Review of ‘Deeplight’

Synopsis

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea meets Frankenstein in Frances Hardinge's latest fantasy adventure

The gods are dead. Decades ago, they turned on one another and tore each other apart. Nobody knows why. But are they really gone forever? When 15-year-old Hark finds the still-beating heart of a terrifying deity, he risks everything to keep it out of the hands of smugglers, military scientists, and a secret fanatical cult so that he can use it to save the life of his best friend, Jelt. But with the heart, Jelt gradually and eerily transforms. How long should Hark stay loyal to his friend when he's becoming a monster--and what is Hark willing to sacrifice to save him?

Review

As compelling as the plot of Deeplight is, the characterization is offputting. Jelt is a terrible character, and it is clear that it is intentional. However, reading of him was such a turn-off because he is cruel and manipulative, and horrible. Jelt puts himself first preceding to make Hark feel bad if things do not go according to plan. Hardinge does an excellent job of highlighting just how terrible a toxic relationship can be. Nevertheless, Jelt offers no redeemable characteristics to make him worthwhile to read.

Deeplight Offers Great Growth

Now, that said, the moment Hark stands up to him without backing down, that is a great scene because the reader gets to see e just how much Hark has grown as a person. He learns to appreciate himself and indeed learns much about friendship during his time as an indentured servant because even while he was a servant, they treated him with more respect and kindness than Jelt ever offered him.

Jelt’s ultimate demise is also gratifying. Probably the best part of the novel because it brought out the monster the reader could already see inside of Jelt, the corruption, the malice, the sheer arrogance, and self-centeredness came to life in incredible detail. It is a beautiful scene to witness and one worth reading repeatedly (much like Joffrey’s death in Game of Thrones).

The fantasy is there and written wonderfully. The detail, the mythology and connection to the gods, their beginnings, it was unique and wonderfully defined.

Hardinge writes with a vivid passion, allowing her to create such a brilliant fantasy with long-dead gods. The plane of existence under the sea was also unique. It is interesting to think of gods living below instead of above, creating a sinister edge to the story.

The development of the lore in Deeplight is fantastical, and I wish the book had more of it.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Deeplight is a good book, and there is something to be said about Hardinge’s representation. The fact that one of her best characters is a deaf girl is incredible.

There are not enough books featuring disabled people in strong roles, and here is one. She is a fierce, intelligent character, becoming the snarky friend Hark needs. Her dynamics with Hark are a saving grace for the novel.

There are parts that slow it down a bit to highlight Hark’s ability to grow and escape a toxic relationship. Not always easy, it is important for readers to see that nothing should trap them in an unhealthy relationship. Jelt being the only hindrance to the novel does not stop the story from being compelling.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband and son and their two cats, Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx.