orionmerlin's reviews
695 reviews

The Hollow Places by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Characters: 8/10
The protagonist, Kara ("Carrot"), was relatable and vividly developed, with a strong voice that carried the story. Simon, the secondary character, stood out as essential, with his dry humor and quirky personality adding depth and levity. I found their interactions genuine, and their evolving relationship enriched the narrative. Even tertiary characters, like Kara's uncle, left an impression despite limited page time. While the characters were compelling, I felt some additional depth could have made them even more memorable.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8/10
The setting was effective in blending eerie, fantastical, and surreal elements, creating a vivid sense of place. The imagery of the otherworldly "hollow places" was chilling and immersive, and I could easily visualize the strange, horrifying environment. The atmosphere had a persistent tension, and T. Kingfisher did a great job of evoking dread while maintaining moments of dark humor. While the setting was impressive, I felt there were moments where more sensory details could have enhanced the immersion further.
Writing Style: 8/10
I enjoyed Kingfisher’s prose, which was sharp, engaging, and easy to follow, with a conversational tone that suited the protagonist’s personality. The blend of horror and humor was well-handled, and the dialogue felt natural. However, there were moments where the narrative flow faltered slightly, and I found myself wishing for a bit more polish in certain sections. Despite this, the writing style was strong enough to make me interested in exploring more of Kingfisher’s work.
Plot: 8/10
The pacing worked well for most of the story, with a compelling central mystery and reveals that were satisfying without being overly expositional. The plot felt refreshingly unique, standing out with its blend of Lovecraftian influences and personal stakes. However, there were moments where the momentum dipped slightly, and I felt the resolution could have delved deeper into the mysterious world introduced in the story. While satisfying overall, a bit more exploration of the plot’s intricacies would have elevated the experience.
Intrigue: 8/10
I felt drawn into the story and was consistently intrigued by the world beyond the portal and the characters’ survival. The mix of horror, humor, and mystery kept me engaged, and I was eager to see what would happen next. However, there were occasional lulls in the narrative where my attention waned slightly, though these moments were brief and didn’t detract significantly from the overall intrigue.
Logic/Relationships: 8/10
The characters’ actions felt grounded in their motives and personalities, making their decisions believable. The world-building was clear and effective, with a sense of menace that enhanced the story’s internal logic. While some aspects of the hollow places remained ambiguous, I felt that this worked well for the otherworldly horror. The relationships, especially between Kara and Simon, felt authentic, though there were moments where additional development could have strengthened their impact.
Enjoyment: 8/10
I enjoyed the book’s mix of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments, and my engagement remained consistent throughout. T. Kingfisher’s ability to weave an unsettling narrative while keeping it accessible and entertaining impressed me. However, there were occasional points where the story didn’t fully capture my attention, which tempered my overall enjoyment slightly. 
Paladin's Strength by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous funny medium-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
T. Kingfisher excels at creating memorable, multi-dimensional characters. The protagonists, especially Istvhan and Clara, are rich with personality, and their dynamic is both endearing and compelling. Secondary characters like the other nuns and supporting cast members are distinct and additive to the story, providing depth without overshadowing the main plot. I cared deeply about what happened to them, and their quirks made them easy to describe to a friend. Clara’s resilience and Istvhan’s humor and honor stood out as highlights.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The settings are vivid, particularly the dangerous wilderness and eerie cult-like locations. The descriptions of both mundane and fantastical elements, including the unique creatures, were immersive. While the atmosphere didn’t always hit the "wow" factor that elevates a story to the next level, the world-building pulled me in completely. The tone perfectly balanced dark tension with humor, which kept me engaged.
Writing Style: 10/10
Kingfisher’s writing is accessible, witty, and full of charm. Her prose is engaging without feeling overly ornate, and the dialogue is sharp and often hilarious. The balance between narration and dialogue felt seamless, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. I loved the humor woven into even the darker moments, and her ability to blend warmth and grotesque elements stood out as a unique signature. This style would absolutely encourage me to pick up another book by her, regardless of genre.
Plot: 9/10
The pacing felt solid, with only a few moments where the story meandered slightly. The plot itself was intriguing and satisfying, with plenty of action, mystery, and romance to keep things moving. While some elements felt familiar compared to other fantasy stories I’ve read, there were enough twists and unique features to make the story feel fresh. The blend of romance and adventure was particularly well done, and the climax was both satisfying and emotional.
Intrigue: 10/10
The book held my attention remarkably well, thanks to the sharp character interactions and the mysteries surrounding the cult. I found myself wanting to pick it up whenever I had a free moment. The balance between intrigue, action, and romance ensured there was always something to look forward to, and the momentum stayed strong throughout.
Logic/Relationships: 10/10
The relationships between characters, particularly Istvhan and Clara, felt organic and deeply rooted in their respective backstories. Their actions were consistent with their motives and personalities, and the magic system and world-building were clear and cohesive. I appreciated the balance between providing enough information to understand the world and avoiding unnecessary detail. The rules of the world were maintained, and everything fit together well without any significant plot holes.
Enjoyment: 10/10
The book was an absolute joy to read, blending humor, heart, and action seamlessly. I found it consistently entertaining and satisfying, with a tone that felt both comforting and exciting. While it didn’t reinvent the wheel in terms of fantasy tropes, it executed them so well that it didn’t matter to me. 
Illuminations by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-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

