A review by ilmariel
The Terror by Dan Simmons

slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

1.0

A historical novel used as a bad excuse to air the author's sexism, homophobia and misogyny. The book is full of gratuitous descriptions objectifying women, both white and indigenous. Even the main character, who is supposed to be the one we root for, has atrocious disdain for his wife after she literally saves his life. The only 'good' gays are those who choose celibacy and repent for their 'sin'. And if you're about to tell me that 'that's just what the times were like', please first refer to the TV series based on this book to see how to include all of the above themes AND acknowledge how problematic they are. This book is a disgrace.
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