Magic, Flour, and a Pinch of Sarcasm There are books where you know within the first few pages: this was written for me. Mona isn’t a hero who hurls lightning bolts or saves kingdoms—she’s a baker whose magic is strictly limited to dough. And that’s exactly what makes her so wonderfully human. What I particularly loved: The Humor: The writing is simply delicious. When Mona entreats her biscuits to be fluffy like little lambs ("only without the poop stuck to your tail. Because that's gross"), I was immediately hooked. T. Kingfisher manages to maintain this whimsical wit even in dire situations. Bob the Sourdough: He absolutely has to be mentioned! Bob is moody, headstrong, and sometimes a bit creepy, but he is fiercely loyal to Mona. It’s fascinating (and incredibly funny) how a sourdough starter can be both a faithful companion and a serious threat capable of taking down entire armies. Perspective on Growing Up: Mona’s internal monologue is pure gold. Her sarcastic take on the world of adults—questioning if being targeted for assassination makes her an "honorary grown-up"—is as amusing as it is profound. Whimsical Magic: I loved the mention of the wizard who just grew roses. It puts Mona's "bread magic" into such an interesting context. And the witch who can bring dead horses back to life? A wonderfully dark contrast to the cozy bakery. Resilience with Bite: Even after a six-hour march in the pouring rain, Mona doesn't lose her spark or her quirky nature. She stays true to herself, no matter how dire the circumstances. A Little Bonus for Creatives: As a knitter, my heart naturally beats faster for stories like this. It’s about craftsmanship, the love for detail, and the fact that even "minor" talents can have a massive impact when it counts. Conclusion: A book full of heart, dough, and a dash of darkness. Perfect for anyone who loves heroes who would rather bake a tray of cookies than save the world—but do it anyway.

4.5 Sterne ☺️ Eine richtig süße aber auch düstere kleine Story.