3.75

Characters: 8/10
T. Kingfisher creates memorable and relatable characters. The protagonist is well-developed, and secondary characters add meaningful layers to the story. The relationships feel genuine, and even minor characters contribute something important. While the characters lingered in my mind after reading, I felt some lacked a bit more depth to make them truly stand out.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7/10
The world-building is imaginative and immersive, with settings that are easy to visualize. However, I felt a few scenes could have been fleshed out further to make the atmosphere even more vivid. While the energy of most scenes was convincing, there were moments where the immersion dipped slightly.
Writing Style: 8/10
Kingfisher’s prose is witty, readable, and full of charm. The balance between dialogue and narration feels natural, and the humor and emotional beats are well-timed. While the writing is engaging and flows well, it didn’t always feel effortless or entirely unique. That said, I’d definitely pick up another book by this author.
Plot: 7/10
The plot is solid and satisfying, with good pacing overall. However, a few sections dragged slightly, and some twists felt predictable. While the reveals were enjoyable, the story didn’t completely surprise me or feel significantly different from others in the genre. Still, it ties together well and leaves little unresolved.
Intrigue: 7/10
The story kept me interested, but it wasn’t a constant page-turner. There were moments where my attention waned, and I found myself needing a bit of convincing to pick it back up. However, the blend of mystery and humor ensured I stayed invested enough to see how it all unfolded.
Logic/Relationships: 8/10
The characters’ actions felt consistent with their motivations, and the relationships evolved naturally. The world-building was clear and fit the story well, with no glaring inconsistencies. While the rules of the magic system made sense, some aspects could have been explained in greater depth to enhance clarity.
Enjoyment: 7/10
I enjoyed Illuminations overall, but my enjoyment wasn’t entirely consistent throughout. While it had moments of charm and excitement, there were sections where my engagement dipped slightly. Even so, it’s a book I’m glad I read and would recommend with minor reservations. 
The Twisted Ones by T. Kingfisher

