The characters in Nettle & Bone are richly drawn and highly memorable. Marra, the protagonist, is compelling as a reluctant hero, and her journey of self-discovery and determination made me root for her throughout. Secondary characters, like the dog made of bones, the enigmatic dust-wife, and Fenris the warrior, are not only distinguishable but integral to the story’s charm and depth. Each has a distinct personality and role, and they complement Marra’s journey beautifully. I found it easy to describe each character vividly, and their growth added real depth to the narrative.

The world-building in Nettle & Bone is imaginative and atmospheric. T. Kingfisher’s descriptions of the grim fairy tale-inspired settings are evocative without being overwhelming. The creepy convent, the cursed tools, and the eerie journey all added to the immersive experience. While some locations felt more developed than others, the overall energy in the scenes pulled me in completely and made the world feel alive.

Kingfisher’s prose was a joy to read. Her writing style felt effortlessly engaging, blending wit, poignancy, and an undercurrent of darkness. The dialogue was sharp and often humorous, which balanced the darker elements of the plot perfectly. The narration flowed seamlessly, and I found the book highly readable. The blend of fairy tale simplicity with complex emotions felt unique, and her ability to weave humor into serious moments was masterful. I’m absolutely eager to pick up more of her work, regardless of genre.

The plot was well-paced and intriguing, with enough twists to keep me invested. The structure, which begins with quiet determination and builds to moments of tension and action, felt organic and satisfying. The climax and resolution were emotionally fulfilling, though parts of the middle felt slightly slower compared to the rest. The story’s mix of dark fairy tale tropes and originality stood out from other fantasy novels, though I found some reveals slightly predictable.

Nettle & Bone held my attention with its mix of suspense, humor, and endearing character dynamics. The journey was engaging, and the stakes felt real, making it hard for me to put the book down. Even in quieter moments, the strength of the characters and their interactions kept me curious and eager to see what would happen next.

The characters’ motivations were clear, and their actions aligned with the world’s internal logic. The relationships—especially Marra’s growing camaraderie with her companions—felt organic and heartfelt. The magic system was subtly woven into the narrative, enhancing the fairy tale tone without overburdening me with exposition. I didn’t encounter any glaring plot holes, and the world-building felt robust and well-balanced.

Overall, Nettle & Bone was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The blend of dark humor, heartfelt moments, and fairy tale-inspired adventure created a unique and captivating story. While a few slower sections slightly dampened the momentum, the charm of the characters and the emotional payoff made the journey absolutely worthwhile.