Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Cheryl

I was not sure what to expect from this book. I am a huge fan of well-written fantasy, but I'm always a little hesitant to try this genre simply because there is so many poorly-written examples of fantasy out there. However, because I am also a sucker for fractured fairy tales, I thought I'd give this book a try. I was immediately hooked!

The story is well developed and characterized. It follows a poor orphan's self-discovery. Nick (the orphan) finds himself facing many choices that determine the type of person he is. He must choose between being the thief so many people tell him he is or the hero he is given the opportunity to become. I felt myself really wanting Nick to choose to be a better person.

I really liked this book because of the strong images painted by the author. I also enjoyed the themes of choice,forgiveness,and kindness presented in the book. However, because of the vivid imagery used to describe the spider scenes and a few other tense events, I would recommend this book for anyone 10 or older.