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A Sorceress Comes to Call
A dark retelling of the Brothers Grimm's Goose Girl, rife with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic
Cordelia knows her mother is unusual. Their house doesn’t have any doors between rooms, and her mother doesn't allow Cordelia to have a single friend—unless you count Falada, her mother's beautiful white horse. The only time Cordelia feels truly free is on her daily rides with him. But more than simple eccentricity sets her mother apart. Other mothers don’t force their daughters to be silent and motionless for hours, sometimes days, on end. Other mothers aren’t sorcerers.
After a suspicious death in their small town, Cordelia’s mother insists they leave in the middle of the night, riding away on Falada’s sturdy back, leaving behind all Cordelia has ever known. They arrive at the remote country manor of a wealthy older man, the Squire, and his unwed sister, Hester. Cordelia’s mother intends to lure the Squire into marriage, and Cordelia knows this can only be bad news for the bumbling gentleman and his kind, intelligent sister.
Hester sees the way Cordelia shrinks away from her mother, how the young girl sits eerily still at dinner every night. Hester knows that to save her brother from bewitchment and to rescue the terrified Cordelia, she will have to face down a wicked witch of the worst kind.
Cordelia knows her mother is unusual. Their house doesn’t have any doors between rooms, and her mother doesn't allow Cordelia to have a single friend—unless you count Falada, her mother's beautiful white horse. The only time Cordelia feels truly free is on her daily rides with him. But more than simple eccentricity sets her mother apart. Other mothers don’t force their daughters to be silent and motionless for hours, sometimes days, on end. Other mothers aren’t sorcerers.
After a suspicious death in their small town, Cordelia’s mother insists they leave in the middle of the night, riding away on Falada’s sturdy back, leaving behind all Cordelia has ever known. They arrive at the remote country manor of a wealthy older man, the Squire, and his unwed sister, Hester. Cordelia’s mother intends to lure the Squire into marriage, and Cordelia knows this can only be bad news for the bumbling gentleman and his kind, intelligent sister.
Hester sees the way Cordelia shrinks away from her mother, how the young girl sits eerily still at dinner every night. Hester knows that to save her brother from bewitchment and to rescue the terrified Cordelia, she will have to face down a wicked witch of the worst kind.
336 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 6, 2024
About the author
T. Kingfisher
46 books14.5k followersT. Kingfisher is the vaguely absurd pen-name of Ursula Vernon. In another life, she writes children's books and weird comics, and has won the Hugo, Sequoyah, and Ursa Major awards, as well as a half-dozen Junior Library Guild selections.
This is the name she uses when writing things for grown-ups.
When she is not writing, she is probably out in the garden, trying to make eye contact with butterflies.
This is the name she uses when writing things for grown-ups.
When she is not writing, she is probably out in the garden, trying to make eye contact with butterflies.
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June 22, 2024
T. Kingfisher isn't the only exceptionally talented paranormal thriller author whose books I eagerly devour; she's the one I'd even volunteer to read if she ever ventured into writing scripts for Bachelorette shows (though thankfully, she's far too smart for that). Her books are simply phenomenal, consistently earning nothing less than five stars from me. After realizing that I've devoured ten of her books, with only one receiving a four-star rating, I can confidently say that each one deserves all the praise it gets. They're unique, eerie, heart-throbbing, and utterly unputdownable, featuring original characters and eccentric plot lines that keep me hooked from start to finish.
Her latest paranormal thriller, a reimagining of the Brothers Grimm's "Goose Girl," delves deep into the disturbing theme of parental abuse with horrifying devilish vibes. Cordelia, a fourteen-year-old girl, finds herself trapped in a nightmarish existence under the tyrannical rule of her sorceress mother, Evangeline. Controlled and manipulated for years, Cordelia is isolated from the outside world, her only confidant being the eerie horse, Falada, who serves as her mother's familiar.
But Cordelia soon discovers that her mother's powers extend far beyond mere manipulation, as Evangeline sets her sights on the wealthy Squire and his companion, Hester. Unbeknownst to Evangeline, Hester senses the impending danger and begins her own scheme to thwart her. With the help of family friends, Miss Penelope Grenn and her lover Richard, Hester orchestrates a gathering at their home, hoping to expose Evangeline's true nature before it's too late.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Cordelia must find the courage to confront her mother and the horrors that lurk within their household. Can Hester and her allies stop Evangeline before she unleashes unspeakable evil upon them all?
Overall, this reimagined paranormal thriller is a quick, heart-throbbing ride filled with twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning the pages. I can't wait to dive into T. Kingfisher's next book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for providing me with a digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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Her latest paranormal thriller, a reimagining of the Brothers Grimm's "Goose Girl," delves deep into the disturbing theme of parental abuse with horrifying devilish vibes. Cordelia, a fourteen-year-old girl, finds herself trapped in a nightmarish existence under the tyrannical rule of her sorceress mother, Evangeline. Controlled and manipulated for years, Cordelia is isolated from the outside world, her only confidant being the eerie horse, Falada, who serves as her mother's familiar.
But Cordelia soon discovers that her mother's powers extend far beyond mere manipulation, as Evangeline sets her sights on the wealthy Squire and his companion, Hester. Unbeknownst to Evangeline, Hester senses the impending danger and begins her own scheme to thwart her. With the help of family friends, Miss Penelope Grenn and her lover Richard, Hester orchestrates a gathering at their home, hoping to expose Evangeline's true nature before it's too late.
As tensions rise and secrets unravel, Cordelia must find the courage to confront her mother and the horrors that lurk within their household. Can Hester and her allies stop Evangeline before she unleashes unspeakable evil upon them all?
Overall, this reimagined paranormal thriller is a quick, heart-throbbing ride filled with twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning the pages. I can't wait to dive into T. Kingfisher's next book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Publishing Group for providing me with a digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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April 4, 2024
I cannot even put into words how much I loved this book. Okay, I mean, I guess I can put it into words since that's kind of the whole point of this review, but I know I'm not going to do it justice at all. I've been in a minor reading slump lately and have just been slogging my way through even my most exciting reads, but I finished this one in under twenty-four hours. And the reason for that is because it's awesome!
Based on the NetGalley and Goodreads blurbs, I figured that this book would be rather dark. I've read a lot of really dark books lately and wasn't sure that I was quite ready for another one, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Sure, there are some dark parts and the villain is very, very evil and, um, villainous (I'm not Shakespeare, okay?), but overall it's a delightful tale full of heart and bravery and … defense geese. There's humor and (admittedly dark) magic and even a little bit of romance, and if you've read my previous reviews, you might recall that I'm I'm not a big fan of the lovey-dovey stuff. This romance is absolutely perfect, however, and Hester and Lord Evermore make quite the entertaining (non)couple.
And, oh my gosh, the characters in this book are simply outstanding. Cordelia is a perfectly fine main character, but it's really the side characters that make this book what it is. Hester and and Imogene and Penelope and Willard are all wonderfully witty and entertaining, and they are totally the type of people that I'd want to be friends with. Other than the obvious villain (and her creepy familiar), there's really not a single unlikeable character in this book.
