orionmerlin's reviews
695 reviews

Characters: 5/10
When I picked up Assistant to the Villain, I hoped for characters who would leap off the page with complexity and charm. Unfortunately, they felt shallow and one-dimensional. Evie, the protagonist, is likable enough, but her clumsiness and endearing demeanor dominate her personality, leaving little room for nuance. The villain, who had the potential to be a fascinating and layered antagonist, often came across as a caricature instead of someone truly compelling. Their dynamic, while occasionally entertaining, lacked emotional depth, making it difficult to fully invest in their relationship.

Atmosphere/Setting: 4/10
For a fantasy novel, the world-building left much to be desired. The setting felt generic and vaguely sketched, with minimal effort to establish its rules or unique qualities. This lack of depth kept me from feeling immersed in the story's magical realm. I wanted a vivid and enchanting backdrop, but instead, the atmosphere felt like an afterthought, failing to enhance the story’s tone or mood effectively.

Writing Style: 6/10
The writing style is lighthearted and witty, which initially charmed me. However, the relentless focus on humor became repetitive over time, undermining opportunities for deeper character exploration or more serious moments. While the prose is easy to follow, the balance between dialogue and narration skewed heavily toward banter, which often bogged down the pacing. While I can see the potential in Maehrer’s voice, the execution in this novel left me unsure if I’d seek out her future works without a shift in tone.

Plot: 4/10
The plot suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the opening chapters, which felt bogged down by excessive banter and a lack of meaningful progression. Even as the story unfolded, the twists were predictable and heavy-handed, diminishing the stakes and making the narrative feel formulaic. By the time the plot picked up, my interest had waned, and even the climactic moments lacked excitement or emotional resonance.

Intrigue: 5/10
While the premise initially intrigued me, the execution didn’t hold my attention. The humor, which started as a strong point, quickly wore thin, and the predictable plot twists made it difficult to stay invested. There were moments where I wanted to see where the story would go, but these were overshadowed by lapses in engagement caused by shallow characters and a lack of narrative depth.

Logic/Relationships: 5/10
The relationships in the story lacked complexity and felt surface-level, particularly between Evie and the villain. Their interactions, while occasionally humorous, didn’t feel authentic or emotionally compelling. The world-building also suffered from inconsistencies and a lack of clarity. For a fantasy novel, this was disappointing, as the rules and setting should have been integral to the story but instead felt underdeveloped.

Enjoyment: 5/10
While I appreciate the effort to create a quirky, lighthearted fantasy, the execution left me unsatisfied. The charm of the premise couldn’t compensate for the lack of depth in characters, world-building, and plot. I found myself wishing for a more immersive and gripping read, and by the end, I was ready to move on. I wouldn’t personally recommend this book, though I can see its appeal for those seeking an entirely humor-driven, light read.

T. Kingfisher excels at creating memorable, multi-dimensional characters. The protagonist, as well as the secondary characters, are vivid and distinguishable, each with distinct voices and personalities. The relationships between characters feel genuine and additive to the story, and even minor players have moments that make them stand out. I deeply cared about the fates of the characters, which added emotional depth. It’s easy to describe them to someone else because their quirks and traits are so well-defined.

The world-building is immersive and rich with detail. The setting feels alive, from its eerie magical elements to the day-to-day mundanities of the characters' lives. While the atmosphere is well-crafted, I thought a few scenes could have been more vividly described to amplify their impact. That said, the tension and energy in key moments were palpable, and I felt fully immersed in the world for the majority of the story.

The prose is delightful—witty, accessible, and engaging. T. Kingfisher’s style felt effortless and unique, blending humor with moments of emotional resonance. The dialogue is snappy and natural, complementing the narrative voice perfectly. The balance between narration and dialogue felt just right, creating a flow that was easy to read but still rich in detail. I was eager to pick up another work by the author as soon as I finished this one, regardless of genre.

