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In the Heart of the Linden Wood
How do you overcome a broken heart?
For generations, the magic trees have supported the kingdom of Linden. The wood is prized in kingdoms everywhere for its special properties. It’s one of the few good things King Christopher inherited from his late father, the evil King Vincent.
Vincent also gifted Christopher a lack of confidence. The only person who believes in Christopher is Queen Lily. When he loses her and their only child, Christopher’s grief threatens to undo him. The love of his life has returned to the fates, and now all he wants to do is spend his days mourning her.
Then word comes that the trees are dying, and no one knows why.
Despite the urge to hide in the castle forever, Christopher meets the mysterious Keeper of the Wood to find out what’s killing the trees. The answer demands he go on a quest with old friends and new allies. Along the way, they’ll try to save hostages and mend another broken heart by putting it back together piece by piece.
Through it all, Christopher will fight to conquer his doubt and prove to his people, the memory of Lily, and himself that he deserves the crown.
For generations, the magic trees have supported the kingdom of Linden. The wood is prized in kingdoms everywhere for its special properties. It’s one of the few good things King Christopher inherited from his late father, the evil King Vincent.
Vincent also gifted Christopher a lack of confidence. The only person who believes in Christopher is Queen Lily. When he loses her and their only child, Christopher’s grief threatens to undo him. The love of his life has returned to the fates, and now all he wants to do is spend his days mourning her.
Then word comes that the trees are dying, and no one knows why.
Despite the urge to hide in the castle forever, Christopher meets the mysterious Keeper of the Wood to find out what’s killing the trees. The answer demands he go on a quest with old friends and new allies. Along the way, they’ll try to save hostages and mend another broken heart by putting it back together piece by piece.
Through it all, Christopher will fight to conquer his doubt and prove to his people, the memory of Lily, and himself that he deserves the crown.
- GenresFantasy
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2023
4 people are currently reading
1172 people want to read
About the author
Ekta R. Garg
15 books40 followersArmed with her MSJ in magazine publishing from Northwestern University, Ekta started her career in niche publishing in 2005 and has written and edited about everything from healthcare to home improvement to Hindi films. She became a freelance editor in 2011 and currently is a writing contest judge for the Florida Writers Association and the Saturday Writers chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild. Ekta also conducts writing workshops for her local library and hosts Biblio Breakdown, a podcast where she examines books to offer writing exercises.
Ekta began reviewing books for Bookpleasures.com in 2011 and reviews for them as well as her own site. She blogs at The Write Edge (http://thewriteedge.wordpress.com) and posts original writing, book reviews, and her adventures with the craft.
Her award-winning holiday novella, _The Truth About Elves_, and her original fairy tale for grownups, _In the Heart of the Linden Wood_, are available from Atmosphere Press.
Ekta began reviewing books for Bookpleasures.com in 2011 and reviews for them as well as her own site. She blogs at The Write Edge (http://thewriteedge.wordpress.com) and posts original writing, book reviews, and her adventures with the craft.
Her award-winning holiday novella, _The Truth About Elves_, and her original fairy tale for grownups, _In the Heart of the Linden Wood_, are available from Atmosphere Press.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 23, 2023
With a slow pace that makes this book easy to put on pause and then forget to pick it up again, it's a story about a widowed king mourning his wife lost to childbirth, and the magical wood in his kingdom that's getting rotted from its core out due to issues the guardian in charge is undergoing and that the monarch has to get involved in despite his overwhelming grief.
Whilst the magical wood is what attracted me in the first place, as I like the magical forest that is in danger from some magical rot trope, this book's take on it offers nothing we've not seen before. It's almost like a synthesis of all magical rotting woods plots we've seen before, so maybe the king's grief would've been the highlight, had it not been overshadowed by the other plotline. Christopher is a likable man, and it's not often that we see a male character in mourning for his beloved that doesn't end up with him finding quick consolation in some random pretty woman that comes into the plot to warm his bed and thaw his frozen heart, so I very much lament this plotline wasn't all that it could've been, as heartwrenching and soul-searching as it could've been.
I didn't care for the rest of the characters, to be honest, nor for the woods. Didn't care for the guardian of the woods, either, and the ending was the most predictable of all solutions ever. I really only wanted Christopher and his arc to shine! Alas, it wasn't to be. But I'm not completely disregarding this story only because of him. If you thought Cinnamon Roll Princes were a delight, well, here we had a Cinnamon Roll King, and he didn't get the story he deserved.
Let me mourn what could've been of this book now.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Whilst the magical wood is what attracted me in the first place, as I like the magical forest that is in danger from some magical rot trope, this book's take on it offers nothing we've not seen before. It's almost like a synthesis of all magical rotting woods plots we've seen before, so maybe the king's grief would've been the highlight, had it not been overshadowed by the other plotline. Christopher is a likable man, and it's not often that we see a male character in mourning for his beloved that doesn't end up with him finding quick consolation in some random pretty woman that comes into the plot to warm his bed and thaw his frozen heart, so I very much lament this plotline wasn't all that it could've been, as heartwrenching and soul-searching as it could've been.
I didn't care for the rest of the characters, to be honest, nor for the woods. Didn't care for the guardian of the woods, either, and the ending was the most predictable of all solutions ever. I really only wanted Christopher and his arc to shine! Alas, it wasn't to be. But I'm not completely disregarding this story only because of him. If you thought Cinnamon Roll Princes were a delight, well, here we had a Cinnamon Roll King, and he didn't get the story he deserved.
Let me mourn what could've been of this book now.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2023
This book held so much promise but unfortunately for me it did not deliver. A very slow burner but I stuck with it and it did get better. This is a story of grief, loss and forgiveness with a sprinkle of magic. I felt the two main characters Christopher and healer Geraldine were under developed and I really wanted to know about their back stories. All in all a good read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
February 2, 2023
In the Heart of Linden Wood, readers are introduced to the magical realm of Linden and a King called Christopher. Though Christophers life has been hard, when he became king and married his wife, things started to change for him and the realm. However, the issue in Linden, what the book is really about, are the problems that have arisen, that people are no longer happy, whether they be angry, grief stricken, or disappointed. Because, even when a good King reigns, problems left from a bad King and people’s individual issues still create issues that have not been corrected. And, it seems the very essences of the kingdom of Linden know it.
To make matters worse, when Christopher's Queen dies in childbirth and the child along with her, everything comes crashing down around the King and, because of this, spoils a few other lives along with his own. One of them, in fact, is the midwife, Geraldine, who had been with the Queen throughout her pregnancy. She was there to ensure the royal wife and her child are well cared for but even she could not stop what fates bode for the kingdom, though she tries her best. When her job comes to an end with disastrous results, the King orders her to surrender her healer's license and turns her home, without the pay she was promised and counted on.
From this point on, I had put down the book, taken a break, having other things to do. For some reason I can't put my finger on, this book felt comforting to me, each time I opened it, each time I read about what was going on in the kingdom of Linden. I just felt at home when I read it. At home in the world of Linden, with its characters. Many of them I didn't like, I thought were selfish and were lucky, in any form of government, to have the things they did have. Many were lucky not to lose their heads, the things they did and got away with. Because a major part of this storyline is dealing with loss, whatever form it comes in for the character. And those in Linden are all dealing with loss, some choosing not to handle it well as others.
For example there are several characters in the book that have experienced loss, experienced hardship, because of Christopers father, the last King and the bad man, the bad King that he was. Everyone, it seems, in the kingdom was, in some way, hurt by the King. Even his own son, Christopher. And, when the strife that reigned during his fathers time spills over into his reign, Christopher is caught between a "rock and a hard spot". (If I said it right, the saying itself). Because everywhere he looks King Christopher is suddenly running from and toward things, his life turned upside down and inside out, despite even the Queen and his child’s death. Poor Christopher cant even grieve in peace but, as he would have wallowed in it, probably even driven himself crazy, maybe the quest King Christopher finds himself to save the kingdom from its swift ruin, is a good thing. Well, a good thing if everything works out, in the end.
During the funeral procession for the queen, a mob lead by a common worker and family man named Lemuel, in not getting what was demand from the King, for they feel they have waited long enough and not been heard, take possession of the castle and those in it, including the parents of the now dead Queen, reigning royal themselves, Christophers in-laws. Because of this,they were unable to attend their daughter's burial. Fortunately, Christopher gets away only to find another issue, more demanding than the one at the castle. And, while Lemuel may have a point in his demands, the fact that he found himself swayed by others that had joined the party when marching to ask the King for what they felt owed, as Lemuel continues to rationalize actions that become more criminal by the moment, as he fancies himself a somewhat King in Christopher’s castle, if the man finds himself in a noose, at the end of the book, there will be no surprise (and, actually, part of me roots for hard punishment).
The fact remains however, that when Christopher lost his wife, the King may have acted too harshly on the midwife Geraldine, who couldn't have done anything more to save the Queen and had many problems of her own. When she was banished from court after the Queen's death, harshly treated by a court who didn't care that she cared for the Queen too, she returned to a demanding husband whom she planned on leaving. And now that she does not have the pay promised for all the time she spent at the castle during the Queen's pregnancy, she is stuck with her worry for the son they are made to share, that his issues are there in large part because of the life they have to share with a bad father and husband, who only makes demands and treats his wife and child harshly.
As everyone focuses on the things that happen in their own life and the bad way it has impacted them, they think nothing of anyone or anything going on in the world of Linden around them. So, when anything made of wood, which the kingdom is known for (and their main export and money maker, providing the kingdom with its very means of survival) disintegrates into dust, the most pressing issue in Linden needs to be dealt with. And, the only one, it seems, who can do anything to save Linden, is Geraldine’s odd, little boy, whom everyone always thought had a problem. Even the Keeper of the Wood has put themselves before their kingdom thinking only about their own needs, and Christopher must find a way to solve this problem before all the wood from Linden turns to dust. Even the trees may no longer live, if the problem is not solved.
In the Heart of Linden Wood is a story about the things that can happen when others focus on their own needs, over others. What should be the focus of one’s own heart? When people’s vision becomes so focused, tunneled, in a way, that they are no longer concerned with the world around them, anything else, the consequences that can come, when this happens can be disastrous. Ekta R. Garg has created a delightful fantasy realm in which one King, a former healer (who refused to listen to her orders), the King's guard who is a former orphan, along with Geraldines odd son have to go and find a way to save the kingdom before all is lost and it is too late. And, if they can even do that, will the King be able to take back his castle from Lemeul or will everything be lost in the Kingdom of Linden?
Find out, if you dare. But, as I have told you too much already, pick up the book and see for yourself, what will happen, in the end as the read is well worth it, the journey after, having new friends made. And Ekta R. Garg, a writer to watch, just to see the evolution of her writing, where it goes next, as this book, hopefully, the first of many.
To make matters worse, when Christopher's Queen dies in childbirth and the child along with her, everything comes crashing down around the King and, because of this, spoils a few other lives along with his own. One of them, in fact, is the midwife, Geraldine, who had been with the Queen throughout her pregnancy. She was there to ensure the royal wife and her child are well cared for but even she could not stop what fates bode for the kingdom, though she tries her best. When her job comes to an end with disastrous results, the King orders her to surrender her healer's license and turns her home, without the pay she was promised and counted on.
From this point on, I had put down the book, taken a break, having other things to do. For some reason I can't put my finger on, this book felt comforting to me, each time I opened it, each time I read about what was going on in the kingdom of Linden. I just felt at home when I read it. At home in the world of Linden, with its characters. Many of them I didn't like, I thought were selfish and were lucky, in any form of government, to have the things they did have. Many were lucky not to lose their heads, the things they did and got away with. Because a major part of this storyline is dealing with loss, whatever form it comes in for the character. And those in Linden are all dealing with loss, some choosing not to handle it well as others.
For example there are several characters in the book that have experienced loss, experienced hardship, because of Christopers father, the last King and the bad man, the bad King that he was. Everyone, it seems, in the kingdom was, in some way, hurt by the King. Even his own son, Christopher. And, when the strife that reigned during his fathers time spills over into his reign, Christopher is caught between a "rock and a hard spot". (If I said it right, the saying itself). Because everywhere he looks King Christopher is suddenly running from and toward things, his life turned upside down and inside out, despite even the Queen and his child’s death. Poor Christopher cant even grieve in peace but, as he would have wallowed in it, probably even driven himself crazy, maybe the quest King Christopher finds himself to save the kingdom from its swift ruin, is a good thing. Well, a good thing if everything works out, in the end.