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Characters: 7/10
The protagonist, Mouse, was relatable and had a distinct voice that balanced humor and vulnerability. Secondary characters like Foxy and the dog Bongo stood out and added to the story, but I felt that some of the other secondary characters were underdeveloped, serving more as functional elements than fully realized individuals. While I could describe the main characters to a friend, a few lacked the depth I was hoping for.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7.5/10
The atmosphere was eerie and immersive, with the rural woods setting effectively conveying isolation and dread. The descriptions of the supernatural were grotesque and memorable, creating an unsettling vibe that lingered throughout the book. However, while the imagery was vivid, I sometimes felt it overwhelmed the narrative, making it harder to stay immersed.
Writing Style: 7.5/10
Kingfisher's writing was engaging, with a conversational tone that made the book easy to read. The balance between humor and horror was well-executed, and the descriptions had a haunting beauty. That said, while I enjoyed the prose, it didn’t always feel effortless, and I occasionally found the humor clashing with the darker moments. I would still be interested in reading more from this author in a different genre.
Plot: 6.5/10
The pacing was generally solid, with an intriguing start and satisfying reveals. I appreciated the unique blend of cosmic horror and folklore, which kept the story fresh. However, some parts in the middle dragged and felt repetitive, which dulled the tension. The ending left several questions unanswered, which frustrated me as I felt more clarity was needed to bring the story full circle.
Intrigue: 7/10
I was curious to see where the story would go and wanted to uncover its mysteries, but the slower sections made it harder to maintain that interest at times. While the mix of horror and folklore held my attention overall, I wasn’t always compelled to pick it up over other activities.
Logic/Relationships: 6.5/10
The characters’ actions made sense within the context of their personalities, and the world-building was intriguing, particularly the supernatural aspects. However, I found some of the rules of the world too ambiguous, and I felt that certain relationships lacked the depth needed to enhance the story’s emotional stakes. The supernatural rules felt inconsistent, which sometimes pulled me out of the narrative.
Enjoyment: 7/10
Overall, I enjoyed the book, particularly its mix of horror and humor, which felt unique and refreshing. However, the slower pacing, unanswered questions, and occasional tonal clashes tempered my enjoyment. While I appreciated much of what it offered, my experience wasn’t consistently engaging. 
Paladin's Grace by T. Kingfisher

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adventurous funny mysterious medium-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

4.5

Characters: 9/10
The characters are one of the strongest aspects of Paladin's Grace. Graceful and nuanced, they are memorable and well-rounded. Stephen, the main character, is compelling as a broken, self-doubting paladin, and his growth is both subtle and satisfying. Grace, the perfumer, is equally rich and distinct, offering a delightful mix of cleverness and vulnerability. The secondary characters, such as Bishop Beartongue and the other paladins, are quirky and add depth and humor. Their motives are clear, and they contribute significantly to the plot. I found it easy to describe each character’s personality, and their chemistry is palpable.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
Kingfisher does a good job immersing me in the world, particularly with her focus on smaller, lived-in details. The world feels tactile and richly imagined, from the perfumer’s workshop to the tense streets of the city. However, the broader political or geographical elements of the setting could use more depth—there’s a slight vagueness to the larger worldbuilding. The energy in individual scenes, especially during action or moments of tension, felt vivid and convincing.
Writing Style: 9/10
Kingfisher’s writing is witty, sharp, and beautifully approachable. The humor and humanity in her prose made the book highly readable. The dialogue flows naturally, and the balance between narration and dialogue felt nearly perfect. Her style seems effortless and yet uniquely her own, blending warmth with a touch of irreverence. The descriptions are evocative without being overwrought. 
Plot: 9/10
The plot is satisfying and well-paced, though it leans more heavily on character interactions and personal stakes than epic twists or grand reveals. There are some unique elements, such as the mix of romance, intrigue, and action, but the overarching narrative is somewhat predictable. It doesn’t drag, and each piece fits together well. While it doesn’t push the boundaries of originality, I found it well-executed and left me feeling content by the end.
Intrigue: 9/10
The book’s charm and engaging characters made it hard for me to put down, especially in the first half. The combination of romance and danger keeps the story moving. While it isn’t an edge-of-your-seat thriller, there’s enough intrigue in the world’s mysteries and character relationships to hold my attention throughout. Occasionally, the stakes felt a little lower than they could have been, which made it easy to take breaks without a desperate urge to return.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The relationships in this book shine. Stephen and Grace’s bond develops organically, and their actions feel consistent with their motivations and past traumas. The worldbuilding is clear and doesn’t bog me down with unnecessary details. The magic and political systems, while not the focus, are consistent and logical. I didn’t encounter any glaring plot holes or moments where disbelief overwhelmed the story. Everything fits together with satisfying precision.
Enjoyment: 9/10
Paladin's Grace is a delightful mix of humor, romance, and adventure. It’s a deeply satisfying read that balances warmth with excitement. While it doesn’t appeal to someone looking for fast-paced epic fantasy, its charm lies in its characters and their journey. My enjoyment was consistent throughout, and I’d happily recommend it. 
A House With Good Bones by T. Kingfisher

