Igor Arien
The New Year’s Tale from Kaironeth is a richly woven winter fantasy about Polina, a kind-hearted orphan living under the harsh rule of her stepmother Helga and stepsister Greta, and Queen Adelia, the impulsive young ruler whose New Year’s decree sets unexpected events into motion. When Adelia demands fresh snowdrops-flowers that cannot bloom in winter-Polina is sent into the snowbound forest on an impossible quest her family hopes to exploit for their own gain.In the forest, Polina encounters the ancient Guardians of Time and Seasons-living embodiments of the twelve months-who take pity on her plight. Moved by her humility, they grant her a brief spring in the heart of winter, allowing her to gather the miraculous flowers and gifting her a magical ring from April, a symbol of renewal and hope. Meanwhile, Helga and Greta spin lies and schemes to seize the queen’s promised reward.At the palace, the truth behind the snowdrops begins to surface. Queen Adelia-caught between pride, insecurity, and the expectations of leadership-must confront the consequences of her decree and the limits of her power. As the Guardians intervene with trials, revelations, and a blizzard summoned from the edge of the year, both girls are tested in ways that reveal their true character. Polina grows into quiet strength and confidence, while Adelia learns empathy, humility, and the responsibilities of genuine rule.Blending the warmth of Slavic folklore with the emotional depth of a modern coming-of-age story, the book weaves together humor, political farce, mythic resonance, and moments of profound tenderness. Teens and adults will recognize its nuanced exploration of identity, responsibility, and the quiet courage it takes to grow, while younger readers may be drawn to its enchanted forests and whimsical creatures.Rich, immersive prose and evocative Bilibin-inspired illustrations bring Kaironeth to life with cinematic beauty. At once timeless and freshly imagined, The New Year’s Tale from Kaironeth is an enchanting winter adventure about friendship, hope, and the light we carry into a new year.
