A great fantasy novel. Younger (mature-ish) kids COULD read it, but that would be completely up to the parent. I certainly think that it fits into YA.
The plot in this book really is great, starting off very nicely and ending with flourish. Surprises round every corner and turn. It's a great book, one that I'll read over and over and over again. I recommend you read this, even if you don't usually like fiction.
Rosalind, the main character, is cursed with a talon as a finger. And that's not all Rosalind has to deal with. Read (NOW) to know more-- I'm (almost) 100% sure that you'll love it-- I sure have!