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utopiaandmelancholy's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
I wish I could have read this book without knowing the twist! There was surprisingly less swashbuckling in this than I expected from popular culture surrounding the story, but what I got instead was a good story told from a female perspective which allowed for the twists and turns to be unfolded, rather than experienced directly. The characters felt very vivid (along with the lovely engravings in this edition) and I liked the story so much I've immersed myself in its myriad adaptations since - all of which I enjoyed - which I hope is a sufficient testament to Orczy's story and writing.
Graphic: Antisemitism
Moderate: Death and Violence
Minor: Misogyny and Classism
ilovelucy's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.5
I found this book very enjoyable. While not written quite as well as some of my favorite Jane Austen books, I nonetheless enjoyed the romance between the two main characters. The villain was very hateable which is always a plus, and the excitement of the mystery/adventure was enough to keep me interested, but it was not too action packed to take away from the drama of Marguerite’s relationship. My biggest critique however would be the horrid antisemitism introduced in the third act. It was wholly unnecessary, deeply disturbing, and honestly quite sickening. I would have given this book a 4 if not for that.
Graphic: Antisemitism
Minor: Misogyny
epsyphus's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
Very enjoyable historical romance. I really liked the romance and I find English books that just rag on the French way funnier than I should.
Moderate: Death, Misogyny, Antisemitism, Religious bigotry, and Classism
elenavillan's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Graphic: Antisemitism and Classism
Minor: Misogyny
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