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tianabooks's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
"A woman had to be ruthless in defence of herself."
What a read. Admittedly, I am not one to often visit historical fiction books, yet I am positive this book and its characters will stay with me for a long time. Easily, one of the best books I've read this year already. I can see how it may appear to be a tedious read, as it's historically heavy and quite a long book, but I can guarantee you won't be disappointed by the end.
Historically, you can see the research and care that went into the writing of this. Laura Shepherd-Robinson is a new to me author but I'm so impressed that I will be automatically picking up any other books. There is another book, Blood & Sugar, which is supposed to be the prequel of this one and I intend to read that soon. Daughters of Night is not only an honest and unapologetic canvas of the Georgian Era but it is also an ode to the female experience of the time. Despite the imposing male characters, it is the women that shine the brightest; the ones that keep you at the edge of your seat. I cannot explain how impressed I was with Caro's character and her journey - emotionally and mentally - she underwent throughout this novel. Standing her ground despite what was imposed on her (due to her gender and position in society) and standing up for those who were more than often dismissed in the eyes of the law and the people.
"It is our tragedy to assume upon our own shoulders responsibility for the misdeeds of men [...] But we should be kinder, I think. To one another, as well as to ourselves."
Masterfully written, with pensive inner thinking and interesting character dynamics. Caro and Child's collaborative work was remarkable and we got to witness a, dare I say, friendship and camaraderie blossoming by the end. Pamela, Lucy, Theresa, Kitty - all wonderful and strong in their own way. All fighting their own battles.
Daughters of Night will keep you guessing until the very last page. It made me write down a clue board and yet, I kept getting surprised. It's so well-crafted. When you think you have the answer, something new appears and you're back to wondering. The way this book ended leaves open the possibility for a continuation of these characters' stories - especially Caro's. I would absolutely devour such a book.
What a read. Admittedly, I am not one to often visit historical fiction books, yet I am positive this book and its characters will stay with me for a long time. Easily, one of the best books I've read this year already. I can see how it may appear to be a tedious read, as it's historically heavy and quite a long book, but I can guarantee you won't be disappointed by the end.
Historically, you can see the research and care that went into the writing of this. Laura Shepherd-Robinson is a new to me author but I'm so impressed that I will be automatically picking up any other books. There is another book, Blood & Sugar, which is supposed to be the prequel of this one and I intend to read that soon. Daughters of Night is not only an honest and unapologetic canvas of the Georgian Era but it is also an ode to the female experience of the time. Despite the imposing male characters, it is the women that shine the brightest; the ones that keep you at the edge of your seat. I cannot explain how impressed I was with Caro's character and her journey - emotionally and mentally - she underwent throughout this novel. Standing her ground despite what was imposed on her (due to her gender and position in society) and standing up for those who were more than often dismissed in the eyes of the law and the people.
"It is our tragedy to assume upon our own shoulders responsibility for the misdeeds of men [...] But we should be kinder, I think. To one another, as well as to ourselves."
Masterfully written, with pensive inner thinking and interesting character dynamics. Caro and Child's collaborative work was remarkable and we got to witness a, dare I say, friendship and camaraderie blossoming by the end. Pamela, Lucy, Theresa, Kitty - all wonderful and strong in their own way. All fighting their own battles.
Daughters of Night will keep you guessing until the very last page. It made me write down a clue board and yet, I kept getting surprised. It's so well-crafted. When you think you have the answer, something new appears and you're back to wondering. The way this book ended leaves open the possibility for a continuation of these characters' stories - especially Caro's. I would absolutely devour such a book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Violence, Trafficking, Abortion, and Murder
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Suicide, Antisemitism, and Alcohol
Minor: Rape, Pregnancy, and Abandonment
in general, a very accurate depiction of Georgian London and the nasty conditions for women.