Silver in the Wood is a lovely, atmospheric little novella about an ancient wood, fae, the Green Man, and queer love. Tobias is a big, gruff man who lives in a cabin in the woods, and he isn't quite human, though perhaps he once was. When a young man named Silver walks into his life and slowly charms him, everything begins to change and an ancient evil threatens to destroy their burgeoning relationship. It's a short book, but there is a sense of depth to the world, a rootedness in mythology, and a sweetness to the characters and relationships. I enjoyed it and look forward to seeing more from this author.
I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[this review will be up on my blog, acquadimore.wordpress.com, on June 15, 2019]

Silver in the Wood reads like a forest fairytale. It could be seen like a loose m/m retelling of the Green Man myths, so it's fitting that this is a story about rebirth and reawakening, not only of nature after spring but of people after toxic relationships.

It's a quiet, slow story, and if at first I thought that the pacing was odd - things happen too quickly, but the book is still slow? - I realized that in a way it was a reflection of how the main character, who is part of the wood, experienced time himself.

This is also one of the best plant magic stories I've ever read. Not only it's about a vaguely creepy wood, it actually talks about which trees there are in detail - elms, oaks, and even a mention of gorse (I love gorse) - and there are scenes in which roots and vines are weapons.

What didn't work for me as much was the romance, as this is barely longer than 100 pages and the characters interact for only half of them; I thought it was cute, but I didn't feel it.

At times it reminded me of Witchmark for the sweet romance between a human and a paranormal creature, at times it reminded me of Strange Grace for the isolated town in the wood and the terrible things that lurk in it, and I'd definitely recommend it to everyone who liked those books.

Silver in the Wood is a beautifully written story about an enchanted forest, folklore come to life, and budding new love. The language is as lush as the magical and mysterious Greenhallow Wood. There is a music to the writing, and I found myself lulled and serenaded by the story of Tobias Finch and the sweet, curious Henry Silver. Honestly, I could've read 900 pages of Tesh's writing. I eagerly look forward to reading future works by this talented new author.

I wasn't sure about this novella initially, but it quickly won me over. I'm not very versed in the Green Man mythos, even though I have—of course—seen the Green Man motif before. I suppose, in the end, it was the promise of an LGBTQ+ relationship that made me request Silver in the Wood from NetGalley—and the fact that it's from Tor—and in that respect, it didn't disappoint. For a novella, the story is a bit of a slow burn, which was surprisingly fun to read, although at first, I wasn't really sure what was going on. But secrets reveal themselves along the way, at just the right moments and in just the right ways, and you find yourself giving the characters each a special place in your heart. Tobias is a bit rough around the edges, but as the story unfolds, his vulnerabilities are fleshed out, and his heartache becomes palpable. Silver, on the other hand, wears his heart on his sleeve, perhaps a little too much. This is a good book to read in the sunshine, for Greenhollow feels cold, even though the story—and the surprise ending—is anything but.

This book was wonderful! It was lyrical and moody and completely engrossing. Tobias is such a strange but endearing character. The chemistry between him and Henry was subtle but powerful. The descriptions of the wood were hypnotic and magical. I'm surprised by how much I enjoyed it and my only criticism would be that it ended too soon! Brilliant.

eARC kindly provided by Tor/Forge via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I feel as if this book falls between three and four stars, so I rounded up. This is a short, whimsical read. I enjoyed how the story showed the difference between how others perceive someone and how that is not always the whole truth. Yes, the man in the woods was something other than human, but he can appreciate and give kindness just like everyone else. He is not what the townspeople would consider "normal" and has long ago given up attempting to appear approachable. He is one with the woods, one of the woods, and not entirely human enough to pass. This was a gentle read with a bittersweet ending and a sweet love story wrapped up in a nice little package. I would recommend this book to someone who likes fae and short stories.

*An ARC of this book was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*

I really enjoyed this debut novella's take on the Green Man folklore. It made me want to walk in the woods and leave an offering of blackberries at the base of a tree. I would have liked to read some of the adventures of Tobias and Mrs. Silver, but that's not what this particular story was about so I understand why it was not included. Overall, a quick, fun read.

I would say this book hits between a 3 and a 4 star review. I was granted an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher said to only post reviews publicly only 2 weeks prior to publication so hopefully this is close enough? It’s about two weeks away I think. Fingers crossed because I don’t have a calendar near me.
I feel like this book had a good whimsical feel to it, like local legends passed down, and I have to admit I’ve never really read another book like it. (Which always is bonus points for me) The idea of woodland fantasy creatures isn’t anything new, but the point of view from a forest-entity is.
Downside is that it felt kind of slow, tree-pace, if you will, but even that fit. I didn’t really understand what was going on for the most part, and I didn’t really feel anything for the characters. Nothing was bad about them but nothing made me love them. However the gay representation is always great! Definitely an intriguing read.

Quick read (only about 100 pages) and oddly paced. There were times when the action moved very slowly, and times when it felt like things got cut that would have been better left in. For those who know the Green Man myth, this is a great addition to the collection but those who don't may not understand what is going on as clearly. The mystery of Tobias is somewhat solved (one of those "I wish there were more" parts) but left open is what his future will be. I'm undecided if that's a good thing or not.

eARC provided by publisher.

Tobias Flint has lived in the Wood a long, long time. So long, he’s become more legend than man--one that inspires an otherworldly fear in the heart of the local villagers. Henry Silver is the new master of Greenhollow Hall, and an amateur folklorist come to research legends about the Wild Man of the Wood. Silver is young and a bit too handsome for anyone's good--and a terrible flirt to boot--so when he stumbles into Flint's cottage in the midst of a menacing nighttime storm, Flint knows right away the affair will only lead to trouble. For the Summer Moon approaches, and with it a terrible curse that will test both men in ways neither could ever have seen coming.

