Curtis’s Reviews > The Wax Child > Status Update
Curtis
is finished
Fizzled out in 2nd half; super predictable playout, no twists. Ravn's fragmentary style worked against, rather than with the story being told, unlike her previous work. Not much emotional intensity despite stakes. Prose at times excellent; other times overwrought or repetitive, like group dialogue scenes. Women's solidarity break down most interesting aspect, alongside gray area about good/bad magic. Undercooked.
— Jun 22, 2026 12:18PM
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Curtis
is on page 103 of 200
Magic a part of life; superstitions common, blurring distinction between witch/nonwitch. Women's solidarity motif, yet book plays on your suspicions with one. Probably misdirecting us against her, making reader participate in witch hunt mindset. Later, witches are shown to resist patriarchy as best they can, getting abused wife away from abuser. Creepy, especially start, but real horror will probably come from trial.
— Jun 17, 2026 07:40AM
