Genre: Young Adult - paranormal
Rating: 3.5 stars
Review: I'm a sucker for creepy, eerie stories, especially when they're set somewhere with such a rich history. And the fact that it surrounds a mysterious figure such as Jack the Ripper makes it even more intriguing to read and learn more about. I was thoroughly entertained and was into the story all throughout.
I especially liked the way the author, Maureen Johnson, took a paranormal route to the story as well - made it even more surprisingly original and fresh. As for her writing, I think she did a great job painting a picture for her readers. As I was reading this book, I found it easy to imagine myself actually living where the story itself takes place - in a beautiful city like London, in a mysterious boarding school like Wexford. I also liked the way she developed the plot naturally. It didn't appear to be rushed, forced, or contrived in any way.
I have to admit though that while the characters are cool to get to know as I was reading the book, now, days after finishing it, I've come to realize they're forgettable to me. This doesn't make them bad characters; just not necessarily favorites or stand-outs to me.
Overall, I really loved the premise for this book. It was highly intriguing and interesting, suspenseful and exciting. Even though none of the characters stood out to me, I still enjoyed it. Is it as good as everyone claims it to be? Maybe not for me. I liked it, but didn't LOVE it. I would still, however, recommend it to anybody who likes eerie stories and the paranormal genre! I don't think you'd be disappointed.
Great honest take/review :)
ReplyDeleteKind of a bummer that you didn't love it, but at least you enjoyed it. It's been on my TBR for a long time because I love creepy books.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds interesting - I like the idea of a mix of sinister and paranormal with well-presented characters and setting. I might try it. Great review!
ReplyDeleteI literally just finished the Name of the Star, and I really like it. I like the genre and the whole idea. I'm a big fan of Maureen Johnson, she knows just where to put in a little comic relief or sarcasm. I agree about the characters, especially her roommate whose name I cannot remember. It's like as soon as the creepy stuff started happening she just kind of fell to the way side. But I still really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteGreat honest review. I've thought about reading this one, but there are so many other books that seem more interesting.
ReplyDeleteKate - I actually have never read any from Maureen Johnson which is disappointing, I know! :P But I totally agree with her roommate. She seems to have so much potential! Maybe we'll see more from her in the sequel or something.
ReplyDeleteHolly - It's a good one! Some absolutely loved this book, so I'd suggest you try it anyway to see if you'd agree more with them :)
Thanks for the review! I've been debating pulling this off my TBR shelf. I like eerie, so this be a good one for me.
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