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The Short Knife
Longlisted for the 2021 Carnegie Medal
It is the year 454AD. The Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain, throwing it into the chaos of the Dark Ages. Mai has been kept safe by her father and her sister, Haf. But when Saxon warriors arrive at their farm, the family is forced to flee to the hills where British warlords lie in wait. Can Mai survive in a dangerous world where speaking her mother tongue might be deadly, and where even the people she loves the most can't be trusted?
It is the year 454AD. The Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain, throwing it into the chaos of the Dark Ages. Mai has been kept safe by her father and her sister, Haf. But when Saxon warriors arrive at their farm, the family is forced to flee to the hills where British warlords lie in wait. Can Mai survive in a dangerous world where speaking her mother tongue might be deadly, and where even the people she loves the most can't be trusted?
400 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2020
7 people are currently reading
402 people want to read
About the author
Elen Caldecott
62 books58 followersI love to write stories about ordinary children doing extraordinary things.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 5, 2020
What an absolute treasure. Historical words/meanings thrown in to a fantasy set up. Absolutely worth picking up, enjoyed this so SO much!
May 9, 2020
The Short Knife is an uncannily relevant story; Britain divided and in turmoil.
I’m sad that I didn’t enjoy this one – it has such potential. The time period is less-frequented in historical fiction and the discord of the Dark Ages has ample possibilities for conflict.
The first third of the novel was engaging. It’s fast-paced, the characters are drawn deftly, and the writing is atmospheric. Once the initial action subsides, however, the plot begins to drag. I found the frequent use of compound adjectives a bit obtrusive and struggled to contextualise this in the young adult market. Much of the style of the novel lends it to a younger audience (9-12), but the content is dark enough to dispute this.
There is an interesting plot twist at the very end of the story (a bit The Girl on the Train) but for me it was a bit too little too late.
With thanks to the publisher for the proof copy.
I’m sad that I didn’t enjoy this one – it has such potential. The time period is less-frequented in historical fiction and the discord of the Dark Ages has ample possibilities for conflict.
The first third of the novel was engaging. It’s fast-paced, the characters are drawn deftly, and the writing is atmospheric. Once the initial action subsides, however, the plot begins to drag. I found the frequent use of compound adjectives a bit obtrusive and struggled to contextualise this in the young adult market. Much of the style of the novel lends it to a younger audience (9-12), but the content is dark enough to dispute this.
There is an interesting plot twist at the very end of the story (a bit The Girl on the Train) but for me it was a bit too little too late.
With thanks to the publisher for the proof copy.
August 8, 2020
When I got this book in the Book Box Club of June I have to admit that in a way I was a little surprised. For some reason I had expected a different book. However, this was once more a beautiful case of reading a book that never would have crossed my path without the Book Box Club. It's a book I never would have gotten myself, a genre I don't read too often. It was also the perfect book to fill in the Historical Prompt of the N.E.W.T.'s though.
Since it was out of my comfort zone and took place in a time I know not that much about, I had not too many expectations. And I guess that was for me the perfect mindset to read this book and to actually enjoy it. This book is a beautiful introduction to the confusing and incredibly hard time right after the Romans left Britain. Through the eyes of a 13-year old girl we meet a lot of key players and we get a clear sense of the life these children had.
It's actually quite a small story. A story of one little girl who sees things she shouldn't have to see, who has things done to her no one should ever do to a child and who's forced to grow up and take charge way before she should do so. It's however not a very emotional story, but I don't think that would have been fitting. If she had been very emotional, she wouldn't have been able to be who she had to be and to do what she had to do.
I also really loved how within this small story every piece of the story was important in the end and led somewhere. Due to the short flash forwards in between the story I already had an idea where this story was going, but it was quite lovely to see it unfold and to see how every part of the road she walked came together in the end. I also like how, even though we don't know what happens after the end, the tone of the book quite clearly changed during the last few pages. It was small, barely there and yet I felt and saw it. Hope.
Since it was out of my comfort zone and took place in a time I know not that much about, I had not too many expectations. And I guess that was for me the perfect mindset to read this book and to actually enjoy it. This book is a beautiful introduction to the confusing and incredibly hard time right after the Romans left Britain. Through the eyes of a 13-year old girl we meet a lot of key players and we get a clear sense of the life these children had.
It's actually quite a small story. A story of one little girl who sees things she shouldn't have to see, who has things done to her no one should ever do to a child and who's forced to grow up and take charge way before she should do so. It's however not a very emotional story, but I don't think that would have been fitting. If she had been very emotional, she wouldn't have been able to be who she had to be and to do what she had to do.
