Need something new to read? Check out this book review by Kelli of The Boneless Mercies.
“I was a Mercy-girl with no family, no home, no fortune, and yet my blood sang a song of glory.” ― April Genevieve Tucholke, The Boneless Mercies
This is a fantasy book for ages 13+. The life of a paid mercenary is a good life, for some. It requires skill to kill quickly, quietly, and mercifully. But for Frey, the death trade has become weary and she dreams of bigger things. Her three companions Ovie, Juniper, and Runa agree to join her as she seeks glory by going after a legendary monster, the Blue Vee Beast, in this reimagining tale of Beowulf.
Themes:
- Slaying the dragon
- Women of steel
- Good verses Evil
- Witches and magic
- Resiliency
- Teamwork
- Honor
- Sisterhood
- Death, killing
Accolades:
- Publisher Weekly’s best of 2018
- The B&N Teen Blog’s Favorite YA Books of 2018
- Tor.com Best Young Adult Science Fiction and Fantasy of 2018
- Earphones Award Winner for best audiobook.
- Green Mountain Book Award list 2019-2020
Kelli’s Thoughts:
In this Norse-influenced fantasy world with rich lores, sea witches, magic, and a quest for glory, I found a true saga, with rich dialog, and strong visual imagery. The story moved slowly, even during times of action. There was no rush or hustle, but a plot that inched forward in the way The Hobbit did; step by step, situation after situation, they make their way to the Blue Vee Beast.
The story has a wonderful set of four women, who are not petty or competitive with each other. They lift each other up and we see such tenderness, care, and a very tight sisterhood between these women.
If this book sounds like a book for you, then check it out today! Need more recommendations? Here is a list of similar reads on Goodreads created by other readers!