Review of Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher
Jenise Nelson
My spoiler free synopsis: Toadling protects her father's land and what lies within the castle by cultivating a hedge of thorns to dissuade anyone from coming to close. For many years she watches.
One day, long after she thought that the stories about her land had died out, a knight appears and he knows more than he should about her land.
Unable to resist her desire to be seen again she opens up to him, perhaps damning herself and the knight if the curse is broken.
Thoughts: Thornhedge by T.Kingfisher is a flawless little story. I've often underrated how moving a novella can be. In such a short time I lived a dark and lonely life as a toad who meets a knight. Like her, he isn't beautiful but he's full of curiosity and treats her respectfully.
Transportive in its telling, this "sleeping beauty" adjacent novella is swift and sweet.
If you're feeling in a slump, this warm cozy book will jumpstart your reading and reignite your love of fairies.
Suitable for ages 12+ imo.
No spice. Some mentions of death, and torture but no gore.
I was going to rate this 4.something stars but then I was like why. This book really was flawless.
Did I want it to be longer? YES. Was it a well rounded story, succinct, and interesting? YES.
So it gets 5 stars.
