Reviews

Deep Roots, by Ruthanna Emrys

fancypython's review

4.0

An enjoyable sequel to Winter Tide with new complications and new antagonists. Looking forward to reading more in this universe!

kwugirl's review

3.0

I never felt that wrapped up in this story, but I've never been especially into the Lovecraft mythos. The poor choice(s) by the main character were a little loudly telegraphed. It's well done for what it is, though, especially with the diversity of the cast.

devrose's review against another edition

mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

3.0

I didn't like this book as much as I liked Winter Tide, but I can't quite put my finger on why. It's definitely not one I'm going to go out and buy.

tyrshand's review

4.0

Emrys continues to write beautifully about a diverse cast of characters and cosmic horrors that are much more "human" than we'd expect from their appearance. I loved and the exploration of what an "I'm right" -- with no room for discussion -- type group mentality can do and the problems they can generate. Really, Emrys explores the mental states of so many different kinds of people and how those can clash or meld so well. I think she may write the most nuanced characters I've read in fantasy recently. Once again, the story is slower than some may like, but I actually count that a strength of the novel. The pacing allows the relationships to be explored thoroughly, and I think that's exactly what makes these novels so good. I dearly hope the series continues for a long while.

mmichellemoore's review

5.0

Great follow up to Winter Tide. I forgot how much I love these books and now I'm sad because it looks like there are only two. More, please!

heidipolkissa82's review against another edition

challenging hopeful mysterious reflective medium-paced

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

4.0

blitzjess's review

adventurous challenging emotional mysterious reflective slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

dani_k's review

4.0

I just want to be part of Aphra’s weird, cute little found family.

onceandfuturelaura's review against another edition

3.0

I liked a lot of this. HPL saw through his homophobic racism dimly. Beyond the firelight there is something eldritch and transcendent. But my god, coincidence favors the Deep Ones in a way that occasionally took me right out of the story.

crow_toes's review against another edition

4.0

Following Winter Tide, Deep Roots is a continuation of a quieter exploration of Lovecraft’s Mythos, drawing it away from the source’s xenophobia. Instead, Deep Ones, Outer Ones, ghouls, and more all have their space as nuanced characters. 

I really enjoyed that this book pushed further into the magic, dream walking, and tentacled horrors - all while exploring legacy, impermanence, and finding one’s place in the universe. Absolutely a fascinating world to immerse in.