A review by novel_nomad
The Bear and the Nightingale, by Katherine Arden

5.0

So ridiculously addictive. Set in medieval Russia but filled with folklore and fae creatures, humans must have the sight to see them. In the far north of Russia amongst the ancient forests, a young girl is born at the cost of her mother’s life. Vasya grows up with the forest, where she is most comfortable and befriends many of the forest and house dwelling fae. Not only is the setting rich with detail and authenticity, but the folklore weaves perfectly into the shadows of the world.

Vasya’s character development is brilliant, from the curious young girl to the courageous woman, fighting religious fear, malignant spirits and the traditional expectations of women the entire time.