Rosemary and Rue (October Daye, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Seanan McGuire's Rosemary and Rue introduces October "Toby" Daye, a half-human, half-fae changeling living in a Victorian-era San Francisco infused with faerie magic. Toby, a skilled spy and investigator, struggles to balance her human and fae lives, a conflict central to the novel's overarching theme of identity and belonging.

The main plot revolves around the murder of a powerful fae lord, and Toby's reluctant involvement in its investigation. She's drawn into the case when her former lover, a fae noble named Rhys, asks for her help. Rhys, despite their complicated history and his potentially deceitful nature, is a significant character, embodying the seductive allure and dangerous unpredictability of the fae world. Toby, initially hesitant due to her own complex feelings and the inherent risks, agrees to investigate, partially motivated by her loyalty to Rhys and partially by her desire for payment. This decision catapults her into a dangerous world of political intrigue, hidden agendas, and ancient fae magic.

The investigation leads Toby into the treacherous underbelly of faerie society, forcing her to confront her own vulnerabilities and the prejudices she faces as a half-fae. She utilizes her skills as a spy, navigating treacherous social dynamics within the fae court and the human world. She is aided by several key supporting characters, including her human friend, Jack, who provides invaluable assistance and grounding within the human realm, and various fae contacts whose loyalties are often questionable. These relationships add depth to the narrative, highlighting the challenges of navigating a world where trust is a scarce commodity.

As Toby investigates, she uncovers a web of deceit, betrayal, and long-standing feuds among the fae nobility. The murder mystery itself is cleverly interwoven with broader themes of power, manipulation, and the corrosive effects of prejudice. The true killer's identity and motivations are kept shrouded in mystery until the novel's climax, revealing a plot that extends far beyond the initial murder, touching upon centuries-old resentments and the precarious balance of power within the fae court. Toby’s investigation ultimately pushes her to confront not only the killer but also her own self-identity, blurring the lines between her human and fae sides and forcing her to choose her allegiance. The ending leaves Toby with the victory, but also a lingering sense of ambiguity and the unspoken promise of further conflicts in the fae world.