sampena16's review
5.0
"It was by telling stories that I would save myself."
Another brilliant novel by Kate Forsyth! A fabulous re-telling of Rapunzel - mixed with history, feminism and a dash of magic - Bitter Greens interweaves the story lines of 3 different women: the woman locked in a tall tower yearning to escape, the witch turned courtesan seeking to preserve her beauty, and the French novelist exiled in a convent searching for her corner of the universe where she can be independent. All three women are so relatable and incredibly admirable in their quests to be free - of society, of others' obligations, and even of themselves - their own fears, misgivings and insecurities. I am obsessed with all of Kate Forsyth's fairy tale reimaginings and hope she writes more!
Another brilliant novel by Kate Forsyth! A fabulous re-telling of Rapunzel - mixed with history, feminism and a dash of magic - Bitter Greens interweaves the story lines of 3 different women: the woman locked in a tall tower yearning to escape, the witch turned courtesan seeking to preserve her beauty, and the French novelist exiled in a convent searching for her corner of the universe where she can be independent. All three women are so relatable and incredibly admirable in their quests to be free - of society, of others' obligations, and even of themselves - their own fears, misgivings and insecurities. I am obsessed with all of Kate Forsyth's fairy tale reimaginings and hope she writes more!
cmgmaine's review
dark
sad
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? It's complicated
4.0
lyrrael's review against another edition
4.0
Braids together the tales of French novelist Charlotte-Rose de la Force, a young girl with burnished red hair named Margherita, and the witch who holds her captive. Bitter Greens is a historical fiction cum fairytale retelling of Rapunzel, and it is richly woven together with attention to detail and beautiful prose. I found it a little wearing after a while, but I don’t often have the patience for historical fiction. Either way, I truly enjoyed it and am glad to have read it.
indianajane's review
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. It was a well-written mix of fairytale and historical fiction. The only thing that took away from my enjoyment at all were the too frequent and gratuitous sex scenes.
spiringvenus's review
5.0
This was recommended by the Word Wenches blog. Wow! I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I even bought 2 copies as gifts for friends to read.
jena_33's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
tehani's review against another edition
5.0
Wow, this is a fantastic book. I have always liked Kate Forsyth's work, and particularly her novels for adults, but this blows everything she's done before out of the water! Which is really saying something! A fabulous blend of fantasy and history, gorgeously written with a beautiful twining narrative. Cannot recommend it highly enough!
azlanm's review
5.0
An intriguing take on the story of Rapunzel, as told from the viewpoints of three different women. Kate Forsyth has descriptive and engaging storytelling abilities. I was totally consumed by the story and couldn't put the book down.
direton1's review against another edition
dark
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.75
malglories's review against another edition
4.0
the lushness and luxury of the worlds, the women, and the words in this book captivated me. from 15th century venice, replete with canals and courtesans and carnevale, to 16th century france, the empire of the sun king, with all its intrigue and splendor. charlotte-rose, selena, and margherita all shown with spirit in times which didn’t allow that. i thought the ending was a bit rushed, considering that it dragged in a few places, but all in all this is a pretty book. my friend gifted it to me for christmas.