Honestly, I can't think of a single bit of criticism for this novel and that's a rarity for me. I've enjoyed most of T. Kingfisher's other books, but she's definitely outdone herself this time – it's by far my favorite of anything she's written.
I feel as if this review should be longer considering how much I enjoyed this story, but I guess it ultimately just boils down to me saying that you should read this book as soon as possible because it is seriously brilliant.
My overall rating: a resounding five stars! A Sorceress Comes to Call will undoubtably be one of the highlights of my 2024 reads.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. The expected publication date is August 6, 2024.
Based on the NetGalley and Goodreads blurbs, I figured that this book would be rather dark. I've read a lot of really dark books lately and wasn't sure that I was quite ready for another one, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Sure, there are some dark parts and the villain is very, very evil and, um, villainous (I'm not Shakespeare, okay?), but overall it's a delightful tale full of heart and bravery and … defense geese. There's humor and (admittedly dark) magic and even a little bit of romance, and if you've read my previous reviews, you might recall that I'm I'm not a big fan of the lovey-dovey stuff. This romance is absolutely perfect, however, and Hester and Lord Evermore make quite the entertaining (non)couple.
And, oh my gosh, the characters in this book are simply outstanding. Cordelia is a perfectly fine main character, but it's really the side characters that make this book what it is. Hester and and Imogene and Penelope and Willard are all wonderfully witty and entertaining, and they are totally the type of people that I'd want to be friends with. Other than the obvious villain (and her creepy familiar), there's really not a single unlikeable character in this book.
Honestly, I can't think of a single bit of criticism for this novel and that's a rarity for me. I've enjoyed most of T. Kingfisher's other books, but she's definitely outdone herself this time – it's by far my favorite of anything she's written.
I feel as if this review should be longer considering how much I enjoyed this story, but I guess it ultimately just boils down to me saying that you should read this book as soon as possible because it is seriously brilliant.
My overall rating: a resounding five stars! A Sorceress Comes to Call will undoubtably be one of the highlights of my 2024 reads.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. The expected publication date is August 6, 2024.
June 9, 2024
I listened the audiobook version. The narrators are fantastic at giving an eerie quality to the story and it really added to my experience, so I would recommend this format.
This is a wonderfully written story and I do say wonderful because it gave me a real sense of wonder that I rarely find in fantasy anymore.
It's dark and beautiful, and immerses you in its world.
The characters are compelling and more complex than I expected, the world building is great and the resolution so satisfying.
4.5 stars.
This is a wonderfully written story and I do say wonderful because it gave me a real sense of wonder that I rarely find in fantasy anymore.
It's dark and beautiful, and immerses you in its world.
The characters are compelling and more complex than I expected, the world building is great and the resolution so satisfying.
4.5 stars.
Currently reading
July 23, 2024This is billed as "a dark retelling of The Goose Girl," but let's be real, the original German fairytale captured by the Brothers Grimm is already pretty macabre... T. Kingfisher, let's see what you got!
My heartfelt thanks to NetGalley & Titan Books for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
My heartfelt thanks to NetGalley & Titan Books for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2024
Kingfisher's latest is well written and up to her usual high standards, but in all probability, I will never read it again. It brought back unpleasant echoes of reading The Yellow Wallpaper, only somewhat more entertaining.
Billed as a "dark retelling of Grimm's The Goose Girl," for those familiar with the tale, I'll note that it really isn't a retelling in all the important ways. It does have a horse, a flock of geese, a young woman, and a mother, but the relationships between all those things are scrambled. For me, the choices that Kingfisher made missed the lessons of the fairy tale; should I be in marketing on this one, I'd suggest describing as 'inspired by.'
It begins with Cordelia living with her mom in an isolated village hamlet. Told in limited third person, we're squarely in Cordelia's head, knowing what she knows and experiencing what she notices. Cordelia might be 14, but it becomes quickly apparent that she is so much younger, the likely outcome of a manipulative and literally controlling mother.
"She was made obedient less often as she grew older. She thought perhaps that it was more difficult for her mother to do than it had been when she was small--or perhaps it was only that she had learned to avoid the things that made her m other angry. But this time, Cordelia hadn't avoided it."
While Cordelia has figured out her sorceress mother isn't normal, she only has an inkling on how abnormal she is. Her one escape is riding her mother's beautiful horse Falada. One day, she gathers enough courage to ride to the limits of her range and has her heart broken when she discovers the truth about someone she thought of as a best friend. But even more change is coming; her mother is on the make for a new male benefactor and they are soon riding off to visit a rich man. Unfortunately, he comes with an unmarried sister, Hester, and a number of spirited servants.
At this point in the book, I was well worn out by Cordelia's experience. Kingfisher is spot-on at capturing the viewpoint of someone who is abused but only dimly suspects just how abused, and it is an emotionally tough line to walk. Introducing the viewpoint of Hester, an older, physically limited spinster was a brilliant touch, allowing for more directional and courageous machinations, along with a touch of humor.
"One of the advantages of age was that you could think a great deal while simply sitting still, and no one would poke you and demand that you go do something useful."
The story did feel like it got a bit lost with the introductions of two of Hester's besties who come to visit her, although it later becomes clear why. Still, the stakes escalate as Cordelia's mother incrementally weaves her web around the squire.
"I made you,' her mother said, looking straight ahead. 'I made him and I made you, and you belong to me. Don't forget it.'"
It is a well-told story, and if I have quibbles with pacing in retrospect, it could just be because it was so hard to witness Cordelia's life. Transformation does eventually come, in fits and stops, much like real life. It's not an easy path.
"It was the calm of a burned-out house or a ravaged field, the calm that comes where there is no longer anything to lose."
There is a little humor, mostly wry. The geese are a bright spot, but they don't really show until the last quarter of the book. Ultimately, when I'm going to re-read Kingfisher, I'll undoubtedly head for Nettle & Bone or her alt and the delightful Castle Hangnail.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Tor/Forge. Clearly, opinions are my own. Quotes subject to change but give a feel for the writing.
Billed as a "dark retelling of Grimm's The Goose Girl," for those familiar with the tale, I'll note that it really isn't a retelling in all the important ways. It does have a horse, a flock of geese, a young woman, and a mother, but the relationships between all those things are scrambled. For me, the choices that Kingfisher made missed the lessons of the fairy tale; should I be in marketing on this one, I'd suggest describing as 'inspired by.'
It begins with Cordelia living with her mom in an isolated village hamlet. Told in limited third person, we're squarely in Cordelia's head, knowing what she knows and experiencing what she notices. Cordelia might be 14, but it becomes quickly apparent that she is so much younger, the likely outcome of a manipulative and literally controlling mother.
"She was made obedient less often as she grew older. She thought perhaps that it was more difficult for her mother to do than it had been when she was small--or perhaps it was only that she had learned to avoid the things that made her m other angry. But this time, Cordelia hadn't avoided it."