I also really loved how within this small story every piece of the story was important in the end and led somewhere. Due to the short flash forwards in between the story I already had an idea where this story was going, but it was quite lovely to see it unfold and to see how every part of the road she walked came together in the end. I also like how, even though we don't know what happens after the end, the tone of the book quite clearly changed during the last few pages. It was small, barely there and yet I felt and saw it. Hope.
July 18, 2020
This book was such a fascinating read. At times I found it quite slow and can’t say I loved any of the characters overly but that made it more intriguing to me. I loved the setting and the fact it focused on a time after the Romans had left Britain as I don’t feel like it’s talked about a lot?
What I loved is this is a story about sisterhood, about survival and growing up. Told from Mai’s perspective and going back and forth in the timeline, this book is cleverly written and one I’d recommend if you’re looking for a story about a young girl fighting for survival and her family in a world created by men.
What I loved is this is a story about sisterhood, about survival and growing up. Told from Mai’s perspective and going back and forth in the timeline, this book is cleverly written and one I’d recommend if you’re looking for a story about a young girl fighting for survival and her family in a world created by men.
May 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this young adult historical fiction. It’s lovely to read books based in Wales, so many are about Scotland or Ireland, so it’s long overdue we get more books about Wales and especially YA. Although I found the first half of the book slow to start, it did pick up around midway and then it really took off, after that I just couldn’t put it down. It's beautifully written, I love the use of the Welsh language and phrases. Overall a good story, with great writing and I look forward to future books by the author.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
August 18, 2020
Full review coming to my blog. Read for the Book Box Club, ready for the author chat later this month.
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This book was the very first one I got through my Book Box Club subscription. With the theme ‘Courageous and Kind’ and book descripion I was so sure it would be Cinderella is Dead. It just had to be. But on the day of arrival my friend informed me ahead we had been wrong; she had received it a few hours before me. And even though it wasn’t the book I had expected, I had gotten curious.
I wasn’t sure what I expected the book to be about, but this wasn’t it. Maybe because of the cover in combination with the description. Most historical fictions have a lot more adventure, travelling, not a… smaller story like this one. It wasn’t thrilling as I had hoped, it was more… mysterious. Something has happened, but you don’t know what or why. Bit by bit you’re left clues to connect the dots. That is something I did really enjoy: it all matches and connects in the end. Things feel like they stand on its own, but they aren’t.
It’s a time period I am not that familiar with, just before one of my favorite periods. It’s interesting to get to know more about it, especially through the eyes of a young girl. It made it special, but somehow – I don’t know why – I think it was also the cause why I didn’t really connect with any of the characters. She is so naive and unknown. Normally I could easily name my favorite character, or struggle choosing between a few, but now it took a long time to figure out if I actually rooted for something or someone.
The writing style took some time getting used to and to get into the story itself, but once used to it it fitted. It managed to drag you into the story, into the time period. So well chosen and in the end well written. Even though some words were unknown to me, in most situations it wasn’t distracting. It did make the connection to the time period more believable or the way of thinking. Things that are normal these days, are still unknown back then and the other way around.
All in all, I wasn’t too hung up with the story of Mai, but it made me curious enough to continue – besides the fact I have my first author chat in the Book Box Club lounge later this month. I actually am curious to how things continue after the final page of the book. That feels like an adventurious story that is just my thing! (I wish there would be.)
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This book was the very first one I got through my Book Box Club subscription. With the theme ‘Courageous and Kind’ and book descripion I was so sure it would be Cinderella is Dead. It just had to be. But on the day of arrival my friend informed me ahead we had been wrong; she had received it a few hours before me. And even though it wasn’t the book I had expected, I had gotten curious.
I wasn’t sure what I expected the book to be about, but this wasn’t it. Maybe because of the cover in combination with the description. Most historical fictions have a lot more adventure, travelling, not a… smaller story like this one. It wasn’t thrilling as I had hoped, it was more… mysterious. Something has happened, but you don’t know what or why. Bit by bit you’re left clues to connect the dots. That is something I did really enjoy: it all matches and connects in the end. Things feel like they stand on its own, but they aren’t.
It’s a time period I am not that familiar with, just before one of my favorite periods. It’s interesting to get to know more about it, especially through the eyes of a young girl. It made it special, but somehow – I don’t know why – I think it was also the cause why I didn’t really connect with any of the characters. She is so naive and unknown. Normally I could easily name my favorite character, or struggle choosing between a few, but now it took a long time to figure out if I actually rooted for something or someone.
