Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers

What a stunning book! Full of dark betrayal, quiet feminism, and daring characters, Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers is a solid 9/10. As a main character, Ismae is brave, unapologetic, and even a little bit vengeful. At a staggering 566 pages, it's not exactly light reading, However, the book never seems to drag on - it's engaging throughout. This book has it all - surprising twists, suspenseful moments, and even a huge range of characters.

To begin my review, I want to discuss the plotline, worldbuilding, and story elements. LaFevers does a great job of introducing the political bits of the story without straight-up explaining it to the reader. There's a good mix of contextual clues, explanations to the main character, and things she overhears. It's sprinkled throughout the story, and LaFevers gives us time to digest how the world is, period. It's set in fifteenth-century Brittany, which sounds daunting, but that's not a huge element itself. It features real history (explained in the author's note) which is a bit watered down and condensed for the purposes of the story. The characters are chosen skillfully, some actually part of history and some not.

Ismae, the main character, is the daughter of Death. This isn't some dramatic metaphor, but 'in actuality', her father is the god of death. It's a bit fuzzy, but I've gathered that there are twelve saints, or gods, and one true God, which is accepted by the Church. Religion itself isn't part of the conflict and rather serves as a backdrop and enrichment of the events. The daughters of Death are raised in a convent to become assassins and carry out Death's bidding. Ismae is one of those handmaidens.

Ismae is sent on her first mission near the beginning of the book, where she accidentally meets Duval. Later, he becomes important as her guide when she's sent out on another mission. It's clear to see a (kind of) enemies-to-lovers storyline plays out. As a character, Ismae has had to deal with trauma - after her mother attempted to kill her in the womb, Ismae survived to her mother's death in childbirth and an abusive father. She is sold to her 'husband', but on her wedding night, she escapes. The book begins at the wedding, and soon cuts to her time at the convent. Ismae, even as a trained killer, has a conscience, and she struggles to convince herself that she is doing the right thing sometimes. As the book progresses, she begins to think for herself more, following the convent's instructions more loosely, and doing what she thinks is right. For example, she begins to be attracted to Duval, and although the convent encourages seduction when necessary for a mission, it doesn't allow personal relationships. (Spoiler) Ismae eventually decides to love Duval, against the convent's wishes, staying true to herself.

Lastly, I want to touch on the other characters. Yes, this book is long, but it never gets boring. With Duval; the rakish, noble, and handsome nobleman, Sybella; Ismae's sister in Death and bravery; the duchess, young, but smart and kind; and even d'Albret, a nasty creep. These characters (and many more!) as well as their reactions made this book worth reading.

To sum up, Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers is completely worth reading and a 9/10. At a hefty 566 pages, it's dense, yes. But it's completely engaging and an incredible read!

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