Reviews

Defy or Defend, by Gail Carriger

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bookwormerica's review

5.0

As a long time lover of all things books...I've read my fair share! About 200 a year. It takes a bit to be memorable to me. Every book Gail Carriger writes is an automatic buy/ read for me. Its guaranteed to be well written with explicit care and talent. Funny, sweet, witty, exceptional, original and accepting characters This book specifically details what happens to Dimity after the Finishing School series ( by Gail Carriger of course) ends. Dimity is everything lovely, sparkly and caring. You follow dimity aka the honey bee and her safeguard Sir Crispin to fix and vampire hive in decline. They are the hives last hope...the hive just doesnt know it. There are NUMEROUS laugh out loud moments and lines in this book! Oh I cackled so much I spilled my tea. This book is at its heart a romantic adventure as well. Very LGBTQ friendly. As with all works by this author except nothing gritty and good ending. 10/10 recommend Also check out the Parasol Protectorate to see where the world began and the Finishing School series for a young adult read!

rebeccadupont's review

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5.0

Delightful book. The romance was sweet, both parties capable and interesting. I loved the vampire plot and the fixing through spreading joy. The representation was lovely and showing Dimity get what she wanted was best of all.

tmkuta's review

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5.0

This book is a goddamn delight and exactly what I needed in this time of COVID-19 hell. So good I read it twice, because it made me happy. Fluffy, witty, and funny, Defy or Defend transported to Nottingham for a delightful romp around a moody vampire hive with Dimity and Cris. There are a few old faces for those familiar with the Parasolverse, but nothing non-series readers wouldn't understand. There are plenty of new characters, too, which worm their way into your hearts. I already have a new favorite. :)

If you're new to Gail Carriger's work but are intimidated by the expansive world and multiple series, this is a great novella to dip your toes into the world building, writing style, and humor type to see if Carriger's books are right for you!

valokajo's review

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4.5

Just the kind of humour I needed right now. I really like the combination of supernatural and historical elements with the light-hearted narrative that doesn't take itself seriously

majabwds's review

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3.0

Totally ridiculous and fun. But, I liked the first one better.

anywiebs's review against another edition

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5.0

This was such a fun quick read with so many interesting ideas and good handling of insecurities and power dynamics in relationships.
Also, even though is the second companion novel to the Finishing School series this can be read as stand alone without spoiling anything in the series or any other series of hers.