Hmm, 3.5 stars for the Bear and the Nightingale. This was written like a more detailed folk tale. Like some parts have gone missing in time or memory. An incomplete story if you will. Looking at the blurb for the sequel I think that's on purpose. From the matter of fact way of life, to the various stories going on that only somewhat tie together but give a broad picture of life. But because if this it can drag in some parts and leave you wondering when we will get to the point. And then there's the ending. One can hope there will be more to the problems with the Bear in the sequels but who knows.

I don't know that Vasilia's being different has anything to do with anything other than being magical. The story makes it seem like she's some sort of historical tomboy or out of time suffragette. Especially when compared to every other female. But she isn't really. She doesn't fit in because she's literally not like them.

Anyway, the religious/spiritual aspects were very well done imo as a pagan. That's where the author excelled. There and in painting the picture of the setting. I felt cold the entire time while reading this. The people are all relatable somehow, even the Prince and the Metropolitan. Even Konstantine though you don't want to relate to him because his weaknesses are easily seen from the beginning. That's the type of man you don't want or shouldn't be a messenger of the Christian God and it comes across strongly.