A Forgery of Roses

A deliciously twisted gothic fantasy you'll want to read again and again, with characters you'll adore, prose that'll spellbind you, romance you'll swoon over, and a mystery that'll keep you guessing until the last stunning twist.

Unraveling the Thorns

Jessica S. Olson's "A Forgery of Roses" presents a captivating premise marred by uneven execution, leaving readers torn between intrigue and frustration. Set in a world where artistry holds magical potential, the novel follows Myra Whitlock, a portraitist with the ability to alter reality through her paintings. When she is coerced into resurrecting the deceased son of the governor's wife, Myra uncovers layers of deceit and danger lurking beneath the surface of her society.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its exploration of themes surrounding disability, ableism, and anxiety. Olson's portrayal of Myra's sister, Lucy, adds depth to the narrative, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. However, the characterization occasionally falters, as seen in Myra's description of Lucy as a "walking corpse," a jarring portrayal that detracts from the otherwise nuanced depiction of disability.

The magic system in "A Forgery of Roses" offers a refreshing take on the fantasy genre, blending artistry with mysticism to create a world brimming with potential. Olson's imaginative concept adds depth to the narrative, inviting readers into a realm where creativity holds transformative power. Despite this, the novel grapples with pacing issues, with a slow start giving way to a rushed and convoluted plot progression.

While the romance between Myra and August provides moments of warmth and tenderness, it succumbs to familiar tropes such as insta-love and love triangles. These clichés detract from the authenticity of the relationship, undermining its emotional impact and leaving readers longing for more nuanced character dynamics.

Furthermore, "A Forgery of Roses" suffers from inconsistent world-building and narrative cohesion, with discrepancies in language and setting hindering immersion. The novel's unclear time period and anachronistic elements detract from the reader's ability to fully engage with the story, resulting in a disjointed reading experience.

In conclusion, "A Forgery of Roses" presents a promising premise overshadowed by narrative shortcomings and thematic inconsistencies. While the novel offers moments of intrigue and imagination, its uneven execution ultimately undermines its potential. Despite its flaws, fans of young adult fantasy may find enjoyment in Olson's imaginative world-building and thematic exploration.