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Hearth and Bard Tales #2
Fourth Sister
Whitney Award Finalist 2021
The fourth of seven sisters, Shisei has always been called cursed. Her twin died at birth. Her name shortens to shi—death. And in a world where superstition rules and myths walk among mortals, she's the only one who can see the fox spirit that shadows her.
When her eldest sister's pregnancy threatens to become another death laid at Shisei's feet, she flees before death can follow her home again. She finds purpose as an apprentice to a mask maker, learning that broken things, when mended with gold, become more beautiful than before.
But death finds her anyway.
When her youngest sister faces execution for a crime she didn't commit, she's given seven impossible tests to prove her innocence—each representing a divine attribute. Each sister possesses one gift, and Shisei holds the thread that can weave them all together: the art of illusion. Using her talents to make each sister appear as the youngest, they'll risk everything on a deception that could condemn them all.
Woven with haiku, Japanese folklore, and the delicate art of mask-making, Fourth Sister is a love story—not of romance, but of sisterhood. A tale of self-acceptance, mending broken relationships, and discovering that what we believe is our curse may be our greatest strength.
Little Women x Spirited Away
***
Hearth and Bard Tales
Forgotten fairy tales retold with soul
Historical fantasy where magic is real, love is hard-won, and hope always finds a way.
The fourth of seven sisters, Shisei has always been called cursed. Her twin died at birth. Her name shortens to shi—death. And in a world where superstition rules and myths walk among mortals, she's the only one who can see the fox spirit that shadows her.
When her eldest sister's pregnancy threatens to become another death laid at Shisei's feet, she flees before death can follow her home again. She finds purpose as an apprentice to a mask maker, learning that broken things, when mended with gold, become more beautiful than before.
But death finds her anyway.
When her youngest sister faces execution for a crime she didn't commit, she's given seven impossible tests to prove her innocence—each representing a divine attribute. Each sister possesses one gift, and Shisei holds the thread that can weave them all together: the art of illusion. Using her talents to make each sister appear as the youngest, they'll risk everything on a deception that could condemn them all.
Woven with haiku, Japanese folklore, and the delicate art of mask-making, Fourth Sister is a love story—not of romance, but of sisterhood. A tale of self-acceptance, mending broken relationships, and discovering that what we believe is our curse may be our greatest strength.
Little Women x Spirited Away
***
Hearth and Bard Tales
Forgotten fairy tales retold with soul
Historical fantasy where magic is real, love is hard-won, and hope always finds a way.
286 pages, ebook
Published February 1, 2021
10 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Farb
11 books47 followersM.L. Farb writes fantasy with a fairy-tale soul—stories where forgotten folktales find new life, and original worlds blossom from mythic roots.
From intimate retellings to sweeping tales of political intrigue, her books grapple with power, identity, and what it truly means to be seen. Readers can expect lyrical prose, richly layered characters, and questions that linger long after the final page.
Hers is clean, thoughtful fantasy where hope is hard-won, not handed out, and happy endings are always worth the fight.
She lives in a lively, geeky household with her husband and six kids, who spark many of her story ideas with single offhand comments. When she’s not writing, she’s building—converting a shed into a writing nook or a bunk bed into a recording studio—proving her imagination thrives equally in words and sawdust.
WHAT READERS SAY
“The writing style is smart and engaging. Brave young men, vivacious heroine. Vibrant world, exciting stakes!” – H.S.J. Williams, author of Moonscript
“Farb has created story line, character development, humor, plot twists, incredible prose, and deep truths that are all phenomenal.” – Petey (Goodreads)
“I love JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, Lloyd Alexander, and now ML Farb.” – John (Goodreads)
“This could be one of my all time favorite series, right up there with Harry Potter and the Hunger Games!“ – Mari (Audible)
“It is an exquisite tale of hope and redemption.“ – Onlinebookclub review
“It can be difficult to find a story that can boast exciting adventure, true love, clever riddles, exceptional and believable character arc, as well as a complete lack of rudeness or depravity. “
– Melanie (Goodreads)
From intimate retellings to sweeping tales of political intrigue, her books grapple with power, identity, and what it truly means to be seen. Readers can expect lyrical prose, richly layered characters, and questions that linger long after the final page.
Hers is clean, thoughtful fantasy where hope is hard-won, not handed out, and happy endings are always worth the fight.
She lives in a lively, geeky household with her husband and six kids, who spark many of her story ideas with single offhand comments. When she’s not writing, she’s building—converting a shed into a writing nook or a bunk bed into a recording studio—proving her imagination thrives equally in words and sawdust.
