Once upon a time, in a small village nestled deep within a thick forest, there lived a witch. She was a mysterious and solitary figure who was feared by the villagers. With long, tangled hair that matched the color of midnight, and a crooked nose that bore the remnants of countless spells and potions, she was the epitome of every witch that fueled the childhood nightmares of the townsfolk. However, despite her appearance, the witch had a heart that yearned for companionship. She longed to be accepted and loved, just like anyone else. Unfortunately, her reputation preceded her, and she was shunned by the villagers, who believed she would bring nothing but misfortune and darkness to their lives.
“A fierce, historically rich reimagining of the story of Baba Yaga…full of complicated, three-dimensional women.”
—Paste Magazine
This fierce and compelling novel draws from the timeless lore to create a heroine for the modern day, fighting to save her country and those she loves from oppression while also finding her true purpose as a goddess, a witch, and a woman. Olesya Salnikova Gilmore weaves a rich tapestry of mythology and Russian history, reclaiming and reinventing the infamous Baba Yaga, and bringing to life a vibrant and tumultuous Russia, where old gods and new tyrants vie for power.
Unfortunately, her reputation preceded her, and she was shunned by the villagers, who believed she would bring nothing but misfortune and darkness to their lives. One day, as the witch sat in her humble cottage, stirring a cauldron filled with bubbling concoctions, she heard a soft, melancholic voice echoing from outside her window. Curiosity piqued, she cautiously peered outside to find a small girl, no older than eight, sitting by a nearby brook with tears streaming down her face.
The Witch and the Tsar
In this stunning debut novel, the maligned and immortal witch of legend known as Baba Yaga will risk all to save her country and her people from Tsar Ivan the Terrible—and the dangerous gods who seek to drive the twisted hearts of men.
Now in Paperback
Available in UK
from Harper Voyager
US Hardcover Version
About the Book
- Named in Library Journal‘s List of Best SF/Fantasy of 2022
- Nominated for The Fantasy Hive‘s Year-End Awards for 2022 in the Debut of the Year, Standout Standalone, Hidden Gem, and Best Fantasy Creature
As a half goddess possessing magic, Yaga is used to living on her own, her prior entanglements with mortals having led to heartbreak. She mostly keeps to her hut in the woods, where those in need of healing seek her out, even as they spread rumors about her supposed cruelty and wicked spells. But when her old friend Anastasia—now the wife of the tsar, and suffering from a mysterious illness—arrives in her forest desperate for her protection, Yaga realizes the fate of all of Russia is tied to Anastasia’s. Yaga must step out of the shadows to protect the land she loves.
As she travels to Moscow, Yaga witnesses a sixteenth-century Russia on the brink of chaos. Tsar Ivan—soon to become Ivan the Terrible—grows more volatile and tyrannical by the day, and Yaga believes the tsaritsa is being poisoned by an unknown enemy. But what Yaga cannot know is that Ivan is being manipulated by powers far older and more fearsome than anyone can imagine.
Olesya Salnikova Gilmore weaves a rich tapestry of mythology and Russian history, reclaiming and reinventing the infamous Baba Yaga, and brings to life a vibrant and tumultuous Russia, where old gods and new tyrants vie for power. This fierce and compelling novel draws from timeless lore to create a heroine for the modern day, fighting to save her country and those she loves while also finding her true purpose as a goddess, a witch, and a woman.
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Praise
“Gilmore impresses with this feminist retelling of the Baba Yaga folktale set in 16th-century Russia…Gilmore’s immersive prose steeps readers in this wonderfully epic folktale full of magic and myth.”
—Library Journal (Starred Review)
“A rich and well-woven story centered on subverted folklore played out against the backdrop of historical events. The Witch and the Tsar is not to be missed.”
—Booklist
“Gilmore’s enchanting debut adds to the growing genre of mythological retellings that reframe the acts of supposedly villainous women…this epic tale brings both history and folklore to vivid life. It’s a fresh, exciting take sure to capture fans of Madeline Miller’s Circe and Jennifer Saint’s Ariadne.”
—Publishers Weekly
“A fierce, historically rich reimagining of the story of Baba Yaga…full of complicated, three-dimensional women.”
—Paste Magazine
“A fantastically spun tale like nothing you’ve ever read before.”
—Buzzfeed
“The novel is about as ideal a crossover between the genres that it’s possible to achieve, with vivid details on colorful period clothing, palace décor, and the brooding taiga as well as otherworldly rituals and capricious divine beings. Though packed with bursts of action, the story is quite thoughtful and paced accordingly.”
