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On The Edge: Forest and Fae
For two years, Ebony Wick has survived alone as an outlaw and highwaywoman in Rundlewood Forest. She doesn’t need people. She only needs to survive. But when Hunter Sparrow breaks into her camp and invites her to join his gang, the Bounty Hunters, she finds herself facing a difficult choice. With a burning desire for revenge against a powerful enemy, Ebony must choose between reason and instinct. But in doing so, she discovers a long-hidden secret that will change her world forever.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
1 person is currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Glenn
3 books12 followersMaddy Glenn grew up inspired by the rolling Sussex countryside, which sparked her love of storytelling.
Following a degree in Philosophy and English Literature, she established Softwood Books, now a multiple award-winning publisher
for independent authors.
Maddy is a published poet and the author of The Dwelling Hunter fantasy series, On the
Edge (2020), In the Dark (2022), and At the Door (2025).
She lives in rural Suffolk with her family.
Following a degree in Philosophy and English Literature, she established Softwood Books, now a multiple award-winning publisher
for independent authors.
Maddy is a published poet and the author of The Dwelling Hunter fantasy series, On the
Edge (2020), In the Dark (2022), and At the Door (2025).
She lives in rural Suffolk with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 12, 2021
'On the Edge by M. J. Glenn' is a YA fantasy novel and first in the Dwelling Hunter series.
With a straight forward plotline and engaging narration; this book is more of an introductory novel to the upcoming series by the author.
Ebony Wick lives among the fairies, is a surviving outlaw and highwaywoman in Rundlewood forest. Like her surname, she is wicked, and you feel it from the start of the novel. But that's also because being an orphan she has to survive somehow in the lonely world.
What keeps her occupied is the curiosity about her birth givers. She has never seen them, never felt them. But one day when Hunter Sparrow crosses her path and pretends to know a lot more about her than she, herself. She decides to join his clan. What happens next is the unravelling of some unknown secret of Ebony's life. Who, at the age of sixteen, has seen enough complexities of life.
With a unique storyline and limited characters, I adored how the author has kept elements of a fantasy novel intact throughout. This book has perfectly intertwined geography of the place; its custom and culture to believe in the story.
Ebony is a bildungsroman character, who eventually grows in the story. She is eager to know what happens around her and knows where to draw her boundaries.
What I liked about the book is how easily this book read. Unlike other fantasy novels which include an intricate description or you feel lost in the potpourri of words.
From quite some time I have turned into a slow reader, therefore I took, good, twenty days to finish it. But I am sure with its gripping narration; one can finish this book in four-five sittings.
This book is a binge read; perfect for readers looking to start reading the fantasy genre. The only thing which might bother you is you will have to wait for the second instalment in the series to see Ebony in action.
I give this book a 4🌟/5🌟
With a straight forward plotline and engaging narration; this book is more of an introductory novel to the upcoming series by the author.
Ebony Wick lives among the fairies, is a surviving outlaw and highwaywoman in Rundlewood forest. Like her surname, she is wicked, and you feel it from the start of the novel. But that's also because being an orphan she has to survive somehow in the lonely world.
What keeps her occupied is the curiosity about her birth givers. She has never seen them, never felt them. But one day when Hunter Sparrow crosses her path and pretends to know a lot more about her than she, herself. She decides to join his clan. What happens next is the unravelling of some unknown secret of Ebony's life. Who, at the age of sixteen, has seen enough complexities of life.
With a unique storyline and limited characters, I adored how the author has kept elements of a fantasy novel intact throughout. This book has perfectly intertwined geography of the place; its custom and culture to believe in the story.
Ebony is a bildungsroman character, who eventually grows in the story. She is eager to know what happens around her and knows where to draw her boundaries.
What I liked about the book is how easily this book read. Unlike other fantasy novels which include an intricate description or you feel lost in the potpourri of words.
From quite some time I have turned into a slow reader, therefore I took, good, twenty days to finish it. But I am sure with its gripping narration; one can finish this book in four-five sittings.
This book is a binge read; perfect for readers looking to start reading the fantasy genre. The only thing which might bother you is you will have to wait for the second instalment in the series to see Ebony in action.
I give this book a 4🌟/5🌟
February 23, 2022
On the Edge is the first novel in the Dwelling Hunter series by author M. J. Glenn and I can honestly say it’s got me fully invested in future books. This is the story of Ebony Wick; a survivor and highwaywoman who lives in Rundlewood Forest amongst the fairies. She is an orphan who has learned to survive in a lonely world and is curious about her parents. When Hunter Sparrow meets her and asks her to join the Bounty Hunters, we begin to unravel the secrets of Ebony’s complex life.
This story was a unique fantasy journey with adoring characters and a mysterious arc. Ebony wasn’t the typical teenager that we often see in these types of fantasy novels. Glenn portrayed her as a strong individual who is both smart but can make mistakes. She isn’t a flawless character but those are never the best to read. The world-building was exciting and the slow draw of finding out about Ebony was worth the read.
