Of Bees and Mist

Of Bees and Mist
by Erick Setiawan

OF BEES AND MIST by

Category:

Paranormal

Age Recommendation:

Grades 9+

Release Date: 7/6/10

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Reviewed by:

Rating:

5 Stars

Meridia is a young girl when she meets Daniel, the man who will sweep her off her feet. What follows is

nothing short of a fairy tale. And, just like in all good fairy tales, there is struggle, heartache, and

redemption.

Meridia uncovers secrets in her family as well as Daniel’s. Spells, charms, witchcraft, demons, prophets,

and clairvoyants are an everyday reality in Meridia’s world. Colorful mists whisk her father away, and her

mother’s cooking can heal almost anything that ails you. Her mother-in-law also possesses strange

powers; her vindictive, evil ways manifest themselves into a swarm of bees that attempt to pull Meridia and

Daniel apart.

Meridia must use all of her strength to keep her family together, and mend the broken parts of their lives.

I was truly amazed by this novel. I am constantly drawn to fairy tales, and though this novel reads like one,

none of the content seemed far-fetched. Erick Setiawan was able to create a world where the unbelievable

seemed completely possible. It was easy to get lost in the story because of that.

At the heart of this tale are three women – Meridia, Ravenna, and Eva, and how their relationships color

their world. It is also about strength and the true meaning of love. It is beautifully told, and a joy to read.

A fairy tale for the modern era – brilliant!