Her best friend Charm is intent on making Zinnia's last birthday special with a full sleeping beauty experience, complete with a tower and a spinning wheel. But when Zinnia pricks her finger, something strange and unexpected happens, and she finds herself falling through worlds, with another sleeping beauty, just as desperate to escape her fate.
A Spindle Splintered by Alix E. Harrow is a retelling of the classic fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty with a feminist twist. The novel follows Zinnia, a young woman who is cursed to prick her finger on a spindle and fall into a deep sleep. However, instead of waiting for a prince to come and rescue her, Zinnia decides to take matters into her own hands and sets out to break the curse herself.
One of the strengths of the book is its portrayal of strong and complex female characters. Zinnia is a determined and resourceful protagonist who defies gender norms and refuses to be a passive victim. The other female characters in the book are equally well-developed and add depth to the story.
The writing style is also a highlight of the book. Harrow's prose is lyrical and vivid, creating a rich and immersive world that is both magical and gritty. The book is also peppered with subtle nods to the original fairy tale, which will delight fans of the genre.
However, the book does have some weaknesses. The plot can be slow-moving at times, and some of the twists and turns feel predictable. The romance subplot also feels somewhat underdeveloped and rushed.
Overall, A Spindle Splintered is a well-written and engaging retelling of a classic fairy tale that puts female agency and empowerment at the forefront. While it may not be perfect, it is definitely worth a read for fans of the genre.
No comments:
Post a Comment