"Collette captures the brutal rhythms of medieval village life with expertise... Against these cruel banalities stands Madelaine--lovely, unbroken, and forged for heroism by a lifetime of disappointments mixed with unexpected joys."--Foreword Reviews

"A dazzling, incantatory novel. Collette sets her puppet world swirling in a macabre, captivating ballet."--Le Point

"Sandrine Collette rises to the pinnacle of her art."--Le Parisien

"An intense and harrowing novel." --Femme Actuelle

"Overflowing with life." --Télérama

"A brilliant tour de force." --La Vie

"Simply impressive."--Lire Magazine

"Collette is at the height of her powers."--Version Femina

"Dazzling."--Point de Vue

"An unparalleled storytelling talent."--L'OBS