A review by jedore
The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden

adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

“Every time you take one path, you must live with the memory of the other: of a life left unchosen. Decide as seems best, one course or the other; each way will have its bitter with its sweet.”

Disclaimer: I’m not a fan of fantasies or series.

So, why would I read the second book in this series about medieval Russia that is a mix of fantasy and reality?

Because the main character is a witch, of course. And, because I liked the first book (The Bear and the Nightingale) well enough to read the second. 

I don’t know what it was (or wasn’t) about this book…it was yet another one that had all the elements I usually love (history, a strong female lead, good writing), but I just couldn’t get into it. My theory is that Russian history and culture just isn’t my thing. It might also be that I find it annoying when the main character is immature and constantly messes shit up. 😆 

Honestly, if all things Russian and pagan float your boat, I’d recommend this to you! 

Now that I’ve read two of the three books in the series, of course, I have to read the third…after some time passes, so my attitude improves 😄
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