Reviews

Having read Me Before You, I was prepared for another book that would leave me in a sobbing heap, so this was a pleasant surprise. There were some things I didn't love, like the character presented as the better guy -- he was sweet and caring but also totally willing to give up on love to appease his religious community. Sven was a much better partner, though of course not for Alice. The librarians were great, different but all strong women, and I was rooting for all of them by the end.

defenders_iris's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful medium-paced

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

4.0

This was a really cute story! I liked Alice's development throughout the book, from an uncomfortable proper English lady to an eager helper to someone who could truly stand on her own two feet in a world against her. The minor characters were all great too, and the subplots all wove together to create a believable world where everyone is impacted by everyone else's decisions. (Also, personal preference: As someone who doesn't like graphic descriptions but doesn't mind the presence of sex, I really appreciate how all the bedroom scenes were handled, seeing as how sex ed is a core part of the story!)

I didn't quite like how they handled Margery's growth through the story. It makes sense, and is true to her character, but it personally would not be how I would have written her. Also, the issue with the union busting felt like it was going to be a significantly bigger deal than simply just more ammo for the villain to use to claim the librarians are bringing rot and ruination to Kentucky.

The ending really uh... ruins it though. Wow. That was probably the most contrived way to put a bow on the Bennett and Fred situation, I am genuinely impressed. Had to read it aloud to someone to get across just how insane that was.

Content Warnings

jls6283's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful informative inspiring medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

rfinney's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful inspiring mysterious fast-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

4.0

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