The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid

Overall Rating: 9/10

Inspired by Hungarian history and myth, this novel follows Évike, the only woman in her secluded pagan village that hasn't been blessed with magic. When the nearby ruler calls for a sacrifice, her village jumps at the opportunity to rid themselves of such an outcast. Évike is taken by the Woodsmen - a religious army acting for the king - but when things go sideways, she and one Woodsman - an outcast prince - form an unlikely alliance. Along the way, Évike finds out more about her sorted heritage, and she might not be as powerless as she always thought.

Évike is a really strong, well-written character. I find that Reid really made her into a 3-dimensional character and her characterization drives the story along in a truly captivating way. The novel touches a lot on the treatment of Jewish people (called Yehuli in the book) in the past and it can also be related to more modern views on them. It was at times angering how they were treated in the book, but I knew it was on purpose as their history is full of strife. I really like how this novel paid attention to that. One thing I would change is the ending - it's not really what I was hoping for.

Anyone into Eastern European history or myths would probably enjoy this book. Also, anyone that likes Sara J. Maas books.

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Reviewed by Ms. Folkins.