While Cordelia has figured out her sorceress mother isn't normal, she only has an inkling on how abnormal she is. Her one escape is riding her mother's beautiful horse Falada. One day, she gathers enough courage to ride to the limits of her range and has her heart broken when she discovers the truth about someone she thought of as a best friend. But even more change is coming; her mother is on the make for a new male benefactor and they are soon riding off to visit a rich man. Unfortunately, he comes with an unmarried sister, Hester, and a number of spirited servants.
At this point in the book, I was well worn out by Cordelia's experience. Kingfisher is spot-on at capturing the viewpoint of someone who is abused but only dimly suspects just how abused, and it is an emotionally tough line to walk. Introducing the viewpoint of Hester, an older, physically limited spinster was a brilliant touch, allowing for more directional and courageous machinations, along with a touch of humor.
"One of the advantages of age was that you could think a great deal while simply sitting still, and no one would poke you and demand that you go do something useful."
The story did feel like it got a bit lost with the introductions of two of Hester's besties who come to visit her, although it later becomes clear why. Still, the stakes escalate as Cordelia's mother incrementally weaves her web around the squire.
"I made you,' her mother said, looking straight ahead. 'I made him and I made you, and you belong to me. Don't forget it.'"
It is a well-told story, and if I have quibbles with pacing in retrospect, it could just be because it was so hard to witness Cordelia's life. Transformation does eventually come, in fits and stops, much like real life. It's not an easy path.
"It was the calm of a burned-out house or a ravaged field, the calm that comes where there is no longer anything to lose."
There is a little humor, mostly wry. The geese are a bright spot, but they don't really show until the last quarter of the book. Ultimately, when I'm going to re-read Kingfisher, I'll undoubtedly head for Nettle & Bone or her alt and the delightful Castle Hangnail.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Tor/Forge. Clearly, opinions are my own. Quotes subject to change but give a feel for the writing.
June 2, 2024
T. Kingfisher can do no wrong in my book! I was instantly captivated and swept away by this tale of forbidden magic, secrets, danger, and cunning. A Sorceress Comes to Call is a brilliant, gripping, and dark retelling of the Fairy tale The Goose Girl: A Story from the Brothers Grimm by the Brothers Grimm. T. Kingfisher is such a unique, gifted, and talented writer. If you have not read a book by this author, you are missing out!
Cordelia's mother, Evangeline, is a sorceress who demands obedience and wields her 'magical' control whenever she can. Cordelia is forced to remain still for various lengths of time. She lives in fear and must flee their home with her mother after Evangeline gets into a little hot water and they end up at the home of the Squire. A man Evangeline hopes to woo and wed. Cordelia feels out of her element in such a grand home but is quickly befriended by the Squires sister, Hester, and is treated with kindness by the staff of the manor. Hester knows something isn't right. She is very observant and clever; she knows that Evangeline is up to no good. How can she save her brother from this evil sorceress???
A Sorceress Comes to Call is simply brilliant. Seriously, it's amazing! I had a hard time putting it down when life got in the way. I loved all the characters, even Evangeline who is so wickedly drawn. T. Kingfisher has a knack for creating characters that are fully fleshed out, interesting, and quirky. I adored the collection of personalities, their motivations, and banter. T. Kingfisher also excels at creating unique settings/locations which ooze with atmosphere. I could imagine the manor, the woods, and felt as if I was immersed in the action as a silent observer.
What a brilliant book that touches on magic, abuse, love, danger, revenge, family, friendship, and good vs. evil. I loved the sense of unease which grew as the book progressed. I also enjoyed the mounting danger, the tension, and the suspense which grew throughout the book.
I was lucky enough to have both the e-book and audiobook version which made for a wonderful reading experience! The narrators of the audiobook did a fabulous job.
I was literally on the edge of my seat and loving every second. I devoured this book. I could gush about this book all day, but I will end by saying READ IT!
Dark, brilliant, and captivating. Highly Recommend.
Thank you to Tor Publishing Group, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Cordelia's mother, Evangeline, is a sorceress who demands obedience and wields her 'magical' control whenever she can. Cordelia is forced to remain still for various lengths of time. She lives in fear and must flee their home with her mother after Evangeline gets into a little hot water and they end up at the home of the Squire. A man Evangeline hopes to woo and wed. Cordelia feels out of her element in such a grand home but is quickly befriended by the Squires sister, Hester, and is treated with kindness by the staff of the manor. Hester knows something isn't right. She is very observant and clever; she knows that Evangeline is up to no good. How can she save her brother from this evil sorceress???
A Sorceress Comes to Call is simply brilliant. Seriously, it's amazing! I had a hard time putting it down when life got in the way. I loved all the characters, even Evangeline who is so wickedly drawn. T. Kingfisher has a knack for creating characters that are fully fleshed out, interesting, and quirky. I adored the collection of personalities, their motivations, and banter. T. Kingfisher also excels at creating unique settings/locations which ooze with atmosphere. I could imagine the manor, the woods, and felt as if I was immersed in the action as a silent observer.
What a brilliant book that touches on magic, abuse, love, danger, revenge, family, friendship, and good vs. evil. I loved the sense of unease which grew as the book progressed. I also enjoyed the mounting danger, the tension, and the suspense which grew throughout the book.
I was lucky enough to have both the e-book and audiobook version which made for a wonderful reading experience! The narrators of the audiobook did a fabulous job.
I was literally on the edge of my seat and loving every second. I devoured this book. I could gush about this book all day, but I will end by saying READ IT!
Dark, brilliant, and captivating. Highly Recommend.
Thank you to Tor Publishing Group, Macmillan Audio and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
June 27, 2024
Crying was not acceptable. That had been one of the first lessons of being made obedient. Cordelia was fourteen and too old to cry for seemingly no reason, because of course, she could not tell anyone the reason.
A Sorceress Comes to Call is a dark, chilling tale of Cordelia, the sorceress's daughter, realizing she doesn't have to stay in her mother's control, and Hester, a beloved spinster trying her best to wrench her brother from the sorceress's charms.
I haven't seen a lot of similarity with The Goose Girl fairytale, as it was advertised, but soon saw that this story stands very well on its own. T. Kingfisher's voice is as brilliant as always, the tone of the story is more uncanny and fairytale like than her usual wryly humourous.
The world-building is great, starting out with little information, but soon digging up books on magic with good detail! And I like characters that do their proper share of research in libraries! The eerie uncanny magic shown here fits in great with the dark vibes of the book.
The vivid characters are the strong foundation for this book. Cordelia has the largest growth arc, and shows tremendous strength in overcoming her mother, a woman who truly does not seem to care for her. The older characters are drawn well and though they don't change much, they find their own version of a happy ending! There is a great deal of trust between Hester and her friends, which is wonderful and really shines towards the end.
Thanks to NetGalley, T. Kingfisher and Macmillan Audio/ Tor Publishing group for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and the narrators Eliza Foss and Jennifer Pickens did a great job with it.
