Reviews with content warning for Sexual violence - Tess of the d'Urbervilles

Reviews tagging 'Sexual violence'

Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy

9 reviews

fbarros's review against another edition

4.25

Tess is one of the most frustratingly tragic characters I’ve come across. Every decision she makes seems to dig her deeper into trouble. She's constantly surrounded by some of the worst, most manipulative people imaginable that take advantage of her innocence at all costs. It’s painful to see her ignore her gut and sacrifice herself, trying to please her family and secure a better life for her siblings.

I absolutely hate Alec. Actually, I hate most of the men in this book. Even her husband, Angel—who knows nothing's Tess’s fault—abandons her when she needs him the most. It's infuriating. But the women? The women are powerful, complicated, and resilient in their own ways.

My only real complaint is the length. It felt too long, dragging at points where it didn’t need to. Still, it’s a heartbreaking, emotional ride that’s going to stick with me.

Everything about this book is infuriating, sad, and depressing, and honestly... it’s a lot to take in.

PS: A random part of the book that hit me harder than expected was the death of the horse. It shouldn't have, but it reminded me of my own mare who passed away last year. 😭

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yejide's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional informative inspiring sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

I'm only giving it 2 stars because if the TRAUMA this book has now put me through. Yes, I know it's social commentary but i don't give a rat's ass because Hardy was foul for this one. Tess never gets a break. the 2 stars are for Tess and Sorrow alone.

Angel should have stayed in Brazil and never came back icl

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stephanieanneauthor's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional sad slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I remember the first time I ever heard my dad mention this book. He said it was awful because of the way poor Tess was treated. Horrible things kept happening to her, which made this book depressing to read. Boy was he right. Despite the way that I did enjoy the book, it was truly heartbreaking. Even though I went into this expecting to be depressed, the story still broke my heart. I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs (which was not advisable since I listened to the audiobook on the bus). But that just goes to show how well written this frustrating tale of suffering and double standards is.
(On that note, I really wish Angel had suffered much, MUCH more).

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