Status
Available
Call number
Series
Collection
Publication
Del Rey (2017), 384 pages
Description
Fantasy. Fiction. Literature. HTML:A remarkable young woman blazes her own trail, from the backwoods of Russia to the court of Moscow, in the exhilarating sequel to Katherine Arden�s bestselling debut novel, The Bear and the Nightingale. Katherine Arden�s enchanting first novel introduced readers to an irresistible heroine. Vasilisa has grown up at the edge of a Russian wilderness, where snowdrifts reach the eaves of her family�s wooden house and there is truth in the fairy tales told around the fire. Vasilisa�s gift for seeing what others do not won her the attention of Morozko�Frost, the winter demon from the stories�and together they saved her people from destruction. But Frost�s aid comes at a cost, and her people have condemned her as a witch. Now Vasilisa faces an impossible choice. Driven from her home by frightened villagers, the only options left for her are marriage or the convent. She cannot bring herself to accept either fate and instead chooses adventure, dressing herself as a boy and setting off astride her magnificent stallion Solovey. But after Vasilisa prevails in a skirmish with bandits, everything changes. The Grand Prince of Moscow anoints her a hero for her exploits, and she is reunited with her beloved sister and brother, who are now part of the Grand Prince�s inner circle. She dares not reveal to the court that she is a girl, for if her deception were discovered it would have terrible consequences for herself and her family. Before she can untangle herself from Moscow�s intrigues�and as Frost provides counsel that may or may not be trustworthy�she will also confront an even graver threat lying in wait for all of Moscow itself. Praise for The Girl in the Tower �[A] magical story set in an alluring Russia.��Paste �Arden�s lush, lyrical writing cultivates an intoxicating, visceral atmosphere, and her marvelous sense of pacing carries the novel along at a propulsive clip. A masterfully told story of folklore, history, and magic with a spellbinding heroine at the heart of it all.��Booklist (starred review)�[A] sensual, beautifully written, and emotionally stirring fantasy . . . Fairy tales don�t get better than this.��Publishers Weekly (starred review) �[Katherine] Arden once again delivers an engaging fantasy that mixes Russian folklore and history with delightful worldbuilding and lively characters.��Library Journal.… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member Yirra2112
[I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley for review purposes.]
The Bear and the Nightengale introduced us to a world in transition. A child growing, religion shifting, a family coming together and falling apart. The Girl in the Tower shares much of what made its predecessor charming
It’s tempting to call this a coming of age tale, but I think that would be an oversimplification and a bit of an injustice to the depth of the story. Vasya isn’t just growing up, she did a lot of that already in the first book. She’s growing outward, changing the world around her as much as the world around her influences who she is becoming. Her strength comes from herself, but she finds much of her courage in her deep desire to protect those she loves, and her pride is balanced by her care for others. So I think instead, this is a tale of what it means to be human. Discovering the price of freedom, even as you relish it and whether or not you are willing to pay that price. Discovering the importance of family, even when they are being a righteous pain (Vasya is not the only person in this story to face significant trials and tribulations). Even the otherworldly pagan spirits she encounters are a reflection of our faith in them, our need for certain truths of the human experience to have a face to lend them some relatability, to diminish some of the fearful mystery of the unknown parts of each person’s journey through life. We desire protection of our homes (and stables), recognizable faces for the threats that linger in dark forests, and we always, always need to have some form for the presence of death. So Vasya journeys through this story, learning when to be strong, when to rely on the help of others (as none of us exist alone, she must learn to relent her pride a little when it is good to do so) and when embrace anger and compassion.
This is a wonderful sequel to what was a fantastic debut story, and left me looking forward to the next book in the trilogy. I’ve often found that the second book in a trilogy may be a weak link, lacking its own momentum in the interest of furthering the first tale or setting up for the coming book, but happily this isn’t the case for Arden’s Winternight Trilogy. If you enjoyed the first book, the second will be a page turning pleasure.
The Bear and the Nightengale introduced us to a world in transition. A child growing, religion shifting, a family coming together and falling apart. The Girl in the Tower shares much of what made its predecessor charming
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and engaging, but has a new and different focus. Vasya is no longer a carefree spritely child in the country side. She finds herself entangled in the world of men, wholly immersed in the struggles of society and politics, fighting for freedom. Freedom for herself, her family, her people. It’s tempting to call this a coming of age tale, but I think that would be an oversimplification and a bit of an injustice to the depth of the story. Vasya isn’t just growing up, she did a lot of that already in the first book. She’s growing outward, changing the world around her as much as the world around her influences who she is becoming. Her strength comes from herself, but she finds much of her courage in her deep desire to protect those she loves, and her pride is balanced by her care for others. So I think instead, this is a tale of what it means to be human. Discovering the price of freedom, even as you relish it and whether or not you are willing to pay that price. Discovering the importance of family, even when they are being a righteous pain (Vasya is not the only person in this story to face significant trials and tribulations). Even the otherworldly pagan spirits she encounters are a reflection of our faith in them, our need for certain truths of the human experience to have a face to lend them some relatability, to diminish some of the fearful mystery of the unknown parts of each person’s journey through life. We desire protection of our homes (and stables), recognizable faces for the threats that linger in dark forests, and we always, always need to have some form for the presence of death. So Vasya journeys through this story, learning when to be strong, when to rely on the help of others (as none of us exist alone, she must learn to relent her pride a little when it is good to do so) and when embrace anger and compassion.
This is a wonderful sequel to what was a fantastic debut story, and left me looking forward to the next book in the trilogy. I’ve often found that the second book in a trilogy may be a weak link, lacking its own momentum in the interest of furthering the first tale or setting up for the coming book, but happily this isn’t the case for Arden’s Winternight Trilogy. If you enjoyed the first book, the second will be a page turning pleasure.
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LibraryThing member ThePortPorts
I received this as an ARC through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program.
I was excited to crack open this book; I'd listened to the audio version of the Bear and the Nightingale and enjoyed it a lot. This follow-up novel, however, just didn't grab me. I had to really push myself to read it, and
There is nothing overtly wrong with this book, and it's hard for me to figure out what my trouble is. Basically, I found myself very much NOT invested in the characters. I like Vasya well enough, but clearly not enough to finish the book to find out what happens.
So two stars. I'm sure there are many who will enjoy this book, but for me it just wasn't compelling enough to spend more time with it.
I was excited to crack open this book; I'd listened to the audio version of the Bear and the Nightingale and enjoyed it a lot. This follow-up novel, however, just didn't grab me. I had to really push myself to read it, and
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finally I decided that I was going to move on. I got about halfway through before giving up.There is nothing overtly wrong with this book, and it's hard for me to figure out what my trouble is. Basically, I found myself very much NOT invested in the characters. I like Vasya well enough, but clearly not enough to finish the book to find out what happens.
