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A review by jpanslabyrinthofbooks
The Thorns Remain by J.J.A. Harwood
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
After organizing a celebration with friends, Moira Jean wakes the next morning with a hangover and strange feelings from the hallucinations that occurred throughout the night; men with antlers through their eyes, dancers enthralled with her companions, and strange environments in the dark. But once she realises that all of her friends are no longer in town, and their families believe they have moved away or eloped, Moira Jean confronts the Fae and realises the visions were far more real that she originally perceived.
The mystery and intrigue of the novel was tempting enough to keep reading page after page, following Moira as she discovers the truth. The book was reminiscent to the story of Pans Labyrinth, with offerings and bargains to save Moira Jean's loved ones. Rather than a focus of world building, the narrative focused on the strength and resolve building in Moira's character and the riddle-like tasks she must procure for the enigmatic and beautiful Dreamer Fae.
Although I did enjoy the narrative and characters in the book, some of the chapters seemed extensive and it aggravated me every time Moira was referred too with both names - a small niggling situation, but irritating.
The mystery and intrigue of the novel was tempting enough to keep reading page after page, following Moira as she discovers the truth. The book was reminiscent to the story of Pans Labyrinth, with offerings and bargains to save Moira Jean's loved ones. Rather than a focus of world building, the narrative focused on the strength and resolve building in Moira's character and the riddle-like tasks she must procure for the enigmatic and beautiful Dreamer Fae.
Although I did enjoy the narrative and characters in the book, some of the chapters seemed extensive and it aggravated me every time Moira was referred too with both names - a small niggling situation, but irritating.