A review by erinnicolecreads
I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I have so many mixed feelings about this book! The various messages within this story have profound meaning. Female relationships, unexplained cruelty, things we take for granted on a day to day basis, one’s sense of humanity, etc. The story and the writing feel very meaningful and profound, yet not a lot really happened in the story. It felt very intentional, but for the enjoyment of the reader, it was difficult to feel hooked by the story. I know the story will stick with me for a very long time, however, the actual experience of reading the book was on the slower side for me. I also know the lack of closure/answers was likely intentional (going back to the point of unexplained cruelty), but again, as a reader, I’m left CRAVING answers. Still enjoyed this read though & its messages are so important!