A review by forsakenfates
Darkly Beating Heart, by Lindsay Smith
3.0
This is a super hard book to review. On the one hand it has this amazing premise and idea behind it. It also is written by an author that I love reading from. Lindsay Smith always has these unique worlds and locations for her books. However, this book fell completely short of my expectations. I spent the first 40% or so the book completely annoyed with the protagonist and annoyed with the "fake" world I felt like Smith was sharing with us. I wanted to immerse myself in the culture and the places Reiko was visiting.
Once Reiko really began her story in Miyu's life I became much more invested in the story. But then in the last 20 pages of the book we went full speed to a conclusion that was rushed and left me unsatisfied at the end. I had such high expectations for this book that I think really dampened my enjoyment. While this book has it's flaws, the premise should be enough for you to at least enjoy the story. I just wish it had been longer and had a better immersion into the culture.
One other thing I will say, is Reiko is severely depressed throughout this story and some of her thoughts and words could could be triggering to some people.
Once Reiko really began her story in Miyu's life I became much more invested in the story. But then in the last 20 pages of the book we went full speed to a conclusion that was rushed and left me unsatisfied at the end. I had such high expectations for this book that I think really dampened my enjoyment. While this book has it's flaws, the premise should be enough for you to at least enjoy the story. I just wish it had been longer and had a better immersion into the culture.
One other thing I will say, is Reiko is severely depressed throughout this story and some of her thoughts and words could could be triggering to some people.