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third_bookworm's review against another edition
dark
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
This was very good. A+ fictional sibling relationship between Hild and Hereswith.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Miscarriage, and Alcohol
Moderate: Misogyny, Slavery, Abortion, Pregnancy, Death, Death of parent, and Sexual content
Minor: Incest, Animal death, Sexual harassment, Sexual assault, and War
solntse's review
challenging
informative
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
Rich with fascinating historical detail and insights, Nicola Griffith has yet again enchanted me with her writing. I went into the novel not knowing too much about the time period, but the novel interested me enough to start doing my own research. The prose was beautiful, and I enjoyed the character's internal action and development. The author was good at giving clues about new political developments, and Hild's logical way of thinking was a great way to make me familiar with the implications of them while reminding me of characters that I had forgotten about- especially when they had similar names! The pace of the novel is slow, and I would not recommend this to someone who is looking for an action-filled novel with lots of battles. The author depicts trauma well, and I really felt for Hild as she tried to process the horror of what she had seen and done. I did become a bit impatient towards the end, and the final climax was disappointing for me due to my feelings on the character. I'd recommend this novel to someone who enjoys historical fiction, rich characterisation, and lots of details about political intrigue. The grim realities of Hild's era are displayed and brought to life, and you realise how fearful and brutal life at that time could be. At the same time, the author shows moments of beauty and community that I really enjoyed. I am definitely going to pick up the sequel!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Violence, Religious bigotry, War, and Pregnancy
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