The plot is well-paced, with only a couple of moments where the story slows down. The reveals were satisfying and well-earned, and the narrative arc was both engaging and unique, with twists that kept me intrigued. While the plot wasn’t completely groundbreaking, it felt fresh and offered enough surprises to stand out. Even when the pacing slowed, I felt those moments added to the depth of the characters or the world-building. The ending left me feeling satisfied and wanting to explore more.

The story gripped me and held my attention throughout. It’s the kind of book I couldn’t stop thinking about when I wasn’t reading, and I was eager to return to it whenever I had the chance. The stakes and mysteries compelled me to keep turning pages, and the characters’ fates kept me emotionally invested. The intrigue was consistent and unwavering, making this a truly engrossing read.

The characters’ actions aligned well with their motives, and the internal logic of the world was consistent and well-explained. The magic system and world-building felt clear and not overly convoluted, though I would have loved even more exploration of certain elements. Relationships between characters felt organic and believable, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. Everything felt cohesive and well-integrated, with no plot points or details standing out as unnecessary or forced.

Overall, The Wonder Engine was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The humor, character dynamics, and plot made for a compelling story that I found nearly impossible to put down. It left me smiling, entertained, and eager for more from T. Kingfisher. 

Characters: 8/10

The characters in Project Hail Mary are memorable and well-rounded. Ryland Grace, the protagonist, is relatable with a compelling mix of vulnerability and intellect. Rocky, the alien character, is brilliantly conceived and emotionally impactful, making him a standout. The dynamic between Grace and Rocky is one of the book’s greatest strengths. Secondary characters, such as Eva Stratt, serve their roles effectively, though I felt some of them lacked the depth to be truly impactful beyond their functional contributions to the story. Despite this, the characters left a lasting impression, and I found it easy to describe them and their personalities to others.

Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10

The setting of Project Hail Mary was incredibly immersive. I could vividly picture the spaceship, the alien biology, and the details of Rocky’s world. The descriptions were detailed enough to feel authentic without being overwhelming. The energy in the high-stakes scenes was palpable, making the tension real and immediate. I felt completely transported into the world Weir created, though at times the focus on scientific explanations distracted slightly from the atmosphere.

Writing Style: 7/10

I enjoyed the clarity and accessibility of Weir’s writing. The humor and banter between characters made the prose engaging, and the technical details were explained in a way that kept me invested. However, I found the prose leaned more toward functional than beautiful, focusing on utility rather than artistry. The heavy reliance on internal monologues and dialogue-heavy sections worked for the story but didn’t stand out as particularly unique or elegant. While it wasn’t a dealbreaker, the writing style wasn’t what drew me to the book.

Plot: 8.5/10

The plot was tightly constructed, with well-paced reveals and an overall arc that felt satisfying and unique. I appreciated how the gradual unveiling of Grace’s memory and the stakes of his mission kept me hooked. The challenges faced by the characters were clever and engaging, and the resolution felt logical and earned. At times, I felt the scientific explanations slowed the momentum, but the strength of the narrative outweighed those moments. The premise was fresh, and the journey was absolutely worth it.

Intrigue: 9/10

I often found myself wanting to return to the book whenever I wasn’t reading it. The mystery of Grace’s mission and the evolving relationship with Rocky kept me consistently engaged. The stakes and challenges were compelling, and I was always eager to see what would happen next. I felt the story held my attention throughout, with no significant dips in intrigue.

Logic/Relationships: 8.5/10

The scientific logic in the book was impressively solid. I never felt the need to question the rules of the world, as everything seemed well thought out and grounded in reality. The relationship between Grace and Rocky was a highlight; it felt authentic and emotionally resonant, serving as the heart of the story. While the world-building was clear and sufficient, I would have appreciated more depth in Earth-side politics or the backstories of other crew members to heighten the stakes and emotional impact.

Enjoyment: 9/10

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Project Hail Mary. My engagement remained consistent throughout, and I was completely invested in the story. The blend of humor, science, and emotional depth made the book a standout experience. Although the heavy focus on scientific detail could feel slightly overwhelming at times, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. This is a book I would enthusiastically recommend. 