The writing style took some time getting used to and to get into the story itself, but once used to it it fitted. It managed to drag you into the story, into the time period. So well chosen and in the end well written. Even though some words were unknown to me, in most situations it wasn’t distracting. It did make the connection to the time period more believable or the way of thinking. Things that are normal these days, are still unknown back then and the other way around.
All in all, I wasn’t too hung up with the story of Mai, but it made me curious enough to continue – besides the fact I have my first author chat in the Book Box Club lounge later this month. I actually am curious to how things continue after the final page of the book. That feels like an adventurious story that is just my thing! (I wish there would be.)
April 4, 2022
4 Stars
I wasn't sure I was going to like this at first. The book begins bleakly and continues in its bleakness for almost the first half of the story, which I'm generally not a fan of (also, the poor communication between the sisters in the first half drove me mad). However the second half provides a lot more light and shade, and the ending is very bittersweet in the best way.
I went into this knowing next to nothing of this period of history. In fact generally speaking I'm pretty averse to most history taking place after the Romans and pre-1800. However the way history (and legend) was handled in this was ideal for me, light enough that I didn't feel bogged down by it, while interesting enough that I went and looked up some Wikipedia articles for more information when I'd finished. I love the names the author chose to use for the historical/legendary figures - Horsa being Horse (apparently one of the reasons historians believe Horsa and his brother are legendary is because they have animal names), and Gwrtheyrn (Welsh for Vortigern, as he is in Wales at this point!). Obviously I don't know enough to be able to properly appreciate the author's decisions here, and their implications, but I like little touches like that where you can see the author thought through what they were doing.
Anyway, this was an unusual book for me - I so rarely pick up historical fiction, and when I do it's usually modern history, or historical fantasy. Yet as you can see, I enjoyed it, and would definitely recommend the audiobook with the narrator's lovely accent!
August 8, 2020
I found this book strangely compelling. I am not a huge fan of historical fiction, but this was something that makes me reconsider that.
Mai’s story is sad but still somehow hopeful. It’s told in dual timeline and we slowly see the older one converge with the newer one, which is very nicely done. I found Mai quite a good main character, as she doesn’t stop looking for alternatives. And while I liked Haf, her sister, I found her so frustrating! Just sit her down and *tell* her, explicitly, why you’re doing what you are! OMG. 😂 I would have loved to have seen certain things from Haf’s POV.
This book feels like one that is hard to discuss without spoilers, because of the way it’s set up, but I did like that we see camps on both sides, and that it’s very much set up as having no right or wrong. Both have their positives and negatives.
It’s also a very compelling book, I found myself wrapped up in it quite quickly, and it was hard not to read ahead of our buddy read! 3.5 stars.
Mai’s story is sad but still somehow hopeful. It’s told in dual timeline and we slowly see the older one converge with the newer one, which is very nicely done. I found Mai quite a good main character, as she doesn’t stop looking for alternatives. And while I liked Haf, her sister, I found her so frustrating! Just sit her down and *tell* her, explicitly, why you’re doing what you are! OMG. 😂 I would have loved to have seen certain things from Haf’s POV.
This book feels like one that is hard to discuss without spoilers, because of the way it’s set up, but I did like that we see camps on both sides, and that it’s very much set up as having no right or wrong. Both have their positives and negatives.
It’s also a very compelling book, I found myself wrapped up in it quite quickly, and it was hard not to read ahead of our buddy read! 3.5 stars.
January 11, 2021
This was a wonderful read from start to finish. It took me a little way to get into the language used, and I think it could have benefited from a list of words and meanings somewhere in the book, although once you've got into the rhythm it becomes a delight to read and explore the language. The Short Knife wasn't quite what I had expected, as I think part of me had been expecting the usual, broader scope of historical fiction. This book has glimpses of that, but mostly this is a small, self-contained story within the wider world and historical period, and I actually loved that, as it was like getting a snapshot, especially as we follow Mai and therefore discover the world as she does. I loved the use of flashbacks, and the sense of mystery and atmosphere that permeated the entire story, and the author brought us full-circle to a wonderfully, satisfying ending.
July 31, 2022
History through the eyes and hearts of young girls! The things that people did to each other ;(
August 2, 2020
I don't know what it was with this book, but I think my expectations where completely different from what I got. Usually when I read books about this time period, they are these big, epic stories about armies and land and not the very small story this book is telling, and telling well, but it still missed something for me. I really liked the way of storytelling, with the 2 different times, and them coming together in the end (it made me read the first page again to see how well the circle closed...) and the ending was really satisfying, I have to admit.
