Paper Jam Design Jam Design itibaren Letoshniki, Bryanskaya oblast', Rusya, 242772
Set in the 1300's. Gytha is betrothed to the handsome William, but when he unexpectedly dies shortly before their wedding, she has to marry Thayer, the next heir to the estate. Thayer had a heartbreak in the past and is dismayed at the thought of marrying a beauty like Gytha who will definitely cheat on him. Although he's a very well-respected warrior, he is deeply insecure about his looks and Gytha's feelings for him and his distrust threatens to permanently damage their relationship, despite Gytha's devotion to him. Because of the time period, the dialogue and prose were a little formal (eg no modern slang), but it wasn't overdone so it didn't slow down the reading or make it tedious. The characters were all pretty well-developed and believable. As dutiful as Gytha is to Thayer, you never get the irksome feeling that she's being subjected. This isn't going to become a favorite of mine, but it was a fun little read and it's definitely a keeper.
I have read a lot of mixed reviews on this book, but I must say that for the most part I loved it. It was the first book by Moody I have ever read, and I was stunned and enchanted by his consistent use of original descriptives and emotional tension. As someone who has recently dealt with a huge loss in my life I related somewhat to the protagonist, Hex, a man in his late thirties who hasn't done much with his life and is called home to care for his very sick mother. Moody captures the mood (no pun intended) here perfectly. Throughout the book, all of the characters go through several changes of heart...big, huge whiplashes in decision making, and Moody pulls the reader into their dilemmas, which is something that is so difficult to do as a writer. I felt empathy for all of the characters in this book. I will say that the second to last chapter could have been the last, although I see what Moody was trying to do. Also, the use of italics was, well, a little bit excessive. But those are both small things compared to the weight of the words, emotions, and happenings contained in this book. If you aren't willing to read about regular people who have been crushed by life dealing with difficult things, then don't read the book, but to me it highlighted the humanness of all of us, the way human regret, make rash decisions, and are all just looking for love. I loved this book.