This atmospheric dark fantasy is rooted in fairytales and folklore.
Malka, the healer’s daughter, has seen how the forest’s curse has plagued her village. However, the Ozmini Church dismisses tales of monsters in the woods – caring solely about collecting tithes; the annual earnings its takes from the people.
But when a clergy girl wanders close to the woods and Malka’s mother is accused of her murder, Malka makes a bargain with the Ozmini priest. If she brings him the monster, then he will spare her mother from execution.
When Malka enters the woods she finds a disgraced golem who agrees to implicate herself, but only after Malka helps to free the imprisoned rabbi who created her.
But the deal isn’t easily kept as Malka must face protecting her people and the very creature she was taught to fear and for who she has growing feelings.
The Maiden and Her Monster has an interesting concept of sapphic retelling of Jewish-golem mythology, which I found interesting and entertaining to read. However, I found its pacing very slow and not as gripping in some parts of the novel.
If Malka’s perspective could have been first person point of view, instead of third, I believe I would have been more connected to the story. However, the writing is enthralling and the detail in the world is impressive.
I highly recommend this to readers who love The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, Rachel Gillig’s novels, and who generally enjoy folklore and Gothic fantasy.
Reviewed by Christina Theodoratos
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Maddie Martinez was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where her love of stories began with desert plumes and watermelon sunsets. She holds a BA in Political Science and International Affairs from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts and an MA in Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University in Washington, DC. The Maiden and Her Monster is her first novel.
Visit Maddie Martinez’ website here.
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