Mortal Follies

This book had such mixed reviews, I knew that I had to read it for myself. 

On the one hand, I get it - it's a meandering kind of story with the kind of strange narration that puts a lot of folks off. Especially those accustomed to more straightforward narratives. Personally, I really enjoyed Robin's interjection in storytelling but I'm partial to the impish nature of fae creatures. 

Yes, the story is slow moving, the language is decidedly archaic, & the antagonist during the whodunit portion of the book is pretty predictable but the world is immersive & the book is so well-written that I hardly noticed. The wry humor, subtle salaciousness, & blend of historical fiction & fantasy was a lot of fun. I'd love more sapphic stories like this. 

I think if I had one critique that I didn't wave away, it'd be that I wish there was …

I think I read this at the wrong time.

There were really good moments, but too few and far between for me to actually enjoy it. The narration was the best part; Robin’s quips were witty and he had some very good lines that were striking both in character and analysis.

The characters, for all of their charm and quirks (Lysistrata especially - I adore her), had little growth with arcs that really fell flat. I did not like the love interest, she reminded me a bit too much of the tortured male protag that just needs an innocent (younger) woman who knows nothing of sex that they can use for pleasure and who will help them “feel love again.”

2/5 Almost a 1/5. The book truly became a slog until things picked up again around the 90% mark - much too late for my tastes. Suggested for lovers of …