“In this politically astute story filled with skillfully incorporated background information about a fascinating and complex historical period, Vik’s quest authentically and thoroughly incorporates her struggles with OCD and complex PTSD. . . . This gripping, deeply human, and eerie mystery has parallels to current events that will provoke readers to think. Speculative, unsettling, and intensely emotional.”
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“For teens seeking thrills, this book will keep them up at night; those seeking to learn about an inspiring historical moment of resistance to totalitarianism will also gain something…This tale of creepy disappearances in the last days of a despotic regime combines the elemental terror of a fairy tale with historical fact.”
—School Library Journal

“The setting effectively uses both the inherent creepiness of an insular town given to supernatural beliefs and the menacing Soviet presence to maximize tension and scares. . . A bit of sci-fi and political intrigue makes this changeling tale a compelling genre mash-up with a broad audience.”
—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books