3/5 ⭐

9.57/10

Read from:8/5-8/17

Genre: Fantasy Horror

What worked for me

Characters

The characters were great. Kara is an interesting character because she is trying to start a new life, and the museum is her way of doing something for her post-divorce life. Simon was great because he was a bit nerdy, and he knew a lot of facts which I loved. Kara’s uncle was great as well. I also loved the journey of this book.

Writing

I’ve read four books by T. Kingfisher, and this one was my second favorite. I love the vibe of the Musume and all the exhibits there. The portal fantasy element was also very well done; I loved it so much. The characters in the fantasy world were a combination of funny and sweet.

What could have been better

Plot

I still loved the story of this. I just wasn’t as engaged in it as I thought I could be if the story was more. I just felt the story was a little slow at times.

Romance

I get that this wasn’t a romance story. I just wanted more of romance between Kara and Simon as a treat. I saw the start of romance which I wish was explored more.

Strangely Enjoyable

This is my first read by T. Kingfisher this is one of my first attempts at reading the genre of fantasy in 2020. I have a hard time connecting with the genre there for I am super selective. The book however had many spooky qualities that made it closer to horror for me which made me intrigued enough to want to read it. To me this book is like Alien meets The Chronicles of Narnia which shockingly enough I just finished a day ago with my nephew. At page one I fell in love with Carrots relationship with her friend Simon and what made it more enjoyable for me is that one of my closest friends has the name Simon. I felt like I was Carrot and he was in the story with me. I loved how Kara (Carrot) moves in with her Uncle and pretty much runs the museum as her uncle recovers and what is more entertaining is that while he is recovering the world comes undone. I loved every minute. There is a hole in the wall of the museum that leads to a new creepy place that the readers get to explore. creepy willows, shadow things, scary people, other worlds, bizarre bunkers, and so much more to keep the pages turning. I want to apologize for my delayed review to all involved because my delay has no baring on how good this book is. I recommend this to anyone who loves horror mixed with a little bit of fantasy. Also a Finalist in the 2020 Goodreads Choice Awards very well deserved!