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betweentheshelves's review against another edition
emotional
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? Yes
4.0
Lately, vampire stories in the YA realm have been a bit hit or miss for me, but I enjoyed the way Sterling imagined vampires in this one! The concept of the Death Oracle made for some interestinig twists to the way we typically image vampires. This is the second book where they focus on the fact that teenagers shouldn't be turned into vampires because their brains aren't fully developed, and I think Claire does a good job showing why. This book takes it further than the previous one, and I think it makes it more believable.
Both Elise and Claire have distinct voices throughout the book, and the way their relationship evolved felt realistic. I also appreciated the fact that Elise didn't realize she was queer until later in the novel, and the conversations about identity were on point. I love rep like this because queer identities aren't clear cut for everyone, and seeing characters who are also working to figure it out speaks volumes for teens who are also trying to figure it out.
There were a few things throughout the book regarding world building that could have been fleshed out a little more, but all in all, this is definitely an entertaining, enjoyable read!
Both Elise and Claire have distinct voices throughout the book, and the way their relationship evolved felt realistic. I also appreciated the fact that Elise didn't realize she was queer until later in the novel, and the conversations about identity were on point. I love rep like this because queer identities aren't clear cut for everyone, and seeing characters who are also working to figure it out speaks volumes for teens who are also trying to figure it out.
There were a few things throughout the book regarding world building that could have been fleshed out a little more, but all in all, this is definitely an entertaining, enjoyable read!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Death, and Murder
Moderate: Mental illness, Pedophilia, and Violence
Minor: Cursing, Drug use, and Homophobia
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