—Historical Novel Society
“No longer the ugly hag, Gilmore reimagined Yaga as a powerful feminist heroine and a symbol against tyranny and corruption. As a historical fiction, Gilmore gives an in-depth look in to the reign of Tsar Ivan IV. Her book is a beautiful combination of pre-Christian mythology and historical figures from mid-1500s Russia. Readers looking to discover a new Baba Yaga will enjoy The Witch and the Tsar.”
—Manhattan Book Review (5-star review)
“The Witch and the Tsar does for Baba Yaga what Gregory Maguire’s ‘Wicked’ did for the Wicked Witch of the West, telling of how an immortal half-divine healer, read with earnest verve by Katia Kapustin, is demonized into her familiar ghastly shape through the rising intolerance of the Christian church in 16th-century Russia.”
—The Seattle Times
“This beautiful retelling of a Slavic fairy tale will give you food for thought as myth and history delicate weave around each other.”
—Belfast Telegraph
“Weaves a magical spell.”
—Heat Magazine
“This is a feminist retelling of Yaga, deconstructing the conventional stories around the figure and exposing the ostracised wise woman behind them. Gilmore sets out to do for Baba Yaga what Miller did for Circe, Saint for Ariadne, North for Penelope…and achieves it beautifully…[A] rich and heady blend of historical fiction and mythological retelling.”
—The Fantasy Hive
“Brisk as the winter wind, Katia Kapustin manifests the witch Yaga with a surprisingly youthful timbre, as befits this reinterpretation of the famed Slavic folklore villain Baba Yaga. Here Yaga is a young heroine who is half goddess, rather than a deformed, ferocious old woman. Kapustin’s precise enunciation of tricky Russian names and places draws the listener into the harsh and alluring landscape of sixteenth-century Moscow…At the end of the story, author Olesya Salnikova Gilmore narrates a discussion of her motivations for this feminist refashioning…[which is an] enriching setting of the stage.”
—AudioFile Magazine
“The Witch and the Tsar is Olesya Salnikova Gilmore’s intriguing debut. It is a well-written and compelling story, focused on atmosphere. And that makes The Witch and the Tsar a perfect read for this time of year.”
—Grimdark Magazine
“This was an engaging, violent, and emotional story that kept me engaged. Those that enjoy reimagined folk tales and mythology may want to consider this book as their next read.”
—Mystery & Suspense Magazine
“A rich and vivid tapestry of old Russia in an age when Tsar Ivan the Terrible grappled not only with political foes but with the legendary witch Baba Yaga and her command of magic and pagan gods. An evocative journey into old Russian myth and history, and a poignant exploration of what it means to be both human and immortal.”
—Margaret George, New York Times bestselling author of The Splendor Before the Dark
“A delicate weaving of myth and history, The Witch and the Tsar breathes new life into stories you think you know.”
—Hannah Whitten, New York Times bestselling author of For the Wolf
“The Witch and the Tsar delivers high stakes, memorable characters, and a sixteenth-century Russia you can almost reach out and touch. Yaga’s tale is a story I never knew I needed.”
—Genevieve Gornichec, National bestselling author of The Witch’s Heart
“In The Witch and the Tsar, Baba Yaga is transformed by the magic of Olesya Salnikova Gilmore’s prose from a shadowy figure into a breathing woman with a beating heart… A powerful and moving debut.”
—Molly Greeley, Author of The Heiress
“A perfect blend of fantasy and historical fiction, The Witch and the Tsar magnificently paints an old Russia full of vengeful gods, court intrigue and high adventure. In the center of it all is the half-goddess Yaga, isolated and proud, whose compassion for humanity drives her into a war with Ivan the Terrible and the mythical beings who use him for their own ends. Immersive and beautifully written, Yaga’s story reminds us that gods—like humans—can choose their own fates.”
—Anika Scott, international bestselling author of The Soviet Sisters
“Weaves myth and history into a poignant tale of love and war and gods in the flesh, with impeccable imagery and a heroine whose strength and courage stayed with me long after the final page. Fans of The Witch’s Heart, Circe and The Bear and the Nightingale are sure to fall in love with Gilmore’s compelling debut.”
—H.M. Long, Author of Hall of Smoke
“Fierce and fearless, The Witch and the Tsar whisks the reader back to a 16th-century Russia that’s enthralling, frightening, and completely unforgettable. With stunning prose and sharp insight, Olesya Salnikova Gilmore conjures up a captivating battle between gods, emperors, and folkloric spirits, led by a prickly, powerful heroine who leaps off the page and refuses to be ignored. This is Baba Yaga like you’ve never seen her before, and you’re going to love her.”
—Allison Epstein, Author of A Tip for the Hangman
“Beautifully written, gripping…a story of Baba Yaga as you have never met her before—don’t even THINK about missing it!”
