Sometimes the thing you’re most excited about in January is still a book that you read last year. If you have come into Yankee Bookshop since last spring, at least one of our booksellers has probably told you about this one already. But maybe not. Because as much as I loved this book when I read it, and as much as I still think about it all the time, I do not believe I have talked about it enough. So here it is, your next favorite read: Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher.
This book has everything: fairy tale tropes (but completely reimagined), fantastic side characters (we’re all hoping for spinoffs), and a story that feels cozy and comfortable like a well-worn sweater—but is also completely new and will surprise you in so many ways. Plus, it's a quick read. Which is great for helping you feel accomplished when you finish it.
I have been a fan of T. Kingfisher for years, in one iteration or another. She also writes books for children under another name (Ursula Vernon), and has done epic graphic novels for all ages (Digger Unearthed was rereleased last year; look it up if you loved Bone and want more of those vibes). But in the last two years she has started releasing novellas for adults that range from gothic horror to fairy tale & dark fantasy, and every single book I have picked up from her has been a jewel. Nettle & Bone seems to be the most accessible to the widest range of people, and is a wholly original story, unlike the reimaginings she has also published, so this feels like a great place to introduce yourself to her work.
The story is familiar enough to anyone who loves fairy tales: a princess from a small country watches her older sister get married off to link their family with a larger, more powerful country. Spoiler alert: the king over there is kind of terrible. The princess tries to go off and live her own life, since her older sisters have done the important work of furthering their country’s influence, but starts to have second thoughts. Eventually, she decides that her sister needs saving and she’s the one to do it. Adventures ensue. Besides the fantastic main character there are nuns, a bone witch, fairy godmothers, a demonically possessed chicken, and a dog made of bones - and you will fall in love with every single one of them. This is the fairy tale I wish I had while growing up, and am so incredibly thankful to have it now.
Kingfisher has multiple books slated to come out in 2024, and our whole staff is excited for each of them. If you come by the bookstore, we’ll be sure to show you everything T. Kingfisher: She’s a true staff favorite for all of us.
Kari Meutsch and Kristian Preylowski co-own and run the Yankee Bookshop in Woodstock.