North Is the Night embarks on a riveting journey steeped in Finnish mythology and folklore. With its haunting landscapes, multidimensional characters, and profound exploration of love, sacrifice, and resilience, Emily Rath crafts a deeply immersive narrative. Set against a backdrop of land-hungry Swedes and zealous Christian conversion, this book stands as a gripping tale of defiance and determination.
Inspired by Finnish folklore and mythology, Rath reimagines ancient tales while intertwining them with universal themes of loyalty and hope.
Plot Summary: A Mythic Odyssey
The plot follows Siiri, a young woman determined to protect her friend Aina, and Aina herself, trapped in Tuonela, the Finnish underworld. Siiri’s quest to save Aina leads her north to find Väinämöinen, a legendary shaman. The stakes are high as Siiri battles harsh elements, mysterious creatures, and her own doubts.
Meanwhile, Aina struggles in Tuonela, enduring the wrath of the Witch Queen while uncovering her purpose and the underworld’s hidden truths. The dual narrative alternates between Siiri’s daring journey and Aina’s quiet strength, offering a compelling exploration of their friendship and love.
This dynamic plot seamlessly blends action, emotional depth, and mythical elements, creating an intricate tapestry of adventure.
Main Characters: Complex and Relatable
- Siiri
Siiri embodies unwavering courage and loyalty, driven by her love for Aina. Her resilience is inspiring, though her impulsive nature sometimes complicates her journey. Rath portrays Siiri as a character of depth, balancing vulnerability with strength. - Aina
Trapped in Tuonela, Aina emerges as a beacon of intellect and subtle defiance. Her resourcefulness and compassion stand out as she navigates the treacherous underworld. Aina’s arc of growth is a testament to inner strength and perseverance. - The Witch Queen and Tuoni
These deities add a dark mystique to the story. While Tuoni’s loneliness humanizes him, the Witch Queen’s malice introduces a palpable tension. Their interactions with the protagonists enrich the narrative’s complexity.
Writing Style: Lyrical and Immersive
Rath’s writing style is richly descriptive, capturing the stark beauty of Finnish landscapes and the eerie underworld with equal precision. The prose oscillates between poetic and visceral, evoking a range of emotions. However, the pacing occasionally falters, with certain sections feeling overly descriptive, detracting from the plot’s momentum.
Themes: Love, Sacrifice, and Identity
- Love and Loyalty
The love between Siiri and Aina transcends platonic boundaries, illustrating the profound bond between them. Rath portrays love not merely as a romantic ideal but as a driving force for survival and redemption. - Cultural Identity and Resistance
The tension between traditional Finnish beliefs and the encroaching Christian influence provides a powerful commentary on cultural erosion and resistance. - Sacrifice and Redemption
Siiri’s journey is marked by self-sacrifice, while Aina’s resilience in Tuonela reflects the costs and rewards of endurance.
Strengths of the Book
- Mythical World-Building: Rath’s interpretation of Finnish mythology is both innovative and respectful, creating a world that feels authentic yet fantastical.
- Character Depth: The protagonists and supporting cast are well-developed, with believable motivations and arcs.
- Emotional Resonance: The story’s emotional core is compelling, ensuring readers are invested in the characters’ fates.
Critiques and Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues
While the rich descriptions enhance immersion, they occasionally slow the narrative’s progression, particularly during Siiri’s journey. - Uneven Power Dynamics
Certain interactions between mortals and deities raise questions about consent, a subtle but critical aspect that could have been explored with greater sensitivity. - Predictable Elements
Some plot twists feel telegraphed, reducing their impact.
Comparisons and Recommendations
Fans of The Witch’s Heart by Genevieve Gornichec or The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden will find similar themes of folklore, resilience, and atmospheric world-building. Similarly, Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik and Uprooted by the same author offer rich mythological foundations intertwined with tales of bravery and love. Readers who appreciated the hauntingly magical realism of Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher or the feminist undertones in Circe by Madeline Miller will undoubtedly find North Is the Night to be an enchanting addition to their collection.
Personal Take
Emily Rath’s North Is the Night is a triumph of imagination, weaving ancient Finnish mythology into a modern narrative. While the pacing and occasional predictability detract slightly from the overall experience, the book’s heart lies in its characters and their struggles.
The love between Siiri and Aina is profoundly moving, demonstrating how hope and determination can conquer even the most insurmountable odds. Rath’s prose is evocative, painting vivid pictures of icy landscapes and shadowed forests.
Conclusion: A Haunting Tale of Love and Defiance
With its mythical foundation and emotional depth, North Is the Night is a compelling start to The Tuonela Duet. Despite minor flaws, it remains a worthy read for fans of fantasy and mythology. Rath’s talent for storytelling shines, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
