Bitterthorn

TikTok made me buy it! A sapphic Gothic fantasy for fans of Samantha Shannon
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( 6,218 ratings, 1,294 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Bitterthorn by Kat Dunn is an evocative young adult novel that weaves a tale of love, curses, and self-discovery. Set in a land overshadowed by a mysterious enchantment, the story follows a young protagonist who must confront their fears and the spectres of the past to find truth and freedom. This atmospheric narrative explores themes of courage and the power of understanding one's identity, compelling readers to journey alongside the characters in their pursuit of hope and redemption.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$2299
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are drawn to dark fairy tales with a gothic twist and complex characters. The story is set in a world of magic and mystery, featuring a determined young protagonist who navigates a web of intrigue and romance. Perfect for readers who appreciate enchanting atmospheres and a touch of the supernatural in their coming-of-age stories.

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Bitterthorn

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Nominated for the Carnegie Medal for Writing
Shortlisted for the Nero Book Award
Longlisted for the Polari Prize

A darkly seductive sapphic Gothic romance inspired by classic fairytales like Beauty and the Beast.

‘Kat Dunn has spun a love story both intimate and epic’ — SAMANTHA SHANNON, author of The Priory of the Orange Tree
'A deliciously dark fairy tale full of the agony and ecstasy of longing and desire' — KATHERINE WEBBER, author of Twin Crowns

Blumwald is a town overshadowed by an ancient curse: in a sinister castle in the depths of the wild wood lives a monstrous Witch. Once a generation, she comes to claim a companion to return with her — never to be seen again. Now that time is drawing near once more...

Mina, daughter of the duke, is grieving and lonely. She has lost all hope of any future for herself in Blumwald. So when the Witch demands her next companion, Mina offers herself up — though she has no idea what fate awaits her. Stranded with her darkly alluring captor, the mystery of what happened to the previous companions draws Mina into the heart of a terrifying secret that could save her life, or end it.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Bitterthorn by Kat Dunn is celebrated for its gothic and atmospheric style, blending elements of fairy tales with themes of curses, belonging, and betrayal. The story is described as a haunting and intimate love story that resonates like a fireside tale, filled with suspense and emotional depth. Reviewers praise its blend of classic and novel themes, with its exploration of loneliness, resilience, and the power of love crafted in achingly atmospheric prose. Fans of gothic romance and slow-burn love stories are likely to find it an exquisite and unforgettable read.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781839132957

Publisher: Andersen Press Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 May 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Andersen Press Ltd

Audience: Teenage

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 293g

Pages: 368

About the Author

Kat Dunn grew up in London and has lived in Japan, Australia and France. She has a BA in Japanese from SOAS and an MA in English from Warwick. She’s written about mental health for Mind and the Guardian, and worked as a translator for Japanese television.

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