Status
Available
Call number
Series
Collections
Publication
Del Rey (2019), 384 pages
Description
Fantasy. Fiction. Literature. HTML:NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER � Following their adventures in The Bear and the Nightingale and The Girl in the Tower, Vasya and Morozko return in this stunning conclusion to the bestselling Winternight Trilogy, battling enemies mortal and magical to save both Russias, the seen and the unseen. �A tale both intimate and epic, featuring a heroine whose harrowing and wondrous journey culminates in an emotionally resonant finale.��Publishers Weekly (starred review) NAMED ONE OF PASTE�S BEST FANTASY BOOKS OF THE DECADE Vasilisa Petrovna is an unforgettable heroine determined to forge her own path. Her gifts and her courage have drawn the attention of Morozko, the winter-king, but it is too soon to know if this connection will prove a blessing or a curse. Now Moscow has been struck by disaster. Its people are searching for answers�and for someone to blame. Vasya finds herself alone, beset on all sides. The Grand Prince is in a rage, choosing allies that will lead him on a path to war and ruin. A wicked demon returns, determined to spread chaos. Caught at the center of the conflict is Vasya, who finds the fate of two worlds resting on her shoulders. Her destiny uncertain, Vasya will uncover surprising truths about herself as she desperately tries to save Russia, Morozko, and the magical world she treasures. But she may not be able to save them all. Praise for The Winter of the Witch �Katherine Arden�s Winternight Trilogy isn�t just good�it�s hug-to-your-chest, straight-to-the-favorites-shelf, reread-immediately good, and each book just gets better. The Winter of the Witch plunges us back to fourteenth-century Moscow, where old gods and new vie for the soul of Russia and fate rests on a witch girl�s slender shoulders. Prepare to have your heart ripped out, loaned back to you full of snow and magic, and ripped out some more.��Laini Taylor �Luxuriously detailed yet briskly suspenseful . . . a striking literary fantasy informed by Arden�s deep knowledge.��Kirkus Reviews (starred review).… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member Skybalon
Possibly the best book of the series. Just get the whole series and read it. You'll learn a little Russian history, mythology, and have a great time doing it. Well worth the read.
LibraryThing member patriciau
I’d hoped to spend the weekend reading this end to the gorgeous Winternight Trilogy. Alas, that didn’t happen....because I finished it in a day.
I’ve written before that Arden’s writing is lyrical, lush, and full of magic and mystery; it will keep you reading well into the night.
I will honestly say that the Harry Potter series, which I have adored for more than 20 years, has been replaced by Arden’s Winternight Trilogy. The story takes the fairy tales of my childhood and makes them flesh in a way that left me breathless. Arden has brought the tales begun in The Bear and the Nightingale full circle and created a tale for the ages.
I don’t buy a lot of print books these days, but I have purchased a set of these books and will keep and re-read them for years to come.
Someone please make this a Netflix series!
I’ve written before that Arden’s writing is lyrical, lush, and full of magic and mystery; it will keep you reading well into the night.
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Truthfully, I haven’t loved a series as much since I first read Harry Potter.I will honestly say that the Harry Potter series, which I have adored for more than 20 years, has been replaced by Arden’s Winternight Trilogy. The story takes the fairy tales of my childhood and makes them flesh in a way that left me breathless. Arden has brought the tales begun in The Bear and the Nightingale full circle and created a tale for the ages.
I don’t buy a lot of print books these days, but I have purchased a set of these books and will keep and re-read them for years to come.
Someone please make this a Netflix series!
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LibraryThing member feeroberts64
The Winter of the Witch by Katherine Arden is the final installment of the Winternight Trilogy. Moscow is on the brink of war, and the plague has come, and one witch girl, Vasya, is determined to do what must be done to save her city.
This was an excellent ending to a wonderful story of one girl's
A must read for anyone looking for a strong female protagonist.
This was an excellent ending to a wonderful story of one girl's
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determination and strength. Katherine Arden's ability to draw the reader in and hold them is outstanding. A brilliantly written novel of self discovery, determination, strength, love, and doubt in oneself make this one of my favorite stories.A must read for anyone looking for a strong female protagonist.
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LibraryThing member ladycato
I received this book through Netgalley.
The previous two books in the Winternight Trilogy are among my favorites in recent years. Therefore, my expectations were quite high. Winter of the Witch lived up to my hopes, and made me fight tears a few times along the way.
This is a series set in medieval
There is a major heartbreaking incident that happens early on in the book. It's so devastating, it might make some readers stop. DON'T. Really. Dry your eyes and keep reading. This book is by no means a perky, happily-ever-after sort, but neither is it a grimdark bloodbath. Instead, it continues the vibe of the previous two books and manages to be fresh and vibrant and nostalgic all at once.
The previous two books in the Winternight Trilogy are among my favorites in recent years. Therefore, my expectations were quite high. Winter of the Witch lived up to my hopes, and made me fight tears a few times along the way.
This is a series set in medieval
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Russia where folktale creatures exist, but are dying as people turn more to the church than to them. Vasya straddles both worlds, and fits in neither--and to complicate things more, she's a woman (a noblewoman at that). Arden's prose is gorgeous, and she writes Vasya as a strong, smart heroine who makes mistakes, learns from them, and does not give up. A romantic element is gentle and complicated all at once, and deftly handled.There is a major heartbreaking incident that happens early on in the book. It's so devastating, it might make some readers stop. DON'T. Really. Dry your eyes and keep reading. This book is by no means a perky, happily-ever-after sort, but neither is it a grimdark bloodbath. Instead, it continues the vibe of the previous two books and manages to be fresh and vibrant and nostalgic all at once.
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LibraryThing member Verkruissen
The Winter of the Witch is the third and (sadly) final book in an amazing series by Katherine Arden. Thank you to Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this beautifully written book.
This book picks up where the last book ended and the charismatic priest Konstantin Nikonovich has
This book was great beginning to end. It was fast paced, stayed intriguing and was very hard to put down. I was first enchanted by the first book and the Russian folklore that was woven throughout and this book did not disappoint. I will definitely continue recommending this series. Loved it!
