Genres: Historical Fantasy, Fantasy, Epic Fantasy | Release Date: 25 February 2025 | Series: Heartwood | Series Book: #1 | Pages: 433 | Publisher: New Dawn | Review
“How long did it take for hope to die?“
Juliet Marillier
Overview:
A very big thank you goes to Juliet Marillier and New Dawn for sending me an ARC of The Amber Owl, book one in the Heartwood duology! And just so you know, to say I’m a fan of this historical fantasy is an understatement… But before I get too carried away, let’s give you an overview!
Stasya has never truly fit in with the people in her village, but as she’s more content wandering the Heartwood Forest in the company of her dog, Flip, this doesn’t worry her. When soldiers arrive in the village, chaos soon descends as the villagers learn that they want to cut their way through the forest for a fabled treasure; the Ruler of the Northlands doesn’t care who stands in the way. But the old tales have a kernel of truth in them… Spirits and monsters lurk in the forest, and none who venture into the heart of it have ever returned. Can Stasya find a way to save the forest? Is there anyone who can help her turn the tide against this destruction? And if there really are uncanny forces within the forest, are they friend or foe for a woman determined to protect the woods?
The beautiful forest dragon by Dirty Paws Australia loved it as much as I did.
Happiness Boost:
The Amber Owl highlights the complexities of humans, and the way a heart can be turned for good or bad. But we’re also treated to the voice of the forest, threaded throughout the entire tale. And to have that voice? To have the ancient trees and all who reside within the woods be given a chance to speak? I’m in love with how every moment within the forest is an invitation to rethink, to listen and learn. Stasya begins this as a lone voice, an eccentric woman who has a connection with animals. But as unlikely allies cropped up, the dread I felt in my heart turned to hope, and that’s an incredible feeling.
In this fantasy, Juliet masterfully reminds us of the power of stories. They have such a magic about them, and can help even the most disheartened of spirits. While Stasya’s journey gets ever darker, the stories she tells along the way are like little fireflies, giving a light that nothing can dim. They represent hope and love, grit and courage. We are the better for stories, and Stasya’s is a powerful one. I’m in awe of how easily Juliet gives us heavy emotions and whimsy in the same breath. Every single page has been both a delight and a revelation.
The Amber Owl is a fantasy of the highest calibre. And I don’t say that lightly, but Juliet Marillier is a truly exceptional author. This has been a wild adventure, full of tears, horror and so much love that I’m positively beaming with it. Am I being deliberately vague about what is inside this story? Absolutely, because I refuse to give spoilers. But let me tell you friends, I have well and truly fallen under the spell of The Amber Owl. I could go on, but what else is there to say except that it’s 5 stars of perfection?
Downside:
There is no downside with The Amber Owl!
Final Thoughts:
The Amber Owl by Juliet Marillier is an enchanting historical fantasy of uncanny magic, fierce spirits and a love for the natural world. I am honestly just so in love with this gorgeous book, and I can’t praise it highly enough. I really can’t. Words don’t do it justice! But if you love what you’ve heard from my review? Just click on either of the links below to grab a copy of this amazing book! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can order The Amber Owl via these links:
