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The Keeper #1

The Keeper

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Approaching her twentieth birthday, Anabelle has little interest in romance, coming-out balls, or the latest fashions. Living in seclusion on the edge of the forest with her mother, Anabelle sees no reason for her idyllic life to change.

Though Anabelle is plagued with dreams that feel far too real, dreams of Fae and spirits, masquerade balls and handsome strangers. Unknowing that her life was about to change.

For every two thousand years, a Keeper is chosen to protect the forest that lies beside the veil separating the world of man and magic.

When she was five years old, Anabelle was chosen to be the Keeper. But she has no memory of that event, who tried to kill her, or what her mother did to protect her. Now on her twentieth birthday, she is thrust into an unfamiliar world.

As memories of her past return, shadows will rise, threatening the very balance of the forest. Even as those around her succumb to the darkness, Anabelle will have to fight to discover the heritage that was hidden from her before their world falls into shadows and mist.


____________

Hello Readers! This book contains graphic descriptions such as drinking blood, violence, and death.
As a trigger warning, this book contains a depiction of brief sexual assault and the mention of rape as part of a back story.

391 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2022

19 people are currently reading
195 people want to read

About the author

P.S. Whytock

4 books65 followers
Phoenix is a newly thirty, flirty, and semi-thriving adult just figuring out life.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for Hannnah_Reads.
137 reviews21 followers
March 16, 2024
3.5⭐️

I really enjoyed this book, it did take me a while to get into in the beginning. The author has a beautiful way of describing things and this novel has a very unique and interesting premise. I did find myself confused at times with how this magic system is set up. I also wished there was more romance. I think this is a great first novel for a fantasy series, and I will definitely read the second one when it comes later this year.

A brief summary: Annabelle has no memory of being chosen as The Keeper of the forest when she was 5 years old. As she is approaching her 20th birthday, memories start to emerge and she learns the truth. The balance of the forest is in great danger and only The Keeper can save it.

Thank you to the author for providing me an ARC to read.
Profile Image for Gina Marie (OMG_look_at_her_books).
289 reviews43 followers
June 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 Magical Stars🧚🧜‍♀️❄️🐰🏹✨


“‘I’ve only been kissed once,' she whispered.”

(…)

“‘May I change that?' She took a breath, held it, and then let it out with a nod.”

“He leaned forward and brushed his lips softly against hers…”

______________________________________

This book was so darn good! The author did such an amazing job of having you feel like you’re actually walking through an enchanted forest and smack dab in the middle of a fantasy movie- very atmospheric.

I got hints of Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, Lord of the Rings and even A Court of Thorns & Roses (ACOTAR) from reading this amazing novel, so if any of those books or movies interest you, check this one out!

Annabelle, our main female character goes through so much, in such a short time, but I really enjoyed seeing her character grow from the beginning to the end of this book! Even though she had a few tragic losses along the way, I really believe that ultimately helped her shed her previous life so she could step into her new role as The Keeper!

If you’re looking for your next epic fantasy read with some sweet, light romance sprinkled in, this is the book for you!🙌🏻



Read this if you enjoy:

✅ epic fantasy
✅ sweet romance
✅ plot twists
✅ cute pet names
✅ sexy shapeshifters
✅ strong female protagonists



✍🏻Some Favorite Quotes:

…“if a book is good, you can read it over and over again without ever tiring of it.”


“You want a fight!” she screamed wildly into the darkness. Then come and get me!”….(something happens here but 🤫 no spoilers)…”Shit!”😂


“Most things in this life are fated to be unfair.”… ”I don't
believe that to be true. Perhaps if we only looked at the downfalls, but how we rise is the hand we choose from fate.”


I AM SO READY FOR BOOK 2!🎉
Profile Image for Nicola Doyle.
491 reviews15 followers
August 4, 2024
This book was wonderful!!! I was so emotionally invested in the characters. Not a bad thing! It was such a captivating story and the whole thing unfolded beautifully. The story was rich and imaginative. It was told in third person so no specific narrators. I loved the use of mythology and old terms and names. The pronunciation guide was extremely handy at the start! It was a beautiful fantasy world and I can't wait to read the next installment!
Profile Image for Megan Heazel.
9 reviews
August 31, 2024
I can’t wait for book 2 and the cliffhanger at the end 😁👏🏼 Excited to see what’s to come. Only lost a star due to some parts were a tad confusing to follow. Maybe Spoilers - The scene during the final battle between A and B was chefs kiss 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for dani ;).
268 reviews6 followers
March 1, 2025
WOW. I really enjoyed this book. At first, I started it because the lovely author is in my book club and she has the arcs of the next two books of the series (that i am very excited for). And now im just so glad that I did. I mean WOWOWOWWOW.