The quote is from the ARC and can change in the published version.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The rating for this book is 4 1/2 stars, rounded up to 5 stars. I wavered a bit, but apart from the fact that I almost always round up, this book really drew me in even when I was busy.
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the story; 3/4 star for the characters; 3/4 star for the writing; One star for the world-building and description - 4 1/2 stars in total.]
A Sorceress Comes to Call is a dark, chilling tale of Cordelia, the sorceress's daughter, realizing she doesn't have to stay in her mother's control, and Hester, a beloved spinster trying her best to wrench her brother from the sorceress's charms.
I haven't seen a lot of similarity with The Goose Girl fairytale, as it was advertised, but soon saw that this story stands very well on its own. T. Kingfisher's voice is as brilliant as always, the tone of the story is more uncanny and fairytale like than her usual wryly humourous.
The world-building is great, starting out with little information, but soon digging up books on magic with good detail! And I like characters that do their proper share of research in libraries! The eerie uncanny magic shown here fits in great with the dark vibes of the book.
The vivid characters are the strong foundation for this book. Cordelia has the largest growth arc, and shows tremendous strength in overcoming her mother, a woman who truly does not seem to care for her. The older characters are drawn well and though they don't change much, they find their own version of a happy ending! There is a great deal of trust between Hester and her friends, which is wonderful and really shines towards the end.
Thanks to NetGalley, T. Kingfisher and Macmillan Audio/ Tor Publishing group for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and the narrators Eliza Foss and Jennifer Pickens did a great job with it.
The quote is from the ARC and can change in the published version.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The rating for this book is 4 1/2 stars, rounded up to 5 stars. I wavered a bit, but apart from the fact that I almost always round up, this book really drew me in even when I was busy.
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the story; 3/4 star for the characters; 3/4 star for the writing; One star for the world-building and description - 4 1/2 stars in total.]
Want to read
September 7, 2023Yes, yes, the last T. Kingfisher retelling sucked, but when have I seen sense and resisted a fairy tale retelling with such a promising premise as this?
Shelved as 'wishlist'
September 13, 2023MY QUEEN HAS A NEW BOOK OUT???? I NEED IT
Want to read
May 29, 2024oh it is a need for me
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➛ Nettle & Bone ★★★★★
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June 23, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
A Sorceress Comes to Call blends historical fantasy with horror elements in a dark retelling of The Goose Girl that deals with parental abuse and narcissism. I love when Kingfisher leans toward horror and I thought this was excellently written.
It's a dual perspective story, which I thought was great. The contrast between the two main characters of such different ages and experiences works really well and I was invested in both of their stories. Cordelia is a sheltered young woman with a mother who never allows her a closed door and can physically control her body through magic. But she seeks a wealthy husband who can in turn open doors for Cordelia to marry well. What she goes through is harrowing at times, but I found the story to be incredibly compelling. The original tale is already quite dark and this leans into that. If you enjoy Kingfisher's horror, I would absolutely recommend it! The audio narration is great and works perfectly for the historical narrative. I received an audio review copy of this book via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
A Sorceress Comes to Call blends historical fantasy with horror elements in a dark retelling of The Goose Girl that deals with parental abuse and narcissism. I love when Kingfisher leans toward horror and I thought this was excellently written.
It's a dual perspective story, which I thought was great. The contrast between the two main characters of such different ages and experiences works really well and I was invested in both of their stories. Cordelia is a sheltered young woman with a mother who never allows her a closed door and can physically control her body through magic. But she seeks a wealthy husband who can in turn open doors for Cordelia to marry well. What she goes through is harrowing at times, but I found the story to be incredibly compelling. The original tale is already quite dark and this leans into that. If you enjoy Kingfisher's horror, I would absolutely recommend it! The audio narration is great and works perfectly for the historical narrative. I received an audio review copy of this book via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
July 24, 2024
Cordelia lives a life unable to make any of her own choices due to her mother's literal power over her, from her thoughts to her physical body. Her only escape is riding the family horse Falada and daydreaming of what freedom might feel like.
This little book may very well be my favorite one from T Kingfisher yet.
A darkly inspired Goose Girl fairy tale retelling with some moments of horror that are so strong I still think about them when I close my eyes at night.
And the thing that I think makes Kingfisher's version of horror resonate with me and others so deeply is her ability to take you to the very edge of the idea of something so horrific that you're nearly crawling out of your skin, and then she pulls you back with a familiar character in a slightly cozy setting just for the briefest respite to allow the horror to sink in, the ideas she's talking about, but to not have to dwell in the darkness for too long.
I loved it.
Thank you so much, Tor Books, for the ARC.
This little book may very well be my favorite one from T Kingfisher yet.
A darkly inspired Goose Girl fairy tale retelling with some moments of horror that are so strong I still think about them when I close my eyes at night.
And the thing that I think makes Kingfisher's version of horror resonate with me and others so deeply is her ability to take you to the very edge of the idea of something so horrific that you're nearly crawling out of your skin, and then she pulls you back with a familiar character in a slightly cozy setting just for the briefest respite to allow the horror to sink in, the ideas she's talking about, but to not have to dwell in the darkness for too long.
I loved it.
Thank you so much, Tor Books, for the ARC.
March 24, 2024
T. Kingfisher is killing it. Her latest tale gets another five stars from me. This reimagining of “The Goose Girl” turns everything about the original tale on its head. From the very beginning, we know that Cordelia’s mother is someone not to cross. I felt Cordelia’s pain and anxiety every time she was forced to be in her mother’s presence. Kingfisher’s skill at creating unforgettable characters is on full display here.
I flew through this book and was genuinely sad when it ended. I want more, as is always the case with Kingfisher’s books. I’m glad she’s such a prolific author! I’d love to return to this world in a future book! 😉
Many thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing Group and the lovely T herself for the advance copy. All opinions are mine alone.
I flew through this book and was genuinely sad when it ended. I want more, as is always the case with Kingfisher’s books. I’m glad she’s such a prolific author! I’d love to return to this world in a future book! 😉
Many thanks to NetGalley, Tor Publishing Group and the lovely T herself for the advance copy. All opinions are mine alone.
April 6, 2024
Femme fatale with creepy horse
The publisher identifies T. Kingfisher's (AKA Ursula Vernon's) A Sorceress Comes to Call as 'a dark reimagining of the Brothers Grimm's "The Goose Girl," rife with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic'. That's fairly accurate. The Goose Girl (Die Gänsemagd) is one of the more obscure Grimm's fairy tales, by which I mean it has never, to my knowledge, been the basis of a Disney feature film, and therefore is less known than, say, Cinderella or Snow White.
If you're familiar with Grimm's Fairy Tales, you might be inclined to remark that they're pretty dark already. We owe the familiar upbeat children's romances mostly to such Bowdlerizers as Andrew Lang and, of course, Walt Disney. However, The Goose Girl strikes me as dark, even for Grimm. Most Grimm's Fairy Tales are more gruesome and bloody than scary. But The Goose Girl is more than that. There are terror and psyops. In The Goose Girl a servant woman tries to trap a prince into a marriage under false pretenses, by taking the place of a princess, whom she intimidates and from whom she forces an oath of silence.
