A review by laurenleigh
Empire of Wild by Cherie Dimaline

dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I think this was a rec from @boxcarsewing? So glad I finally got around to it! This was a thrilling take on the rougarou legend. Rougarous are mythical creatures similar to a werewolf, and they’re often used in cautionary tales to inspire obedience and fear, especially for children. So fascinating to see how this plays into the issues indigenous people face in Canada and northern US. Dimaline especially explores the heterogeneity of indigenous groups, and how not everyone agrees what is best (e.g. Should a Native person take a well-paying job to better support their family if it’s at the mines that are destroying their ancestral lands?). The plot pacing was very well-done, and oof that ending really got to me!! Did not see that one coming. Content warning for a fair amount of sexual content, FYI.
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