A review by contre_qui
The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

1.5

It was fine. I was just expecting more. The view of queer/mlm relationships was bizarre to say the least. I thought the protagonist would maybe learn something about her views - and she kinda did, in that she decided being gay wasn't an outright sin - but she really didn't. It seemed more like a vehicle for her to make excuses about her own piety (or lack thereof) and extramarital relationships. There was also a disgustingly awkward, graphic sex scene. It was a rather dry book with a very odd take on queerness. Left a bad taste in my mouth. Clearly a book for straight women.

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