Also, there's a super creepy horse called Falada. This is right in Ursula Vernon's wheelhouse. She's still working through some trauma resulting from a scary horse incident when she was twelve years old. Set her loose on a story with a Falada in it, and she'll give you one Hell of a scary horse. Give her the opportunity to include some heroic birds, and she's right at home. (There are no Evil Rose Bushes in this one, though.)
"Reimagining" is a good word. A Sorceress Comes to Call is not so much a retelling of The Goose Girl as a new story built on its bones. In A Sorceress Comes to Call the seductress Evangeline is a powerful sorceress -- a classic femme fatale with extra magic mojo. Much of the story is told from the point of view of her oppressed daughter Cordelia, who in part plays the role of the princess in the original story.
The first 80% of the book is a straightforward femme fatale story -- the entrapment of the male quarry by the sorceress, resisted by his and her relations. But at 80% the "dark, weird" turns up to 11. The story ends with a satisfying Bang.
I thank Tor and NetGalley for an advance reader copy of A Sorceress Comes to Call. Release date 6-Aug-2024.
Blog review.
The publisher identifies T. Kingfisher's (AKA Ursula Vernon's) A Sorceress Comes to Call as 'a dark reimagining of the Brothers Grimm's "The Goose Girl," rife with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic'. That's fairly accurate. The Goose Girl (Die Gänsemagd) is one of the more obscure Grimm's fairy tales, by which I mean it has never, to my knowledge, been the basis of a Disney feature film, and therefore is less known than, say, Cinderella or Snow White.
If you're familiar with Grimm's Fairy Tales, you might be inclined to remark that they're pretty dark already. We owe the familiar upbeat children's romances mostly to such Bowdlerizers as Andrew Lang and, of course, Walt Disney. However, The Goose Girl strikes me as dark, even for Grimm. Most Grimm's Fairy Tales are more gruesome and bloody than scary. But The Goose Girl is more than that. There are terror and psyops. In The Goose Girl a servant woman tries to trap a prince into a marriage under false pretenses, by taking the place of a princess, whom she intimidates and from whom she forces an oath of silence.
Also, there's a super creepy horse called Falada. This is right in Ursula Vernon's wheelhouse. She's still working through some trauma resulting from a scary horse incident when she was twelve years old. Set her loose on a story with a Falada in it, and she'll give you one Hell of a scary horse. Give her the opportunity to include some heroic birds, and she's right at home. (There are no Evil Rose Bushes in this one, though.)
"Reimagining" is a good word. A Sorceress Comes to Call is not so much a retelling of The Goose Girl as a new story built on its bones. In A Sorceress Comes to Call the seductress Evangeline is a powerful sorceress -- a classic femme fatale with extra magic mojo. Much of the story is told from the point of view of her oppressed daughter Cordelia, who in part plays the role of the princess in the original story.
The first 80% of the book is a straightforward femme fatale story -- the entrapment of the male quarry by the sorceress, resisted by his and her relations. But at 80% the "dark, weird" turns up to 11. The story ends with a satisfying Bang.
I thank Tor and NetGalley for an advance reader copy of A Sorceress Comes to Call. Release date 6-Aug-2024.
Blog review.
June 22, 2024
Regency meets sorcery. Cozy meets horrifying. T Kingfisher and her traumatic past with horses.
Cordelia’s mother plans to marry a rich Squire and marry Cordelia off to someone even richer. Only thing is, her mother is an evil sorceress and extremely controlling and manipulative.
When Cordelia moves to the estate of her mother’s newest target, she finds a place that makes her feel safer and a wonderful friend in Hester, the Squire’s older sister.
Hester is amazing! A fifty-one year old shrewd, witty woman who has a heart of gold, immediately takes Cordelia under her wing, and is extremely suspicious of Cordelia’s mother (nicknamed Doom) and her ambitions.
”Eh?" Hester realized that her brother had been speaking. "What was that? You have to speak up, my hearing's not what it was." (This was entirely untrue, but she had found that it was a very good excuse when she had simply been ignoring a dull conversation.)
T Kingfisher tackles some heavy topics with a drop of cozy and heartwarming protagonists.
Her mother can make Cordelia be obedient which made her akin to a puppet- controlling her body but Cordelia is still inside looking out helpless.
When we first meet her, and for most of the book, Cordelia is extremely meek and scared and unsure. Closing the door when she was home alone was as much rebellion as she initially dared. Living on an estate where she can suddenly close doors, keep secrets, and have a lovely maid is novelty to her.
Her mother's good moods had once been more difficult to live with than the bad ones. Cordelia had dared to hope that things would change, that all would be better, that there would be no more obedience, and the weight of her hope had crushed her beneath it. Now she no longer had such illusions.
Expect tensely fraught dinner conversations, delightful dinner guests, knitting, card games, but also grizzly murders.
This is a comedic book of Jane Austen-esque manners, but there is also a grisly, headless, glowing horse that roams the grounds at night.
T Kingfisher has definitely become an auto-read author for me and her range is INSANE!
Thank you to Tor for providing the physical arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
Cordelia’s mother plans to marry a rich Squire and marry Cordelia off to someone even richer. Only thing is, her mother is an evil sorceress and extremely controlling and manipulative.
When Cordelia moves to the estate of her mother’s newest target, she finds a place that makes her feel safer and a wonderful friend in Hester, the Squire’s older sister.
Hester is amazing! A fifty-one year old shrewd, witty woman who has a heart of gold, immediately takes Cordelia under her wing, and is extremely suspicious of Cordelia’s mother (nicknamed Doom) and her ambitions.
”Eh?" Hester realized that her brother had been speaking. "What was that? You have to speak up, my hearing's not what it was." (This was entirely untrue, but she had found that it was a very good excuse when she had simply been ignoring a dull conversation.)
T Kingfisher tackles some heavy topics with a drop of cozy and heartwarming protagonists.
Her mother can make Cordelia be obedient which made her akin to a puppet- controlling her body but Cordelia is still inside looking out helpless.
When we first meet her, and for most of the book, Cordelia is extremely meek and scared and unsure. Closing the door when she was home alone was as much rebellion as she initially dared. Living on an estate where she can suddenly close doors, keep secrets, and have a lovely maid is novelty to her.
Her mother's good moods had once been more difficult to live with than the bad ones. Cordelia had dared to hope that things would change, that all would be better, that there would be no more obedience, and the weight of her hope had crushed her beneath it. Now she no longer had such illusions.
Expect tensely fraught dinner conversations, delightful dinner guests, knitting, card games, but also grizzly murders.
This is a comedic book of Jane Austen-esque manners, but there is also a grisly, headless, glowing horse that roams the grounds at night.
T Kingfisher has definitely become an auto-read author for me and her range is INSANE!
