I've now read five Robin McKinley books (Beauty, The Blue Sword, The Hero & The Crown, Sunshine, and now Deerskin), and my admiration for her continues to grow. Deerskin is simply magnificent. Many of the familiar elements of McKinley's other works are here: kingdoms and courtiers, magical gifts and magical beings, unbreakable bonds between humans and animals, and even a dragon. But, Deerskin goes beyond the trappings of fantasy to unflinchingly explore the neverending toll of violence and betrayal. The horror at the heart of Deerskin is inflicted by human hands, not by magic or fantastical creatures, and that makes it all the more real. Lissar, later known as Deerskin and Moonwoman, is an unforgettable heroine -- damaged and afraid, yet somehow managing to survive. Her tale of suffering and redemption is moving and believable. I highly recommend Deerskin, certainly for fans of Robin McKinley, but also to anyone interested in a riveting, well-written, and heartwrenching tale. As for me, I can't wait to continue with the rest of her books!