This book picks up where the last book ended and the charismatic priest Konstantin Nikonovich has
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convinced the mobs that the fires that broke out all over the city was God's punishment for the prince harboring a witch, Vasya, and that she must be burned to death as punishment. Through a crazy chain of events Vasya escapes and is set on the magical Midnight Road where she discovers more about her family, her past and what her future might be. This book was great beginning to end. It was fast paced, stayed intriguing and was very hard to put down. I was first enchanted by the first book and the Russian folklore that was woven throughout and this book did not disappoint. I will definitely continue recommending this series. Loved it!
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LibraryThing member krau0098
This is the third and final book in the Winternight trilogy. I got a copy of this book from NetGalley to review. This was an amazing conclusion to this Russian folklore based fantasy tale. I absolutely loved it and thought it was just perfect!
Vasya is in trouble, she’s been accused of being a
This was an amazing conclusion to this trilogy. It continues to be incredibly well written and I loved how Vasya pulled together all the folklorish powers of Russia to help deal with both the Bear and the Tartars. So many amazing things happen in this book, it was impossible to put down and amazing to read.
Overall this was one of my favorite series that I read this year and this installment in it was the most amazing of all. I absolutely loved it to pieces and would highly recommend if you enjoy beautiful fantasy writing with folklore/fairy tale themes.
Vasya is in trouble, she’s been accused of being a
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witch and is on the run. The Bear has been released again and Vasya needs Morozko’s help to trap the Bear before he destroys Moscow. Can Vasya help to save Moscow and still have happiness for herself as well?This was an amazing conclusion to this trilogy. It continues to be incredibly well written and I loved how Vasya pulled together all the folklorish powers of Russia to help deal with both the Bear and the Tartars. So many amazing things happen in this book, it was impossible to put down and amazing to read.
Overall this was one of my favorite series that I read this year and this installment in it was the most amazing of all. I absolutely loved it to pieces and would highly recommend if you enjoy beautiful fantasy writing with folklore/fairy tale themes.
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LibraryThing member wagner.sarah35
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher.*
I liked this book the best of the trilogy, but I'm still not as enamored with the story as I feel I should be. These books have all that I typically love in a story - history, magic, strong female characters, etc - but I'm just not into them like
I liked this book the best of the trilogy, but I'm still not as enamored with the story as I feel I should be. These books have all that I typically love in a story - history, magic, strong female characters, etc - but I'm just not into them like
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I've been into others and its hard to put my finger on why that is. That being said, this is still a good book and I thought it provided a good conclusion to the series. Show Less
LibraryThing member tamidale
Katherine Arden’s books just keep improving with each one. Her third book in the Winternight Trilogy was every bit as exciting as I was hoping for. Arden’s books remind me so much of why I loved fairy tales as a child.
In the third book, Vasya, the main character, finds herself in a precarious
Along the way, she learns more about her heritage and her powers as a witch. Vasya develops into a peacemaker of sorts, to bring about the best outcomes for everyone. She finds her true path and she also finds romance throughout her difficult journey.
I especially loved the role of the horses in the story and how valued they were to Vasya.
The ending was wonderful and just the sort of fairy tale ending I was anticipating.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for allowing me to read and advance copy and give my honest review.
In the third book, Vasya, the main character, finds herself in a precarious
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position at the beginning of the story. Right away some devastating events occur and Vasya must escape to a safer place.Along the way, she learns more about her heritage and her powers as a witch. Vasya develops into a peacemaker of sorts, to bring about the best outcomes for everyone. She finds her true path and she also finds romance throughout her difficult journey.
I especially loved the role of the horses in the story and how valued they were to Vasya.
The ending was wonderful and just the sort of fairy tale ending I was anticipating.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine for allowing me to read and advance copy and give my honest review.
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LibraryThing member eyes.2c
A forceful and distinctive voice!
I cant help but see this series as if looking into a fantastical snowglobe, that upon closer inspection takes you into the very heart of a Russian winter forest. Stepping inside opens you up to a magical, yet fearsome otherworld tale that inhabits your dreams and
There is so much to think on at the conclusion of this series. The Winter of the Witch draws all together to a grand finale.
The chyert called Medved, the Bear has slipped his bindings. An uneasy truce is in the offing, Lady Midnight pays a call and the world as Vasya knows it turns.
Three thoughts leap into awareness for me:
The illuminating creativity of Arden whose woven fact and fiction into a magical world that sparkles with life and fills the reader with dread and wonder.
The struggle between pagan and Christian and how Arden has forged the two understandings and belief systems together that raises many other questions.
The very humaness of the story: one we can exclaim at, rage at, feel compassion with and cry for.
Arden's author's note adds to this conversation, ending with:
"Who is to say, in the end, that the three guardians of Russia are not a witch, a frost-demon, and a chaos-spirit?
I find it fitting."
Whimsically, so do I! A fitting note for a magnificent fantasy saga that captivates. Bravo!
A NetGalley ARC
I cant help but see this series as if looking into a fantastical snowglobe, that upon closer inspection takes you into the very heart of a Russian winter forest. Stepping inside opens you up to a magical, yet fearsome otherworld tale that inhabits your dreams and
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nightmares complete with a feisty heroine and a daemon king. Creatures out of folklore, some benign, others not so! A struggle for supremacy reigns on various levels all intrucibly linked. There is so much to think on at the conclusion of this series. The Winter of the Witch draws all together to a grand finale.
The chyert called Medved, the Bear has slipped his bindings. An uneasy truce is in the offing, Lady Midnight pays a call and the world as Vasya knows it turns.
Three thoughts leap into awareness for me:
The illuminating creativity of Arden whose woven fact and fiction into a magical world that sparkles with life and fills the reader with dread and wonder.
The struggle between pagan and Christian and how Arden has forged the two understandings and belief systems together that raises many other questions.
The very humaness of the story: one we can exclaim at, rage at, feel compassion with and cry for.
Arden's author's note adds to this conversation, ending with:
"Who is to say, in the end, that the three guardians of Russia are not a witch, a frost-demon, and a chaos-spirit?
I find it fitting."
Whimsically, so do I! A fitting note for a magnificent fantasy saga that captivates. Bravo!