February 25, 2021
This review was posted at Young Creative Press if you like this review check out my other reviews at youngcreativepress.com
*I was given a copy of The Short Knife in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Andersen Press and Elen Caldecott*
The Short Knife is a YA historical fiction set in 454AD just after the Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain. Living on a farm with her sister Haf and their father, Mai has been sheltered and cared for her entire life, until Saxon men come across their farm and leave destruction in their wake.
Now with nowhere to live and fearing for their lives the family must flee their home in hope of finding fellow Britons to take them in.
Now I’m not usually one for historical fiction, but The Short Knife sounded too interesting for me to pass up. I loved this book. From the get-go, I was captive in its grasp and was only held stronger by the intensity and suspense that every page left me in.
The story is told by Mai, but from two different time periods. Beginning with her current time, the summer solstice 455AD, the story switches to the previous autumn in 454AD with the times intertwine throughout. The autumn time period shows how she came to where she is now.
At first, this was a little confusing but as time went on the story became clearer. I actually really enjoyed this format as it constantly left me wanting more. Mai refers to her sister, who in the summer solstice time is giving birth, after reading the first few chapters it became very clear who the father was. With what happened on the farm, Haf was injured by one of the men, I was worried that this baby was not conceived under consenting circumstances. However, thankfully that was not the case. Apologies if that is somewhat of a spoiler, but I would hate for that plotline to be a trigger for anyone.
Leaving me questioning what I knew about the story I found that I needed to keep reading as the want to know was great. I genuinely think that I would not have enjoyed this book as much if the plot was written chronologically. Yes, it would have still been interesting, however, the switching of time periods add mystery to the story and allowed the reader to wonder how events affected each other.
Mai was a wonderful main character. At just 13 years old she was strong-willed but knew when to let something go. She never lost her fight at any point during the book, instead, she found different ways to use it. Her narration was beautiful and at times I forgot her young age.
Seeing her over time creates new relationships and develop sisterly bonds was an important part of the story. It feels like you are experiencing her growing up with every page and the maturity of the girl at the end of the story feels wise beyond her 13 years.
I believe that The Short Knife is intended for the younger side of the YA community (ages 9 - 14), but it can definitely be enjoyed by those older. At 22 myself I found the book engaging and the darker parts of the story kept me interested. There were a few moments o
*I was given a copy of The Short Knife in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Andersen Press and Elen Caldecott*
The Short Knife is a YA historical fiction set in 454AD just after the Roman Empire has withdrawn from Britain. Living on a farm with her sister Haf and their father, Mai has been sheltered and cared for her entire life, until Saxon men come across their farm and leave destruction in their wake.
Now with nowhere to live and fearing for their lives the family must flee their home in hope of finding fellow Britons to take them in.
Now I’m not usually one for historical fiction, but The Short Knife sounded too interesting for me to pass up. I loved this book. From the get-go, I was captive in its grasp and was only held stronger by the intensity and suspense that every page left me in.
The story is told by Mai, but from two different time periods. Beginning with her current time, the summer solstice 455AD, the story switches to the previous autumn in 454AD with the times intertwine throughout. The autumn time period shows how she came to where she is now.
At first, this was a little confusing but as time went on the story became clearer. I actually really enjoyed this format as it constantly left me wanting more. Mai refers to her sister, who in the summer solstice time is giving birth, after reading the first few chapters it became very clear who the father was. With what happened on the farm, Haf was injured by one of the men, I was worried that this baby was not conceived under consenting circumstances. However, thankfully that was not the case. Apologies if that is somewhat of a spoiler, but I would hate for that plotline to be a trigger for anyone.
Leaving me questioning what I knew about the story I found that I needed to keep reading as the want to know was great. I genuinely think that I would not have enjoyed this book as much if the plot was written chronologically. Yes, it would have still been interesting, however, the switching of time periods add mystery to the story and allowed the reader to wonder how events affected each other.
Mai was a wonderful main character. At just 13 years old she was strong-willed but knew when to let something go. She never lost her fight at any point during the book, instead, she found different ways to use it. Her narration was beautiful and at times I forgot her young age.
Seeing her over time creates new relationships and develop sisterly bonds was an important part of the story. It feels like you are experiencing her growing up with every page and the maturity of the girl at the end of the story feels wise beyond her 13 years.
I believe that The Short Knife is intended for the younger side of the YA community (ages 9 - 14), but it can definitely be enjoyed by those older. At 22 myself I found the book engaging and the darker parts of the story kept me interested. There were a few moments o
July 2, 2020
I was asked to review The Short Knife by Elen Caldecott for Darkroom Booktours.
