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A review by mattybw
The Power of the Dog by Thomas Savage
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.75
Book 1 of 2024
The Power of the Dog was a Christmas present from my Mum after I asked for some surprise books I wouldn't usually read. My friend Jonas (IG: @jonahreads) recommended this on his book Insta page as a 10/10 book, and so my Mum bought it without knowing anything more about it.
I loved reading this! I felt super smart reading it as well (lol) as it's not the usual kind of novel I read - more aimed at an adult audience than the usual LGBTQIA+ YA that my reading diet usually consists of. I also usually struggle with immersing myself in historical fiction, especially if the writing style is slightly archaic - it takes me longer to understand what the author is trying to convey properly, and so I get more restless. Because I managed to overcome both of these points (or rather thanks to this), I felt rewarded with this stunning and descriptive portrait of how themes like society, homosexuality and family could manifest themselves in early-20th century America.
My only bémol was the pace, but I think this was probably simply a personal taste, and I understand how this probably added to the intrigue and the character development.
I would firmly recommend this book to everyone - especially as I enjoyed it so much for a book I wouldn't usually read!
I loved reading this! I felt super smart reading it as well (lol) as it's not the usual kind of novel I read - more aimed at an adult audience than the usual LGBTQIA+ YA that my reading diet usually consists of. I also usually struggle with immersing myself in historical fiction, especially if the writing style is slightly archaic - it takes me longer to understand what the author is trying to convey properly, and so I get more restless. Because I managed to overcome both of these points (or rather thanks to this), I felt rewarded with this stunning and descriptive portrait of how themes like society, homosexuality and family could manifest themselves in early-20th century America.
My only bémol was the pace, but I think this was probably simply a personal taste, and I understand how this probably added to the intrigue and the character development.
I would firmly recommend this book to everyone - especially as I enjoyed it so much for a book I wouldn't usually read!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia and Suicide
Moderate: Alcoholism and Murder