WHAT READERS SAY
“The writing style is smart and engaging. Brave young men, vivacious heroine. Vibrant world, exciting stakes!” – H.S.J. Williams, author of Moonscript
“Farb has created story line, character development, humor, plot twists, incredible prose, and deep truths that are all phenomenal.” – Petey (Goodreads)
“I love JRR Tolkien, CS Lewis, Lloyd Alexander, and now ML Farb.” – John (Goodreads)
“This could be one of my all time favorite series, right up there with Harry Potter and the Hunger Games!“ – Mari (Audible)
“It is an exquisite tale of hope and redemption.“ – Onlinebookclub review
“It can be difficult to find a story that can boast exciting adventure, true love, clever riddles, exceptional and believable character arc, as well as a complete lack of rudeness or depravity. “
– Melanie (Goodreads)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 23, 2021
Fourth Sister will appeal to fans of slow-burn books focused on character's study and growth. It combines myth, fantasy, and poetry (each chapter begins with a haiku) to tell the story of Shisei, the fourth of seven sisters, blamed for the death of her twin brother. The first part of the story follows her as she apprentices to a mask maker.
I enjoyed this part, but every story needs a strong conflict to fully develop. In this case, Shisei's youngest sister is accused of killing the local Kazoku's son. Only a clever deception can save the sisters.
I enjoyed how M.L. Farb wove Japanese culture and folklore into the story. Her focus is on characters and broken relationships that can be healed and deepened through work and self-acceptance. Shisei starts out as a whiny girl, but that changes throughout the book, making her character growth palpable.
All told, Fourth Sister is an entertaining and clean story. I would recommend it to readers looking for a heartwarming and thoughtful read about family ties, guilt, and self-acceptance. And did I mention the four-tailed fox that hops in and out of Shisei’s everyday life? Cause there is one :)
I enjoyed this part, but every story needs a strong conflict to fully develop. In this case, Shisei's youngest sister is accused of killing the local Kazoku's son. Only a clever deception can save the sisters.
I enjoyed how M.L. Farb wove Japanese culture and folklore into the story. Her focus is on characters and broken relationships that can be healed and deepened through work and self-acceptance. Shisei starts out as a whiny girl, but that changes throughout the book, making her character growth palpable.
All told, Fourth Sister is an entertaining and clean story. I would recommend it to readers looking for a heartwarming and thoughtful read about family ties, guilt, and self-acceptance. And did I mention the four-tailed fox that hops in and out of Shisei’s everyday life? Cause there is one :)
Read
August 12, 2021A sweet, gentle story in a vividly-depicted Japanese setting. The fourth of seven sisters, Shisei has been haunted by bad luck all her life, in the shape of a mischievous kitsune. This book took a little while to grab me - I reliably gravitate towards more tightly-plotted fare - but it did eventually draw me in as Shisei and her sisters face a life-threatening predicament and must use all their skills and magic to escape.
January 17, 2021
From the very first page, poetic words pull the reader through this incredible story. It’s not a story that is full of action, but the beauty of the words and story itself make it hard to put down. I love this author’s amazing gift for storytelling, and this book is by far my most favorite one yet. It teaches about self-acceptance, looking deeper than the surface, and that mending broken relationships can make them deeper and even more beautiful. What a powerful, inspiring, and memorable story this is! This is definitely a book I am buying when it comes out in paperback.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2021
I received a copy of Fourth Sister in exchange for an honest review. See the full review at https://rosieamber.wordpress.com/
Fourth Sister follows Shisei, the titular fourth sister of a family of seven, as she struggles to come to terms with the curse and fox that have stalked her throughout her life. Over the course of the novel Shisei leaves home, returns home, learns a trade, practices her poetry, and learns to accept herself because of her unique gifts, rather than in spite of them.
Unlike other fairytale-esque novels, probably the most refreshing thing about Fourth Sister is that this isn’t a romantic story. There is no quest for a prince or hunger for a husband here. If anything, the closest thing to a handsome prince we have in Fourth Sister is the antagonist, far from the romantic ideal. Yet, this is a love story, very much so. A familial love story. A sisterly story.
Delicately rendered with stunning details and the kind of attention that comes with love and care, Farb’s Nihon never feels like a caricature of Japanese history or culture. As with her other Hearth and Bard Tales, copious research obviously went into this novel, and I suspect consultations with a cultural expert, and that shows in every page.
Engaging, heartbreaking, and delightfully ticklish in places, this is a story for fans of shojo manga and faitytale alike. Farb is a born tale-spinner and with her Hearth and Bard Tales has given herself the latitude to explore a world of inspiration. Fourth Sister stands a testament to her talent, her ingenuity, and her heart for the worlds she creates.
Fourth Sister follows Shisei, the titular fourth sister of a family of seven, as she struggles to come to terms with the curse and fox that have stalked her throughout her life. Over the course of the novel Shisei leaves home, returns home, learns a trade, practices her poetry, and learns to accept herself because of her unique gifts, rather than in spite of them.
Unlike other fairytale-esque novels, probably the most refreshing thing about Fourth Sister is that this isn’t a romantic story. There is no quest for a prince or hunger for a husband here. If anything, the closest thing to a handsome prince we have in Fourth Sister is the antagonist, far from the romantic ideal. Yet, this is a love story, very much so. A familial love story. A sisterly story.
