Raised in a small village surrounded by vast forests, Liba and Laya have lived a peaceful sheltered life – even if they’ve heard of troubling times for Jews elsewhere. When their parents travel to visit their dying grandfather, the sisters are left behind in their home in the woods.

But before they leave, Liba discovers the secret that their Tati can transform into a bear, and their Mami into a swan. Perhaps, Liba realizes, the old fairy tales are true. She must guard this secret carefully, even from her beloved sister.

Soon a troupe of mysterious men appear in town and Laya falls under their spell-despite their mother’s warning to be wary of strangers. And these are not the only dangers lurking in the woods…

The sisters will need each other if they are to become the women they need to be – and save their people from the dark forces that draw closer.

MY THOUGHTS:

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

First, can I just say how gorgeous this book cover is???? Wowza!

Readers will encounter many things while reading this book. They’ll find Russian Folklore, a dark fairy tale unfolding, unique settings and atmospheric undertones, incredible characters, beautiful settings, and the hint of a remake.  Sure, sure, many say it’s a retelling of Christina Rossetti’s poem, “Goblin Market,” but I think it offers so much more.

There are undertones of malice, a sense of foreboding and ill well brought about by being treated as an outcast, ostracized because of differences. Shunning happens, persecution trails close behind and hate is growing.  An old tale about modern issues, ironic.

A lyrical author voice and experienced writing style bring life to this book.  It was a fantastic read.

I gave it: