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ellemnope 's review for:

Immaculate Perception by Kik Phillips
4.0

* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. *

This is a quirky, entertaining, read that seems to run the gamut on feelings. It can be confusing, irritating, lovely, sad, funny, and so much more. In some ways, it reminded me heavily of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, including (now that I think of it) the cover. Eleanor and Lincoln share quite a few characteristics. They also share the experience of unique and troubled backgrounds. Though their stories are distinctly different, I think a reader who enjoyed one would enjoy the other.

I enjoyed the style of this book. The mix of chapter types, the different character points of view, and the inclusion of Lincoln's lists all contributed to creating a story that felt very full. I loved Lincoln's voice and the way that the narrative shifted so well between the characters so that the individual voices of Lincoln, Ranger, and Jesse came through with very clear personalities.

The narrative was good and the writing was smooth with the pacing of the book working just right, despite the occasional movement back and forth between past and present. The setup for the book was well crafted and I loved watching where the book took me. There were several moments along the way that I wasn't expecting and they treated me well, they were surprises in a good way.

The ending was a bit of a gut punch for me. It left me in a bit of a lurch and definitely wasn't what I was expecting or wanting in terms of wrap up. I could have done with another 100-150 pages. I tried to find out if this novel is meant to be a standalone or is perhaps the first in what could become a duology or series of some kind, but I was unable to locate any information. For my personal preference, I could definitely do with a follow up book as I feel that there is a lot left unsaid that I would like answers for. Without creating a review full of spoilers, suffice it to say that I needed more of this story and I need to know what happens beyond that last page as well as needing some additional information about some things within the total contents of the book. I am hoping that the author will continue to explore the character of Lincoln in a future work...it is something I would very much like to read.

As it is, I loved the majority of this book. I like a quirky read and enjoy a character with a unique personality, one who tells it as it is and who is truly adherent to themselves throughout the construction of the story. However, that ending has caused me a bit of struggle. I nearly rated this book a bit lower, but I really did enjoy it and I didn't want to punish it for my own internal struggles. I will be on the lookout for more from this author in the future.