Tithe (Modern Faerie Tales, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Holly Black's "Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale" introduces us to Kaye, a teenage girl living a relatively normal life until she stumbles into the hidden world of the faeries. The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, blending the mundane with the magical, exploring the dangerous allure and unpredictable nature of the fae.

Kaye's life takes a dramatic turn when she witnesses a brutal murder committed by a faerie. This act draws the attention of Corny, a powerful, enigmatic faerie, who is both alluring and terrifying. Corny becomes increasingly involved in Kaye's life, making her feel both protected and threatened. Their relationship is complex, marked by a dangerous intimacy and a power imbalance inherent in their different worlds. Kaye finds herself bound to Corny by a sort of debt or obligation, a tithe owed for his protection and intervention, blurring the lines between friendship, manipulation, and something akin to love.

The other key character is Roach, a seemingly harmless but ultimately significant faerie who works as Corny's lackey. Roach acts as a foil to Corny, offering a different perspective on the faerie world and its dynamics. He reveals more of the underlying conflicts and politics within the fae community, showing that even within the magical realm, there's a complex social hierarchy with its own set of rules and dangers.

The main plot centers on Kaye's growing understanding of the faerie world and its impact on her own life. She navigates the treacherous terrain of fae society, learning its customs, its brutal realities, and the high stakes of crossing its borders. Her experiences are marked by a constant tension between the mundane and the fantastical, as she attempts to reconcile her normal life with the increasingly prominent role the faeries play in it.

Throughout the novel, themes of power, manipulation, and the consequences of choices are explored. Corny embodies the unpredictable and alluring nature of power, both captivating and terrifying Kaye with his manipulative charm. The fae world itself operates under its own rules, often cruel and arbitrary, demonstrating the consequences of engaging with a powerful, otherworldly force. Kaye's journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to navigate the complexities of her relationship with Corny and the faerie world, ultimately making choices that define her future and her relationship with the magical realm. The ambiguity of their connection, coupled with the unpredictable nature of the fae, leaves the reader questioning the true cost of the tithe Kaye pays.