A review by jonwesleyhuff
The Book That Wouldn't Burn by Mark Lawrence

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

3.75

I really liked a lot of things about this book. The way the story sort of folds in on itself into a little pretzel is very well executed. The characters are well drawn, and I enjoy how the story brought the disparate storylines together. The only real complaint I had, and it is relatively minor in the grand scheme of things but did affect my overall feelings toward the book, was the the minor character of Mr. Tubberly. He's only mentioned a few times. He's not an antagonist, really, just a minor annoyance for a main character. But the book makes him overweight. And says he likes to eat a lot. Oh, and they call him Tubby. I don't know why we're in 2024 and still just fine with this. It wasn't needed. It barely affects anything. But, like, come on. Also, I find it annoying when a writer names a character a very conspicuous name just to make fun of that name.  It all feels a little lazy in a book that demonstrates a lot of cleverness and skill. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings