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Diverged in a Wood

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"We need those moments amidst wildflowers—times when a spark of imagination reignites our urge to play like knights and princesses again, to construct forts, scale trees, leap into mud puddles, chase fireflies at twilight, gaze at stars on a pristine night, and to cherish the curiosity and passion for the small things. We need those precious moments—and we rely on stories to encapsulate them in ink, for the next generation to know of God—the Creator and Provider who gives breath to all things, and whose works testify to His greatness."- Kylie Beevers, curator of Diverged in a Wood

Embark on a literary journey off the beaten path with "Diverged in a Wood", where a cadre of sixteen Christian authors have crafted stories that echo Robert Frost's iconic poem: "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

This anthology promises a wide blend of genres—from fantasy to sci-fi/cli-fi, National Park adventures to historical tales, and dystopian adventures. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and hit the trail with us!

Diverged in a Wood features narratives from Amelia Cabot, Elizabeth Mae Wolfram, J.H. Lehr, Lorelei Angelino, Rhys-Marie Whitnell, Lillian Keith, Kaytlin Phillips, Emily Gingrich, Noah Mugrage, Caitlin Boatman, Lori Ann Nelson, Olivia Godfrey, Abigail Kay Harris, Katja H. Labonté, and Laurel Luehmann. This Middle-Grade short story collection is the perfect literary hike for ages 8+! 🐾🍂🌲🍁🍄🍃

Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 2024

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63 people want to read

About the author

Kylie Beevers

5 books24 followers
writing little stories about foxes 🦊

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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Profile Image for Kristina Hall.
Author 19 books431 followers
August 20, 2024
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

"If the Lights Go Out" by Amelia Cabot

A great story! High stakes, fun characters, good writing, and a sci-fi twist.

"Into Arcania" by Elizabeth Mae Wolfram

Another well-written short story filled with adventure. A good introduction to the author's upcoming novel.

"The Inbetween" by J.H. Lehr

Great worldbuilding and a fun adventure.

"At the Edge of the Forest" by Lorelei Angelino

A cool poem. I liked the different perspectives.

"The Less-Traveled Road" by Rhys-Marie Whitnell

A sweet story with great descriptions and a good theme.

"Trails in Time" by Lillian Keith

A touching adventure story with a great theme.

"The Misadventure of Prince Rugen" by Kaytlin Phillips

A well-written fantasy/adventure story.

"Untouched" by Emily Gingrich

A beautifully descriptive poem.

"A New Arcadia" by Noah Mugrage

An adventure story faintly reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia.

"Wandering Leaves" Caitlin Boatman

A sweet story with a fox-like fantasy creature.

"Path of a Fox" by Lori Ann Nelson

A beautiful, descriptive poem.

"What My Sister Saw" by Olivia Godfrey

A sweet tale of sibling relationships.

"Born Raging" by Abigail Kay Harris

A story involving humor and camping.

"Autumn Music" by Katja H. Labonté

An excellent story featuring an author.

"Untrodden" by Laurel Luehmann

A poem with a good theme.

Overall, Diverged in a Wood was an interesting read that I'd recommend to those who enjoy Christian fiction and anthologies.
Profile Image for Elisabeth Joy.
Author 8 books27 followers
December 28, 2024
Excellent collection of middle-grade, woodsy-themed stories, ranging from fantasy, to sci-fi, to contemporary.

"If the Lights Go Out" by Amelia Cabot: An intriguing story of a couple kids playing a deadly game of hide-and-seek on the sci-fi planet of Silvestria, where the trees aren't supposed to flicker and the diamonds should never, ever, fade. Because if they do, well... who would survive to tell the tale?
With themes of friendship and family, "If the Lights Go Out" is an exciting story where the adults actually keep their promises and the kids manage to save the day.

"Into Arcania" by Elizabeth Mae Wolfram: Aspen didn't ask to go out into the woods on the planet they crash-landed onto. She didn't ask to be to spend the night under the stars of a planet with no sun. And she certainly didn't ask to run head-long into danger. Lost and alone, can Aspen find a way to get back to her family? Or will the peril and vines of the woods be her downfall?
"Into Arcania" is a sci-fi adventure into a thick, unfamiliar wood that the whole family will enjoy as they root for Aspen and her father as they explore Arcania in hopes of finding a way home.

