Reviews

Over a thousand years ago magic left Russia, banished when Princess Olga rejects the old ways in favour of Constantine’s Christianity. Across the veil in the realm of Skazi, the magic has been waiting for the day when it can return. A golden bear, one of the last objects to cross the veil, is discovered in an old bathhouse. Its power calls to Rosa and the magic that has been passed down from her mother, enticing her with the promise of adventure. Curious of its origins she passes the bear to Daniel, her former boyfriend, and Em his co-worker. Before they can discover anything both are drawn across the veil. Rosa must now rediscover the old ways if she is ever to see them again. Stories that entwine the modern world in the ancient, dark and mythological are always a pleasure. There is something enticing about seeing the familiar trying to cope with untamed mysteries. The twists and turns as the story jumps between Skazi and our world are brilliantly handled, building up pace to the final startling conclusion. If you enjoy Neil Gaiman or Jonathan Carroll this is a book for you. Chris McDonough is the store buyer at Dymocks Brisbane C. 2005 Thorpe-Bowker and contributors