A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher

This early review copy was gifted to me by Tor Books through NetGalley. This is no way impacts the rating of the book. All of my reviews contain my honest opinions.

Title: A Sorceress Comes to Call

Author: T. Kingfisher

Release Date: August 6, 2024

Publisher: Tor Books

Genre: Fantasy, Horror

Source: digital, NetGalley

TW: murder, child abuse, animal death, death, blood, injury/injury detail, alcohol, adult/minor relationship, classism, manipulation

Synopsis

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.

Thoughts

What a spectacular book! This was my first experience reading T. Kingfisher, and I absolutely understand why their work is so beloved. This dark, twisted retelling of the Brothers Grimm's Goose Girl captivated me with its poetic prose and humor. At times, the tone reminded me of Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, which only added to my enjoyment.

The characters were a real highlight for me. I absolutely adored the sassiness of Hester, Imogene, and Penelope. Hester's determination to protect her brother and Cordelia added so much depth to the story. Her intelligence and quick wit made her a standout character, and I loved seeing her stand up against Cordelia's mother. Imogene and Penelope were delightful as well, adding humor and warmth to the narrative.

Cordelia herself was such a compelling character. Her journey from a girl trapped by her mother's control to someone who finds her voice and courage was beautifully done. Her sweetness and resilience were inspiring, and I found myself rooting for her every step of the way. The dynamic between Cordelia and the people around her, especially the bond she forms with Hester, added layers of emotional complexity to the story.

The romance between Hester and Lord Evermore was incredibly sweet and touching. Their connection felt genuine and heartfelt, providing a perfect counterbalance to the darker elements of the plot. The subtle, unending romance between them was a joy to read, and it was woven seamlessly into the narrative without overshadowing the main story.

Overall, this was such a dark, engaging tale filled with secrets, murder, and forbidden magic. T. Kingfisher has a unique way of blending humor and darkness, creating a story that is both chilling and heartwarming. I'm very excited to read more by T. Kingfisher!