Reviews

A Blackness Absolute by Caitlin Marceau

Only show reviews with written explanations

floralvarezr's review against another edition

dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.75

A Darkness Absolute: I feel like calling this story cute, like a child trying to be fearsome. I'm not trying to be mean, it was cute, I had an ok time reading it. I would have loved it if it had been executed better, if the vibes had been more atmospheric and menacing. Maybe it needed to be a little longer. I didn't like the narration style either, too much "she did this" and "she thought that", I think it would have benefitted from some more passive voice sentences.
Sarah: the narration's still not my cup of tea but it's bearable. The family dynamics were interesting if a little cliché. The ending was surprising, it seemed out of character, or maybe we hadn't spent enough time with Sarah to understand her feelings and what she is capable of.
The Broomway: ok this one was creepier, you could feel the desperation to get out of the mud. The flashbacks were used well and the story was despicable. Cool one.
In Obeisance Park: another one that feels like horror written for children. And it's not only that the protagonist is a child, it's the tone.
Gordon: oh this was great! The tension and the build up and the bone chilling fear. Penny was a very interesting protagonist, never doubting her own sanity. I really liked it.
The Blue: a nice, short tale of sirens.
Barmbrack: I think I don't get it, is it supposed to have a moraleja? Or am I mistaking this for a children's book again?
Doreann: I kinda liked this one, although I hope it had been longer, to better develop the characters and specially the rituals.