Heart of a Forest

by Sylvia Lockard

Raven has devoted herself to punishing the criminals in her kingdom as the Red Hood vigilante, until she’s hired to kill the princess. The only problem is…

She is the princess,

...and she just might be falling for a thief.

For two years now, Ravenna has escaped from her castle under cover of darkness and donned an enchanted cloak to become the Red Hood. Outside of the castle, she is far from her father’s empty throne, a physical reminder of the chasm separating Ravenna and her mother. With her hood, she can ensure justice is served—a justice she feels is lacking from within the castle walls. When princes arrive from surrounding kingdoms to compete for her hand in marriage—and with her kingdom starving—Ravenna is ready to trade cloak for crown and sacrifice anything for her people… even her chance at finding love and freedom.

Loxley always finds himself gravitating toward helping the broken and beaten, but he never expected to find a cloaked young woman—whose face he can’t recall no matter how hard he tries—ignite his heart with her banter and indomitable spirit. The more he encounters this mysterious stranger, the more fascinated he becomes—and the more he starts to hope he found someone who might look at him as more than a criminal.

Determined to avoid Lox, the too-charming thief who could threaten her secret, Raven finds herself frustrated by his persistent interest and reluctantly intrigued by him. Lox has an honest quality about him—one she can’t exactly say she shares. Just when she thought her biggest concerns were the looming betrothal, avoiding a certain prince, and keeping her secret hidden, the Red Hood is hired for an impossible task—kill Princess Ravenna. To survive this new threat, Raven is forced to join forces with Lox and his band of criminals.

Together, the unlikely pair must find a way to become a team, all while learning how to trust themselves, each other, and their hearts.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance

472 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 22, 2024

About the author

Stories are Sylvia’s lifeblood—whether originating from a book, movie, or video game—and she’s always been drawn to writing her own. Books have always felt like they held their own kind of magic bound within pages, and that called her away from her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology to follow her true passion. Heart of a Forest is Sylvia’s debut romantasy novel, the first in her A Pure Heart series.

Despite living in Florida, her favorite season is fall (spooky time!) and she loves staying inside curled up with a good book—while getting side-eyed by her sassy cat. When not writing fantasy adventures with swords and sorcery and morally grey characters, she can be found watching TV with her boyfriend and their four dogs. (She also has two lizards, a menace of a kitten, and a fish that would want an honorable mention, please). She dreams of one day writing full-time and for the rest of her life.

Reviews

[Rebecca Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5
What a great book! The writing, the plot, the characters (even though they annoyed me sometimes), all the twists, and the cliffhanger! Definitely one to add to your TBR. I can’t wait to see this book grow in popularity and get the recognition it deserves once it’s released.
Now to patiently wait for book #2

(ARC received in exchange for an honest review)

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great read! I’m a huge fan of storybook retellings. 3rd POV books normally throw me off but I definitely had a fun time reading this. If you’re a fan of Once Upon a Time then this book is definitely for you. Will be recommending!

[Brianna Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart of the Forest by Sylvia Lockard is a delightful adult fairy tale that brought back memories of classic tales for me. The story pulled me in with its unexpected twists, and I found myself thoroughly entertained. The princess-turned-vigilante was a standout, and the "band of bandits" added great depth to the plot. Each character brought something I wanted, and I'm excited to explore the secondary characters more as the story continues. It’s a captivating read, and I’m giving it 4 out of 5 stars.

[MelD · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get the ARC of this book! The fairytale retelling was unique & intriguing. The character building was excellent as I fell for each one of them & wanted more! (Especially Lox & Raven😍) If you like being swept into another world full of Fantasy & magic potions, a good heart-vs-evil, with witty banter & spicy romance;🤌🏼 then this book is absolutely for you!
Beware-it ends on a cliffhanger! 😳❤️😭 I will be anxiously awaiting book 2!

Favorite Quote- Rue-Did this thief steal your heart?
Raven-No. I fell for his.

[Jamie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being a huge fan of the show, Once Upon a Time, I was really excited to read this book. And let me tell you…it definitely did not disappoint!! The story was familiar while being fun and original at the same time. I loved the way the author wove so many fairytale characters into the story, and found myself getting excited every time a new character or connection was introduced. The story really drew me in and kept me entertained right till the very end. I absolutely love Loxley! And Ravenna is an absolute bad*ss! The two of them together were perfect. And there were so many secondary characters that I can’t wait to see more of in future books. If you’re a fan of fairytales and fairytale reimaginings, do yourself a favor and add this one to your TBR!

[Jennifer Clarke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't think I can find accurate words to describe how much I loved this book. The way this made me feel....it's rare. I felt like I was experiencing something magical. I was on the edge of my seat with the tension and action, the thrill of the characters on the run and hoping they wouldn't be caught. The deliciousness of a slow, sizzling burn of two people falling in love and the wonderful dance they take around each other, just to dive off a cliff edge into the deepest passion. The forest, the magic, the friendship, and the found family. I loved every single second of this book and I did not want it to end. I will be dying in agony for the next installment.

