Written by Ashley Poston
Cerys is the royal’s family’s gardener’s daughter. In the Kingdom of Aloriya, the first king made a deal with the lady of the forest to protect the kingdom, but it came with a curse. When her mom and friends are taken by the wood, Cerys assumes they are dead. Years later, her last friend’s coronation is gate crashed by bone eaters, creatures of the forest. Forced to go on the run with the kingdom’s crown, Cerys soon discovers that she has the ability to heal people of the curse caused by the wood taking people. But it comes at a price, some of her blood must be spilled every time to do so. To break the curse once and for all, she and her animal companions, fox and bear, must find the Lady of the Wild. Hot on her trail is Prince Seren, her once friend now consumed by the wood. Can she save Aloriya and those she holds dear? Will she find it in her to stand up to Seren?
The plot is engaging, well-developed, and enjoyable. The characters are realistic and enchanting. The world building is masterfully done and brings Cery’s world to life. Fans of fantasy, folklore, and adventure will enjoy reading this book.
Reviewed by Kira Moody, Public Librarian and Olympus Jr. High Community Member
Review shared in January 2023
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 7-12
Among the Beasts and Briars
Written by Ashley Poston
Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers
338 pages
Release Date: October 20, 2020
ISBN: 9780062847362
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
