Title: Odd & True
Author: Cat Winters
Publisher: Amulet Books
Rating: ★★★★☆
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Disclaimer: I received a copy free from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Trudchen grew up hearing stories, from her older sister Odette, about her monster-slayer mother and a curse that was placed upon the family. Tru is older now, and Odette has been absent for a year, seemingly sent away by her aunt. Tru doesn’t know whether she should believe in the stories her sister told her, unsure whether they were just lies used to comfort her. Until one day, Od reappears with an old suitcase that supposedly has a magical weapon in. She promises to battle the monsters on the way to attack Tru. The sisters’ start search for their mother which leads them to a face-off with the Leeds Devil. Tru then starts to believe that perhaps monsters do exist, and she might, in fact, have magic.
I’ve read most of Cat Winter’s books, and I am a huge fan. Her books are magical, haunting, and atmospheric. So, I had high expectations for Odd & True and it did not disappoint. What I usually love about Cat Winters books is the subtlety of the paranormal aspect, and Odd & True was no different, yet had a little twist to it.
The synopsis is a little misleading as this isn’t necessarily a book about hunting monsters. At the centre of Odd & True is a story of family, sisterhood, and secrets, which made this a charming and captivating read. This book was very character driven compared to the rest of Cat Winters’ books but I loved it nonetheless. Od was a very fierce and likeable character. She was, at heart, a storyteller but also a protector and I loved her fiercely. Tru was just as fierce but she was full of skepticism. I loved their relationship and how it developed throughout the book.
Tru was also disabled, she has to wear and brace and/or use crutches due to having polio as a child, but I can’t speak for the representation. Odd & True was written in alternative POVs. Odette’s chapters were set in the past, and Tru’s were set in the present, which was seamlessly done and I loved how the mystery of Odette’s past was slowly revealed into the present day plot.
Overall, Odd & True was an immersive, magical, and atmospheric read with fierce sisters at the centre of the story.
Advertisements Follow us:Megan (pronounced MEE-GAN bc her Irish grandfather refused to use the English pronunciation) is a 21 year old british blogger, history graduate, lover of books and expert procrastinator. She is anxious and introverted and is currently attempting adulthood. She loves potatoes which is often blamed on her irish heritage and can often eat her weight in food. She predominantly reads and reviews YA which includes historical fiction, science fiction, contemporary, and f/f romance. She loves reading about unlikeable female characters, positive female friendships & relationships, and is a sucker for a pretty cover.
