I should have read this book in the winter; the imagery of bone-chilling cold and starving frost is really well done. it’s set in medieval Russia, with familiar characters from Russian fairy tales. There’s just enough of familiar politics and religion to set the scene, all of the characters are beautifully put together, and the pacing of the story is excellent. Also, I liked how heroine Vasilisa’s efforts to save her village were complicated not only by evil spirits, but also by traditional gender roles and family dynamics. Gorgeous writing, wonderful story.