This book does have a feeling of Once Upon a Time (the tv show), with a fierce, sword wielding Snow White inspired Raven. And Lox was definitely giving me Robin Hood vibes. I just love when fairytales are blended and reimagined. There were so many references that I can't wait to see played out!!

As much as I loved, swooned, and melted over Raven and Lox's love, I really appreciated them as individuals. Raven is such a perfect princess, caring and giving to her people, and willing to sacrifice everything to help make her kingdom safer. She has also turned her hurt and fear into rage, forging herself into a weapon to dole out justice. And Lox, oh boy! There's so much that is unknown about his past besides the brief little hints, but he's a charmer with quick feet and an even quicker tongue. His heart is in the right place and even though he enacts justice in a somewhat gentler way than Raven, he does have a little darkness too. I loved the band he has formed and how they welcomed Raven in so easily. It was just wonderful to see people with their own sad pasts come together as a family and strive to help others.

And I'm intensely passionate about this - I am looking with my two eyeballs at Cindy and Kieran. They have to be a thing!! I am begging on my knees, I loved them!

Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love love love fairytales and this book was perfect at blending those adult fairytale elements with those I knew and loved from childhood. I really enjoyed how the author managed to bring together so many of the classic fairytale characters and add her own twist to the stories. The mystery, vigilante fast paced plot, found family, enemies to lovers (the chemistry between Raven and Lox!!) and the cliffhanger all made this a fabulous read - can’t wait for book 2!

(Arc received in exchange for an honest review)

[Ariel Newcamp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely took this one slowly probably because I was excited for a new adventure and this was a new world with definite swoon factors lol

It did take me awhile to get into but I eventually got hooked in especially when you got lines like this;

“Drink, yell, win rounds of cards—make them notice the drunken, brazen criminal.”

I also love badass female characters who surprise the male characters…we’re just awesome like that :)

[Alicia Pham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although life kept getting in the way, I’m so glad I didn’t give up on this book! It is truly a reimagined and intertwined adult fairytale that has Robin Hood, Rapunzel, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Sleeping Beauty and so much more!

Ravenna’s life is not at all what it seems when you first meet her. Go on a journey with her filled with twists and turns that you won’t see coming!

It is told in 3rd person.

I will definitely read the next one to find out what happens next!

[Jellica Bauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5✨’s it took me a minute to get into the book (at no fault to the author, I think I was in a slight slump after finishing another book) but once I got into it I loved it! The cliffhanger ending though! I’m going to be sitting on pins and needles until book 2 comes out!

Arc received in exchange for an honest review.

[Audrey Friesen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars! So blessed to have been an ARC reader for this book! Full of plot twists, deception, courage, feistiness, and spice. I cannot wait for the next book to see where Red and the Thief take us next!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book took you to new areas/ideas while having familiar little pop ins. Each character is super likable/interesting and keeps you engaged/wanting more. I’m intrigued to see where the next book takes us.

Raven and Loxely’s romance tale is one of my favorites and will die on that hill. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did!!!

[Confidentlyinthe.clouds Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. God.

Add this to your TBR IMMEDIATELY 🚨

This absolute masterpiece needs ALL Of the attention from the book community because this was just

😗🤌🏻


Ravenna and Loxley 😍

I don’t even have the words to describe my feelings about this book. Trapped, I was tricked and trapped from chapter 3. Someone catnapped my brain and I was gone.

This book has a twist on so many different fairytales it’s hard to count and I don’t want to ruin anything.

With tropes like
* Enemies to lovers
* Slow burn &
* Found family
You can’t go wrong, especially with romantasy.

This does end on a HFN, and will be book 1 releasing October 22nd, 2024.

[Angela Vilar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book way a great read. It caught my attention from the start and it was very easy to follow. The writing of this book was keeping me wanting more just to figure out the vague sentences. Which kept me engaged. I loved all the characters and can’t wait to read more about them in the future. Lox & Raven 😍I love them. This book was a great fantasy ready and should definitely be added to your tbr.

[Haylee Reuss · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great time I had reading this book! I loved the sort of adult spin on fairy tale stories I loved as a child. The characters were lovable and the plot had me devouring this book in just a couple of sittings. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next!

[Katie Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it !!!! It gave me Robin hood vibes at first, but it's different, and I loved it ! I can't wait to find out if there is a second book going to be written ( PLEASE?!?)

[Krissey P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a few versions of this story and I can confidently say that this one is by far the best and is now one of my favorite books💜

The pacing was perfect 👌 the story was cohesive. The spice was the perfect touch this story needed and doesn't take over the plot. I never felt like there was a huge info dump. I got MORE background information on all of the characters 😭😍 the love story bloomed even more 💜 I could really feel the emotions and sympathize with each of your characters 💜💜 ( I know, I know. Sorry it took so long for me to read the final version 😅 don't hate me. Ya girls a mood reader at her core).

