Night of Sorrows: A Novel : Book Review

"Night of Sorrows" by Frances Sherwood is a captivating historical fiction novel that takes place in 16th century Mexico during the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. The story follows the lives of three main characters: Catalina, an Aztec princess; Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador; and Father Bernardino de Sahagun, a Franciscan friar.

Sherwood's writing style is captivating, immersing the reader in the vibrant world of ancient Aztec civilization. The descriptions are vivid and transport the reader to the bustling streets of Tenochtitlan, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and emotions of the characters. The author's attention to historical detail is commendable, demonstrating her thorough research and knowledge of the time period.

The characters in "Night of Sorrows" are well-developed and multi-dimensional, each grappling with their own personal struggles, flaws, and desires. Catalina serves as a compelling protagonist, torn between her loyalty to her people and her growing attraction to Cortes. Cortes himself is depicted as a complex and mysterious figure, driven by ambition but plagued by his own inner demons. Father Bernardino provides a unique perspective, serving as a bridge between two cultures and navigating the conflicts between his faith and his growing empathy for the Aztec people.

One of the major themes explored in the novel is the clash of different belief systems and worldviews. The conflicts between the Aztec religion and Catholicism are presented with nuance, highlighting the complexities and misunderstandings that arise when two vastly different cultures collide. Sherwood delves into the moral ambiguity of the Spanish conquest, raising important questions about power, colonization, and the long-lasting implications of historical events.

Overall, "Night of Sorrows" is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that offers insight into a crucial period of history. Through its well-crafted characters, immersive setting, and compelling themes, Frances Sherwood delivers a captivating story that sheds light on the complexities of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire.

What are readers saying?

The novel Night of Sorrows written by Frances Sherwood has garnered a range of responses from its readers. While some individuals have praised the book for its meticulously researched historical background and engaging storytelling, others have expressed their discontent with its slow pacing and lack of character development.

Many readers have commended Sherwood for her meticulous research and attention to detail, which allows her to effectively capture the essence of 16th-century Mexico and the tumultuous events of the Conquest. The book's use of vivid imagery and descriptive language is often celebrated for its ability to transport readers to another time and place. Several reviewers have also praised the author's ability to interweave various narrative threads, providing a comprehensive depiction of the era.

However, some readers have expressed their disappointment with the sluggish pace of Night of Sorrows. They describe the plot as being lengthy and slow-moving, lacking in tension and excitement. Additionally, a handful of reviewers have mentioned their struggle to fully connect with the characters. They believe that the book's character development is insufficient, making it difficult to form emotional connections or become fully engaged in their stories.

The book's writing style receives mixed reviews from readers. While many enjoy Sherwood's poetic and lyrical prose, others find it excessively dense and convoluted. Some reviewers have experienced difficulty with the complex sentence structures and abundant use of historical terminology, finding them distracting from the overall reading experience.

The exploration of complex themes such as colonization, religion, and power dynamics within Night of Sorrows receives praise from certain readers. They appreciate the depth and thought-provoking nature of these themes, as well as Sherwood's skill in addressing them within her narrative. However, a few reviewers feel that these themes are overwhelming and not fully explored, desiring more profound analysis within the book.

NightOfSorrows BookRecommendation MustRead