A NetGalley ARC
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LibraryThing member Carolesrandomlife
I absolutely loved this book! Ever since I finished The Girl in the Tower, I have been eager to read the next chapter in Vasya's story. I went into this book with incredibly high expectations and I have to say that this book was even better than I could have hoped for. There is just something
The Winter of the Witch is the final book in the Winternight trilogy which really must be read in order. This book does pick up shortly after the events of the previous book by throwing the reader right back into the action. If I had to find one thing to criticize about this book, it would be that this book does not take the time to refresh the reader's memory of the events from the previous installments. Since it has been over a year since I read the previous book, it did take me a moment or two to really remember the details regarding what had been happening with Vasya.
Vasya is a wonderful character and I have found it a joy to watch her develop and really find herself over the course of the trilogy. She seems to be ready to take on the world in this book. She is strong and has proven herself worthy of being a leader. She is also compassionate and mourns the ones she has lost and works to protect others often at her own risk. She does expect others with power to also do what needs to be done even if it comes with significant risk and does not hold back her opinion when she thinks that they are not doing enough.
This book was exciting. I worried about the safety of Vasya and the other characters quite often since there are a lot of dangerous situations in the book. Vasya has really embraced her powers by the end of the book and I had a great time seeing everything she was capable of doing. I also loved all of the magical creatures that were a part of Vasya's world. The Winter King, the Bear, Midnight, and even a mushroom king all played important and sometimes surprising roles in this wonderful story.
I thought that the writing was beautiful. I felt like I was carried away by the words as I read this book. There was a wonderful flow to the story and I think that the writing added to the overall beauty of the story. This story made me feel a lot of things. I was nervous and worried about the characters at times and smiled in joy when things worked out. I felt pain when things went horribly wrong and had tears of joy when things went oh so right. The story is dark and it is often violent but it was always beautiful.
I would highly recommend this trilogy to others. I was swept away by this dark fairytale of a story and loved every moment of it. I must say that this book brought everything to a fantastic conclusion and the ending was even better than I could have hoped. This is a trilogy that I plan to revisit many times in the future. I can't wait to see what Katherine Arden writes next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray via NetGalley.
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magical about this trilogy. This was a book that I found almost impossible to set aside. I just had to know how things would work out for Vasya, her family, and all of Russia. I found that this story was really able to touch me emotionally and I had a fantastic time reading it.The Winter of the Witch is the final book in the Winternight trilogy which really must be read in order. This book does pick up shortly after the events of the previous book by throwing the reader right back into the action. If I had to find one thing to criticize about this book, it would be that this book does not take the time to refresh the reader's memory of the events from the previous installments. Since it has been over a year since I read the previous book, it did take me a moment or two to really remember the details regarding what had been happening with Vasya.
Vasya is a wonderful character and I have found it a joy to watch her develop and really find herself over the course of the trilogy. She seems to be ready to take on the world in this book. She is strong and has proven herself worthy of being a leader. She is also compassionate and mourns the ones she has lost and works to protect others often at her own risk. She does expect others with power to also do what needs to be done even if it comes with significant risk and does not hold back her opinion when she thinks that they are not doing enough.
This book was exciting. I worried about the safety of Vasya and the other characters quite often since there are a lot of dangerous situations in the book. Vasya has really embraced her powers by the end of the book and I had a great time seeing everything she was capable of doing. I also loved all of the magical creatures that were a part of Vasya's world. The Winter King, the Bear, Midnight, and even a mushroom king all played important and sometimes surprising roles in this wonderful story.
I thought that the writing was beautiful. I felt like I was carried away by the words as I read this book. There was a wonderful flow to the story and I think that the writing added to the overall beauty of the story. This story made me feel a lot of things. I was nervous and worried about the characters at times and smiled in joy when things worked out. I felt pain when things went horribly wrong and had tears of joy when things went oh so right. The story is dark and it is often violent but it was always beautiful.
I would highly recommend this trilogy to others. I was swept away by this dark fairytale of a story and loved every moment of it. I must say that this book brought everything to a fantastic conclusion and the ending was even better than I could have hoped. This is a trilogy that I plan to revisit many times in the future. I can't wait to see what Katherine Arden writes next!
I received a digital review copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine Del Ray via NetGalley.
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LibraryThing member quondame
A solid, well constructed wrap up of the trilogy that did not quite capture the highlights of the first two volumes. Vasya has become somewhat of a force in herself and continues to consolidate her power and direction through the first two of the three challenges in this book.
LibraryThing member KateBaxter
This final installment of the Winternight Trilogy is a stunning and spectacular conclusion to a well thought out retelling of Russian history entwined with its tremendous folktale legacy. It is filled with magical creatures of the woods and sea, devils of night, death and conflict and a spectacular
Background:
In the first book, we were introduced to Vasya, a fearless, bold and fiercely independent young maiden who had inherited her grandmother's sensitivity to the ancient creatures of folklore. She was facing the fate of so many medieval Russ maidens - either accept betrothal or enter the convent - lest she become a burden on her family's resources. Neither option appealed and off into the world she rode, dressed as a young lad, sitting atop her otherworldly steed, Solovey. Thus ended book I.
In this second installment, we find our cross-dressing maid, wandering the earth, living by her wits, seeking adventure with Solovey. Not just once, Morozko, the Winterking (or Jack Frost as many know him), has come to her aid and delivered Vasya from certain death. At one point Vasya and Solovey, after having been pursued by bandits, happen upon a burned out village. The survivors tell tale of a marauding band of Tatars who kidnapped three of their village's young girls. Vasya vows to try and help...and the saga continues.
In this book, Vasya, our eager and often reckless heroine, is called out of the protection of her sister's terem, to atone for having started the fire which burned much of Muscovy (occurring in the 2nd book). The crowd wants blood. Wounded Vasya hopes to breakaway astride her beloved steed, Solovey, and lead the crowd away from the terem to protect her family. As in most things, "the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry". Vasya is seized and dragged to a roaring pyre to meet her end. She breaks free and seeks the magical world for protection and time to heal. More battles are waged in which Vasya engages in an effort to restore her family's reputation and pride, as the saga continues.
The author does an exemplary job of entwining the historical record of 1380 with the rich fantastical creatures of Russian folktales. Her writing is atmospheric and painterly. Her character development and world building deep and exquisite. It is lovely to watch the maturing process of Vasya, this young maiden, as she moves from fearless and often reckless traveler to woman of sound mind and tremendous wisdom. Drawing on her extensive background in Russian culture, literature and history, Arden embarked on her quest to write this trilogy at the age of 23 and completed that journey seven years later with this magnificent third book. Well done Ms. Arden!! I cannot wait to see what more you have in store for us.
