As a princess, but a third daughter, Marra has seen her two older sisters married off to the same terrible prince. One came back dead, and one is being abused by him. To save the sister who is still alive, Marra decides to kill her sister’s awful husband. Marra is not sure how she will fare; she’s quiet, not very bold, and lives a peaceful life at a convent though she’s not a nun herself. But when she decides to save her sister, she knows what she has to do. She tracks down a witch that tells her that if she can complete three impossible tasks, she will help Marra. And Marra does! So, the two set out on a journey, picking up a few very important people and animals along the way.
This is a story about found family, but also about bravery. Though Marra doesn’t see herself as very bold, and she is not sure how this journey will turn out, she knows this is what she must do. Each of the characters (including a dog made of bones that was brought back to life), adds something to make this book a delight. This book isn’t very long, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a fairy tale that is the right length for what T. Kingfisher wants to convey.
I highly recommend this read. It has humor and magic, a little danger, a fun setting, a bit of romance, and some great characterization.
Darcy Lepore, Library Director