Monday, July 20, 2009

Daughter of the Forest



How is it possible I never put a review of this book on my blog before? I hope you all get a chance to read this sometime in your lifetime. I am not afraid of a long book. Actually, I think I generally enjoy them more, because there is more time to get to know the characters and to watch them develop. This is a very long book, and the first in an excellent series, so just be aware of that before you get started.

As much as I hate to build up a book too much, I just can't help myself with this one. It really is that good. Buy it now or go check it out from your library. 

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier is a retelling of The Six Swans that felt like the original telling. This story comes as close to perfect as a novel can get, for my tastes. A lovely heroine who grows, learns and changes over time; beautiful, poetic writing; epic plot; emotional depth; themes of sacrifice, family bonds, struggle, determination, and romance—all these elements add up to one of the greatest stories ever written. I loved all the characters and was haunted by the ones who never got their happily-ever-afters. I found it utterly enchanting. Beautiful and an absolute favorite.


6 comments:

  1. I'm so glad that you recommended this book to me! I just finished the fourth one this week.

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  2. I just re-read Daughter of the Forest last week--and it was even better. . .if that is possible.

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  3. . . .but please, for those who have not read it, ignore the cover.

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  4. yes, the cover is the only unfortunate bit. i'm thinking of making my own to cover it up.

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  5. I love when you review books, because I need ideas. =)

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  6. I've been reading The Book Thief for about three months. I wonder how long it would take me to get through Daughter of the Forest? :)But when I do need another book, I'll remember this one. I've never disliked a book you recommended.

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