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A review by katasaurus
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
2.5 stars for the lovely world building and magic system, 0 for the romance.
I love the “evil forest spreading its contagion” trope, and the main character’s magic was beautiful. Unfortunately, the romance was disturbing and icky. I understand what the author was trying to do with the kind-of fairy tale retelling, but really the relationship was just majorly predatory. Additionally, the plot lagged a lot in the latter half of the book. A lot of content (including all the sexual content) could have been cut with no effect on the story. In fact, it would be vastly improved.
Sadly, despite the beauty I found in Agniezska’s world, I just can’t recommend the book.
I love the “evil forest spreading its contagion” trope, and the main character’s magic was beautiful. Unfortunately, the romance was disturbing and icky. I understand what the author was trying to do with the kind-of fairy tale retelling, but really the relationship was just majorly predatory. Additionally, the plot lagged a lot in the latter half of the book. A lot of content (including all the sexual content) could have been cut with no effect on the story. In fact, it would be vastly improved.
Sadly, despite the beauty I found in Agniezska’s world, I just can’t recommend the book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Gore, Toxic relationship, Violence, Fire/Fire injury, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexual content