A review by kiddisafailure
A Sicilian Romance by Ann Radcliffe

dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Among the classic gothic novels I have read I find A Sicilian Romance to be one of the more accessible and fun reads. The plot of the book moves by very quickly and there is very few instances where something is not happen. It was easy to keep reading because nearly every chapter left you at a point where you wanted to know what happened next, especially the later half. While I do not find the characters likeable or dislikeable they are engaging enough, but the constant shift in focus between them can be jarring at time and make events difficult to follow. The mystery of this story is also well executed and the acute detail to scenery really adds to the ambiance and can even make readers nervous about what it around the corner.

With that all being said, this book is lacking in believable explanations and decent character development that can definitely turn a reader away. However, I do not think that was the point of the novel n fairness, but if you have problems with those two things it will likely be a big deal to you. For me, I could still find enjoyment in the text regardless, but not so much that it left an impact on me or that I could even see myself revisiting.