While The Lightning-Struck Heart boasts a colorful and distinct cast, I struggled to connect with them on a deeper level. The relentless quips and over-the-top personalities often made the characters feel more like caricatures than fully developed individuals. Sam, the protagonist, was entertaining but lacked the emotional nuance that could have made him more relatable. The supporting characters, while vibrant, were similarly dominated by snarky banter and sass, which overshadowed moments of genuine connection. The romantic subplot, in particular, felt underwhelming and was drowned out by the comedy, leaving it devoid of the emotional weight it needed.

The high-fantasy setting was undeniably creative, but it often felt at odds with the modern language and humor that permeated the story. This clash made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the world. The whimsical tone was fun in small doses but didn’t strike the right balance to enhance the stakes of the narrative. The potential for a more cohesive and enchanting atmosphere was there, but it was undermined by the relentless focus on comedy.

TJ Klune’s writing is undeniably bold and imaginative, and his talent for crafting witty, rapid-fire dialogue is impressive. However, the humor felt overwhelming, as though every single line was designed to be a punchline. This relentless approach detracted from the narrative flow and left me feeling fatigued. While the prose was engaging and accessible, it lacked the balance needed to weave in more emotional or contemplative moments. I can appreciate Klune’s style, but I found myself craving variety and subtlety.

The plot, while cohesive in its broad strokes, often felt meandering due to lengthy tangents and conversations that did little to move the story forward. The central conflict was frequently overshadowed by the humor, which diluted the tension and stakes. The pacing suffered as a result, making the book feel unnecessarily long. Although there were moments of cleverness and whimsy, the overall plot lacked the depth and focus that would have made it truly engaging.

Despite its imaginative premise, I found it difficult to stay consistently invested in the story. The relentless humor and detours in the narrative made it hard to maintain focus and engagement. There were moments of genuine charm and intrigue, but they were often lost in the book’s excessive comedic elements. I didn’t feel a strong pull to pick up the book and see what would happen next, which was disappointing given the potential of the story.

The characters’ actions aligned with their personalities, but their constant snark made it difficult to take them or their relationships seriously. The rules of the world and its magic were clear, but the modern humor clashed with the setting, creating a sense of inconsistency. The relationships, particularly the romantic ones, lacked depth and emotional resonance, feeling more like vehicles for humor than meaningful connections. While the world-building had flashes of brilliance, it was overshadowed by the book’s focus on comedy.

While I appreciated the audacity and creativity of The Lightning-Struck Heart, I found it more exhausting than enchanting. The humor, though clever at times, was overwhelming and detracted from my overall enjoyment. I can see why fans of campy, irreverent fantasy might adore this book, but the lack of balance between humor, plot, and character development made it hard for me to fully engage. Ultimately, it didn’t live up to my expectations for a captivating and emotionally resonant read.

The characters in Nettle & Bone are richly drawn and highly memorable. Marra, the protagonist, is compelling as a reluctant hero, and her journey of self-discovery and determination made me root for her throughout. Secondary characters, like the dog made of bones, the enigmatic dust-wife, and Fenris the warrior, are not only distinguishable but integral to the story’s charm and depth. Each has a distinct personality and role, and they complement Marra’s journey beautifully. I found it easy to describe each character vividly, and their growth added real depth to the narrative.

The world-building in Nettle & Bone is imaginative and atmospheric. T. Kingfisher’s descriptions of the grim fairy tale-inspired settings are evocative without being overwhelming. The creepy convent, the cursed tools, and the eerie journey all added to the immersive experience. While some locations felt more developed than others, the overall energy in the scenes pulled me in completely and made the world feel alive.

Kingfisher’s prose was a joy to read. Her writing style felt effortlessly engaging, blending wit, poignancy, and an undercurrent of darkness. The dialogue was sharp and often humorous, which balanced the darker elements of the plot perfectly. The narration flowed seamlessly, and I found the book highly readable. The blend of fairy tale simplicity with complex emotions felt unique, and her ability to weave humor into serious moments was masterful. I’m absolutely eager to pick up more of her work, regardless of genre.

