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A review by semdan
Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
Very solid, well written book. A few minor to moderate plot points could’ve been fleshed out a little more and I personally could’ve gone without some of the teen intimacy descriptions (feels slightly uncomfortable to read as an adult), but overall I liked it! Love that this is a mystery/thriller style book with black main characters. The main characters are also layered and multi-dimensional. The second half is stronger than the first half. In terms of the two main characters, I honestly didn’t find them very lovable, but I think making them complicated and flawed as a result of their traumas, upbringings, environment, etc. made them more interesting even if I didn’t feel personally drawn to their personalities.
Moderate: Bullying, Cursing, Racism, Car accident, and Toxic friendship
Minor: Death, Homophobia, Racial slurs, Stalking, Suicide attempt, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Alcohol, and Sexual harassment