Kirsten Reviews: The Winter Long by Seanan McGuire

The Winter Long by Seanan McGuire

October Daye #8

Toby thought she understood her own past; she thought she knew the score.

She was wrong.

It's time to learn the truth.

The Winter Long by Seanan McGuire is the eighth book in her October Daye series, which means it is not definitely not the best place for a new reader to pick up the story. There’s a whole lot of history between the characters now, and the conflicts and world building have built up to this book, in which a number of truths are revealed. Going into specifics would spoil several important twists, so without delving too deeply, it’s suffice to say that this book shakes up Toby and many other characters.

To sum up: Toby thought that she understood her own past, but it turns out that she had no clue, and it’s time for the truth to be told.

As readers catch up, Toby and Tybalt are having some much-needed rest and relaxation. Sadly, these two should accept that making any plans to relax basically guarantees trouble will come knocking and drag them kicking and screaming back into the thick of things. In this case, Toby gets a visit from Simon Torquill, twin brother of Sylvester, and the fellow who turned Toby into a fish, to name but one of the deeds which has made him somewhat unpopular. Although he tries to tell Toby something important, he’s under a geas, and so can’t spill the beans. Toby and her friends decide that going to The Luidaeg is the best way to get answers, but she is only able to get a little bit of information before things get more complicated. All the elements which have made these books engaging reading are present, and the author tosses in a surprise or three to keep the plot moving at a brisk pace, and it all comes together impressively, considering this is bringing together so large a story.

The truth is out there in this book, and it is shaking up Toby’s life in a big way, as her past comes up more than once, and ties up a few plotlines, while weaving many more for further books in the series. This isn’t the end of Toby’s journey, but it is a great point to take a breath, look back, and then prepare for what’s coming next.
(Received a copy from the publisher)

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     My Bookish Ways
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     Bea's Book Nook

Previous Books:
     1. Rosemary and Rue
     2. A Local Habitation
     3. An Artificial Night
     4. Late Eclipses
     5. One Salt Sea
     6. Ashes of Honor
     7. Chimes at Midnight