This is such an intriguing book in terms of genre, with a mix of historical fiction, dystopias western, adventure, action, romance and fantasy, which makes it sound like a melting pot about to boil over, but it somehow works. For me, this is down to the fact that it reads like no other YA fantasy. The brutality of the world matches the western feel of the whole plot, whereas the touches of romance add a bit of a light touch in an otherwise dark story.
Davis' world-building was really good for me, as it never felt like she was overpowering the reader with information, just drip-feeding it as and when it was needed for the plot. However, I loved the hints and subtle building of this brutal but brilliant world that I hope to explore more in the sequel.
Clementine and Aster have such vivid voices that instantly made me connect with them and rage against their awful situation. I loved Aster as a protagonist who was fiercely protective over her sister, linking perfectly to the strong theme of sisterhood and Her rage was so justified and relatable, making a really refreshing change from some meek and mild protagonists of other books. Aster is from such an awful situation that her rage never felt overzealous and provided meaningful motive to some of her more morally grey actions.
The feminist message of finding strength in sisterhood was something that I particularly loved about this book. Here, the girls fight for and help each other because of genuine care and respect, showing the importance of found family and the brilliance of women uplifting other women. Far too often, women are portrayed as being 'better' because they 'aren't like the other girls', something which this book rips to shreds, showing how we never fully know everyone's inner struggles.
Davis' world-building was really good for me, as it never felt like she was overpowering the reader with information, just drip-feeding it as and when it was needed for the plot. However, I loved the hints and subtle building of this brutal but brilliant world that I hope to explore more in the sequel.
Clementine and Aster have such vivid voices that instantly made me connect with them and rage against their awful situation. I loved Aster as a protagonist who was fiercely protective over her sister, linking perfectly to the strong theme of sisterhood and Her rage was so justified and relatable, making a really refreshing change from some meek and mild protagonists of other books. Aster is from such an awful situation that her rage never felt overzealous and provided meaningful motive to some of her more morally grey actions.
The feminist message of finding strength in sisterhood was something that I particularly loved about this book. Here, the girls fight for and help each other because of genuine care and respect, showing the importance of found family and the brilliance of women uplifting other women. Far too often, women are portrayed as being 'better' because they 'aren't like the other girls', something which this book rips to shreds, showing how we never fully know everyone's inner struggles.