First off, I enjoyed Anabelle (FMC) a lot. I felt like her character was relatable and I love how she growed in the book and grew into her role as the Keeper. I thought she was strong and I felt like she will get even better in the rest of this series.

As for the plot, it was very intresting. I think the beginning was a little bit hard to get into but not horribly so. Every fantasy series needs a little world building and once you get through that you just sit idly and let the story cosume you. Thats how I felt w this book. I was just enjoying the ride. I think the idea of the book was just genius and it was something I had never seen before. The creativity that went into this book must have been immense and for that I say kudos.

I also really enjoyed the other characters that were introduced in the book. I think once we got more into the Forest world I just couldnt put the book down. (This makes me even more excited for the second book).

I realllyyyyy loved Anabelle’s cousin as well as Néefar. I was absolutely terrified for a quick second that Gallian was going to be the love intrest after his ass FORCEFULLY kissed Anabelle. I was like NUHUH. So when bro decided to leave and Neefar came in the picture I was jumping for joy. The older brother is always better (TSITP as well as Vamp Diaries taught me that). Either way I just that Neefar was sweet and I liked his character a BUNCH. His backstory made me wanna cry too 😓.

YOU KNOW WHAT ELSE KILLED ME. WHAT HAPPENED TO ANABELLES MOM ISADORA. UNCALLED FOR. SAME WITH PEPPER. FRICKING GALLIAN AND BALWIN SUCK. UGH. I was too attached to that fricking bunny. I should have known better. I cant handle any deaths after the books ive been reading😪😪.

Anywayyyy…

I think the book was a great intro into this new Fantasy world. It was intresting, BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN, fun, and has a lot of twists and turns still left in the storyline. I mean the epilogue had me gasping because I knew something shady was going on with Tatius and Ezra. I had a slying suspicion. So Boy am i ready for Book two!

Characters: 4/5
Plotline: 5/5
Pacing: 3.75/5
Writing: 4/5

So excited to be an arc reader for the next 2 books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Samantha .
201 reviews54 followers
August 27, 2024
Book Information
The Keeper
By
P.S Whytock.

Genre - Fantasy.

Pages - 368 Pages.

Tropes -
Hidden idenities.
Good vs Evil.
Light vs Dark.
Fae, Gods, Sprits and many other fantasy creatures.
Slow Burn.
Chosen One.

Available on Kindle Unlimited - Yes.

Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook, Paperback and Hardcover.

Publishing Infomation -
Published on 1st November 2023.

Format in Which i Read - Kindle Ebook.

Where my copy come From - Gifted from BookBabesPR.

POVs - As this is in 3rd person, there is alot from all the main characters POVs which blend it together nicely.

Dual Timeline - No just memories that are returning.

1st or 3rd Person - 3rd Person.

HEA or Cliffhanger - Cliffhanger...

Series or Standalone - This is the first book of The Keeper Triology. Book two is due to be released on 6th September 2024 and Book three is due for release on 11th October 2024.

Trigger Warnings - This book does have some content that people may find triggering, such as wars, unaliving and grief.




My Initial Thoughts

I havent enjoyed a good fantasy since May when i read Her Radient Curse. The cover for this book is absolutely beautiful and draws you in straight away with all the frozen aspects. The world building for the book is absolutely stunning. Its not all thrown at you straight away and is slowly eased in. In fact we start in the human world with only Anabell and Isadora.
"You cannot change what has yet to happen. Pave the path before you, and we will face the future together, whatever it may be"


Plot

"Courage comes from accepting our fears and being strong enough to face them"
This is the perfect fantasy to read if you are just finding your feet within the genre. More over the plot for this is Good vs Evil, Light vs Dark. Not only is the plot completly engaging it broke my heart several time over! The amount of tears i shed but also the giggles when the slow burn started burning! I adored the world building and the movie the book painted within my head, so much shock, so much hurt. The Mythical creatures that are within the forest are so vast its incredible, yet each and every one of them fits.


Characters

The characters for this was aMAZing! Do i have a new book boyfriend, oh yes Nèefar the shifter that gets you shifting. He says the most beautiful things and his nickname for her "Little Gipsy" as you get to know his story you just melt for him a little more. Anabell is the most inspiring character, taking everything in her stride to do the right thing for the world she protects even when she is unsure herself. She is the chosen one and she does nothing by halfs. I have to admit i have a soft spot for Isadora, just protecting her child with a mothers love. Balwin and Gillian tho they are a completety different story. I loved the creatures and all the different seasons, sprits and gods. The perfect mix of everything Fantasy.


