A truly amazing work of speculative fiction. Beautifully written and expertly told, Valente does a unique retelling of a fairytale. In a market packed full of retellings this is by far the best adult version I've read. Not only is her story unique it also follows traditional folklore and mythology in a way that at times is obvious and at others more subtle. Valente is a master craftsman and this is the fruit of her glorious labor. I'm seriously head over feet for this book!