Sylvia your writing has definitely improved since the first cute draft of HOAF where you made me suffer! I was just DYING for Raven and Loxley to finally kiss 💋 🤣 good times 🥰 I am so excited to read your next book!!

I hope you continue to write more and more, I've seen your binders and binders full of short stories 👀 so I know you have ideas! 🤣 One day 🤞🤞 this will be your full-time job 🥰 and of course, I'll still fan girl with you over your characters 🤣

[Beth Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when you put Robin Hood, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, and Aladdin into a blender? You get Heart of a Forest! I was blessed enough to be chosen to receive an advance copy of this book and a spot on the review tour from Nook and Fable media and I cannot thank them enough!! This book combined all of your favorite childhood fairytales and served them on a silver platter seamlessly! This is a very sold for stars for me just because there were a few spots in there that I had trouble following, however this was a beautiful blend of multiple re-telling in one and made for a thrilling adventure!! This isn’t super spicy but if that’s what you’re here for, this one handle some good moments? I really loved how descriptive the author is of the characters feelings to help paint a really good picture! This one is available on kindle unlimited to go grab it!!

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Add this to your TBR immediately!

Fairytales re-imagined usually give me pause and an eye roll, but this was incredible. The concept, the characters, the way they all connect, THE PLOT TWISTS! 🔥

"I choose you."

Ravenna and Loxley were everything together. A thief and a princess (a secret vigilante)? Yes, please! I mean, they stole each other's hearts almost immediately but refused to bind them for a while. Lots of beautiful, slow burn during the immense chaos of the Red Hood's reign.

The secrets throughout the pages certainly keep you on the edge of your seat, and I absolutely loved the little Easter eggs of what fairytale story was pulled into which way. The action was stupendous and the spice (though there were really only 3 spicier scenes) was perfectly placed.

All-in-all, this book was captivating from the first chapter and fills you with every emotional possible. Highly recommend!


It's filled with some of these beloved tropes:

✨️ enemies to lovers
✨️ multiple POVs
✨️ found family
✨️ plot twists galore
✨️ magic
✨️ "I choose you"

I can't wait for book 2!!

[EmMegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

first off can we talk about how GOOD Sylvia did in creating the found family in this book? i ate it up and i LOVED every single one of them. I cannot wait for the next book, pls i love every character, rue, lox, beast, scar, jon, cindy, kieran, finn, etc etc (i know im missing some just ignore it just know i love them all) The band of bandits has my heart 💕. But no seriously this book was good, between the slow burn romance between red and lox and the FMC is SUCH badass i wanted to clap for her every other chapter i feel like. she CARRIED this kingdom on her back with her blood sweat and tears. anyway pls go read this book you’ll love it thanks! :)

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic story! The fairy tale thread comes through strongly and enhances the plot. I was totally invested in Raven and her life, in whatever guise she was in, and I was devastated by the truth of her past. This book just keeps on giving - secrets, plots, deception, betrayal and revelations, and the relationship between Raven and Loxley is wonderfully developed.This book has a fast moving plot, well developed characters and a cliff hanger ending - I loved it all. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

[Zachariah Fromm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart of a Forest is captivating from the first words, to each twist, and every touch, pulling you further and further into Ecanta. The story introduces you to characters you feel for, want to be like, and others you want to be with. Heart of a Forest fills you with every emotion and keeps you surprised through every ride. I can’t wait to see where book two takes us.

[Bo-Maree Stuart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sylvia Lockard's debut novel, Heart of a Forest, is the first book in the A Pure Heart Series. This romantasy novel is an adult retelling of some of my favourite childhood fairytales.

'Princesses don't get to choose their fates.'

Raven has devoted herself to punishing the criminals in her kingdom as the Red Hood vigilante until she's hired to kill the princess. The only problem - she is the princess. Raven is the perfect royal. She cares for her people and wants to make her kingdom a safer and better place to live for everyone, even if that means becoming the Red Hood. Raven is someone everyone can relate to. She's full of emotion - caring, kind, giving, compassionate but with moments of doubt, rage, anger, grief, and loss.

'No happy ending for me - I know that.'

Lox is thr loveable thief who, along with his 'Band of Bandits' will steal your heart. Flirty, charming, vulnerable, and funny, he never expected to find someone that would see him as more than a criminal. He is the perfect combination of dark and light.

The character development is impressive. Sylvia has written characters that you fall in love with and find yourself wanting to know more about them. Don't be surprised to find yourself wanting to be like, or with, some of these characters. I love how more of their personalities and intricacies are revealed as the story progresses. These are characters that are not what they seem on first impressions.

