Priestess
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Edie Finch was living a content life working in the city-state of Eccleston, ten winters estranged from her husband. When the savage land of Tintar invades, she and other women, taking refuge in a chapel, pretend to be sacred priestesses to avoid their certain deaths, fooling an elite group of Tintarian warriors into taking them captive. This is a standalone fantasy with romance and self-discovery about a thirty-eight year old working-class woman who is not a chosen one, princess or warrior. She, using grace and wit, will navigate an invasion and abduction by an enemy army, be dragged halfway across her continent, form a circle of strength with her fellow captives, learn she has a practical sort of magic, be made to marry one of her captors, and uncover ancient mysteries that will save her world.
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Priestess by Kara Voorhees Reynolds is a very compelling standalone (for now?) fantasy novel that intertwines themes of self-discovery, love, and resilience. At its core, it follows Edie (aka Edith) Finch, a 38-year-old working-class woman whose life is upended when her city is invaded, and she and other women are taken captive. Posing as priestesses to survive, they are transported to the magical land of Tintar. The story delves into Edie's growth as she navigates her newfound powers, forms unbreakable bonds with her fellow captives, and confronts ancient mysteries and her self-doubts.
For me, what makes Priestess stand out is its refreshing departure from typical dystopian tropes and its MC maturity. I confess don't have much patience for the nowadays galore of teenage focused fantasy. It celebrates themes of chosen family through the deep friendships between Edie and other women like Helena, Maureen and Mischa. These relationships are beautifully written, offering a heartwarming portrayal of sisterhood and mutual support. Edie herself is a tenacious yet self-doubting protagonist whose maturity and intelligence make her relatable and inspiring. I got so attached to these characters that I think I'll need to revisit them often.
The romance between Edie and her (reluctant, but not so much) husband in the story is a slow-burn delight, balancing tenderness with authenticity. (In terms of spice, I'd rate it 3 in 5.) The story also embraces diverse representations of love, including LGBTQ+ relationships, which are seamlessly integrated into the narrative. In a time like now, with so many challenges... this was lovely to read.
The world-building is rich and immersive, with a thoughtful critique of oppressive religious practices woven into the plot—highlighting themes of freedom and resistance without overshadowing the personal journeys of the characters.
Oh — the villains in Priestess meet oh-so-satisfying ends that feel well-earned within the context of the story. Loved this!
The one notable critique is the book's need for better editing; some sentences are overly complex, which can disrupt the flow of reading.
Overall, Priestess is a great blend of fantasy, romance, and social commentary that leaves a lasting impression. Its mature characters and nuanced storytelling make it a standout in the genre. I'd rate it 4.75 (-0,25 for the needed editing).
