Tess of the Road
Ratings26
Average rating4.1
Wow, this was quite a ride - or I should better say walk.
Other reviews said that this was a quieter book, one more focused on the main character's growth, her finding herself and her place in the world, and while that's certainly true, there was also a fair amount of action.
This was my first Rachel Hartman book but I will definitely read the Seraphina duology now, even if I kind of spoiled some things for myself. Tess of the Road is, without a doubt, a masterpiece of YA fantasy and I am so glad enough people recommended it for me to pick it up and see for myself.
I think I would have enjoyed this book twice as much if it had been half as long.
Not having read any of Ms. Hartman's previous books, I was probably at a disadvantage and it took me ages to really get into the story. Once I did, I felt like there was just too much going on and it distracted me from actually enjoying myself. For longtime fans, I suspect this will more than satisfy.
Thank you to Penguin/Random House for the free copy for review.
Have you ever picked up a book and just known it was going to change your life? That might be a little bit dramatic, but that's how I felt when I got this book from the library. I don't even know where to begin, this book was everything. Tess is so endearing and broken and flawed, but you can't help loving her instantly. Her journey is slow and not a lot happens, but at the same time SO much happens. Being able to trace her path of healing and self-discovery is so so moving. Am I crying while writing this review? Maybe. The discussion of self-guilt brought on by the abuse and expectations of religion and family is so profound. Idk what else to say but if you are looking for a heartwarming book set in a well-developed world with a little bit of fantasy and a whole lotta heart please read this freaking book.
I LOVED this, but those who think this is a conventional quest or adventure story might be disappointed. It is a quest, but ultimately an accidental one around healing and forgiveness of the self. It's very much about guilt and trauma, and how sometimes those two get muddled together.