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A review by bookish_selkie
Buried Deep and Other Stories by Naomi Novik
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I really enjoy Naomi Novik’s work, so I was very excited to read this anthology. I enjoyed the opening tale, which focused on a noblewoman who must use all her wits to survive a pirate attack. I love pirate stories and the role reversal was excellent. I liked the shortened version of Spinning Silver and hope it draws new readers into that world. Another story that I particularly enjoyed was “Blessings.” I love the theme that blessings can have a twist to them and what one views as a curse, another views as a strength.
One of my favorite stories was the re-imagining of Elizabeth Bennet as a dragon rider. I loved her interactions with the dragon, the agency it gave her, and how parts of the beloved story still shone through. Another story that will haunt my thoughts long after the last page is “Seven.” In this creative and atmospheric tale, a young woman is forced to accept a deadly gift. She must sculpt a new statue for the city, but it will inevitably shorten her lifespan. With three young children, she is determined to make the most of her time. This story did an excellent job of reminding us that no one knows how much time they have and that all power comes with a price. That price may or may not be worth it, depending on your perspective.
The final tale is a peek into a new world, which promises to be spectacular. I love ocean adventures and was intrigued by the mysteries the crew found as they ventured off the map. The sibling relationship was so relatable! Buried Deep and Other Stories has something for everyone; I would highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read what Naomi Novik writes next!
Thank you to Naomi Novik, Del Rey, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorite stories was the re-imagining of Elizabeth Bennet as a dragon rider. I loved her interactions with the dragon, the agency it gave her, and how parts of the beloved story still shone through. Another story that will haunt my thoughts long after the last page is “Seven.” In this creative and atmospheric tale, a young woman is forced to accept a deadly gift. She must sculpt a new statue for the city, but it will inevitably shorten her lifespan. With three young children, she is determined to make the most of her time. This story did an excellent job of reminding us that no one knows how much time they have and that all power comes with a price. That price may or may not be worth it, depending on your perspective.
The final tale is a peek into a new world, which promises to be spectacular. I love ocean adventures and was intrigued by the mysteries the crew found as they ventured off the map. The sibling relationship was so relatable! Buried Deep and Other Stories has something for everyone; I would highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read what Naomi Novik writes next!
Thank you to Naomi Novik, Del Rey, and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.