This was a story that I wouldn’t normally go for but one that was intriguing and well paced. It surrounds Mai and her family. They are Britons in 410AD, the Roman Empire has abandoned Britain and left to fight in foreign wars. The Saxons have invaded and taken their place in this turmoil filled land.
Mai, her sister Haf and Tad, her father, are attacked and have to flee their home. They join a Briton compound but as Tad is severely injured it’s left to Mai and Haf to take care of him and work for their place in the community. Mai ends up working all odd jobs she can find while Haf has taken the eye of the chief of the village. Mai believes she has left her to do all the work and has an easy life. Mai is treated harshly and is unfairly asked to dig through burial tombs. One night when she has had enough she runs away only to be kidnapped by the Saxons who treat her as a slave.
The story flits back and forth from this current story to a not too distant future where Mai is awaiting the birth of her sisters’ child. This child has no father and so brings danger for them all. Jeopardy comes from all sides and she doesn’t know who to trust. Will she survive the trauma that awaits her in the Briton compound if she is found? Will she die a slave to the Saxon lord? Or will the arrival of the unborn child be the death of everyone she holds dear?
I give this book 🌟🌟🌟🌟. Mai is a complicated but fascinating character. She is only 13 but her actions and thoughts are so realistic that you can’t help feel for her as she grows up fast and shows real guts in her will to survive and protect those she loves. The supporting characters are equally well rounded and add depth and heart to this compelling and fast paced story. The Short Knife is a story of a time long ago but one that has been brought vividly to life by the author as you read.
This was a story that I wouldn’t normally go for but one that was intriguing and well paced. It surrounds Mai and her family. They are Britons in 410AD, the Roman Empire has abandoned Britain and left to fight in foreign wars. The Saxons have invaded and taken their place in this turmoil filled land.
Mai, her sister Haf and Tad, her father, are attacked and have to flee their home. They join a Briton compound but as Tad is severely injured it’s left to Mai and Haf to take care of him and work for their place in the community. Mai ends up working all odd jobs she can find while Haf has taken the eye of the chief of the village. Mai believes she has left her to do all the work and has an easy life. Mai is treated harshly and is unfairly asked to dig through burial tombs. One night when she has had enough she runs away only to be kidnapped by the Saxons who treat her as a slave.
The story flits back and forth from this current story to a not too distant future where Mai is awaiting the birth of her sisters’ child. This child has no father and so brings danger for them all. Jeopardy comes from all sides and she doesn’t know who to trust. Will she survive the trauma that awaits her in the Briton compound if she is found? Will she die a slave to the Saxon lord? Or will the arrival of the unborn child be the death of everyone she holds dear?
I give this book 🌟🌟🌟🌟. Mai is a complicated but fascinating character. She is only 13 but her actions and thoughts are so realistic that you can’t help feel for her as she grows up fast and shows real guts in her will to survive and protect those she loves. The supporting characters are equally well rounded and add depth and heart to this compelling and fast paced story. The Short Knife is a story of a time long ago but one that has been brought vividly to life by the author as you read.
September 27, 2021
Mai, her sister Haf and their Tad have lived peacefully on their farm for many years, but change has arrived in Briton. The Romans have withdrawn, making way for Saxon invaders who ravage the land. When the same invaders arrive on Mai's doorstep, one wrong move sends her world spiraling. Left with no home and her Tad gravely injured, Mai must learn to brave a new and unforgiving world where no one can be trusted.
This book was such an immersive experience. I had never read about this period of history before but the turmoil and brokenness of that time makes it the perfect setting. The first thing that jumped out to me from this book was how accurate and vivid the descriptions were. I truly felt like I was living and experiencing so much of the story first hand. And this attention to detail carried over in the plot which was ingenious! It doesn't make sense as a whole until the end when it all comes together, but the moment when the past met the present was definitely my favorite part of this book.
Moving on to the characters, I loved Viola. She was so happy and remained so even though life had thrown her so much. Mai's emotions were confusing at times but over all her character was well rounded and it was really cool to see the world through her eyes. Overall, a great historical read which also held great relevance to the lives of women today. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Happy Reading :)
This book was such an immersive experience. I had never read about this period of history before but the turmoil and brokenness of that time makes it the perfect setting. The first thing that jumped out to me from this book was how accurate and vivid the descriptions were. I truly felt like I was living and experiencing so much of the story first hand. And this attention to detail carried over in the plot which was ingenious! It doesn't make sense as a whole until the end when it all comes together, but the moment when the past met the present was definitely my favorite part of this book.
