Touch of Gold by Annie Sullivan

Blink, 2018

ISBN-13: 978-0310766353

Available: Hardcover, Kindle edition, Audiobook, Audio CD

I’m a sucker for fairy tale reimaginings, from dark to modern, from Fables to Tanith Lee. Touch of Gold touches on a story I haven’t seen a lot–  the tale of King Midas.

Kora is King Midas’ daughter. Curses run in their family line, from the superstition (possible curse) that made her father king, to the famous Golden Touch. Kora herself, who was turned to gold, and, in this tale, later transformed back, retains tell-tale marks of the curse (as does her father).

Midas can no longer turn things to gold, but he still suffers from a magical obsession with gold, particularly with the handful of relics he turned before the curse was altered to bring Kora back. Kora still retains odd powers and a golden gleam to her skin. When the artifacts Midas originally turned to gold are stolen, Kora sets off to hunt them down and save her kingdom.

While most of the twists are clear, I really enjoyed this tale. The author keeps the tale serious and meaningful, while also painting a vivid new fairy tale land. And there are lots of pirates, including the sinister Captain Skulls.

Kora is conflicted, but determined and courageous.  She struggles with issues of social propriety and the role she is called on to fulfill versus the one she wants to take. She struggles with what it means to be a proper ruler and do what is best for her kingdom, while also protecting her father. The book lays out an enjoyable tale from a familiar map.

Fairy tale fans will find this book to have delightful hints of Robin McKinley and Jane Austen. Recommended for public library collections. Ages 11+.

Contains: violence and some gore

Reviewed by Michele Lee