The design and UX isn't done, Rob and Abbie, okkurrrr! đ
lcjanne's review against another edition
3.0
2.75âď¸ I took some time before sharing my thoughts on this book. While I understand that every author has their unique style, and it's not always fair to compare books, the reality is that the fantasy genre is saturated with numerous works. Unfortunately, this one didn't resonate with me. I couldn't shake the feeling that I was reading the same plot as other well-known fantasy series. Despite some nuanced details, the overall storyline felt entirely borrowed.
The narrative between the main characters followed a highly predictable trajectory, incorporating the overused love triangle trope that personally doesn't appeal to me. Although the fantasy elements had the potential to elevate the story, the conflict between the wealthy, powered individuals and the less privileged powered people felt like a recycled aspect. A fresh approach to this dynamic could have added depth and interest.
On several fronts, the book felt lacking â from character development and storyline to love interests, magic systems, and historical elements. Regrettably, I don't think I'll be picking up the next book; it's a pass for me. :(
The narrative between the main characters followed a highly predictable trajectory, incorporating the overused love triangle trope that personally doesn't appeal to me. Although the fantasy elements had the potential to elevate the story, the conflict between the wealthy, powered individuals and the less privileged powered people felt like a recycled aspect. A fresh approach to this dynamic could have added depth and interest.
On several fronts, the book felt lacking â from character development and storyline to love interests, magic systems, and historical elements. Regrettably, I don't think I'll be picking up the next book; it's a pass for me. :(
vanessaaain's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
funny
tense
medium-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
3.25
nedwards03's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
lighthearted
tense
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
Great book. I think the only reason it wasnât a 5 stars is because I was distracted while finishing it.Â
remember_me19's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
staceyguut's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Favorite book of 2023
felarof's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
inspiring
tense
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
4.0
kiiiaarraa_'s review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I HAVE SO MANY MIXED FEELINGS OMFG.
Up till now I LOVE that the MC doesn't have powers. I love that even tho she's an 'Ordinary', she's still a badass. I also LOVE Malakai. My heart was really pining for him and everything that he had to go through just to fulfill a duty that was forced upon him. I also enjoyed the way we're left at the end of this book â its kinda very interesting.Â
My mixed feelings come in for a few reasons. Although the idea of the MC being powerless is so unique, a lot of the story was anything but. I saw A LOT of similarities from the Red Queen series. There were a lot of scenes that were basic asf and it really killed me! There was so much potential yet it fell flat.
Another thing is the cringy dialogue used. I almost died when Kai said he wants to call her 'mine' and unfortunately i mean that in a bad way. Also the nicknames were overused in the book to the point when I was just not feeling it and that says much considering my favourite nickname is Darling (thanks to Rhysand). Lastly, it was very predictable! Only one thing took me by surprise and that was who was the person they had to kill to win the trials. Know that brought me TRAUMA.
Up till now I LOVE that the MC doesn't have powers. I love that even tho she's an 'Ordinary', she's still a badass. I also LOVE Malakai. My heart was really pining for him and everything that he had to go through just to fulfill a duty that was forced upon him. I also enjoyed the way we're left at the end of this book â its kinda very interesting.Â
My mixed feelings come in for a few reasons. Although the idea of the MC being powerless is so unique, a lot of the story was anything but. I saw A LOT of similarities from the Red Queen series. There were a lot of scenes that were basic asf and it really killed me! There was so much potential yet it fell flat.
Another thing is the cringy dialogue used. I almost died when Kai said he wants to call her 'mine' and unfortunately i mean that in a bad way. Also the nicknames were overused in the book to the point when I was just not feeling it and that says much considering my favourite nickname is Darling (thanks to Rhysand). Lastly, it was very predictable! Only one thing took me by surprise and that was who was the person they had to kill to win the trials. Know that brought me TRAUMA.