Andi’s Reviews > The Helm of Midnight > Status Update
Andi
is on page 236 of 464
“cis men” and “cis women” and explaining “pronouns” complete with forward slashes (she/her, they/them) are choices in fantasy that I can never square in my head. Stands out strangely. This society was built on the concept of 5 genders and it appears analogous to 1800s to early 1900s New Orleans maybe? So why only cis men and women, why use ultra-modern language around this - doesn’t feel genuine
— Feb 23, 2025 09:06AM
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Andi’s Previous Updates
Andi
is on page 177 of 464
Story has hit its stride. Tense conversations related to the mystery feel purposeful now instead of forced and clunky like they were up to this point. Much better editing now too. Romances are not subtle and are awkwardly written, but this middle portion handles Krona’s feelings with action and grace. Til now, it was insecure fanfic-style body reactions and forced humor. Act 1 should’ve been rearranged maybe
— Feb 22, 2025 05:21PM
Andi
is on page 83 of 464
“hot agony ripped through her LOVE HANDLE” “well versed in climbing a steed while top-heavy” “It worried her. Annoyed her. Disturbed her.” “The speed at which they changed reminded him of a countdown” and how would these characters know what a countdown is? Are there screens in this world? Prose just this side of awkward and I am not following the setting at all
— Feb 21, 2025 10:11AM
Andi
is on page 69 of 464
I’m fascinated with how frustrated I am trying to read this book. Clear attempt to start the story as late as possible. I don’t think that advice works well for most fantasy novels. No introduction to the POV characters. No explanation of setting or “time period.” Sci-fantasy with no commitment to setting or clothes or language besides masks. So far not invested in the mystery. B plot is more interesting
— Feb 21, 2025 08:34AM