During the funeral procession for the queen, a mob lead by a common worker and family man named Lemuel, in not getting what was demand from the King, for they feel they have waited long enough and not been heard, take possession of the castle and those in it, including the parents of the now dead Queen, reigning royal themselves, Christophers in-laws. Because of this,they were unable to attend their daughter's burial. Fortunately, Christopher gets away only to find another issue, more demanding than the one at the castle. And, while Lemuel may have a point in his demands, the fact that he found himself swayed by others that had joined the party when marching to ask the King for what they felt owed, as Lemuel continues to rationalize actions that become more criminal by the moment, as he fancies himself a somewhat King in Christopher’s castle, if the man finds himself in a noose, at the end of the book, there will be no surprise (and, actually, part of me roots for hard punishment).
The fact remains however, that when Christopher lost his wife, the King may have acted too harshly on the midwife Geraldine, who couldn't have done anything more to save the Queen and had many problems of her own. When she was banished from court after the Queen's death, harshly treated by a court who didn't care that she cared for the Queen too, she returned to a demanding husband whom she planned on leaving. And now that she does not have the pay promised for all the time she spent at the castle during the Queen's pregnancy, she is stuck with her worry for the son they are made to share, that his issues are there in large part because of the life they have to share with a bad father and husband, who only makes demands and treats his wife and child harshly.
As everyone focuses on the things that happen in their own life and the bad way it has impacted them, they think nothing of anyone or anything going on in the world of Linden around them. So, when anything made of wood, which the kingdom is known for (and their main export and money maker, providing the kingdom with its very means of survival) disintegrates into dust, the most pressing issue in Linden needs to be dealt with. And, the only one, it seems, who can do anything to save Linden, is Geraldine’s odd, little boy, whom everyone always thought had a problem. Even the Keeper of the Wood has put themselves before their kingdom thinking only about their own needs, and Christopher must find a way to solve this problem before all the wood from Linden turns to dust. Even the trees may no longer live, if the problem is not solved.
In the Heart of Linden Wood is a story about the things that can happen when others focus on their own needs, over others. What should be the focus of one’s own heart? When people’s vision becomes so focused, tunneled, in a way, that they are no longer concerned with the world around them, anything else, the consequences that can come, when this happens can be disastrous. Ekta R. Garg has created a delightful fantasy realm in which one King, a former healer (who refused to listen to her orders), the King's guard who is a former orphan, along with Geraldines odd son have to go and find a way to save the kingdom before all is lost and it is too late. And, if they can even do that, will the King be able to take back his castle from Lemeul or will everything be lost in the Kingdom of Linden?
Find out, if you dare. But, as I have told you too much already, pick up the book and see for yourself, what will happen, in the end as the read is well worth it, the journey after, having new friends made. And Ekta R. Garg, a writer to watch, just to see the evolution of her writing, where it goes next, as this book, hopefully, the first of many.
June 7, 2023
In Ekta R. Garg’s “In the Heart of the Linden Wood,” King Christopher, along with the whole kingdom of Linden, loses their beloved queen and infant heir to the throne. King Christopher plunges into his grief, letting bitterness and grief squeeze his heart until only a spoiled, angry shell remains. On top of these searing losses, the pride of Linden, its trees, begin to lose their magic. When a surprise coup rips Christopher from his brooding, he is pushed toward a quest to restore the trees’ magic with the unlikeliest of companions, including the last person in the world that he wants to see—the person he holds responsible for ruining his life.
Ekta R. Garg has taken her time to produce a work worthy of being in every library. It is extremely refreshing to read an adult fantasy novel that is not intense or overly filled with far-fetched fantasy elements. Christopher’s story is dusted with just the right amount; it is exactly what you want in a fairy tale. Though “In the Heart of Linden Wood” is only her second book, Ekta R. Garg is a great writer; she has produced an exceptionally well-written and well-edited fantasy novel. She has thought of nearly everything important and provided just the right amount of detail. She includes realistic elements such as royal protocols and descriptive treatments of wounds. Many authors make the mistake of glossing over the small details, but nothing about the author’s writing style or storyline appears rushed.
There is one thing that is hard to grasp, and whether Ekta R. Garg has done it deliberately or not is anyone’s guess. Though the king suffers two incredible losses, all of his thoughts turn to one, and the other is barely acknowledged. It’s surprising. This could be intentional, as perhaps she is trying to show that Christopher is too overcome by one loss to allow himself to think about the other (which could make sense), or it could be a simple lack of forethought. In either case, it does not bear great weight on the story’s quality but is merely an observation of Christopher’s character.
From its captivating and dreamy cover art to its enchanting storyline, “In the Heart of the Linden Wood” by Ekta R. Garg is an excellent work that I would recommend to any fiction reader. After reading the last pages, readers will be left with pleasant feelings. After all, every fairy tale should have a happily-ever-after.
Ekta R. Garg has taken her time to produce a work worthy of being in every library. It is extremely refreshing to read an adult fantasy novel that is not intense or overly filled with far-fetched fantasy elements. Christopher’s story is dusted with just the right amount; it is exactly what you want in a fairy tale. Though “In the Heart of Linden Wood” is only her second book, Ekta R. Garg is a great writer; she has produced an exceptionally well-written and well-edited fantasy novel. She has thought of nearly everything important and provided just the right amount of detail. She includes realistic elements such as royal protocols and descriptive treatments of wounds. Many authors make the mistake of glossing over the small details, but nothing about the author’s writing style or storyline appears rushed.
There is one thing that is hard to grasp, and whether Ekta R. Garg has done it deliberately or not is anyone’s guess. Though the king suffers two incredible losses, all of his thoughts turn to one, and the other is barely acknowledged. It’s surprising. This could be intentional, as perhaps she is trying to show that Christopher is too overcome by one loss to allow himself to think about the other (which could make sense), or it could be a simple lack of forethought. In either case, it does not bear great weight on the story’s quality but is merely an observation of Christopher’s character.
From its captivating and dreamy cover art to its enchanting storyline, “In the Heart of the Linden Wood” by Ekta R. Garg is an excellent work that I would recommend to any fiction reader. After reading the last pages, readers will be left with pleasant feelings. After all, every fairy tale should have a happily-ever-after.
January 3, 2023
I received this ARC in exchange from the publisher for an honest review.
My heart was just was not in the Linden Wood.
"In the Heart of the Linden Wood" is a historical fantasy based in the aforementioned Linden Wood and its kingdom. A King loses his wife to miscarriage and fires the healer responsible for the Queen's care. The story unfolds between the King's grief, a sickening woods that surrounds it and aids in the industry of the kingdom, and the healer's defiance to let the inevitable death of the Queen to stop her from her calling.
Thumbs up: The cover is absolutely gorgeous, the characters motivations were clear, and there are parts within that certainly tug at the heartstrings.
Thumbs down: The storyline does not offer anything revolutionary in the world of fantasy. I found the plot was a bit hard to find once the story started to pick up which made it difficult to remain invested throughout. It is quite dialogue heavy but didn't feel like it moved the story along at all.
Was it a nail biter? No, it was a bit middle of the road for me but I think the author has a lot of promise in the fantasy genre once they add a bit more of a hook to their plot.
My heart was just was not in the Linden Wood.
"In the Heart of the Linden Wood" is a historical fantasy based in the aforementioned Linden Wood and its kingdom. A King loses his wife to miscarriage and fires the healer responsible for the Queen's care. The story unfolds between the King's grief, a sickening woods that surrounds it and aids in the industry of the kingdom, and the healer's defiance to let the inevitable death of the Queen to stop her from her calling.
Thumbs up: The cover is absolutely gorgeous, the characters motivations were clear, and there are parts within that certainly tug at the heartstrings.
Thumbs down: The storyline does not offer anything revolutionary in the world of fantasy. I found the plot was a bit hard to find once the story started to pick up which made it difficult to remain invested throughout. It is quite dialogue heavy but didn't feel like it moved the story along at all.
Was it a nail biter? No, it was a bit middle of the road for me but I think the author has a lot of promise in the fantasy genre once they add a bit more of a hook to their plot.
March 5, 2023
It would have been a 5 star book if it had been carved in another way...because it was in the last 30% of the book that the story captivated me the least.
This is the story of a kingdom called Linden, whose main source of income for that people is the magic wood that comes from the trees of that place. The current king has to pay the price of his father's wickedness, who had also mistreated him in childhood, removing all his self-esteem in reigning in the future. It was after marrying Lily that everything changed, with her he learned how he was capable of being more and better.
There are wonderful and special characters like Healer Geraldine and her son Alistair, Guardmaster Martin, and the King's in-laws. However, I couldn't sympathize with the king, and I only really liked him in the last 5% of the book.
The story had all the elements to be a wonderful and incredible story and it has very good messages and values to pass on, which unfortunately were lost a little by the way the author wrote this book.
This is the story of a kingdom called Linden, whose main source of income for that people is the magic wood that comes from the trees of that place. The current king has to pay the price of his father's wickedness, who had also mistreated him in childhood, removing all his self-esteem in reigning in the future. It was after marrying Lily that everything changed, with her he learned how he was capable of being more and better.
There are wonderful and special characters like Healer Geraldine and her son Alistair, Guardmaster Martin, and the King's in-laws. However, I couldn't sympathize with the king, and I only really liked him in the last 5% of the book.
The story had all the elements to be a wonderful and incredible story and it has very good messages and values to pass on, which unfortunately were lost a little by the way the author wrote this book.
January 25, 2023
What a beautiful unexpected surprise this story was…A story that weaves real life themes into a fairytale setting and you are immersed into the magical Kingdom of Linden.
Genre: Fantasy
Summary: There is a King,, there is a magic forest, and their is a Kingdom. The Kingdom is recovering from the tyrannical reign of King Vincent and now it is up to his son King Christopher to restore the reputation of the monarchy to its people. He was a victim of the Kings tyranny as a child and finds solace in his bride, Queen Lilly. The magic forest is made up of the Linden Wood, this would has supported the kingdom for generations. All at once tragedy strikes the hearts of the king and his people when he loses his Queen and his child during childbirth. Word also comes that the Linden Wood that is coveted for its magic properties, is dying. No one knows the cause. The King, despite his grief has no choice but to seek answers. With the help of some very unlikely characters, he sets off to find answers. Will the forest heal, will the kingdom rally behind the king and will the kings’ broken heart heal? You won’t be able to stop reading to find out.
Pace: Slow
This is truly a fairytale setting and a fairytale story with very real life themes. Insecurities, needing approval, troubled marriages, loss, grief, responsibilities, finding your purpose and doing what it right even when it comes at a personal cost. I started reading this book yesterday and finished it within 24 hours. I very rarely do that with this type of read. I found myself so invested in the characters and their crossing paths, that I had to finish. The pacing was a perfect combination of slow character building moments and quickened escalation during the plot driven moments. The writing is beautiful and visual. My only criticism for this story is the length of the book that was used to over the Kings Loss. It felt a big long…
Although this book is a fantasy read, the characters feel more human to me than any other fantasy I’ve read.. If you enjoy very relatable fiction with a mix of fairytale whimsy… YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley and Atmosphere Press, thanks you!
Genre: Fantasy
Summary: There is a King,, there is a magic forest, and their is a Kingdom. The Kingdom is recovering from the tyrannical reign of King Vincent and now it is up to his son King Christopher to restore the reputation of the monarchy to its people. He was a victim of the Kings tyranny as a child and finds solace in his bride, Queen Lilly. The magic forest is made up of the Linden Wood, this would has supported the kingdom for generations. All at once tragedy strikes the hearts of the king and his people when he loses his Queen and his child during childbirth. Word also comes that the Linden Wood that is coveted for its magic properties, is dying. No one knows the cause. The King, despite his grief has no choice but to seek answers. With the help of some very unlikely characters, he sets off to find answers. Will the forest heal, will the kingdom rally behind the king and will the kings’ broken heart heal? You won’t be able to stop reading to find out.
Pace: Slow
This is truly a fairytale setting and a fairytale story with very real life themes. Insecurities, needing approval, troubled marriages, loss, grief, responsibilities, finding your purpose and doing what it right even when it comes at a personal cost. I started reading this book yesterday and finished it within 24 hours. I very rarely do that with this type of read. I found myself so invested in the characters and their crossing paths, that I had to finish. The pacing was a perfect combination of slow character building moments and quickened escalation during the plot driven moments. The writing is beautiful and visual. My only criticism for this story is the length of the book that was used to over the Kings Loss. It felt a big long…
Although this book is a fantasy read, the characters feel more human to me than any other fantasy I’ve read.. If you enjoy very relatable fiction with a mix of fairytale whimsy… YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley and Atmosphere Press, thanks you!
February 9, 2023
A slower paced read with a very pretty, descriptive writing style
August 27, 2025
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“In the Heart of the Linden Wood” is a novel written by Ekta R. Garg, a novel that deserves a three star rating. The author had the ability to control a reader’s emotions and imagination while weaving a story with intricate details and a beautiful environment.
One of the reasons that the book can not be given a four star or five star rating is due to its lack of world building. The author Ekta R. Garg did not create a world that one could imagine fully, not at first anyways. The world was beautiful and the writing had wonderful descriptions of the scenery. Unfortunately, that is all that it had. We, the reader, did not get to experience the history of the world or anything beyond the focal point of the story, that being the magical trees (as listed in the synopsis of the book).
The second reason that the book cannot be given a four or five star rating is because of the novel’s predictability. Readers should not be able to figure out the end of the story at the halfway point of the novel. Unfortunately, I did figure out the ending of the story by the time I had read half of the book.
The final reason why the book cannot be given a four or five star rating is due to the way characters were introduced to the story. There was a new character almost every chapter, and it felt jarring. It started becoming hard to keep up with the characters and understand who they were, and why they were being included. It took reading three to four pages of each new chapter that included a brand new character before I could begin to understand who this character was and why they had been added.
However, this book deserves a solid three stars because of the author’s ability to create emotion. Ekta R. Garg has a talent that lies in displaying raw emotion to the reader. After reading a quarter of the book, I had already cried twice. The book was moving my heart and soul, and by the end of the book I had cried a total of three times. Ekta R. Garg has an amazing ability to represent a character and their emotions.
Finally, this book deserves three stars because of the suspense that enthralls you within the book. There were multiple times that I forced myself to read faster so that I could find out what happened sooner. It is because of this suspense that I could not put the book down. I finished this book within a day and a half and enjoyed every minute of it.
I would highly recommend “In the Heart of the Linden Wood” to every single one of my friends and family. Ekta R. Garg is an amazing author who deserves to be known for their amazing skills in displaying raw emotion.
“In the Heart of the Linden Wood” is a novel written by Ekta R. Garg, a novel that deserves a three star rating. The author had the ability to control a reader’s emotions and imagination while weaving a story with intricate details and a beautiful environment.
One of the reasons that the book can not be given a four star or five star rating is due to its lack of world building. The author Ekta R. Garg did not create a world that one could imagine fully, not at first anyways. The world was beautiful and the writing had wonderful descriptions of the scenery. Unfortunately, that is all that it had. We, the reader, did not get to experience the history of the world or anything beyond the focal point of the story, that being the magical trees (as listed in the synopsis of the book).
The second reason that the book cannot be given a four or five star rating is because of the novel’s predictability. Readers should not be able to figure out the end of the story at the halfway point of the novel. Unfortunately, I did figure out the ending of the story by the time I had read half of the book.
The final reason why the book cannot be given a four or five star rating is due to the way characters were introduced to the story. There was a new character almost every chapter, and it felt jarring. It started becoming hard to keep up with the characters and understand who they were, and why they were being included. It took reading three to four pages of each new chapter that included a brand new character before I could begin to understand who this character was and why they had been added.
However, this book deserves a solid three stars because of the author’s ability to create emotion. Ekta R. Garg has a talent that lies in displaying raw emotion to the reader. After reading a quarter of the book, I had already cried twice. The book was moving my heart and soul, and by the end of the book I had cried a total of three times. Ekta R. Garg has an amazing ability to represent a character and their emotions.
Finally, this book deserves three stars because of the suspense that enthralls you within the book. There were multiple times that I forced myself to read faster so that I could find out what happened sooner. It is because of this suspense that I could not put the book down. I finished this book within a day and a half and enjoyed every minute of it.
I would highly recommend “In the Heart of the Linden Wood” to every single one of my friends and family. Ekta R. Garg is an amazing author who deserves to be known for their amazing skills in displaying raw emotion.
February 13, 2024
This is a story with a gut wrenching beginning. The story is full of emotional moments and a rich world building. It’s a slower story but it has action, dynamic characters, political issues, and friendships.
In the Heart of the Linden Woods
Publication Date: February 2023
Genre: Adult Fantasy/ Fairy Tale
How do you overcome a broken heart?
For generations, the magic trees have supported the kingdom of Linden. The wood is prized in kingdoms everywhere for its special properties. It’s one of the few good things King Christopher inherited from his late father, the evil King Vincent.
Vincent also gifted Christopher a lack of confidence. The only person who believes in Christopher is Queen Lily. When he loses her and their only child, Christopher’s grief threatens to undo him. The love of his life has returned to the fates, and now all he wants to do is spend his days mourning her.
Then word comes that the trees are dying, and no one knows why.
Despite the urge to hide in the castle forever, Christopher meets the mysterious Keeper of the Wood to find out what’s killing the trees. The answer demands he go on a quest with old friends and new allies. Along the way, they’ll try to save hostages and mend another broken heart by putting it back together piece by piece.
Through it all, Christopher will fight to conquer his doubt and prove to his people, the memory of Lily, and himself that he deserves the crown.
Available Here & Amazon
About the Author
Since starting in niche publishing in 2005, Ekta has written and edited about everything from healthcare to home improvement to Hindi films. She became a freelance editor in 2011 to cement her essential belief that words can change people and the world. A writing contest judge, podcaster, and reviewer, Ekta blogs original fiction, book reviews, and parenting adventures from The Write Edge.
Ekta G. Garg
IG: @ektargarg @rrbooktours
#rrbooktours #rrbtintheheartofthelindenwood #intheheartofthelindenwood #fantasybooks #adultfantasy #fairytales #fantasyreads #fantasyreaders
In the Heart of the Linden Woods
Publication Date: February 2023
Genre: Adult Fantasy/ Fairy Tale
How do you overcome a broken heart?
For generations, the magic trees have supported the kingdom of Linden. The wood is prized in kingdoms everywhere for its special properties. It’s one of the few good things King Christopher inherited from his late father, the evil King Vincent.
Vincent also gifted Christopher a lack of confidence. The only person who believes in Christopher is Queen Lily. When he loses her and their only child, Christopher’s grief threatens to undo him. The love of his life has returned to the fates, and now all he wants to do is spend his days mourning her.
Then word comes that the trees are dying, and no one knows why.
Despite the urge to hide in the castle forever, Christopher meets the mysterious Keeper of the Wood to find out what’s killing the trees. The answer demands he go on a quest with old friends and new allies. Along the way, they’ll try to save hostages and mend another broken heart by putting it back together piece by piece.
Through it all, Christopher will fight to conquer his doubt and prove to his people, the memory of Lily, and himself that he deserves the crown.
Available Here & Amazon
About the Author
Since starting in niche publishing in 2005, Ekta has written and edited about everything from healthcare to home improvement to Hindi films. She became a freelance editor in 2011 to cement her essential belief that words can change people and the world. A writing contest judge, podcaster, and reviewer, Ekta blogs original fiction, book reviews, and parenting adventures from The Write Edge.
