Uptown Oracle Reads… Unraveller by Frances Hardinge

Delve into Frances Hardinge’s captivating novel Unraveller, where complex characters and intricate plots weave a compelling tapestry of mystery and magic. This review will explore the depths of Kellen and Nettle’s adventures, revealing the allure of a world where curses are as common as the conflicts they cause, and how the interplay of duty, power, and personal growth crafts a narrative that resonates deeply with readers seeking a rich, imaginative experience.

Unraveller by Frances Hardinge

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In a world where anyone can create a life-destroying curse, only one person has the power to unravel them.

Kellen does not fully understand his talent, but helps those transformed maliciously—including Nettle. Recovered from entrapment in bird form, she is now his constant companion and closest ally.

But Kellen has also been cursed, and unless he and Nettle can remove his curse, Kellen is in danger of unravelling everything—and everyone—around him . . .

Frances Hardinge’s characters in Unraveller are not only complex but also vividly real, filled with depth and contradictions that make them both relatable and intriguing. Kellen, the protagonist, possesses the rare ability to unravel curses, a gift that makes him both a saviour and a target in a world rife with resentment and hatred. His journey is marked by a strong sense of duty and the heavy burden of his power, as he navigates the moral complexities of his role. Kellen’s internal struggles and his evolving understanding of his gift provide a compelling emotional core to the story.

Nettle, who accompanies Kellen, is equally fascinating. Rescued by Kellen from her own curse, Nettle’s loyalty and resilience are her defining traits. Her character provides a crucial counterbalance to Kellen’s impulsiveness, offering a steady, thoughtful presence that grounds their partnership. Nettle’s backstory, involving the tragic curse placed on her and her siblings by their stepmother, adds layers of emotional depth and tragedy to her character. Throughout the novel, Nettle’s growth and her grappling with her past trauma are poignantly portrayed, making her journey as compelling as Kellen’s.

The supporting characters in Unraveller are richly drawn and contribute significantly to the story’s depth. From the enigmatic marsh horse and its rider to the various cursed individuals Kellen and Nettle encounter, each character is unique and memorable. Hardinge excels at creating morally ambiguous characters, where even the villains have understandable motivations. This complexity ensures that the reader is constantly engaged, questioning and empathising with the characters’ choices and actions. The diverse cast of characters, each with their own distinct personalities and backstories, adds richness and variety to the narrative.

Unraveller is a densely woven tapestry of interconnected plots and subplots, each contributing to a larger narrative that never loses its momentum. The story is set in the fantastical country of Raddith, where curses are a common occurrence, thanks to the malevolent influence of spider-like creatures known as the Little Brothers. Kellen’s ability to unravel these curses places him at the centre of a complex web of intrigue, where every unravelling reveals deeper layers of conflict and conspiracy.

The central plot follows Kellen and Nettle as they embark on a quest to uncover the source of a dangerous conspiracy. Their journey takes them across various terrains and through numerous challenges, each quest revealing more about the nature of curses and the people affected by them. The narrative is intricately plotted, with each curse unravelling serving as both a standalone story and a piece of the larger puzzle. This structure keeps the reader constantly engaged, as new mysteries and revelations unfold with each chapter.

Underlying the action-packed plot are deeper themes of friendship, responsibility, and the moral complexities of power. The story delves into the distinctions between anger and hate, the importance of questioning assumptions, and the heavy burden of guilt. As Kellen and Nettle navigate these themes, they encounter characters with diverse and often conflicting perspectives, challenging them to think critically about their own beliefs and actions. The plot’s complexity and thematic depth make Unraveller a rich and rewarding read that offers much more than a simple fantasy adventure.

Frances Hardinge’s writing style in Unraveller is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance. Her prose is precise and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the fantastical world of Raddith without ever resorting to heavy-handed exposition. Hardinge’s language is more focused and streamlined in this novel compared to her previous works, maintaining an intense pace that drives the plot forward. Despite the rapid progression, the writing never feels rushed, and each sentence is crafted with care, contributing to the story’s rich atmosphere.

One of Hardinge’s greatest strengths is her ability to trust her readers. She presents complex ideas and themes without oversimplifying them, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. This trust in the reader’s intelligence is evident in her handling of the story’s moral ambiguities and intricate plot twists. Hardinge’s writing is layered with meaning, and her skillful use of metaphor and simile adds depth to the narrative. Her descriptions are particularly striking, whether she’s depicting the lush, eerie landscapes of Raddith or the intricate details of a curse unravelling.

