This is a charming and imaginative book, and vividly written. It's a book that reminds me a lot of the best classic fairy tales and fantasies that I loved so much when I was younger, and one of the most unique YA/MG fantasy books I've read in a long time.

But I did not love it. I think I would have preferred a simpler book, with fewer characters and puzzles and events. The narrative seems to be rushing, rushing, rushing, and with so much going on at once I didn't feel emotionally invested in September's journey, nor was I even altogether clear about what she actually wanted.

Also: the writing style is, for me, right on the edge between lyrical and annoyingly twee. If you don't take to the style right off in the first few pages, the whole book is going to be hard to take. I was distracted enough by the language and style that I had a difficult time becoming immersed in the story.

3.5 stars.