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A review by emelynreads
Isola by Allegra Goodman
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
I love when an author takes a minor mention from a historical record and imagines the fullness of what their life could have been.
So well researched, and well told, though the beginning did drag on a bit and felt predictable. Aside from the first 25% of the book, this is an epic story of survival, faith, and womanhood.
Marguerite is painted fully with flaws and all, and does experience quite a bit of character growth. I only wish there was more of a profound appreciation for her nurse Damienne and stronger realization of her privilege.
So well researched, and well told, though the beginning did drag on a bit and felt predictable. Aside from the first 25% of the book, this is an epic story of survival, faith, and womanhood.
Marguerite is painted fully with flaws and all, and does experience quite a bit of character growth. I only wish there was more of a profound appreciation for her nurse Damienne and stronger realization of her privilege.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Child death, Death, Misogyny, Sexism, Colonisation, Injury/Injury detail, Classism
Moderate: Slavery, Violence, Blood, War