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dark funny mysterious tense medium-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? No

3.75

Characters: 8/10
The characters in A House With Good Bones are engaging and memorable, especially the protagonist. T. Kingfisher excels at crafting relatable, intelligent, and nuanced characters. The secondary characters, particularly the protagonist’s mother and other family members, play a significant role in the story’s progression. Each character has a distinct personality, making them easy to describe and care about. I found the relationships and dynamics authentic and additive to the narrative.
Atmosphere/Setting: 7/10
Kingfisher's talent for creating immersive settings is evident, though I didn’t feel it was as atmospheric as in some of her other works. The house itself has an eerie, unsettling vibe that complements the story’s themes. While I could picture the setting well, I wanted more detail or tension in certain scenes to heighten the immersion further.
Writing Style: 8/10
T. Kingfisher’s writing is engaging, witty, and balances humor with darker elements effectively. The dialogue feels natural, and the narrative flows well. Her ability to inject personality into her prose made this an enjoyable read, and I would be interested in exploring more of her work in other genres.
Plot: 7/10
The plot is unique and satisfying, with steady pacing for most of the book. I found some moments in the middle stretch slower than necessary, though they helped build tension. The reveals were enjoyable, though certain elements of the resolution felt predictable to me. Overall, the plot strikes a good balance between mystery, horror, and humor, leaving a positive impression.
Intrigue: 7/10
The story consistently held my interest, with enough twists and suspenseful moments to keep me engaged. Kingfisher’s blend of quirky characters and eerie events created a compelling narrative, though it wasn’t always a book I felt I couldn’t put down.
Logic/Relationships: 7/10
The characters' actions and motivations were clear and consistent, contributing to a solid narrative. The world-building was sufficient without being overwhelming, though I felt certain elements of the supernatural could have been explained more thoroughly. The relationships between characters, especially the familial ties, felt organic and enriched the story.
Enjoyment: 7/10
I enjoyed the book overall, though my enjoyment wasn’t entirely consistent throughout. The protagonist's voice and Kingfisher’s writing style kept me engaged, but I felt the story could have maintained a stronger sense of tension and atmosphere. 
Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher

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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? Yes

4.5

Characters: 9/10
The characters in Thornhedge are memorable and easy to visualize. Toadling, the protagonist, is unique and richly developed, with a personality that is both relatable and distinct. I found the secondary characters distinguishable, and they contributed meaningfully to the narrative. The dynamic between the characters felt genuine and engaging, and even though I would have liked a bit more depth for some of the secondary cast, the overall characterization was strong.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The setting is vivid and immersive, blending the magical with the mundane in a way that feels enchanting. I could easily picture the hedge, its dangers, and the world Toadling inhabits, all of which created a compelling atmosphere. The descriptions are atmospheric and transportive, and while I wanted a touch more sensory detail in some places, the overall experience was rich and captivating.
Writing Style: 10/10
T. Kingfisher's prose is both accessible and beautiful, with a whimsical, fairy-tale quality that feels fresh and unique. I loved the balance between dialogue and narration, and the flow of the writing made it hard to put the book down. The humor and heart in the writing stood out to me as some of the book's best features. I found the style to be flawless and captivating.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is a clever twist on familiar fairy-tale tropes, with surprising turns that kept it fresh and engaging. I felt the pacing was solid, and the reveals were satisfying. The story is concise, avoiding unnecessary fluff while still delivering a complete narrative. While I would have enjoyed a longer exploration of the world and its intricacies, the plot’s tight focus felt appropriate for the story being told.
Intrigue: 9/10
The story held my attention and steadily built tension and curiosity about Toadling's backstory and the secrets of the hedge. I felt compelled to keep turning pages to find out what would happen next. While there were a few quieter moments, they served as necessary breathers rather than detracting from the overall intrigue. The balance between action and introspection worked well for me.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ actions and relationships felt believable and aligned with their motivations. The world-building was subtle but effective, and I found the magic system to be consistent and grounded within the fairy-tale logic of the story. While some aspects of the world and its rules could have been explored more deeply, I found the relationships and motives clear and compelling. Everything fit together in a way that felt cohesive and satisfying.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Thornhedge. The blend of whimsy and darkness was beautifully balanced, and the humor, emotion, and magic made it a delight to read. While I wanted more time with some themes and characters, the story was consistently engaging and satisfying. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish. 
The Crane Husband by Kelly Barnhill

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dark emotional mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Characters: 9/10
Kelly Barnhill crafts memorable, nuanced characters, particularly the protagonist and her complex relationship with her mother and the titular crane husband. The secondary characters, while fewer in number, are distinct and additive to the story’s tension. The protagonist’s internal struggle is compelling, and her personality is well-defined. I felt that some minor characters could have been more fleshed out to add depth to the story’s world, but overall, the cast is strong and engaging.
Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10
The book excels in creating a vivid, immersive atmosphere. The setting—a blend of magical realism and dark fairy tale—is palpable and haunting. I could vividly picture the bleak, suffocating environment and feel the foreboding tension surrounding the crane. The scenes have an emotional energy that is both oppressive and captivating, adding to the story’s eerie tone.
Writing Style: 10/10
Barnhill’s prose is exquisite, lyrical, and evocative. It flows effortlessly, making even the darkest moments beautiful in their own way. The balance between dialogue and narration is masterful, and her unique style elevates the storytelling. This book serves as a testament to her literary prowess, and I would eagerly pick up more of her work, regardless of genre.
Plot: 9/10
The plot is both simple and profound, drawing heavily on folklore but imbuing it with modern, personal stakes. The pacing is effective, though I felt that some sections were a bit rushed compared to others. The narrative’s surprises are impactful and align well with the overarching themes. While some elements remain deliberately ambiguous, I found the overall plot satisfying and thought-provoking.
Intrigue: 9/10
From the opening pages, the story gripped me and refused to let go. The dark, suspenseful tone and enigmatic characters kept me turning pages. While there were moments where the story slowed, my intrigue remained high throughout, driven by a desire to understand the crane’s presence and the family dynamics.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The relationships, particularly between the protagonist, her mother, and the crane, are the emotional core of the story and are portrayed with depth and authenticity. The world-building, while minimalistic, is sufficient for the magical realism framework. I wanted more explicit explanations of the crane’s motives and the rules of the world, but the ambiguity serves the story’s fairy tale-like quality.
Enjoyment: 9/10
This is a deeply engrossing and emotionally resonant book. The combination of its haunting prose, rich atmosphere, and poignant themes ensured a consistently enjoyable experience for me. I found it unforgettable and thought-provoking from start to finish. 
Wyrd Sisters by Terry Pratchett

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adventurous funny lighthearted medium-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

