Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil

Summary & Review 

Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil is an atmospheric, multi-generational vampire tale that threads together the lives of three women across centuries—María in 1532 Spain, Charlotte in 1827 England, and Alice in 2019 Boston. Each character confronts societal constraints—whether patriarchal marriage, expectations of heterosexual conformity, or personal identity crisis—and is seduced by an immortal figure who offers escape, freedom, and power at a steep cost. V. E. Schwab weaves their stories into a richly layered tapestry, exploring themes of rage, autonomy, and transformation. The narrative is slow-burning and deeply character-driven, emphasizing mood and psychological tension over traditional action. Though its pace demands patience, the novel delivers haunting, emotionally resonant storytelling with compelling historical context and queer representation, making it an immersive and memorable experience .

Critical Analysis

Schwab demonstrates her mastery of prose and emotional depth in this novel. Her lyrical writing brings to life the claustrophobic hunger of immortal existence and the inner turmoil of the three protagonists. The alternating timelines are handled with care—each era has its own tone, voice, and social commentary, yet they seamlessly intertwine into a singular, Gothic mosaic. Themes of survival, identity, obsession, and monstrosity are explored with nuance, particularly through the lens of female agency in oppressive structures  However, the pacing can feel uneven: the deliberate, introspective build-up in the first half may test readers’ patience, while the eventual convergence of storylines may come too late for some. Additionally, the protagonists are intentionally flawed—selfish or toxic by design—which may limit emotional attachment, though it enhances the novel’s realistic examination of power and consequences

Recommendation

This novel will resonate with readers who appreciate moody, character-driven Gothic fantasy that leans into psychological horror rather than action. If you’re drawn to historical settings, morally complex queer narratives, and themes of autonomy and monstrosity, you’ll find Bury Our Bones an evocative—if at times demanding—read. It’s not for those seeking a fast-paced vampire thriller, but those who savor rich prose and thematic depth will consider it a standout in Schwab’s oeuvre. Highly recommended for fans of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, Anne Rice-esque vampire lore, or anyone intrigued by dark tales of female empowerment and eternal hunger.

sources 

kirkus.com                                                                                                                  medium.com