You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Take a photo of a barcode or cover
queenofsages 's review for:
The Gilded Ones
by Namina Forna
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This book has potential. The themes of misogyny, classism, and eugenics are heavy topics that need a deft hand to guide them. Deka is a young girl desperate to conform, who is then rapidly abandoned by her support network when her blood is revealed to be gold. For example – the rejection from her father is cartoonishly fast and one-noted. A more experienced writer would consider and include the emotional toil of a parent forsaking their child to a supposed demon, even if just in glimpses.
The author rushes through important plot points via telling, and fails to give vivid descriptions unless she is detailing acts of torture. The writing level and the audience don't match up for this reason.
Emotional components are ham fisted. The rising action involves a scene in which Deka's dream team of gold blooded girls are assembled, and their "purpose" is spoken in plain, unnatural detail. "You, were chosen for your loyalty. And you (a survivor of torture, rape, slavery) were chosen because you have endless pain. A lake full of pain. The author includes painful, violent, traumatic adult themes, but the execution doesn't give it sufficient justice. It feels as if these real life topics are being used as plot points, instead of empowering survivors.
Relationships are underdeveloped. Shared trauma via osmosis is not sufficient to explain how they form. We are not shown how characters become attached by these experiences. We are expected to intuit that their shared oppression is enough to unite them in a sisterhood. Deka and her sidekick become attached at the hip very suddenly, with little motivation. A girl who resents Deka's optimism becomes a loyal friend and supporter. A misogynist solider sees Deka's worth and a romance appears soon after.
The author rushes through important plot points via telling, and fails to give vivid descriptions unless she is detailing acts of torture. The writing level and the audience don't match up for this reason.
Emotional components are ham fisted.
Relationships are underdeveloped. Shared trauma via osmosis is not sufficient to explain how they form. We are not shown how characters become attached by these experiences. We are expected to intuit that their shared oppression is enough to unite them in a sisterhood. Deka and her sidekick become attached at the hip very suddenly, with little motivation. A girl who resents Deka's optimism becomes a loyal friend and supporter. A misogynist solider sees Deka's worth and a romance appears soon after.
I understand that many felt inspired by this book, which is understandable. There are some one liners that, on their own, are powerful. "Are we girls, or are we demons? This book became popular for a reason. I think, mechanically, it is lacking, but the idea indicates potential for the author if she continues to develop her craft.
Ultimately, this book is an easy read for older people who can handle mature themes and just want to focus on action.
Ultimately, this book is an easy read for older people who can handle mature themes and just want to focus on action.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Rape