These Feathered Flames

Based on the Russian folktale “The Firebird,” Overy’s debut traces the intertwined paths of 17-year-old twins Asya and Izaveta, princesses of the realm of Tóurin. Chosen as heir by the gods, pale-haired Izaveta has learned queenly duties at court for the past seven years, becoming versed in statecraft under their remote mother. Meanwhile, crimson-haired Asya was taken at age 10 to train with their great-aunt Tarya, the queendom’s Firebird. Able to transform into a monstrous, flaming bird, Tarya’s duty—and Asya’s future role—is to exact the terrible price of performing magic from its practitioners. But when burning pain strikes one night, Asya learns there can only be one reason: the queen is dead, and a new Firebird has risen. Now, Asya needs to return to the palace to reunite with her estranged sister. Together, the twins must uncover the palace’s secrets—including who killed their mother. Though the prose feels slightly stilted at times, this lavish fantasy world is complemented by intricately plotted court intrigues and a range of well-drawn relationships, including a powerful sisterly bond between the morally complex heroines and a delicate queer romance. Ages 13–up. [em](Apr.) [/em]