes, and the world-building struck a perfect balance between clarity and subtlety.
Enjoyment: 10/10
I thoroughly enjoyed A Psalm for the Wild-Built. Its gentle pacing and philosophical musings made it a unique and satisfying experience. Although it isn’t an action-packed or high-drama story, I found it thought-provoking and heartwarming throughout.
A Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Characters: 9/10
The characters are both memorable and impactful, especially considering the novella's brevity. Dex, the tea monk, is deeply relatable as they navigate their feelings of purpose and contentment. Mosscap, the robot, offers a unique perspective on humanity and life. The secondary characters, though fewer in number, felt distinct and added depth, such as Dex’s family members and the people they serve. I found the dynamic between Dex and Mosscap particularly engaging, reflecting curiosity, compassion, and philosophical depth. Chambers excels at creating characters that are easy to describe and resonate emotionally.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting is immersive and richly detailed. The pastoral world of Panga is vividly depicted, from the wild forest where Dex and Mosscap converse to the bustling towns Dex visits as a monk. I could easily picture the world, and it felt tranquil yet thought-provoking. The blend of ecological harmony with subtle sci-fi elements created a world that felt familiar yet futuristic, which I found deeply engaging.
Writing Style: 10/10
Becky Chambers’ prose is stunningly accessible and thoughtful. Her writing feels effortless, blending simple yet profound language with a conversational tone. Dialogue flows naturally, and the balance between introspection, action, and interaction is masterful. I found her ability to craft philosophical musings without veering into pretension remarkable, making this novella a joy to read. Her writing feels deeply human, inviting, and intimate, and I’d eagerly pick up another book by her in any genre.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is understated but purposeful. The journey of self-discovery and philosophical exploration is well-paced, with no significant lulls or overly complex twists. However, the novella is less about "what happens" and more about "what it means." I appreciated the unique premise and the unfolding relationship between Dex and Mosscap, which kept the story engaging. It left me eager to see more development in future installments and offered enough resolution to feel satisfying.
Intrigue: 10/10
The novella held my attention throughout, with curiosity about Dex’s journey and the world Mosscap comes from driving much of the intrigue. Although there are no high stakes, the thoughtful questions posed by the characters and the richness of their dialogue kept me fully engaged. I found myself savoring the story rather than rushing through it.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The characters’ motivations and actions aligned perfectly with their personalities and the world’s logic. The rules of the world—such as the robots’ departure from humanity and the cultural norms of Panga—were clearly defined and believable. The relationship between Dex and Mosscap was a highlight for me, as their growing mutual understanding and respect felt natural and deeply satisfying. I didn’t notice any glaring plot holes, and the world-building struck a perfect balance between clarity and subtlety.
Enjoyment: 10/10
I thoroughly enjoyed A Psalm for the Wild-Built. Its gentle pacing and philosophical musings made it a unique and satisfying experience. Although it isn’t an action-packed or high-drama story, I found it thought-provoking and heartwarming throughout.
A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Characters: 9.5/10
The characters are exceptionally memorable and engaging. Mona is a wonderfully relatable protagonist, balancing vulnerability with strength, and secondary characters like Bob the sourdough starter and Spindle, the clever street kid, add depth and charm. Each character is distinct and contributes meaningfully to the story. Their personalities are vivid and easy to describe, making it impossible not to root for them.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The world of A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking is immersive and quirky, with a unique focus on culinary magic that sets it apart from other fantasy worlds. The bakery scenes are particularly evocative, making you feel the warmth and coziness of Mona’s world even as danger looms. While some parts of the city could have been expanded, the overall atmosphere is rich and convincing.
Writing Style: 9/10
T. Kingfisher’s writing is sharp, witty, and deeply enjoyable. The prose strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, creating a tone that feels both light and meaningful. Dialogue flows naturally, and the narrative style is engaging, making the story easy to follow but never simplistic. Kingfisher’s voice is distinct and leaves you eager to read more of her work.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is refreshingly original, with Mona’s magical baking skills taking center stage in a story that mixes whimsy with serious stakes. The pacing is solid, with only minor moments that feel slightly prolonged. The story’s twists are clever and satisfying, and the conclusion ties things together beautifully. It’s a plot that surprises while still feeling grounded in its quirky premise.
