Book Review: Gallant by V.E. Schwab
When I first picked up Gallant, I felt a wave of curiosity wash over me. V.E. Schwab has a knack for crafting intriguing worlds and memorable characters, but having read six of her previous works, I couldn’t shake the sense of déjà vu. Would this be another enchanting tale, or a recycled narrative? Unfortunately, it fell into the latter category for me.
Gallant centers around Olivia Prior, a girl raised in the Merilance School for girls, where she grapples with her past through her mother’s cryptic journal. When an invitation from her uncle beckons her to Gallant—a place that feels oddly like home—Olivia’s journey begins. The atmosphere is laden with mystery and secrecy, elements that typically draw me in. However, the journey quickly stagnated.
As I delved deeper, I found myself echoing the sentiment, "I’ve read this story before." The narrative hit all the familiar beats of a cliché YA plot, lacking the uniqueness that often sets Schwab’s work apart. Olivia, like many of Schwab’s protagonists, is a misunderstood girl who’s "not like other girls," and while there’s nothing inherently wrong with that archetype, it left me wanting more diversity and complexity in character development.
Schwab’s narratives often explore themes of death, loss, and isolation, which are present here as well. Lines such as, “Safe does not mean happy, does not mean well, does not mean kind,” resonate with the underlying emotional struggles of the characters. Yet, despite these poignant insights, I felt adrift in a flat landscape, experiencing little connection to Olivia or the supporting cast, all of whom seemed to blend into one another in a forgettable haze.
While the writing style was a highlight, showcasing Schwab’s trademark lyrical prose that gently weaves through the narrative, the pacing hindered any sense of urgency or excitement. Descriptions of Gallant and its eeriness, while atmospheric, often overshadowed the plot. I found myself longing for thrilling revelations or character-driven moments, but was met with disappointment as the story meandered without a strong sense of direction.
The cast of characters, beyond Olivia, failed to leave a lasting impression. Their interactions felt stilted, lacking depth, which made it hard for me to invest in their arcs. Even the villain, introduced late in the narrative, felt like an afterthought, lacking the terrifying resonance that one would expect from a tale shrouded in secrets.
Despite my frustrations, I must emphasize that Schwab’s writing remains a beautiful thing to behold. However, I believe this book may resonate more with readers who are new to her work or those who crave a simpler, atmospheric read. Established fans, like myself, may find it difficult to overlook the over-familiar tropes and feelings of disconnection.
In conclusion, while Gallant sought to convey themes of belonging and discovery, it left me feeling more unmoored than enchanted. For readers seeking deeper character exploration and unique storytelling, this may not be the right fit. Still, if you’re a newcomer to Schwab’s world, it might just spark a persistent curiosity. As for me, I’ll hold onto the hope that her next offering breaks new ground—and perhaps, even introduces friendships with more heart.