The dialogue in Unraveller is sharp and authentic, capturing the distinct voices of each character. Hardinge excels at showing rather than telling, using dialogue and action to reveal character traits and advance the plot. This approach makes the interactions between characters feel natural and engaging. The writing is also notable for its emotional resonance; Hardinge deftly explores themes of trauma, guilt, and redemption, creating moments of genuine poignancy that linger long after the book is finished. Overall, her writing style in Unraveller is both sophisticated and accessible, making it a joy to read.

Unraveller explores a wide range of themes, each woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story. One of the central themes is the complex relationship between anger and hate. Through Kellen’s journey, Hardinge examines how these emotions can drive people to destructive actions and how understanding and empathy can help mitigate their effects. The distinction between anger and hate is crucial in a world where curses are born from intense negative emotions, and Kellen’s ability to unravel curses becomes a metaphor for healing and forgiveness.

Another significant theme is the importance of questioning assumptions and thinking for oneself. The characters in Unraveller are frequently challenged to reevaluate their beliefs and consider different perspectives. This theme is particularly relevant in the context of the curses, where understanding the curser’s motivations is essential to unravelling the curse. Hardinge emphasises the value of empathy and the need to look beyond surface appearances to understand the deeper truths of a situation.

The novel also addresses the theme of trauma and its long-lasting impact. Many characters, including Kellen and Nettle, have experienced profound trauma due to curses, and their struggles to cope with these experiences are depicted with sensitivity and depth. Hardinge explores how trauma shapes individuals and influences their actions, and the varying ways people deal with their pain. The theme of trauma is intertwined with the broader themes of guilt and redemption, as characters seek to come to terms with their pasts and find a path forward.

Unraveller is a standout in the young adult fantasy genre, but its appeal extends beyond typical genre boundaries. While marketed as young adult fiction, the novel’s complex themes, sophisticated writing, and intricate plot make it equally suitable for adult readers. The fantasy elements are rich and imaginative, with a unique magic system involving curses bestowed by spider-like creatures. This originality in world-building sets Unraveller apart from other fantasy novels and adds a fresh perspective to the genre.

The book also incorporates elements of detective fiction, with Kellen and Nettle solving mysteries and uncovering conspiracies. This blend of fantasy and mystery adds an additional layer of intrigue to the story, keeping readers engaged as they follow the protagonists’ investigations. The novel’s structure, with its episodic unravelling of curses and overarching conspiracy plot, provides a dynamic and engaging narrative that fits well within the fantasy genre while also offering something new and exciting.

Furthermore, Unraveller avoids some of the common tropes of young adult fiction, such as romance-driven plots, focusing instead on the strength of its story and characters. This approach makes the novel appealing to readers who appreciate complex, character-driven narratives. The book’s exploration of deep themes such as trauma, guilt, and the moral complexities of power adds to its genre-defying quality, making it a rich and rewarding read for a broad audience.

Overall, Unraveller is a masterfully crafted novel that showcases Frances Hardinge’s exceptional talent as a writer. The characters are deeply nuanced, the plot is intricate and engaging, and the writing style is both sophisticated and accessible. The novel’s exploration of complex themes such as anger, hate, trauma, and empathy adds depth to the story, making it much more than a simple fantasy adventure.

Despite some issues about the pacing and character development in certain sections, Unraveller stands out for its creativity, atmosphere, and engaging narrative. Hardinge’s ability to create vivid, fully fleshed-out worlds and her trust in the reader’s intelligence make this a standout work in the fantasy genre. The novel’s blend of fantasy, mystery, and psychological depth ensures that it will appeal to a wide range of readers, from young adults to adults who appreciate thoughtful, well-crafted stories.

I would rate Unraveller 4.5 stars, acknowledging its minor flaws but celebrating its many strengths and the enjoyment it provides. This is a book that will linger in the reader’s mind long after the final page, offering a richly rewarding reading experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Frances Hardinge has once again proven her mastery of the fantasy genre, and Unraveller is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

Positives of Unraveller

• Deeply complex and relatable characters, particularly Kellen and Nettle.
• Intricately woven plot that combines elements of fantasy and mystery.
• Rich world-building that immerses readers in a unique magical system.
• Themes that explore significant issues like trauma, guilt, and the moral complexities of power.
• Hardinge’s evocative prose that enhances the gothic and fantastical elements of the story.

Negatives of Unraveller

• Some pacing issues, particularly in the middle sections where the story may feel slow.
• Character development can feel uneven at times, with some secondary characters lacking depth.

Unraveller by Frances Hardinge stands as a testament to the power of fantasy literature to challenge and charm. It’s a book that not only entertains but also invites reflection on deeper themes, making it a significant addition to the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Hardinge or new to her work, Unraveller promises a journey that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking, making it a must-read for those who cherish tales where the fantastical meets the profound.

I received Unraveller by Frances Hardinge from the publisher. This is an unbiased and honest review

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