4.25

Characters: 9/10
The characters in Wyrd Sisters are memorable and richly crafted. Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick are distinct, multi-dimensional, and utterly delightful to follow. Secondary characters, like the ghostly King Verence or the bumbling Duke and Duchess, are colorful and impactful without overshadowing the main trio. Pratchett’s ability to infuse humor and depth into even minor characters ensures they all feel integral to the story. Each personality is vivid and easy to describe, from Granny’s commanding presence to Magrat’s endearing awkwardness.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8/10
The setting, a mix of the Discworld’s magical absurdity and a Shakespearean-inspired kingdom, is immersive and vividly described. I could easily picture the misty moors, the dramatic theatrical scenes, and the eerie yet cozy atmosphere of the witches’ cottage. The world-building is detailed but never overwhelming, and the setting effectively mirrors the story’s tone and themes. Some of the satire landed better for me when I recognized the Shakespearean tropes it references.
Writing Style: 9/10
Terry Pratchett’s prose is sharp, witty, and effortlessly engaging. His blend of humor, satire, and clever wordplay makes Wyrd Sisters a joy to read. The dialogue sparkles with personality, and the narrative voice is distinctive and confident. The balance between humor and poignancy is masterful, making the book both funny and thought-provoking. I found the writing style so compelling that I immediately wanted to dive into more of Pratchett’s works.
Plot: 8/10
The plot is a brilliant mix of Shakespearean parody and original storytelling. The pacing is steady, with no noticeable drag, and the twists are satisfying without being over-complicated. Pratchett’s handling of tropes like mistaken identities, ghostly revenge, and theatrical intrigue feels fresh and exciting. While I didn’t find it the most groundbreaking plot in Discworld, it’s cleverly constructed and thoroughly entertaining.
Intrigue: 8/10
The book intrigued me and pulled me along with its humor, compelling characters, and engaging twists. The story’s evolution kept me invested, especially in how the witches would solve the kingdom’s chaos. It wasn’t an edge-of-my-seat thriller, but the charm and cleverness of the narrative made it hard to put down.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ motives were clear and aligned with their personalities. The magic and world-building, while fantastical, operated within consistent and understandable rules. The relationships, particularly between the witches, were wonderfully developed and added emotional depth to the story. I felt that Pratchett expertly wove these elements into a seamless narrative that felt cohesive and believable within the Discworld’s unique logic.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Wyrd Sisters from start to finish. Its humor, heart, and cleverness ensured that the experience was consistently delightful. Whether you’re a longtime Discworld fan or a newcomer, this book delivers a satisfying and entertaining journey. 
The Princess Will Save You by Sarah Henning

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adventurous medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

Characters: 4/10
While Amarande was a strong and determined protagonist, I felt that the characters overall lacked depth. Many secondary characters were indistinguishable or underdeveloped, making their presence feel more functional than additive to the story. Amarande’s relationship with Luca was touching, but I found the antagonists and supporting cast to be flat, lacking the nuance needed to make them truly memorable or compelling.
Atmosphere/Setting: 4.5/10
Although the setting had potential, I found it only partially immersive. The contrast between the desert and castle environments was interesting, but the lack of intricate detail made it hard for me to fully picture the world. The energy in key scenes didn’t always feel convincing or consistent, which lessened the impact of the story’s tension.
Writing Style: 4/10
The writing was straightforward and easy to follow, but it didn’t stand out as particularly unique or engaging for me. I found the prose functional but lacking in beauty or creativity, and the dialogue felt flat at times. While the flow was adequate for the story, it didn’t leave me eager to explore more of Sarah Henning’s work.
Plot: 4/10
The plot had an intriguing premise—a princess saving her beloved—but I felt the execution was underwhelming. The pacing was inconsistent, and certain developments felt either rushed or overly simplistic. While there were some twists, they didn’t feel especially surprising or impactful. The overall story left me feeling indifferent, as it lacked the depth or uniqueness to set it apart from other YA fantasies I’ve read.
Intrigue: 4/10
While the story had its moments, it didn’t hold my attention consistently. There were times when I had to convince myself to pick it back up, as the stakes and developments didn’t always feel compelling. The journey felt predictable, and I wasn’t consistently curious about what would happen next.
Logic/Relationships: 3.5/10
I struggled with the logic and coherence of the world and its characters. The relationships, particularly between Amarande and Luca, felt shallow and underexplored. The world-building was minimal, leaving me with more questions than answers about the political systems and rules of the setting. Some character motives and actions felt contrived, which pulled me out of the story.
Enjoyment: 4/10
While I appreciated the premise and moments of action, my enjoyment of the book was inconsistent. The lack of depth in characters, world-building, and plot made it hard for me to stay fully engaged. Though I appreciated the feminist twist, it wasn’t enough to elevate my overall experience.