no book aesthetic just book review
Book Review:
DNF around page 70
I really thought I was going to love this one. The beginning immediately pulled me in and I was genuinely invested in Tiernan’s story. Unfortunately, once the story got further along I found myself struggling with the different POVs and some of the relationship dynamics. I couldn’t fully connect with the direction the story was taking and after taking a week-long break, I realized I wasn’t excited to pick it back up.
I tried to push through because I didn’t want another DNF but eventually I found myself speed-reading just to get through it which isn’t how I want to experience a book.
I’m disappointed because the beginning had so much potential for me but ultimately, this just wasn’t the right book for me. I can definitely see why it has such a devoted fanbase but unfortunately I couldn’t connect with it enough to continue. #dnfbook #bookreview #penelopedouglas #credence #darkromance
Reading 'Credence' by Penelope Douglas was an intriguing experience that started with high expectations. The author is well-known for her ability to craft complex dark romance novels, which often captivate readers with compelling characters and intense emotional drama. At first, Tiernan’s story pulled me in with raw emotion and an unsettling atmosphere that promised a gripping narrative. However, as I progressed beyond the initial chapters, the multiple points of view began to complicate the storytelling. Switching between perspectives is a technique that can enhance depth, but here it felt more disjointed than enriching. This fragmentation made it difficult to establish a strong connection with the characters or narrative flow. Another challenge was the representation of relationship dynamics, which felt uneasy and sometimes conflicted with my reading preferences. While some readers might appreciate the tension and moral ambiguity, it can be a hurdle for those seeking more straightforward romantic development. Taking a week-long break was an important step for me to reassess my engagement with the book. Sometimes stepping away allows readers to rekindle excitement, but unfortunately, that was not the case here. I realized I was more focused on finishing the book rather than enjoying it, an experience signaled by my speed-reading. I have great respect for Penelope Douglas and understand why 'Credence' has earned a devoted fanbase—her compelling writing style and willingness to tackle darker themes are notable. Nevertheless, this book didn’t resonate with me the way I hoped. For readers who enjoy intricate dark romance with challenging themes, it might be a worthwhile read. If you find yourself struggling with multiple POVs or complex emotional themes, it might be helpful to sample a few chapters before committing. Reading diverse reviews can also provide insight into whether 'Credence' aligns with your tastes. Ultimately, not every book is for every reader, and knowing when to set a book aside is part of the reading journey.