—Gabriella Saab, Author of The Last Checkmate
“An utterly enchanting, wholly immersive debut that deftly reimagines the legend of Baba Yaga. This one is unmissable.”
—Alexis Henderson, Author of The Year of the Witching
“Russia’s fascinating myths and violent history swirl like ingredients in a magic potion in The Witch and the Tsar, with enchanting results. A vivid, immersive dream of a story.”
—Sarah Porter, Author of Vassa in the Night
“Expertly drawing from Russian history and mythology, Olesya Salnikova Gilmore transforms Baba Yaga into a complex heroine, whose quest to save her country sparkles with folk magic and supernatural intrigue. A powerful, original story.”
—Mary McMyne, Author of The Book of Gothel
Excerpt
The Witch and the Tsar cover reveal and excerpt in Paste Magazine
Moved by the child's sadness, the witch stepped outside and approached her, her long dark robes swirling around her. "Why are you crying, my dear?" she asked gently, her voice laced with compassion. The girl looked up, her eyes filled with both fear and curiosity. "I'm lost," she replied, her voice barely a whisper. "I was playing with my friends in the forest, and now I can't find my way back home." The witch's heart ached for the young girl, who appeared so fragile and helpless. Without hesitation, she offered her assistance. "Fear not, little one. I know these woods like the back of my hand. Follow me, and I will lead you back to your home." Together, hand in hand, they ventured deep into the forest. The witch used her magical powers to guide them through the winding paths, even conjuring a mystical light to illuminate their way. As they walked, the girl couldn't help but notice the gentleness and kindness that radiated from the once-feared witch. Eventually, they reached the outskirts of the village, where the girl's worried parents were desperately searching for her. Tears of relief filled their eyes as they embraced their daughter, thanking the witch profusely for her help. From that moment on, the villagers' perception of the witch began to change. They saw her for the compassionate and helpful being she truly was, rather than a source of wickedness and evil. The young girl's parents especially were grateful, and they spread the word about the witch's good deeds, slowly dispelling the fear that had consumed the villagers for years. Over time, the witch became an integral part of the community, offering her wisdom and magic to those in need. She taught the villagers the importance of embracing differences and looking beyond appearances. The village thrived, and the once-haunted forest became a place of wonder and beauty. The tale of the witch and the lost girl spread far and wide, as a symbol of hope and the power of acceptance. The villagers came to realize that sometimes, the most extraordinary friendships can blossom from the most unexpected places. And so, the witch and the village lived happily ever after, forever changing the narrative of what it meant to be a witch..
Reviews for "The Witch and the Tase: Misconceptions and Misinterpretations"
1. John - 2/5 stars - I found "The Witch and the Tsae" to be quite disappointing. The plot was confusing and lacked coherence, making it difficult for me to follow what was happening. The characters were also poorly developed, and their motivations seemed shallow and unconvincing. Additionally, the pacing of the movie was incredibly slow, and I frequently found myself getting bored and disengaged. Overall, I felt let down by this film and would not recommend it to others.
2. Sarah - 1/5 stars - "The Witch and the Tsae" was a complete waste of my time. The storyline was convoluted and made no sense at all. The acting was amateurish, and the dialogue felt forced and unnatural. I found myself cringing during most of the scenes, as the performances were just not convincing. Furthermore, the cinematography was bland and unremarkable, offering nothing visually stimulating or captivating. I regret watching this film and would advise others to avoid it entirely.
3. David - 2/5 stars - I was highly disappointed with "The Witch and the Tsae." The movie had potential, but it failed to deliver on many levels. The plot was confusing and lacked depth, and the dialogue was often cheesy and cliché. The performances were mediocre, with the actors failing to bring any real emotion or connection to their characters. The pacing was also off, with slow and dull moments that made it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, this film fell flat for me, and I would not recommend it to others.
4. Emily - 2.5/5 stars - While "The Witch and the Tsae" had some interesting elements, I ultimately felt let down by the execution. The story had potential, but it was poorly developed and left crucial questions unanswered. The acting was decent, but the characters felt one-dimensional and lacked depth. Additionally, the pacing was inconsistent, with some scenes dragging on while others seemed rushed. Overall, I found this film to be average at best and forgettable. I wouldn't actively discourage others from watching it, but I wouldn't recommend it either.
5. Michael - 1.5/5 stars - "The Witch and the Tsae" was a mess of a movie. The plot was confusing and had too many unnecessary subplots that added nothing to the overall story. The acting was subpar, with wooden performances that failed to evoke any genuine emotion. The film also suffered from inconsistent tone, making it difficult to know whether it was supposed to be a serious drama or a comedic satire. The only redeeming aspect was the cinematography, which offered a few visually appealing shots. Unfortunately, that wasn't enough to salvage this poorly executed film.