marginsandmeanings 's review for:

The Summer War by Naomi Novik

4.25

adventurous dark emotional mysterious slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: No

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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The Summer War is a short story, brief but lingering. It reads like a classic fairy tale passed down through generations, and feels both familiar and fresh. 

The heart of this novella lies with three siblings, and the deep and tangled love between them. This isn’t a romance, though there is love, and this isn’t a quest, though there is sacrifice. It’s something a little… quieter and older? It’s a story of seasons and bargains, and what it means to hold someone’s fate in your hands. 

I read it in 2 sittings, totally absorbed. The pacing is perfect, unhurried with just enough detail to root you into the world without weighing you down with worldbuilding. While I do think this could (and should!) be turned into a full novel, I also admire how fully realized it feels in its current form. There’s so much potential here for deeper worldbuilding, and more complex character story arcs. But I guess there’s also something satisfying about a story that knows its shape. 

If I had one wish, it would simply be to wish for more. More time with the characters, more glimpses into the strange, summer world. 

Highly recommend if you’re in the mood for something short, beautiful and a little bit haunting. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Ray for the advanced copy of this book! I enjoyed the read, and this review is my honest opinion and feedback.