T. Kingfisher’s A Sorceress Comes to Call is a masterful blend of cozy fantasy, gothic horror, and Regency-era charm. Drawing from the Brothers Grimm’s Goose Girl, Kingfisher reimagines this classic fairy tale with a dark twist, infusing it with elements of horror, magic, and the complexities of human relationships. The result is a novel that is both familiar and refreshingly unique, a story that captivates with its eerie atmosphere, witty dialogue, and richly drawn characters.
Plot Overview: A Battle of Wills and Magic
The story centers around Cordelia, a 14-year-old girl who lives under the oppressive control of her sorceress mother, Evangeline. Cordelia’s life is one of fear and manipulation, as her mother uses dark magic to control her every move, a power referred to as “obedience.” This control is not just metaphorical; it is literal, with Evangeline able to puppeteer Cordelia’s body and mind, forcing her to act against her will. The stakes are high when Evangeline uses these powers to commit a heinous crime, setting the stage for a battle that goes beyond mere family conflict.
Cordelia’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Hester, a middle-aged woman with a sharp mind and a sarcastic wit, who becomes her unlikely ally. Hester, dealing with her own past regrets and physical limitations, is the perfect foil to Cordelia’s youthful despair. Together, they must navigate a world where societal expectations and supernatural threats collide, ultimately facing off against Evangeline in a battle of both wits and magic.
Character Development: Depth and Complexity
Kingfisher excels in crafting characters that are multi-dimensional and relatable. Cordelia is a well-developed protagonist, embodying the fears and resilience of adolescence. Her relationship with Hester is particularly well-handled, providing both the emotional heart of the story and its moral compass. Hester, with her humor and pragmatism, offers a refreshing portrayal of an older female protagonist who is both vulnerable and formidable.
Evangeline, as the primary antagonist, is terrifying not only for her magical abilities but also for her emotional cruelty. Kingfisher paints a chilling portrait of a woman who is as much a victim of her own desires as she is a villain, adding layers of complexity to her character. The supporting cast, including Hester’s friends and the eerie familiar Falada, enriches the narrative, each bringing their own Stories and struggles into the mix.
Themes: Power, Autonomy, and Resistance
One of the central themes of A Sorceress Comes to Call is the struggle for autonomy, particularly in the context of gender and family dynamics. Cordelia’s battle against her mother’s control is symbolic of a larger fight for self-determination, a theme that resonates strongly in the current cultural climate. The novel also explores the consequences of power, both magical and social, and the ways in which it can corrupt and isolate.
Despite its dark themes, the novel is also infused with moments of levity and warmth. Kingfisher’s writing is laced with humor, particularly in the interactions between Hester and Cordelia, which provide much-needed relief from the tension. This balance between horror and humor is one of the novel’s greatest strengths, making it a deeply engaging read.
Writing Style: A Blend of the Cozy and the Horrific
Kingfisher’s prose is both elegant and accessible, blending the cozy familiarity of Regency Novels with the chilling atmosphere of gothic horror. The novel’s setting—a nameless, Regency-esque world—serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama, with its grand estates, hidden secrets, and ominous forests. Kingfisher’s descriptions are vivid and evocative, drawing readers into a world that feels both fantastical and grounded in reality.
Conclusion: A Must-Read for Fantasy Fans
A Sorceress Comes to Call is a triumph of genre-blending, offering a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Kingfisher’s ability to weave together elements of horror, fantasy, and humor results in a novel that is both unique and deeply satisfying. Whether you are a fan of fairy tale retellings, gothic horror, or simply well-crafted Stories, A Sorceress Comes to Call is a book that should not be missed.
Also Read: House of Glass: By Sarah Pekkanen (Book Review)