Intrigue: 9/10
This book is a constant delight to read. While it doesn’t always demand edge-of-your-seat urgency, the originality of the premise and the charm of the characters create a steady pull that makes it hard to put down. The story keeps you invested throughout, with a satisfying mix of humor, tension, and heart.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ actions are well-motivated and consistent with their personalities. The magic system is whimsical yet logical, and the world-building supports the story without overwhelming it. Relationships, especially between Mona and Spindle, are heartfelt and believable. The political and societal elements fit seamlessly into the narrative, making the world feel lived-in and authentic.
Enjoyment: 9.5/10
Reading A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The humor, creativity, and emotional resonance combine to create a story that is as fun as it is meaningful. It’s a book that leaves you smiling and wishing for more time in Mona’s world.
A Wizard's Guide to Defensive Baking by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Characters: 9.5/10
The characters are exceptionally memorable and engaging. Mona is a wonderfully relatable protagonist, balancing vulnerability with strength, and secondary characters like Bob the sourdough starter and Spindle, the clever street kid, add depth and charm. Each character is distinct and contributes meaningfully to the story. Their personalities are vivid and easy to describe, making it impossible not to root for them.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The world of A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking is immersive and quirky, with a unique focus on culinary magic that sets it apart from other fantasy worlds. The bakery scenes are particularly evocative, making you feel the warmth and coziness of Mona’s world even as danger looms. While some parts of the city could have been expanded, the overall atmosphere is rich and convincing.
Writing Style: 9/10
T. Kingfisher’s writing is sharp, witty, and deeply enjoyable. The prose strikes a perfect balance between humor and heart, creating a tone that feels both light and meaningful. Dialogue flows naturally, and the narrative style is engaging, making the story easy to follow but never simplistic. Kingfisher’s voice is distinct and leaves you eager to read more of her work.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is refreshingly original, with Mona’s magical baking skills taking center stage in a story that mixes whimsy with serious stakes. The pacing is solid, with only minor moments that feel slightly prolonged. The story’s twists are clever and satisfying, and the conclusion ties things together beautifully. It’s a plot that surprises while still feeling grounded in its quirky premise.
Intrigue: 9/10
This book is a constant delight to read. While it doesn’t always demand edge-of-your-seat urgency, the originality of the premise and the charm of the characters create a steady pull that makes it hard to put down. The story keeps you invested throughout, with a satisfying mix of humor, tension, and heart.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ actions are well-motivated and consistent with their personalities. The magic system is whimsical yet logical, and the world-building supports the story without overwhelming it. Relationships, especially between Mona and Spindle, are heartfelt and believable. The political and societal elements fit seamlessly into the narrative, making the world feel lived-in and authentic.
Enjoyment: 9.5/10
Reading A Wizard’s Guide to Defensive Baking is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The humor, creativity, and emotional resonance combine to create a story that is as fun as it is meaningful. It’s a book that leaves you smiling and wishing for more time in Mona’s world.
Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
funny
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? Yes
4.75
Characters: 10/10
The characters are memorable and distinct, with clear personalities that are easy to describe. Slate, Caliban, Brenner, and Learned Edmund each bring something unique to the table, and their dynamic adds incredible depth to the story. Secondary characters, while fewer, are distinguishable and additive to the plot. The interactions felt natural, and their backstories and motives were explored enough that I genuinely cared about their fates. They were neither flat nor one-dimensional, making them an undeniable highlight of the book.
The characters are memorable and distinct, with clear personalities that are easy to describe. Slate, Caliban, Brenner, and Learned Edmund each bring something unique to the table, and their dynamic adds incredible depth to the story. Secondary characters, while fewer, are distinguishable and additive to the plot. The interactions felt natural, and their backstories and motives were explored enough that I genuinely cared about their fates. They were neither flat nor one-dimensional, making them an undeniable highlight of the book.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The world-building was rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the mechanical enemies, desolate landscapes, and the city of Anuket City. While the energy of the scenes was generally strong, there were brief moments where the setting felt slightly less vivid compared to the captivating character interactions. The tone struck a perfect balance between grim and darkly humorous, keeping me deeply engaged.
