Characters: 9/10

The characters in Thornhedge are memorable and easy to visualize. Toadling, the protagonist, is unique and richly developed, with a personality that is both relatable and distinct. I found the secondary characters distinguishable, and they contributed meaningfully to the narrative. The dynamic between the characters felt genuine and engaging, and even though I would have liked a bit more depth for some of the secondary cast, the overall characterization was strong.

Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10

The setting is vivid and immersive, blending the magical with the mundane in a way that feels enchanting. I could easily picture the hedge, its dangers, and the world Toadling inhabits, all of which created a compelling atmosphere. The descriptions are atmospheric and transportive, and while I wanted a touch more sensory detail in some places, the overall experience was rich and captivating.

Writing Style: 10/10

T. Kingfisher's prose is both accessible and beautiful, with a whimsical, fairy-tale quality that feels fresh and unique. I loved the balance between dialogue and narration, and the flow of the writing made it hard to put the book down. The humor and heart in the writing stood out to me as some of the book's best features. I found the style to be flawless and captivating.

Plot: 9/10

The plot is a clever twist on familiar fairy-tale tropes, with surprising turns that kept it fresh and engaging. I felt the pacing was solid, and the reveals were satisfying. The story is concise, avoiding unnecessary fluff while still delivering a complete narrative. While I would have enjoyed a longer exploration of the world and its intricacies, the plot’s tight focus felt appropriate for the story being told.

Intrigue: 9/10

The story held my attention and steadily built tension and curiosity about Toadling's backstory and the secrets of the hedge. I felt compelled to keep turning pages to find out what would happen next. While there were a few quieter moments, they served as necessary breathers rather than detracting from the overall intrigue. The balance between action and introspection worked well for me.

Logic/Relationships: 9/10

The characters’ actions and relationships felt believable and aligned with their motivations. The world-building was subtle but effective, and I found the magic system to be consistent and grounded within the fairy-tale logic of the story. While some aspects of the world and its rules could have been explored more deeply, I found the relationships and motives clear and compelling. Everything fit together in a way that felt cohesive and satisfying.

Enjoyment: 9/10

I thoroughly enjoyed Thornhedge. The blend of whimsy and darkness was beautifully balanced, and the humor, emotion, and magic made it a delight to read. While I wanted more time with some themes and characters, the story was consistently engaging and satisfying. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish.