Queenswood
In 12th-century Ireland, the Queenswood forest stretches across both Earth and Faerie realms. Angus, the crown prince of Faerie, is given a prophecy that he must find a human bride to continue his family legacy. As his mother’s health fades, so too does the Queenswood. It is then he knows he cannot neglect his High Court responsibilities any longer.
After the wedding, Rhiannon sees how much her family’s tenants suffered for the wedding’s abundant feast. She wants to live a life that does not deprive the less fortunate and finds hope within Rosewood Abbey. While she will never be able to leave the abbey, she is able to bury herself in books and writing. But a chance meeting with an old man and his horse by the abbey’s well propels Rhiannon into a world of Faerie courts and high-stakes gambits.
Queenswood is a character-driven tale that effortlessly blends Irish folklore and historical reality. The setting is well-detailed, providing an immersive and loving depiction of nature. As the story progresses, Schwab ties in elements from the King Arthur and Robin Hood legends. The second half moves quickly while adding new character voices; however, each voice is unique and provides emotional and narrative texture. Readers can easily empathize with the gentle, thoughtful Rhiannon, who yearns for a life beyond the confines of an arranged marriage. Her growing bond with the Queenswood forest is especially compelling, granting her a quiet but powerful sense of agency amid forces beyond her control. The Faerie world has a rich history and is vividly brought to life. This is an enjoyable fantasy that is beautifully researched. I wish the latter half had been given more time to blossom, as so much unfolds in so little time. Even so, the book is thoroughly enchanting.
