The Q

Title: The Q

Author: Beth Brower

Source: Own

My Review:

I was intimidated by the size of this book. Instead of committing to reading it straight through, I decided to start with a chapter a day. That didn't last long, as the first chapter captured my interest and curiosity. However, a few chapters in, I started wondering if I should DNF the book. 

Brower is slowly building this world, which is not something I have much patience for. It is very description-driven, which I get, but personally, it was too much. Since this is an unpopular opinion, I will remind readers that I much prefer character-driven stories to description-based stories. I kept at it because I had previously read her Emma M Lions books, and it took me a bit to get into them as well.

Basically, Quincy is forced to fulfill twelve requirements that her uncle set before his death, in order for her to keep the Q. Quincy is frustrated and angry with the situation, but also with Arch, her glorified babysitter, who is there to ensure she completes them. The problem is that Quincy doesn't know what the requirements are.

At the end of the book, was I glad I finished it? I guess so. We finally learn why Quincy is so against people, and the trauma from her childhood that made her the way she is. She does experience character growth, and I did care about her and Arch by the end of the book. A lot is going on, but I also stand by my earlier statement that the book could have been pared down and, in my opinion, would have been better for it.

note: mild and unnecessary swearing 😒

★★★/5

Synopsis (Goodreads):  

CAN QUINCY ST. CLAIRE KEEP THE Q?

A dying man with a scheme
A charming smuggler one step ahead of the law
A former foundling with a mangled hand
A family of kingmakers
A printing tycoon
A constable on the trail of justice
An idealistic solicitor with secrets of his own
&
The genius at the center of it all, Quincy St. Claire