Odd and True

Odette and Trudchen Grey are sisters growing up in early 20th century Oregon, surrounded by their aunt's tales of monsters and magic. Od has always protected her younger sister Tru from both real and imagined dangers, spinning stories about their family's secret legacy as monster hunters. At age eighteen, Od disappears without explanation, leaving Tru to question everything she was taught to believe about their family history. Three years later, Od returns to whisk Tru away on a monster-hunting journey across America that will test their bond and reveal long-buried truths. This historical novel blends American folklore with a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of 1909 Pennsylvania. The narrative alternates between Od's past and Tru's present, gradually revealing the complex reality behind the sisters' supernatural education. The story explores how family myths shape identity and the ways truth and fiction intertwine in the stories we tell ourselves. Through its mix of history and dark fantasy, the novel examines the real monsters that lurk in human nature and the power of sisterhood to overcome them.

Readers found this historical fantasy delivers on atmosphere but falls short on pacing. Many noted the strong bond between the sisters and praised the 1909 Oregon setting. The monster-hunting elements and folklore integration received positive mentions. Likes: - Gothic tone and creepy ambiance - Historical details and period accuracy - Complex sister relationship - Dual timeline structure Dislikes: - Slow first half - Plot meanders at times - Some found the ending unsatisfying - Monster elements take too long to appear Several reviews mentioned struggling to stay engaged in the early chapters but finding more enjoyment in the second half. Multiple readers noted wanting more supernatural content throughout. Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (80+ ratings) BookBrowse: 4/5 "Beautiful writing but needed faster pacing" - Goodreads reviewer "Great concept that dragged in execution" - Amazon reviewer "Sisters' relationship carried the story" - LibraryThing review

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🌟 The author, Cat Winters, extensively researched cryptozoology and American folklore from the early 1900s to create the novel's authentic historical atmosphere. 🌟 The book's setting in 1909 Oregon coincides with a real period of increased monster sightings and supernatural reports across America, known as the "Monster Boom." 🌟 The story's focus on sisterhood was inspired by the author's close relationship with her own sister and their shared love of supernatural tales. 🌟 Many of the folk remedies and protective charms mentioned in the book were actual beliefs held by people in early 20th century America. 🌟 The character Od's limp and use of a cane was carefully researched to accurately represent mobility challenges in an era before modern medical treatments and accessibility considerations.