Spoiler-Free Review

If you read my reviews regularly, you know that my 5-star reads are few and far between. I’m happy to report that The Familiar has made that list.

Also, fun fact: I got my edition signed by the Leigh Bardugo on her book tour.

What’s The Familiar about?

In Inquisition-era Spain, servant Luzia Cotado fights for a position at the King’s side for her ability to perform “small miracles” – but first she has to prove it’s not devil’s magic, all while hiding her Jewish lineage.

I was hooked all the way through.

“Who was a peasant to command a person of his stature? And yet, in this room, on this night, he had asked for her to perform, and so her impudence must be permitted. Such was the temporary power of the singer, the actor, the fool.”

It was so nice to be back in Bardugo’s writing style. There’s just something about the way she strings words together that flows so nicely and evokes such vivid imagery. It’s absorbing, immersive, and thoughtful without being overwrought. It was also shorter than most fantasy, coming in under 400 pages, so it was a quick read.

There was a lot of character focus and it worked well for this story. In fact, outside of the writing, the characters were my next favorite part. Each felt well-developed with distinct strengths and flaws, who were relatable or sympathetic or unlikable in all the ways you’d want them to be. I also enjoyed the romantic subplot.

I was also consistently impressed with the setting – the historical context was such a big part of the storytelling, and never did my faith in the worldbuilding waver. The food descriptions, the scenery, the class dynamics, it all fit. There was a sinister feeling underlying every display of wealth or religious fervor. It managed to make the fault of man feel separate from the religion itself, highlighting how power-hungry men might twist religion in their favor, especially as a means of controlling women and certain ethnic groups.

There were slower moments here and there, but I thought it fit the atmosphere and really matched the internal world of the main character.

Should you read The Familiar?

If you liked Ninth House by the same author, you’ll probably like The Familiar. I also recommend it to fans of historical fantasy or low fantasy in general, as well as anyone who enjoys religious commentary and Spanish cultural themes. If you ever had a phase where you were really into the Inquisition, you’ll also probably like this one.

It’s also told in a third person limited POV, and incorporates several POVs over the course of the book. There is some romance as well, but I would consider it a subplot.