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A review by readingoverbreathing
The Priory by Dorothy Whipple
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
One of my main takeaways from the Persephone festival was how little Whipple I've really read — picking up another has been long overdue!
The very first chapter, that spellbinding opening onto the Priory just after dusk, each of its characters shrouded in the darkness, I was utterly enthralled. Whipple writes everything well — atmosphere, plot, and characters and domestic details especially. Though on a surface level, this appears a very simple plot, I never quite knew where it was going, and how it would all end, happily or not.
Like most of her books, there is definitely a heaviness and a sadness here, very much akin to the true bittersweetness of life. But it's of course beautifully handled, almost heartbreakingly so, so I would absolutely recommend if you're in a place to take that in.
Overall, it's Whipple — what more can I really say!
The very first chapter, that spellbinding opening onto the Priory just after dusk, each of its characters shrouded in the darkness, I was utterly enthralled. Whipple writes everything well — atmosphere, plot, and characters and domestic details especially. Though on a surface level, this appears a very simple plot, I never quite knew where it was going, and how it would all end, happily or not.
Like most of her books, there is definitely a heaviness and a sadness here, very much akin to the true bittersweetness of life. But it's of course beautifully handled, almost heartbreakingly so, so I would absolutely recommend if you're in a place to take that in.
Overall, it's Whipple — what more can I really say!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Miscarriage
Minor: Death of parent