A review by jennieartemis
Banewreaker by Jacqueline Carey
dark
reflective
slow-paced
3.75
TL;DR: An intriguing take on Tolkien material that could do with being a little sharper and more readable
I liked Banewreaker enough by the end, and there are some interesting thoughts in it, but it was certainly not gripping. I got used to the archaic style, although I didn't like it, but there was just so much exposition at the beginning, and too many character perspectives throughout (several of which went nowhere). The narrative can't really decide whether it is a very clear take on Lord of the Rings or more of its own thing, muddying the waters slightly. I'm disappointed at its minimal emphasis on gender, its dubious race politics, and the complete lack of queer elements. But I have some hope that the second part will take the ideas to good places, even if the style is not for me.
6/10 in personal rating system
I liked Banewreaker enough by the end, and there are some interesting thoughts in it, but it was certainly not gripping. I got used to the archaic style, although I didn't like it, but there was just so much exposition at the beginning, and too many character perspectives throughout (several of which went nowhere). The narrative can't really decide whether it is a very clear take on Lord of the Rings or more of its own thing, muddying the waters slightly. I'm disappointed at its minimal emphasis on gender, its dubious race politics, and the complete lack of queer elements. But I have some hope that the second part will take the ideas to good places, even if the style is not for me.
6/10 in personal rating system