The Bear and the Nightingale

Winter is the perfect time to get lost in this novel inspired by Russian folklore!

The first in a trilogy, The Bear and the Nightingale is a coming of age fantasy novel set in medieval Russia. It features a strong female lead, an old winter god, and a fantasy horse companion.

Our main lead Vashya is one of the few people who can see the spirits and creatures that populate the folk tales that have shaped her worldview. But this world is changing. New traditions are starting to replace the old ones. Most people do not realize that this loss of the old ways has a deadly cost. With the help of old gods and magic, Vashya fights against intolerance and coming danger in her remote village.

I like that this book is character driven, with plenty of worldbuilding and a slow burning romantic side plot. Beware! No series since has captivated me as much as this one! For fans of the City of Brass series, and authors Naomi Novik and Hannah Whitten.