Scan barcode
browneyesblue84's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The concept of having a chance of survival by living within the confines of a climate controlled energy efficient building is intriguing at first. Once the truth is revealed that utopia becomes frightening and unnerving. Jaqueline’s true plan for this community along with the other communities constructed in different parts of the world is sinister. Yet, I cannot be surprised that a woman like her would want to play God in some shape or form. Ava’s story shifts in a woman that becomes organic and relatable despite the circumstance.
My only issue with the story is the concept of a woman not wanting to have a child only to have one and she suddenly changes. She becomes a mom which plays into the notion of women not knowing what they want. However, I think the inclusion of that concept was needed as well. Along with the idea of a community that is not structured around patriarchy. A generation of people born free of that concept as actually pretty cool to read about.
I am rating the book five out of five. The idea of the story starting at the beginning of the end of the world is something I’ve never experienced before. I’m looking forward to reading the next story that author Gabrielle Korn creates in the near future.
Moderate: Classism
Minor: Drug use
wornpagesandendlesscoffey's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Graphic: Bullying, Racism, Slavery, Suicide, Death of parent, Misogyny, Racial slurs, Sexism, Ableism, Classism, Confinement, Cultural appropriation, Pregnancy, Rape, Transphobia, Addiction, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Self harm, Drug use, Gaslighting, Medical trauma, Toxic relationship, Drug abuse, Colonisation, Emotional abuse, Grief, and Death
ash_poison's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Several issues stood out to me. The initial concepts introduced in the beginning weren't consistently developed throughout the story. Some monologues were overly lengthy and felt unnecessary. The book featured an abundance of different points of view (POVs), including four women highlighted in the synopsis and an additional three introduced later on. This accumulation of seven distinct POVs lacked clear labeling, making it confusing to follow. Moreover, the portrayal of perspectives from transgender and black women felt underdeveloped, particularly concerning the challenges they might face, such as the amplified backlash a black woman might encounter compared to a white woman in a position of power. Proper research into these experiences, particularly within corporate America, would have enhanced authenticity. Additionally, certain conflicts were resolved too hastily.
Despite these criticisms, I found several intriguing aspects. The book effectively weaved in satirical elements, providing a thought-provoking exploration of feminism and the essence of womanhood. As someone who identifies as a feminist, I found my understanding evolving while reading, thanks to the author's impactful influence. The author possesses a remarkable command of language, crafting immersive settings and evoking genuine emotions from the characters. Even the perspectives of the antagonists were engrossing, prompting me to reflect on my own notions of feminism.
Graphic: Racism, Misogyny, Classism, Transphobia, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Medical content, Drug abuse, Medical trauma, Body horror, Drug use, and Death
Minor: Cancer and Child abuse
nukie19's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Thanks to the publisher for providing an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
Graphic: Lesbophobia, Transphobia, Grief, Pandemic/Epidemic, Suicide, Confinement, and Violence
Moderate: Abandonment, Death, Death of parent, and Emotional abuse
Minor: Alcohol, Medical content, Pregnancy, and Drug use