Synopsis (from book's dust jacket):
Following their adventures in The Bear and the Nightingale and The Girl in the Tower, Vasya and Morozko return in this stunning conclusion to the bestselling Winternight Trilogy, battling enemies mortal and magical to save both Russias, the seen and the unseen.
Now Moscow has been struck by disaster. Its people are searching for answers—and for someone to blame. Vasya finds herself alone, beset on all sides. The Grand Prince is in a rage, choosing allies that will lead him on a path to war and ruin. A wicked demon returns, stronger than ever and determined to spread chaos. Caught at the center of the conflict is Vasya, who finds the fate of two worlds resting on her shoulders. Her destiny uncertain, Vasya will uncover surprising truths about herself and her history as she desperately tries to save Russia, Morozko, and the magical world she treasures. But she may not be able to save them all.
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fearless young woman with "the sight" who realizes that the magical, human and spiritual worlds must work together in order for each to survive.Background:
In the first book, we were introduced to Vasya, a fearless, bold and fiercely independent young maiden who had inherited her grandmother's sensitivity to the ancient creatures of folklore. She was facing the fate of so many medieval Russ maidens - either accept betrothal or enter the convent - lest she become a burden on her family's resources. Neither option appealed and off into the world she rode, dressed as a young lad, sitting atop her otherworldly steed, Solovey. Thus ended book I.
In this second installment, we find our cross-dressing maid, wandering the earth, living by her wits, seeking adventure with Solovey. Not just once, Morozko, the Winterking (or Jack Frost as many know him), has come to her aid and delivered Vasya from certain death. At one point Vasya and Solovey, after having been pursued by bandits, happen upon a burned out village. The survivors tell tale of a marauding band of Tatars who kidnapped three of their village's young girls. Vasya vows to try and help...and the saga continues.
In this book, Vasya, our eager and often reckless heroine, is called out of the protection of her sister's terem, to atone for having started the fire which burned much of Muscovy (occurring in the 2nd book). The crowd wants blood. Wounded Vasya hopes to breakaway astride her beloved steed, Solovey, and lead the crowd away from the terem to protect her family. As in most things, "the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry". Vasya is seized and dragged to a roaring pyre to meet her end. She breaks free and seeks the magical world for protection and time to heal. More battles are waged in which Vasya engages in an effort to restore her family's reputation and pride, as the saga continues.
The author does an exemplary job of entwining the historical record of 1380 with the rich fantastical creatures of Russian folktales. Her writing is atmospheric and painterly. Her character development and world building deep and exquisite. It is lovely to watch the maturing process of Vasya, this young maiden, as she moves from fearless and often reckless traveler to woman of sound mind and tremendous wisdom. Drawing on her extensive background in Russian culture, literature and history, Arden embarked on her quest to write this trilogy at the age of 23 and completed that journey seven years later with this magnificent third book. Well done Ms. Arden!! I cannot wait to see what more you have in store for us.
Synopsis (from book's dust jacket):
Following their adventures in The Bear and the Nightingale and The Girl in the Tower, Vasya and Morozko return in this stunning conclusion to the bestselling Winternight Trilogy, battling enemies mortal and magical to save both Russias, the seen and the unseen.
Now Moscow has been struck by disaster. Its people are searching for answers—and for someone to blame. Vasya finds herself alone, beset on all sides. The Grand Prince is in a rage, choosing allies that will lead him on a path to war and ruin. A wicked demon returns, stronger than ever and determined to spread chaos. Caught at the center of the conflict is Vasya, who finds the fate of two worlds resting on her shoulders. Her destiny uncertain, Vasya will uncover surprising truths about herself and her history as she desperately tries to save Russia, Morozko, and the magical world she treasures. But she may not be able to save them all.
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LibraryThing member bookappeal
This is a challenging, demanding series. Old Russian culture and the use of multiple names for the same person made the first book difficult to appreciate. The second went a little easier but was less memorable, serving as the bridge book in the trilogy. By the final book, I finally could read
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Arden’s style with ease. It was worth the effort. A remarkable, ambitious, and moving series, firmly rooted in folklore and history but taking flight in magical fantasy. The Winter of the Witch is cleverly written, exhaustingly fast-paced and violent but still takes small moments to revel in the wonder and the emotional and intellectual journey of the amazing Vasya as she painfully comes to know herself and her power. Show Less
LibraryThing member bookczuk
This is a great trilogy, which actually follows history. The most amazing part is not the spirits and demons, but that the author wrote the first book when she was 23.
LibraryThing member melaniehope
I rarely will give a book a five star rating, but without hesitation, this one is five stars. You need to read the first two books in this trilogy. Book 3 begins right where the last story ended. I would say this book was even better than the first two. The author has written a beautiful fairytale
The ending of the book was extremely satisfying. Only I am so sad to end this series, but I only hope Katherine Arden continues to keep writing. I can't wait to see what comes out next! I received a complimentary ebook from the publishe
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that is almost perfection. Vasya, is now a young woman and still fighting to save her family and her beloved Russia. The mix of mortals and magical beings all struggling to coexist is riveting. The ending of the book was extremely satisfying. Only I am so sad to end this series, but I only hope Katherine Arden continues to keep writing. I can't wait to see what comes out next! I received a complimentary ebook from the publishe
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LibraryThing member c.archer
I would have preferred reading this rather than listening to audio, but it was the first available means of getting a hold of this finale title through my library. I had to know the ending and couldn't wait for the book version. It was breathtaking in excitement and tension with tidbits of humor
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sprinkled throughout. This is a must read and a fitting end to the fairy tale of Vasya and long ago Russia. I was captivated from the first book to the very end of this remarkable trilogy. If you have finished The Girl in the Tower, get this book now! It is just perfection. Show Less
LibraryThing member nbmars
Note: Some spoilers for the first two books in this series.
This is the third book in a trilogy that began with The Bear and the Nightingale, and continued with The Girl in the Tower. The saga combines elements of a fairytale retelling, historical fiction, and fantasy. I would advise that this book
The story is set in the 1300’s in Russia, or Rus’, as it used to be known. The country had been Christian for five hundred years, but some of 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 fantastical 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.”