The world-building was rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the mechanical enemies, desolate landscapes, and the city of Anuket City. While the energy of the scenes was generally strong, there were brief moments where the setting felt slightly less vivid compared to the captivating character interactions. The tone struck a perfect balance between grim and darkly humorous, keeping me deeply engaged.
Writing Style: 10/10
T. Kingfisher's writing style is sharp, witty, and highly readable. I found the prose effortlessly enjoyable and appreciated how it balanced humor and poignancy. Dialogue was engaging and fit the tone of each character, while the narration flowed seamlessly. Kingfisher's unique voice made the story unforgettable, and I’m eager to explore her other works. The grounded charm in how she conveys grim situations with humor and heart was particularly striking.
T. Kingfisher's writing style is sharp, witty, and highly readable. I found the prose effortlessly enjoyable and appreciated how it balanced humor and poignancy. Dialogue was engaging and fit the tone of each character, while the narration flowed seamlessly. Kingfisher's unique voice made the story unforgettable, and I’m eager to explore her other works. The grounded charm in how she conveys grim situations with humor and heart was particularly striking.
Plot: 9/10
The pacing was excellent overall, with only a minor lull in the middle due to some travel-related repetition. However, the plot maintained my interest and delivered satisfying twists and revelations. The story felt fresh and subverted common fantasy tropes with its unconventional protagonists and objectives. It wasn’t overly complex or bland, and the mix of humor and peril kept me thoroughly engaged. The ending left room for more without feeling incomplete.
The pacing was excellent overall, with only a minor lull in the middle due to some travel-related repetition. However, the plot maintained my interest and delivered satisfying twists and revelations. The story felt fresh and subverted common fantasy tropes with its unconventional protagonists and objectives. It wasn’t overly complex or bland, and the mix of humor and peril kept me thoroughly engaged. The ending left room for more without feeling incomplete.
Intrigue: 10/10
The book was utterly captivating, and I often found myself wanting to prioritize reading it. The interplay between the characters and the mystery of the Clockwork Boys themselves kept me hooked. The stakes felt real without being overwhelming, and there was a strong sense of anticipation throughout. Even during slower moments, the humor and character dynamics fully held my attention.
The book was utterly captivating, and I often found myself wanting to prioritize reading it. The interplay between the characters and the mystery of the Clockwork Boys themselves kept me hooked. The stakes felt real without being overwhelming, and there was a strong sense of anticipation throughout. Even during slower moments, the humor and character dynamics fully held my attention.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The relationships between characters were a major strength, growing naturally and believably as the story progressed. Motives were clear, and actions aligned with character backgrounds and world rules. The magic system and world-building were explained clearly without becoming overwhelming. While some aspects of the world remained mysterious, I felt this was intentional and added to the intrigue. The story stayed consistent with its own logic and fit together seamlessly.
The relationships between characters were a major strength, growing naturally and believably as the story progressed. Motives were clear, and actions aligned with character backgrounds and world rules. The magic system and world-building were explained clearly without becoming overwhelming. While some aspects of the world remained mysterious, I felt this was intentional and added to the intrigue. The story stayed consistent with its own logic and fit together seamlessly.
Enjoyment: 10/10
Clockwork Boys was an absolute delight to read. The mix of grim stakes, dark humor, and memorable characters made it one of the most enjoyable books I’ve picked up recently. I couldn’t put it down and am excited to dive into the next installment.
Clockwork Boys was an absolute delight to read. The mix of grim stakes, dark humor, and memorable characters made it one of the most enjoyable books I’ve picked up recently. I couldn’t put it down and am excited to dive into the next installment.
Clockwork Boys by T. Kingfisher
adventurous
funny
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? Yes
4.75
Characters: 10/10
The characters are memorable and distinct, with clear personalities that are easy to describe. Slate, Caliban, Brenner, and Learned Edmund each bring something unique to the table, and their dynamic adds incredible depth to the story. Secondary characters, while fewer, are distinguishable and additive to the plot. The interactions felt natural, and their backstories and motives were explored enough that I genuinely cared about their fates. They were neither flat nor one-dimensional, making them an undeniable highlight of the book.
The characters are memorable and distinct, with clear personalities that are easy to describe. Slate, Caliban, Brenner, and Learned Edmund each bring something unique to the table, and their dynamic adds incredible depth to the story. Secondary characters, while fewer, are distinguishable and additive to the plot. The interactions felt natural, and their backstories and motives were explored enough that I genuinely cared about their fates. They were neither flat nor one-dimensional, making them an undeniable highlight of the book.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The world-building was rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the mechanical enemies, desolate landscapes, and the city of Anuket City. While the energy of the scenes was generally strong, there were brief moments where the setting felt slightly less vivid compared to the captivating character interactions. The tone struck a perfect balance between grim and darkly humorous, keeping me deeply engaged.
The world-building was rich and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the mechanical enemies, desolate landscapes, and the city of Anuket City. While the energy of the scenes was generally strong, there were brief moments where the setting felt slightly less vivid compared to the captivating character interactions. The tone struck a perfect balance between grim and darkly humorous, keeping me deeply engaged.
Writing Style: 10/10
T. Kingfisher's writing style is sharp, witty, and highly readable. I found the prose effortlessly enjoyable and appreciated how it balanced humor and poignancy. Dialogue was engaging and fit the tone of each character, while the narration flowed seamlessly. Kingfisher's unique voice made the story unforgettable, and I’m eager to explore her other works. The grounded charm in how she conveys grim situations with humor and heart was particularly striking.
T. Kingfisher's writing style is sharp, witty, and highly readable. I found the prose effortlessly enjoyable and appreciated how it balanced humor and poignancy. Dialogue was engaging and fit the tone of each character, while the narration flowed seamlessly. Kingfisher's unique voice made the story unforgettable, and I’m eager to explore her other works. The grounded charm in how she conveys grim situations with humor and heart was particularly striking.
Plot: 9/10
The pacing was excellent overall, with only a minor lull in the middle due to some travel-related repetition. However, the plot maintained my interest and delivered satisfying twists and revelations. The story felt fresh and subverted common fantasy tropes with its unconventional protagonists and objectives. It wasn’t overly complex or bland, and the mix of humor and peril kept me thoroughly engaged. The ending left room for more without feeling incomplete.
The pacing was excellent overall, with only a minor lull in the middle due to some travel-related repetition. However, the plot maintained my interest and delivered satisfying twists and revelations. The story felt fresh and subverted common fantasy tropes with its unconventional protagonists and objectives. It wasn’t overly complex or bland, and the mix of humor and peril kept me thoroughly engaged. The ending left room for more without feeling incomplete.
Intrigue: 10/10
The book was utterly captivating, and I often found myself wanting to prioritize reading it. The interplay between the characters and the mystery of the Clockwork Boys themselves kept me hooked. The stakes felt real without being overwhelming, and there was a strong sense of anticipation throughout. Even during slower moments, the humor and character dynamics fully held my attention.
The book was utterly captivating, and I often found myself wanting to prioritize reading it. The interplay between the characters and the mystery of the Clockwork Boys themselves kept me hooked. The stakes felt real without being overwhelming, and there was a strong sense of anticipation throughout. Even during slower moments, the humor and character dynamics fully held my attention.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The relationships between characters were a major strength, growing naturally and believably as the story progressed. Motives were clear, and actions aligned with character backgrounds and world rules. The magic system and world-building were explained clearly without becoming overwhelming. While some aspects of the world remained mysterious, I felt this was intentional and added to the intrigue. The story stayed consistent with its own logic and fit together seamlessly.
The relationships between characters were a major strength, growing naturally and believably as the story progressed. Motives were clear, and actions aligned with character backgrounds and world rules. The magic system and world-building were explained clearly without becoming overwhelming. While some aspects of the world remained mysterious, I felt this was intentional and added to the intrigue. The story stayed consistent with its own logic and fit together seamlessly.
Enjoyment: 10/10
Clockwork Boys was an absolute delight to read. The mix of grim stakes, dark humor, and memorable characters made it one of the most enjoyable books I’ve picked up recently. I couldn’t put it down and am excited to dive into the next installment.
Clockwork Boys was an absolute delight to read. The mix of grim stakes, dark humor, and memorable characters made it one of the most enjoyable books I’ve picked up recently. I couldn’t put it down and am excited to dive into the next installment.