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A review by kchessrice
Joan by Katherine J. Chen
emotional
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“Before each battle, the foot soldiers, artillerymen, and sappers will bend their heads and call my name. They will say, Joan, give me strength and courage, and I shall hear them, wherever I am. I can never die.”
What a thumping good historical fiction novel! Joan is a character that comes to life as a fully developed character - shaped by her harsh childhood in a small French village during the 100 Years War and becoming the legendary heroic figure (and eventual saint) that we remember today. The narrative is told in a way very similar in style to Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" trilogy; we are with Joan the whole time as though just looking at what is happening from standing in line with her shoulder.
The descriptions of Joan in her shining battle armour and her incredible strength/prowess in battle reminded me of the portrayal of Brienne of Tarth from Game of Thrones! Which then led me to thinking whether George R.R. Martin was inspired to write such a character into his novels by the legend of Joan of Arc.
Going into this novel I had no knowledge of Joan of Arc whatsoever (other than she was French and met a horrible end...) and I don't think that affected my enjoyment of this book at all.
One to pick up if you enjoy historical fiction with a feminist edge, action-packed and pacy storytelling with vivid descriptions of people and place.
TW: Child abuse/animal death/battle injury
What a thumping good historical fiction novel! Joan is a character that comes to life as a fully developed character - shaped by her harsh childhood in a small French village during the 100 Years War and becoming the legendary heroic figure (and eventual saint) that we remember today. The narrative is told in a way very similar in style to Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall" trilogy; we are with Joan the whole time as though just looking at what is happening from standing in line with her shoulder.
The descriptions of Joan in her shining battle armour and her incredible strength/prowess in battle reminded me of the portrayal of Brienne of Tarth from Game of Thrones! Which then led me to thinking whether George R.R. Martin was inspired to write such a character into his novels by the legend of Joan of Arc.
Going into this novel I had no knowledge of Joan of Arc whatsoever (other than she was French and met a horrible end...) and I don't think that affected my enjoyment of this book at all.
One to pick up if you enjoy historical fiction with a feminist edge, action-packed and pacy storytelling with vivid descriptions of people and place.
TW: Child abuse/animal death/battle injury
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Injury/Injury detail, Violence, and Sexual assault