The Truth-Teller's Tale

The New York Times bestselling author of The Shape Changer’s Wife presents an enchanting young adult fantasy where the truth can both heal and destroy.

“A thoroughly entertaining tale, combining fantasy, romance, and just a touch of classic Shakespearian soap opera.”—Chronicle

“Shinn’s prose is elegant and her characterization and plotting are symbiotic and satisfying.”—BCCB

Innkeeper’s daughters Adele and Eleda are “mirror twins”—identical twins whose looks are reflections of each other’s—and their special talents are like mirrors, too. Adele is a Safe-Keeper, entrusted with hearing and never revealing others’ secrets; Eleda is a Truth-Teller, who cannot tell a lie when asked a direct question. The twins are treasured by the residents of Merendon—especially their best friend, Roelynn Karro, whose strict, wealthy father is determined to marry her off to the prince.

When the twins are seventeen, a handsome dancing-master and his apprentice come to stay at the inn, and thus begins a chain of romance, mistaken identity, and some very surprising truths and falsehoods . . .