A review by myleejmiller
Weyward by Emilia Hart

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense fast-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? Yes

5.0

In Amelia Hart's debut novel, Weyward, three women across the span of time but belonging to the same bloodline have inherited the same magic: the ability to work with animals and plants, to be welcomed by them. Altha. Violet. Kate. All suffer from the lusts and greed of men in their life, and all wish to escape - but every freedom comes with a sacrifice, one they must decide in their own stories they are willing to pay.

Oh my WORD! I blinked once. I blinked twice - and then I'd finished the book. My word, this was a phenomenal debut. It was a bit confusing at first, and a little bit explanatory rather than "showing" or descriptive, but it worked so well with Hart's voice. I could vividly imagine these women and their stories, the things they suffered seemed so real. Although the finale was a tad predictable, especially through one of the women's perspectives, it was such a powerful and moving story.

I've never considered myself a feminist, but I think this story brings to light a problem many women face: the abuse of men. This is the kind of narrative that people need to hear, to engrain into their bones. A story of power, heartbreak, and strength - what else could you want in a marvelous narrative? I think this easily made it to the top of my "favorites" shelf. I want to read stories like this again and again. Truly, Hart has helped me realize my love for historical fantasy and the tremendous tales that history mixed with the mystic can tell.