Who Would Like This Book:
If you love your fantasy with a hefty dose of darkness, layered worldbuilding, and clever ideas - this one's for you. Frances Hardinge crafts a world where magic stems from raw emotion, curses can literally change lives, and the protagonists, Kellen and Nettle, embark on a journey that's as much about empathy and understanding as it is about magic. There’s shape-shifting, seriously inventive magic, and complex sibling dynamics. Fans of imaginative YA who don’t mind middle grade edges, reluctant romance, and meaningful themes about prejudice, trauma, and self-discovery will feel right at home. Bonus points if you love stories that challenge conventional thinking and have just the right amount of creepy, whimsical undertones.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you prefer fast-paced, action-heavy plots or need to deeply connect with your main characters right away, this story might feel a bit distant or slow for you. Some readers found the pacing a bit uneven, with repetitive curse-unraveling episodes and a narrative that can wander. If you’re looking for explicit romance or prefer your characters crystal clear and emotionally up-close, you may wish for more. The book’s style leans literary and can feel more introspective than immediately engaging for those wanting a quick, plot-driven read.
About:
In the fantasy novel 'Unraveller' by Frances Hardinge, readers are introduced to a world where curses can be unleashed due to intense emotions, leading to the creation of curse eggs. The story follows fifteen-year-old Kellen, who possesses the unique gift of unraveling these curses and helping those who have been afflicted. Alongside his companion Nettle, a former cursed girl, Kellen embarks on a quest to remove a curse that threatens everything around him. Set in the country of Raddith, the narrative unfolds in the Wilds, where creatures gift individuals consumed by rage with curses, ultimately leading to a power struggle against a group of rebellious cursers.
Frances Hardinge's writing style in 'Unraveller' is praised for its flawless world-building, well-realized characters, and immersive storytelling. The book delves into themes of friendship, courage, and the repercussions of hatred and curses, offering readers a unique and original fantasy tale filled with unexpected twists and vividly imagined settings.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book may contain content warnings related to emotional trauma and themes of abuse and curses.
From The Publisher:
Unraveller is a dark YA fantasy about learning to use your power and finding peace, from award-winning author Frances Hardinge.
In a world where anyone can create a life-destroying curse, only one person has the power to unravel them.
Kellen does not fully understand his talent but helps those transformed maliciously-including Nettle. Recovered from entrapment in bird form, she is now his constant companion and closest ally.
But Kellen has also been cursed, and unless he and Nettle can remove his curse, Kellen is in danger of unravelling everything-and everyone-around him . . .
"Brilliantly developed world. Kellen and Nettle are both memorable from their first introduction. As always, Hardinge is masterful at her ability to write poignant, thoughtful passages while also ably developing an expansive fantasy world that is believable and relatable." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (Starred Review)
Ratings (2)
Incredible (1) | |
Loved It (1) |
Reader Stats (7):
Read It (2) | |
Want To Read (5) |
1 comment(s)
I will never stop being blown away by Frances Hardinge. I adored the setting and the characters, and the pacing was tight and riveting. A perfectly strange and beautiful book!
What can you read after
Unraveller?
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
