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A review by laura_middlxton
Dragonfly In Amber by Diana Gabaldon
adventurous
funny
hopeful
informative
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Diana gabaldon’s books are no small feat to read, that much is certain. However, what they achieve in their depth is an astounding understanding of the politics, personal lives, interpersonal relationships, beliefs, world building and historical understanding that make this book comprehensively wonderful.
I know some may find it slow going, and I’ll admit 3-4 hours reading is my mental limit on all the books in this series, but what you gain from that is worth the time it takes to enjoy it.
The characters are witty, brutal, flawed, funny, hopeful, hopeless, and so very human. Some disappoint us, some fill us with joy, others feel like a blight on the page every time they’re mentioned. But they carry the story on their backs and each one is central to the storyline.
Gabaldon’s writing is beautiful and descriptive- there is no feeling left confused, no thought left unshared between her pen and our eyes, and she builds such a complete picture of the setting, plot, and characters that there are no obvious holes in the story at all.
Claire’s voice is cynical, intelligent, witty, sarcastic and mature (!) - a welcome reprieve from the usual female MC trope of young, foolish, and heart sick. She brings a fresh feminist perspective to the 18th century world, and reminds us of the small mercies of the 21st century that are often taken for granted; healthcare, rights for women, access to foods, and warm shelter. Oh, and a nice warm bath!
I look forward to the rest of this series, after a small break to mentally prepare myself, of course 🤣
I know some may find it slow going, and I’ll admit 3-4 hours reading is my mental limit on all the books in this series, but what you gain from that is worth the time it takes to enjoy it.
The characters are witty, brutal, flawed, funny, hopeful, hopeless, and so very human. Some disappoint us, some fill us with joy, others feel like a blight on the page every time they’re mentioned. But they carry the story on their backs and each one is central to the storyline.
Gabaldon’s writing is beautiful and descriptive- there is no feeling left confused, no thought left unshared between her pen and our eyes, and she builds such a complete picture of the setting, plot, and characters that there are no obvious holes in the story at all.
Claire’s voice is cynical, intelligent, witty, sarcastic and mature (!) - a welcome reprieve from the usual female MC trope of young, foolish, and heart sick. She brings a fresh feminist perspective to the 18th century world, and reminds us of the small mercies of the 21st century that are often taken for granted; healthcare, rights for women, access to foods, and warm shelter. Oh, and a nice warm bath!
I look forward to the rest of this series, after a small break to mentally prepare myself, of course 🤣
Content Warnings
Graphic: War, Murder, Violence, and Sexism
Moderate: Rape, Sexual assault, and Sexual harassment