The Apple and the Pearl by Rym Kechacha ~ a Review

by MK French

The travelling ballet company performs "The Apple and the Pearl," and every dancer and musician has dedicated their lives to it. They must perform the show to perfection for the Fae, who are eager to take the members to the Otherworld.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

Febraury 2026; Titan Books; 978-1835414156
ebook, print (336 pages); fantasy

If we didn't already know from the summary that the fae are involved, we'd know from the company program at the start of the book that something is off. Payment offerings are left on seats, and the viewers are asked not to touch or taste the performers. We're then introduced to some members of the company, both dancers and musicians, and staff running the train and show. This way, we see how the members interact with each other and deal with the year and a day pledges to the show. The book takes us through the company's thoughts and preparations before the All Souls' Day performance, letting us peek into their backstories, the motivation to join or stay, and their thoughts about the threat of faeries taking them sway.

The novel is fascinating and takes place over the course of a day. It's a slice of life with an air of menace, and it keeps ramping up as the day progresses. With the continued warning about the faeries taking humans, we're left wondering who it's going to be out of all the cast and musicians we meet. It's a lovely, lyrical story, and it keeps you pulled in until the last page. 

Buy The Apple and the Pearl at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and a golden retriever.

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