msrichardsreads89's Reviews (2.64k)

I went into Ruth with high expectations. While this wasn't my favorite Gaskell novel, I did enjoy most of it. Ruth is different from Gaskell's other novels (but honestly all of them are different), and we follow a fallen woman and the consequences that ensue. I did not expect that this novel would be so religious. That being said, I really enjoyed the exploration of hypocrisy within the community and how some people do not practice what they preach and some do. There were some lovely characters in this book that were genuinely kind people and exemplify love thy neighbor. While it did have some parts that I thought were just fine, this novel was heartbreaking and redemptive. 

Another enjoyable read by Charlotte Mary Yonge! We meet the Mohun family in this novel, and they are a delight. Some of the characters' decisions earlier in the novel were painful to read about, but I adored how CMY used those decisions to write fantastic character arcs and development. Her love for the Oxford Movement shines through with her exploration of spirituality and morality. Her exploration of family and sibling relationships are phenomenal! 

I went into this novel with trepidation because I know it is so well loved and that there would be some hard content warnings. However, this was such an amazing fantasy novel! Marillier took the fairytale of the Six Swans and really made it her own. It is vivid, and the writing was lovely. Sorcha is a compelling, strong protagonist, and her journey throughout the novel is beautiful, heartbreaking, and hopeful. The romance was absolutely charming. There is a very graphic scene that was hard to read, so please look up trigger warnings, but I thought it was handled well. I love that each brother has their own personality, and I loved following all the characters in their adventures. Daughter of the Forest is a wonderful tale of family, heartbreak, and endurance, and I cannot recommend it enough!