Bronze Age comes alive

Thought provoking coming-of-age (in a different way) tale set in the Bronze Age exploring relationships, abuse, perceived disabilities, traditions, moving beyond the group’s beliefs and mores, and change. Orr’s prose evoked the senses, whether it be the pottery works and processes, the honouring of slaves, the grief Clio experiences at her grandmother’s death, Clio and Mika’s race to the temple, the threat of the raiders—all so real. That reality captured me. I loved the ideas behind the story although I must admit that at first I found it hard to really identify with Clio. Clio was injured when her pony, her soul mate, Gray Girl, shied at a snake, unseating Clio. Clio was left with a permanent injury to her leg necessitating the use of a crutch to walk. Her horse riding days are over. Mika is from a fishing village nearby. When she shows an affinity with horses she and Clio begin a friendship that will startle all.

A Pajama Press ARC via NetGalley ( )