Review: Nettle & Bone" by T. Kingfisher, 2022

Nettle & Bone by T. Kingfisher
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Review of "Nettle & Bone" by T. Kingfisher

T. Kingfisher's "Nettle & Bone" embarks on a magical journey filled with fantastical characters and dark fairy-tale elements. Having been enthralled by Kingfisher's previous title, "What Moves the Dead," my expectations were high, making my experience with this book a mixed bag.

The narrative's initial jumpstart was indeed a bit choppy, an observation similarly noted in other reviews.
The decision to begin mid-adventure and then revert to the origins of Marra's quest was a bit disorienting. Nonetheless, as the story transitioned past the time jump, the plot became more navigable.

Diving into a world where the protagonist has to tackle three
monumental tasks (the exact details of which, unfortunately, didn't leave a lasting impression on me), the pacing maintained a consistent, albeit slow rhythm. This even tempo, while providing room to explore the quirks and peculiarities of the characters, might have contributed to my waning interest as the plot advanced.

Yet, the novel does have its bright spots. Kingfisher's signature touch is evident in the creation of memorable characters. The animated dog and demon chicken, in particular, were delightful additions to the tale. If ever brought to life in illustrations or animation, they'd undoubtedly be the stars! Moreover, the dialogues sprinkled with gentle sarcasm and humor provided intermittent comic relief, making them the highlights of my reading journey.

Despite my affection for certain characters, I can't say the same for the overarching storyline. The plot, while brimming with potential, seemed to meander just a bit too much for my liking. However, fans of slow-burn fantasies and dark fairy tales might appreciate the world that Kingfisher has crafted.

In conclusion, while "Nettle & Bone" boasts intricate world-building and endearing characters, it didn't quite capture the enchantment I was seeking. A 2.25 out of 5 rating encapsulates my sentiments. For those who gravitate towards darker, whimsical fairy tales with a twist, this might just be your next read. But for others like me, who were hoping for a narrative as gripping as "What Moves the Dead," this book might fall a tad short.

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