A review by omqchristi
Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

hopeful slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

» QUICK OVERVIEW «
Stars: ★★★★★
Plot: ★★★★☆
Readability: ★★★★★
Characters: ★★★★★
Writing: ★★★★☆
Recommend: ✓

» PLOT «
Lazlo Strange is a dreamer. In fact, he's always been. Even as a child, he was obsessed with the city of Weep. Of course, it wasn't always called "Weep." It had a proper name, but one day, the memory of it was wiped away from his and other's minds, as well as from books. Now after many years, a hero from Weep by the name of Godslayer visits Zosma, bringing with him Lazlo's hopes of figuring out what happened to the city.

Within the plot, there is a central storyline, however it is pretty slow. The plot really ramps up during the second half of the book, and I will say that it is the better half. I love books that are more character driven, so I was fine with this, but if you want an actual progression towards a goal, this book will be tough.

They story of Isogal, Eril-Fane, and Azareen broke my heart, specifically the part where (view spoiler). It was heart breaking in the most perfect way.

The reveal and cliffhanger at the end was immaculate and brought tears to my eyes. The book ended at a perfect place to where I'd want to read the sequel.

» READABILITY «
Not gonna lie, the beginning of the book was slow. Especially since we were introduced to a lot of new vocabulary and because of the flowery language. However, after a few chapters, the book got better and better. It really ramps up after part 1. The first half was slower paced and the second half was faster paced.

» CHARACTERS «
The characters in this book are great. The central characters all have motives and aren't one-dimensional. They all have beliefs that are understandable and imperfect. Even the less likable characters have a (generally) good, but ultimately flawed reason for acting the way they do.

There were a lot of characters in this book, and I was surprised at the fact that (aside from the unique names), they were all distinguishable from another.

» WRITING «
The writing style of this book is very superfluous and descriptive. It is incredibly evident in the first few chapters, but after while, it becomes a lot easier to read.

Within the book, there are a lot of moments of exposition and info-dumps, but they felt natural enough.

» OVERALL «
Holy crap. I just finished this book and I love it. The ending was phenomenal. 2021 is so far starting off really well. This is everything I wanted out of a fantasy.