Discovering Humanity Through Horror: A Review of The Starving Saints by Tessa Starling
From the moment I found myself drawn into Tessa Starling’s The Starving Saints, I knew I was about to embark on a darkly enchanting journey. The tension of a siege, the desperation of refugees, and the unsettling presence of miracle-working saints promised a narrative that would challenge and thrill in equal measure. Having admired Starling’s ability to weave deep emotional truths into fantastical landscapes before, I was eager to see how she would explore the darkest corners of human nature this time.
Set within the claustrophobic walls of Aymar Castle, where desperation has taken root amid dwindling food stores and the palpable fear of starvation, The Starving Saints unfolds through the perspectives of three women who couldn’t be more different yet are intrinsically linked by their dire circumstances. Phosyne, an excommunicated nun with miraculous powers, Ser Voyne, a knight bound by duty, and Treila, a serving girl with a penchant for vengeance, each offer their distinct voices and experiences, revealing a richly detailed world rife with moral ambiguity.
Starling’s prose is as transfixing as it is unnerving. She doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of survival in a besieged castle—think cannibalism and dangerous magic—while urging readers to confront the terrifying truth that the quest for power can corrupt even the purest intentions. Each woman is layered with flaws and strengths that resonate deeply, and as they wrestle with trust and betrayal, readers can’t help but reflect on the complex nature of humanity itself.
What struck me most was how Starling masterfully curated the pacing of this gripping tale. Alternating between the three narratives creates a seamless tapestry of interwoven experiences, pulling readers deeper into the heart of the story. The characters’ connection is palpable; they depend on each other for survival and guidance, each voice enhancing our understanding of the world around them. As the siege intensifies, so does the unease, culminating in an atmosphere that leaves readers breathless.
The vivid imagery Starling conjures makes every scene feel immediate. You can practically feel the staleness of the air, smell decay, and taste the bitterness of despair. This sensory richness draws us into the characters’ struggles and triumphs, forging an emotional connection that is both profound and unsettling. As described in Library Journal, her narrative is "richly detailed," and those details never detract from the urgency of the plot.
In a world where power dynamics play out like a sinister game, The Starving Saints urges us to question everything. It serves as a mirror, reflecting our own modern-world complexities through a fantastical lens. This isn’t merely a dark fantasy—it’s a compelling horror novel wrapped in magic, begging us to confront the moral quandaries in our lives.
Perfect for fans of Slewfoot by Brom and The Unworthy by Bazterrica, this novel isn’t just an escape; it’s a call to arms. Starling has created more than a mere story; she’s crafted a fever dream that remains with you long after the last page is turned. If you’re ready to step into a world where humanity’s worst is unleashed in the face of desperation, The Starving Saints is a haunting must-read. Embrace the unsettling, and let Starling lead you on this remarkably captivating journey.