by Madeleine Rose Jones | Nov 18, 2022 | literature
The debate between magical realism and fantasy fiction is ongoing, and frequently, an emotional affair. The late British author Terry Pratchett, responsible for the meritorious Discworld series, captures the conflict: “(magical realism) is a polite way of saying you...
by Madeleine Rose Jones | Dec 28, 2020 | Uncategorized
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke is a disappointing novel that lacks the spellbinding factor of Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell. In this review, I will outline why Piranesi disappointed me. However, I’ll also try to understand why others loved it. Judging by...
by Madeleine Rose Jones | Oct 19, 2020 | General Fiction, History, literature
Can you discuss the fantasy genre without mentioning medieval history? That’s unlikely, particularly in a Western context. The fantasy genre uses many medieval motifs, ranging from inns and taverns to knights and chivalry. Those familiar with Lord of the Rings,...
by Madeleine Rose Jones | Apr 18, 2020 | General Fiction, literature
I read a lot of reviews on Goodreads and YouTube, from fans in the fantasy and science fiction genre. And there is an emphasis on ‘likeable’ characters. At first glance, this makes sense. The reader is spending time with the characters. It helps that they are...
by Madeleine Rose Jones | Feb 13, 2020 | Book Reviews, literature
For this book review, I will discuss Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones. Like my previous book review on 101 Dalmatians, I will discuss a book that has been overshadowed by a popular film adaptation. Chances are, you know Studio Ghibli’s 2004 film...