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A review by selectedfictions
A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske
3.75
There was so much I enjoyed about this book. I loved the early twentieth century setting and the way that the human and the magic world was established. I particularly loved the connection between the land and the magic wielders living upon it, which I thought was a brilliant touch.
The LGBTQ rep was brilliant and handled so well, while acknowledging the societal constraints and prejudice of the time.
I keep going back and forth on whether I like Edwin. He was odd, weird and difficult but I enjoyed that about a MC, but might put others off. I liked how he wasn't naturally an all powerful wizard, who had to work hard at what he could do. I think him and Robin were extremely unlikely allies and lovers, and I wasn't fully convinced by their relationship, which is what knocks this down a star for me. I think the magic was quite complicated and a little inaccessible, especially to those who perhaps only dabble in fantasy.
I liked how Marske explored concepts of toxic masculinity and patriarchy within a fantasy context. So much of what is covered and explored here, such as Edwin's preference for quiet and learning, are still applicable today.
Overall, I think this was a really ambitious book with lots of gorgeous, period details and rich characters and I'll definitely be reading book 2.
The LGBTQ rep was brilliant and handled so well, while acknowledging the societal constraints and prejudice of the time.
I keep going back and forth on whether I like Edwin. He was odd, weird and difficult but I enjoyed that about a MC, but might put others off. I liked how he wasn't naturally an all powerful wizard, who had to work hard at what he could do. I think him and Robin were extremely unlikely allies and lovers, and I wasn't fully convinced by their relationship, which is what knocks this down a star for me. I think the magic was quite complicated and a little inaccessible, especially to those who perhaps only dabble in fantasy.
I liked how Marske explored concepts of toxic masculinity and patriarchy within a fantasy context. So much of what is covered and explored here, such as Edwin's preference for quiet and learning, are still applicable today.
Overall, I think this was a really ambitious book with lots of gorgeous, period details and rich characters and I'll definitely be reading book 2.