So two stars. I'm sure there are many who will enjoy this book, but for me it just wasn't compelling enough to spend more time with it.
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LibraryThing member acargile
If you haven’t read The Bear and the Nightingale by Arden, you must read it first. I thought the story had ended, but The Girl in the Tower is the next “chapter” in the Russian fairy tale about Vasya. This novel releases in December of 2017.
The “Prologue” is the end of the first book
Vasya determines to be a Traveler in a world that doesn’t allow for this choice. She must leave, as her people fear her a witch and would kill her. Jumping onto Solovey, Vasya sets out from the Frost King. As a girl, she is in great danger, so she travels as a boy. With each danger, Vasya is fast or clever enough to get away. When she isn’t, she is rescued, saved from death several times, yet she fails to understand why she is being saved. Ultimately, she is needed. She is a bridge between the old ways and the new ways; she is a girl who can see the creatures who need gifts given to them to keep the homes, stables, etc. safe. People no longer believe in these old ways and have stopped giving offerings to them. Therefore, the creatures are fading, including the Frost King. Vasya’s ability to see them and tend to them keeps them from fading for moments. She also represents the new world. She wants to be free; as a female, her only choices are marriage or going into the convent. She is a force of nature--impetuous, courageous, and free-spirited--someone not meant for marriage or solitary convents. Instead, she has the courage and faith to face the evils that are encroaching upon the country.
Vasya reunites with her siblings after showing great courage rescuing girls who had been kidnapped and has been praised for “his” bravery. “He” is well-liked by the Grand Prince, Sasha’s friend, but the lie is a dangerous one. Another man watches Vasya closely after appearing from nowhere and unknown to all the people in Moscow despite being a large land owner. Sasha and Olga’s precarious lives are in the hands of Vasya who doesn’t understand the intrigues and dangers of life in Moscow. As they don’t explain the direness of their situations, Vasya cannot be blamed for failing to comprehend how her actions reflect on them.
What appears to be and actually is permeates much of the novel. Each character has a face he/she must present, but falsehoods exist for all. Even Vasya knows what to hide of her abilities and what layer of truth she can give her siblings about what happened back home. The creatures can only be seen by a few, yet they exist. To find the Frost Kind, Vasya must unfocus or focus in to find movement on the edge of her vision. With secrets and the forgotten past, Moscow is doomed to fall. Vasya may be the only hope--if she can find the truth about herself and the Frost King.
The novel is full of action and the pacing is perfect. At times I was exasperated with Vasya because she was following her own ideas instead of being careful. She never intends harm, but she moves too quickly to stop and think. This quickness also, paradoxically, works well for her. She can follow her instincts, which saves people. I loved this novel as much as the first. I’m purposefully not revealing much of the plot because it’s such a pleasure to let a plot unfold and ride along with it. If you already know what’s going to happen, the book loses its exciting qualities. I am now fascinated with Russian fairy tales and want to read more--probably because Ms. Arden writes beautifully. I feel like I am in these worlds; I see the winter, the trees, the creatures, and I am startled back into the real world when my reading time is up. I highly recommend both novels.
The “Prologue” is the end of the first book
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repeated. Part I begins the new story--Vasya’s family in Moscow. Olga and Sasha have been in Moscow for many years now, having never visited home again. Life here is treacherous. Sasha is a monk, a sword-handling monk who often fights to defend the Grand Prince as others try to unseat him. The political situations of the various leaders are tenuous at best. Olga’s life is just as tenuous. She is only safe if she follows the “rules” of her station and her husband maintains their family’s control. Vasya determines to be a Traveler in a world that doesn’t allow for this choice. She must leave, as her people fear her a witch and would kill her. Jumping onto Solovey, Vasya sets out from the Frost King. As a girl, she is in great danger, so she travels as a boy. With each danger, Vasya is fast or clever enough to get away. When she isn’t, she is rescued, saved from death several times, yet she fails to understand why she is being saved. Ultimately, she is needed. She is a bridge between the old ways and the new ways; she is a girl who can see the creatures who need gifts given to them to keep the homes, stables, etc. safe. People no longer believe in these old ways and have stopped giving offerings to them. Therefore, the creatures are fading, including the Frost King. Vasya’s ability to see them and tend to them keeps them from fading for moments. She also represents the new world. She wants to be free; as a female, her only choices are marriage or going into the convent. She is a force of nature--impetuous, courageous, and free-spirited--someone not meant for marriage or solitary convents. Instead, she has the courage and faith to face the evils that are encroaching upon the country.
Vasya reunites with her siblings after showing great courage rescuing girls who had been kidnapped and has been praised for “his” bravery. “He” is well-liked by the Grand Prince, Sasha’s friend, but the lie is a dangerous one. Another man watches Vasya closely after appearing from nowhere and unknown to all the people in Moscow despite being a large land owner. Sasha and Olga’s precarious lives are in the hands of Vasya who doesn’t understand the intrigues and dangers of life in Moscow. As they don’t explain the direness of their situations, Vasya cannot be blamed for failing to comprehend how her actions reflect on them.
What appears to be and actually is permeates much of the novel. Each character has a face he/she must present, but falsehoods exist for all. Even Vasya knows what to hide of her abilities and what layer of truth she can give her siblings about what happened back home. The creatures can only be seen by a few, yet they exist. To find the Frost Kind, Vasya must unfocus or focus in to find movement on the edge of her vision. With secrets and the forgotten past, Moscow is doomed to fall. Vasya may be the only hope--if she can find the truth about herself and the Frost King.
The novel is full of action and the pacing is perfect. At times I was exasperated with Vasya because she was following her own ideas instead of being careful. She never intends harm, but she moves too quickly to stop and think. This quickness also, paradoxically, works well for her. She can follow her instincts, which saves people. I loved this novel as much as the first. I’m purposefully not revealing much of the plot because it’s such a pleasure to let a plot unfold and ride along with it. If you already know what’s going to happen, the book loses its exciting qualities. I am now fascinated with Russian fairy tales and want to read more--probably because Ms. Arden writes beautifully. I feel like I am in these worlds; I see the winter, the trees, the creatures, and I am startled back into the real world when my reading time is up. I highly recommend both novels.
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LibraryThing member Nightwing
What a great book! It works very well as a stand-alone story, while following nicely along the path started by The Bear and the Nightingale. An interesting use of fairy tales to show the horror and joy that was medieval Russia.
