I was going to wait until I knew more of the story (I’m less than 30 chaps in) but I keep writing comments that are way too long so clearly I’m already too involved emotionally. My review might sound bad at first, but bear with me, it’s not. So far I like Elia, she’s taking all the shit thrown at her like a champ. Reth is still on probation, but it’s only because I fear his kingly duties might force him into some poor decisions. As a man, he’s been nothing but sweet and respectful and hot, really hot. I’m really looking forward to how their romance unfolds. I think that part will be amazing and sweet. I hate everyone else! Of course that’s because I’m completely empathising with Elia as the author intends, and so far the only good thing that’s happened to her is that Reth is a good man, who understands human ways enough to show her respect in a way she understands. I’m still waiting for someone else to show a slither of sympathy to Elia. It’s only been a day in the story, so I’m hopeful. The reason for my hatred is simple: beautifully maintained world building. The Anima have a culture that is utterly foreign, and they make no excuses for it. They have their ways, and Elia (along with the reader) is expected to keep up. And the whole experience rubs me the wrong way. Elia’s own human ways are ignored by most, and that denial of her is painful to me. To the point that I need to make long comments where I complain about how they treat her. So yeah, so far it’s a painful if interesting read, but mostly it’s painfully real. Because it’s what culture shock feels like when you’re alone and scared. And I’m really impressed that the writter can ellicit such a raw feeling in me. Honestly this just shows how good of a story this will be. Because a book that can make the reader feel strongly both good and bad emotions, has the potential to be great.
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What an awesome review! Thank you so much. I've travelled a lot and the whole "culture shock" thing was exactly what I was trying to portray in this story, so this was like getting a present from a reader. Thank you. You brought me joy this morning.
Good job on getting the point through! I’ve dabled with writing and I know it’s not easy to do. I really am impressed with how on the nose that sense of alienation has been. In my own travels, I’ve never felt quite that isolated, but there’s been moments of wanting to break something just from the frustration of feeling a wall that keeps me from clicking with a group. Reading this has been bringing up that same emotion with a vengeance. I hope eventually I get to vibe with a part of the anima culture along with Elia, that would be very satisfying. Also maybe someday I won’t feel compelled to write half a novel with every comment lol
Lol, a woman of many words is a woman after my own heart 😉
