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spamel's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
savanahburden's review against another edition
4.0
This was a really good book. I'm really mad I started it without realizing it wasn't the first book and that it was a series, but I still loved it.
shari_reads's review against another edition
3.0
This series is getting better and better-and the first novel was already a must-read. I think the level of sophistication is getting above some of my students (grades 5&6), but I still encourage them to read this series. The plot twists are amazing, and each of the three principal characters is growing in his or her abilities. I particularly enjoyed learning Sally’s backstory, as she continues to become a strong female protagonist. Tom, too, is gaining confidence as he proves that he’s not just Christopher’s strong, less-than-intelligent, good natured ox of a friend. I can’t wait for the next installment to take me back in time to the Apothecary’s world.
sunset1213's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
skundrik87's review against another edition
4.0
Not as good as the second, but an interesting blend of adventure and history. Love this author.
vanislandcircus's review against another edition
5.0
This series just keeps getting better and better! I could not put this one down, from start to finish the adventure continued with action, history, and lessons learned.
r1dh4's review against another edition
3.0
Book CW: Violence, Blood/Gore, Attempted Murder
I honestly think I would have enjoyed this book more if I were younger. The dialogue between the characters is pretty funny, and the information about different ciphers/apothecary practices is really interesting. However, the lack of character development and overall pacing of the book didn't do it for me. The Assassin's Curse is just so long, and some parts were really slow. I will say that I felt the climax and resolution were pretty good, but some of the scenes may have been a bit too brutal considering that this is more of a middle-grade read.
Overall, though, I would still recommend this book to a middle-grade audience (with a warning on some bloody/violent images), but I don't think I'll be continuing the series anymore.
I honestly think I would have enjoyed this book more if I were younger. The dialogue between the characters is pretty funny, and the information about different ciphers/apothecary practices is really interesting. However, the lack of character development and overall pacing of the book didn't do it for me. The Assassin's Curse is just so long, and some parts were really slow. I will say that I felt the climax and resolution were pretty good, but some of the scenes may have been a bit too brutal considering that this is more of a middle-grade read.
Overall, though, I would still recommend this book to a middle-grade audience (with a warning on some bloody/violent images), but I don't think I'll be continuing the series anymore.