Some people take issue with Catherine Murdock's use of multiple P.O.V.'s (eight in
all!). However, as detailed in the author Q&A at the back of the
book, Murdock did what a writer's supposed to: Tell the story. If the
P.O.V. being used isn't serving the story, then change the P.O.V. or do
as Murdock did and add new P.O.V.'s. Perhaps eight points of view seems
excessive to some, but it works and what results is a richly layered
and deeply nuanced tale. And even though this is a tale of fantasy,
there is an element of reality to it as well: With the use of varied
and sometimes conflicting viewpoints, one can see how real actions can
be transformed into folklore and fairy tales. Multiple viewpoints allow
for a well-rounded perspective on the action; there's always more than
one side to any story and there will always be those who put their own
spin or interpretation on events. Lines get blurred, fantastical
stories get rationalized into dull yet more "realistic" occurrences, and
people start to believe that what really happened couldn't have
happened. Mix in entries from a Encyclopedia (a gimmick which appealed
greatly to my inner geek) and voila! you've got an instant winner on
your hands.Despite all that, the multiple P.O.V.'s could've been just that, a gimmick, a ploy to take the reader's attention off a lame or underdeveloped plot. Thankfully that's not the case here, as Murdock's story is just as inventive as her method of telling it. The characters are all unique and while not all of them are likable, they're believable. I will say this, though: Tips is a fool. While I understand and applaud Murdock's intention to avoid the cliche of a girl finding her true love at age 16, the way Tips and Trudy's story turned out seemed wrong. (view spoiler) However, taken as a whole, the novel is quite satisfying and the ending, while not the one I would've picked for the main characters, manages to tie things up nicely and in an entertaining fashion. One thing's for sure, Murdock had quite the fun time coming up with names of towns, countries, even some battles; as you read and come across these names, they make for an extra giggle or two.
Some have said that Wisdom's Kiss is a retelling of certain fairy tales, but I disagree. I see it more of an homage or a re-imagining at the very most, seeing as there's more than one fairy tale involved in the book. We have the sleeping princess as in Snow White or Sleeping Beauty, but, presented in a very unique voice, we also have the appearance of Puss 'n Boots (who, coincidentally enough, sounded very much like Antonio Banderas in my head), as well as some influence from German and Arabian folklore. In entwining these various characters, Murdock has created an entirely new and thoroughly entertaining fairy tale.
Read October 6-8, 2011
Originally reviewed for the Amazon Vine Program October 12, 2011
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