Thank you to Tor for providing the physical arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
July 23, 2024
T. Kingfisher has become a staple of my literary diet! Everything she writes is tinged with humor and usually animals of some sort are involved. A Sorceress Comes to Call is no exception. All the things I love about this author are here.
Young Cordelia has a tough life. Her father is no longer around and her mother, well-her mother is special. If Cordelia misbehaves, she could be made to sit for hours. In the same position. Without doing anything other than breathe. Her mother calls this making her "obedient." But in anyone else's eyes, this is abuse. One night, her mother rides off on the family horse and when she returns, she tells Cordelia they're moving. In a jumble of activity, soon Cordelia finds herself and her mother knocking on the door of a country squire and her life changes forever. Hester, the squire's sister recognizes immediately that something is wrong with Cordelia, and she sees that Cord is absolutely terrified by her mother. She also suspects that her mother, the evil Evangeline, is scheming to make this family her own. Will her awful mother succeed? Will Cordelia ever be able to get out from under her mother's thumb, (or spell?) You'll have to read this to find out!
This is supposed to be a type of retelling of The Goose Girl, a tale collected by the Brothers Grimm. I'll say up front that I haven't read it and am not familiar with it, so I cannot say how close this story is to that one. However, I can say this book was great fun!
I can easily picture all of these characters. I think Kingfisher is amazing at character development. She makes it all look and feel easy, if that makes any sense. She's a natural born storyteller, in my opinion. She doesn't ever labor over long-winded descriptions of her characters-their traits and personalities come through naturally in other ways. In this book, it was Hester and her gaggle of geese that really spoke to me-she was so sweet to Cordelia and it was plain that she not only wanted to protect her brother the squire, but she also wanted to protect Cordelia. It was easy to hate Cordelia's mother, and as the story progresses, the reader cannot help but wish that Evangeline gets what's coming to her.
A Sorceress Comes to Call is just plain FUN. It's an exciting tale and it moves quickly. Every minute I wasn't reading I wanted to be. 336 pages flew by in a matter of only a few days, (though the pace did slow a bit in the middle.) As I sadly finished, I realized I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters. I would love to see more Cordelia and Hester in the future. So if you could get right on that. Ms. Kingfisher, it would be appreciated!
Highly recommended!
*ARC from publisher.*
Young Cordelia has a tough life. Her father is no longer around and her mother, well-her mother is special. If Cordelia misbehaves, she could be made to sit for hours. In the same position. Without doing anything other than breathe. Her mother calls this making her "obedient." But in anyone else's eyes, this is abuse. One night, her mother rides off on the family horse and when she returns, she tells Cordelia they're moving. In a jumble of activity, soon Cordelia finds herself and her mother knocking on the door of a country squire and her life changes forever. Hester, the squire's sister recognizes immediately that something is wrong with Cordelia, and she sees that Cord is absolutely terrified by her mother. She also suspects that her mother, the evil Evangeline, is scheming to make this family her own. Will her awful mother succeed? Will Cordelia ever be able to get out from under her mother's thumb, (or spell?) You'll have to read this to find out!
This is supposed to be a type of retelling of The Goose Girl, a tale collected by the Brothers Grimm. I'll say up front that I haven't read it and am not familiar with it, so I cannot say how close this story is to that one. However, I can say this book was great fun!
I can easily picture all of these characters. I think Kingfisher is amazing at character development. She makes it all look and feel easy, if that makes any sense. She's a natural born storyteller, in my opinion. She doesn't ever labor over long-winded descriptions of her characters-their traits and personalities come through naturally in other ways. In this book, it was Hester and her gaggle of geese that really spoke to me-she was so sweet to Cordelia and it was plain that she not only wanted to protect her brother the squire, but she also wanted to protect Cordelia. It was easy to hate Cordelia's mother, and as the story progresses, the reader cannot help but wish that Evangeline gets what's coming to her.
A Sorceress Comes to Call is just plain FUN. It's an exciting tale and it moves quickly. Every minute I wasn't reading I wanted to be. 336 pages flew by in a matter of only a few days, (though the pace did slow a bit in the middle.) As I sadly finished, I realized I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters. I would love to see more Cordelia and Hester in the future. So if you could get right on that. Ms. Kingfisher, it would be appreciated!
Highly recommended!
*ARC from publisher.*
Want to read
October 19, 2023T. Kingfisher has announced -
June 25, 2024
When T. Kingfisher writes it, I read it! This is yet another incredible hit. I love how the author creates an atmosphere that enriches the book on multiple levels. Unfamiliar with Grimms' "Goose Girl," I found everything fresh and original in Kingfisher's voice. The story felt like a dark coming-of-age tale, infused with mystery, magic, and murder! While the pacing occasionally seemed uneven, I never mind slowing down in T. Kingfisher's books to savor the story. I also felt the pacing reflected the main character's emotions and the lull in her life before everything intensified and a lot started happening. I felt like a conspirator along with the characters, and always interested in what was going to happen next.
If you enjoy T. Kingfisher's work, this book will be another hit for you!
I had a chance to also listen to the audiobook and the narration was great. I don't think that it necessarily added anything to the story but I can always appreciate a crisp and clear narration.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book.
If you enjoy T. Kingfisher's work, this book will be another hit for you!
I had a chance to also listen to the audiobook and the narration was great. I don't think that it necessarily added anything to the story but I can always appreciate a crisp and clear narration.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book.
Shelved as 'wishlist'
July 22, 2024July 22, 2024: the paperback is cheaper than the Kindle edition?! What the bloody fish?!
15.49€ for an ebook?? ARE YOU BLOODY SHRIMPING KIDDING ME???!!!
T. Kingfisher, our Lord Shrimps knows I lurves you to death and would sacrifice a bunch of my murderous children for you, but 15.49€ for an ebook??? I. THINK. NOT.
15.49€ for an ebook?? ARE YOU BLOODY SHRIMPING KIDDING ME???!!!
T. Kingfisher, our Lord Shrimps knows I lurves you to death and would sacrifice a bunch of my murderous children for you, but 15.49€ for an ebook??? I. THINK. NOT.
July 19, 2024
This is being marketed as a dark retelling of The Goose Girl fairy tale, and while that is true in some aspects, it's also very much not. As someone who is completely over retellings as a literary trend, it feels more like The Goose Girl fairy tale was inspiration, and there are some pieces of it still embedded in this to link it to that, but it's also so much more than just a retelling or re-imagining.
This is historical fantasy set in a Regency-esque time. Our main character Cordelia is the daughter of the titular Sorceress, a cruel and narcissistic woman who'll do whatever it takes to improve their standing in society. Cordelia is a beaten down, broken young girl who does whatever her mother tells her to - literally, at times. We do get a second POV from Hester, the sister of the man that the Sorceress has her eyes on. Hester is in her fifties, has a bad knee, and a premonition that Doom has come to call.
