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shytahura 's review for:
Winterkeep
by Kristin Cashore
The best book in the Graceling series. Fire took a fascinating protagonist and thrust her into the dullest possible political plot with too many characters, Bitterblue was much more satisfying of a mystery but still dragged ON. Cashore has finally gotten the editor I wish she had for these books because Winterkeep is nonstop intrigue, whether fun or distressing. The inclusion of such fantastical animals was really endearing, and while some might have guessed the plot twists I was on the edge of my seat with some of the misdirection and close calls. I will say I absolutely hated the use of the word “kittens” in this book and did not find it cute or funny, just corny, but that’s pretty much the only issue. Themes seem even darker and more mature, which is something considering the plot points brought up in Graceling and Bitterblue, but it seems to delve into abuse, sex, etc in more detail.
Some points brought up in the more critical reviews - I’m always shocked people see fantasy animals as a childish thing. I want my fantasy worlds to remain fantastical even as an adult?
Second, the idea that Lovisa glorified casual sex to the point of exploitation without consequence is… quite superficial. She does experience consequences for using sex as a mindless distraction. She repeatedly asks herself “what’s wrong with me” and why she isnt able to experience sex like other people, but only uses it as a tool. If anything I think it makes her budding and chaste crush on [insert character here] all the more compelling in contrast.
Some points brought up in the more critical reviews - I’m always shocked people see fantasy animals as a childish thing. I want my fantasy worlds to remain fantastical even as an adult?
Second, the idea that Lovisa glorified casual sex to the point of exploitation without consequence is… quite superficial. She does experience consequences for using sex as a mindless distraction. She repeatedly asks herself “what’s wrong with me” and why she isnt able to experience sex like other people, but only uses it as a tool. If anything I think it makes her budding and chaste crush on [insert character here] all the more compelling in contrast.