Scan barcode
emilyhawk's review
adventurous
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
The mystery that unfolded throughout this book was downright gripping. It was eerie, and the author did an excellent job of revealing information in little drips and scraps to maintain suspense. The setting in Amsterdam added to this vibe and was described really well. I was hooked, and I was wholly committed to seeing this book through.
Yet, the characterization was a major flaw for me here - despite being committed to the story, I didn't find any of the characters particularly likable or interesting. Amy, our main narrator, felt underdeveloped and her personality quirks seemed incongruent. Sylvie, our main emotional interest, was an enigma and her primary romantic interest -- which undergirded the whole plot -- was a bit unsettling and inappropriate for me. Ma, the third narrator, was even less developed and only appeared in brief flashes of anguish which didn't really add to the story -- I was eager to get back to Amy and Sylvie's accounts whenever Ma's chapter came into play. So while I enjoyed the ride of the narrative as a whole, I was left a bit underwhelmed by the many figures who took me on that ride.
Yet, the characterization was a major flaw for me here - despite being committed to the story, I didn't find any of the characters particularly likable or interesting. Amy, our main narrator, felt underdeveloped and her personality quirks seemed incongruent. Sylvie, our main emotional interest, was an enigma and her primary romantic interest -- which undergirded the whole plot -- was a bit unsettling and inappropriate for me. Ma, the third narrator, was even less developed and only appeared in brief flashes of anguish which didn't really add to the story -- I was eager to get back to Amy and Sylvie's accounts whenever Ma's chapter came into play. So while I enjoyed the ride of the narrative as a whole, I was left a bit underwhelmed by the many figures who took me on that ride.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Suicidal thoughts, and Suicide
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Domestic abuse, and Incest
Minor: Homophobia
More...