DISCORD
Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil
V. E. Schwab
Barnes & Noble Bestsellers
123 Min Reading Time
Audio Version Available
About this book
From V.E. Schwab, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, comes a genre-defying epic about immortality, hunger, and the insatiable depths of the human heart.
This is a story about hunger, love, and rage, woven through centuries and connected by blood.
In 1532, María, a young woman in Santo Domingo de la Calzada, dreams of escaping the confines of her fate. Offered an alternate path by an alluring stranger, she makes a desperate choice, vowing to live without regrets.
In 1827 London, Charlotte's idyllic life is shattered by a forbidden intimacy. Exiled to the city, she finds herself swept into a dangerous world by a beautiful widow, where freedom comes at a terrifying price.
In 2019 Boston, Alice seeks a new beginning in college, far from her old life. But a reckless encounter awakens a hunger she can’t explain, plunging her into a quest for answers and a thirst for revenge.
Prepare to be devoured. This is a story about life—how it ends, and how it begins.
Summary of Key Ideas
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The Dark and Hungry Reality of Vampirism
The novel explores the dark allure and brutal reality of vampirism, portraying it not merely as a supernatural gift, but as a curse that fundamentally alters the characters' existence. It delves into the physical and emotional hunger that defines their undead lives, examining how this insatiable need impacts their relationships, choices, and sense of self. The narrative emphasizes the sacrifices and moral compromises inherent in their survival, illustrating the heavy price they pay for immortality. Vampirism is depicted as a catalyst for both monstrous acts and profound self-discovery, revealing the complex interplay between power, desire, and the loss of humanity.
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Queer Identity and Love Against Societal Norms
A central theme revolves around the exploration of queer identity and love in a historical context, giving voice to marginalized experiences and desires. The relationships between the female characters challenge societal norms and expectations, portraying love and intimacy outside the constraints of heteronormative structures. The novel examines the complexities of these bonds, highlighting both the joy and the challenges faced by queer individuals navigating a world that often seeks to suppress or condemn them. Through these intimate connections, the story celebrates the resilience and strength found in embracing one's true self, even in the face of adversity.
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Intertwined Destinies of Women Across Time
The narrative intricately weaves together the stories of three women across different historical periods, highlighting the enduring nature of female experiences and struggles. It explores how societal expectations, gender roles, and historical events shape their individual journeys and destinies. Through their interconnected narratives, the novel examines themes of female empowerment, resilience, and the bonds of sisterhood, demonstrating the strength and resourcefulness women exhibit in navigating patriarchal societies and overcoming personal challenges. Their stories serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of women throughout history.
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The Seduction and Corruption of Power
The novel delves into the themes of power and agency, examining how these concepts are both gained and lost through the characters' transformations and choices. It explores the seductive nature of power, particularly in the context of vampirism, and its potential to corrupt or liberate. The characters grapple with the consequences of their decisions, confronting the ethical dilemmas that arise from wielding supernatural abilities and navigating complex social hierarchies. The story ultimately raises questions about the true nature of power and its impact on individual autonomy and moral responsibility.
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Death, Rebirth, and the Price of Transformation
The story explores the themes of death, rebirth, and transformation, using vampirism as a metaphor for profound personal change. It examines how the characters confront their mortality, grapple with loss, and ultimately redefine themselves in the face of extraordinary circumstances. The transformation into a vampire represents a symbolic death of their former selves, followed by a rebirth into a new existence marked by both power and peril. The novel delves into the psychological and emotional impact of this transformation, illustrating how it forces the characters to confront their deepest fears, desires, and ultimately, their true identities.
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Legacy and the Enduring Impact of Choices
The novel explores the concept of legacy and the lasting impact of one's actions across generations. As the characters navigate their immortal lives, they become acutely aware of the consequences of their choices and the potential to shape the future. The story examines how their actions ripple through time, influencing the lives of others and creating a complex web of interconnected destinies. Ultimately, the narrative raises questions about the meaning of immortality and the responsibility that comes with the ability to leave a lasting mark on the world.
Chapter Recap
About The Author
V. E. Schwab
Main Quotes
"It does not matter whether you drink a carafe or drain a city. The hunger will not ease."
"Bury my bones in the midnight soil, plant them shallow and water them deep, and in my place will grow a feral rose, soft red petals hiding sharp white teeth."
"You are the kind of bloom that thrives in any soil."
"The joy and hope and sorrow. It will make your life harder, but it will also make it beautiful."
"This is a story about hunger."
"There is no gentle waking, no state of in-between. One moment Sabine is dead to the world, and the next she is back in the barn, alive. Awake."
"And this is not magic. It's medicine."
"Sabine hungered both literally and metaphorically to an extent that alienated her from others and that existed even before she was traumatized."
"Set over 500 years, this tale of three sapphic vampires is a story about hunger, rage and the ways in which women are told to be satiated even when they aren't."
"A young girl grows up wild and wily—her beauty is only outmatched by her dreams of escape."
Who Should Read This Book
Readers of adult fantasy and horror fiction
Fans of V.E. Schwab's previous works
Readers interested in historical fiction with dark themes
Individuals who enjoy stories featuring vampires and LGBTQ+ representation
Readers seeking character-driven narratives with morally complex characters
Those interested in stories exploring themes of revenge, obsession, and toxic relationships
Book Summaries Like
Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil
FAQ
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