Delicately rendered with stunning details and the kind of attention that comes with love and care, Farb’s Nihon never feels like a caricature of Japanese history or culture. As with her other Hearth and Bard Tales, copious research obviously went into this novel, and I suspect consultations with a cultural expert, and that shows in every page.
Engaging, heartbreaking, and delightfully ticklish in places, this is a story for fans of shojo manga and faitytale alike. Farb is a born tale-spinner and with her Hearth and Bard Tales has given herself the latitude to explore a world of inspiration. Fourth Sister stands a testament to her talent, her ingenuity, and her heart for the worlds she creates.
February 2, 2021
This book is a beautiful example of amazing storytelling. My attention was captured from the very beginning, and I was thoroughly engrossed in the story to the final page. Shisei is the fourth sister in a family of seven daughters, and she carries a heavy burden. Death follows her - she has been told this, and she fully believes it. She leaves her family to try to save them from the death that follows her, and is taken in by a mask maker named Takumi. He is a wise mentor who teaches her to see others and more importantly herself from more than one angle. As someone who is greatly intrigued by Japanese language and culture, I appreciated how the author intricately wove it in through the story, giving another layer of beauty. Shisei has much to teach any reader, from the importance of family unity and forgiveness, to the strong impact of the thoughts we have toward ourselves. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves being swept away by a fantastic, heartwarming tale!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Read
August 22, 2021As a reader of M.L. Farb's previous books, I knew that when I opened to the first page, I was in for a treat. Fourth Sister pulled me in with its beautiful poetry which precedes each chapter; with its shining core of truth and life; with the depth of its characters, whose stories brought me both joy and sorrow.
What a delightful read! I thoroughly enjoyed following Shisei's story—seeing her learn and grow as a person, mending her broken spirit, and discovering her true value, discarding the death which had haunted her steps from birth.
This story is full of magic and beauty; bright, clever poetry; and the golden thread which binds it all together: love. Go forth, and let this story whisk you away for a time—nourish your soul with beautiful words and memorable characters. You will not be disappointed.
What a delightful read! I thoroughly enjoyed following Shisei's story—seeing her learn and grow as a person, mending her broken spirit, and discovering her true value, discarding the death which had haunted her steps from birth.
This story is full of magic and beauty; bright, clever poetry; and the golden thread which binds it all together: love. Go forth, and let this story whisk you away for a time—nourish your soul with beautiful words and memorable characters. You will not be disappointed.
January 30, 2021
This is a beautiful epic tale full of action, adventure, intrigue and culture. The author truly drops you in the life of the fourth sister, her thoughts, feelings and setting. I did get a tad lost with some of the vocabulary and names, but it did not detract from the story. Really enjoyable and enlightening to watch this young girl learn and grow.
February 14, 2021
Middle Child Problems Are Universal
This book is about the fourth sister in a family of seven daughters and her journey to discover herself, her place in the world, and her place in the family.
Shisei is the fourth daughter and believes she is cursed as her twin brother died while she lived when they were born. She's never felt worthy or talented compared to her naturally confident and talented sisters. Names have meaning and in some cultures, the meaning change depending on the context and character like it does for Shisei.
Her name is made of two characters but she's always focused on the negative connotation of her first character, shi, essentially cutting off half of herself.
She exiles herself from her family returning when her youngest sister is accused of murder. In working to save her sister, she discovers herself and her bond with her family.
This book did a lovely portrayal of Shisei's journey and her family. I would've loved an expansion of her love life but the story still works without it and it's just a personal inclination.
I'm not Japanese so I can't tell you how accurate it is but from what I know I feel like this book has handled it respectfully and well.
4.5/5
This book is about the fourth sister in a family of seven daughters and her journey to discover herself, her place in the world, and her place in the family.
Shisei is the fourth daughter and believes she is cursed as her twin brother died while she lived when they were born. She's never felt worthy or talented compared to her naturally confident and talented sisters. Names have meaning and in some cultures, the meaning change depending on the context and character like it does for Shisei.
Her name is made of two characters but she's always focused on the negative connotation of her first character, shi, essentially cutting off half of herself.
She exiles herself from her family returning when her youngest sister is accused of murder. In working to save her sister, she discovers herself and her bond with her family.
This book did a lovely portrayal of Shisei's journey and her family. I would've loved an expansion of her love life but the story still works without it and it's just a personal inclination.
I'm not Japanese so I can't tell you how accurate it is but from what I know I feel like this book has handled it respectfully and well.
4.5/5
February 10, 2021
Shisei is plagued by the white four-tailed fox that tricks and taunts her but occasionally helps her. Is this mischief-maker a blessing or a curse? Death seems to follow her regardless and makes her feel unwanted by her sisters. An apprenticeship with the mask maker may help her run away from her problems for a while, but in the end, Shi will have to face her fears and reveal the talent she’s been hiding inside all along.