Ekta G. Garg
IG: @ektargarg @rrbooktours
#rrbooktours #rrbtintheheartofthelindenwood #intheheartofthelindenwood #fantasybooks #adultfantasy #fairytales #fantasyreads #fantasyreaders
August 3, 2024
I enjoyed reading "In the Heart of Linden Wood" by Ekta R. Garg. It's a captivating fantasy novel that takes you on a journey to the enchanting kingdom of Linden. The story revolves around King Christopher, who inherits a kingdom renowned for its magical wood, which cannot be used for weapons or ill intentions. However, the kingdom faces turmoil as the magic preserving the trees falters, and an unknown disease spreads through the forest.
What I Loved:
Rich World-Building: Garg's vivid descriptions bring the kingdom of Linden to life. The magical wood, the ancient trees, and the mystical elements are beautifully crafted, creating an immersive reading experience.
Character Development: King Christopher's journey from a grieving husband to a determined leader is compelling. His internal struggles and growth are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The supporting characters, including the healer Geraldine and her son, add layers to the narrative.
Themes of Redemption and Legacy: The novel explores profound themes such as redemption, the burden of legacy, and the struggle to overcome past mistakes. Christopher's efforts to redeem his father's ruthless reign and restore the kingdom's magic are central to the plot.
Areas for Improvement:
Pacing: While the story engages, some sections could benefit from tighter pacing. Certain scenes, especially those involving exposition, slow down the narrative.
Loose Ends: A few plot points, such as the conflict resolution with Lemuel and Celia's wish at the wishing well, feel unresolved. Addressing these would enhance the overall coherence of the story.
Final Thoughts:
"In the Heart of Linden Wood" is a beautifully written fantasy novel that weaves together magic, mystery, and emotional depth. Ekta R. Garg's storytelling prowess shines through, making this book a delightful read for fans of the genre. Despite minor flaws, the novel's rich world-building and compelling character arcs make it a memorable journey into the heart of Linden.
I hope you enjoy your adventure in the magical kingdom of Linden!
What I Loved:
Rich World-Building: Garg's vivid descriptions bring the kingdom of Linden to life. The magical wood, the ancient trees, and the mystical elements are beautifully crafted, creating an immersive reading experience.
Character Development: King Christopher's journey from a grieving husband to a determined leader is compelling. His internal struggles and growth are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The supporting characters, including the healer Geraldine and her son, add layers to the narrative.
Themes of Redemption and Legacy: The novel explores profound themes such as redemption, the burden of legacy, and the struggle to overcome past mistakes. Christopher's efforts to redeem his father's ruthless reign and restore the kingdom's magic are central to the plot.
Areas for Improvement:
Pacing: While the story engages, some sections could benefit from tighter pacing. Certain scenes, especially those involving exposition, slow down the narrative.
Loose Ends: A few plot points, such as the conflict resolution with Lemuel and Celia's wish at the wishing well, feel unresolved. Addressing these would enhance the overall coherence of the story.
Final Thoughts:
"In the Heart of Linden Wood" is a beautifully written fantasy novel that weaves together magic, mystery, and emotional depth. Ekta R. Garg's storytelling prowess shines through, making this book a delightful read for fans of the genre. Despite minor flaws, the novel's rich world-building and compelling character arcs make it a memorable journey into the heart of Linden.
I hope you enjoy your adventure in the magical kingdom of Linden!
February 12, 2023
King Christopher has a broken heart. Instead of celebrating the birth of an heir, instead both is beloved wife, Queen Lily, and their child, who drew not a single breath, are taken by the fates. In his grief, Christopher withers in lonely agony. He cannot even bring himself to leave the castle to attend the funeral procession. But Christohper is not the only one whose heart is breaking. Geraldine, the Healer who had been responsible for the birth of his child and the care of Queen Lily, is stripped of her badge and banished back to her home town, though the deaths of the royals are through no fault of her own. Her son, Alistair, is largely non-verbal, but highly intelligent and loving, and who suffers ridicule from other children. Then there is Lemuel, who for years now has been fighting to obtain the earnings owed his family which the previous King Vincent wrongfully withheld. How much heartbreak does it take to break the very heart of an entire kingdom? Linden is known for its magical lumber. When a mysterious disease starts causing the magic of the wood to fail, the whole kingdom is put in jeopardy.
In the Heart of the Linden Wood is a story about overcoming our own heartaches to stay true to our obligations not only to ourselves, but to our communities, loved ones and world at large. While set in a fantasy world, the trials and tribulations of that world are as real as the trees outside my own window. The strength of a community is shown in how it rebounds and rebuilds after a hardship. For Linden, the deaths of Queen Lily and the royal heir make for a backdrop through which we see Christopher, Geraldine and others endure the aftermath of their loss. Especially evident is the lesson that sometimes our actions betray even our best intentions. Christopher strives to be the opposite of what his tyrant father was as a King. Still, his life of privilege has still made him blind to some of the suffers of those less fortunate than he, and he has to learn to understand that what he puts forth as being best for the kingdom might actually only be what’s best for the few. When he sets out with Geraldine, her son and his trusted friend, Sir Martin, to save the Linden Wood, he learns that being the King he strives to be means acting with consideration, rather than haste, and taking the time to listen to ideas we may not want to hear. As a ruler, he learns that he has to discern between his instincts to protect himself from further suffering from his instincts to protect his people.
Similarly, Lemuel and the revolutionaries that storm the castle may have a noble goal: they seek to be paid what they are owed. Instead of peaceful negotiation and strategic action, however, their desperation leads them to commit treasonous acts, including putting the royal family and Councilors in shackles. In Lemuel, we see the dangers of allowing our own conflicts to spill over and blind us to the conflicts of others around us. We also see what happens when rash decisions, while intending to resolve said conflict, actually can lead to making it worse, instead.
In the Heart of the Linden Wood was slightly slow to start, but the poignant lesson and morals contained within the book, along with the heartfelt, relevant plights of the different characters combined to form a wholesome, exciting and worthwhile read.
