I am not sure I can use the correct words to describe "The Bear and the Nightingale." I am a huge Russian history nerd, so the book and its premise immediately appealed to me. I was familiar with the endearments and other terminology in the book that might throw the casual reader for a loop, but this style of writing only added to my enjoyment. In short, the story was magical. The backstory of Marina and Dunya might seem like fluff, but it was a necessary component of the novel. Getting to watch Vasya as she grows and learns helped me become more attached to her character, and I appreciated the relationships she had with her family. It is not the typical family dynamic, however, there is no denying the love they have for each other.
Russian lore is fascinating to me, and I felt like Arden did the culture justice. I understood the priest's need to "redeem" the "heathens," but I also understood the villagers' deep longing to remain true to traditions by worshipping gods of hearth and home. I'll be honest, I had to look a few things up during my reading, and I encourage others to do so as well.
If I could change one thing about the story it would be that I wanted more Vasya and Morozko. I am hoping for a sequel!
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