Book Review: The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow
Hey, book lovers! Buckle up, because I’m about to dive into The Everlasting, and let me tell you—THIS BOOK IS A WHIRLWIND OF EMOTIONS! I mean, can we get a round of applause for Alix E. Harrow? I’ve been a fan ever since her short story, The Six Deaths of the Saint, but this novel? It’s a masterclass in what Romantasy can and should be! If you’ve ever wished the genre would step up its game from the same old regurgitated plots, this is THE book for you!
First things first—let’s talk structure. Harrow takes the core of her previous work and spins it into something larger-than-life and more intricate. We follow our “cowardly” historian as she travels back in time, tasked with making sure a legendary lady knight remains a stalwart symbol for her kingdom. The time loops are mind-bending yet exhilarating; they’re not just quirks of the plot but serve to ratchet up the tension and excitement. I went in thinking time loops might bore me, but I was completely wrong. Each loop is a chance for growth, change, and discovery—a thrilling ride that kept me on my toes!
Now, the world Harrow builds is classic fantasy reimagined—think epic quests, elusive magic, and delicious villains, all intertwined with deep emotional stakes. What struck me most was her ability to balance brutality with beauty in her prose. I mean, I had moments where a sentence literally took my breath away—like a punch to the heart followed by a throat stab! This is the prose that dares to be both brutal and poetic, and I absolutely loved it.
Let’s not forget about the characters and romance! Owen Mallory and Una Everlasting are a dynamic duo that captures your heart, embodying the complex play of gender roles in such an authentic way. It was refreshing to see Harrow toss traditional stereotypes out the window—watching them dance around their destinies was a delight. And can I just say? The villain is ICONIC. A formidable female antagonist, she’s complexity wrapped in cunning, and I found myself absolutely entranced by her.
When it comes to themes, oh boy, Harrow doesn’t hold back! The Everlasting grapples with the very fabric of storytelling, challenging who gets to tell the narratives we hold dear. In a kingdom like Dominion, history is manipulated into serving those in power, a poignant reflection on how stories can be wielded as weapons. I couldn’t help but think of Churchill’s quote about history being written by the victors while reading this—Harrow takes this concept to levels I had never imagined. It’s a story about breaking cycles, inspired by loyalty to each other rather than to oppressive regimes.
In short, I LOVED this book—it’s enchanting, brutally honest, and surprisingly hilarious in moments. If you’re a fan of romantic fantasy with depth and a hint of the philosophical, you need to pick up The Everlasting and prepare to be amazed. I’d rate it a solid 5 stars, but honestly, it might just deserve even more! Whether you’re a die-hard romantic or a fantasy aficionado, this book will captivate your heart and stir your soul. Get ready for a reading experience that’s both exhilarating and deeply resonant!