A review by passionyoungwrites
The Book of Night Women by Marlon James

adventurous challenging dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Now, I know this is a slave narrative first and foremost but to me it is so much more. This is a story of self - acceptance, survival, and adaptation (as much as you can as a slave). My favorite characters are Lilith, Homer, Dulcimena, and Pallas. 

Through this story there were no dull moments, always something happening and times where you just know you must keep reading. 


⚡️

Lilith and Homer were a pair that was unmatched to me. The two held their own beliefs and were headstrong. They both did things in their own way and that showed true strength. 

The other Night women had their strengths too, but I feel they weren’t as strong as individuals but that’s to be expected due to their then present circumstances. 

⚡️

Lilith mastered her “darkness” to a point where she realized that she must take control of it before it controlled her. Yes, the revolt happened but as you may already know - not much goes as planned when freedom is the supposed outcome. 

⚡️

I don’t know why this book was on my TBR for so long. I can honestly say this would be a book that I wish I could reread for the first time. I love a good revolt slave narrative with spiritualism weaved throughout. 

Any other recommendations of books that are similar to this one, please share. Also, have you read anything else by Marlon James? 




Expand filter menu Content Warnings