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A review by whatsheread
The Kept by James Scott
Upon the book’s opening sentences, readers know that The Kept is not going to be a cheery novel with its talk of mysterious sin flooding into the horrific scene Elspeth finds upon her return home. The guilt both Elspeth and Caleb carry with them as they hunt down the perpetrators is a physical presence within the book, manifesting itself in the dread and foreboding a reader feels about the likelihood of their success.
An emotionally heavy and intense book, there is little in the way to lighten its tone. The story’s serious tones complement the serious subject matter and uncomfortable scenes that occur specifically because of their searches. To add levity to the story would be to undo the solemnity that is vital to understanding Elspeth’s mindset and Caleb’s willingness to go against every lesson of forgiveness he learned.
Unfortunately, the stark, gorgeous narrative cannot overcome certain negatives within the story proper. For one, Elspeth’s baby obsession remains odd in that Scott does not explain her desires as thoroughly as he does other elements of the story. Similarly, her thoughts of her husband raise more questions than answers. It makes for a rather frustrating read at times as one feels that the answers to Elspeth’s unusual marriage arrangements are key to understanding her motivation and determination.
Extremely dark, The Kept is a story of innocence lost. Caleb’s ruthless entry into the adult world is shocking not only for the acts themselves but because of the complete lack of emotion in which they occur. Even more dreadful is the truth revealed about his birthright and the lasting consequences of Elspeth’s actions. The gut-wrenching final scenes sum up this grim novel about revenge, sacrifice, greed, and resilience and leave readers with a resounding sense of loss at what was as well as what could have been for all involved parties.
An emotionally heavy and intense book, there is little in the way to lighten its tone. The story’s serious tones complement the serious subject matter and uncomfortable scenes that occur specifically because of their searches. To add levity to the story would be to undo the solemnity that is vital to understanding Elspeth’s mindset and Caleb’s willingness to go against every lesson of forgiveness he learned.
Unfortunately, the stark, gorgeous narrative cannot overcome certain negatives within the story proper. For one, Elspeth’s baby obsession remains odd in that Scott does not explain her desires as thoroughly as he does other elements of the story. Similarly, her thoughts of her husband raise more questions than answers. It makes for a rather frustrating read at times as one feels that the answers to Elspeth’s unusual marriage arrangements are key to understanding her motivation and determination.
Extremely dark, The Kept is a story of innocence lost. Caleb’s ruthless entry into the adult world is shocking not only for the acts themselves but because of the complete lack of emotion in which they occur. Even more dreadful is the truth revealed about his birthright and the lasting consequences of Elspeth’s actions. The gut-wrenching final scenes sum up this grim novel about revenge, sacrifice, greed, and resilience and leave readers with a resounding sense of loss at what was as well as what could have been for all involved parties.