This was not an easy book to read. It takes a lot of focus, but I have to admit, it was good. It was very good. It was compared to those who enjoy Night Circus. Well, I don't know about that- more of a folk tale. And once you get used to the names, or try to decipher the Russian (why are the glossaries in the back of the book? Shouldn't they be in the front? Just a suggestion to you publishers out there), it is pretty intriguing.
Vasya is a girl whose mother was determined to have her, despite the fact that Mom would not live from the birth. And so, Vasya is the last born in a family of 3 brothers. Her mother is determined to have a girl much like her own mother, who is rumored to have magical powers. And then we get to the fantasy/folklore of the book, and of course, a step mom that's not all that awesome. But what made it intriguing is the introduction of Christianity into the household. I truly don't think it should be regarded as theology, but interesting, all the same. As the girl becomes older, the story becomes more invested in the dual belief system between the priest and the traditional beliefs of the village.
So, ultimately, I don't think I explained the book correctly, but it was a great book, and knowing that Ms. Arden studied in Russia without knowing Russian, I think she deserves lots of kudos for her debut novel.