Recommend

i recommend this to all that enjoy fantasy or those looking to diving into the fantasy genre.


Favourite Quotes

"'A Smile so beautiful it stole away the breath of the stars."

"I have fallen as far as i can fall, emotionally. I have nowhere to go but up."

"I think most of life is a game that we're forced to play for the amusement of others."

"But words are powerful, and i think we have the ability to take something ugly and make it beautiful."


Favourite Chapter/s

Chapter Thirty. But Chapters fifteen, twenty-six and thirty-four had me sobbing. Twenty-six left me heartbroken!


Summed up in one sentence

A truly amazing start to the trilogy.


Overall Wrap up

Overall this was an amazing start to a planned triology. The world building is easy to understand and is not thrown at you all at once. You follow learning the world along side Anabell. I love the little scene thats a bit steamy but not really, its very closed door, just mentions of it. The characters are all easy to love or hate (Notile... looking at you!)
The fact that there is so many magical creatures makes it even more enjoyable. I am excited that the next book is due to be released very soon and that the new ones will also be available to on kindle unlimited. For now i will sit patiently waiting to find out what happens next.



Stars.

5!!!


Spice.

1
Profile Image for Ashley Wyatt.
136 reviews23 followers
September 2, 2024
✨️ Finished ✨️
📖 The Keeper By P.S.Whytock @authorpswhytock 📖
📖Pages ~ 368
🎶 Read or Audiobook ~ Audiobook on Spotify.. 10 hr 30 min

✨️ My thoughts ✨️
I originally was going to read this on KU, but I got a chapter in and didn't want to stop reading, and life gets busy... so I went searching and found out that Spotify had this book for premium members, and I immediately started back up. What immediately pulled me in was Annabelle, the main character. She was really relatable in her growth and struggles. I'm so proud of her honestly of how she handled everything that was thrown at her. The second thing that I enjoyed was the concept of the book. To be chosen to be the Keeper and you had no memories of it. Total shocker, but I truly understand the secrets and the choices made by individuals in this book. The third thing I enjoyed was the creativity of it. The world building, the creatures, the good vs. evil. All around, it is a very captivating book, and I'm in a chokehold.
However, this book ends in a cliffhanger. So I immediately went to fit book 2 once I finished this book.

✨️ Favorite character ✨️
Annabelle

✨️ Tropes ✨️
▫️Good vs. Evil
▫️Hidden memories
▫️Coming to age
▫️Slow burn

✨️ Triggers ✨️
This book contains graphic descriptions such as drinking blood, violence, and death. It also contains a depiction of brief sexual assault and the mention of rape as part of a back story.
Profile Image for Jacky.
27 reviews4 followers
July 9, 2024
I love going into books blind, in this case I had some idea of what I was going to be reading but it was nothing of what I expected.

I was very confused at first for many reasons. My biggest concern was how old is the main character again? Why does she behave like a child when she is supposed to be reaching her 20th birthday? And then it hit me, she behaves like a child because she is pure of heart. She is an adult with the soul of a child, her life has not been turned upside down by pain and suffering, she has been shielded and protected by her mother her whole life. Well... that is about to change.

Joining Anabelle in her discovery of her new role as The Keeper was a real adventure, learning about all the creatures behind the veil, and seeing her grow stronger with each tribulance she had to phase, reminds me of the strengths we develop with each jab life throws our way. Anabelle was forced to endure too much pain in very little time, but she also found love and a new home where she fits in. I can't wait to see what her future holds in book 2.

Hmmmm something about Dragons?!?!
Profile Image for Liloe.
86 reviews4 followers
March 6, 2024
Annabelle grows up as an outsider in a simple house with her mother on the edge of the forest. No desire to conform and passionately make her own choices. Until her 20th birthday approaches and she starts having special dreams. But they are not dreams. They are forgotten memories. Her fate is already determined and she wouldn't be herself if she found her own way about it. The book tells everything from the 3rd person, which may make you less empathize with the main character, but the story more than makes up for it. The beautiful scenes in the forest. The magical creatures. This is a modern fairytale about a woman who finds her own strength despite the decisions made for her.

