Wednesday, February 28, 2018

The Wood by Chelsea Bobulski - OPTIONAL

Bobulski, Chelsea The Wood, 310 pgs. Feiwel and Friends, 2017. $18. Language: PG-13 (24 swears; no ‘F’); Mature Content: PG (mention of underage drinking); Violence: PG-13

The wood has existed longer than anyone can remember. The Old Ones understand its magic and power and the Guardians protect those who walk its paths. Winter Parrish is one of the guardians who now has the burden of guarding the wood and its travelers, those who have entered through thresholds from other times and need help getting back home. After centuries of peaceful existence, Winter’s father has vanished and the trees are dying. What sinister force has taken hold and can Winter, with the help of Henry an 18th century traveler from England, find out the truth before it is too late?

The premise of the book is unusual and intriguing. Unfortunately, the idea for the plot does not match the ability of the author. The beginning feels rushed as the reader is given a too brief introduction to what the Wood is and the roles of the Old Ones and Guardians. As a result, the reader will fail to make a significant connection to any of the characters throughout the story. The romance that develops to the surprise of no one, involving characters falling into once in a lifetime true love in a matter of moments, and with overly sentimental drivel that they indulge in, is cringe inducing. Add to this that the author has an odd fixation with including food and beverage in a majority of scenes explained in specific detail while the characters are given little to no description leaves the reader dissatisfied.

MS,HS—OPTIONAL AEB

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