I enjoyed the Japanese culture and the mystery of the four-tailed fox that hopped in and out of Shisei’s everyday life. I’m typically not a poetry person, but I loved the haiku at the start of each chapter and looked forward to the foreshadowing hidden within the lyrics of each line. I also loved the way that Shisei had to work through problems throughout the book—she was a bit whiny and slow to listen in a few places, but her growth felt genuine because of the struggles she faced and the perseverance she used to overcome them.
I loved the apprenticeship section of the book and was very pleased to see the book come full circle in the end. The skills and lessons that Shisei learned during the apprenticeship guided her through the second half of the book when her sister had been accused of murder. The epilogue of the book filled my heart with joy because I got the ending that I had hoped for, and this scene was well worth waiting for.
I’d highly recommend this book to YA readers looking for a clean story heavily woven with Japanese culture. As an occasional manga reader, I felt more at ease with all the Japanese terms and was more familiar with the culture and honorifics, so this book may appeal more to those who love anime and manga. But Ms. Farb does an excellent job following up the story with several food-for-thought questions and research notes for those who want to take a few moments to think deeper about the story and learn more about the culture. I appreciated how the questions made me think about different aspects of the book and brought out more meaning from the story. The bonus scene at the very end of the book was a pleasure to read as well. I look forward to the next tale that The Bard has to share and future books from this author!
I received an advance reader copy of the book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I enjoyed the Japanese culture and the mystery of the four-tailed fox that hopped in and out of Shisei’s everyday life. I’m typically not a poetry person, but I loved the haiku at the start of each chapter and looked forward to the foreshadowing hidden within the lyrics of each line. I also loved the way that Shisei had to work through problems throughout the book—she was a bit whiny and slow to listen in a few places, but her growth felt genuine because of the struggles she faced and the perseverance she used to overcome them.
I loved the apprenticeship section of the book and was very pleased to see the book come full circle in the end. The skills and lessons that Shisei learned during the apprenticeship guided her through the second half of the book when her sister had been accused of murder. The epilogue of the book filled my heart with joy because I got the ending that I had hoped for, and this scene was well worth waiting for.
I’d highly recommend this book to YA readers looking for a clean story heavily woven with Japanese culture. As an occasional manga reader, I felt more at ease with all the Japanese terms and was more familiar with the culture and honorifics, so this book may appeal more to those who love anime and manga. But Ms. Farb does an excellent job following up the story with several food-for-thought questions and research notes for those who want to take a few moments to think deeper about the story and learn more about the culture. I appreciated how the questions made me think about different aspects of the book and brought out more meaning from the story. The bonus scene at the very end of the book was a pleasure to read as well. I look forward to the next tale that The Bard has to share and future books from this author!
I received an advance reader copy of the book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 5, 2021
Fourth Sister
Hearth and Bard Tales #2
By M.L. Farb
Shisei is cursed, she's known it most of her life. She is followed by death. She is responsible for her twin brother's death, and she feels she must do what she can to fulfill the promise of what his life might have been. When she brings about another death she is compelled to leave her home and family behind. Disguising herself, Shisei apprentices herself to a mask maker. But the four-tailed fox, a white kitsune, that has plagued her life has followed her - a trickster that is determined to ruin the new life she is now creating for herself.
When Shisei returns to the village of her family she brings death with her. When the only son of the village Kazoku dies the blame is laid at the feet of her youngest sister - the penalty death! To save her sister's life, Shisei must become more than she has ever believed possible. She must become a leader and lead her sisters in a deception that could free one or cost them all their very lives.
Shisei has believed lies and allowed them to shape her life and undermine her worth in her own eyes. She's lived her life in penance but to save her sisters she must discover who she is.
Fourth Sister is a delightful story that takes the reader into a world that many are unfamiliar with. Combining myth, fantasy, and the beauty of haiku the reader is taken on a journey - a journey that one wishes would continue on. The story is well worth the time spent within its pages. It celebrates the bonds of family and explores the power of words.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Hearth and Bard Tales #2
By M.L. Farb
Shisei is cursed, she's known it most of her life. She is followed by death. She is responsible for her twin brother's death, and she feels she must do what she can to fulfill the promise of what his life might have been. When she brings about another death she is compelled to leave her home and family behind. Disguising herself, Shisei apprentices herself to a mask maker. But the four-tailed fox, a white kitsune, that has plagued her life has followed her - a trickster that is determined to ruin the new life she is now creating for herself.
When Shisei returns to the village of her family she brings death with her. When the only son of the village Kazoku dies the blame is laid at the feet of her youngest sister - the penalty death! To save her sister's life, Shisei must become more than she has ever believed possible. She must become a leader and lead her sisters in a deception that could free one or cost them all their very lives.
Shisei has believed lies and allowed them to shape her life and undermine her worth in her own eyes. She's lived her life in penance but to save her sisters she must discover who she is.