Thankyou very much for the arc. Got this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Zoe.
169 reviews10 followers
March 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75


I got this as an ARC!! I absolutely loved this book!! Anabelle is my most favorite character!! I loved the author writing. I can’t wait to read more of her work.
Profile Image for Elisa Martins.
213 reviews13 followers
August 11, 2024
4⭐️

A great debut to the series.
The story was amazing, very well written and beautiful.
Loved everything about Annabelle, what a strong FMC.
This book for me was like Narnia meets LOTR, full of fantastic creatures and a mixed of the best of two of my fave worlds.
If you’re a die hard fantasy reader, then this book is a must.
I can’t wait for the next book 🖤
Profile Image for Laura.
361 reviews4 followers
August 19, 2024
This was a nice introduction to the world. There were a few instances where the things they were talking about and they were doing felt rushed or incomplete.

The 'romance' was relatively instant on MMCs end and didn't feel fleshed out, but maybe we will get more information in book 2.
Profile Image for Samantha.
158 reviews6 followers
September 12, 2024
This book gripped me at the beginning and had me interested in Anabelle's quiet and cosy life with her mother. Anabelle's attitude to society was one I could get on board with, and she quickly became an exciting FMC. I loved how the author slowly showed Anabelle's power coming to life the closer she got to her 20th birthday through her dreams and the use of her powers as a shield to protect herself and others. As the story continued, I became more intrigued by her mothers past, Gallian, and the mystery blue-eyed man, but the minute she crossed into Faery, I slowly started to lose interest.

The story started moving far too quickly for me personally as we had Anabelle's power awaken, preperation for war, introduction to important, and not so important characters, major charactor development for Anabelle and Gallian, two mini battles, the final battle, a love interest and a set up for a sequel in about 220 pages. Some people reading this might think that's not that bad, but I felt there was so much depth, character building and backstory missing and I honestly would have rather this was split over two books if we had more. Some of the important charcters, like Savven, were introduced and then didn't make much of an impact to the storyline other than being there, and Gallian had so much potential throughout this book and I feel as though he wasn't utilised enough. It seemed as though the whole book took place over the space of a couple of weeks, and all events seemed to happen in one small space of Faery.

I really did love the premise of the book and the direction it was going in, and the authors use of descriptive language was beautiful. I just wish there was more and there were more quests and adventures between battles as they discover new area's of Faery, find characters held crucial information to their victory and could help train Anabelle as she came to terms with her new power.

Thank you to BookBabesPR and the author for a copy of this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Azraelitys.
234 reviews22 followers
March 10, 2024
Genre: Fantasy
Relationship(s): M/F
Romance: Slow Burn 🔥
POV: Multiple, Third person
Platform: Digital, ARC reader
Length: 365 pages
Rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Darkness: 🩶
Series/Stand Alone: The Keeper trilogy
Cliffhanger: Yes
Themes/Tropes: Fae, Chosen One, Magic, Parallel Realms, Dragons, Gods
Check Triggers⚠️: Yes

The year is 1740, so it’s historical book but also fantasy. Anabelle is about to turn 20 years old and unlock her destiny. Anabelle seems flighty and fanciful, her head is skipping through the forest or her dreams. Then she quickly switches to an wise old soul, it’s very incongruent. She’s starting to dream of repressed memories from her childhood but also maybe future happenings. She rescues a bunny from a fox and names it Pepper. Anabelle’s mother Isadora receives an invitation for Anabelle to attend a ball. When she’s there, reality and her dreams start to coincide. So far this feels like a YA fantasy book meets Disney movie. I’m hoping it gets better.

I thought with Gillian being in her dreams and memories that they would maybe be the start of a friends to lovers situation but his story didn’t end well. Anabelle is mostly stumbling through this new Fae realm. It has the bones of a good story if it was written a different way. The world building isn’t done well, I don’t like the flow of the story. You get odd information at weird times. Balwin is a sad, disappointing villain, not interesting at all.

When Anabelle encounters Savven-her cousin, though she doesn’t know that-she just follows him, it’s weirdly naive. Then when they meet up with Lithônion and Ezra they just continue on, like it’s a totally normal thing. Then we add Néefar, like let’s just add another guy you don’t know on this stroll through the forest. There’s no sense of time, direction or cohesiveness, the story should be building to something and informing you along the way. This feels like a series of scenes strung together, no connection to what’s happening or the people it’s happening to.

This is a slow burn romance, but I haven’t seen any clues. There’s no development of relationships, friend or lover. After the “battle” in this not very defined war, Anabelle loses everything she loves, I was so bored and ready for the book to be over. Only to realize that I was only 75% through and had another 100 pages to go. So I started skimming to get through it. She gets close with Néefar as he teaches her the bow, but it’s rather dull. There’s another battle, which again is short and boring, but you need twists for the cliffhanger. It never got better. Needless to say, but I will anyways, I didn’t like the book, nor will I read anymore books in this trilogy.

Follow me for more book reviews & recommendations on Instagram & TikTok via the links in my bio.
Profile Image for Rebekah Sinclair.
Author 24 books444 followers
June 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this debut novel and definitely recommend it.

Summary:
Annabelle is turning 21 and in the days leading up to her birthday she struggles with her grasp on reality as her dreams seem to be invading her nights as well as her daytime.

After a fated encounter at a masquerade ball, Annabelle confronts her mother for the truth of her dreams.

Learning she was the chosen Keeper of the forest, Annabelle must leave the safety of her childhood home and set out on a path to discover the enchantments of the Fae and explore the part of her that is immortal as darkness closes over the forest, Annabelle has to make a choice to fight for the magic of the forest or hold on to the last shreds of her mortality.

Review:
This writer has a lovely writing style and eloquent and descriptions phrasing that really conjures the imagery of her story, setting and characters. The beginning of the book was a little redundant but once Annabelle and her mother set out for the forest, the dynamics of the story really took shape.

I’m excited to see the story continue with book 2!
Profile Image for Samantha.
146 reviews26 followers
August 4, 2025
Book Information
The Keeper
By
P.S Whytock.

Genre - Fantasy.

Pages - 368 Pages.

Tropes -
Hidden idenities.
Good vs Evil.
Light vs Dark.
Fae, Gods, Sprits and many other fantasy creatures.
Slow Burn.
Chosen One.

Available on Kindle Unlimited - Yes.

Available Formats - Kindle, Audiobook, Paperback and Hardcover.

Publishing Infomation -
Published on 1st November 2023.

Format in Which i Read - Kindle Ebook.

Where my copy come From - Gifted from BookBabesPR.

POVs - As this is in 3rd person, there is alot from all the main characters POVs which blend it together nicely.

Dual Timeline - No just memories that are returning.

1st or 3rd Person - 3rd Person.

HEA or Cliffhanger - Cliffhanger...

Series or Standalone - This is the first book of The Keeper Triology. Book two is due to be released on 6th September 2024 and Book three is due for release on 11th October 2024.

Trigger Warnings - This book does have some content that people may find triggering, such as wars, unaliving and grief.




My Initial Thoughts

I havent enjoyed a good fantasy since May when i read Her Radient Curse. The cover for this book is absolutely beautiful and draws you in straight away with all the frozen aspects. The world building for the book is absolutely stunning. Its not all thrown at you straight away and is slowly eased in. In fact we start in the human world with only Anabell and Isadora.
"You cannot change what has yet to happen. Pave the path before you, and we will face the future together, whatever it may be"


Plot

"Courage comes from accepting our fears and being strong enough to face them"
This is the perfect fantasy to read if you are just finding your feet within the genre. More over the plot for this is Good vs Evil, Light vs Dark. Not only is the plot completly engaging it broke my heart several time over! The amount of tears i shed but also the giggles when the slow burn started burning! I adored the world building and the movie the book painted within my head, so much shock, so much hurt. The Mythical creatures that are within the forest are so vast its incredible, yet each and every one of them fits.


Characters

The characters for this was aMAZing! Do i have a new book boyfriend, oh yes Nèefar the shifter that gets you shifting. He says the most beautiful things and his nickname for her "Little Gipsy" as you get to know his story you just melt for him a little more. Anabell is the most inspiring character, taking everything in her stride to do the right thing for the world she protects even when she is unsure herself. She is the chosen one and she does nothing by halfs. I have to admit i have a soft spot for Isadora, just protecting her child with a mothers love. Balwin and Gillian tho they are a completety different story. I loved the creatures and all the different seasons, sprits and gods. The perfect mix of everything Fantasy.


Recommend

i recommend this to all that enjoy fantasy or those looking to diving into the fantasy genre.


Favourite Quotes

"'A Smile so beautiful it stole away the breath of the stars."

"I have fallen as far as i can fall, emotionally. I have nowhere to go but up."

"I think most of life is a game that we're forced to play for the amusement of others."

"But words are powerful, and i think we have the ability to take something ugly and make it beautiful."


Favourite Chapter/s

Chapter Thirty. But Chapters fifteen, twenty-six and thirty-four had me sobbing. Twenty-six left me heartbroken!


Summed up in one sentence

A truly amazing start to the trilogy.


Overall Wrap up

Overall this was an amazing start to a planned triology. The world building is easy to understand and is not thrown at you all at once. You follow learning the world along side Anabell. I love the little scene thats a bit steamy but not really, its very closed door, just mentions of it. The characters are all easy to love or hate (Notile... looking at you!)
The fact that there is so many magical creatures makes it even more enjoyable. I am excited that the next book is due to be released very soon and that the new ones will also be available to on kindle unlimited. For now i will sit patiently waiting to find out what happens next.



Stars.

5!!!


Spice.

1
Profile Image for Alli (lostlibraryofalli) .
91 reviews
Read
August 23, 2024
The premise of this story and the similarities to Narnia are what caught my eye. And yes, whilst it is eerily similar to Narnia, in ways, I felt the actual story fell a little short for my liking.

Annabelle is an almost 20-year old living in a cottage near the woods wanting to live freely and among the forest, not find a husband and have to obey by social standards (it's 1740). She's carefree and has a wild heart - she's basically every book girl's dream. She finds out on her 20th birthday she is in fact half-fae, half-mortal and she was chosen to be the Keeper of the Fae realm when she was five years old however her Mother had hidden the Fae world and hid her memories to try and live a normal life. You'd expect this to cause quite a frenzy and confusion but Annabelle seems to completely accept this new chapter without much thought. So they leave their cottage and head into the Fae land.

Annabelle and her Mother have to part ways and she has to go and seek out this lake. However, she is killed and dies by the hand of her evil nemesis, a man who was wronged by a child being picked instead of his own (I liken him to Jadis however he has demons inside of him). But she is brought back to life by a God and is then transformed into an immortal Fae.

Annabelle then seeks to reunite with her Mother and along the way runs into her cousin, his friends and also another, all in the space of a few days, and does. not. question. a. thing. There's no getting to know each other, nothing, they just go from complete strangers to acting as if they have known each other for years. It's quite difficult as a reader to accept the pace of some relationships when there is no proof to back it up in the story. If we had seen this group travel for several weeks together with strong dialogue then the relationships would be much more believable.

Timing is one of my big qualms with books, and this one had huge timing problems. It seemed as if everything happened all too quickly without anything being properly fleshed out. First with the relationships, especially the romance that sort of developed from nothing. Second, the plot felt rushed with no explanation as to the severity of the events. We had two battles within days of each other and bare in mind this story takes place over the course of -maybe- two weeks? I felt as if I was missing a book to explain all of the backstories that I didn't get in this one.

One thing I will say is that the descriptive language was beautiful and the world was written well. I liked the idea of including a variety of fae folk and creatures, just like in Narnia or The Cruel Prince, it was a refreshing change from the constant churn of Fae stories we are being bombarded with. And it was a nice start to what could be a great series if characters are better fleshed out and there is more depth to the story.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Carrie Nelson.
46 reviews1 follower
December 2, 2024
I thought this book had a lot more promise and potential near the beginning, but I did struggle to get through all of it. I took a few tries of needing to stop reading for a few weeks to read something else, which was unfortunate and felt disappointing. I think the bones of this story could be so meaningful if more substance was added and less of what felt like filler.

I did really enjoy the beginning of the book when we were exploring more historical aspects of the world and different settings. I thought the way the town was described as well as the ball were really fun, and I wish we almost spent way more time there and with our fmc learning how to integrate into the magic system than shoving it all at her all at once, leaving me feeling like the rest of the story was a completely blind trust in her being able to save the world with magic that she never understands.

I unfortunately just don’t think I understand a lot of the connections in this story. Characters seemed to come out of nowhere and not hold a lot of meaning, and I just don’t know how I feel about the love interest. It feels like a slow burn and an immediate love story all at once, which is goofy. It seemed like the fmc made a connection to why we should love this love interest as well, but the reasoning wasn’t very clear so I still feel like he’s a stranger.

I wish this book was a little slower to just elaborate on the important information and not info dump some knowledge that I’m not sure had really anything to do with the wellbeing of the plot or the characters. The ending especially felt very rushed for how long the rest of the book took me to read. I know that I’ve seen more positive notes on the next books, so I want to continue reading and make sure I’m giving the rest of this world a chance, but I almost wish there was a rewrite of this first book so the next one felt more exciting to read and less like a second chance.
Profile Image for Cheryl Deitrick.
132 reviews2 followers
August 26, 2024
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

@authorpswhytock 🧚‍♀️🧚‍♂️🧚‍♀️🧚‍♂️🧚‍♀️❤️

Approaching her twentieth birthday, Anabelle has little interest in romance, coming-out balls, or the latest fashions. Living in seclusion on the edge of the forest with her mother, Anabelle sees no reason for her life to change. Anabelle is plagued with dreams that feel far too real, dreams of Fae and spirits, masquerade balls and handsome strangers. Unknowing that her life was about to change. Every two thousand years, a Keeper is chosen to protect the forest that lies beside the veil separating the world of man and magic. When she was five years old, Anabelle was chosen to be the Keeper. But she has no memory of that event, who tried to kill her, or what her mother did to protect her. She is thrust into an unfamiliar world. As memories of her past return, shadows will rise, threatening the very balance of the forest.

