BelEdit Book Reviews
The Sirens is a compelling novel that seamlessly blends magical realism with historical fiction. The story intertwines different timelines and perspectives, revolving around two sets of sisters, one in the 19th century on a penal ship from Ireland to Australia, and one set in the present day. on the Australian coast. The novel explores themes of abuse, resilience and the bonds of sisterhood.
Hart’s writing style is lyrical and evocative, bringing the characters’ inner voices alive and creating a rich and immersive narrative.
The characterisation in The Sirens is one of its strongest aspects. The characters are well-rounded and complex characters, and easy to connect with despite the fantastical elements of the story. The sisters, both historical and contemporary, are portrayed with depth and nuance: their struggles feel real and personal.
The novel’s exploration of sisterhood is moving, woven delicately through the story. The ‘historical’ sisters have a deep and immediate bond, while that of the contemporary sisters is fractured by distance and misunderstandings, but their bond feels strong regardless. The magical realism elements enhance this theme, serving as a metaphor for the intangible and timeless bond between the sisters. The sea itself is a powerful presence in the novel and in the sisters’ lives, at once menacing and offering a place of safety.
Hart’s portrayal of the harsh realities faced by the women in a ship bound for a penal colony is compelling and heart-wrenching. The theme of sisterly bonds is extended here to the bond between the women crammed together into the belly of the ship for months on end, suffering together the disgusting conditions, starvation diet and casual abuse.
I really loved Hart’s last book, Weyward. The Sirens did not sucker-punch me to the same extent. In my review of Weyward, I wrote:
“This book affected me strongly. It made me sad and fuelled my rage. It made me want to incite my friends to form a coven. It reminded me how passionate I used to feel about women’s rights when I was a teenager in the 70s, and how defeated I feel now as I watch the world and see how little things have really, fundamentally improved.”
The Sirens didn’t affect me anything like the same way, but it’s still a powerful and engaging read, with a satisfying conclusion that ties up the various plot threads neatly.
Whether you’re a fan of magical realism, historical fiction, or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, The Sirens is a novel that’s well worth your time. Weyward even more so.
My thanks to Netgalley for giving me a free copy of this book. All my reviews are 100% honest and unbiased, regardless of how I acquire the book.
You might also like: Weyward | Emilia Hart