Based in Russian fairy tales this atmospheric novel is set in a feudal land dominated by the winter season. With sound world-building which toes the line between reality and folklore, we follow a young girl as she grows up amid whispers of magic. When a new priest comes to the kingdom and the people turn away from the old spirits she is the only one left who believes, which means she is the only defense left. Excellent winter reading.

An enjoyable adventure set in an alternative, or several alternative Londons. The world building in this novel really focuses on magic and how people interact with magic in the various Londons. It's fast paced and interesting, with well formed likeable characters. The only downside is that the book barely passes the Bechdahl test. Yes, there is a female main character, but her conversations with other women are minimal.

I found this book very tiresome. The plot is instersting enough at its core. I enjoyed how the author tied the basis for magic into old history and legends, but often it seemed as if the author was elaborately rewriting all of English history, particularly with the more extensive footnotes. It was too long, written in to slow a style, and the characters too unlikeable for my preference. Some may not mind these stylistic choices, but I did.