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kearbetweenchapters's reviews
429 reviews
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
A Corpse for Christmas by Rena Leith
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
This was a fun little Christmas caper, and much more my speed this year, as I wasn’t in the mood for the typical Christmas romance. I picked up right off the bat that it was part of a series I hadn’t read - that usually annoys me, but it was a pretty contained story, so it didn’t.
The writing made for a quick, easy read, and though I guessed the “bad guy”, I didn’t mind! I loved Doris… she was a fun character, and made me wonder what other magical things exist in this universe. Plus I love stories with animal companions involved!
While the storyline and mystery themselves were fun, I did feel like there were a few too many characters running around. I also thought there were some odd tangents (like on how to cook vegetables).
Then, too, as much as I wasn’t looking for a romance, per se, the lack of romance between the romantic leads in this was a bit disappointing. He was worried and anxious all the time, and I couldn’t figure out if they were actually together… and then the end answered that, but I wished there’d been more actual chemistry.
I’d rate this a solid 3.5 stars - rounding up to 4 for review purposes, as I’m giving the benefit of doubt that part of my confusion with the romance was coming in mid-series. I’ll likely pick up the series to see what I missed in earlier adventures!
The writing made for a quick, easy read, and though I guessed the “bad guy”, I didn’t mind! I loved Doris… she was a fun character, and made me wonder what other magical things exist in this universe. Plus I love stories with animal companions involved!
While the storyline and mystery themselves were fun, I did feel like there were a few too many characters running around. I also thought there were some odd tangents (like on how to cook vegetables).
Then, too, as much as I wasn’t looking for a romance, per se, the lack of romance between the romantic leads in this was a bit disappointing. He was worried and anxious all the time, and I couldn’t figure out if they were actually together… and then the end answered that, but I wished there’d been more actual chemistry.
I’d rate this a solid 3.5 stars - rounding up to 4 for review purposes, as I’m giving the benefit of doubt that part of my confusion with the romance was coming in mid-series. I’ll likely pick up the series to see what I missed in earlier adventures!
Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs
adventurous
mysterious
medium-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? It's complicated
4.25
Small Favors by Erin A. Craig
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
I really really love Erin Craig’s writing style. This book put you in the small town of Amity Falls - and I felt the claustrophobia and the impending doom from the very beginning. There’s so much steeped in mystery I almost feel like saying anything is a spoiler… but I’ll persevere.
I really liked Ellerie. She tries hard - and the author allows repercussions for her trying so hard. I think Whitaker was my favorite character - but I can’t say more than that.
Dolls are creepy. Imaginary friends are creepy. Somehow, this book made bells and pinafores creepy. If you’re looking for a solidly creepy read, this book is your jam.
The only real reason this got knocked down was because Ellerie’s siblings all irritated me. Sadie was whiny, Merry had no personality until 65% in, and Sam was a real dick for no good reason. Plus the townspeople were sometimes hard to keep track of, but I actually felt like that served the cluttered town vibe. Regardless, I enjoyed this creepytastic spin on a fairy tale so much, I couldn’t even drop a full point… so 4.25 it is.
I’ve now read both of Craig’s books, was mesmerized by her ability to give me chills, and enjoyed myself both times. She’s officially a must buy author for me!
I really liked Ellerie. She tries hard - and the author allows repercussions for her trying so hard. I think Whitaker was my favorite character - but I can’t say more than that.
Dolls are creepy. Imaginary friends are creepy. Somehow, this book made bells and pinafores creepy. If you’re looking for a solidly creepy read, this book is your jam.
The only real reason this got knocked down was because Ellerie’s siblings all irritated me. Sadie was whiny, Merry had no personality until 65% in, and Sam was a real dick for no good reason. Plus the townspeople were sometimes hard to keep track of, but I actually felt like that served the cluttered town vibe. Regardless, I enjoyed this creepytastic spin on a fairy tale so much, I couldn’t even drop a full point… so 4.25 it is.
I’ve now read both of Craig’s books, was mesmerized by her ability to give me chills, and enjoyed myself both times. She’s officially a must buy author for me!