I loved this book so much! This is the first book of the trilogy. The story was so whimsical and has very strong characters! Her writing is so intricate and beautifully detailed. I felt like I stepped right into the forest! I highly recommended you add this to your tbr! It’s available on kindle unlimited.

#read #reading #readmorebooks #fantasy #enchanted #thekeeper #bookworms #books #bookaddict #bookaesthetic #fae #lovely #book #booklover #bookish #bookishlove
Profile Image for Katherine Pogatshnik.
86 reviews4 followers
February 29, 2024
"I must embrace my fears. And one day, I will have the courage to face them. While you may run and hide behind your towers and kin, I cannot follow your lead. I am no longer a child in need of protection. I will be the one to protect those around me." -From "The Keeper" by P.S. Whytock

A beautifully written high-fantasy novel with a well-developed, strong, female lead character. The world that P.S. Whytock has placed her story in reminds me very much of Tolkien with cameos of other mythological creatures. My favorite part of this novel is the main character, Anabelle: Independent, headstrong, but logical in her actions. She is relatable while still being very much fantastical in her abilities/magic. Definitely some surprises with the paths that other characters take.

The story changes points of views frequently (especially from the middle on to the end) which can cause moments of re-reading to fully determine who is speaking. I am also hoping for another support female character to arise in the second book...

If you love a good high-elf fantasy with lots of action, you should give this one a read.
Profile Image for Dominique.
102 reviews
March 11, 2024
My Rating: 4.5/5

I did receive an arc copy of this book!

I will say, I love Anabelle's character, but there are certain aspects of her development I wish we got more time on. Such as her training. We got to see her practicing with a bow and arrows, but not with the sword, but she knows how to wield it in battle. I would say the romance between her and Neefar is a slow burn so that is true to form. I love that we'll get to see their relationship blossom in future books as well. I wonder if we'll get to see more between Anabelle and her aunt and cousin. I feel that certain characters were introduced but we didn't see much of a relationship development between them and Anabelle for her to care about them as much as she did. It could be that she's just a super caring person and was sheltered her whole life, but I hope we'll see more dynamics between characters in the future. I will say the beginning of the book felt a bit slow and it picked up quite a bit towards the end, but the end did feel a bit rushed. Regardless, I am so excited for book two, I loved the story and can't wait for it to continue!
Profile Image for Bookfairymel .
178 reviews13 followers
August 18, 2024
The Keeper

This book had tons of classic fantasy vibes we all know and love. Hidden powers and memories, mystical creatures, and the chosen one trope, this will absolutely satisfy your craving for fantasy. I loved Anabelle as a main character. From not wanting to comfort to societies view of women to doing whatever was necessary to protect those she cared about, she was a very strong FMC. She was fully aware that she was new to being the Keeper and did not fault those who might not believe in her yet. I loved all of her connections to nature and I think her powers of both winter and light were very interesting.

The romance felt a bit rushed and out of nowhere, as we assume she would end up with another prominent character. I didn’t love what the author did with Gallian’s character but I also warmed up to Néefar after a few chapters. I think he could be a very fun love interest as the series progresses and I can’t wait to see more of him. Overall a great start and I’ll be tuning in for the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alissa Anne.
105 reviews3 followers
March 6, 2024
3 ⭐️

This fantastical, coming of age, “chosen one” story is told in a third person POV about a girl discovering herself and growing in a new role that was set for her. Annabelle has to overcome hardships and accept her fate as The Keeper.

In the beginning, it did take me a bit to get into (which isn’t unheard of in a fantasy book…. world building and all). When a certain someone *no spoilers here* is introduced, i started FLYINGGGG through the rest of the book. I love a good slow burn 😋

In the end, everything all came together and wrapped up nicely. This has a lot of potential to become a great series. Also with that being said, the Epilogue has me gnawing at my fingers waiting for the next book.

