The Bear and the Nightingale

by Katherine Arden
The Bear and the Nightingale cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Fantasy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 1317
  • Added: 2025-10-04
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • ISBN: 9781785031045
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2017-01-12
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 4

In a remote village on the edge of the wilderness, an elderly servant shares tales of sorcery and the Winter King, stories that captivate the young Vasya more than anyone else. Unlike the others, Vasya can see the house spirits that guard her home and sense the growing darkness in the woods. As she navigates the boundaries between the seen and unseen worlds, she must confront the forces of evil that lurk beyond the village boundaries. /n/nThe Bear and the Nightingale is a beautifully atmospheric and enchanting tale that blends folklore and magic, perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Erin Morgenstern. With its richly detailed setting and compelling characters, this novel offers an engrossing adventure that will captivate readers from start to finish.

Reviews
Books Are My Third Place · 2023-02-17
dark 4.50

The book is a dark and captivating tale that delves into folklore and myth. It is not a typical happy fairytale but rather a rich, immersive experience.

This reviewer highlights the dark and immersive nature of the book. They appreciate the deep dive into folklore and myth, which makes the story unique and compelling. The reviewer notes that it is not a lighthearted fairytale but rather a rich and atmospheric tale that stays with the reader. The dark elements and the exploration of folklore are particularly praised.

Quick quotes

    This is not a happy fairytale.

    It's dark folklore at its finest.

    There are vampires, and creatures who lead weary travelers astray...

Novel Notions · 2022-01-21
enjoyable 4.00

The book is an atmospheric and enjoyable debut with a likable main character. It is compared favorably to other works in the genre.

This reviewer enjoyed the atmospheric and engaging nature of the book. They found the main character particularly likable and appreciated the unique setting and storytelling. The book is seen as a strong debut that holds its own among other works in the genre. They also note that it has a similar appeal to other popular books, which adds to its charm.

Quick quotes

    I enjoyed reading this debut.

    The Bear and the Nightingale is an atmospheric read with a likable main character.

    Similar to Spinning Silver by...

Nicholas Kotar's Blog · 2018-05-02
recommended 3.50

The book is recommended for fans of historical fantasy and unique fairy tale retellings, though it has some flaws. The reviewer enjoys the unique take on traditional stories.

This reviewer recommends the book to those who enjoy historical fantasy and unique interpretations of traditional fairy tales. They appreciate the fresh perspective and the way the author brings new life to old stories. However, they also note that the book has some negative aspects that prevent it from being perfect. The reviewer finds the historical setting and the blending of folklore to be particularly strong points, but acknowledges that there are areas where the story could have been improved. Overall, they feel the book is a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.

Quick quotes

    I recommend it to anyone who likes historical fantasy or unique takes on traditional fairy tales.

    There were some negatives, as well.

    The historical setting and the blending of folklore are particularly strong points.

NPR · 2017-01-22
beautiful 4.50

The book beautifully blends folklore and historical setting, creating a rich and engaging narrative. The reviewer finds the evocation of feudal Russia particularly impressive.

This review emphasizes the skillful weaving of folklore and historical elements, creating a vivid and immersive world. The reviewer is particularly impressed by the author's ability to bring feudal Russia to life, making the setting as compelling as the characters. They appreciate the unique take on traditional fairy tales and the way the story feels both timeless and grounded in a specific historical context. The reviewer also notes that the book's atmospheric quality makes it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    Arden's weaving of folklore and fairy tale with a very solid evocation of feudal Russia is beautiful and deft.

    As Nicola Griffith does in Hild, Arden creates a world that feels both familiar and fresh.

    The book's atmospheric quality makes it a standout in the genre.

Appears in Lists