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A review by emmaj_xo
The Thorns Remain by J.J.A. Harwood
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
This was an enjoyable, quick read but the strengths of the book lied in the mundane. Simply put - the historical elements and characterisation were a strong highlight, though some of the dialogue read a little clumsy to me at times.
I did enjoy the dedication to weave in creatures from Scottish folklore, though some were woven into the plot better than others. Others were mentioned in passing but didn’t have any particular role in the story so their inclusion felt a little cluttered.
When I picked up this book, the blurb and quotes from reviews seemed to indicate there would be a Romance plot, but that seems to be lacking. There is certainly mention of past loves, and sentiments are expressed or thought - but a love story doesn’t develop. I would avoid if that’s what piqued your interest in this book. In fact, without giving too much away, I was glad the Romance I thought was being hinted at didn’t happen because it made me feel uneasy. In the end that worked for the direction of the story, but it would have been disappointing if it’s what I had been seeking.
Overall, an enjoyable historical fantasy steeped in Scottish Fairy Folkore, though it perhaps fell too short in a few of areas for my tastes.
I did enjoy the dedication to weave in creatures from Scottish folklore, though some were woven into the plot better than others. Others were mentioned in passing but didn’t have any particular role in the story so their inclusion felt a little cluttered.
When I picked up this book, the blurb and quotes from reviews seemed to indicate there would be a Romance plot, but that seems to be lacking. There is certainly mention of past loves, and sentiments are expressed or thought - but a love story doesn’t develop. I would avoid if that’s what piqued your interest in this book. In fact, without giving too much away, I was glad the Romance I thought was being hinted at didn’t happen because it made me feel uneasy. In the end that worked for the direction of the story, but it would have been disappointing if it’s what I had been seeking.
Overall, an enjoyable historical fantasy steeped in Scottish Fairy Folkore, though it perhaps fell too short in a few of areas for my tastes.