Scan barcode
allisonwonderlandreads's review
adventurous
dark
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Angry girls and women are some of my favorite fantasy heroes at the moment. Especially those who don't mask it, who don't bend to make themselves into something more palatable. This retelling of The Wild Swans hands its heroine a torch to set the world on fire but leaves her with the choice to light it or find her own way.
Rowenna's craft is untaught because her mother fears how her anger will guide it. When her mother dies at the hands of a marine monster, Rowenna steps in to protect her family despite the lack of training. A working meant to return her father and brother's boat in a big storm brings her "mother" home, too. The monster's masquerade culminates in a curse that leaves Rowenna mute and her brothers as swans during daylight.
As Rowenna sets out to find a way to reverse this curse, she grapples with how to access her power without becoming who her mother feared. It's a compelling look at how sometimes the people you love best can still plant the deepest doubts. It's also about the complexity of a soul, not merely light or dark when each action requires a choice. I found this a lovely, haunting story that captures the essence of a dark fairytale. I recommend it to ya fantasy fans looking for a satisfying standalone with immersive atmosphere and world-building. Thanks to Simon Teen for my copy to read and review!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Animal death, and Blood
Moderate: Death of parent, Gaslighting, Gore, Grief, Murder, and Violence
More...