Fire and Hemlock

"Fire and Hemlock" is a sophisticated modern fantasy for young adults, blending a contemporary coming-of-age narrative with deep roots in Anglo-Scottish folklore, specifically the ballads of "Tam Lin" and "Thomas the Rhymer." The story follows Polly Whittacker, who, at 19, realizes her memories are fractured, revealing a hidden past where she shared a profound, magical friendship with a man named Thomas Lynn. As Polly pieces together these fragmented recollections, she uncovers a sinister pact Tom made with the Queen of the Fairies, Laurel, and must embark on a perilous quest to save him. The book explores themes of identity, memory, love, and courage against a backdrop of complex family dynamics and an atmospheric, eerie supernatural world. It's a challenging and rewarding read for mature young adults.