Review of Once Was Willem by M.R. Carey
There’s something truly enchanting about the way M.R. Carey constructs worlds filled with rich detail, intriguing characters, and an essence of wonder intertwined with darkness. Having adored his works in the Rampart Trilogy, the announcement of Once Was Willem immediately piqued my interest. I couldn’t help but feel drawn to a story narrated by Willem, a boy resurrected in a way that transforms him into something both haunting and heartwarming. My curiosity about his journey only deepened as I turned the pages, and I’m thrilled to share my thoughts with you.
At its core, Once Was Willem explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of found family. Willem, who dies at just twelve, comes back to life—not as the same boy, but as a “mishappen monster.” His struggle with this new identity—haunted by his appearance and rejected by his own parents—struck a chord with me. It’s a poignant reflection on how society often fears what it doesn’t understand. As readers, we find ourselves rooting for Willem, and as he seeks acceptance among a group of unlikely friends, it’s impossible not to be moved by the warmth that radiates from their camaraderie.
The pacing is deliberate and meandering, much like Willem’s scattered thoughts. While some might find this slow at times, I found it delightful. It felt akin to taking a leisurely stroll through a medieval landscape, allowing Carey to immerse us in both Willem’s past and the tangled lives of the villagers. I adored how Willem’s voice was almost omniscient, offering glimpses into the lives of his neighbors and their intertwined fates, reflecting the complexity of community life. The occasional detours in the narrative, initially puzzling, ultimately unfolded to reveal their significance, a testament to Carey’s masterful storytelling.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was the vivid world-building. Carey evokes a medieval England drenched in magic, horror, and folklore. The characters, like the shapeshifting siblings Anna and Kel or the poignant ghost Morjune, are wonderfully well-developed, each carrying their own stories of grief and bravery. It was heartening to see Willem find his true family among “the seven,” who defy the societal norms that shun them. The friendships he forms are beautifully written, adding layers of richness to his growth and journey.
As I turned the final pages, I felt a deep sense of connection with these characters. The intensity of the last chapters had my heart racing, as Willem and his friends confronted the sinister sorcerer Cain Caradoc. Carey infuses the climax with raw emotion, leaving readers lingering in the aftermath of both triumph and sorrow. As I closed the book, I realized I had not only been entertained but deeply touched by a narrative that underscores the importance of acceptance and the beauty of forging one’s own path.
Once Was Willem is a gem for those who appreciate layered storytelling filled with nuance and emotional depth. It’s perfect for fantasy lovers who enjoy tales of resilience and the redemptive power of friendship. If you find yourself craving a story that draws you in slowly, allowing you to savor each moment, this book is certainly for you. My reading experience was rich, and I wouldn’t hesitate to revisit Willem and his friends again. It’s a journey well worth taking!