In the Heart of the Linden Wood is a story about overcoming our own heartaches to stay true to our obligations not only to ourselves, but to our communities, loved ones and world at large. While set in a fantasy world, the trials and tribulations of that world are as real as the trees outside my own window. The strength of a community is shown in how it rebounds and rebuilds after a hardship. For Linden, the deaths of Queen Lily and the royal heir make for a backdrop through which we see Christopher, Geraldine and others endure the aftermath of their loss. Especially evident is the lesson that sometimes our actions betray even our best intentions. Christopher strives to be the opposite of what his tyrant father was as a King. Still, his life of privilege has still made him blind to some of the suffers of those less fortunate than he, and he has to learn to understand that what he puts forth as being best for the kingdom might actually only be what’s best for the few. When he sets out with Geraldine, her son and his trusted friend, Sir Martin, to save the Linden Wood, he learns that being the King he strives to be means acting with consideration, rather than haste, and taking the time to listen to ideas we may not want to hear. As a ruler, he learns that he has to discern between his instincts to protect himself from further suffering from his instincts to protect his people.
Similarly, Lemuel and the revolutionaries that storm the castle may have a noble goal: they seek to be paid what they are owed. Instead of peaceful negotiation and strategic action, however, their desperation leads them to commit treasonous acts, including putting the royal family and Councilors in shackles. In Lemuel, we see the dangers of allowing our own conflicts to spill over and blind us to the conflicts of others around us. We also see what happens when rash decisions, while intending to resolve said conflict, actually can lead to making it worse, instead.
In the Heart of the Linden Wood was slightly slow to start, but the poignant lesson and morals contained within the book, along with the heartfelt, relevant plights of the different characters combined to form a wholesome, exciting and worthwhile read.
February 11, 2024
The cover photo іs everything. It іs just gorgeous and stunning. I was sо drawn tо it. In the Heart оf the Linden Wood by Ekta R. Garg іs a fantasy novel that explores the themes оf grief, love, and courage. The story follows King Christopher, who loses his wife and child and falls into despair. He must find a way tо overcome his sorrow and save his kingdom from a mysterious threat that іs killing the magic trees that sustain it.
The book's plot іs engaging and well-paced, with a mix оf action, adventure, and emotion. The author creates a vivid and enchanting world оf magic and mystery, where the trees have special properties and the fates have a hand іn everything. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own struggles and strengths. Christopher іs a sympathetic protagonist, who grows from a broken-hearted king tо a brave and compassionate leader.
The writing style іs clear and elegant, with a smooth and consistent tone. The author uses descriptive language and imagery tо bring the scenes tо life and convey the emotions оf the characters. The dialogue іs natural and realistic, with a touch оf humor and wit. The overall impact іs positive and uplifting, as іt shows the power оf love, hope, and courage tо overcome adversity and heal a broken heart. It іs suitable for readers оf all ages, who enjoy fantasy, romance, and adventure.
The book's plot іs engaging and well-paced, with a mix оf action, adventure, and emotion. The author creates a vivid and enchanting world оf magic and mystery, where the trees have special properties and the fates have a hand іn everything. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each with their own struggles and strengths. Christopher іs a sympathetic protagonist, who grows from a broken-hearted king tо a brave and compassionate leader.
The writing style іs clear and elegant, with a smooth and consistent tone. The author uses descriptive language and imagery tо bring the scenes tо life and convey the emotions оf the characters. The dialogue іs natural and realistic, with a touch оf humor and wit. The overall impact іs positive and uplifting, as іt shows the power оf love, hope, and courage tо overcome adversity and heal a broken heart. It іs suitable for readers оf all ages, who enjoy fantasy, romance, and adventure.
July 24, 2023
Reading a retold Fairy gives twice the joy as the original story Like almost all fairy tales. "In the Heart of the Linden Wood" by Ektra R.Garg there is a king and queen, the kingdom and an heir. In this instance, Queen Lily has trouble during childbirth. The Healing Midwife is there with her every moment. Queen Lily''s character is so real that I found myself breathing and straining with her. Finally, her labor is over
Geraldine is the healing midwife. She is with Queen Lily every moment. She is willing to do anything to help. to put the novel down is impossible. King Christopher is struggling with the usual troubles that worry a monarch. Now, there is Queen Lily's troubles that concern him. Unfortunately,he makes a judgement against Geraldine. Because of his decision her world is turned upside down. Out of his head, the King lays all the blame on Geraldine who only wants the best for he and the queen.
This is an emotional ride for everybody. Surely, this will make a good book for a book club.. Yes, it is a tearjerker. .One thing for sure is that this Fantasy will not bore you. Men and women will find themselves reliving their childhood and rethinking decisions. Remember all the happily ever afters?
Geraldine is the healing midwife. She is with Queen Lily every moment. She is willing to do anything to help. to put the novel down is impossible. King Christopher is struggling with the usual troubles that worry a monarch. Now, there is Queen Lily's troubles that concern him. Unfortunately,he makes a judgement against Geraldine. Because of his decision her world is turned upside down. Out of his head, the King lays all the blame on Geraldine who only wants the best for he and the queen.
This is an emotional ride for everybody. Surely, this will make a good book for a book club.. Yes, it is a tearjerker. .One thing for sure is that this Fantasy will not bore you. Men and women will find themselves reliving their childhood and rethinking decisions. Remember all the happily ever afters?
March 16, 2024
The story was about magical wood that was dying and the characters must travel to find a way to restore the wood. But we didn’t get to this problem until 50% of the book, spending way too much time on politics that had no point to the plot.
The first few chapters, however, showed us the grief of the king who’s lost the woman he loved and his unborn child. The writing was brilliant and had me tearing up for King Christopher a lot of times. The author has done an incredible job at showing us the pain he felt.
The way he shut down after it felt like his entire world upended was heart wrenching to watch. The way people around him supported him was beautiful. The support system he had around him was given the importance it deserves.
Christopher was the only character I cared about in the entire story. I didn’t care for the other characters or the woods, tbh. There were many events that didn’t make sense, events overlooked and the ending was lackluster. There is a hostage situation but it didn’t lead anywhere and ended abruptly without any solution.
The way the story ended felt rushed and incomplete. I have so many questions about so many events in this book.
Thank you to the author and RR Book Tours for the copy to review.
The first few chapters, however, showed us the grief of the king who’s lost the woman he loved and his unborn child. The writing was brilliant and had me tearing up for King Christopher a lot of times. The author has done an incredible job at showing us the pain he felt.
The way he shut down after it felt like his entire world upended was heart wrenching to watch. The way people around him supported him was beautiful. The support system he had around him was given the importance it deserves.
Christopher was the only character I cared about in the entire story. I didn’t care for the other characters or the woods, tbh. There were many events that didn’t make sense, events overlooked and the ending was lackluster. There is a hostage situation but it didn’t lead anywhere and ended abruptly without any solution.
The way the story ended felt rushed and incomplete. I have so many questions about so many events in this book.
