Bone Weaver by Aden Polydoros is an engaging power struggle story that involves a rather unusual found family. Having lost her family while a young child, Toma is the most sympathetic of the characters. Somehow, despite being abandoned quite literally in the middle of nowhere by her mother after losing her father in an accident, she is not just kind and knowledgeable about hunting and foraging but also street savvy despite having not seen another human being for years. Then there is Vanya, a natural rogue who can’t help charm everyone he meets, which Mr. Polydoros ensures includes the reader. As they rush to rescue Toma’s sister and Mikhail’s throne, it becomes not just a race against time but also an exercise in sociology as our hapless group learns a little more about each other and the society they live.

What makes Bone Weaver different from other stories is Mr. Polydoros’ inclusion of magic, but not just any magic. Toma’s foster parents happen to be among the benevolent undead, a.k.a. zombies who retain enough of their previous consciousness to be able to overcome their desire for human flesh. In the ultimate definition of unusual relationships, these zombies provide a nurturing environment for Toma and much-needed affection and companionship during her formative years. Then there are the bogatyr, those unique humans born with the ability to manipulate nature. This is magic that does not involve spells, rituals, or herbs. No one knows why some people have these abilities, just as no one knows why someone raises from the dead. Not everyone has these abilities, and it becomes a have versus a have-nots scenario. Adding this aspect to the political intrigues and ongoing civil war makes for a complicated but fast-paced story that is easy and enjoyable to read. ( )

Emotionally rewarding story. Vanya, Mikhail, Toma and Galina are all appealing characters, and Toma's effort, with help from the boys to rescue her sister makes for fascinating reading. A story where good triumphs over evil, not once, but several times despite cruelty and adversity. The ending is perfect, leaving readers to create their own 'what's next.' ( )

3.5 stars

This book was hard to rate. The story was interesting, I liked that it touches on Slavic myths and folklore. I loved Toma, she is caring, adventurous, and brave and her relationship with her found family is great. The story at times was moving a little to slow for me and I found myself skimming paragraphs. The ending of the book left me confused, is this going to be a series or duology? or are we leaving these characters and the country where they are?

If there is a second book I would read it to find out what happens. ( )