The world building and story are well developed and executed, while the writing is not only free flowing and easy to follow. It keeps you captivated.

Full of mystery, betrayal, murder, banter, secrets, and deception, with a plot twist that will leave your head spinning this book is an adventure that will leave you wanting more.

Exploring themes such as found family, love, loyalty, and friendship, Heart of a Forest is a must-read for those that love a good fairytale retelling. If you loved Omce Upon A Time, you will love this book.

A strong debut and series start, and I can't wait to see where the next book takes us.

[Floss And Fiction Mom · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Robin Hood retellings with secret identities, banter, and tension that keeps you hooked, 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 is an absolute must-read. Ravenna has been leading a double life as the Red Hood vigilante, punishing the criminals her kingdom overlooks. But when she’s hired to assassinate the princess… things get complicated.

Loxley, the charming and determined thief, can’t resist helping the broken and overlooked, and when he meets Ravenna under her cloak, sparks fly. Their chemistry is electric, and the slow-burning tension between them had me completely invested.

The side characters are such a highlight too, they add so much depth, humor, and warmth to the story. What’s extra interesting is that the author originally wrote this as a YA book but rewrote it as a romantasy, and I’m so glad she did.

[Kaitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one started out slowly for me. It took a while to get into it and I wasn't sure I loved the characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the middle and the ending of the story but there are a lot of characters who are obviously coming from different fairytales in a massive retelling but I think it was a bit convoluted with the sheer number of those characters. I also struggled with a lot of the author's turns of phrase. There were a number of times where I stopped reading completely because I just wasn't sure what message she was trying to get across. There were also a lot of typos. The author definitely understands how to build a world and develop a story though, so I think with a better editor this could be a really wonderful book.

[Sarah Mclennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ ARC Book Review ✨

If you love fairy tales with a twist, Heart of a Forest is a must-read! This enchanting novel draws you into the magical world of Ecanta, filled with unexpected turns and lovable characters.

At the center of the story is Raven, a sweet yet fierce princess, and Lox, a charming thief with a big heart. Their chemistry is captivating, and their relationship unfolds through engaging tropes like "enemies to lovers" and "slow burn." You'll find it hard not to fall in love with them!

The character development is a standout feature, as each character reveals depth and complexity beyond first impressions. The writing is easy to follow and keeps you hooked with intriguing twists and emotional highs and lows.

Heart of a Forest beautifully explores themes of found family and friendship, making it an enjoyable read from start to finish. With its mix of fairy tale elements and fresh ideas, this book is perfect for anyone looking for a delightful fantasy adventure. Don’t miss out—I can’t wait for the next installment!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars.

What a lovely story. The push and pull that becomes the love story in this one between Raven/Ravenna & Loxley was so much fun to read. This twist on a fairytale retelling (think Robin Hood, Rapunzel, & Snow White in one) had me on the edge of my seat. Raven is a princess with a secret. She secretly spars with her head guard, Rueben, learning valuable skills as her alter-ego “Red Hood/Cloak” until she’s tasked with getting rid of the Princess (HERSELF)! So much drama ensues trying to find a way to axe herself as Princess Ravenna and disappear as Red Hood/Red Cloak. I loved chatting with Sylvia about this and can’t wait to see what happens with our lovely band of bandits on book 2. Thank you Sylvia and Nook & Fable.

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this Robin Hood retelling. It had mystery, adventure, romance, and interwoven familiar fairytale characters that we all know and love.
The plot was solid and I loved how strong our FMC Raven is - she is capable, intimidating, thoughtful, and intentional. Lox was a great MMC - he would truly burn the world for her.
I did feel at times that it got repetitive and wordy, which took away from the flow of the story. There were also so many characters introduced but some lacked much development.
Overall, this was a solid retelling and I will absolutely be reading book two.

[Kari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart of a Forest has become one of my cozy reads that I've read multiple times, and won't tire of. I love the found family, adventure, surprise, magic, and novelty of this book. The cast is incredible, and Lockard's use of fairy tale characters is so much fun to puzzle out.

I loved this book, and am also a fan of T. Kingfisher's novels, ACOTAR, and the show Once Upon A Time. There is a spark to this book that kept me reading, and it's become one of my favorite stories. I can't wait for the next in the series.

[Leia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so lucky to get the ARC for this book. If you are a fan of fairy tales with a twist, this is absolutely the book for you! The characters are so lovable and the whole book really gives light to “not judging a book by its cover.” I really love how every single one of them is much more than they seem to be from an outsider’s perspective. Honestly, if y’all don’t fall in love with the characters in this book, I’ll eat my own shoe. (Kidding, but honestly that’s how sure I am). Raven is the sweetest, most badass Princess you could ever hope for. Lox is the flirtatious thief with a big heart that you can’t help but fall for. I really just loved everything about this book and I can’t wait for the next one