『 JosefinaFAAD 』

✰ cover
The cover fits the genre really well. It has subtle darkness to it--kind of mysterious. The font is also exquisite.

✰ title
I'm not exactly sure what the meaning behind the title is yet, however, it is very unique!

✰ blurb
The blurb is nothing less than perfect. It's neither too long nor too short. We get a good understanding of what we are going into.

✰ characters
I found solace in Ray. He struggles with something that I can relate to. [Although, I have a good understanding now that I've read up to the seventh chapter, about why he might be having those hallucinations]. For me, anxiety really does feel like you're drowning and while I was reading what he was going through, it made me feel not so alone. It consumes you--takes over your life. It's honestly an awful experience. The author did a spectacular job at portraying these feelings!

I'm still trying to figure Gio out. He seems like a very interesting character and I wonder what lies in store for him in the next chapters.

The relationship between Ray and Gio reminded me of a book I read a few months ago titled: A Complicated Love Story Set in Space--[spoiler] where one of the boys loves the other boy but doesn't remember who he is. I'm such a sucker for these relationships!

✰ plot
The author has made this story completely their own. It's absolutely fantastic--something that I have never seen done before. I like the idea that this dark entity feasts on Ray's doubts. We also get to find out who Ray really is and it was something I completely did not expect!

I like the fact that it's hard to distinguish what's real and what isn't--it really keeps you on your toes! Makes you question yourself...

✰ pacing
The pacing is great. I like that you change the point of view between Gio and Ray. Not only do we get to see what Ray is feeling, but also what Gio is feeling as well. It all meshes really well as things come perfectly together within each chapter.

✰ grammar/language
The descriptions are so vivid--I can imagine things perfectly! Like when Mrs. Hatchet turned into the terrifying monster, or how Sid's two tails move and how his ears twitch.

Your use of dialogue is great. I know it can be pretty tough getting this down, but I think you've done a splendid job. It reveals the personalities of the characters--especially Ray and Gio.

✰ overall thoughts
Overall, I think this is a great read. There seem to be only a few more chapters left, so I plan on finishing it just to see what happens next! I highly recommend giving this a read, you won't be disappointed.

✎ . . . .

Happy writing!