A Sorceress Comes to Call is a delightful dark blend of a novel of manners and historical fantasy, of fairy tail whimsy and dark horror. It deals with emotional abuse and narcissism, with complex family relationships and old friendships and romances. All of the character work is a delight, but it's especially wonderful following Cordelia and Hester as they try to figure out how to undo the horrible knot that the Sorceress has tangled them all up in.
T. Kingfisher succeeds yet again with another dark fantasy, which is especially delightful for me as I didn't enjoy Thornhedge much last year.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for the eARC! A Sorceress Comes to Call will be available on August 6th, 2024.
This is historical fantasy set in a Regency-esque time. Our main character Cordelia is the daughter of the titular Sorceress, a cruel and narcissistic woman who'll do whatever it takes to improve their standing in society. Cordelia is a beaten down, broken young girl who does whatever her mother tells her to - literally, at times. We do get a second POV from Hester, the sister of the man that the Sorceress has her eyes on. Hester is in her fifties, has a bad knee, and a premonition that Doom has come to call.
A Sorceress Comes to Call is a delightful dark blend of a novel of manners and historical fantasy, of fairy tail whimsy and dark horror. It deals with emotional abuse and narcissism, with complex family relationships and old friendships and romances. All of the character work is a delight, but it's especially wonderful following Cordelia and Hester as they try to figure out how to undo the horrible knot that the Sorceress has tangled them all up in.
T. Kingfisher succeeds yet again with another dark fantasy, which is especially delightful for me as I didn't enjoy Thornhedge much last year.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for the eARC! A Sorceress Comes to Call will be available on August 6th, 2024.
June 6, 2024
This is probably my second favourite Ursula Vernon book of all time (the first being The Raven & the Reindeer, because that was so specifically made for me). She just really does a great job with fairytale retellings.
Mind you, this is so wildly different from the source material that I wouldn't be able to say "Goose Girl" was the inspiration if not for the synopsis. It's also probably the darkest I've read from her, as there's a lot of trauma and abuse and manipulation that is scarier -for me- than any of her horror stories.
I think she really held back on the humor, and I find myself missing it a little; though the humorous bits that made it to the final edit were tasteful and made me smile, even at the darkest of story beats.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mind you, this is so wildly different from the source material that I wouldn't be able to say "Goose Girl" was the inspiration if not for the synopsis. It's also probably the darkest I've read from her, as there's a lot of trauma and abuse and manipulation that is scarier -for me- than any of her horror stories.
I think she really held back on the humor, and I find myself missing it a little; though the humorous bits that made it to the final edit were tasteful and made me smile, even at the darkest of story beats.
Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
![Profile Image for laurel [the suspected bibliophile].](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1645808644i/7494844._UX200_CR0,6,200,200_.jpg)
July 17, 2024
A very, very loose retelling of The Goose Girl, in that there are geese and a horse named Falada and that's about it.
I enjoyed this, more for its examination of an abusive mother-daughter relationship (although I ended up wanting more, chiefly on what Cordelia was), and for its dual POV perspective between a fourteen year old and a fifty-one year old (yay older heroines!).
It is Regency-adjacent in tone, although the world setting is nebulous and vaguely Englandy it doesn't quite feel like England. And the upstairs-downstairs relationships (particularly Willard and Alice) had my whole heart.
Anywho, a solid Kingfisher book, even if it's not a favorite.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
I enjoyed this, more for its examination of an abusive mother-daughter relationship (although I ended up wanting more, chiefly on what Cordelia was), and for its dual POV perspective between a fourteen year old and a fifty-one year old (yay older heroines!).
It is Regency-adjacent in tone, although the world setting is nebulous and vaguely Englandy it doesn't quite feel like England. And the upstairs-downstairs relationships (particularly Willard and Alice) had my whole heart.
Anywho, a solid Kingfisher book, even if it's not a favorite.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
June 25, 2024
First things first- I’m unfamiliar with the story that “A Sorceress Comes to Call” is a retelling of: Goose Girl. Because of this, I cannot comment on it as a retelling. I am also unfamiliar with T. Kingfisher’s work as a whole.
“A Sorceress Comes to Call” almost lured me into obedience, like the main character Cordelia is by her mother. The beginning of the book felt like not much was actually happening, but I could not put it down. T. Kingfisher is an amazing writer that knows how to captivate an audience.
T. Kingfisher’s most recent work has something that all good books need for me: lovable characters. You root for Cordelia from the start. You find yourself trusting Hester. You laugh at the things Imogene says. But there are also characters you hate so much, that you cannot help but root for their downfall. And isn’t that fun too?
I listened to the audiobook and felt both narrators did an amazing job. I feel like listening to the audiobook enhanced the experience.
After reading “A Sorceress Comes to Call” I will definitely be picking up more T. Kingfisher novels.
Thank you for NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the ARC!
“A Sorceress Comes to Call” almost lured me into obedience, like the main character Cordelia is by her mother. The beginning of the book felt like not much was actually happening, but I could not put it down. T. Kingfisher is an amazing writer that knows how to captivate an audience.
T. Kingfisher’s most recent work has something that all good books need for me: lovable characters. You root for Cordelia from the start. You find yourself trusting Hester. You laugh at the things Imogene says. But there are also characters you hate so much, that you cannot help but root for their downfall. And isn’t that fun too?
I listened to the audiobook and felt both narrators did an amazing job. I feel like listening to the audiobook enhanced the experience.
After reading “A Sorceress Comes to Call” I will definitely be picking up more T. Kingfisher novels.
Thank you for NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for the ARC!
July 14, 2024
Not my favorite T. Kingfisher novel by far, but the woman could never fully disappoint me. I mean, a young girl teaming up with some old ladies and the staff to stop her evil sorceress mother (and her horse)? What an intriguing premise. But while the story was both wholesome and horrifying, it was also just a little too slow and a bit boring for my taste.
June 9, 2024
Another great book by T. Kingfisher. She shines in this re-telling. Full review closer to release date.
Want to read
March 24, 2024ARC received!! Thank you so much, Tor!
I love getting more than one new Kingfisher a year. I've already read and loved What Feasts at Night, and am so excited to check this one out!
I love getting more than one new Kingfisher a year. I've already read and loved What Feasts at Night, and am so excited to check this one out!
July 25, 2024
This book was absolutely a delight start to finish. It was charming, magical, sweet, mysterious, and funny. Top favorite fantasy book I’ve read this year!
Told from two POVs, starting with young Cordelia as we learn about her sorceress mother, Evangeline. Then Hester, sister to Samuel, the Squire, whom Evangeline set her sights on.
I adored Cordelia, she has a wonderful character arc spanning from her innocence and gullibility, to more confident in the presence of Lady Hester and her friends.
Hester is a spinster in her fifties, she sees right through Evangeline’s trickery and is helpless to get Samuel away from her clutches.
When Cordelia realizes her mother’s plans will hurt her new friends, she seeks their help to stop Evangeline at all cost.
