The Poison Season

Outsiders are always given a choice: the Forest or the lake. Either way, they’re never heard from again.

The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford introduces us to Leelo, who has spent her entire life on Endla. This mystical place coexists with the bloodthirsty Forest and respects the poisonous lake that protects their island from outsiders who seek to destroy it. As much as Leelo cares for her community, she struggles to accept that her younger brother will be exiled by his next birthday unless he gains the magic of the enchanted song so vital to Endla.

When Leelo sees a young outsider on the verge of drowning in the lake, she knows exactly what she’s supposed to do. But in a moment that will change everything, Leelo betrays her family, her best friend, and Endla by making an unthinkable choice.

Discovery could lead to devastating consequences for both Leelo and the outsider, Jaren, but as they grow closer, Leelo realises that not all danger comes from beyond the lake. They can only survive if Leelo is willing to question the very fabric of her society, her people, and herself.