There were parts that were slower compared to the rest of the story but Glenn has set up an incredible world that creates the feel of terror and survival whilst adding fairy culture and a richness that is unparalleled. This was a great start to the series and I’m interested to see what Glenn does from here.
This story was a unique fantasy journey with adoring characters and a mysterious arc. Ebony wasn’t the typical teenager that we often see in these types of fantasy novels. Glenn portrayed her as a strong individual who is both smart but can make mistakes. She isn’t a flawless character but those are never the best to read. The world-building was exciting and the slow draw of finding out about Ebony was worth the read.
There were parts that were slower compared to the rest of the story but Glenn has set up an incredible world that creates the feel of terror and survival whilst adding fairy culture and a richness that is unparalleled. This was a great start to the series and I’m interested to see what Glenn does from here.
June 28, 2021
On The Edge is an adventure-fantasy about Ebony Wick, an orphaned teenage girl turned highwaywoman. If you've read some of my previous reviews of YA characters you'll remember that YA narrators written by adults is one of my biggest reading pet peeves, but Glenn avoids that trap expertly.
To say Ebony was my favourite thing about this book would be an understatement. There's a whole character there, rather than the usual approximation of a teenager that I so often see in YA fantasy. She's got thoughts and motivations beyond the superficial and her intelligence, whilst avoiding the deus ex machina plot fixer, is central to her character.
I loved that she is a good fighter, and an adept survivor but can equally make mistakes. She's not flawless, and that's what makes her interesting.
Whilst this book sets up future plots, I don't think that's a bad thing at all. It immerses us in the world Glenn has created and teases us with the overarching plotline whilst still giving us action and character growth.
If I were nitpicky I'd say the middle section moved a little slower than the initially very exciting opening and the on-the-edge-of-your-seat ending.
Finally, I loved the world Glenn has built. It feels very folky, with a real feeling of surviving out in the woods. Meals are detailed, the community is vivid, the splashes of the fairy culture add real richness. It's a great place to get lost for a few hours
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 stars for a rustic, dark fantasy world and an interesting female lead.
Highly recommend to high fantasy and low fantasy readers alike.
To say Ebony was my favourite thing about this book would be an understatement. There's a whole character there, rather than the usual approximation of a teenager that I so often see in YA fantasy. She's got thoughts and motivations beyond the superficial and her intelligence, whilst avoiding the deus ex machina plot fixer, is central to her character.
I loved that she is a good fighter, and an adept survivor but can equally make mistakes. She's not flawless, and that's what makes her interesting.
Whilst this book sets up future plots, I don't think that's a bad thing at all. It immerses us in the world Glenn has created and teases us with the overarching plotline whilst still giving us action and character growth.
If I were nitpicky I'd say the middle section moved a little slower than the initially very exciting opening and the on-the-edge-of-your-seat ending.
Finally, I loved the world Glenn has built. It feels very folky, with a real feeling of surviving out in the woods. Meals are detailed, the community is vivid, the splashes of the fairy culture add real richness. It's a great place to get lost for a few hours
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 stars for a rustic, dark fantasy world and an interesting female lead.
Highly recommend to high fantasy and low fantasy readers alike.
March 3, 2021
The first few pages appeared to be a bit stiff and somewhat formal which got me wondering if I had made a mistake in putting this on my birthday present list. As the story progressed the writing style became looser and I was drawn into the plot. The characters are well formed and believable although there are mysteries attached to quite a few of them which are resolved slowly.
This being book one of a series, some of the mysteries are left unresolved and the book ends on a cliff-hanger leaving the reader wanting to get hold of book two as soon as possible.
This being book one of a series, some of the mysteries are left unresolved and the book ends on a cliff-hanger leaving the reader wanting to get hold of book two as soon as possible.
March 24, 2022
This was an enjoyable book about a girl who has been forced to fend for herself and live in the woods, even becoming an outlaw to survive. There is a mystery to be solved, a new life to forge and alliances to be made. I enjoyed the read and the main character Ebony who has many mysteries of her own. Hunter is a multi faceted character who intrigued me and left me wanting to find out more about his motivations and his history. The book left off with many things sorted out but still with enough questions that the reader will want to venture into the next book in the series.
June 21, 2022
YA fantasy novel.
An orphaned highwayman is recruited into the Bounty Hunters. To maintain her freedom, she must face her attackers, but in doing so, she discovers a secret that changes her world.
Instagram: maddyglenn
Twitter: _maddyglenn
Facebook: Maddy Glenn
Website: https://mjglennauthor.sumup.link/
An orphaned highwayman is recruited into the Bounty Hunters. To maintain her freedom, she must face her attackers, but in doing so, she discovers a secret that changes her world.
Instagram: maddyglenn
Twitter: _maddyglenn
Facebook: Maddy Glenn
Website: https://mjglennauthor.sumup.link/
February 8, 2021
A really enjoyable fantasy read. What I loved about the physical book is that the writing is a decent sized font and is very dyslexia friendly can be difficult to find. The story is well told with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. With a young but strong female protagonist who we follow on her adventure.
December 16, 2020
For lovers of fantasy fiction this is an exciting adventure novel with the twist of a strong female protagonist. We ended up reading it in one sitting and are now looking forward to the next book in the series
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September 7, 2021Inviting Read with Every Page
I was enchanted and thoroughly enthralled by On the Edge. A new fantasy read with a unique story I never imagined. I am looking forward to the next adventure with Ebony Wick.
I was enchanted and thoroughly enthralled by On the Edge. A new fantasy read with a unique story I never imagined. I am looking forward to the next adventure with Ebony Wick.
January 6, 2022
An interesting fun book following a feisty heroine, what more could you want?
August 29, 2025
An exciting adventure for readers at the younger end of the YA spectrum, although there is quite a lot of casual killing along the way. Ebony Wicks is a survivor. Orphaned young, she managed to escape the horrors of the children’s home she was abandoned in. Escaping to live deep within the woods, she is friends with the fae and robs from the rich to give to … well, herself really. Then a man finds her camp and everything changes. Ebony is forced to question her life and examine her past. Who is she? And where did she come from?
Ebony is an intriguing character, and the reader is left with many unanswered questions about her. Believing herself tough and smart, Ebony makes spectacularly idiotic decisions that land her in hot water. A proper teenager, then. The story bounces along nicely, though, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader entertained and an ending that will leave them wanting more.
A fun and interesting read for ages 13+ and the first in a series that has potential to be a winner.
Ebony is an intriguing character, and the reader is left with many unanswered questions about her. Believing herself tough and smart, Ebony makes spectacularly idiotic decisions that land her in hot water. A proper teenager, then. The story bounces along nicely, though, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader entertained and an ending that will leave them wanting more.
A fun and interesting read for ages 13+ and the first in a series that has potential to be a winner.
March 29, 2022
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Unsupervised in a Bookstore
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Ebony Wick is a highwaywoman. She grew up in a cruel orphanage in the Dwellings, escaping to join the city's street gangs at the age of ten. Now she lives alone in the forest, raiding carts and coaches for goods she can sell to survive. With the help of a friend who drives the carts, and the fairies who visit her campsite, she makes a living and evades capture by the Snatchers, whose job it is to send her back to the orphanage until she comes of age.
There's a legend about the Shadow, a demon who lives in the woods, and Ebony uses the story to frighten the victims of her raids. She enjoys her reputation as the Shadow, and the effect it has on the people she robs. She is determined to survive alone, and avoid the orphanage, but when a stranger arrives at her hidden campsite, the life she has built is threatened.
On The Edge is an exciting YA fantasy with a strong, independent female lead. Ebony is an intriguing protagonist. She knows nothing about her past beyond the orphanage and the sadistic man in charge. She is clever, resourceful, and strong, and it is easy to sympathise when her carefully guarded life is challenged by an intruder.
From the first nail-biting page to the last, Ebony's story twists and turns through friendship, loss, acceptance and betrayal. As she learns more about her past, she must decide who she can trust to protect her from the Snatchers, and whether she is willing to give up her independence in exchange for the protection of another gang. Working in a group might offer safety, but she will need to learn to work as part of a team. If she stays alone, she might lose the opportunity for revenge on the man who runs the orphanage. It's an agonising decision. Is Ebony ready to choose?
Book two in the series is coming soon, and I can't wait to read it!
Ebony Wick is a highwaywoman. She grew up in a cruel orphanage in the Dwellings, escaping to join the city's street gangs at the age of ten. Now she lives alone in the forest, raiding carts and coaches for goods she can sell to survive. With the help of a friend who drives the carts, and the fairies who visit her campsite, she makes a living and evades capture by the Snatchers, whose job it is to send her back to the orphanage until she comes of age.
There's a legend about the Shadow, a demon who lives in the woods, and Ebony uses the story to frighten the victims of her raids. She enjoys her reputation as the Shadow, and the effect it has on the people she robs. She is determined to survive alone, and avoid the orphanage, but when a stranger arrives at her hidden campsite, the life she has built is threatened.
On The Edge is an exciting YA fantasy with a strong, independent female lead. Ebony is an intriguing protagonist. She knows nothing about her past beyond the orphanage and the sadistic man in charge. She is clever, resourceful, and strong, and it is easy to sympathise when her carefully guarded life is challenged by an intruder.
From the first nail-biting page to the last, Ebony's story twists and turns through friendship, loss, acceptance and betrayal. As she learns more about her past, she must decide who she can trust to protect her from the Snatchers, and whether she is willing to give up her independence in exchange for the protection of another gang. Working in a group might offer safety, but she will need to learn to work as part of a team. If she stays alone, she might lose the opportunity for revenge on the man who runs the orphanage. It's an agonising decision. Is Ebony ready to choose?
Book two in the series is coming soon, and I can't wait to read it!
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews