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~ Review 78 - Beauty and the Beast (one piece) by JJKAnime1235 ~

Book Information

Title: Beauty and the Beast (one piece)
Author: JJKAnime1235
Genre: fan fiction, romance
Chapters: 22 (ongoing)

Reviewed by Sharon_nthelse

Plot Development:
The plot introduces a harrowing journey of a young woman and a child on a boat amidst a raging storm. Flashbacks reveal past events, including a fiery palace and a public execution, which are implied to be connected to the present circumstances and the reason for their escape. The narrative establishes immediate danger with the storm worsening and the ship sinking. While the initial setup is engaging, the specific events leading to the escape and the connection between the past and present are still unfolding, creating a sense of mystery but also leaving much of the plot's direction to be revealed. The narrative unfolds dynamically, balancing action with introspection. The storm served as both a literal and metaphorical obstacle, shaping the protagonist's struggle. The suspense builds naturally, keeping the reader engaged.

Character Depth:
The protagonist's resilience, grief, and supernatural ability create a complex character. Her connection to the infant adds an emotional core, making her journey deeply personal. Her internal struggles are evident through her fear, frustration, and the pain of past memories.

Writing Style:
The prose is immersive and poetic, using vivid imagery to transport the reader into the protagonist's world. The writing style is descriptive, particularly in conveying the intensity of the storm and the protagonist's emotional state. Sensory details are used effectively, such as "thunderous lights," "hard rain," "salty aroma," and "crackling lights." The use of internal monologue and flashbacks allows for insights into the protagonist's thoughts and memories. There are instances of strong imagery, like the palace engulfed in flames. The pacing builds tension, especially during the storm sequences. The balance between internal thoughts and external chaos enhances engagement.

Originality:
The survival-at-sea theme is given a unique twist with the protagonist's supernatural ability, making it stand out. Her emotional and physical battle with the storm adds depth.

Grammar:
The writing flows well, with strong sentences structure. Minor refinements in pacing and transitions could enhance readability further. Overall, the grammar is generally competent, allowing for a clear understanding of the narrative. There are a few minor grammatical instances or phrasing that could be refined for smoother reading. For example, in "All that surrounded her were the seas, its waves slapped the boat wavering her balance," the phrasing "wavering her balance" could be slightly rephrased for better flow. Also, some sentences feel a bit run-on.

Emotional Impact:
This novel invokes intense emotions: fear, hope, and heartbreak. The protagonist's silent pleas to the heavens and her fear for the infant create deeply moving moments. The tension is palpable as the boat begins to sink. The story successfully creates empathy for the protagonist and curiosity about her past.

Overall Coherence:
The narrative maintains a strong structure, with each passage contributing to the overarching plot. It flows logically, alternating between the present struggle and relevant flashbacks. The flashbacks provide context and hints to the protagonist's motivations and the gravity of her situation, gradually revealing pieces of her past. The transition between scenes and memories is generally smooth, allowing the reader to follow the unfolding events and connect them to backstory. The overarching theme of survival and escape ties the different narrative threads together.