After reading the brief description of Things in Jars, I really had no idea what I was getting myself into when I began. I can safely say that I was completely, supremely surprised in the best way possible. Jess Kidd has crafted something truly unique and special here. Things in Jars is so unlike anything I’ve read before. It is refreshing and fun and heart-wrenching and weird and beautiful.

One of the things I enjoyed most about Things in Jars is Kidd’s characters. Every single one of them is different and colorful and interesting. I can’t think of a single bland individual, and a lot of that is due to Kidd’s wonderful descriptive ability. From the massive housemaid, to the circus king, the ghost of Ruby, to Bridie herself – every character is memorable. I also liked how Kidd ties all of these players together throughout the story, connecting the past and present in an intricate web. There is a lot of subtle and dark humor to be had here as well, coming to light most in the interactions between the varied personalities.

The story of Things in Jars is right up my alley. I love any sort of mysteries that involve inexplicable phenomenon and the supernatural. Add to that a marine theme and I was instantly engrossed. I particularly enjoyed the non-linear aspect, learning about the characters’ histories interspersed throughout the overarching plot. Kidd doesn’t reveal too much information too quickly, and keeps the reader guessing about certain elements until the very end.

Jess Kidd’s writing style is really what brings this story to life. She has a poetic way with words and an incredible gift for description. Every scene was painted clearly and colorfully, allowing the reader to really place themselves within the narrative. Despite her sprawling prose, the pace of Things in Jars never suffers, and the novel certainly never becomes dull or uninteresting.

I honestly can’t think of a single thing I disliked about Things in Jars. I loved it from beginning to end, and it’s easily destined to become one of my favorite books of the year.