"The Inbetween" by J.H. Lehr: Wyl was not supposed to end up falling off the Lift and joining the criminal condemned to the Inbetween. But there she was, with a boy she didn't know, in a place that the mayor's daughter should never have been. But what if the wilds of the Inbetween aren't the doom the townfolk promise? What if there's more to the woods than anyone wants to believe?
A delightful story about a girl who learns that everything is not always as it seems and a boy who just wants to find his family, "The Inbetween" will be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

"at the edge of the forest" by Lorelei Angelino: Two siblings with differing opinions of a rainy hike, filled with beautiful imagery and picture-spinning poetry.

"The Less-Traveled Road," by Rhys-Marie Whitnell: Lillie is excited for her family's trip to Yellowstone, but when she meets a lady camping by the side of the road, Lillie wonders if God is calling her to reach out a helping hand. As their paths continue to entwine, will Lillie be able to help Elnora, or will the woman stay at the park forever, lost in a sea of grief and pain?
Perhaps my favorite in the collection, "The Less-Traveled Road" is a stellar example of taking the road less traveled and the effect of reaching out to those in need.

"Trails in Time" by Lillian Keith: To keep a promise, Paige needed to get to town. But the bridge had been swept away in a storm, and she had to let her younger neighbor tag along. He wanted adventure: Paige did not. Unfortunately for her, stopping an 11-year-old from following a mystery trail of clues and warnings is nigh to impossible. But when they get into real danger, will Paige be able to put aside their differences?
Weaving strong themes of friendship and forgiveness, "Trails in Time" is an adventurousness trek in the woods, with a lesson for everyone.

"The Misadventure of Prince Rugen" by Kaytlin Phillips: “Running from your problems is never the answer.” Too bad Rugen's got to learn that the hard way. But seriously? An arranged marriage to a girl he's never even met? That's just too much. Running away was a much better option. Until he's kidnapped and thrown into a dungeon. By a girl. Rugen will never live this one down.
A lighthearted yet deep story following a young price who decided to brave the woods instead of his parents' newest idea, "The Misadventure of Prince Rugen" is lesson of bravery, of facing your fears, and of not jumping to conclusions.

"Untouched" by Emily Gingrich: A lyrical piece depicting a place of nature and serenity, where no paddle has touched the sparking water, where no eyes have beheld the majesty in the thick of the wildness.

"A New Arcadia" by Noah Mugrage: "Orlando knew he would have to leave the city of Megapolis by morning, or perish." But Orlando had never left the city before. He didn't know the first thing about surviving in the wild, a place that everyone said would eradicate human civilization. He didn't know that animals could talk, or how to find his father, or that much of what he'd been told his entire life was a lie. Because the woods weren't cursed, and life beyond anything he ever could of dreamed up existed beyond those steel walls of the city.
In the style of C.S. Lewis, "A New Arcadia" explores a world where the woods harbor creatures of all sorts... but are all of them friendly? And will Orlando ever find his parents?

"Wandering Leaves" by Caitlin Boatman: It’s the first time I’ve ever tracked a knettel. The small creatures tend to keep their bushy tails out of trouble, so the Vilderfolk let them be. But this one is different. This one’s just a kit, and it’s alone." So begins Dawy's journey to save the life of a young knettel. With the man he calls Papa by his side, Dawy is ready for the hunt... but is he?
"Wandering Leaves" is charming story that takes place in a beautifully-crafted world, where vulps prowl and danger lurks in the woods of Vilde.

"Path of a Fox" by Lori Ann Nelson: Fox paths and the flight of a blue-feathered bird sweep you away in a gust of autumn breeze... "Away from holograph’s gleam and city’s false mirth/
I at last find beautiful peace..."


"What My Sister Saw" by Olivia Godfrey: Sometimes, it's hard to see yourself how others see you. Sometimes, it's hard to let go of jealousy. Sometimes, an afternoon in the woods is what two sisters need to learn a lesson about self-image and wanting to be something you're not.

"Born Raging" by Abigail Kay Harris: What do you get when you combine a pair of troublesome, royal twins, a "hotheaded bully" of a cousin, and a camping trip? How about a bear attack and an attempted poisoning? Hang on tight, because Micheal and Nicholas are in for a wild ride... and they're dragging everyone else along.
Another fun story, "Born Raging" is a carefree camping trip that turns into the sort of trouble you might expect from a crew like this.

"Autumn Music" by Katja H. Labonté: Millie is a novelist. At least, that's what she's supposed to be. Staying in a cabin with the perfect vibe for the season and her story, Millie cannot figure out how to beat the writer's block that seems to be determined to ruin her novel. But perhaps an afternoon by the river can provide a much-needed repose. And perhaps, just perhaps, the business of life is allowed to fall into a lull, and the road less traveled isn't as scary as Millie once thought.
With a wonderful, autumny feel, "Autumn Music" is a lovely addition to this collection. Millie and her younger sister seem to step out of the page and pull you into their quiet countryside.

"untrodden" by Laurel Luehmann: The last installment in the collection, "untrodden" is a poetic image of the road less traveled, where the path leads to places unknown... "but I look up from my weary feet / and You’re still here beside me, smiling."


All in all, a delightful read for the whole family. Enjoy from the comfort of you living room and be sucked into the wilderness, where friendships are tested and danger lurks around the corner. Be swept into the worlds of fifteen talented writers and poets, and be prepared to take the road less traveled.
Profile Image for Virginia Henderson.
Author 15 books84 followers
August 9, 2024
*I received a free e-copy from the author. I was not asked to leave a positive review. These are my own thoughts and opinions.*

Watch my full review here!

I could not wait to get my hands on this book. The theme of taking the road less traveled, not being afraid to take your own path, being immersed in nature…this anthology was right up my alley.

I’m going to give mini reviews (one-two sentences) and individual ratings for all 16 stories and then my final thoughts and rating.

If the lights go out by Amelia Cabot:
Initially I had a rough start with the setting and figuring out what was going on. The story picked up with the extreme hide and seek game and I really enjoyed the outcome. 3 stars.

Into Arcania by Elizabeth Mae Wolfram:
Interesting plot. I really liked the campfire tree! 3 stars.

The Inbetween by J.H Leher:
I was absolutely hooked from the start. The ending did seem a bit rushed, but I enjoyed it overall. 4 stars.

At the Edge of the Forest by Lorelei Angelino:
I’m not a big fan of poetry, but I really liked this. 4 stars.

The Less-Traveled Road by Rhys-Marie Whitnell:
Beautiful descriptions and excellent message. I like stories of big families, so this was great. 4 stars.

Trails in Time by Lillian-Keith:
I loved the time travel concept and the plot! Ezra was a great character! 5 stars.

The Misadventures of Prince Rugen by Kaytlin Phillips:
This was great! I loved the banter/sarcasm, and the ending was too sweet. 4.5 stars.

Untouched by Emily Gingrich:
This was a lovely poem. 5 stars.

A New Arcadia by Noah Mugrage:
I liked the messages of overcoming our fears and finding peace and contentment in nature. The story had an overall “hurried” feeling and I think I would have liked it more if the pacing was slower. 2.75 stars.

Wandering Leaves by Caitlin Boatman:
How can a story be so precious and scary at the same time? The vulp in the woods was a bit creepy but the Knettle was so adorable! 4.5 stars.

Path of a Fox by Lori Ann Nelson:
Very fun rhythm. I liked the theme of getting away from the city to enjoy nature. 3.5 stars.

What My Sister Saw by Olivia Godfrey:
Short and sweet. The message of others seeing your value when you cannot was awesome. I did have trouble with the time period. Sometimes it felt modern and other times it felt like early 1900s. 4 stars.

Born Raging by Abigail Kay Harris:
I enjoyed the humorous dialogue. I did have trouble keeping up with the fast pace. 3 stars.

Autumn Music by Katja H. Labonte:
The autumn aesthetic was on POINT! The message was thoughtful and inspiring. I want to live in that cabin. All in all- a bookishly good time. 5 stars.

Untrodden by Laurel Luehmann:
Deep and truthful message. 5 stars.

Overall, 4 stars. With any anthology, not every story is going to resonate well with a reader but for the most part, I really enjoyed this collection, and I had a fun time reading this. Every story perfectly captured the essence of taking that less-traveled path. High recommendation for young and MG readers. There was plenty of clean adventure and encouraging messages. The team did a fantastic job with this project.

Special thanks to the curator for the free ARC copy!
Profile Image for Abigail Harris.
Author 51 books261 followers
Read
June 8, 2024
Technically, I haven't read the whole anthology, but I did read some betas for my story. It was encouraging to hear sweet words about Born Raging after a bit of a rough week!
Profile Image for Edge .
Author 4 books28 followers
August 5, 2024
This anthology was so well-done! I enjoyed each and every story that perfectly lined up with the theme! It’s hard to choose a favorite. I am so grateful I was able to be an ARC reader for this anthology! Unfortunately, I’m also super bad at reviews but I do my best and the best thing I can say is just read it!!! It’s clean, MG fiction with all sorts of different angles but with Christian values in it. Easily read to kids nine and up I think! There’s nothing inappropriate. It’s also exciting!

**all of this was my own opinions and thoughts and I THOUGHT IT WAS AMAZING!!! 🤩
8 reviews
Want to read
July 17, 2024
While I can't give away all the secrets contained within this treasure box of wonders, I can say with confidence that this is the collection of forest themed mg fiction that we have been waiting for and the one we never knew we needed. I had the privilege of beta reading and contributing to this anthology, and I am excited for this anthology to be released in the world.
Profile Image for J.H. Lehr.
1 review
October 21, 2024
Written by sixteen talented authors, get ready for an exciting ride with woodsy vibes, adventure, and unexpected turns! These exciting stories and beautiful poems will keep you reading. If you love ethereal forests and engaging journeys, this book is for you!

P.S. No, I'm not biased because I'm one of the authors. There are fifteen other talented authors, remember!! ;)
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
Author 5 books9 followers
October 25, 2024
I am so honored to be part of this anthology!! There are so many great short stories and poems for middle grade kids that even older audiences will love. Genres range from fantasy to sci-fi, adventure, and more!
Profile Image for The Young Llama Reader.
13 reviews1 follower
October 10, 2024
Ahhh!!!! I love this book! Or I guess I should say I love this collection of 15 different short stories, poems and novels. All that matters is that this set of forest inspired stories is amazing!!! (And I know one of the authors!!! Shout out to Caitlin Boatman!!!!!!! Thank you for such an amazing story!!!!!!!)

Diverged in a Wood is a collection of forest inspired Christian awesomeness! There is 4 poems and 11 stories all written by different authors. From sci-fi, to fantasy to realistic, these stories take you on the less traveled path into a woods of mystery and danger! It is a fantastic collection for boys and girls 8 and up who love short stories and fun adventures!

I just ADORED this book. It was sooooo interesting to see all the different writing styles and stories laid out in a beautiful novel! Some of my favorite ones were Wandering Leaves by Caitlin Boatman, (of course!!!!) The Inbetween by J.H. Lehr, The Misadventure of Prince Rugen by Kaytlin Phillips and Untrodden by Laurel Luehmann!!! I loved the different adventures with some danger, romance and magic sprinkled in! It was just too fun to read!

And honestly I don’t really have any ‘cons’ with this book. The only thing I will, I guess, “warn” you all about is that this is a collection of short stories. Some of them end before your ready. You want more, but the adventure is shorter than you thought! It’s not really a ‘con’ pre-say, just that I need more materials by these authors!!!

Overall, this collection was amazing! I loved going through it and reading the different adventures, the poems were written so beautifully and the stories were amazing! I totally suggest this fabulous book to families who want a set of different adventures that would make story time even better!!!!! Or if you are like me and just like to read through collections by yourself because it’s fun. Have a great day! -The Young Llama Reader.
4 reviews
September 6, 2024
Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

Diverged in a Wood is a unique and light-filled anthology that I have been super excited about since it was announced! With stories from several genres including fantasy, sci-fi and contemporary fiction, this collection has something for everyone. I especially enjoyed the family relationships and the hope all the stories contained. The woodsy theme was an added bonus for me, I love nature and I always feel closer to God when I'm in the woods. These stories had a similar effect. If you enjoy uplifting fiction and love the woods, get this book!
1 review
September 16, 2024
I received this book free from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

I enjoyed this anthology very much, and its reminder that there is still hope even in the midst of division and times of darkness. All the stories have their unique flavors, and there's a lot of interesting world-building in some of them.
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