
This book took everything I thought I knew about fantasy and flipped it on it's head. I wasn't even reading by the middle of it, I was just there. And by the end I felt like I was connected to the characters in the way they're connected to each other. I don't have words for this. I was formulating a review towards the end as I read, but then the book ended and I sobbed and lost my words. I am so excited for the sequel, and so thankful for what this book has opened me up for.
Everybody needs to read this. It's as simple as that.
There were times I would find myself talking to Starr in my head, whether I was agreeing with her or trying to help her. This book is so raw that you're 100% there with the characters, and I think it's the reality check that a lot of people need.
I thought I was going to give this three stars but had to give it four from the sheer fact that I could not put this book down at all.
I think it took me longer to warm to the narrator than intended, but that's just a personal thing. I spent a lot of the book questioning whether I was actually enjoying the experience or not but by the second half I was so invested and my perception of the whole thing was totally flipped.
I love these characters very much, and I love the heartache they gave me. It's such a raw story and true to real life and I think that's where it hit me and so many other people the most.
There is so much I want to say about this but I don't think I can form a coherent review because I'm so overwhelmed with love for this. I went in expecting something totally different than I got. Halfway through I was thinking that in my review I would write about how it had made me laugh and cry, but by the end of it I was sobbing uncontrollably. The specifics of the topic it dealt with were something I related to heavily and something I didn't realise other people experienced, so to read this being portrayed so well totally floored me. I've already experienced my story so I wouldn't say this book has changed how I will react to these situations, but it's definitely changed how I feel about myself having those reactions. I strongly believe no other piece of media will ever portray how I felt when I was told my mother was dying as this book did, and for that I'm insanely grateful.
will probably return to it, but not ideal after the christmas magic. too slow paced for what i'm looking for right now.