Who Would Like This Book:
If you love urban fantasy, especially stories rooted in Celtic myth (think faeries, phoukas, and the enchanted clash of Seelie vs. Unseelie Courts), "War for the Oaks" is a genre-defining must-read. Emma Bull nails the gritty charm of 1980s Minneapolis, weaving together supernatural intrigue and the authentic hustle of a rock band trying to make it big. The music pulse, the charmingly retro fashion, and a cast of charismatic, flawed characters - especially the witty, unpredictable Phouka - make this an absolute treat. It's perfect for fans of Holly Black, Charles de Lint, or anyone who digs tales where magic seeps into the everyday, especially if you vibe with band life or urban settings that feel alive.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers find the book dated, with its frequent nods to '80s style, music, and cultural references - plus a heavy side of rock band life that might not resonate if music scenes aren’t your thing. The detailed band rehearsal scenes and song lyrics can be a bit much for non-musicians. Others wished for deeper world-building around Faerie lore or found the romantic subplot either too predictable or a touch cheesy. If you’re looking for fast-paced action, super-dark fae, or modern attitudes throughout, this might not be your jam.
About:
'War for the Oaks' by Emma Bull is an urban fantasy novel set in Minneapolis that follows Eddi, a rock musician who gets entangled in a faerie war. The story revolves around Eddi's journey as she navigates the war between the Seelie and Unseelie courts, forming relationships with various faerie beings and discovering the magical ways she can use her musical talent. The book combines elements of music, magic, and faerie lore, creating a unique and engaging narrative that captures the reader's imagination.
The writing style of 'War for the Oaks' is often praised for its ability to seamlessly blend the mundane with the magical. Emma Bull's storytelling is described as elegant and haunting, drawing readers into a world where rock and roll performers coexist with the faerie realm. The book is noted for its well-developed characters, particularly Eddi, and the way it slowly draws readers into the story until they are unable to put it down.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of casual racism and some violence in the context of the faerie war.
Has Romance?
The romance is an essential subplot and holds a significant place within the narrative.
From The Publisher:
Acclaimed by critics and readers on its first publication in 1987, winner of the Locus Award for Best First Novel, Emma Bull's War for the Oaks is one of the novels that has defined modern urban fantasy.
Eddi McCandry sings rock and roll. But her boyfriend just dumped her, her band just broke up, and life could hardly be worse. Then, walking home through downtown Minneapolis on a dark night, she finds herself drafted into an invisible war between the faerie folk. Now, more than her own survival is at risk-and her own preferences, musical and personal, are very much beside the point.
By turns tough and lyrical, fabulous and down-to-earth, War for the Oaks is a fantasy novel that's as much about this world as about the other one. It's about real love and loyalty, about real music and musicians, about false glamour and true art. It will change the way you hear and see your own daily life.
Ratings (16)
Incredible (3) | |
Loved It (5) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (4) | |
Did Not Like (1) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (52):
Read It (18) | |
Want To Read (24) | |
Not Interested (10) |
2 comment(s)
From the little I remember of it, it was terribly predictable. I spent most of my time just waiting for what I knew would happen to happen.
A spotify playlist of the songs mentioned in this book:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6HpkU12QoDxXThR4GxhC2M?si=QDkGyTFZSy6iQIKHeXAgIg & utm_source=copy-link
I think this might be the best book I've ever read. It's contemplative and romantic and punky. The thematic equivalent of mixing 80's rocknroll and Celtic folk music, just like the playlist.
What can you read after
War for the Oaks?
About the Author:
Emma Bull was born in 1954 in Torrance, California. She now lives in Minneapolis and is also the author of Finder and Bone Dance.
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