Reviews with content warning for Body horror - Надвигается беда

I think the best way to explain how I feel about this novel is that I wish it was written by someone else. I really liked the premise and overall atmosphere of the novel, considering that it had an autumnal setting with the right amount of eerie and unsettling. Unfortunately, I think Bradbury’s delivery of the story fell short, and I would say his writing style is somewhat to blame. There were some instances when his distinct lyricism worked in his favor, but in most other cases, I found it strange and cumbersome, which made it difficult for me to fully immerse myself into the story. Regarding plot and characters, it was hard for me to get a lot out of either because of Bradbury’s writing style, or I felt that they lacked substance, particularly the characters. Another issue I had with the novel was the language, which I found really dated. To be fair to Bradbury, this isn’t his fault— It’s just how things go as language about certain things and ideas change over time.

I really wanted to like this novel, but it didn’t work for me. I also think it’s quite possible that I’m just not a fan of Bradbury’s writings, despite being interested in the themes and ideas he has. (This is also likely why I started this review with the wish that someone else had written this novel.)

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rabidteddybear's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

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lynxpardinus's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious reflective tense

4.25

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ishouldreadthat's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Not my favourite of Ray Bradbury's book, but a thumping good read regardless. Good, atmospheric horror and the world's sketchiest carnival. I listened to the audiobook and would recommend it!

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