Quick Take

A tale of love, money, and family conflict--among dragons. A family deals with the death of their father. A son goes to court for his inheritance. Another son agonises over his father's deathbed confession. One daughter becomes involved in the abolition movement, while another sacrifices herself for her husband. And everyone in the tale is a dragon, red in tooth and claw. Here is a world of politics and train stations, of churchmen and family retainers, of courtship and country houses... in which, on the death of an elder, family members gather to eat the body of the deceased. In which the great and the good avail themselves of the privilege of killing and eating the weaker children, which they do with ceremony and relish, growing stronger thereby. You have never read a novel like Tooth and Claw.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Tooth and Claw

Introduction

"Tooth and Claw" by Jo Walton is a captivating novel that combines elements of Regency romance and fantasy. Set in a world where dragons exist and are part of high society, the story follows a family dealing with the death of their father and the ensuing conflicts over inheritance and power. With its well-crafted characters, intricate plot, and exploration of social issues, "Tooth and Claw" has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its unique blend of genres and its thought-provoking themes.

About Jo Walton

Jo Walton, the author of "Tooth and Claw," is a talented writer known for her imaginative and thought-provoking works. She hails from Wales but currently resides in Montreal. Walton's writing style is characterized by her ability to blend elements of science fiction and fantasy with a deep understanding of human emotions and social dynamics. Her previous works, such as "Farthing" and "Among Others," have received critical acclaim for their originality and depth.

Analysis of Views

Unique blend of genres: Readers praise "Tooth and Claw" for its successful merging of Regency romance and fantasy elements. The novel's ability to seamlessly integrate these genres into a cohesive narrative has impressed many readers, who appreciate the fresh take on traditional tropes.
Engaging characters: The characters in "Tooth and Claw" are described as endearing, complex, and relatable. Readers appreciate the depth and nuance that Walton brings to each character, allowing them to form connections with the dragons and empathize with their struggles. The contrast between the dragons' physical appearance and their social mores adds an interesting layer to the story.
Social commentary: The novel delves into various social issues, including inheritance law, marriage customs, slavery, and equality. Walton's exploration of these themes adds depth to the narrative and provides readers with a thought-provoking reading experience. The juxtaposition of dragon society with Victorian England allows for a unique perspective on these issues.
Well-crafted plot: The plot of "Tooth and Claw" is described as engaging, suspenseful, and well-paced. Readers appreciate the way Walton builds tension and keeps them guessing about what will happen next. The story's structure, with its intertwining subplots and character arcs, adds complexity to the narrative and keeps readers invested in the outcome.
Writing style: Walton's writing style is praised for its elegance, wit, and ability to evoke a sense of time and place. Her use of language, imagery, and attention to detail creates a richly imagined world that immerses readers in the story. The writing style is described as both accessible and sophisticated, making it enjoyable for readers who appreciate literary fiction.

Reasons for Recommendation

Unique blend of genres: The successful merging of Regency romance and fantasy elements sets "Tooth and Claw" apart from other books in the genre. Readers who enjoy blending different genres or are looking for something fresh and innovative will find this book highly recommended.
Engaging characters: The well-crafted characters in "Tooth and Claw" add depth to the story and make it relatable. Readers appreciate the complexity of the dragons' personalities, their struggles, and their relationships with each other. The characters' growth throughout the novel makes it a compelling read.
Social commentary: The exploration of social issues in "Tooth and Claw" adds depth to the narrative and provides readers with a thought-provoking reading experience. Walton's insights into inheritance law, marriage customs, slavery, and equality make the book relevant to contemporary readers who are interested in these topics.
Well-crafted plot: The engaging plot keeps readers invested in the story from start to finish. The intertwining subplots and character arcs create a complex narrative that keeps readers guessing about what will happen next. The well-paced storytelling ensures that the book remains exciting throughout.
Writing style: Walton's writing style is praised for its elegance, wit, and ability to evoke a sense of time and place. Her attention to detail creates a richly imagined world that immerses readers in the story. Readers appreciate the accessibility of her writing while still appreciating its sophistication.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Pacing: Some readers have found the pacing of "Tooth and Claw" to be slow at times, which can make it difficult to fully engage with the story. The slower pacing may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced or action-packed novels.
Dragon-related challenges: The fact that some characters are dragons can be difficult for readers to fully suspend their disbelief, particularly when it comes to certain aspects of their behavior or abilities that do not align with traditional dragon lore or expectations. This may be a challenge for readers who prioritize realism over fantasy elements.

Conclusion

"Tooth and Claw" by Jo Walton is a unique and captivating novel that combines elements of Regency romance and fantasy in a fresh and engaging way. With its well-crafted characters, intricate plot, social commentary, and beautiful writing style, this book has garnered praise from readers who appreciate its blend of genres and thought-provoking themes. While some readers may find the pacing slow or encounter challenges related to suspending disbelief due to the dragon-related aspects, overall "Tooth and Claw" offers a rewarding reading experience for those who enjoy exploring unconventional worlds filled with complex characters and thought-provoking ideas.