I loved all the storytelling and the fast paced plot, it was a very concise tale with fantastic setting - regency with a little bit of magic, so charming and funny. All the various characters added entertainment to the book and made it insanely enjoyable. Hester’s friends, Penelope and Imogen were just the kind of company you’d want to keep! The small romance subplot for Hester and Richard was SO cute. I loved their shared history and the moments they had together. Richard Evermore is totally swoony! And can’t forget Willard, the butler, with the jokes.
I devoured the audiobook in a short amount of time! Both narrators were phenomenal. Eliza Foss voicing Hester and Jennifer Pickens, Cordelia. Their voices and chapters blended seamlessly. This was my second book narrated by Pickens, she brought a childlike innocent quality to Cordelia. Eliza Foss had a wonderful delivery for Hester and all her friends, very high class with the time period. I’m looking forward to listening to more books with these narrators and picking up the next T. Kingfisher book off my shelf!
Thank you Tor Books for the eARC and Macmillan Audio for the listening copy to review.
Told from two POVs, starting with young Cordelia as we learn about her sorceress mother, Evangeline. Then Hester, sister to Samuel, the Squire, whom Evangeline set her sights on.
I adored Cordelia, she has a wonderful character arc spanning from her innocence and gullibility, to more confident in the presence of Lady Hester and her friends.
Hester is a spinster in her fifties, she sees right through Evangeline’s trickery and is helpless to get Samuel away from her clutches.
When Cordelia realizes her mother’s plans will hurt her new friends, she seeks their help to stop Evangeline at all cost.
I loved all the storytelling and the fast paced plot, it was a very concise tale with fantastic setting - regency with a little bit of magic, so charming and funny. All the various characters added entertainment to the book and made it insanely enjoyable. Hester’s friends, Penelope and Imogen were just the kind of company you’d want to keep! The small romance subplot for Hester and Richard was SO cute. I loved their shared history and the moments they had together. Richard Evermore is totally swoony! And can’t forget Willard, the butler, with the jokes.
I devoured the audiobook in a short amount of time! Both narrators were phenomenal. Eliza Foss voicing Hester and Jennifer Pickens, Cordelia. Their voices and chapters blended seamlessly. This was my second book narrated by Pickens, she brought a childlike innocent quality to Cordelia. Eliza Foss had a wonderful delivery for Hester and all her friends, very high class with the time period. I’m looking forward to listening to more books with these narrators and picking up the next T. Kingfisher book off my shelf!
Thank you Tor Books for the eARC and Macmillan Audio for the listening copy to review.
Read
April 26, 2024thank you netgalley, tor books, and t. kingfisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! i sadly didn’t finish this one, but the writing was beautiful and the story was unique and captivating. i think i’m just not in a fantasy mood at the moment and it made it hard for me to get through. however, i plan to pick it back up, and i love this author. be sure to pick it up when it comes out because if you love fantasy, you’ll love this one
June 19, 2024
First off, let me say that Eliza Foss and Jennifer Pickens were phenomenal in the audiobook. Their talented voice acting had me checking to see if it wasn't in fact more of a full cast at work--they were that good.
I enjoyed this thoroughly! In general, If T. Kingfisher is doing something even remotely fairy-tale adjacent, I'm here for it. I quibble just a little at the publisher's characterization of A Sorceress Comes to Call as a reimagining of The Little Goose Girl, though. Wicked was a reimagining of The Wizard of Oz because it took the same basic facts and storyline and told them from a perspective that gave us a wildly different understanding of the same events. ASCtC doesn't reimagine the Grimm story so much as it borrows a (very) few elements from it: a betrothal, a talking horse named Falata, and the existence of geese in the story are really the only connecting threads, nothing thematic or even plot-wise. Which is great! The original had unfortunate messages about what awaits those who presume to climb above their station and make their betters fetch their own water (the horror). I just might have handled branding differently, to calibrate reader expectations
In some ways, the deviation from the Grimm's Goose Girl is used to good effect (in a way that is a bit spoiler-y: an expected ally is decidedly not an ally). My main moment of frustration with this otherwise delightful read came when a character who did not need to do something incredibly stupid and pointless did that thing... and though I don't love having characters make forehead-slapping asinine choices just to thicken plot, reminding myself that the character in question is just 14, in far over her head, and a lifelong victim of narcissistic abuse all helped a little bit.
Kingfisher's Paladin books, which I like but don't love-love, are romantasy, and this book certainly had a side romance taking place (not for the 14 y.o.!) that was sometimes a bit sweet and sometimes was just something I waded through on my way to the rest of the plot. But then, romance isn't my thing: YMMV. It wasn't quite off in the wings but wasn't center-stage either, if that helps. All in all, a wonderful story of the kind I expect from Kingfisher and a pair of phenomenal voice actors to really bring the audio book to life. Recommended!
I received a digital audiobook ARC from Macmillan Audio/Tor and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
P.S.: Geese are my nemesis and only Vernon (aka Kingfisher) could write a story in which I find them sympathetic, much less heroic figures! Truly she's a master of her art.
I enjoyed this thoroughly! In general, If T. Kingfisher is doing something even remotely fairy-tale adjacent, I'm here for it. I quibble just a little at the publisher's characterization of A Sorceress Comes to Call as a reimagining of The Little Goose Girl, though. Wicked was a reimagining of The Wizard of Oz because it took the same basic facts and storyline and told them from a perspective that gave us a wildly different understanding of the same events. ASCtC doesn't reimagine the Grimm story so much as it borrows a (very) few elements from it: a betrothal, a talking horse named Falata, and the existence of geese in the story are really the only connecting threads, nothing thematic or even plot-wise. Which is great! The original had unfortunate messages about what awaits those who presume to climb above their station and make their betters fetch their own water (the horror). I just might have handled branding differently, to calibrate reader expectations
In some ways, the deviation from the Grimm's Goose Girl is used to good effect (in a way that is a bit spoiler-y: an expected ally is decidedly not an ally). My main moment of frustration with this otherwise delightful read came when a character who did not need to do something incredibly stupid and pointless did that thing... and though I don't love having characters make forehead-slapping asinine choices just to thicken plot, reminding myself that the character in question is just 14, in far over her head, and a lifelong victim of narcissistic abuse all helped a little bit.
Kingfisher's Paladin books, which I like but don't love-love, are romantasy, and this book certainly had a side romance taking place (not for the 14 y.o.!) that was sometimes a bit sweet and sometimes was just something I waded through on my way to the rest of the plot. But then, romance isn't my thing: YMMV. It wasn't quite off in the wings but wasn't center-stage either, if that helps. All in all, a wonderful story of the kind I expect from Kingfisher and a pair of phenomenal voice actors to really bring the audio book to life. Recommended!
I received a digital audiobook ARC from Macmillan Audio/Tor and Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
P.S.: Geese are my nemesis and only Vernon (aka Kingfisher) could write a story in which I find them sympathetic, much less heroic figures! Truly she's a master of her art.
Want to read
September 2, 2023If she keeps writing 'em, I'll keep reading 'em.
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