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verpissdich's review
hopeful
informative
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I like Cassy, but understand why she wasn't introduced earlier.
Tom's death was good for the plot Tom is a believable character, his piousness never seems completely unbelievable.
The examination of Christianity (or rather the church) as both a force for supporting and defeating slavery is remarkably nuanced. As is the distribution of the blame for slavery, which is placed on the north as well as the south. In fact, the north is at times criticized more heavily for it's role in slavery than the south, because it doesn't have the cultural and habitual excuse to fall back upon, and supports the trade through financial means while condemning it verbally.
Eva's death is very sad, and St Lawrence's death seems a bit forced/rushed but necessary for the plot. It seems there could have been a better way to kill him off
The subplot of George & Co's escape seems to get dropped after the first third of the book. In my opinion too much time at the start is spent on this subplot, compared to how much it gives at the end in return .
George's desire to move to Liberia and the discussion of nationalism at the end is very interesting
The only character that feels excessively unbalanced is Marie St Lawrence, who is entirely unlikeable without a single redeeming quality.
The end feels rushed and a little bit "happily ever after", but the purpose of the book has already been served so it's ok
The everpresent "life goes in tedium after events of tragedy and excitement" motif is very well done. After nearly every event, we are reminded of the tedium and toil of everyday life in a masterful way.
The examination of Christianity (or rather the church) as both a force for supporting and defeating slavery is remarkably nuanced. As is the distribution of the blame for slavery, which is placed on the north as well as the south. In fact, the north is at times criticized more heavily for it's role in slavery than the south, because it doesn't have the cultural and habitual excuse to fall back upon, and supports the trade through financial means while condemning it verbally.
The only character that feels excessively unbalanced is Marie St Lawrence, who is entirely unlikeable without a single redeeming quality.
The everpresent "life goes in tedium after events of tragedy and excitement" motif is very well done. After nearly every event, we are reminded of the tedium and toil of everyday life in a masterful way.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Slavery
Moderate: Murder, Panic attacks/disorders, Suicidal thoughts, Sexual harassment, Suicide, Sexual assault, Violence, and Sexual violence
Minor: Schizophrenia/Psychosis
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