
Nettle & Bone
Marra embarks on a quest to rescue her sister from an abusive marriage, enlisting the help of a bone dog and a cursed knight in a dark fairy tale setting.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
In the dark and twisted fairy tale world of "Nettle & Bone," Marra, the youngest of three princesses, is sent to a convent after her sisters are married off to Prince Vorling of the Northern Kingdom. When her sister Kania dies under suspicious circumstances, Marra learns of the abuse Kania suffered at the hands of Vorling. Determined to rescue her remaining sister, Marra embarks on a perilous quest, seeking the aid of a dust-wife who sets her three seemingly impossible tasks: weave a cloak from nettles, craft a dog from bones, and capture moonlight in a jar.
Along her journey, Marra is joined by a demon-possessed chicken, a cursed knight named Fenris, and her fairy godmother, Agnes, who specializes in curses rather than blessings. Together, they confront the dark forces of the fae courts and navigate treacherous magical realms, all while Marra's growing feelings for Fenris complicate their mission. The story is a slow-burn, suspenseful tale that subverts traditional fairy tale tropes, blending dark themes with moments of humor and unexpected tenderness.
What Readers Say
Readers praise T. Kingfisher's masterful blend of dark fantasy and humor in 'Nettle & Bone'. Many commend the well-developed, endearing ensemble cast that enriches the narrative. Fans note the novel's emotional depth and its exploration of complex themes with sensitivity. Some readers caution about the book's handling of dark themes, including abuse and miscarriage. Ideal for fans of dark fairy tales seeking a fresh, engaging twist on classic tropes.
Rating Distribution
Based on 10 Open Library ratings


