A review by ellemnope
This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede

adventurous dark tense slow-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? Yes

4.0

An interesting fantasy read with multiple outside influences including mythology and religious folklore. High stakes narrative with a strong female protagonist that has flavors reminiscent of Rebecca Roanhorse's Black Sun and Rory Power's In a Garden Burning Gold. The world building can be a little info dumpy, which results in a diluted atmospheric content, but the plot progression is interesting and tense. Lovers of the grump/sunshine trope will enjoy the character banter between Alessa and Dante. A good exploration of religious fervor and an enjoyable debut.