"Even when the rainbow seems to pass right by me....I'm still finding Gold in the clouds....."

04 August 2018

2018 Book Review #25: Burial Rites


I discovered this author sometime last year when I read The Good People. After seeing Susanne's review on this author's first novel, pictured above, I said I have to get that!  I'm so glad I found it at the library last week!

STORY SUMMARY

Agnes Magnusdottir has been charged with two horrible murders including arson.  Now she has been removed to Iceland's northern shores to live on a remote farm and wait for the execution.  Iceland, in the 19th century, beheaded people.  She will be known as the last woman to be beheaded in that country.

The family who owns the farm doesn't want anything to do with Agnes. Some people think she is a witch.  Her presence disturbs their way of life yet she is a hard worker and soon the oldest daughter, Steina, tries to form a friendship with her.

Toti, an assistant priest, has been assigned to see to Agnes' spiritual development and prepare her for her execution.  He attempts to understand her and begins to just listen as she unravels the story of how she came to be with this man Natan who was brutally murdered.

What is the truth?  

It is soon revealed late one evening when Agnes confides in Margret, the farmer Jon's wife.  Will this new knowledge save Agnes??  

MY THOUGHTS

This is quite a literary work of art.  It is exquisite and painful and deep.

It contains such dramatic effects that at times it took my breath away and left me longing to know more about Iceland and its people.

The character development is flawless.

The setting is rich and vibrant yet stark and lonely.  

It's made me want to out a visit to Iceland on my bucket list!

The author's notes at the end reveal that although this is a work of fiction, it is based on the real Agnes Magnusdottir's life. Many of the characters are real, as well although she did change the names of many.

There is a stone plaque marking the site of the execution and the ruins of Natan's workshop still stand at Illugastodir.  

The pronunciation key at the beginning of the novel was most helpful as many of these words are difficult to pronounce!

You can tell a lot of research has gone into this story.

In my opinion, this novel is appropriate for ages 17 and older (due to mature content/theme).

On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest, I rate this a 10.





1 comment:

Susanne said...

This story really moved me. I'm glad you liked it.