LibraryThing member melaniehope
This book begins where The Bear and the Nightingale leave off. I loved it almost more than the first. Katherine Arden is a wonderful storyteller. Her writing is so mesmerizing, I feel like I am right in the middle of her story. I love the setting of old world Moscow. Vasya is such a strong female
I love these fairytales and I love this author. Highly recommend this book! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
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character. She is unable to accept the role of docile wife and so takes her life into her own hands. This time, she finds herself rescuing a group of children from the clutches of evil bandits. This action however, catches the eye of the Grand Prince of Moscow. He believes her to be a boy. She is reunited with her brother and sister, who are now a part of the Grand Prince's inner circle. The tension mounts as her siblings try to keep Vasya's true identity hidden. However, trouble begins to stir and Vasya is unable to control the forces of evil that threaten to overtake all of Moscow. I love these fairytales and I love this author. Highly recommend this book! I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.
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LibraryThing member janerawoof
Continuation of the marvelous amalgamation of medieval Russia and its folklore, concentrating on Vasilisa Petrovna, the maiden who disguises herself as a boy to escape either marriage or the convent. She wants to travel and see the world with her stalwart horse, Solovey. She and he can communicate
Highly recommended. I strongly advise reading the first volume of the trilogy, Bear and the Nightingale, before reading this book though.
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with each other. She overcomes bandits who have kidnapped three little girls then trying to maintain the fiction of her identity, saves Moscow and its Grand Prince, Dmitri Ivanovich by outwitting and killing an evil traitor. The spirits of Russian fantasy all take part and comment on the action, from the frost-demon, Morozko; domovoi: house spirits; banniki; bath-house spirits and the Firebird.Highly recommended. I strongly advise reading the first volume of the trilogy, Bear and the Nightingale, before reading this book though.
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LibraryThing member TempleCat
Ah, The Tower. Such an enduring symbol in folklore and fantasy! It projects an aura of not only protectiveness and safety, but also frequently detains and keeps secret its cloistered, maybe even captive inhabitants. In The Girl in the Tower, the second book of an enthralling trilogy, the tower in
Vasya, whom we met in the first novel of this trilogy, The Bear and the Nightingale, has never wanted to come anywhere near such an institution. She was a fey spirit as a child in the earlier story, seeing and talking with the actual household and nature spirits populating her home and village, and she hasn't changed as a young woman in this story. She most desires to be free (what many other people call "wild") and wilfully lives accordingly. As a young child, because she believed in the actuality of these spirits and wasn't sufficiently deferential to the social customs, the people in her rural village branded her a witch. When her nasty stepmother vowed to tame her (and get rid of her) by putting her in a convent, Vasya ran away into the forest, in the middle of winter, to avoid both immanent stoning, the common punishment for witchcraft, as well as the loathsome future her stepmother was forcing upon her. Through the patronage of Morozko, AKA Frost, the spirit of winter, AKA the death god, Vasya survives, but soon asserts her independence and, pretending to be a boy, becomes a "traveller," a wanderer seeking experience of the world. This is where we pick up her story.
Of course, such assertiveness and "uppityness" in a woman in medieval Russia does not go unnoticed, by malevolent spirits as well as evil people. The old Russian fairy tale of Morozko, expanded in The Bear and the Nightingale, turns into an enthralling fantasy story in The Girl in the Tower, with Vasya growing into a brave and generous young woman (though trying hard to hide her identity.) Society's pressures to conform continue to operate and Vasya must not only face the rigors and dangers of life on the trail, she must also avoid scrutiny in the cities, including Moscow, she so wants to see.
This fantasy, while full of exciting and suspenseful events, also takes up some serious issues - the effect of belief over rationality; the force of religion, both benevolent and nefarious, over civil society; the nature of reality; and, most particularly in this second book of the trilogy, the censures and strictures placed on a woman by society, limiting her freedom and demeaning her spirit. A pivotal issue is the notion of fantasy, itself. Vasya does perceive and commune with the chyerti, the various spirits of Russian folklore - the guardian of the household, the guardian of the bathhouse, the Midnight Woman who causes children's nightmares, the black bird who speaks prophesy, Morozko, the frost demon death god, etc. For Vasya and select others, these spirits are real and their forces shape the narrative; for the rest of the populace, however, they are the stuff of folklore, they are fantasies. The Christian church in medieval Russia actively battles these spirits, preaching that such entities are fantasies not to be believed. The effect on the spirits is that they slowly fade away, for they require people's belief in order to exist.
While she has been aided by a benevolent Morozko, Vasya, as she grows into adulthood, comes to believe that that aid was not selflessly given, but was a ploy by Morozko to retain Vasya's belief and thus ensure his own continued existence. Vasya's changing relationship with Morozko is but one example of her maturation and fierce independence, but her perception that she was used, voiced to Morozko, causes an internal dilemma for him as well: how can a death god rationally seek immortality?
I am enthusiastic about this book. Upon reaching the conclusion, I wanted more, and I wanted it now! Thank goodness The Girl in the Tower is the second book of a trilogy. I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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question is the locale of a terem, in medieval Russia a conclave of highborn women and girls who have been secluded away from society, ostensibly for their own protection from the depravity of men and society in general. This terem is headed by Olga, a matronly princess and the older sister of the protagonist, Vasya, a fiercely independent young woman. Vasya, whom we met in the first novel of this trilogy, The Bear and the Nightingale, has never wanted to come anywhere near such an institution. She was a fey spirit as a child in the earlier story, seeing and talking with the actual household and nature spirits populating her home and village, and she hasn't changed as a young woman in this story. She most desires to be free (what many other people call "wild") and wilfully lives accordingly. As a young child, because she believed in the actuality of these spirits and wasn't sufficiently deferential to the social customs, the people in her rural village branded her a witch. When her nasty stepmother vowed to tame her (and get rid of her) by putting her in a convent, Vasya ran away into the forest, in the middle of winter, to avoid both immanent stoning, the common punishment for witchcraft, as well as the loathsome future her stepmother was forcing upon her. Through the patronage of Morozko, AKA Frost, the spirit of winter, AKA the death god, Vasya survives, but soon asserts her independence and, pretending to be a boy, becomes a "traveller," a wanderer seeking experience of the world. This is where we pick up her story.
Of course, such assertiveness and "uppityness" in a woman in medieval Russia does not go unnoticed, by malevolent spirits as well as evil people. The old Russian fairy tale of Morozko, expanded in The Bear and the Nightingale, turns into an enthralling fantasy story in The Girl in the Tower, with Vasya growing into a brave and generous young woman (though trying hard to hide her identity.) Society's pressures to conform continue to operate and Vasya must not only face the rigors and dangers of life on the trail, she must also avoid scrutiny in the cities, including Moscow, she so wants to see.
This fantasy, while full of exciting and suspenseful events, also takes up some serious issues - the effect of belief over rationality; the force of religion, both benevolent and nefarious, over civil society; the nature of reality; and, most particularly in this second book of the trilogy, the censures and strictures placed on a woman by society, limiting her freedom and demeaning her spirit. A pivotal issue is the notion of fantasy, itself. Vasya does perceive and commune with the chyerti, the various spirits of Russian folklore - the guardian of the household, the guardian of the bathhouse, the Midnight Woman who causes children's nightmares, the black bird who speaks prophesy, Morozko, the frost demon death god, etc. For Vasya and select others, these spirits are real and their forces shape the narrative; for the rest of the populace, however, they are the stuff of folklore, they are fantasies. The Christian church in medieval Russia actively battles these spirits, preaching that such entities are fantasies not to be believed. The effect on the spirits is that they slowly fade away, for they require people's belief in order to exist.
While she has been aided by a benevolent Morozko, Vasya, as she grows into adulthood, comes to believe that that aid was not selflessly given, but was a ploy by Morozko to retain Vasya's belief and thus ensure his own continued existence. Vasya's changing relationship with Morozko is but one example of her maturation and fierce independence, but her perception that she was used, voiced to Morozko, causes an internal dilemma for him as well: how can a death god rationally seek immortality?
I am enthusiastic about this book. Upon reaching the conclusion, I wanted more, and I wanted it now! Thank goodness The Girl in the Tower is the second book of a trilogy. I hope we don't have to wait too long for the next installment.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member nbmars
Note: Some spoilers for the first book in the series.
This is the second book in a trilogy that began with The Bear and the Nightingale, and which combines elements of a fairytale retelling, historical fiction, and fantasy. I read the first book a year ago, and had a hard time, when I began this
The story is set in the mid-1300’s in Russia, or Rus’, as it was called then. The country had been Christian for five hundred years, but the populace, hedging their bets, still honored the gods of Russian folklore, paying tribute to the spirits of the household and the land by leaving regular offerings to them.
Vasilisa Petrovna, called Vasya, can see these spirits, as well as other beings, and she can hear voices no one else can. She is the granddaughter of a woman rumored to be the swan-maiden of fairy tales, and who also had these “gifts of sight.”
Vasya is free-spirited and fearless. She not only inherited her grandmother’s sight but her father’s kindness. She talks to the horses, takes care of the household spirits, and becomes beloved by all of them. But in the first book, she ran away from her family to avoid an arranged marriage. In the process of trying to find her, both her father and stepmother were killed. Her own life was saved by Morozko, the Winter-King, or as he is also known, the Frost-Demon.
In this book, the relationship between Vasya and Morozko takes on new depth, as Morozko struggles with his feelings for Vasya. He knows that “you cannot love and be immortal,” so he literally faces a situation of “damned if you do, damned if you don’t.” In a nice use of metaphor, Morozko explains to his companion mare: “…every time I go near her, the bond tightens. What immortal ever knew what it was like to number his days? Yet I can feel the hours passing when she is near.”
Morozko wants Vasya to return to her family where she will be safer than traveling on her own. She tells him:
“You may tell me to go home, but I may choose not to. Do you think that is all I want, in all my life - a royal dowry, and a man to force his children into me? No, I am going on. I will see the world beyond this forest, and I will not count the cost.”
Morozko asks her at least to promise to wear the sapphire her father gave her always, no matter the circumstances. She does not know the significance of the jewel, other than the emotional attachment to it she feels because it came from her father. Morozko tells her it will offer her protection.
In other chapters, we follow what is happening with Vasya’s brother Sasha, now known as the monk Brother Aleksandr Persvet, or Aleksandr Lightbringer. He is acting as a counsel to his cousin and good friend Dmitrii Ivanovich, Grand Prince of Moscow. As this book begins, mysterious bandits have been burning villages and taking young girls as captives, leaving no trace of who they are or where they are headed. The two are about to take armed forces to go see what is happening when they are approached by Kasyan Lutovich, a previously unknown-to-them boyar who also complains about the bandits, and asks for assistance in fighting them. Thus they all set out together.
After days of no success, the group takes refuge at Trinity Lavra, Sasha and Dmitrii’s old monastery, which is some 40 miles northeast of Moscow. To Sasha’s shock, Vasya shows up there, disguised as the boy Vasilii Petrovich, and bringing with her three little girls she rescued from the bandits. She is riding the magnificent and not-quite-human horse Solovey she got from Morozko. Sasha is forced, for Vasya’s own safety, to introduce her as his brother, all the while rueing the need to deceive Dmitrii. He takes Vasya to their sister Olga, hoping she can salvage the situation. Olga, heavily pregnant, is exasperated that she has been dragged into the deception, putting her and her family at risk. They are all the more in danger because, as Vasya discovers, one of Olga’s daughters, Marya, has also inherited sight. This could get her labeled, as Vasya was, as a witch.
Tension escalates as they discover who Kasyan really is, and the extent to which they all face death and the city of Moscow possible destruction. They are all the more at risk because Vasya gave back the protective sapphire to Morozko. Up to the very end of the book, there is no guarantee of who will live and who will die.
Discussion: There is a great deal in this book about life in feudal Russia, especially with respect to the friction between religion and pagan traditions. There is also a lot about gender roles, and the resentment of females (at least those not co-opted by socialization) to getting assigned to roles of less moment and interest than those of males.
Morozko, the Russian winter demon who was seen as sometimes a force of good and sometimes of evil, is turning into more and more of a sympathetic character; in many ways, he is the best character of this second book. The only mystery is what draws him so much to Vasya, who, like many teen heroines, is bratty, stubborn, and disagreeable even though she is spirited, brave, and more devoted to justice for the people than its rulers.
Evaluation: The prose definitely evokes the tone of fairy tales, and the historical aspects dovetail nicely with the plot and add a nice flavor to the story. There is a helpful glossary in the back of the book for Russian terms. I liked this second book better than the first.
Recommended for fans of fairy tales and historical fantasies.
This is the second book in a trilogy that began with The Bear and the Nightingale, and which combines elements of a fairytale retelling, historical fiction, and fantasy. I read the first book a year ago, and had a hard time, when I began this
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one, remembering what was going on. The author provides some background sporadically, but basically I would advise this not be read as a standalone.The story is set in the mid-1300’s in Russia, or Rus’, as it was called then. The country had been Christian for five hundred years, but the populace, hedging their bets, still honored the gods of Russian folklore, paying tribute to the spirits of the household and the land by leaving regular offerings to them.
Vasilisa Petrovna, called Vasya, can see these spirits, as well as other beings, and she can hear voices no one else can. She is the granddaughter of a woman rumored to be the swan-maiden of fairy tales, and who also had these “gifts of sight.”
Vasya is free-spirited and fearless. She not only inherited her grandmother’s sight but her father’s kindness. She talks to the horses, takes care of the household spirits, and becomes beloved by all of them. But in the first book, she ran away from her family to avoid an arranged marriage. In the process of trying to find her, both her father and stepmother were killed. Her own life was saved by Morozko, the Winter-King, or as he is also known, the Frost-Demon.
In this book, the relationship between Vasya and Morozko takes on new depth, as Morozko struggles with his feelings for Vasya. He knows that “you cannot love and be immortal,” so he literally faces a situation of “damned if you do, damned if you don’t.” In a nice use of metaphor, Morozko explains to his companion mare: “…every time I go near her, the bond tightens. What immortal ever knew what it was like to number his days? Yet I can feel the hours passing when she is near.”
Morozko wants Vasya to return to her family where she will be safer than traveling on her own. She tells him:
“You may tell me to go home, but I may choose not to. Do you think that is all I want, in all my life - a royal dowry, and a man to force his children into me? No, I am going on. I will see the world beyond this forest, and I will not count the cost.”
Morozko asks her at least to promise to wear the sapphire her father gave her always, no matter the circumstances. She does not know the significance of the jewel, other than the emotional attachment to it she feels because it came from her father. Morozko tells her it will offer her protection.
In other chapters, we follow what is happening with Vasya’s brother Sasha, now known as the monk Brother Aleksandr Persvet, or Aleksandr Lightbringer. He is acting as a counsel to his cousin and good friend Dmitrii Ivanovich, Grand Prince of Moscow. As this book begins, mysterious bandits have been burning villages and taking young girls as captives, leaving no trace of who they are or where they are headed. The two are about to take armed forces to go see what is happening when they are approached by Kasyan Lutovich, a previously unknown-to-them boyar who also complains about the bandits, and asks for assistance in fighting them. Thus they all set out together.
After days of no success, the group takes refuge at Trinity Lavra, Sasha and Dmitrii’s old monastery, which is some 40 miles northeast of Moscow. To Sasha’s shock, Vasya shows up there, disguised as the boy Vasilii Petrovich, and bringing with her three little girls she rescued from the bandits. She is riding the magnificent and not-quite-human horse Solovey she got from Morozko. Sasha is forced, for Vasya’s own safety, to introduce her as his brother, all the while rueing the need to deceive Dmitrii. He takes Vasya to their sister Olga, hoping she can salvage the situation. Olga, heavily pregnant, is exasperated that she has been dragged into the deception, putting her and her family at risk. They are all the more in danger because, as Vasya discovers, one of Olga’s daughters, Marya, has also inherited sight. This could get her labeled, as Vasya was, as a witch.
Tension escalates as they discover who Kasyan really is, and the extent to which they all face death and the city of Moscow possible destruction. They are all the more at risk because Vasya gave back the protective sapphire to Morozko. Up to the very end of the book, there is no guarantee of who will live and who will die.
Discussion: There is a great deal in this book about life in feudal Russia, especially with respect to the friction between religion and pagan traditions. There is also a lot about gender roles, and the resentment of females (at least those not co-opted by socialization) to getting assigned to roles of less moment and interest than those of males.
Morozko, the Russian winter demon who was seen as sometimes a force of good and sometimes of evil, is turning into more and more of a sympathetic character; in many ways, he is the best character of this second book. The only mystery is what draws him so much to Vasya, who, like many teen heroines, is bratty, stubborn, and disagreeable even though she is spirited, brave, and more devoted to justice for the people than its rulers.
Evaluation: The prose definitely evokes the tone of fairy tales, and the historical aspects dovetail nicely with the plot and add a nice flavor to the story. There is a helpful glossary in the back of the book for Russian terms. I liked this second book better than the first.
Recommended for fans of fairy tales and historical fantasies.
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LibraryThing member Hccpsk
Most of the major characters from Katherine Arden’s first book (The Bear and the Nightingale) return to continue to story of Vasilisa in The Girl in the Tower. She cannot stay in her village after the events that ended the first book, so she sets off on her magical stallion, Solovey, to travel
(I agree with other reviewers that although the story is good enough to stand alone, the author does not provide a lot of the background story so it is best read after The Bear and the Nightingale.)
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the world. Of course things do not go as planned, and all of the dark, magical, and wonderful chaos that we enjoyed in the first book ensues. Arden again manages to weave together supernatural folklore, detailed historical elements and an edge of your seat plot that does not disappoint. Often the middle book of a trilogy falls short as a bridge between the author’s beginning and ending, but not this time—I enjoyed this book as much if not more than the first. It will be a long wait for the finale!(I agree with other reviewers that although the story is good enough to stand alone, the author does not provide a lot of the background story so it is best read after The Bear and the Nightingale.)
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LibraryThing member JLSlipak
A Russian Fairytale!
Oct 26 2017 – 09:21
By J.L. Slipak
An eye for detail, a way with words and a voice provocative and alluring, this author has it all. The cover is suggestive of those seen on fairytales, very pretty and somewhat mysterious. The story flows nicely pushing forward at a
The plot itself is very interesting, a worthy successor to the first book and is full of rich characters, mysterious hidden meanings and beautifully written settings. Not only did I find this quick glimpse fascinating, I found it exciting and I can't wait to read more!
Oct 26 2017 – 09:21
By J.L. Slipak
An eye for detail, a way with words and a voice provocative and alluring, this author has it all. The cover is suggestive of those seen on fairytales, very pretty and somewhat mysterious. The story flows nicely pushing forward at a
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comfortable pace, making the reader want more. Transition from one scene to the next is smooth and enticing. The ease of reading gives this story the ability to hold the reader's attention from one plot moment to another. The plot itself is very interesting, a worthy successor to the first book and is full of rich characters, mysterious hidden meanings and beautifully written settings. Not only did I find this quick glimpse fascinating, I found it exciting and I can't wait to read more!
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LibraryThing member Beammey
This is a brilliant second book in the series and stands up well the the first. The story continues in much the same intriguing way that you just can't put the book down. I can't give away details because this is a sequel, but this series is worth the read. There's a bit of something for everyone.
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I would recommend it. Plus, those covers though. 5 out of 5 stars. Show Less
LibraryThing member Cherylprazak
I did not know what to expect when I started this book, but it was definitely not that I would fall in love with it. The Girl in the Tower is the sequel to The Bear and the Nightingale, which takes place in Russia. At the end of the last book, Vasya accidentally kills her father and runs away
The beginning of this book was a little slow for me, but it quickly picked up the pace and soon made me never want to put down the book. Katherine Arden has masterly crafted a beautiful and magical world mixed in with the nonfiction Russia. I have fallen in love with all of the characters especially Vasya who is a smart young girl that is very brave. She is constantly running into trouble, but always finds a way out of it. I also feel very connected with Vasya’s horse, Solovey, because he is a magical horse that can talk to Vasya and give her advice. All of the characters were very well created and have so many different depths to them.
I greatly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to find out what happens in the third installment in the series. I will miss the characters and the world that Arden created. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone that love YA fantasy novels and awesome main characters that are super valiant and daring.
I received this book for free from Library Things courtesy of Penguin Random house in exchange for an honest review.
