Tor Short Story: Red as Blood and White as Bone by Theodora Goss

 Red as Blood and White as Bone by Theodora Goss

4.5 stars

Tor Shorts are becoming very popular and they definitely deserve the merit. I find it absolutely stunning how these talented authors are able to conjure stories so intricately weaved in a small span of pages and paragraphs. I think that's why Tor is one of my favorite publishing houses in general, because they publish amazing quality work. Their short stories are just as spectacular as one of their larger fantasy novels.


Karen's Tor reviews have not lead me astray yet and there are a few that I'm hoping to read soon when I can find the time just because of her reviews. When she gave 5 stars to Red as Blood and White as Bone, I instantly knew that this was a story to make time for and I'm so pleased that I did.


This tale is a simple one. Klara is the lowliest of servant girls in the prince's home of Karhegy. She dreams of fairy tales and the beautiful princess and princes inside. As her dreams become reality she learns that not every story is painted in the simple princess and prince story line. Some stories are much darker and grittier than a young girl could dream.


Whimsical Writing Scale: 4.5

I just loved the flow of this one. The seamless transitions from childhood dreams, to a fairy tale becoming reality, and leading up to a historical account with fantastical elements weaved in seamlessly made this story rich and imaginative. I will say that it can seem a little predictable, but there is no concrete way of predicting life. While life can be unpredictable it can also show patterns of what may lay ahead. Both of these elements were present and I think that is what I liked so much about this tale.


This story is written beautifully and the overall progression is definitely worth taking fifteen minutes of your day to read. I'm so glad to have taken the time to read this story because I was not disappointed! I can't even imagine how amazing this would've been as a full-length novel.


Kick-Butt Heroine Scale: 4.25

Plotastic Scale: 5

Cover Thoughts: I love the illustrations for Tor Shorts. They are always beautifully done. I want a collection of these covers and stories in an omnibus so badly!

This story is available for free reading here!

Did you read this awesome Tor Short for free? If not, I highly suggest it! Let me know down below in the comments if you loved it!