The Summer War by Naomi Novik

 


This was a fantastic novella and honestly probably one of the best short stories I have ever read. Even though it was short it had all the elements I love in a novel. You have a strong female character, action, suspense, a hint of romance, and magic.


The story is set in a fantasy world where there are mortals and Summer Land people. The Summer Land people reminded me of the fae. They have long lives, are extremely good looking, and you have to be careful about eating their food. The book starts out with Celia as a child. She is anxiously waiting for her oldest brother to come home but when he does it is only to tell their father off and then leave again. Celia is heartbroken that he doesn't think of her so she inadvertently curses him. She does not know that she is a sorceress yet. As Celia gets older she is determined to break the curse but her upcoming marriage to the prince may interrupt her plans.

The world building is superb. I absolutely loved the characters, especially Celia and Roric. I don't know how this author wrote such a great story in under 150 pages but she did. If you love fantasy, adventure, magic, and really great characters you will love this novella!

Thank you to Del Rey Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.

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