Review: Nettle & Bone" by T. Kingfisher, 2022

Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Review of "Nettle & Bone" by T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher's "Nettle & Bone" embarks on a magical journey filled with fantastical characters and dark fairy-tale elements. Having been enthralled by Kingfisher's previous title, "What Moves the Dead," my expectations were high, making my experience with this book a mixed bag.

The narrative's initial jumpstart was indeed a bit choppy, an observation similarly noted in other reviews.
The decision to begin mid-adventure and then revert to the origins of Marra's quest was a bit disorienting. Nonetheless, as the story transitioned past the time jump, the plot became more navigable.

Diving into a world where the protagonist has to tackle three
monumental tasks (the exact details of which, unfortunately, didn't leave a lasting impression on me), the pacing maintained a consistent, albeit slow rhythm. This even tempo, while providing room to explore the quirks and peculiarities of the characters, might have contributed to my waning interest as the plot advanced.

Yet, the novel does have its bright spots. Kingfisher's signature touch is evident in the creation of memorable characters. The animated dog and demon chicken, in particular, were delightful additions to the tale. If ever brought to life in illustrations or animation, they'd undoubtedly be the stars! Moreover, the dialogues sprinkled with gentle sarcasm and humor provided intermittent comic relief, making them the highlights of my reading journey.

Despite my affection for certain characters, I can't say the same for the overarching storyline. The plot, while brimming with potential, seemed to meander just a bit too much for my liking. However, fans of slow-burn fantasies and dark fairy tales might appreciate the world that Kingfisher has crafted.

In conclusion, while "Nettle & Bone" boasts intricate world-building and endearing characters, it didn't quite capture the enchantment I was seeking. A 2.25 out of 5 rating encapsulates my sentiments. For those who gravitate towards darker, whimsical fairy tales with a twist, this might just be your next read. But for others like me, who were hoping for a narrative as gripping as "What Moves the Dead," this book might fall a tad short.

#NettleAndBone #TKingfisher #FantasyReview #DarkFairyTales #BookReview #FantasticalJourney #WhimsicalTales #CharacterDriven #SlowBurnFantasy #WhatMovesTheDead #KingfisherBooks #MagicAndMystery #ReadingExperience #BookRecommendations

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Review: What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher, 2022

What Moves the Dead by T. Kingfisher, 2022
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What Moves the Dead, by T. Kingfisher, 2022
I rate the novella 5 out of 5 stars.

 

"What Moves the Dead," is a haunting reimagination of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Fall of the House of Usher." It’s a tale that begins quietly, like a whispering wind rustling through the desolate landscape of the Usher estate, but progressively escalates into a crescendo of horror that is as riveting as it is terrifying.

 

Anchoring this narrative is the non-binary war veteran Alex Easton, an embodiment of representation in the literary world that is long overdue. Easton's character, a lieutenant with a unique set of pronouns (ka/kan), provides an intriguingly fresh perspective, as we delve into the layered complexities of gender identity, trauma, and societal norms. The inclusion of this character alone is a bold stride in the literary world.

 

However, it's not just the compelling characters that make this novella a must-read. The setting itself, with its brooding quietness, feels like an additional character — a silent observer adding to the eerie ambiance. Kingfisher masterfully crafts an environment that is not just a background but a vital participant in the story. It carries a feeling of being simultaneously rooted in the past and existing out of time, adding to the sensation of unease that lingers throughout the narrative.

 

Then there are the fungi — an odd yet fascinating choice that brings an element of the grotesque to the story. For those familiar with apocalyptic narratives such as the "Last of Us" video game series, or the real-world examples of parasitic fungi hijacking ant brains, you'll find a chilling parallel here. However, Kingfisher takes it a step further, intertwining this fungal threat with the zombified hare elements, creating a unique brand of horror that is both intriguing and spine-chilling.

 

As for the ending, it's a fittingly incendiary conclusion to a tale that smolders with quiet intensity. While it does feel a tad rushed, the closure it provides wraps up the narrative neatly, though one can't help but desire a bit more of the fiery, “hare”-raising spectacle.

 

In conclusion, "What Moves the Dead" is a chilling exploration of horror, identity, and the creeping dread of the unseen. It takes a classic tale and breathes new life into it, with a narrative that is as beautiful as it is terrifying.

 

#KingfisherNovella #WhatMovesTheDead #LGBTRepresentation #GothicHorror #MycologicalMystery #TimelessTerror #UnconventionalNarrative #Kingfisher

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