In the first book, Vasya ran away from home to avoid the two choices for her future of either an arranged marriage or a nunnery. Her life was saved by Morozko - the Winter-King, or Frost-Demon.
In the second 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,” or indeed, have feelings at all. Giving up immortality doesn't seem like a good option.
But Morozko cares for Vasya and wants her 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.”
In order to protect Vasya, Morozko gives her a magical horse named Solovey, which means Nightingale, and with whom she can communicate.
So she leaves Morozko and happens, along her journeys, to reunite with her sister Olga, married to the Prince of Serpukhov, and with her brother brother Sasha, who is now the monk Brother Aleksandr Persvet. Sasha is acting as a counselor to his cousin and good friend Dmitrii Ivanovich, Grand Prince of Moscow.
As the third book begins, Olga has recently lost a baby, and another of her children is at risk, since Olga's little girl Marya, like Vasya, has inherited “sight,” which could get her labeled as a witch. Indeed, Vasya is being called out as a witch by the villagers, egged on by the “holy man” Konstantin Nikonovich, who leads a mob to the gates of the Olga’s palace demanding “the witch.” They intend to burn Vasya at the stake. To that end, they first kill her beloved horse Solovey so she cannot take flight on his back.
Vasya manages to escape the flames through magic, and Vavara, Olga's house maid, tells her where she can find safety. Vasya then discovers that Morozko traded his own freedom for Vasya’s life. Morozko released his twin brother, Medved - The Bear - from captivity, and agreed to become captive himself, with the only proviso that Medved save Vasya as payment.
Morozko and Medved are beings called chyerti: the various spirits of Russian folklore which may include human-like beings, animals, or plants endowed with the ability to speak, emote, and influence human affairs. As Vavara explains:
“The Bear [Medved] is among the greatest of chyerti, a master of the unclean forces of the earth. . . . .His chief skill is knowing the minds of men and women, and bending them to his will. Above all he loves destruction and chaos, and will seek to sow it as he can.”
Inevitably, Medved aligns with Konstantin, an apt, if ironic, agent for the devil. Medved understands at once that Konstantin, in his role as priest, is capable of unleashing the most chaos on the populace through religious-inspired fear and hatred.
Meanwhile, Vasya doesn’t feel free yet. The Bear is loose; Morozko is now captive somewhere; Moscow is in danger from Medved and Konstantin; and Vasya is concerned for her family, particularly Marya. Somehow, she must use the powers she has to make it all right.
This story ends just after the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380. At that [actual] battle, the Grand Prince Dmitrii Ivanovich led a combined force from several different Russian principalities against a Tatar army.
As the author explains in her Afterword, it was the first time the Russian people fought together to defeat a foreign adversary and thus “marks the spiritual birth of the nation of Russia.” She also notes that many aspects of the battle she portrayed are true, with the possible exception of the fairy elements. But, she adds:
“Who is to say, in the end, that the three guardians of Russia are not a witch, a frost-demon, and a chaos-spirit?”
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. Arden also employs the common trope in folklore about the fear among the Fae that the diminution of belief in fantastical beings will lead to their elimination from nature. In addition, there is a lot about gender roles, and the stereotypes about women that are so destructive to their well-being.
In the previous two books, Vasya was much more self-centered and disagreeable. In this book she finally matures and makes sacrifices beyond those that serve her own interest. She is not only more compassionate, but shows bravery and devotion to justice befitting a heroine.
Arden does an excellent job of adding nuance to the villains of this saga, sharing with us their hurts and longings as Vasya comes to understand why they acted the way they did.
We even get more romance and physical expression of it in this final book, and it is quite well done.
Evaluation: The prose evokes the tone of fairy tales, and the historical aspects dovetail nicely with the plot and add depth to the story. There is a helpful glossary in the back of the book for Russian terms. The saga is enlightening as well as entertaining, and has cross-over appeal for fans of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance.
This is the third book in a trilogy that began with The Bear and the Nightingale, and continued with The Girl in the Tower. The saga combines elements of a fairytale retelling, historical fiction, and fantasy. I would advise that this book
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not be read as a standalone, but rather in sequence as part of the trilogy.The story is set in the 1300’s in Russia, or Rus’, as it used to be known. The country had been Christian for five hundred years, but some of 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 fantastical 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.”
In the first book, Vasya ran away from home to avoid the two choices for her future of either an arranged marriage or a nunnery. Her life was saved by Morozko - the Winter-King, or Frost-Demon.
In the second 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,” or indeed, have feelings at all. Giving up immortality doesn't seem like a good option.
But Morozko cares for Vasya and wants her 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.”
In order to protect Vasya, Morozko gives her a magical horse named Solovey, which means Nightingale, and with whom she can communicate.
So she leaves Morozko and happens, along her journeys, to reunite with her sister Olga, married to the Prince of Serpukhov, and with her brother brother Sasha, who is now the monk Brother Aleksandr Persvet. Sasha is acting as a counselor to his cousin and good friend Dmitrii Ivanovich, Grand Prince of Moscow.
As the third book begins, Olga has recently lost a baby, and another of her children is at risk, since Olga's little girl Marya, like Vasya, has inherited “sight,” which could get her labeled as a witch. Indeed, Vasya is being called out as a witch by the villagers, egged on by the “holy man” Konstantin Nikonovich, who leads a mob to the gates of the Olga’s palace demanding “the witch.” They intend to burn Vasya at the stake. To that end, they first kill her beloved horse Solovey so she cannot take flight on his back.
Vasya manages to escape the flames through magic, and Vavara, Olga's house maid, tells her where she can find safety. Vasya then discovers that Morozko traded his own freedom for Vasya’s life. Morozko released his twin brother, Medved - The Bear - from captivity, and agreed to become captive himself, with the only proviso that Medved save Vasya as payment.
Morozko and Medved are beings called chyerti: the various spirits of Russian folklore which may include human-like beings, animals, or plants endowed with the ability to speak, emote, and influence human affairs. As Vavara explains:
“The Bear [Medved] is among the greatest of chyerti, a master of the unclean forces of the earth. . . . .His chief skill is knowing the minds of men and women, and bending them to his will. Above all he loves destruction and chaos, and will seek to sow it as he can.”
