caradel0vin

I would say that reading this book twice does it justice. The author does state it is her first novel, (apologizes if you don’t use she/her pronouns) and you can tell at the start. It feels directionless and a little like “why is Lumielle acting this way” but, after reading up to the explanation chapter where the author explains her reasoning as to why she made the plot the way it is and owning up to her mistakes, I honestly became a bigger fan. I can see a lot of thought goes into the characters and despite the somewhat sloppy start, it’s really good. The writing makes it worthwhile. So let me start diseccting: 1. Lumielle. I agree at first I didn’t understand why she acted the way she did. Why did she put herself through needles pain because of Countess Fleur? But, honestly, seeing her characterization it makes sense to some extent. Like, she’s always been someone who lets people use her and she feels horribly guilty. It being part of her guilt and her inability to view herself as anything but a Kingmaker makes sense. Also, I currently do love the growth she is going for. I like that she has accepted that she doesn’t need to play the white lotus role. Its satisfying to see her be a villain but also understand that Aristele and people around her are important. 2. Aristele. Idk why everyone dislikes him. He’s probably one of my favorites. He’s loyal and a good character, seeing him from the past perspective and seeing what he is right now, it’s a good juxtaposition. I also would be honest if Lumielle kept me in the dark so I’m on his side. There are a lot of loose ends and some characters that vanish but I mean that is to be expected like the whole magic plotline sorta left as did Sebastian. I don’t know if I like Asterias since he also left, but I am excited to see him come back sometime in the future. I do reccomend the book and to continue reading it despite the first couple of chapters. It develops well.

Honestly, other than the lack of consistent posting the book is good. Its DARK. Not for the faint of heart. So maybe the author should put TW. Also, the blurb is really light hearted. I get why Carl is acting the way he does but sometimes, it gets redundant. Like he’s a little frustrating as a ML. Emotionally constipated. Angry. You know the deal. But I can see that he is trying to do better and fix himself so that he doesn’t scare Irene. Irene….God, I feel honestly so bad for her. I know a lot of people might disagree and think she’s stupid BUT she had her own eye gouged out and her achilles tendon snapped. I’m also pretty sure there is alludings to sexual assault. Irene is a victim! I hope everyone can see it that way. The story is a bit of a slow burn. 50 chapters in and there hasn’t really been a kiss or romance but I think thats for the best. I like the pace of the romance and how different characters view/interact. Also, if you wanted to know Carl the ML is not a sis con thankfully LOL