A review by genny
The King of Crows by Libba Bray
adventurous
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
At this point, I'm so invested in the cast that I couldn't give a lower rating, even though this was a bit of a letdown as the series finale. Loved the character moments - I can't believe I became attached to Bill Johnson and T. S. Woodhouse, of all people! Evie dealing with her grief over , Theta accepting her power and learning to control it, etc. All great. However, the plot was much too long and drawn-out, with the diviners separated and trying to survive on the road for a large chunk of the story...then when they finally meet, they spend ages dawdling on a farm. Although I saw that twist about coming from a mile away, the reveal was done well. I was constantly yelling (internally) at Libba Bray not to kill off any more characters. 💀
Still, Bray's writing was as beautiful as always. My goodness, the imagery she can conjure. Even the author's note was a treat to listen to (I got the audiobook). I thought the ending was fitting, with its atmosphere of tentative relief and happiness but still with a hint of danger brewing on the horizon. All in all, I adore this series and I marvel at the way Bray was able to weave a tale with such a large cast that dealt with so many themes.
Spoiler
MabelSpoiler
Sarah BethStill, Bray's writing was as beautiful as always. My goodness, the imagery she can conjure. Even the author's note was a treat to listen to (I got the audiobook). I thought the ending was fitting, with its atmosphere of tentative relief and happiness but still with a hint of danger brewing on the horizon. All in all, I adore this series and I marvel at the way Bray was able to weave a tale with such a large cast that dealt with so many themes.
Graphic: Animal death, Blood, Child death, Death, Gore, Grief, Gun violence, Murder, and Violence
Moderate: Ableism and Racism