Fourth Sister is a delightful story that takes the reader into a world that many are unfamiliar with. Combining myth, fantasy, and the beauty of haiku the reader is taken on a journey - a journey that one wishes would continue on. The story is well worth the time spent within its pages. It celebrates the bonds of family and explores the power of words.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
February 8, 2021
I've enjoyed previous novels by this author so I was excited to check this one out!
The story follows Shisei who is the fourth of seven sisters. She blames herself for all the bad things that have happened to her and her family. She leaves and becomes an apprentice to a mask maker. When the local Kazoku accuses Shisei's youngest sister of killing is son, Shisei must take the lead and save her sisters.
What a beautifully written book. This was so enchanting and intriguing! This author really knows how to weave an enchanting story for the readers. I couldn't put this down. I honestly finished this in just a couple of sittings because I had to find out how all this was going to end.
I really enjoyed the mixture of Japanese lore, culture, mystery, and fantasy elements. It all came together perfectly in the end.
I felt so bad for Shisei. She feels like a curse. I just wanted her to find her happiness!
**2/8 EDIT
You can for sure read this as a standalone! I read book 1 and that was good. I didn't realize Vasilisa was technically "book 1". That one was really good too. :)
Overall, I loved this book. It was so good. It was enchanting and intriguing. I couldn't put it down. I for sure recommend this. 5 stars.
The story follows Shisei who is the fourth of seven sisters. She blames herself for all the bad things that have happened to her and her family. She leaves and becomes an apprentice to a mask maker. When the local Kazoku accuses Shisei's youngest sister of killing is son, Shisei must take the lead and save her sisters.
What a beautifully written book. This was so enchanting and intriguing! This author really knows how to weave an enchanting story for the readers. I couldn't put this down. I honestly finished this in just a couple of sittings because I had to find out how all this was going to end.
I really enjoyed the mixture of Japanese lore, culture, mystery, and fantasy elements. It all came together perfectly in the end.
I felt so bad for Shisei. She feels like a curse. I just wanted her to find her happiness!
**2/8 EDIT
You can for sure read this as a standalone! I read book 1 and that was good. I didn't realize Vasilisa was technically "book 1". That one was really good too. :)
Overall, I loved this book. It was so good. It was enchanting and intriguing. I couldn't put it down. I for sure recommend this. 5 stars.
July 14, 2021
Fourth Sister is beautifully written and brings the reader into a whole new world of Japanese tradition and folklore. It's evident right away that a lot of research has gone into this story. I love the kitsune four tailed fox, the imagery of Iife in a small narrow-minded village and the struggles the hero, our mask maker, and our heroine, the fourth sister (apprentice) have in loving themselves and finding their place in an unfairly biased society.
It's fun to read about the antics of the fox and how he leads Sheisei to her destiny, pushes her to step out of her comfort zone and realize who she is.
The mask maker is easy to love and the wonderful creations the two main characters bring to life together are interesting to read about and envision.
For me, it's a story of finding hope, redemption and purpose.
I have loved cheering for these characters in Japan. I loved reading the first book that took place in Russia and
I'm anxious to see where the Bard series will take us next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's fun to read about the antics of the fox and how he leads Sheisei to her destiny, pushes her to step out of her comfort zone and realize who she is.
The mask maker is easy to love and the wonderful creations the two main characters bring to life together are interesting to read about and envision.
For me, it's a story of finding hope, redemption and purpose.
I have loved cheering for these characters in Japan. I loved reading the first book that took place in Russia and
I'm anxious to see where the Bard series will take us next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of Fourth Sister and am leaving an honest review. With that said, wow. Wow, wow, wow. I was sucked into another time and place -feudal era Japan, I believe. Because of the poetic descriptive style, I could see every detail clearly in my head. Hear the chirping of the birds. Even almost smell... well, there are a few surprises, so I won't give away spoilers. *Wiggles brows* Let's just say that you're in for a real treat. Suffice it to say I was both entrenched in the culture and story.
If you love fantasy, kitsune, and a relatable woman who struggles with her place in the world, this is definitely the book for you. Shesei is a well-written character who's easy to connect with and follow along her journey.
There are many surprises in Fourth Sister. Most - 98% - I didn't see coming, which is utterly refreshing. I may've literally gasped at times, laughed hard, and even cried at beautiful, soul touching, tender moments.
So get ready for the feels - all of them.
If you love fantasy, kitsune, and a relatable woman who struggles with her place in the world, this is definitely the book for you. Shesei is a well-written character who's easy to connect with and follow along her journey.
There are many surprises in Fourth Sister. Most - 98% - I didn't see coming, which is utterly refreshing. I may've literally gasped at times, laughed hard, and even cried at beautiful, soul touching, tender moments.
So get ready for the feels - all of them.
January 25, 2021
Fourth of seven sisters, Shisei believes she brings death and bad luck because her twin brother died at birth. When her mother dies bearing another boy, she runs away and apprentices to a mask maker. However, when her youngest sister is accused of killing the local leader’s son, Shisei must convince her sisters to band together to save their sister’s life.
Fourth Sister explores some very fascinating subjects, and its interspersed poetry and haikus reinforce the resonance of the novel. The level of detail is wonderful and I was exposed to several subjects like mask making and Japanese folk tales that I had never heard before. Poignant and atmospheric, Fourth Sister is a melodic narrative of devotion and deep feeling as well as finding acceptance with yourself and within your family. It would feel absolutely perfect set to a Studio Ghibli soundtrack. Really wonderful.
I received an arc via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
Fourth Sister explores some very fascinating subjects, and its interspersed poetry and haikus reinforce the resonance of the novel. The level of detail is wonderful and I was exposed to several subjects like mask making and Japanese folk tales that I had never heard before. Poignant and atmospheric, Fourth Sister is a melodic narrative of devotion and deep feeling as well as finding acceptance with yourself and within your family. It would feel absolutely perfect set to a Studio Ghibli soundtrack. Really wonderful.
I received an arc via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
January 27, 2021
What would you do if your two brothers died at birth and one was your twin? What if your eldest sister sent you away, claiming you were cursed to bring death? Would you return home? Would you do whatever it took to win your family back?
These are the dilemmas the main character, Shisei, has to work through. How fitting that she apprentices herself to the mask maker–also an outcast. In fact, as I read the story, I followed many threads connecting her to her sensei, who teaches much more than crafting masks.
As a fairy-tale retelling, this book doesn’t dwell on heavy magic or the large amount of swordplay that many fantasies focus on. Instead, it focuses on the characters and their emotional growth.
And that’s good because Shisei has much more to do than find a way to save her sister who is accused of causing the Kazoku’s son’s death. She must discover her family’s importance in the world…her importance in the world.
The characters in this book are full of life, emotion, and most of all, growth. More than that, they make me laugh, make me worry, and make me think.
A haiku is found at the beginning of each chapter, with a few more scattered throughout the pages. Each one is beautifully crafted and helped me take a minute to ponder what I had read and what I expected to read in the next chapter.
These are the dilemmas the main character, Shisei, has to work through. How fitting that she apprentices herself to the mask maker–also an outcast. In fact, as I read the story, I followed many threads connecting her to her sensei, who teaches much more than crafting masks.
As a fairy-tale retelling, this book doesn’t dwell on heavy magic or the large amount of swordplay that many fantasies focus on. Instead, it focuses on the characters and their emotional growth.
And that’s good because Shisei has much more to do than find a way to save her sister who is accused of causing the Kazoku’s son’s death. She must discover her family’s importance in the world…her importance in the world.
The characters in this book are full of life, emotion, and most of all, growth. More than that, they make me laugh, make me worry, and make me think.
A haiku is found at the beginning of each chapter, with a few more scattered throughout the pages. Each one is beautifully crafted and helped me take a minute to ponder what I had read and what I expected to read in the next chapter.
February 7, 2021
This was a really well written and entertaining book that followed the adventures of Shisei, the fourth of seven sisters. The story is fast paced with interesting characters and situations. The character of the fourth sister and her development is very well portrayed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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October 7, 2021Amazing.
It was the greatest book just like the first one of the series 😊amazing book in the world /universe in all
It was the greatest book just like the first one of the series 😊amazing book in the world /universe in all
April 15, 2022
A beautiful story about love and sacrifice.
February 12, 2023
I won this on a StoryGraph giveaway. I started it and then couldn’t stop. It’s an excellent character study. I did find Shisei to be a little annoying at times because she would continue to say she couldn’t do something, but she always tried to do that even after saying she couldn’t which I admired, although I wish she could have gained more confidence earlier in the book. I really liked the tie to the kitsune and the mask making. So fascinating. I know it says in the synopsis that it is a mix of Little Women and Spirited Away - I can see Little Women but not really Spirited Away. Which doesn’t matter because I still really enjoyed it.
February 26, 2021
Fourth Sister pulls you into a world of Japanese culture and legend in a remarkable way. Every description and dialogue is so authentic that it is like looking into another place and time and immerses you in a world where myths are reality but superstition also abounds. The characters are intensely human. One of the captivating elements is how true to life they are.
The book starts reminiscent of "A Single Shard" and gradually adds mythical elements as the heroine overcomes her own self-prejudice and discovers her own value and talents. It deals with questions of gender and class equality and learning to see self and others clearly. At the same time it has a fun story of discovery and family healing through shared challenges and adventure where talent, wit, and love triumph instead of the usual adventure fare of physical strength and fighting.
The book starts reminiscent of "A Single Shard" and gradually adds mythical elements as the heroine overcomes her own self-prejudice and discovers her own value and talents. It deals with questions of gender and class equality and learning to see self and others clearly. At the same time it has a fun story of discovery and family healing through shared challenges and adventure where talent, wit, and love triumph instead of the usual adventure fare of physical strength and fighting.
February 14, 2021
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this wonderful book down! I will be reading the next book in this wonderful series!
November 2, 2025
My favorite of the trio
I love the characters and story line
I love the characters and story line
January 22, 2025
The virtues of fairytales are in the messages they share. They have been a way of teaching virtues throughout time and across cultures. M. L. Farb provides a retelling of such a fairytale in Fourth Sister. Here is a presentation of a Japanese tale bracketed with a story about the narrator. Fourth Sister is part of a series, A Hearth and Bard Tale.
I was given a copy of Fourth Sister by M. L. Farb for review purposes.
Plot
Shisei is the fourth of seven daughters, and she believes herself to be cursed. All her life she has been troubled by a kitsune, a mischievous yako, field fox, who enjoys getting her in trouble and causing problems. Shisei is the only one in her family who can see the fox. Because of the belief the kitsune is a yako who will continue to cause ill fortune for her and her family, she leaves them in the hopes that her curse is not found out and the entire family suffer.
It is through her personal trials after leaving her family home Shisei learns more about herself, her life, and her place in it. Eventually she is the one who saves her sisters and her father’s land by embracing who she is and what she is capable of. During the process she learns the kitsune is not a yako, but a zenko, a good or Inari fox. She also discovers more about the zenko that changes her life forever.
Style
The opening of the book is outside the story and sets up the narrator. It is not only outside the story, but also the country of origin. It creates a familiar westernized setting of a travelling bard telling a story by the hearth. It also provides a time in our past for the main story. The bard then weaves her tale for her audience and transports us to Japan. This setting is not returned to until after the telling of Shesei’s tale.
Farb’s treatment of this Japanese tale is well done. The story content and culture are treated with respect. It doesn’t feel like the story was twisted to fit the idealizations of western culture and expectations. Instead, it is presented as its own tale to be told. The bard provides a few words to give the context of the lesson. There is also an added section in the back of the book to explain terms and some context of the Japanese words and ideology.
Overall
Fourth Sister is a delightful read. It is a fairytale with a moral. It can be easily read by younger readers and enjoyed by readers of all ages. It has lessons to help everyone.
I was able to read Fourth Sister without being slowed down by the terminology. I have some knowledge from my own studies. I am sure many younger readers have some understanding of the concepts because of anime. Even if you’re not familiar with Japanese culture and myth, there is enough in the story, and at the end of the book, to make the experience enjoyable.
I recommend Fourth Sister to those who enjoy lighter reading with a moral and those who enjoy the fairytales read to us at bedtime when we were little.
You can read the complete review at
http://guildmastergaming.blogspot.com...
I was given a copy of Fourth Sister by M. L. Farb for review purposes.
Plot
Shisei is the fourth of seven daughters, and she believes herself to be cursed. All her life she has been troubled by a kitsune, a mischievous yako, field fox, who enjoys getting her in trouble and causing problems. Shisei is the only one in her family who can see the fox. Because of the belief the kitsune is a yako who will continue to cause ill fortune for her and her family, she leaves them in the hopes that her curse is not found out and the entire family suffer.
It is through her personal trials after leaving her family home Shisei learns more about herself, her life, and her place in it. Eventually she is the one who saves her sisters and her father’s land by embracing who she is and what she is capable of. During the process she learns the kitsune is not a yako, but a zenko, a good or Inari fox. She also discovers more about the zenko that changes her life forever.
Style
The opening of the book is outside the story and sets up the narrator. It is not only outside the story, but also the country of origin. It creates a familiar westernized setting of a travelling bard telling a story by the hearth. It also provides a time in our past for the main story. The bard then weaves her tale for her audience and transports us to Japan. This setting is not returned to until after the telling of Shesei’s tale.
Farb’s treatment of this Japanese tale is well done. The story content and culture are treated with respect. It doesn’t feel like the story was twisted to fit the idealizations of western culture and expectations. Instead, it is presented as its own tale to be told. The bard provides a few words to give the context of the lesson. There is also an added section in the back of the book to explain terms and some context of the Japanese words and ideology.
Overall
Fourth Sister is a delightful read. It is a fairytale with a moral. It can be easily read by younger readers and enjoyed by readers of all ages. It has lessons to help everyone.
I was able to read Fourth Sister without being slowed down by the terminology. I have some knowledge from my own studies. I am sure many younger readers have some understanding of the concepts because of anime. Even if you’re not familiar with Japanese culture and myth, there is enough in the story, and at the end of the book, to make the experience enjoyable.
I recommend Fourth Sister to those who enjoy lighter reading with a moral and those who enjoy the fairytales read to us at bedtime when we were little.
You can read the complete review at
http://guildmastergaming.blogspot.com...
February 12, 2021
The story opens with Shisei, the main character, basically living her life in ways to make up for the fact that her male twin died at/just before birth. She carries this burden of guilt, and her family, sometimes intentionally, heaps more of this guilt onto her shoulders, leaving her to lead a life with few options. When she is forced to leave home, she begins a journey of discovery and possibility.
I started this book expecting to enjoy a story about a female lead who grew into herself, and while I absolutely did find that in this story, it was the poetry of possibility that the author wove into the words that had me finish the story in one sitting. This was also more of a love story than I had anticipated, though not necessarily "that" kind of love story. Shisei's journey showed her that loving herself and loving others isn't about perfection, it's about seeing the cracks and the flaws and the inconsistencies and loving despite them. All in all, I enjoyed the story, and the only reason I didn't give it five stars is that while Shisei's relationships with her eldest sister, her sensei, and her "uncle" all developed in ways that held true to the promise of possibilities that is a framework to the story, the relationships with the remaining sisters didn't feel as nuanced. I didn't feel this lack for most of the story, though, so don't let it deter you from reading it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I started this book expecting to enjoy a story about a female lead who grew into herself, and while I absolutely did find that in this story, it was the poetry of possibility that the author wove into the words that had me finish the story in one sitting. This was also more of a love story than I had anticipated, though not necessarily "that" kind of love story. Shisei's journey showed her that loving herself and loving others isn't about perfection, it's about seeing the cracks and the flaws and the inconsistencies and loving despite them. All in all, I enjoyed the story, and the only reason I didn't give it five stars is that while Shisei's relationships with her eldest sister, her sensei, and her "uncle" all developed in ways that held true to the promise of possibilities that is a framework to the story, the relationships with the remaining sisters didn't feel as nuanced. I didn't feel this lack for most of the story, though, so don't let it deter you from reading it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2021
Interesting Japanese type fairytale
Shisei thinks she has a curse and causes death. Her oldest sister blames her for the deaths of the male children in her family as well as her mother’s death, and Shisei believes and lives the lie. Shisei sees a mischievous white kitsune, a fox with four tails, which adds to her sister’s superstition because others can’t see the fox. This is a tale of accepting and understanding others for their special gifts inside and not judging a person for what he or she looks like on the outside.
This story was difficult for me to engage with at first because there was a lot of flowery descriptions, thoughts, and discussions. I enjoy more interesting dialog, which picked up later in the story. I enjoyed Shisei‘s interactions with the fox once she could communicate with him. The writing flowed smoothly to a satisfying conclusion. I was glad Shisei found a solution where her family could be safe.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
Shisei thinks she has a curse and causes death. Her oldest sister blames her for the deaths of the male children in her family as well as her mother’s death, and Shisei believes and lives the lie. Shisei sees a mischievous white kitsune, a fox with four tails, which adds to her sister’s superstition because others can’t see the fox. This is a tale of accepting and understanding others for their special gifts inside and not judging a person for what he or she looks like on the outside.
This story was difficult for me to engage with at first because there was a lot of flowery descriptions, thoughts, and discussions. I enjoy more interesting dialog, which picked up later in the story. I enjoyed Shisei‘s interactions with the fox once she could communicate with him. The writing flowed smoothly to a satisfying conclusion. I was glad Shisei found a solution where her family could be safe.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
May 13, 2023
3.5 stars - A sweet, idyllic story about the fourth of seven sisters, whom death follows. I very much enjoyed the story plot as well as the author's voice. She paints beautiful scenery, and I found myself lost in the world she created. The book is clearly well-researched and the story's flow made me wish I was laying out in a field reading away.
While I very much enjoyed the story, with first person point of view, I think a deeper point of view would help make me more invested in the main character. I also wished there was more development of her magic during the second half of the book. Shisei simply knew how to create an illusion, and it seemed like a really simple resolution.
Overall, I did enjoy the author's story, and I'd happily pick up another one of her books.
While I very much enjoyed the story, with first person point of view, I think a deeper point of view would help make me more invested in the main character. I also wished there was more development of her magic during the second half of the book. Shisei simply knew how to create an illusion, and it seemed like a really simple resolution.
Overall, I did enjoy the author's story, and I'd happily pick up another one of her books.
February 1, 2022
I enjoyed this story, though it didn't capture me as much as the other books I have read by M. L. Farb, it is no less in the detail and extensive research she pours into her stories. The setting is well developed and her characters have such beautiful depth and growth throughout the story. The romance is more subtle in this one than the other Hearth and Bard Tales, which being a fan for a love story may have been why I didn't become quite as invested in this one as the others. However, I still would recommend this read for any who love a detailed story that completely immerses you into a culture!
February 10, 2021
Shishei is blamed for her twin brother's death and seen as unlucky particularly towards male births. Sent away from her family, she forges her own path by taking the identity of her twin brother and becoming a mask maker's apprentice. This is a tale of self growth, development and finding one's place. ML Farb has again captured the beauty of this Japanese tale. A fantastic read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2021
A nice slow burn novel for those that like to read of filial piety, determination, self doubt, and ultimately self actualization. Punctuated with aspects of Japanese culture a good read if you have time.
March 13, 2023
Farb is a talented story teller and Fourth Sister a beautiful story.
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