A review by bobinsbooknook
The Game of Love and Death by Martha Brockenbrough

emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

“A life with all of its business finished is a life too cautiously lived.”

A beautifully written historic romance which honestly left me feeling a bit emotional in the end! 

I adored the way Martha has created complex characters - particularly the characters of Death and Love. Having ditched the lazy stereotypes you may expect - she has built complex personalities, showing both part kind and cruel as well as the way they interact with one another and the other characters throughout. 

I particularly loved the vulnerability and kindness depicted of death during the chapter in which she decides to take Flora’s Nana and finishes her quilt for her.

The various romances and conflicts within this book touching on themes of race and sexuality during 1970’s made it feel very well rounded rather than a one note romance as well as the sprinkle of humour just made it a great overall read.