Spells for Forgetting (7/25): Finished Reading *Spoilers OK*

[Kathi, Moderator & Book Lover]

Have you finished reading Spells for Forgetting by Adrienne Young? What did you think of it? Strengths? Weak points? What grabbed you—or what didn’t?

Spoilers OK here!

[Kateblue]

I haven't finished yet, but I have to say that the first two chapters, and chapter 2 in particular, just seem to be a way to wedge in the bacground of the story instead of adding to the story itself. Also, overly descriptive and sometimes word choice is confusing. But still continuing, so it cannot be too bad :-)

[Shel, Moderator]

I've already returned the book to the library so I can't speak to specifics, but I enjoyed the descriptions and use of language. This is my second of Young's books (the first I read was The Unmaking of June Farrow, which I think I liked better than this one but it's close) and I think she is very good at atmosphere and setting.

[Kateblue]

Forgot to say this -- review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

I'd like to know if any of you thought any of the things I did.

[Shel, Moderator]

I don't disagree with most of the critiques you wrote in your review, but they're things that don't really bother me in a book because I mostly read for character and atmosphere.

I do disagree with your statement that it's not really fantasy - the magic isn't a major plot point, but it's clearly a part of the world (or at least, the island).

[Natalie]

Just finished it. I rarely read books with such heavy, emotional language so it felt like a nice change of pace for me. I agree Shel, the author is skilled at creating an atmospheric read.
I agree with some of what you pointed out Kateblue: inconsistencies, some language that didn't really advance the plot, and the book is more fiction than fantasy.
I really liked the concept of the island and like August and Emery (even though August, at times, sounds more feminine than masculine).
My problem with the story is:
-the community intrigue and heavy handedness seemed to come out of nowhere at the end
-Emery and August complete rejection of Saoirse seems like throwing the baby out with the bathwater
I'm glad this book was chosen; I thought the story was intriguing!