5.0
adventurous dark funny mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

The magic of Ransom Riggs's writing is back in a new series. A little bit dark, a little bit weird, a little bit nostalgic, and a good amount of fun to read. Leopold Berry is a bit of an abnormal normal guy. He's pretty average, but what goes on in his mind is a little bit extra. An old television show seems to be coming to life in pieces around him, but is it really all in his head? Riggs has created a whole new world for exploration and this novel feels like just the tip of the iceberg. I have a feeling that I'm in for a wild ride as this series continues. The plot is mysterious and full of odd events that don't really get explained. The reader is experiencing things through Leopold's eyes, so they're left just as baffled as Berry himself. It's a great read that moves at a nice steady pace, with just enough trepidation to make things feel even more mysterious. Atmospheric with a gritty feel, I felt immersed in this experience and I really enjoyed it. It's magical and unusual and just what I would expect from a Ransom Riggs read. Very much looking forward to the next in the series.