Stella Rainbow

4.5

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*

Wow! Seems like the most appropriate word to describe this book. The writing was superb and the characters were relatable and loveable. To me, this book highlighted the importance of meeting pronouns right and helping see others for who they are or want to be. Definitely a touching book that keeps you engaged from the very first page to the last.

The entire book I wanted to give Charlie a huge hug. I loved how supportive of Charlie Brady was and how he would do anything to make them comfortable. This book seriously made me wish that everyone had a space, outfit, and people that made them feel safe, seen, and comfortable.… (más)

This is a slow-moving series and even if #2 felt like it dragged out, it was interesting to see where it went.
Stella Rainbow's writing is a strange mix of simple and complex. There is no angst that is noteworthy even if she sometimes deals with angst-worthy topics.
The characters are not only NOT stereotypes - but they fight against stereotypes - yet they remain largely underdeveloped.
The plot seems straightforward and simple, but then it will take sudden turns and dives that can not be foreseen - you might be confident about how this will end, but not the path it will take.
Her writing is a mix of sometimes it flows and sometimes it doesn't and I wonder if this is an editing issue. Overall 3.5/5 rounded to 4. It feels like a part of a novel - not a novel in itself.… (más)

I have read some of Stella Rainbow's other works and enjoyed them as 'different' and outside the norms of m/m romances. I found this one similar in that Stella does not use stereotypes to 'flesh' out her stories.
The world-building is excellent and an interesting take on after-death experiences. While some elements will seem familiar, each has its own twist.
The character building? Well, it seems to be a step-by-step exploration of each character which can be frustrating if you like connecting with the characters quickly. By the end, I felt like I was just starting to get past the surface of each character so they feel incomplete.
The plot is still being revealed. I get the overarching premises, but I find that I am not able to see how the twists and turns will go. Stella is definitely not taking the straight route or even an expected path. Should be an interesting journey.
I will add that this book did not have the same flow that I remember from the others - if felt more -- rough? Like the editing missed a step.… (más)