38 pages • 1 hour read
The Mercies
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Book Brief
352
Novel • Fiction
Finnmark, Norway • 1620s
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Mercies by Kiran Millwood Hargrave, published in 2020, is a historical fiction novel set in a 1618 Norwegian Arctic town after a storm kills the town's men, leaving the women to rebuild. As imperialist forces impose laws and start a witch hunt, Ursa, the wife of a Scottish commissioner, forms a deep bond with Maren, a local woman, challenging societal norms and exploring themes of mob mentality, gender roles, and fear. This book includes sensitive topics such as witch hunts, executions, and violence.
Dark
Mysterious
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
52,113 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kiran Millwood Hargrave's The Mercies impresses with its atmospheric setting and rich historical detail, immersing readers in a 17th-century Norwegian village. Critics praise its compelling characters and vivid prose, though some find the pacing slow at times. Overall, it's lauded for its emotional depth and exploration of themes like suspicion, power, and resilience.
Who Should Read The Mercies?
Fans of historical fiction like The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton and The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman will be captivated by The Mercies. With its gripping tale of survival, complex characters, and atmospheric setting, it appeals to readers who appreciate richly detailed narratives and powerful emotional storytelling.
52,113 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ursa
Ursa
Originally from Bergen, Ursa moves to Vardø as Absalom Cornet’s wife and has to adapt to a new and stark environment. She forms a close bond with Maren, offering her insights into life in Vardø.
Diinna
Diinna
Maren's sister-in-law, Diinna, is from the Sámi people and faces prejudice while trying to integrate into the Vardø community. She is determined to uphold her cultural identity.
Kirsten
Kirsten
A leader among the women of Vardø, Kirsten takes charge after a storm devastates the village. She challenges traditional gender roles as she works to rebuild the community.
Absalom Cornet
Absalom Cornet
A Scottish man appointed as the commissioner of Vardø, Absalom is dedicated to religious reform but is estranged from and distrustful of the local women.
352
Novel • Fiction
Finnmark, Norway • 1620s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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