North Is the Night: By Emily Rath (Book Review)

“North Is the Night” by Emily Rath is a compelling fantasy novel that intertwines Finnish mythology with a tale of friendship, resilience, and love. Set against the backdrop of medieval Finland during the onset of the Swedish Crusades, the story follows two best friends, Siiri and Aina, whose lives are irrevocably changed when a death goddess abducts Aina to Tuonela, the Finnish underworld. Determined to rescue her friend, Siiri embarks on a perilous journey to seek the legendary shaman Väinämöinen, the only person known to have ventured into Tuonela and returned alive.

Plot Overview

In the Finnish wilderness, Siiri and Aina’s tranquil lives are disrupted by external threats: land-hungry Swedes encroaching from the south, a zealous Christian priest denouncing their pagan traditions, and the mysterious disappearance of young women in their village. The situation escalates when Aina is kidnapped by a death goddess and taken to Tuonela. Siiri, driven by unwavering loyalty and love, sets off on a treacherous journey north to find Väinämöinen, hoping to gain the knowledge needed to rescue Aina from the underworld. Meanwhile, in Tuonela, Aina endures the torment of the Witch Queen and uncovers that Tuoni, the king of the underworld, has his own plans for her. As Siiri faces numerous challenges in the mortal realm, Aina must navigate the complexities of the underworld, leading both women to profound self-discoveries.

Character Development

Siiri
Siiri is portrayed as bold and headstrong, embodying courage and determination. Her journey is not only a physical quest to rescue Aina but also an internal voyage of self-discovery, testing her resilience and commitment to her friend. Her interactions with various deities and mythical creatures highlight her resourcefulness and unwavering spirit.

Aina
In contrast, Aina’s character embodies gentleness and caution. Her time in Tuonela reveals her inner strength and adaptability as she navigates the treacherous underworld. Her relationship with Tuoni adds complexity to her character, showcasing her ability to find compassion and understanding even in dire circumstances.

Themes Explored

Friendship and Loyalty
The bond between Siiri and Aina is the narrative’s cornerstone, illustrating the depths of friendship and the lengths one will go to for a loved one. Their relationship transcends mere companionship, delving into themes of sacrifice and unwavering loyalty.

Cultural Identity and Resistance
The novel delves into the tension between traditional Finnish paganism and the encroaching Christian influences brought by Swedish invaders. This cultural clash serves as a backdrop, highlighting themes of resistance, identity, and the preservation of heritage.

Love and Sacrifice
Through Aina’s interactions with Tuoni and Siiri’s relentless quest, the story explores the multifaceted nature of love and the sacrifices it demands. It examines how love can be both a source of strength and a catalyst for difficult choices.

Writing Style and World-Building

Emily Rath’s prose is richly descriptive, painting vivid images of the Finnish landscape and the eerie underworld of Tuonela. Her meticulous world-building immerses readers in a setting that feels both authentic and fantastical. The incorporation of Finnish mythology adds depth and uniqueness to the narrative, offering readers a fresh perspective within the fantasy genre.

Critical Reception

“North Is the Night” has garnered praise for its immersive storytelling and strong character development. Reviewers have highlighted Rath’s ability to blend mythological elements with a compelling narrative, creating a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel’s exploration of cultural identity and the preservation of heritage has resonated with readers, adding a layer of depth to the fantasy adventure.

Conclusion

Emily Rath crafts a narrative that is both epic and intimate, exploring universal themes through the lens of Finnish folklore. The novel’s rich character development, immersive world-building, and exploration of profound themes make it a noteworthy addition to the fantasy genre. Readers seeking a tale of adventure, love, and resilience will find “North Is the Night” a rewarding and memorable read.

Also Read: What It’s Like in Words: By Eliza Moss (Book Review)