Inevitably, Medved aligns with Konstantin, an apt, if ironic, agent for the devil. Medved understands at once that Konstantin, in his role as priest, is capable of unleashing the most chaos on the populace through religious-inspired fear and hatred.
Meanwhile, Vasya doesn’t feel free yet. The Bear is loose; Morozko is now captive somewhere; Moscow is in danger from Medved and Konstantin; and Vasya is concerned for her family, particularly Marya. Somehow, she must use the powers she has to make it all right.
This story ends just after the Battle of Kulikovo in 1380. At that [actual] battle, the Grand Prince Dmitrii Ivanovich led a combined force from several different Russian principalities against a Tatar army.
As the author explains in her Afterword, it was the first time the Russian people fought together to defeat a foreign adversary and thus “marks the spiritual birth of the nation of Russia.” She also notes that many aspects of the battle she portrayed are true, with the possible exception of the fairy elements. But, she adds:
“Who is to say, in the end, that the three guardians of Russia are not a witch, a frost-demon, and a chaos-spirit?”
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. Arden also employs the common trope in folklore about the fear among the Fae that the diminution of belief in fantastical beings will lead to their elimination from nature. In addition, there is a lot about gender roles, and the stereotypes about women that are so destructive to their well-being.
In the previous two books, Vasya was much more self-centered and disagreeable. In this book she finally matures and makes sacrifices beyond those that serve her own interest. She is not only more compassionate, but shows bravery and devotion to justice befitting a heroine.
Arden does an excellent job of adding nuance to the villains of this saga, sharing with us their hurts and longings as Vasya comes to understand why they acted the way they did.
We even get more romance and physical expression of it in this final book, and it is quite well done.
Evaluation: The prose evokes the tone of fairy tales, and the historical aspects dovetail nicely with the plot and add depth to the story. There is a helpful glossary in the back of the book for Russian terms. The saga is enlightening as well as entertaining, and has cross-over appeal for fans of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance.
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LibraryThing member Sandeen
The third novel in Winter Night Trilogy, The Bear and the Nightingale and The Girl in the Tower being the first two, written by Katherine Arden, this novel is the end of Vasya’s journey. And it is wonderful.
Condemned to burn as a witch by the people of Moscow, led by Konstantine, Vasya manages to
This novel continued on as the last two did, told from a number of perspectives we get to continue to watch Vasya become who she truly is. And that is a person, neither good nor evil, but trying to do the best she can. She is trying to make up for her mistakes. She is trying to save her people.
One of the things that I greatly enjoyed about this novel was that the final conflict is an actual battle that happened in Russia.
Okay, okay, so let’s break this one down.
The writing: wonderful and perfect story telling. Arden strikes a balance between telling us detail and leaving enough to the imagination that you are able to create your own world.
The characters: in this novel there were characters new to the story, but well known to our characters. They all had depth when they needed it. The creatures of stories aren’t going to necessarily be much more than you expect them to be. But they combine together very well.
The plot: This plot takes a lot of turns. And the whole time the plot is pointing out that it isn’t doing the smart thing; Vasya keeps fighting. She keeps trying to do the right thing, even if bad things happen. Which brings home the ideas in this book so very well. Seeing the Winter King as he once was at his highest was a joy. The quote below, spoken by the Bear to the priest, I think summarizes the themes of this series excellently. And was a lovely foreshadowing as it was spoken early in the book.
There are no monsters in the world, and no saints. Only infinite shades woven into the same tapestry, light and dark. One man’s monster is another man’s beloved. The wise know that.
The Bear
Overall, I really loved and enjoyed this series. Highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. Unless you don’t like fantasy or historical settings. Then maybe you might not enjoy reading this.
Condemned to burn as a witch by the people of Moscow, led by Konstantine, Vasya manages to
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escape. But the Winter King already let lose The Bear, and chaos will reign.This novel continued on as the last two did, told from a number of perspectives we get to continue to watch Vasya become who she truly is. And that is a person, neither good nor evil, but trying to do the best she can. She is trying to make up for her mistakes. She is trying to save her people.
One of the things that I greatly enjoyed about this novel was that the final conflict is an actual battle that happened in Russia.
Okay, okay, so let’s break this one down.
The writing: wonderful and perfect story telling. Arden strikes a balance between telling us detail and leaving enough to the imagination that you are able to create your own world.
The characters: in this novel there were characters new to the story, but well known to our characters. They all had depth when they needed it. The creatures of stories aren’t going to necessarily be much more than you expect them to be. But they combine together very well.
The plot: This plot takes a lot of turns. And the whole time the plot is pointing out that it isn’t doing the smart thing; Vasya keeps fighting. She keeps trying to do the right thing, even if bad things happen. Which brings home the ideas in this book so very well. Seeing the Winter King as he once was at his highest was a joy. The quote below, spoken by the Bear to the priest, I think summarizes the themes of this series excellently. And was a lovely foreshadowing as it was spoken early in the book.
There are no monsters in the world, and no saints. Only infinite shades woven into the same tapestry, light and dark. One man’s monster is another man’s beloved. The wise know that.
The Bear
Overall, I really loved and enjoyed this series. Highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. Unless you don’t like fantasy or historical settings. Then maybe you might not enjoy reading this.
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LibraryThing member passion4reading
At the end of The Girl in the Tower the citizens of Moscow are restless and it takes only a spark in the shape of Konstantin Nikonovich to turn them into a mob, demanding Vasya's death. To say more about the plot would spoil the enjoyment of those who haven't read this final volume in the
The book starts almost exactly where the previous volume left off. Even more so than the other two titles in the series, this book is all about Vasya, and her long and hard road from girl to woman. But – oh my – we are with her every step of the way: grieving, laughing, being scared and brave, fierce and tender. Simply wonderful. I will miss them all; the only consolation is to re-read the entire trilogy back to back, and maybe the author will consider bringing back some of the characters for the odd e-novella or short story.
One of my all-time favourite series.
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Winternight trilogy yet.The book starts almost exactly where the previous volume left off. Even more so than the other two titles in the series, this book is all about Vasya, and her long and hard road from girl to woman. But – oh my – we are with her every step of the way: grieving, laughing, being scared and brave, fierce and tender. Simply wonderful. I will miss them all; the only consolation is to re-read the entire trilogy back to back, and maybe the author will consider bringing back some of the characters for the odd e-novella or short story.
