A review by nouriareads
Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver

dark emotional funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I’m going to be a killjoy, sorry 🤷🏿‍♀️ but that’s not how you (should) do CW/TW. I get the intent behind the humour, but apart from the appropriate ones, the “funny” ones were weird. Using them for promotion is fine, but not where your readers are trying to take care of themselves.

It reads very quickly, I was glued to my e-reader!! Sloane and Rowan are charming and have chemistry, their banter was so good both IRL and through text. Rowan is like that guy who says corny things, but you can’t help but swoon a little. Even if the dynamic and kinks aren’t your cup of tea, there’s consent, a safe word and checking in so they’re exploring their relationship in a healthy way.

I’m not a fan of insta-lust, the time jumps made it seem like their friendship developed too quickly, and the romance even faster, so it felt like insta-love too. Before developing feelings for each other, I wanted them to be friends, so I wasn’t satisfied with the trope’s execution. Their character development was superficial and the author was too heavy-handed in setting up the sequels. Let me enjoy this couple first, then we’ll see.

It’s the kind of book you turn your brain off to read, it worked for the romance but my traitorous brain couldn’t help but ask SO many questions about the 🔪 logistics, but that’s a me problem. Their rationale for hunting serial killers and their victim’s psychology were flimsy. Also, why only 🔪 men?

It was still an enjoyable read: no plot just vibes with an original premise, but not as intense as the TW and synopsis make it seem. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser and aren’t squeamish this could work!!
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