Despite being a constant reader it isn't often that I find a book that keeps me up reading at night. That was until I read Burial Rites by Hannah Kent.
Burial Rites tells the tale of an Icelandic murderess and is based on the true story of murderess Agnes Magnúsdóttir. This is a story that has been written multiple times, sometimes protraying her as innocent and sometimes as guilty. Hannah Kents attempt was to tell a more ambigous tale which I think she managed quite well.
The story is told from Agnes's perspective as she relates her tale and surrounding events to the family forced to host her and her priest. Hannah Kent utilises translations and adaptations of letters and manuscripts in order to bring you out of the story at vital moments. She also portrays Agnes as guilty but gives her innocent reasons for commiting her crime.
This is a brilliantly written book that is well worth the hype. Have you found any addictive books lately? Until next time,
Catherine.
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