The Amber Owl

The Amber Owl by Juliet Marillier tells the story of Stasya, who resides in an isolated farming village on the edge of the enigmatic Heartwood Forest with her unusual dog for company. Although the locals regard her as odd, they tolerate her due to her rare gift with animals. Engaging with other humans is challenging for her, with the exception of goatherd Lukas, who shares her love of storytelling.

The tranquillity of Heartwood is disrupted when a group of soldiers arrive under orders from the Ruler of the Northlands. Their mission is to forge a path through the forest to uncover the legendary treasure believed to be hidden within. This harsh decree plunges Stasya's village into chaos. The task is clearly impossible, with the forest alive with bears and wolves, and old tales warning of evil spirits, monsters, and eerie beings. No one has ever ventured deep into Heartwood Forest and returned unscathed.

When Stasya protests, she is removed from her cherished home and taken to the court, a world utterly different from her own. Word of her special skills has reached the ears of the Ruler, and Lady Elisabeta has a task for her. Despite this, Stasya remains resolute in her vow to protect the forest, even in the face of grave danger. Unexpected assistance appears from an unlikely source.

Secrets are plentiful; threats lurk everywhere, and distinguishing friend from foe is no easy task. As Stasya and her team of unexpected allies embark on a hazardous mission, it becomes clear that supernatural forces may indeed be at play. Perhaps the old tales of the Hermit hold truth.