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roseleaf24's review against another edition
3.0
This is not Hardy's best. Don't read it if you haven't read any of his better and better known works. This has the scathing commentary on class structure and patriarchal oppression of his other books, but he is not nearly as talented at writing women in this book as he is in later novels. Elfie is unsympathetic and silly for a good deal of the book.
orlafaherty's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
jason_pym's review
2.0
Oof... I am a big fan of Hardy's bucolic misery, but this one is like a poor parody, and less miserable than usual.
torsgilks's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
sjgrodsky's review against another edition
5.0
Early Hardy, when he was still perfecting his craft and themes. Still a good story, if didactic and judgmental. Penguin Classics edition has an intro that is a spoiler.
heather_freshparchment's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
Content Warnings
Moderate: Misogyny, Classism, Sexism, and Death of parent
Minor: Pregnancy and Miscarriage
ellieanor's review against another edition
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5