61 pages 2-hour read

The Girl in the Tower

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

Katherine Arden

The Girl in the Tower

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction
Setting

Medieval Russia

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Love

Revenge
Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden follows the journey of a young woman named Vasya in medieval Russia, who defies societal norms and battles supernatural forces to protect her family and village. It is the second book in the Winternight Trilogy, blending elements of Russian folklore and mythology.

Mysterious

Fantastical

Dark

Adventurous

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden is praised for its captivating storytelling and richly detailed world-building, continuing the enchantment of its predecessor. Critics highlight its strong, well-developed characters and the seamless blend of historical fiction with folklore. However, some note that the plot pacing can be uneven. Overall, it's a magical and immersive read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Girl in the Tower?

Fans of richly-woven, fairytale-infused historical fiction will be captivated by The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden. Readers who enjoy the atmospheric settings and magic of Naomi Novik's Uprooted or the enchanting mythological elements in Neil Gaiman's Stardust will find this novel equally enthralling.

Character List

The protagonist of the novel, Vasya is a spirited young woman who defies the conventional roles available to her by disguising herself and adopting a male persona to gain freedom and agency in medieval Russia. Her unique connection to the magical elements of her world positions her as a bridge between the old pagan traditions and a changing society.

A frost-demon and ancient figure from Russian folklore, Morozko serves as both a mentor and a complex romantic interest for Vasya. His character is marked by his struggle between maintaining his supernatural identity while grappling with newfound emotions.

The novel's main antagonist, Kasyan is a conniving sorcerer who seeks political power in Moscow and harbors a deep connection to Vasya’s family. He adeptly manipulates those around him while concealing his true, malevolent identity.

Vasya's older brother and a respected warrior-monk, Sasha is a figure of authority and moral integrity who is forced to navigate the complex political and familial challenges posed by Vasya's unconventional actions. His relationship with Vasya tests his loyalties and faith.

The Grand Prince of Moscow, Dmitrii is a young, charismatic leader eager to expand his power and influence but cautious of external threats. His interactions with Vasya and her siblings highlight his struggle with the expectations of masculinity and leadership.

Vasya’s older sister, Olga is a highborn lady who has embraced her traditional role within the confines of the terem, utilizing her position to navigate court politics. Her relationship with Vasya showcases the tension between familial love and societal expectations.

A zealous priest with a captivating presence, Konstantin harbors a deep animosity towards Vasya and becomes an unwitting tool in Kasyan's schemes. His fanatic devotion to the Christian faith leads him to view the old pagan practices as abhorrent.

Olga’s young daughter who shares Vasya’s ability to see the magical spirits, Marya represents the next generation of her family’s mystical lineage. As a child with strong potential, she is both a symbol of hope and vulnerability.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Historical Fiction
Setting

Medieval Russia

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Love

Revenge
Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

15-18 years

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