One of my all-time favourite series.
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LibraryThing member acargile
This is the final book in the Winternight Trilogy. The first book is The Bear and the Nightingale. I’ve read little Russian fairy tales, but I am getting addicted after reading Arden’s books and Uprooted by Naomi Novik. Do NOT read further if you haven’t read the conclusion of book two, The
The publisher writes, “One girl can make a difference.” I can’t think of a better way to begin. Vasilisa Petrovan (Vasya) insists on her freedoms. She will not be labeled as a female who must marry or go into a convent while the men do as they like and rule the world. She begins this novel in a precarious situation, only to find the Bear, unbound, with no hint of Winter. Vasya must learn more about the powers that exist within her in order to save her country.
In order to save Rus, Vasya must determine what her role is. Does she choose sides? Whom does she help? How? Also, how can she use the magic within without going crazy? Without Solovey, her family, or the Winter King, Vasya is faced with choices from the world of the unseen and the world of men who worship God. The unseen cannot disappear. Can the people see anything but “demons” when they hear of the chyerti? To begin, she must find the Winter King and then build a coalition army that can fight those who are trying to unseat Dmitrii. She’ll also have to find a way to have both faiths exist in one world in order to work together. To do these tasks, she’ll have to do what no one else has ever done, relying on her own instincts, abilities, and faith in others.
I absolutely loved this trilogy. I re-read books one and two before reading this book and saw so many things that I didn’t realize were important. My only criticism is that her younger brother never makes another appearance, and he was such an important support in the first book--he shouldn’t have been dropped. I’d like a short story added. Ms. Arden has written an amazing and engrossing trilogy that I highly recommend. It’s a page turner as you become totally engrossed in the chyerti who hold up Russia. Vasya is a great example for tween and teenage girls as they witness bravery, sacrifice, strength, and love.
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Girl in the Tower. The conclusion will be ruined for you, so STOP. I don’t say a lot because I don’t like to spoil anything in a series, but be aware that you may learn more than you want even though I’ve stayed vague.The publisher writes, “One girl can make a difference.” I can’t think of a better way to begin. Vasilisa Petrovan (Vasya) insists on her freedoms. She will not be labeled as a female who must marry or go into a convent while the men do as they like and rule the world. She begins this novel in a precarious situation, only to find the Bear, unbound, with no hint of Winter. Vasya must learn more about the powers that exist within her in order to save her country.
In order to save Rus, Vasya must determine what her role is. Does she choose sides? Whom does she help? How? Also, how can she use the magic within without going crazy? Without Solovey, her family, or the Winter King, Vasya is faced with choices from the world of the unseen and the world of men who worship God. The unseen cannot disappear. Can the people see anything but “demons” when they hear of the chyerti? To begin, she must find the Winter King and then build a coalition army that can fight those who are trying to unseat Dmitrii. She’ll also have to find a way to have both faiths exist in one world in order to work together. To do these tasks, she’ll have to do what no one else has ever done, relying on her own instincts, abilities, and faith in others.
I absolutely loved this trilogy. I re-read books one and two before reading this book and saw so many things that I didn’t realize were important. My only criticism is that her younger brother never makes another appearance, and he was such an important support in the first book--he shouldn’t have been dropped. I’d like a short story added. Ms. Arden has written an amazing and engrossing trilogy that I highly recommend. It’s a page turner as you become totally engrossed in the chyerti who hold up Russia. Vasya is a great example for tween and teenage girls as they witness bravery, sacrifice, strength, and love.
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LibraryThing member hskey
Amazing that Arden started this series at age 23, she's clearly very talented. This is another solid entry and proper finale for a very unique, wonderful and weird fantasy series. You really do get the sense of an incredible journey with Vasya, who remains a stellar protagonist the whole way
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through. There are some incredibly heart-wrenching scenes here, and a few good twists along the way. Much like the first two books, Arden weaving in pagan myth with Christianity in medieval Russian times is, at times, sensational. I hope Arden keeps improving as she has from book 1 and look forward to her next book/series. Show Less
LibraryThing member nancyadair
The Winter of the Witch is Katherine Arden's third book in the Winternight Trilogy.
I was quite taken by the 14th c Rus' setting, the Russian fairy-tale-inspired characters, and the female heroine journey. Arden studied Russian in Moscow, so reading the books the reader is immersed in Russian
The series, in essence, is about a young girl growing up, discovering her abilities and place in the world, at odds with societal expectations. Historical Russia becomes a fairy-tale kingdom where both men and devils must fight to survive.
The Bear and the Nightingale
In 14th c Russia, Vasya, who can talk to horses and hear the household spirits, dares to claim the right to make her own fate. Against her family's desires and the demands of society and church, she resists the life laid out for her. Even the pagan gods, whose power is slowly fading, try to harness her for their good but she will not be chattel to anyone. She fights the evil spirits that threaten her family, protected by the Winter King Morozko. When the spirit of Death in the form of a monstrous bear attacks their community, Vasya is blamed and labeled a witch by the priest Konstantin. Her choices limited to marry, enter a convent, or be killed as a witch, Vasya dresses as a boy and goes out into the world with a horse from Morozko, the unworldly stead Solovey, or Nightingale.
The Girl in the Tower
In the cruel winter, dressed as a boy, Vasya flees her home where she was driven out as a witch. After battling a Tartar army she finds refuge in a city where she is reunited with her brother Sasha, the valiant monk-warrior and childhood friend of the ruling prince. Her exploits impress the prince and she leads his band to track down the Tartar marauders. Vasya accompanies the retinue to Moscow and is reunited with her sister. Also in Moscow is the tormented Konstintine, the priest whose misguided faith drove him to persecute Vasya in her hometown. The story includes a twisted plot of false identities, a heritage of women who can communicate with the spirit world, and a riveting epic battle.
The Winter of the Witch
This installment brings the epic story to an exciting climax as the Rus kingdoms are threatened by the Mongol Golden Horde, and the chyerti fight for survival as they are forgotten as Christianity spreads.
