Astrid Winterstein’s Reviews > Ace of Spades > Status Update
Astrid Winterstein
is on page 325 of 470
Identity and worldview are quickly becoming a theme in Ace of Spades, shown on the stage of Niveus Academy. Devon and Chiamaka are exploring their sexualities while their worlds are being clouded by their pasts. The issues of racism and homphobia that provide the basis for the conflict in the book intensify the foreboding atmosphere. I have found myself getting genuinely frightened, and even paranoid.
— Nov 16, 2025 07:49PM
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Astrid’s Previous Updates
Astrid Winterstein
is on page 469 of 470
The finale of the book ends with multiple shocking twists of betrayal. The diction of both narrators placed me in their mindset, so I felt like I was the one betrayed. In addition, the chapters became much shorter, adding to the frantic, anxiety inducing atmosphere. Overall, the entirety of the book was very much a thriller, and the brief moments of levity only increased the pace afterwards.
— Nov 17, 2025 12:47PM
Astrid Winterstein
is on page 165 of 470
The author has been slowly ratcheting up the suspense, with the events and pacing mirroring each other. She also uses repetition frequently, between the narrators and the flashbacks, almost making the book seem like poetry. The constant uncovering of clues is set back by more questions, but I get the impression that the narrative cannot keep going up without a more significant plot twist.
— Nov 10, 2025 12:43PM
Astrid Winterstein
is on page 85 of 470
Ace of Spades immediately begins with a commentary on being different. The two main characters, Devon and Chiamaka, are the only black students in a privileged white school, and Devon is ostracized further when he is publicly outed. The dynamics they have with other characters add to the tension and perspective on being part of the minority.
— Oct 27, 2025 12:44PM
