I received an early proof from Solaris - thank you.

Beautifully plotted, this gorgeous tale weaves its way through the lives of several people: connected in strange ways. Jewish history and mythology are as subtly meshed together as the lives of the protagonists, which become more and more entangled as their choices, fates and heritage catch up with them...

Although this book is medium rather than fast-paced, I was unable to stop reading, as the story of a girl discovering who she truly is steps into the story of a young man fleeing violent persecution, underlaying a story of court politics and a long-hidden secret, and a savage inquisition raging in two worlds. It’s a wonderfully crafted jewel-box of a book, opening up with every page to give you new details and secrets as the truth begins to bloom. There’s high drama and subtle romance and dark tragedy, but also a good deal of humour and a deft tone, told in prose that is smooth without being flowery. I was completely enchanted and am hoping for a sequel!

We follow Toba and Naftaly in a myth inspired tale filled with heritage, deception, persecution, magic and love as they must flee religious persecution and end up finding things out about themselves they never expected.

Honestly I loved ~everything~ about this book. There were some unknown aspects to me given it is centred around Jewish characters, but they author guides you through with ease especially as there are fae-like folk and the story building of that to wrap one’s head around as well. My edition had a helpful glossary in the back for the religious terms I was unfamiliar with. It was all blended beautifully. I’d be interested in a Jewish person’s perspective of how this read!

The pace of the storytelling is so well done, which is harder with split perspective- and there was never a time I got tired of one or the other.

The romance between Naftaly and Bartisly was so delightful and heart-meltingly sweet when I realised what was going on.

I’m so so excited for the next books in the series.

What an absolute thrill ride! The truest example if a fantasy action adventure that everyone will adore.

A fantastic book in the true sense of the word. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it highly. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for giving me a copy of the book.