The plot was well-paced and intriguing, with enough twists to keep me invested. The structure, which begins with quiet determination and builds to moments of tension and action, felt organic and satisfying. The climax and resolution were emotionally fulfilling, though parts of the middle felt slightly slower compared to the rest. The story’s mix of dark fairy tale tropes and originality stood out from other fantasy novels, though I found some reveals slightly predictable.

Nettle & Bone held my attention with its mix of suspense, humor, and endearing character dynamics. The journey was engaging, and the stakes felt real, making it hard for me to put the book down. Even in quieter moments, the strength of the characters and their interactions kept me curious and eager to see what would happen next.

The characters’ motivations were clear, and their actions aligned with the world’s internal logic. The relationships—especially Marra’s growing camaraderie with her companions—felt organic and heartfelt. The magic system was subtly woven into the narrative, enhancing the fairy tale tone without overburdening me with exposition. I didn’t encounter any glaring plot holes, and the world-building felt robust and well-balanced.

Overall, Nettle & Bone was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The blend of dark humor, heartfelt moments, and fairy tale-inspired adventure created a unique and captivating story. While a few slower sections slightly dampened the momentum, the charm of the characters and the emotional payoff made the journey absolutely worthwhile. 

Credibility/Research: 9/10  
The book feels trustworthy, drawing on a well-rounded combination of personal experiences and solid psychological research. Devon Price references studies and interviews extensively, which gave me confidence in their arguments. They also include a broad range of perspectives, ensuring the analysis considers factors like race, gender, and socioeconomic status. I found their approach balanced overall, though I noticed an underlying advocacy tone that felt slightly agenda-driven at times.

Authenticity/Uniqueness: 8/10 
I appreciated how the book brought a fresh angle to the topic by focusing on masking and its implications for autistic individuals. This was an area I hadn’t seen explored in depth in other neurodiversity literature, making the book feel unique. However, there were moments when I felt certain ideas overlapped with existing discussions on autism, which diluted the originality slightly.

Writing: 8/10 
The writing was clear, engaging, and accessible. I found the conversational tone easy to follow and appreciated the lack of technical jargon, which made the content relatable and enjoyable. However, I felt the book occasionally became repetitive, especially when emphasizing societal harms, which disrupted the flow and made certain sections feel slower.

Personal Impact: 9/10 
The book had a significant impact on me. It deepened my understanding of neurodiversity, particularly the concept of masking, and provided actionable insights on self-acceptance. Price’s empathetic exploration of systemic pressures felt transformative and left me with a lasting impression. However, I felt this impact might resonate most with those who see themselves or their loved ones in the experiences described.

Intrigue: 7/10 
The subject matter kept my attention, and the personal stories interwoven with research added depth and relatability. I found the exploration of masking particularly compelling. That said, there were sections where the pacing felt uneven or overly detailed, which caused my engagement to waver at times.

Logic/Informativeness: 8/10
The book felt logical and well-structured, with arguments supported by clear evidence. I found the exploration of systemic biases and the intersections of neurodiversity with other identities particularly informative and thought-provoking. However, some points felt touched upon rather than fully explored, leaving me wishing for greater depth in certain areas.

Enjoyment: 8/10
Overall, I enjoyed the book. The combination of empathy, humor, and insightful commentary made it both informative and emotionally satisfying. However, the slower pacing in some sections and occasional repetition reduced my enjoyment slightly.

Paladin's Faith delivers unforgettable characters, especially with the protagonists: Galen, a paladin grappling with his purpose and faith, and Marguerite, a woman full of determination and warmth. Their dynamic is compelling, with both characters feeling authentic and layered. The secondary characters, including returning favorites and new additions, enhance the story without overshadowing the leads. Kingfisher’s knack for making even side characters memorable stood out, and I was deeply invested in the fates of these individuals.

The setting is rich with the gritty, earthy charm that defines the Saint of Steel series. There’s a captivating mix of cozy and unsettling elements that pulled me into the story. The locations—whether tense village encounters or the eerie moments involving the dangers Galen and Marguerite face—are vividly portrayed. The energy in key scenes was palpable, and I found the atmosphere consistently immersive and engaging.