Vasya learns she is descended from a line of witches and pledges to help the chyerti coexist with humanity. Central to the continuing story is Vasya's monk-warrior brother Sasha, their sister Olga and her daughter, the nascent witch Marya, the Rus' Prince, and the misguided Christian priest, Konstantin, whose lust for power overrides his faith.
Vasya's demon mentor Morozko The Winter King, a god of death, and his brother Medved, the Bear, god of chaos, have been enemies. To protect her Rus' kinfolk, Vasya's task is to bridge their gap and make them ally with humans.
In the Author's Note, Arden states that from the start she planned to end the trilogy at the 1380 Battle of Kulikovo on the Don River between the Grand Prince Dmitrii Ivanovich and the Tatar temnik Mamai. There was a historical warrior-monk who battled a Tartar warrior as in the novel, and the Grand Prince did trade places with a boyar so he could fight incognito.
I sped through The Winter of the Witch, a compelling read. There are two epic battles. As I noted in earlier reviews, the myth of the female hero continues as Vasya receives help and magical helpers. I noted repetition in the story, stock images or phrases, in the style of Epic poetry.
The series would appeal to readers who like strong female characters battling for freedom and those with an interest in fairy tales, Russian folklore, and fantasy.
I received a free ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
I was quite taken by the 14th c Rus' setting, the Russian fairy-tale-inspired characters, and the female heroine journey. Arden studied Russian in Moscow, so reading the books the reader is immersed in Russian
Show More
history and traditional culture. The series, in essence, is about a young girl growing up, discovering her abilities and place in the world, at odds with societal expectations. Historical Russia becomes a fairy-tale kingdom where both men and devils must fight to survive.
The Bear and the Nightingale
In 14th c Russia, Vasya, who can talk to horses and hear the household spirits, dares to claim the right to make her own fate. Against her family's desires and the demands of society and church, she resists the life laid out for her. Even the pagan gods, whose power is slowly fading, try to harness her for their good but she will not be chattel to anyone. She fights the evil spirits that threaten her family, protected by the Winter King Morozko. When the spirit of Death in the form of a monstrous bear attacks their community, Vasya is blamed and labeled a witch by the priest Konstantin. Her choices limited to marry, enter a convent, or be killed as a witch, Vasya dresses as a boy and goes out into the world with a horse from Morozko, the unworldly stead Solovey, or Nightingale.
The Girl in the Tower
In the cruel winter, dressed as a boy, Vasya flees her home where she was driven out as a witch. After battling a Tartar army she finds refuge in a city where she is reunited with her brother Sasha, the valiant monk-warrior and childhood friend of the ruling prince. Her exploits impress the prince and she leads his band to track down the Tartar marauders. Vasya accompanies the retinue to Moscow and is reunited with her sister. Also in Moscow is the tormented Konstintine, the priest whose misguided faith drove him to persecute Vasya in her hometown. The story includes a twisted plot of false identities, a heritage of women who can communicate with the spirit world, and a riveting epic battle.
The Winter of the Witch
This installment brings the epic story to an exciting climax as the Rus kingdoms are threatened by the Mongol Golden Horde, and the chyerti fight for survival as they are forgotten as Christianity spreads.
Vasya learns she is descended from a line of witches and pledges to help the chyerti coexist with humanity. Central to the continuing story is Vasya's monk-warrior brother Sasha, their sister Olga and her daughter, the nascent witch Marya, the Rus' Prince, and the misguided Christian priest, Konstantin, whose lust for power overrides his faith.
Vasya's demon mentor Morozko The Winter King, a god of death, and his brother Medved, the Bear, god of chaos, have been enemies. To protect her Rus' kinfolk, Vasya's task is to bridge their gap and make them ally with humans.
In the Author's Note, Arden states that from the start she planned to end the trilogy at the 1380 Battle of Kulikovo on the Don River between the Grand Prince Dmitrii Ivanovich and the Tatar temnik Mamai. There was a historical warrior-monk who battled a Tartar warrior as in the novel, and the Grand Prince did trade places with a boyar so he could fight incognito.
I sped through The Winter of the Witch, a compelling read. There are two epic battles. As I noted in earlier reviews, the myth of the female hero continues as Vasya receives help and magical helpers. I noted repetition in the story, stock images or phrases, in the style of Epic poetry.
The series would appeal to readers who like strong female characters battling for freedom and those with an interest in fairy tales, Russian folklore, and fantasy.
I received a free ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
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LibraryThing member amandanan
Loved the reimagined Russian folklore. Loved the badass bitch that was at the center of this trilogy. Vasilisa proves that ladies have never needed a man to survive and can lead the charge to save the world on their own, thank you very much.
LibraryThing member JJbooklvr
I did not think it was possible to have my heart broken and put back together so many times in one book. What an ending to the book and series. Perfection! Is it too early to for this to be the number 1 book of 2019?
LibraryThing member Al-G
Is it desperation that makes one courageous? Or does it simply remove all barriers to restraint and make one reckless? This is the final book in the Winternight Trilogy and is a worthwhile conclusion to Arden's well crafted tale. In my opinion this is also the pinnacle of the series and Arden does
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a wonderful job of tying everything up and bringing the reader to a satisfying ending. As Vasya seeks acceptance and a place, maybe in this world or perhaps in other, or even perhaps between the worlds, it seems that not only the family who couldn't really accept but even Moscow and Russia itself are dependent upon to her to save them from both the evil of the unseen realm and the evils of men. Vasya must choose to sacrfice herself or lose her family. The easy path would bring her safety, but will she be able to live with herself. There are echoes of "The Empire Strikes Back" as she chooses to take on powers she is not ready for in order to save those she loves and is warned that in the process she could lose not only her way but her life. And what of the winter king? Can she save him - can he be saved? All of the threads of family and fate come together in this stunning conclusion. Arden's plot is imaginative and well executed and her characters are superb as she molds them into life with her words. A wonderful tale! Show Less
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2019-01-09
Physical description
384 p.; 5.43 inches
ISBN
1785039717 / 9781785039713
Local notes
A vengeful demon returns, renewed and stronger than ever, determined to spread chaos in his wake and never be chained again. Enlisting the hateful priest Konstantin as his servant, turmoil plagues the Muscovites and the magical creatures alike, and all find their fates resting on the shoulders of Vasya.