Moving on to the characters, I loved Viola. She was so happy and remained so even though life had thrown her so much. Mai's emotions were confusing at times but over all her character was well rounded and it was really cool to see the world through her eyes. Overall, a great historical read which also held great relevance to the lives of women today. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fiction. Happy Reading :)
December 16, 2020
The Short Knife by Elen Caldecott follows the misfortune of Mai, her sister Haf and their father after their home is destroyed by Saxon warriors. Mai and Haf, having grown up in isolation on their farm, must learn to live in a world created and ruled by men, and dominated by a power struggle between the Saxons and the native British peoples.
Mai defines herself as British, Welsh and of Roman descent. She speaks British and Saxon. Caldecott uses the multitude of languages spoken in Britain in bygone eras to evoke an ancestral link to the multiculturalism of the United Kingdom as it is today. In this text, she stresses the importance of language to British identity through her use of Welsh and Saxon terminology and phrases.
At its heart, this book is about the history of Great Britain as a land that is defined by the multitude of peoples and nationalities contained therein, as much as it is defined by the conflict between these groups.
Caldecott’s text comes at a time when political tensions in Britain have risen to boiling point as a result of issues such as racial disputes and Brexit. The Short Knife reminds the reader that British identity has never been a singular cultural identity, but rather one that is composed of multiple histories, cultures and traditions, English, Welsh and Scottish being just a few.
Thank you to Children’s Books Ireland for providing me with an advance review copy of this book.
This review was originally published in Inis Magazine Issue 59 (April 2020).
Mai defines herself as British, Welsh and of Roman descent. She speaks British and Saxon. Caldecott uses the multitude of languages spoken in Britain in bygone eras to evoke an ancestral link to the multiculturalism of the United Kingdom as it is today. In this text, she stresses the importance of language to British identity through her use of Welsh and Saxon terminology and phrases.
At its heart, this book is about the history of Great Britain as a land that is defined by the multitude of peoples and nationalities contained therein, as much as it is defined by the conflict between these groups.
Caldecott’s text comes at a time when political tensions in Britain have risen to boiling point as a result of issues such as racial disputes and Brexit. The Short Knife reminds the reader that British identity has never been a singular cultural identity, but rather one that is composed of multiple histories, cultures and traditions, English, Welsh and Scottish being just a few.
Thank you to Children’s Books Ireland for providing me with an advance review copy of this book.
This review was originally published in Inis Magazine Issue 59 (April 2020).
October 29, 2020
An interesting piece of historical fiction during the Dark Ages when there was a war between the Saxons and the Britons.
I was sad that I did not love this story more. It was written very well with a dynamic plot and an interesting story. It was gripping and full of hopelessness especially how women were treated in those times. No child should live through these kind of conditions, forced to mature to survive a brutal world.
Unfortunately, I did not love the characters very much. I mean, I can see how the characters worked really with the story. They grew and matured throughout the story. But I did not connect with them more than that.
What I really enjoyed though was the plot twist though it was almost towards the end. I also loved how towards the end, it connected back to the first few sentences of the book. Lastly, I loved that the author included a sliver of hope lightening my heart a little, giving me peace to turn the final page.
Thank you Pansing for sending me a free copy of this book to read and review. This book is available at all good bookstores in Malaysia and Singapore.
I was sad that I did not love this story more. It was written very well with a dynamic plot and an interesting story. It was gripping and full of hopelessness especially how women were treated in those times. No child should live through these kind of conditions, forced to mature to survive a brutal world.
Unfortunately, I did not love the characters very much. I mean, I can see how the characters worked really with the story. They grew and matured throughout the story. But I did not connect with them more than that.
What I really enjoyed though was the plot twist though it was almost towards the end. I also loved how towards the end, it connected back to the first few sentences of the book. Lastly, I loved that the author included a sliver of hope lightening my heart a little, giving me peace to turn the final page.
Thank you Pansing for sending me a free copy of this book to read and review. This book is available at all good bookstores in Malaysia and Singapore.
April 26, 2021
A book about female power in the man's world when those concepts were in a very distant future. This felt like a very special story of its own kind. It had an authenticity that made it feel almost too real.
I took part in a seminar with the author about the book's initial beginnings as a PHD research on how it feels to be bilingual. This made me more aware of the different shades of the languages of Britons and the Saxons in the story and the special, creative ways of expression (the idioms, the adjectives and the character of the language). Elen Caldecott does an outstanding job depicting how the language you speak changes the way you feel and its connection to identity. She is also masterful at imagining different ways that women may seek for power when it is scarce in the social system around them. There's the brave kind that offers men the gifts of storytelling and intuition, the obedient, the charming and the mousy ones that look for breadcrumbs of power while hiding in plain sight.