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letting rumors spread about her dying and her dad being killed by a bear in the woods. While in hiding, Vasya dresses up as a boy and soon finds a village where 3 girls have been taken by a group of bandits that had burned everything. Vasya takes it upon herself to save these 3 girls where she soon finds her cousin (the prince) and her brother (a monk that ran away from home). Her brother pleads her to escape while she can before her disguise is uncovered, however her cousin continues to become attached to the brave Vasya. This books follows the plot of Vasya hiding her gender and pretending to be someone else while uncovering the bandits that keep burning down villages. The beginning of this book was a little slow for me, but it quickly picked up the pace and soon made me never want to put down the book. Katherine Arden has masterly crafted a beautiful and magical world mixed in with the nonfiction Russia. I have fallen in love with all of the characters especially Vasya who is a smart young girl that is very brave. She is constantly running into trouble, but always finds a way out of it. I also feel very connected with Vasya’s horse, Solovey, because he is a magical horse that can talk to Vasya and give her advice. All of the characters were very well created and have so many different depths to them.
I greatly enjoyed reading this book and cannot wait to find out what happens in the third installment in the series. I will miss the characters and the world that Arden created. I would definitely recommend this series to anyone that love YA fantasy novels and awesome main characters that are super valiant and daring.
I received this book for free from Library Things courtesy of Penguin Random house in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member Beamis12
4.5 I have never been a fantasy reader, not sure if this is even considered fantasy. I have, however, always enjoyed history and ancient myths. I like to consider these books folklore and legend brought to life, but may be fooling myself. Either way I fell in love with book one, eagerly awaited
Medieval Russia, superstitions at the forefront, many believe but few can see these creatures of ancient myth. Those who can risk being labeled and burned as a witch. Vasya is one, but she is also a young woman who refuses to slot herself into the limited role available to women. Marry young, bear many children or get thyself to the nunnery. I adore this young woman, her fearlessness, how she refuses to settle for less than she thinks she is capable of, and the way she incorporates and uses what she sees. Her magical horse Solovney, who can hear and understand human speech, who protects Vasya,time and time again. The strange background of her own family which comes into play in this outing, when she finds herself in Moscow, disguised as a young boy. The winter king, the man made of ice and snow, death disguised, with his chilling pale blue eyes, who comes to her aid many times.
Arden has done such a magnificent job, creating this time period and inserting the reader into the magic that lives all around us if we could only see. There is magic, family, folklore, the arising power of the church, battles, adventure, political uprisings so much. All done cleverly, fitting pieces within pieces to bring color, and personality into this cleverly crafted world. She notes that she has tried to stay true to the history of this period, and this adds an authentic feel to this entertaining story. Such a harsh, bewildering time, so much uncertainty for those in power and those who are not. Now I eagerly await the third in this trilogy, but I already know I will be sad to read the end.
ARC from Librarything and edelweiss.
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this book two, fell into both with immense interest and joy.Medieval Russia, superstitions at the forefront, many believe but few can see these creatures of ancient myth. Those who can risk being labeled and burned as a witch. Vasya is one, but she is also a young woman who refuses to slot herself into the limited role available to women. Marry young, bear many children or get thyself to the nunnery. I adore this young woman, her fearlessness, how she refuses to settle for less than she thinks she is capable of, and the way she incorporates and uses what she sees. Her magical horse Solovney, who can hear and understand human speech, who protects Vasya,time and time again. The strange background of her own family which comes into play in this outing, when she finds herself in Moscow, disguised as a young boy. The winter king, the man made of ice and snow, death disguised, with his chilling pale blue eyes, who comes to her aid many times.
Arden has done such a magnificent job, creating this time period and inserting the reader into the magic that lives all around us if we could only see. There is magic, family, folklore, the arising power of the church, battles, adventure, political uprisings so much. All done cleverly, fitting pieces within pieces to bring color, and personality into this cleverly crafted world. She notes that she has tried to stay true to the history of this period, and this adds an authentic feel to this entertaining story. Such a harsh, bewildering time, so much uncertainty for those in power and those who are not. Now I eagerly await the third in this trilogy, but I already know I will be sad to read the end.
ARC from Librarything and edelweiss.
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LibraryThing member CurrerBell
5*****, though perhaps not quite as good as its predecessor, The Bear and the Nightingale. This second installment has a little more "swords and sandals" warfare to it that takes something away from the "fairy tale" element. Still 5***** though, and I'll be awaiting the third and final installment
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of the trilogy. Show Less
LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
I loved this book. Absolutely loved it. I really liked the first book in the series, The Bear and The Nightingale, so I was looking forward to reading this second installment. I enjoyed this book even more than the first. I was completely swept away by the story and wanted to savor every word. I
Vasya is such a wonderful character. She doesn't quite fit in with what would be expected of a proper lady. She actually spends most of this book posing as a boy. She doesn't want the life that would be expected of her as a lady. She wants to see the world and do some good. She does what is right even when those actions put her at risk.
Vasya strikes out on her own along with her trusted horse, Solovey. Solovey is quite the traveling companion and is really a strong character throughout the story. She finds villages that have been burned with many dead and their daughters taken by bandits. She sets out to find the girls of a village after some advice from one of the local spirits. One thing leads to another and she ends up seeking refuge in the same location as her brother and the Grand Prince.
It was great to see Vasya's brother, Sasha, and her sister, Olga, both have important roles in this story. Vasya's actions will not only have an impact on her own life but could also influence how people see her family members. Another character that I really enjoyed in this book was Morozko, the frost demon. He is drawn to Vasya and his feelings for her are complicated.
This book pulled me in almost immediately and never let go. There was so much excitement in the overall story. There are battles and violent scenes offset by moments of tenderness and caring. The descriptions really brought the story to life. The writing was absolutely wonderful.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is the second book of a trilogy that really needs to be read in order because the events of the first book are often discussed. I found this book to be a simply wonderful fairy tale of a story. I can't wait to see what happens next in the trilogy!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray directly and through NetGalley.
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honestly didn't want the story to end. This is the kind of book that made me fall in love with reading and I know that I will reading this story again in the future. Vasya is such a wonderful character. She doesn't quite fit in with what would be expected of a proper lady. She actually spends most of this book posing as a boy. She doesn't want the life that would be expected of her as a lady. She wants to see the world and do some good. She does what is right even when those actions put her at risk.
Vasya strikes out on her own along with her trusted horse, Solovey. Solovey is quite the traveling companion and is really a strong character throughout the story. She finds villages that have been burned with many dead and their daughters taken by bandits. She sets out to find the girls of a village after some advice from one of the local spirits. One thing leads to another and she ends up seeking refuge in the same location as her brother and the Grand Prince.