Lastly, this has nothing to do with the actual story but I would just like to say… I cried at the dedication and then I cried again at the Acknowledgments. I’m wishing the author the best of luck with her debut novel 💖

THANK YOU to the author for allowing me the ARC!
Profile Image for Loopy Lou Life.
34 reviews
August 24, 2024
Who gave this author permission to devastate me like this!
I cried so hard at one specific part, and then my tears turned to anger at this author over Pepper. How dare she do this to Pepper! And I dam near was prepared to go to war when Néefar was threatened.

In all seriousness, I loved this book so much. I held my breath so much that I was gasping for air by the time I came to the end. And the ending "So it begins." I screamed so loudly!
I can't wait to read the next book and see what adventures lay in store for Anabelle next!

This quote from the book has stuck with me, and is it something we should all bear in mind, especially with all the darkness in this world;
"Shadows cannot be observed unless there is light. You cannot gaze upon the stars and moons unless there is nightfall"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Alyssa.
30 reviews
September 4, 2024
I applied for an ARC of the second book in the series before reading the first one and it would have been silly of me not to read the first one.

So here we go. I didn't connect with this book or to the MFC. I almost connected with whom I *thought* was going to be the MMC.
It took me a week and stopping to read other books to get through it. I'm not giving it a lower rating because I genuinely believe this is just a matter of taste and it just did not resonate with *me*, but it's going to be loved by a lot of people.

I mean, this book started off with a BANG and I was like, oh yeah here we go! And then it hit the ground hard and seemed to crawl to about the 60-ish percent point where it kinda picked up, then dipped, then picked up, and then I wasn't sure if it was going to pick back up. I don't know. I didn't know what to do.

I did feel like it ended on a strange note.

But I finished it and am on to the sequel because I keep my promises.
Profile Image for JabberwockyStories.
114 reviews4 followers
February 24, 2024
First off, thank you to the Author for providing an ARC!

This book was remarkable and hard to put down! The world building was amazing and easy to follow. The author is brilliant with describing the surrounds so you feel very immersed in the story!

I found the build up of the world's structure to be at just the right pace where it wasn't too confusing and easy to grasp the fae structures while not slowing down the timeline. I do wish some of the characters had a bit more background to them but knowing there are more books to come I believe we will get to see more of their stories and relationships bloom!

I love a slow burn and this was a such a beautiful romance you can see bloom that doesn't take away from the rest of the plot.
Profile Image for Alicia Gillispie.
123 reviews3 followers
March 22, 2024
A very enjoyable debut to the series! I loved our main girl and her strength and determination through all the crazy surprises thrown her way. The poor girl didn’t see it coming and I loved the pacing of the book. The author did a beautiful job with her description and making you feel the tension all the way through it. My only difficulty with it was that I really wanted to know more about the world she is now in, but the action took over pretty quickly. A very light hint of romance that keeps the reader wondering and sets the stage beautifully for more development in book two. Overall a enjoyable read and I’m ready for book two!
Profile Image for David Triana.
12 reviews23 followers
March 23, 2024
This book was freaking incredible. There have been few books that I’ve read basically in one sitting, and this was one of them. The Keeper is the perfect example of a movie playing in your head while you read, totally transporting you to another world. The cast of characters were one of the many highlights of this story, especially the relationships between them all. I thought the backstory with Anabelle, Isadora, Balwin and Gallian was so strong and heartbreaking, giving this book such important emotion that I’m sure we’ll be feeling through the rest of the series. Also, THAT ENDING. Just, do yourself a favor and go read this book ASAP.
Profile Image for Bailey W..
6 reviews1 follower
March 23, 2024
This is a beautiful coming of age story set in the backdrop of a fairy forest with wonderfully diverse magical creatures. The story follows Anabelle as she becomes an adult and discovers that what she knows is not all there is in the world. Suddenly thrust into a magical world she must find what is important and learn to fight to protect that which she holds dear. There is also a slow burn romance that left me wishing for more. This is a classic story of good versus evil and as I read, I was continually turning pages needing to know which side would triumph.
Profile Image for lizsreadingjourney.
170 reviews8 followers
September 21, 2024
🧚‍♀️COMING OF AGE
🧚‍♀️SLOWBURN
🧚‍♀️HIDDEN TRUTH
🧚‍♀️GOOD VS EVIL

As a new lover of fantasy, I can easily say that this world made me lose myself in it! Phoenix has a wonderful way to draw you in and make you want more, which is how I was left feeling at the end of this book! Thankfully, book 2 is out already so I don’t have to suffer with the cliffhanger. Anyway, the world building & attention to detail is immaculate with this one. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Annabelle as I continue with the series.
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