Some books have the ability to envelop you like a warm hug. “Thornhedge” is one of these. It has a unique blend of darkness, magic, humor, and deep melancholy, which makes it hard to put down. T. Kingfisher, whose real name is Ursula Vernon, is known for her retellings of fairy tales – and here you can understand why. She has previously interpreted Sleeping Beauty in the children’s book “Harriet the Invincible”, but “Thornhedge” is something completely different: a story that hits readers of all ages. Sleeping Beauty with a twist This is a new twist on the fairy tale about Sleeping Beauty, with a different main character and a reversed narrative. Instead of an evil fairy casting a curse on an infant, we meet the good-hearted and unsuccessful fairy Toadling. She is sent to the human world to give a blessing to a newborn child. But things go wrong, and Toadling is bound to guard a curse she never meant to cast. When a curious knight appears at the thick wall of brambles that hides an enchanted castle, Toadling is forced not only to protect what she once created, but also to confront the deep secrets she has hidden for centuries. In just 120 pages, Kingfisher manages to create complex and endearing characters. Many also break with traditional archetypal roles; they have titles that often contrast with their actual behavior – the king cares little for his country, the knight does not want to fight, and the princess is only beautiful on the outside. RECOGNIZED: T. Kingfisher, a pseudonym for Ursula Vernon, is an American author. She has written several fantasy and horror novels for adults, as well as having written a number of popular children’s books under her real name. She has won several prestigious awards, including the Hugo and Nebula awards, for her works such as “Nettle & Bone” and “What Moves the Dead”. Photo: Henry Söderlund A heartwarming monster The main character, Toadling, is vulnerable and human despite the fact that she looks like a toad. Toadling’s struggle with loneliness, self-loathing and the desire to be loved are universal emotions. She is down-to-earth, kind and caring – a character that is as magnificent as she is remarkable. “Thornhegde” challenges the idea of beauty, which is explored in a deeper way in the book. Kingfisher links it to power, strength and inner qualities, which she beautifully describes: Slowly but surely, the reader also learns to see past the exterior and become a little more like Toadling by thinking more like her. Surprisingly, her world turns out to be even more beautiful than ours. Something to wish for more of If I had anything to criticize about “Thornhedge”, it would be the end of the book. It feels a little too quick and easy. It could have been fleshed out a bit more, but it should have the advantage of being unpredictable. “Thornhedge” surprises, touches and leaves a mark – a small story that contains big emotions. Even with its short length, it provides a depth and charm that lingers, and it reminded me that beauty is often found where we least expect it. Like a good fairy, Kingfisher has made me believe in magic again. And for the first time I wish I were a toad. news reviewer Photo: Titan Books Title: “Thornhedge” Author: T. Kingfisher Year of publication: 2024 Publisher: Titan Books Ltd Language: English Number of pages: 126 ISBN: 9781803364346 Hi! I am a freelance writer and review books for news. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, but I read a lot of different things. Published 18.11.2024, at 11.21
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“Thornhedge” by T. Kingfisher – Reviews and recommendations