Thank you to the author and RR Book Tours for the copy to review.
February 8, 2024
This story for King Christopher is one of overcoming past hurt, dealing with present grief, and looking to the future for the good of his people of the kingdom of Linden. I admired his determination to lead his people with fairness, kindness, and integrity—unlike his father, whose tyrannical and selfish rule hurt Linden more than helped.
It’s truly a team effort between Christopher and his companions as Christopher needs to show those who doubt his ability to rule that he is meant to be upon the throne, while also figuring out why the Linden wood is losing its magic and how to fix it.
I enjoyed the author’s descriptive and creative writing style as well as the involvement of each character. Each character truly had an important part to play. I also enjoyed the feel of ambient magic prevalent throughout the story!
It’s truly a team effort between Christopher and his companions as Christopher needs to show those who doubt his ability to rule that he is meant to be upon the throne, while also figuring out why the Linden wood is losing its magic and how to fix it.
I enjoyed the author’s descriptive and creative writing style as well as the involvement of each character. Each character truly had an important part to play. I also enjoyed the feel of ambient magic prevalent throughout the story!
May 24, 2025
Ekta Garg’s fantasy questing venture has a lot to love for those who like castles and kingdoms and magic wood. Who wouldn’t appreciate a wood so pure that it refuses to be shaped into weapons?
That’s just one of the many secrets in this fairy tale of living…ever after; happily is a state of mind. The story kicks off after about the first fifty pages of mourning a queen we meet only through others; one who left a huge hole in a kingdom that’s barely crawling out of the chasm left by the young king Christopher’s wicked father.
When Christopher struggles over priorities, he chooses a road that leads him away from his own castle in crisis in an attempt to save the kingdom itself.
Heart of the Linden Wood is a delightful story, full of twists and reckonings, self-examination, and an underlying quest for justice. Nicely done.
That’s just one of the many secrets in this fairy tale of living…ever after; happily is a state of mind. The story kicks off after about the first fifty pages of mourning a queen we meet only through others; one who left a huge hole in a kingdom that’s barely crawling out of the chasm left by the young king Christopher’s wicked father.
When Christopher struggles over priorities, he chooses a road that leads him away from his own castle in crisis in an attempt to save the kingdom itself.
Heart of the Linden Wood is a delightful story, full of twists and reckonings, self-examination, and an underlying quest for justice. Nicely done.
February 5, 2024
This cover is what first caught my attention, with how beautiful and eye-catching it is. The story itself is just as good as the cover in most aspects. The plot is the perfect magical woods fantasy novel that has a quest feel. The book does a great job of dealing with darker topics while keeping the book from getting too dark. The main characters felt like they should have been more flushed out. With more of a back story, the characters could be more enjoyable. The setting has some world building, but I struggled with how one minute the book has a medieval setting and then the next it is more modern with sterilized surgical equipment. Overall, the book was good and has plenty of potential.
February 7, 2024
In the Heart of the Linden Woods is a book about the journey of grief and lending a helping hand to those in need of healing. The main character experiences loss and when he takes charge to solve who is behind the killing of the trees, he learns many things along the way. This was a different kind of read for me, and I was pleasantly surprised with how well the book was paced. There are moments that will be tugging at your heart and times where you feel for the character.
March 5, 2024
Any time I am fortunate enough to meet an author prior to reading their book, I count it as a plus.
I met the author at a holiday market and enjoyed talking to her. The book was enjoyable and I was engaged in the quest. Probably my only complaint was there was a little too much backstory and a little too little quest adventure.
Altogether an interesting read. I'll probably get her other book and give it a try as well.
I met the author at a holiday market and enjoyed talking to her. The book was enjoyable and I was engaged in the quest. Probably my only complaint was there was a little too much backstory and a little too little quest adventure.
Altogether an interesting read. I'll probably get her other book and give it a try as well.
Read
April 24, 2024DNFed at 27%
I actually liked the prologue. It gave intrigue and fluttered my interest. Unfortunately, the book wasn't for me. It felt like it was dragging, and with the characters and plot not holding my interest, I couldn't help but not finish this one.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
𝘐𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘪𝘵! 𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.🥰
I actually liked the prologue. It gave intrigue and fluttered my interest. Unfortunately, the book wasn't for me. It felt like it was dragging, and with the characters and plot not holding my interest, I couldn't help but not finish this one.
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
Instagram @maggies.nook
tiktok @maggies_pov
𝘐𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘪𝘵! 𝘔𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯. 𝘋𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥.🥰
May 27, 2025
This is certainly a worthwhile read. It tells the story of King Christopher and his wife Lily, who died while giving birth to the heir. The healer, Geraldine, is dismissed for not being able to save the queen. This is not the end of his trouble, as the trees of Liden Wood are withering away. He has to find out why the trees are withering if he has any chance of saving his kingdom. If you love adventure and stories like this, then this is for you.
March 2, 2023
This is a grownup fairytale. Book starts a bit slow but keep reading. The story will pull you in. It's a love story, a fairytale, a historical and a trip thru the magical world of the Linden Wood. You will be glad you read it. Thank you to Net Galley, Ekta Garg and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 10, 2024
This adult fairy tale is a thoroughly enjoyable read. It had a bit of GoT road trip through the King's Road feel to it. The magic of the linden trees reminded me of the silver bars in Kuang's Babel. The palace insurgency and the escalating stakes related to the health of the trees provides plenty of dramatic tension for an interesting cast of characters.
March 7, 2023
With memorable characters and a quiet magic that leaves the reader curious to know more, In the Heart of the Linden Wood is a unique tale involving a quest with multiple layers that are interwoven to create a satisfying read.
April 6, 2023
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A Fairy tale for adults which was far too slow.
There is excessive dialogue and a little bit of action thrown in.
It was very difficult to feel any attachment to the characters.
This was not for me.
A Fairy tale for adults which was far too slow.
There is excessive dialogue and a little bit of action thrown in.
It was very difficult to feel any attachment to the characters.
This was not for me.
March 23, 2023
Thank you for NetGalley for This ARC .
The pacing was a little slow but the concept was great! The world building was great!
The pacing was a little slow but the concept was great! The world building was great!
April 11, 2023
moss attacks boy and woman becomes orb and some espresso depresso but there was Kirk and all was well in the end
May 28, 2023
Enjoyed the simplicity of a "fairy tale" but with issues that span all generations, i.e. low self esteem, feeling trap in a relationship, desire for better life, love, family and sorrow.
September 27, 2024
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews