For readers who love intricate fantasy worlds and stories of siblings navigating dangerous secrets, this book explores bravery, loyalty, and facing the darkness within and without.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is drawn to dark, atmospheric fairy tales and is also navigating the complex dynamics of sibling relationships and self-identity. In the strange town of Fairfold, where humans live alongside dangerous fae, a horned boy has slept in a glass coffin for generations. When he wakes, siblings Hazel and Ben are drawn into an ancient conflict that forces them to confront the monster in the woods and the secrets they keep from each other. The story masterfully explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and self-acceptance, making it a great choice for older teens (13+). It uses its fantasy setting to explore real-world feelings about hiding parts of oneself and the fierce, protective love between siblings.
Kissing and romantic relationships are key subplots. Includes a central M/M relationship.
Substance ReferencesMild
Teens are shown drinking beer at a party in one scene.
Moral AmbiguityModerate
Characters make difficult and sometimes morally questionable choices out of love and desperation.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with identity, particularly Hazel's struggle with her violent, 'monstrous' side and Ben's identity as a gay young man. These are handled directly through character introspection and dialogue, but also metaphorically through the concept of fae magic and hidden natures. The approach is secular and the resolution is hopeful, championing self-acceptance. Violence is present but fantastical. A central M/M romance is treated as a natural and important part of the story.
Ideal Reader
A teen, 14-17, who loves dark, modern fantasy and twisted fairy tales. This reader appreciates complex sibling relationships and morally ambiguous characters. They might be grappling with feelings of being different or having a secret self they feel they must hide from the world. Perfect for a reader who just finished and loved "The Cruel Prince" or is a fan of atmospheric, character-driven fantasy.
Parent Prep
Parents should be aware of fantasy violence (sword fights, monster attacks) and mild underage drinking at a party. There are also romantic elements, including a prominent and sweet gay relationship. The book can be read cold, as its themes are deeply integrated into the plot and don't require external context, but a parent may want to be prepared to discuss the ideas of self-acceptance and embracing one's 'dark side'. A parent notices their teen feels like an outsider or expresses feeling like they have to hide parts of their personality to be accepted. The teen might say something like, "You don't know the real me," or show a fascination with stories about misunderstood monsters or anti-heroes.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely connect most with the thrilling plot, the monster-slaying action, the romance, and the magical world. An older teen (15-17) is more apt to appreciate the nuanced exploration of identity, sexuality, trauma, and the complex morality of the characters' choices. They will see the story as an allegory for self-acceptance.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many YA fantasies focused on a single 'chosen one', this book's strength is its dual-protagonist sibling dynamic. Its unique blend of a modern, mundane setting with ancient, dangerous fae lore feels distinctive. The core message that monstrosity and heroism can coexist within the same person provides a more complex and ultimately more comforting take on the 'good vs. evil' trope.
Read plot summary
In the town of Fairfold, where the fae-inhabited forest is a tourist attraction, siblings Hazel and Ben have grown up telling stories about the horned boy sleeping in a glass coffin. When the coffin is shattered and the boy, Severin, awakens, an ancient and monstrous evil is unleashed upon the town. Hazel, who secretly acts as a knight protecting the town, must team up with her brother Ben, who was given a magical gift by the fae, to stop the monster. Their quest forces them to confront dark bargains from their childhood and the secrets they've kept from everyone, including themselves.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Hazel believes she has to be a knight in secret. Why do you think she hides this part of herself from her family and friends? Do we all have parts of ourselves we choose to hide?
2
Ben made a bargain with the Folk that had a huge personal cost. Thinking about the different bargains in the book, what do you think the story says about sacrifice and consequences?
3
Jack is a changeling, caught between the human and fae worlds. How does his identity as a changeling affect his choices and his loyalty to Hazel and Ben?
4
The town of Fairfold treats the Folk as both a dangerous threat and a tourist attraction. How does this strange relationship shape the town and the story's main characters?
5
At the end, Severin chooses to give up his power over the forest to stay. Why do you think he makes this choice? What is the book saying about the difference between power and belonging?