The story held my attention with the foreshadowed plot twist, two intertwining timelines and the themes of freedom and sisterhood against all odds.
I took part in a seminar with the author about the book's initial beginnings as a PHD research on how it feels to be bilingual. This made me more aware of the different shades of the languages of Britons and the Saxons in the story and the special, creative ways of expression (the idioms, the adjectives and the character of the language). Elen Caldecott does an outstanding job depicting how the language you speak changes the way you feel and its connection to identity. She is also masterful at imagining different ways that women may seek for power when it is scarce in the social system around them. There's the brave kind that offers men the gifts of storytelling and intuition, the obedient, the charming and the mousy ones that look for breadcrumbs of power while hiding in plain sight.
The story held my attention with the foreshadowed plot twist, two intertwining timelines and the themes of freedom and sisterhood against all odds.
August 5, 2020
This action-packed story is set in Britain at a time when the Saxons were moving in to claim the land as their own. It reminded me of the Eagle of the Ninth books by Rosemary Sutcliff and surely deserves to take a place along that series as a classic in its own right. Caldecott's use of lyrical language echoes narrator Mai's native Welsh (or "British") in its lilting cadence and use of description that mirrors the rolling landscape in which she lives. Mai is a warm, brave, compelling narrator to whom I was immediately drawn as a reader, and my heart was in my mouth at the twists and turns of the plot which saw her lurch from crisis to crisis. This is a story as much about identity, community and nationality as it is about sisterhood and friendship and it couldn't come at a better time for young readers of today. One of the best books for older children that I have read for a very long time.
January 20, 2022
1.5 Stars
I'm gonna to be quite frank here, to me, this was boring as heck and it's sad how this had so much potential as well.
Mai was VERY naive at the start, and slowly but surely the author attempts to start making her act like she finally knows what's going on in the cruel world. To act as mouse, a mouse with no presence, a mouse that could easily be overlooked. Though, I can say that she absolutely failed to properly act like one, so, I guess she attempted to act like a mouse?
In the end she still didn't realise that her sister was only trying to protect her and she still thinks that she betrayed her.
The men here were all portrayed as scum(excluding their 'Tad' of course) and the only character that I can say that I actually liked was probably Sara, it would have been interesting to see her back story, but, of course that never happened.
I'm gonna to be quite frank here, to me, this was boring as heck and it's sad how this had so much potential as well.
Mai was VERY naive at the start, and slowly but surely the author attempts to start making her act like she finally knows what's going on in the cruel world. To act as mouse, a mouse with no presence, a mouse that could easily be overlooked. Though, I can say that she absolutely failed to properly act like one, so, I guess she attempted to act like a mouse?
In the end she still didn't realise that her sister was only trying to protect her and she still thinks that she betrayed her.
The men here were all portrayed as scum(excluding their 'Tad' of course) and the only character that I can say that I actually liked was probably Sara, it would have been interesting to see her back story, but, of course that never happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2020
I was surprised by this book and by how much I enjoyed it. The portrayal of Britannia with its history of the ruling Roman empire that is gone few decades ago and new rulers, Saxons, who over empower the locals made a super interesting read for me. I don't know much about this part od the British history and it made me want to know more.
I also like how the story in the books is not some epic adventure but small story of a girl and her sister who has to somehow make a living in this new terrifying world. Her personal small victories and tragedies that are nothing comparing to the history of her people but everything to her made this story to feel important, emotional and somehow relatable.
I also like how the story in the books is not some epic adventure but small story of a girl and her sister who has to somehow make a living in this new terrifying world. Her personal small victories and tragedies that are nothing comparing to the history of her people but everything to her made this story to feel important, emotional and somehow relatable.
May 11, 2021
Not a period of history often used in fiction, I found this a well researched and compelling read. The characters were both convincing and complex, how they adapted to the changing world around them being particularly well done. You got a good feel for the trauma of the Saxon invasions on the British population, the sudden upheaval and precariousness of their existence and what people had to do to survive. My only quibble was you didn't really get a true sense of where in Britain they were, of the actual landscape, but it was only a mild one. Generally I found this well written and a really good read.
My thanks to #NetGalley and Anderson Press for the ARC in return for an honest review
My thanks to #NetGalley and Anderson Press for the ARC in return for an honest review
February 26, 2021
Focusing on the time between the Romans and the Saxons in Britain, The Short Knife is a historical fiction that feels like it has a hint of fantasy purely because of the unknown magic of the time period.
The plot was slow and took me a little while to get into, but I thought the structure was very well done. I found it hard to connect to any of the characters really and started to skim read around the middle, but I am grand that I finished it because the ending was unexpected and intense!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The plot was slow and took me a little while to get into, but I thought the structure was very well done. I found it hard to connect to any of the characters really and started to skim read around the middle, but I am grand that I finished it because the ending was unexpected and intense!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2024
A coming of age story set in Britain, not long after the end of the Roman occupation.
It follows 13 year old Mai and the fight to survive with her older sister Haf and their father. It's gritty and atmospheric and covers some darker themes within the context of a YA novel. You really get a feel for the time period and how chaotic and brutal it could be.
Mai is an endearing heroine and the story is full of interesting and well rounded characters. Despite the doom and gloom of the story it is essentially about family, love and hope.
It follows 13 year old Mai and the fight to survive with her older sister Haf and their father. It's gritty and atmospheric and covers some darker themes within the context of a YA novel. You really get a feel for the time period and how chaotic and brutal it could be.
Mai is an endearing heroine and the story is full of interesting and well rounded characters. Despite the doom and gloom of the story it is essentially about family, love and hope.
December 8, 2021
I really liked the plot twist at the end of the book. I re-read the first chapter and I realised that Mai wasn't referring to her real sister Haf but her 'adopted' sister Viola! Very cleverly done.
I disliked Haf, especially whenever she interacted with Mai and basically told Mai that everything was her fault like when she fainted in the tomb. Part of me really wanted to tell Haf to go and do some labour like Mai instead of spinning tales and putting the blame on her younger sister.
I disliked Haf, especially whenever she interacted with Mai and basically told Mai that everything was her fault like when she fainted in the tomb. Part of me really wanted to tell Haf to go and do some labour like Mai instead of spinning tales and putting the blame on her younger sister.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2023
2 stars, but I'll give it three only because there isn't much children's fiction set in this time period of the early middle ages where you have the Romano-Britons vs the Anglo-Saxons.
The story itself was ok, but the over-use of compound adjectives wore thin quickly (the word "snake" - snake-slithering, snake-cunning, snake-eyed, etc) was used four times within just a few pages and 'mouse-something' was used in every chapter).
It definitely glossed over the fact that these girls would likely have been raped in several scenarios (it's strongly hinted that Haf was some sort of sex slave, but Mai never thinks of this) but other scenes of murder and death were described in gory detail.
I didn't particularly like any of the characters, and in the .
I had high expectations of this after it won the Tir na n-Og (English language) Award and these expectations were not met.
Other reviewers have said there is a "twist". What twist? The fact the
The story itself was ok, but the over-use of compound adjectives wore thin quickly (the word "snake" - snake-slithering, snake-cunning, snake-eyed, etc) was used four times within just a few pages and 'mouse-something' was used in every chapter).
It definitely glossed over the fact that these girls would likely have been raped in several scenarios (it's strongly hinted that Haf was some sort of sex slave, but Mai never thinks of this) but other scenes of murder and death were described in gory detail.
I didn't particularly like any of the characters, and in the .
I had high expectations of this after it won the Tir na n-Og (English language) Award and these expectations were not met.
Other reviewers have said there is a "twist". What twist? The fact the
October 11, 2023
So so so many adjectives and adverbs following every move and every breath of characters. At some point it began to annoy me. Taking those out of the text wouldn’t change anything. It almost felt like describing things for the sake of using more words instead of adding the context/atmosphere.
Beginning and the end of the book were really engaging. I liked last 10 chapters the most. Some twists were predictable but still satisfying to read. Middle part of the book was sloooooow.
Beginning and the end of the book were really engaging. I liked last 10 chapters the most. Some twists were predictable but still satisfying to read. Middle part of the book was sloooooow.
April 28, 2021
Full of character and conviction.
This is a compelling book. Although a constant battle against adversity, the sense of hope and strength reigns supreme and drives the story which is brilliantly told.
This is a compelling book. Although a constant battle against adversity, the sense of hope and strength reigns supreme and drives the story which is brilliantly told.
July 27, 2021
It wasn’t a normal genre for me so it did take me a few chapters to get into it. Once I was in I was hooked! I thought this book was amazing, the way the storyline is laid out is perfect and at the end I was very pleased I’d chose it
November 1, 2021
Such an interesting book, it is written very dynamically with you getting several surprises as you read, at first it's a little boring but by about a third of the way through you realise you are completely hooked which caught me by surprise, i couldn't put the book down, a great read.
September 6, 2025
A frustrating book to read It just shows repeatedly how people 's self-centred emotions can put others in danger and the ability of humans to be unbelievably cruel to their fellow human beings. The short knife does give one a feeling being present in a far of time, in that it succeeds
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