Gothikana

Did I Miss Something?

I found myself questioning the widespread acclaim for Gothikana by RuNyx as I read through its pages. While not entirely devoid of enjoyment, my motivation to finish the book dwindled by the end. Despite high expectations fueled by positive reviews, the narrative unfolded like a predictable fan fiction with a writing style reminiscent of high school attempts at crafting a Hot Topic goth romance.

The characters lacked depth, and the situations felt excessively convenient, straining even the limits of suspension of disbelief. The plot, regrettably, offered little innovation and failed to adhere to the “show, don't tell” rule of storytelling. Instead, crucial aspects were narrated rather than skillfully revealed, leaving the reader feeling spoon-fed information.

The supposed chemistry between the characters, especially the brooding gothic figure Vad, felt forced and lacked authenticity. Vad, a one-dimensional caricature, came across as more mundane than mysterious. Even the intimate scenes, intended to be hardcore and sexy, fell flat due to the juvenile writing that constantly emphasized these aspects rather than letting them naturally unfold.

The protagonist, Corvina, struggled to evoke genuine empathy, and her constant tragedy seemed unconvincing. The overall writing resembled the efforts of a teenager seeking feedback, displaying potential but not quite ready for publication. The setting, while decent, adhered to a basic and predictable template, and the mystery element failed to sustain intrigue.

Throughout the book, the portrayal of professionals such as professors, doctors, and private investigators lacked authenticity, making their dialogues appear absurd and detached from reality. The narrative suffered from a lack of depth and research in these areas.

In conclusion, Gothikana, while having moments of mediocrity, could benefit significantly from a thorough editorial review. If readers approach it with tempered expectations, aware of its shortcomings, they might find elements to enjoy, but it falls short of being a polished and engaging work.