Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
The premise caught my eye immediately, an elderly woman forming a bond with a highly intelligent octopus at a small-town aquarium? I was intrigued. I expected something charming and offbeat, but I wasn’t prepared for just how emotionally layered this story would be.

✅ What I Liked:
Tova is the heart of this novel. Her quiet resilience and deeply human grief were portrayed with such empathy. I was completely invested in her story from the start. And then there’s Marcellus, the scene-stealing octopus with a sharp mind and a sharper wit. His perspective added warmth, humour, and a dose of unexpected wisdom.

I also appreciated the slow-burn pacing and how the lives of Tova, Marcellus, and Cameron gradually intertwined. The themes of loneliness, chosen family, and the slow rebuilding of hope felt authentic and well-earned. The Pacific Northwest setting, with its salty air and quiet melancholy, was a lovely backdrop.

❎ What I didn’t Like:
Cameron took a while to grow on me. His early chapters felt a bit repetitive, and while his character arc ultimately paid off, it slowed the pacing in parts. Some of the plot developments were a touch predictable, especially if you’re an experienced reader of character-driven fiction.

Also, while Marcellus was delightful, I found myself wishing for even more from his point of view—his chapters were so strong that I craved just a bit more of his insight.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
It’s perfect for readers who enjoy emotionally rich stories about unlikely friendships and second chances. If you liked The One Hundred Years of Lenni and Margot or A Man Called Ove, you’ll likely find something to love here. The blend of whimsy and melancholy makes it an ideal pick for a thoughtful, feel-good read.

💭 Final Thoughts:
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a quiet novel with a big heart. While a few pacing issues held it back from being a five-star read for me, it’s still a beautifully told story about grief, healing, and the surprising ways we connect. with each other, and with the world around us.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE

Final Rating ★★★★ – Tender, quirky, and unexpectedly moving