Less description on a surface level and deeper characterisation would have provided greater scope for complexity in the narrative that would have elevated the novel. Whereas metaphorical language should offer deeper revelation, at times, it does read here as excessively ornamental where style is prioritised over substance. The novel focuses on the pregnant Lisbeth, and the women closest to her, as the repercussions of this frenzy impact upon them in myriad ways as they are pushed to the limits of endurance.Īn award-winning poet, the author leans heavily into her poetic instincts on the page in order to produce rich prose that some readers will luxuriate in. Set in Strasbourg, in 1518, the fiction is inspired by a dancing plague which historical accounts suggest sent the city into a mania for three months of relentless dancing in the streets. Following in hot pursuit now is her second foray into historical fiction, The Dance Tree, and fans of the first will recognise much of what they enjoyed appearing in this sophomore work. Perhaps still better known for her hugely popular children’s books, Milwood Hargrave’s debut for adults, The Mercies, was nonetheless an instant bestseller that scooped up several prestigious awards when it was published in 2020.
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