Seven Endless Forests

Starred review from February 24, 2020
In this elegant YA fantasy inspired by Arthurian legend and ancient Norse culture, a young woman embarks upon a dangerous quest to rescue her sister, who’s been taken by a ruthless band of roving wolf-priests led by a power-hungry she-wolf. After softhearted Torvi, 18, loses both her mother and lover to a seasonal plague, all she has left is her restless younger sister, Morgunn. When Morgunn vanishes, Torvi and her new friend, the druid Gyda, join traveling entertainers the Butcher Bards, setting forth across a hazardous world populated by unpredictable characters and punctuated by weird magic, such as such as spells conveyed by fire, bones, or whistling. As they pursue the wolf-priests, who leave a trail of slaughter in their wake, Torvi and Gyda are drawn to a new quest: they search for a long-lost sword that could grant them great power and privilege. In this loose standalone follow-up to The Boneless Mercies, Tucholke conjures a mythic, richly described landscape that serves well as the backdrop for familiar names and concepts. The strong focus on found family and feminine strength further enhances this tale’s emotional impact. Ages 14–up. Agent: Tracey Adams, Adams Literary.

In this audiobook retelling of the King Arthur legend, narrated by Sophie Amoss, a young woman puts her life on the line to rescue her sister and find a mythical sword. This reverse-gender fantasy needs a strong and vibrant voice to embody Torvi, and Amoss brings her passion and courage to life. Amoss's narration draws listeners deep into this legendary tale, imbuing Druids, Elsh performers, and bloodthirsty villains with their unique characteristics. She uses cadence to influence the listener's experience, speeding up in moments of conflict and slowing down to illuminate moments of reflection. Her performance captures the magic of this story, allowing for a worthwhile listening experience. J.O. � AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine