A review by barnesm31
The Scapegracers by H.A. Clarke
emotional
funny
mysterious
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was such a satisfying beginning of a trilogy, I was suprised to learn this was a debut novel it is so great.
Sideways (because as she herself says she is anything but straight) this dialog highlights the character of Sideways a teenage witch and lesbian who always saw herself on the outer until Daisy, Jing, and Yates most popular girls in school offer her $40 for a little magic at their Halloween party that's result aren't only memorably spooky but to Sideways’ utter bewilderment, the triumvirate fiercely claims her, and she’s now a member of the most badass girl clique. Daisy, Jing, and Yates are each brilliant creations worthy of their own tales and not another mean girl clique. Readers will root for, this cunning, crass, and fiercely caring coven.
This is a story of the fierce intensity of young adult friendships, the swirl of emotions which is so aptly captured with magic. I also really enjoyed how the story skirts around traditional structures, opting instead for a distinctly queer ebb and flow; rather than rising to a single climax, the plot moves in waves, each bigger but no less important or enjoyable than the last.
Brilliant story, brilliant characters and interesting mysteries, the magic shop, the hidden antagonist/woman of desire, a spell book/freed devil all driving forward to the next book which I can't wait to read in the trilogy.
Sideways (because as she herself says she is anything but straight) this dialog highlights the character of Sideways a teenage witch and lesbian who always saw herself on the outer until Daisy, Jing, and Yates most popular girls in school offer her $40 for a little magic at their Halloween party that's result aren't only memorably spooky but to Sideways’ utter bewilderment, the triumvirate fiercely claims her, and she’s now a member of the most badass girl clique. Daisy, Jing, and Yates are each brilliant creations worthy of their own tales and not another mean girl clique. Readers will root for, this cunning, crass, and fiercely caring coven.
This is a story of the fierce intensity of young adult friendships, the swirl of emotions which is so aptly captured with magic. I also really enjoyed how the story skirts around traditional structures, opting instead for a distinctly queer ebb and flow; rather than rising to a single climax, the plot moves in waves, each bigger but no less important or enjoyable than the last.
Brilliant story, brilliant characters and interesting mysteries, the magic shop, the hidden antagonist/woman of desire, a spell book/freed devil all driving forward to the next book which I can't wait to read in the trilogy.