Broken Dolls

What I expected: a whimsical fantasy with fairytale elements that dipped its toes into the waters of horror, like all of the classic fairytales did. You know, magic and adventure, maybe a bittersweet ending but good would ultimately triumph.

What I got: pseudo-dystopian science fiction with hints of fairytale twists, sprinkled with questions of mortality while a disease is eradicating large swaths of the population. Also, good advice on how NOT to be a parent. Maybe don't abandon your young son to live life as a doll?

I'll admit that I was initially drawn to this book because of its cover (as I have never fully grown out of my emoteen Hot Topic days), but this was a really unique reading experience. However, I can't say I fully liked it; I didn't think any of the topics were really explored in depth, and it kind of felt like all of the characters had the same voice. No one was really distinct and while the plot elements were intriguing, they never clicked. I might read the second one to see if Ella gets her memories back again, and if so, how that plays out with her and Gabby but overall it fell flat. 2.5 doll-obsessed mad scientists out of 5, bumped up for originality.