On the one hand, I have to agree with reviewers who stumble over the idea that Marjan is 15, recently orphaned, and allowed to just get on with living on her own and owning/running her father's veterinary practice. Theoretically, her next door neighbor has stepped up as legal guardian and been allowed to do so. Theoretically, her entire extended family in Iran is totally ok with her just living on her own in the states. Theoretically, the staff at the practice is completely ok with her popping in and acting as an ad hoc vet tech and mysteriously disappearing and/or helping private clients when they show up asking for her... I mean, the levels of no this isn't even remotely realistic are very very high, and there doesn't even really seem like a good reason for making this a middle grade book or for determining that Marjan is 15 -- why couldn't she be older? It would make so much more sense. I also agree with the reviewers who want the title to be Once Was -- that would be so much more in keeping with the story.

On the other hand -- I couldn't put it down. I liked the characters, the interweaving of fantastical beasts, Marjan's powers. I loved the friendships (and maybe these are why she needs to be 15, but I don't really buy that argument) and the darker side of magic. The book perfectly captures the ambivalence to humanity and danger that is present in so many folktales. The story is complex and fascinating, including the jaded brokering and power plays that the adults are indulging in around her. I particularly loved Malloryn's version of witchcraft and how she is both adamant and generous about how she interacts with her intolerant family. And I appreciate the nuanced and difficult relationship Marjan has with her father. The whole package is highly original and a deeply satisfying read. ( )

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