Kingfisher’s writing is a masterful balance of humor, poignancy, and action. The prose flows effortlessly, making the story both accessible and beautifully crafted. The dialogue is sharp, authentic, and contributes significantly to both character development and humor. This book reinforced my love for Kingfisher’s unique voice, and I am eager to explore more of her works, no matter the genre.

The plot is a satisfying blend of romance, action, and emotional stakes. The pacing kept me consistently engaged, and the tension was expertly maintained. The romantic subplot between Galen and Marguerite feels deeply natural and earned, seamlessly integrated into the narrative. While the central mystery and stakes were solid, they felt a little less surprising than earlier installments, but the emotional depth and character arcs more than made up for it.

I was completely hooked by the story’s mix of romance, mystery, and action. Kingfisher excels at creating a narrative where I was equally invested in the characters’ relationships and the external threats they faced. The humor and heart interspersed with danger created a compelling rhythm that made the book impossible to put down. I felt a constant desire to find out what would happen next.

The relationships in Paladin's Faith feel completely authentic and well-developed, particularly the romantic connection between the leads. Their interactions are grounded in mutual respect and understanding, and their bond felt deeply believable and heartwarming. The rules of the world and its magic remain consistent, and the smaller-scale world-building supports the story perfectly. The motivations and outcomes aligned seamlessly with the established logic of the world.

This installment is thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish. The delightful mix of humor, romance, and emotional depth kept me fully engaged, and the consistent quality of the writing and satisfying character arcs left me feeling fulfilled and eager for more. 

The characters in The Odyssey are memorable, with Odysseus standing out as a complex and flawed protagonist. However, while the secondary characters like Penelope and Telemachus are important to the story, I felt that some of them lacked depth and came across as archetypes rather than fully realized individuals. Despite Wilson’s accessible translation, I did not feel particularly invested in what happened to all of the characters, and some felt one-dimensional.

Wilson’s translation effectively brought the ancient world to life in certain moments, such as the vivid descriptions of the Cyclops’ cave and Circe’s island. However, I found that some scenes lacked the immersive quality I was expecting. The repetitive descriptions characteristic of oral epics often broke the sense of immediacy for me, and the energy of certain moments felt inconsistent.

While I appreciated Emily Wilson’s modern and readable approach, I found the writing style lacked the elegance I had hoped for. The clarity of her prose was a strength, but it sometimes felt too pared down, losing some of the epic’s grandeur. I found the balance between dialogue and narration uneven, and while the story flowed well enough, the prose did not leave a lasting impression on me.

The plot of The Odyssey is undeniably classic, but I found the pacing uneven. Some parts, like Odysseus’s recounting of his adventures to the Phaeacians, felt overly drawn out and tedious. While the overarching story of Odysseus’s journey home is compelling, the episodic structure made it feel repetitive at times. The reveals and resolutions were satisfying in moments, but the overall journey didn’t consistently keep me engaged.

I found it difficult to stay consistently interested in the story. While certain moments, such as Odysseus’s encounters with the Cyclops and the suitors’ eventual downfall, were engaging, other sections required effort to get through. I often had to convince myself to pick the book back up, as the story didn’t always hold my attention.

The characters’ motives generally made sense, and the mythic logic of the world was clear enough. However, I felt that some relationships, particularly between minor characters, lacked depth and impact. While Odysseus and Penelope’s bond was a highlight, other connections felt underdeveloped or overly simplified, making the world and its relationships feel less cohesive than I would have liked.

Overall, my enjoyment of The Odyssey was inconsistent. While there were moments of intrigue and beauty, they were often overshadowed by sections that felt tedious or repetitive. I appreciated the modern sensibility of the translation, but I didn’t find myself fully immersed in the story or eager to return to it. 

T. Kingfisher creates memorable, quirky characters. Galen and Piper have distinct personalities, their chemistry is engaging, and they are easy to describe. Secondary characters, like the supporting clergy and even minor figures, are fleshed out and contribute meaningfully to the narrative. The characters’ motivations were clear, and their struggles resonated with me emotionally, making it easy to care about what happens to them.

The world-building is solid, with vivid descriptions that balance whimsical and dark tones. I could picture the gothic atmosphere, the interplay of the divine and mundane, and the oddities of the magical world. However, not all scenes had the same level of energy or immersion, and some quieter moments felt less atmospheric than I would have liked.

T. Kingfisher’s writing is accessible, humorous, and poignant. The prose feels effortless, with a conversational tone that doesn’t detract from the emotional beats or world-building. Dialogue is snappy and engaging, fitting seamlessly into the narration. I enjoyed the blend of humor and heartfelt moments, which left me eager for more of her work.

The plot is well-paced, avoiding major lulls or unnecessary complexity. While it delivers satisfying twists and builds intrigue effectively, it didn’t feel particularly groundbreaking. The central mystery and romantic subplot were interwoven neatly, and the resolution was rewarding, but the overall story didn’t surprise me in a way that set it apart from others in the genre.

The book is engaging, balancing lighthearted romance with darker mystery elements. The interplay between the protagonists and the looming danger kept me interested. I wanted to keep reading to unravel both the plot and the characters’ relationships, though there were moments where the tension dipped slightly.

The characters’ actions align with their personalities and motivations, and the rules of the world are consistently followed. Relationships—romantic, platonic, and antagonistic—are well-developed and felt natural rather than forced. The magical elements and world-building are clear and consistent, but I occasionally felt that more depth could have been added to the setting or backstory.

The blend of humor, mystery, and romance created an enjoyable reading experience for me. T. Kingfisher’s unique voice made the book stand out, and although it wasn’t the most profound or life-changing story, it delivered on its promises and left me satisfied. 

T. Kingfisher excels at creating memorable, distinct, and lovable characters. The protagonist, Halla, is relatable and layered, and Sarkis, the enchanted sword warrior, is an excellent blend of gruffness and vulnerability. The secondary characters, from quirky nuns to sinister antagonists, felt purposeful and additive, providing humor, tension, and intrigue. Every character felt vivid and easy to describe, and their interactions were heartfelt and entertaining. I cared deeply about what happened to them.

The setting was immersive and vivid, with a world that felt lived-in without being over-described. The cozy but dangerous atmosphere of the world matched the tone perfectly. Scenes in inns, dusty roads, and strange magical spaces came alive, and the energy in key moments—be it danger, humor, or emotional depth—was palpable to me. While it wasn’t as grand or intricate as some epic fantasy settings, it was richly satisfying and fit the story perfectly.

Kingfisher's writing was a delight. The prose was witty, conversational, and fluid, balancing humor and emotional depth with ease. The dialogue felt natural and often hilarious, while the narration carried a warmth that drew me in. The style was approachable yet unique, and I fell into the rhythm of the story effortlessly. I’d happily pick up another book by Kingfisher in any genre based on this experience.

The plot was well-paced and satisfying, blending romance, humor, and action seamlessly. It felt fresh in how it subverted traditional fantasy tropes while still delivering the expected payoff. While there were a few moments where the journey lingered slightly too long in certain areas, the overall story kept me engaged. The resolution was deeply satisfying, and I felt the journey was worth it.

The story held my attention consistently, especially due to its engaging characters and witty dialogue. I often found myself eager to return to it, and the blend of humor and stakes kept me fully invested. The unfolding of events was gripping, and I wanted to see how everything would play out.

The characters' motives were clear, and their actions made sense within the world’s rules. The relationships, particularly between Halla and Sarkis, were wonderfully developed, blending tension, humor, and genuine care. The world-building was sufficient without being overwhelming, and the magic system and rules were consistent. I didn’t notice any plot holes, and the story struck a perfect balance between clarity and intrigue. Everything fit together in a way that felt seamless.

I absolutely loved this book. Its mix of humor, heart, and adventure kept me entertained throughout, and the charm of the characters and the wit of the writing made it an experience I didn’t want to end. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.