sayitcharlie's review against another edition
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
"Sometimes Prince Charming is everything you need when you didn't know you needed it."
I went into this with expectations because it has two of my fave tropes and yet finished it with disappointment. Actually, I was already disappointed halfway through it but decided to finish it just so I can witness when shit hits the fan.
Vera growing up in a very patriarchal and traditional family would have been a good setup for showing off her own skills. She is not a damsel-in-distress kind of female lead but I don't understand why her talent and smarts are not given a spotlight. Just a few mentions, here and there, and that's it. I hated that it's always mentioned by Nico instead of letting us witness her wow everyone.
Vera growing up in a very patriarchal and traditional family would have been a good setup for showing off her own skills. She is not a damsel-in-distress kind of female lead but I don't understand why her talent and smarts are not given a spotlight. Just a few mentions, here and there, and that's it. I hated that it's always mentioned by Nico instead of letting us witness her wow everyone.
"It had been the simple and sweet gestures that he did because he knew I liked them."
This part was mentioned twice, but again, it was only mentioned by Vera and not seen by readers. There seems to be a problem with "showing not telling". Maybe this is why I can't find any connection to any of the characters.
The good parts I liked about this book were when they were still bantering and pissed with each other, and the part where they had a shouting match after Vera knew the truth. Good chemistry on those parts but I'm confused because that said chemistry seems to disappear on parts where they were supposed to be together. I don't know if it's overshadowed by Nico's revenge plan, especially in his POV, but it's definitely taking away the romance for me. I don't mind the push-and-pull since he has his own agenda but maybe the way it was written? The steamy scenes are steamy but only the balcony scene was memorable.
Also, can I talk about the much-needed groveling that didn't really happen? What he did warrants a big ass groveling and I didn't see that. More like he explained and presented some facts, told her that falling in love with her wasn't part of the plan, then she swooned back into his arms.
My excitement for this series definitely died down and I don't think I will be checking out the rest of the books.
The good parts I liked about this book were when they were still bantering and pissed with each other, and the part where they had a shouting match after Vera knew the truth. Good chemistry on those parts but I'm confused because that said chemistry seems to disappear on parts where they were supposed to be together. I don't know if it's overshadowed by Nico's revenge plan, especially in his POV, but it's definitely taking away the romance for me. I don't mind the push-and-pull since he has his own agenda but maybe the way it was written? The steamy scenes are steamy but only the balcony scene was memorable.
Also, can I talk about the much-needed groveling that didn't really happen? What he did warrants a big ass groveling and I didn't see that. More like he explained and presented some facts, told her that falling in love with her wasn't part of the plan, then she swooned back into his arms.
My excitement for this series definitely died down and I don't think I will be checking out the rest of the books.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexism, Physical abuse, and Sexual harassment
More...