Sometimes sequels lack the energy and magic of the original story, but not this time! In this sequel to The Bear and the Nightingale, Arden exceeds our expectations, making the magical world of medieval Russia come even more alive, while allowing her characters to grow and mature in complicated and interesting ways.

Based on Russian folklore, this second book in the Winternight Trilogy takes us from the small holdings of the Rus all the way to Muscovy as Vasilisa and her special horse Solovey travel to reunite with her brother and sister who are a part of the Grand Prince’s court. Exiled from her family holdings because the villagers think she is a witch, Vasilisa, must travel dressed as a boy and must learn to survive the cold and the dangers of travel in the Rus.

Along the way to Muscovy she sees a village that has been burned to the ground and hears from the survivors that three young girls were stolen by the bandits who caused the villages destruction. Not caring for her own safety, Vasilisa tracks the bandits into the forest and with the help of the Morozok-the Frost Demon, with whom she has a strong connection, she manages to rescue the three young girls. Maddened by the audacity of Vasilisa attack, the bandits, follow after her and it is only through sheer luck that she reaches the safety of a monastery where she and the girls are welcomed. There she recognizes her warrior-priest brother who is part of the retinue of the Grand Prince who has come to put an end to the lawlessness of the bandits. Realizing what a scandal it would cause to reveal Vasilisa’s real identity Sasha, her brother, reluctantly claims her as his younger brother Vasiliya.

When they arrive at the court in Muscovy, it becomes more and more difficult to maintain her identity as a boy. Adding to her discomfort and disease are the warnings that Vasilisa receives from the fairies and guardians of hearth and home portending impending doom, while her niece, Marya, sees strange ghosts, and has terrifying nightmares. Her suspicions grow as emissaries from the Tartars come to negotiate the tribute with the Grand Prince. Soon she finds herself caught in the machinations of a powerful enemy who is trying to over throw the Grand Prince and capture Muscovy and Vasilisa must use all her powers and wisdom in order protect the ones she loves.

Arden is masterful at bringing this time and place to life and this series is a joy to read!

Brenda’s Rating: ****(4 Out of 5 Stars)

Recommend this book to: Marian and Lauren

Book Study Worthy? Sure

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