It was great to see Vasya's brother, Sasha, and her sister, Olga, both have important roles in this story. Vasya's actions will not only have an impact on her own life but could also influence how people see her family members. Another character that I really enjoyed in this book was Morozko, the frost demon. He is drawn to Vasya and his feelings for her are complicated.
This book pulled me in almost immediately and never let go. There was so much excitement in the overall story. There are battles and violent scenes offset by moments of tenderness and caring. The descriptions really brought the story to life. The writing was absolutely wonderful.
I would highly recommend this book to others. This is the second book of a trilogy that really needs to be read in order because the events of the first book are often discussed. I found this book to be a simply wonderful fairy tale of a story. I can't wait to see what happens next in the trilogy!
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray directly and through NetGalley.
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LibraryThing member irregularreader
Fair warning: this is the second book in the Winternight trilogy. There’s definitely going to be spoilers ahead for the first book in the series, The Bear and the Nightingale. If you want, you can read my review of that book
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Vasya has been driven from her village after the deaths of her father and stepmother. The options are slim for a young woman in medieval Russia — convent or marriage. Vasya, ever seeking to be her own master, decides to create a third option: to wander the vast expanses of Rus’ disguised as a boy, and explore the wide world now open to her. But the road and the places upon it are dangerous. Unnatural and vicious bandits are plundering remote towns in northern Rus’, and political intrigue and betrayal surround the residents of Moscow. Pulled into the events of the larger world, Vasya finds herself walking on a knife’s edge to help her family and her country, and to safeguard her precious freedom.
I simply adore this series. The Bear and the Nightingale was one of those delightful little surprises you come across occasionally. Expecting a typical historical fantasy, I found myself enveloped in a fairy tale story richly woven through with historical detail and living, breathing characters. The Girl in the Tower stays true to form. Arden’s careful attention to detail, and phenomenal gift for bringing fully-fleshed characters to her tales are undiminished in the second book.
Vasya has become a bit older and harder than last we saw her, but still retains her close ties with the many spirits who inhabit her world. Her choices and their consequences are rarely easy, and we get to see her grow and change as the plot moves along. Her relationship with Morozko, the winter demon is well done. No sappy love story here, but a subtler, bittersweet rapport that feels much more real.
If you enjoyed The Bear and the Nightingale, then you’ll most likely love the continuation to the story. Fans of fantasy, fairy tales, and magic should definitely check out this phenomenal and original series.
An advance copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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here.____________________________________________________________________
Vasya has been driven from her village after the deaths of her father and stepmother. The options are slim for a young woman in medieval Russia — convent or marriage. Vasya, ever seeking to be her own master, decides to create a third option: to wander the vast expanses of Rus’ disguised as a boy, and explore the wide world now open to her. But the road and the places upon it are dangerous. Unnatural and vicious bandits are plundering remote towns in northern Rus’, and political intrigue and betrayal surround the residents of Moscow. Pulled into the events of the larger world, Vasya finds herself walking on a knife’s edge to help her family and her country, and to safeguard her precious freedom.
I simply adore this series. The Bear and the Nightingale was one of those delightful little surprises you come across occasionally. Expecting a typical historical fantasy, I found myself enveloped in a fairy tale story richly woven through with historical detail and living, breathing characters. The Girl in the Tower stays true to form. Arden’s careful attention to detail, and phenomenal gift for bringing fully-fleshed characters to her tales are undiminished in the second book.
Vasya has become a bit older and harder than last we saw her, but still retains her close ties with the many spirits who inhabit her world. Her choices and their consequences are rarely easy, and we get to see her grow and change as the plot moves along. Her relationship with Morozko, the winter demon is well done. No sappy love story here, but a subtler, bittersweet rapport that feels much more real.
If you enjoyed The Bear and the Nightingale, then you’ll most likely love the continuation to the story. Fans of fantasy, fairy tales, and magic should definitely check out this phenomenal and original series.
An advance copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member Eileen.Dandashi
Author Katherine Arden paints a picture with her eloquent prose capturing ancient winter in Russia, where people are vulnerable to the cold and the mythological protectors of the mankind can only be strong against evil if men believe in them. The old ways are weakening, belief in one god is
Vasilisa is a unique girl, now a young woman who sees these small creatures who protect the world, as her mother did before. Seeking a new life outside her small village, Morozko, the winter demon of old mythological stories Vasilisa learned at her mother’s knee, comes to her aid. Rather than receiving her at death, he steps in to give her life.
Dressed as a young boy, she travels to a castle where she meets her brother who she hasn’t seen in eight years. They are kindred in more ways than siblings. They each have the curiosity of life and learning which makes it hard for Sasha to do what he feels is right for his sister. What woman can remain secreted in boy’s clothing?
As the story moves forward, unraveling Vasilisa’s deception is no longer easy. When it’s discovered, all that her brother wants to avoid happens. Disgrace for him, his older sister and Vasilisa.
Solovey (magic speaking horse), adores Vasilisa and is a huge help to her on the way to discovering the world. He empowers Vasilisa to escape or fight for her safety and as it happens, for others who she finds unjustly treated or injured.
This is a story where I fell in love with so many of the characters. If you are interested in the read, which I hope you are, start with book one, The Bear and the Nightingale. Author Arden has written a beguiling series with surprises, where evil is just out of reach, prodding my curiosity who the bad characters are and who ultimately is behind all the evil.
A complimentary ARC was provided to me for an honest, unbiased review.
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sweeping the lands even into small villages and hovels. I felt my feet were knee-deep snow all the time, with blazing cold surrounding me.Vasilisa is a unique girl, now a young woman who sees these small creatures who protect the world, as her mother did before. Seeking a new life outside her small village, Morozko, the winter demon of old mythological stories Vasilisa learned at her mother’s knee, comes to her aid. Rather than receiving her at death, he steps in to give her life.
Dressed as a young boy, she travels to a castle where she meets her brother who she hasn’t seen in eight years. They are kindred in more ways than siblings. They each have the curiosity of life and learning which makes it hard for Sasha to do what he feels is right for his sister. What woman can remain secreted in boy’s clothing?
As the story moves forward, unraveling Vasilisa’s deception is no longer easy. When it’s discovered, all that her brother wants to avoid happens. Disgrace for him, his older sister and Vasilisa.
Solovey (magic speaking horse), adores Vasilisa and is a huge help to her on the way to discovering the world. He empowers Vasilisa to escape or fight for her safety and as it happens, for others who she finds unjustly treated or injured.
This is a story where I fell in love with so many of the characters. If you are interested in the read, which I hope you are, start with book one, The Bear and the Nightingale. Author Arden has written a beguiling series with surprises, where evil is just out of reach, prodding my curiosity who the bad characters are and who ultimately is behind all the evil.
A complimentary ARC was provided to me for an honest, unbiased review.
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LibraryThing member renbedell
An absolutely amazing follow up to The Bear and the Nightingale that I feel is even better. The book follows Vasya as she makes her way to Moscow. Just like the first book, she interacts with various fey creatures, although most of the encounters are flavor or character building and not as integral
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to the main plot. This story highlights more of Vasya's strength and desire to break free of the limitations that the culture puts on her for her gender. I believe this to be a much more inspiring story to not be held back by cultural norms. This is a very well written book that has a strong protagonist and interesting supporting characters. The plot is again a typical fairy tale story that brings new ideas and twists into it. The book also has a complete ending, but a general direction implied on where the next book will go. Show Less
LibraryThing member bookappeal
This second book of the trilogy, free of the need to build a world of harsh winters and old Russian folk stories and already familiar to readers, is able to tell a faster-moving plot while continuing to build on the character of Vasilisa. Driven out of her homeland, Vasya becomes a traveller with
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nothing but self-confidence and her loyal stallion as protection. As it is not prudent for a woman to travel alone, Vasya dons the clothing and attitude of a young man - inexperienced but brave and capable. But trouble is never far behind Vasya - startling revelations and difficult choices await. Show Less
LibraryThing member TheHallowWillow
As well written and magical as the first book. I really related to Vasya, and the worldbuilding in this book is lush. The writing is beautiful. This series is definitely one of my favorite.
LibraryThing member ladycato
I received this book via Netgalley.
The Bear and the Nightingale was one of my favorite books last year, so my expectations for the sequel were quite high. The book absolutely lived up to them. Where the first explored medieval Russia and its mythology in the deep wilderness, Girl takes readers
Vasya and her magical horse are the central characters, and make me yearn for more books about women with magical horses. Vasya's brother and sister also play important roles. While the book is not a romance, there is a central romantic relationship with gentle yet considerable tension. One of the great joys in these books is Vasya's awareness and consideration of the spirits still found in Russia, despite the din of church bells. The atmosphere of magic is incredible and cozy, and leave me yearning for more books from this author.
The Bear and the Nightingale was one of my favorite books last year, so my expectations for the sequel were quite high. The book absolutely lived up to them. Where the first explored medieval Russia and its mythology in the deep wilderness, Girl takes readers
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through the countryside and into the intrigues of Moscow.Vasya and her magical horse are the central characters, and make me yearn for more books about women with magical horses. Vasya's brother and sister also play important roles. While the book is not a romance, there is a central romantic relationship with gentle yet considerable tension. One of the great joys in these books is Vasya's awareness and consideration of the spirits still found in Russia, despite the din of church bells. The atmosphere of magic is incredible and cozy, and leave me yearning for more books from this author.
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LibraryThing member amanda4242
The Girl in the Tower is a fantastic read! It also does something that I've found increasingly rare in second installments of trilogies: it leaves openings for the third book, but still tells a complete story in its own right.
LibraryThing member quondame
The Girl in the Tower is in no way any let down from The Bear and the Nightingale , Katherine Arden's first novel. Vasya takes to the forest paths, medieval Russia being rather short on roads, passing a youth, intermittently aided by Morozoko. There she discovers capabilities and dangers, meets up
The claustrophobia of the first volume is almost gone from this one, but always looms, particularly in the scenes in the Terem, most of which feature Olga, Vasya's older sister. The winter forest is very much a character in Vasya's travels, as is the city of Moscow when the Vasya arrives there still disguised as a boy, with the Grand Prince's party.
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with her brother the monk Sasha and the Grand Prince of Moscow, and finds more dangers and temptations among men than in the forest. She also learns again that the price for doing what she wants can be very high indeed and that she is not the only one who must pay.The claustrophobia of the first volume is almost gone from this one, but always looms, particularly in the scenes in the Terem, most of which feature Olga, Vasya's older sister. The winter forest is very much a character in Vasya's travels, as is the city of Moscow when the Vasya arrives there still disguised as a boy, with the Grand Prince's party.
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LibraryThing member cwhisenant11
I love this series so much! This book was just as captivating and thrilling as the first. Many questions are answered regarding Vasya’s heritage and her relationship with the Winter King. I can’t wait to read the last book.
LibraryThing member pennma05
If you have not yet read book 1, The Bear and the Nightingale, I would highly suggest that you read it ASAP and proceed through this review at your own risk of potential spoilers.
This book was one of my #1 anticipated reads, originally of 2018 until the publication date was bumped up to December
I loved all of the mystery surrounding this book. I had a vague guess regarding a certain character but never expected the full extent of the reveal involving said character. The blend of historical fiction and fantasy make such a great combination that I think really adds to the mystery of the story. Once you hit just past the halfway mark, events really start to amp up and it almost hits thriller mode. As soon as Vasya enters Moscow, there is such a buzz of energy in the pages, you just know something major is going to happen. There is so much excitement and drama that it is really hard to put the book down. I found myself devouring every page as fast as I possibly could because I couldn’t get enough. Prepare yourself for an array of emotions… I often found myself wanting to laugh, tear up, and sit anxiously at the edge of my seat. I’ve never been a huge fan of winter, but Katherine Arden has been changing my mind lately with her beautiful writing. I am very eagerly anticipating the release of book 3 later in 2018 because I am dying to know what happens next!
I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This book was one of my #1 anticipated reads, originally of 2018 until the publication date was bumped up to December
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2017. It did not let me down at all. The gorgeous writing and imagery of the first book, The Bear and the Nightingale, continued throughout the story of Vasya as a young woman as she makes some of the toughest decisions in her life. Vasya continues to show her strength and spunk as she becomes a traveler, wanting to see all that the world has to offer. But it doesn’t take long for things to make a turn for the worse. She must hide her true identity as Vasilisa, a girl, and become Vasilii and hope that nobody finds out, especially her cousin, the Grand Prince of Moscow. What she doesn’t know is that not everybody buys her disguise…I loved all of the mystery surrounding this book. I had a vague guess regarding a certain character but never expected the full extent of the reveal involving said character. The blend of historical fiction and fantasy make such a great combination that I think really adds to the mystery of the story. Once you hit just past the halfway mark, events really start to amp up and it almost hits thriller mode. As soon as Vasya enters Moscow, there is such a buzz of energy in the pages, you just know something major is going to happen. There is so much excitement and drama that it is really hard to put the book down. I found myself devouring every page as fast as I possibly could because I couldn’t get enough. Prepare yourself for an array of emotions… I often found myself wanting to laugh, tear up, and sit anxiously at the edge of my seat. I’ve never been a huge fan of winter, but Katherine Arden has been changing my mind lately with her beautiful writing. I am very eagerly anticipating the release of book 3 later in 2018 because I am dying to know what happens next!
I received an advance copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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Awards
Language
Original publication date
2017-12
Physical description
384 p.; 9.56 inches
ISBN
1101885963 / 9781101885963