gdevlin's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This book was a tricky one. The general world building was great and the concept was really interesting. I loved the detailed descriptions of how the people use nature to survive.
However, the writing is very slow and at times is far too descriptive. I found myself skimming sections describing things I felt just didn’t matter.
Also, the rape scenes are completely unnecessary. It followed the typical fantasy trope of rape being a plot device and providing character growth for a woman which I hate. It was incredibly graphic. The behaviour of the clan clearly showed Ayla’s alienation, the raping wasn’t necessary to add on top. It added nothing to the story. I think it’s meant to provide some kind of sexual awakening when she meets Jondalar in the second book and realises that sex is good. But that would be achieved anyway because it could have been ‘no one wanted me and no someone does’.
I also hate that she stops being effected by being literally raped just because she knows she has a child and is happy about it. Really sick
However, the writing is very slow and at times is far too descriptive. I found myself skimming sections describing things I felt just didn’t matter.
Also, the rape scenes are completely unnecessary. It followed the typical fantasy trope of rape being a plot device and providing character growth for a woman which I hate. It was incredibly graphic. The behaviour of the clan clearly showed Ayla’s alienation, the raping wasn’t necessary to add on top. It added nothing to the story. I think it’s meant to provide some kind of sexual awakening when she meets Jondalar in the second book and realises that sex is good. But that would be achieved anyway because it could have been ‘no one wanted me and no someone does’.
I also hate that she stops being effected by being literally raped just because she knows she has a child and is happy about it. Really sick
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Violence, Toxic relationship, Suicidal thoughts, Sexual violence, and Sexism
jmoi's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Abortion, Ableism, Violence, Terminal illness, Suicidal thoughts, Sexual violence, Sexual harassment, Animal death, Blood, Cannibalism, Sexual assault, Sexism, Xenophobia, Animal cruelty, and Bullying
Minor: Grief, Incest, Miscarriage, Physical abuse, Rape, Infertility, Misogyny, Pregnancy, and Racism
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