"Burial Rites" is beautifully written & captures atmosphere of cold and poverty in 18th century Iceland. Its characters and central themes are introduced slowly, allowing interest and suspense to build inexorably. One of those rare books that I both couldn't wait to finish but at the same time dreaded to be over.

This book was quite enjoyable and interesting from an historical perspective, but I thought it could have been done better.

A lovely read that demonstrated that things are not always black and white

I really enjoyed this book. The storyline so unlike anything I had read before and the historical descriptions very real, adding to the discomfort and hardship of the characters. I loved it and look forward to reading more from this young emerging author

When I began reading this, I found it a bit hard-going as I really didn't like Agnes at all. In fact, as I came to understand as I got further into the book, I was seeing her exactly as those around her did, without giving her the benefit of getting to know her.
It didn't take too long to become utterly absorbed with this, however, and wow, what a book. Two years later I still remember it vividly, especially the descriptions of the landscape and the wonderful character of Agnes in particular. There is a reason that every publisher is looking for the next Burial Rites, or saying they've found it (but in my opinion none have yet come close) and that is that Burial Rites is a brilliant book, and an incredible debut. Definitely one of my favourite books.

Based on the true tale of Agnes Magnusdottir, the last person executed in Iceland, this is a suspenseful, thought-provoking read. Although we already know the ending, the anticipation builds throughout. I really wanted to know from Agnes' own mouth whether she did what she was accused of, and if so, why? You will want to know, too. You'll just have to read it to find out.

A beautifully written, fascinating story that totally grabs you, so that you just want to keep reading. Historically it is also fascinating, as it paints a horrifying picture of how Iceland functioned in 1829 and how it tragically dealt with those who had no status.

Burial Rites by Hannah Kent tells the story of hot passion in a cold climate. A beautifully written but very sombre story.

Brilliant read. So well put together.

So hauntingly real you can smell and taste and feel the time and place of the story. Because of the exposed emotions of the main players and those brought out in the reader, the characters have stayed with me long after I put the book down.