SILVER IN THE WOOD is a quick read, easily devoured in an evening--though readers would be forgiven for wanting to spin it out for as long as possible. Written in sparse, lyrical prose that blends old-world lore with an original, magic-infused tale, SILVER IN THE WOOD offers a persistent, excruciating tension that gave me the same chills as reading Victoria Schwab's The Near Witch, and the same breathless satisfaction in the unfolding. For fans of The Near Witch and authors of similarly slow-burning-yet-immersive fantasies (think Paula Brackston, Erin Morgenstern), Emily Tesh's debut novel should be an absolute auto-purchase.

*I received an eARC of SILVER IN THE WOOD from Macmillan-Tor/Forge via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions here are mine. *

A compact folktale about a mysterious man living deep in a magical forest. Author Emily Tesh immediately immerses you in her vivid world full of fae and foliage. The story, the writing, and the characters are all solid and I mostly enjoyed my time spent in Greenhollow Wood...although I'm not sure I'd want to return there for future adventures.

Silver in the Wood is a charming and romantic fairytale of a novella that manages to tackle quite a lot in its short length. At its roots, though, it’s a story about landscapes: the ancient and magical woodlands, the harsh worlds forged by human hands, and the vast mountains and valleys of the heart. The story follows Tobias Finch—the rumored Wild Man of the Woods—and his handsome, folklorist landlord Henry Silver as they meet, befriend one another, and fall in love, all the while surrounded by the unpredictable fae, the contested relationship between humans and the natural world, and their own dark pasts and tangled desires.

While achingly lovely and thoroughly enjoyable, I did want the story to occasionally slow down and take its time. The dreamlike tone and steady pacing of this story were two of my favorite aspects of it, but I often found myself feeling like the situations and context being presented deserved more focus or could have benefit from further exposition. That said, I think the novella format was a perfect medium for the type of story Tesh set out to write, and so I’m hesitant to even consider if this would work better as a longer piece. It felt to me that Tesh built enough detail and history into the narrative to befit a longer work, which could be why I felt like the mere glances we got at centuries-long issues within the story felt a little insufficient at times for the reader in me that was dying to know more.

In the end, the issues I had could very well be things Tesh may be planning to expand upon in further stories, but in any case, I wouldn’t want any of this to deter you from this story because, despite my questions and grievances, this is a story that will tug at your heartstrings and make you want to pull a Henry Silver and wander into your nearest wood, chasing after some greater truth and a promise of adventure. It spoke as much to my childhood self as it did my adult self and for those of you who have been wanting your fairytales to be gayer and greener, look no further—Emily Tesh has given us something special.

Silver in the Wood is a lyrical dream of a book. In just over 100 pages Tesh transports you to a whole other world, where magic lives deep within the forest and other-worldly beings walk.

This was such a gorgeous little volume. I fell in love with Tesh’s descriptions of Greenhollow, and Tobias. It’s lush and vibrant. It’s a spell that is woven around you slowly, bring you into the deep dark green.

The relationship between Tobias and Silver is lovely to watch unfold. It’s a subtle thing and creeps up due to it being a short story but it was done well. We also get some quality moments like Tobias having a ‘???…!!!’ moment when he realises Silver is in his bed and wearing his clothes.

Part of me wishes it had been longer but I’m not going to hold that against it since it is a short story. So I am hoping this is not the last we’ll see of Tobias, Silver and Greenhollow. And Pearl and Silver’s mother of course, who are some of the best supporting characters. Get you a cat like Pearl. I would read a thousand more stories in this world.

Silver in the Wood might not be an epic novel with battles over the fate of the entire world but it’s consuming, haunting and so so beautiful. If you are looking for a short book to dive into, to do away with the real world and experience a little magic then I definitely recommend Silver in the Wood.

This book is an atmospheric journey into the woods. It is an enchanting story of curious folklorist wandering into the woods, learning that his legends are real and falling in love but told from the unique perspective of the mysterious far Wildman living in woods. I loved the addition of a strong willed older woman who comes in and takes charge of a situation gone wrong and her determination to save the save the day. It was filled with fresh perspectives that you don't often see in the genre

A lovely little book that makes me want to go stand in the middle of a forest and wait for magical things to happen.

As happens with a lot of novellas….I wanted more of this. I wanted more of the gorgeous descriptions of the woodland, I wanted more build-up of tension between Tobias and Silver, I wanted more of a sense of how Tobias was linked to the forest, what it meant to him and so forth. But not because there wasn’t enough – just because it was so good.

Fun fact about me, I grew up with a small wood at the bottom of my garden, not enough to house a cottage but enough to feed my imagination. I have fond memories of campfires and building dens with my mum. I love woods, that sense of slipping back into somewhere wild, more untouched – it’s something that evidently captured this author also. The descriptions of the woodland and the creatures within really managed to evoke that same sense, which really is what makes this short story so special.

I particularly liked the dryads, who aren’t the main feature of this story but absolutely caught me, Bramble (a Dryad close to Tobias) made me smile on more than one occasion – I’d gladly read a book from her perspective one day.

In such a small amount of time this book manages to do quite a lot. There are a few things that arguably fall short, there isn’t really enough time to build relationships between characters and things happen more quickly than they might do otherwise – but it still feels broadly believable and through it all there is a strong current of magic, of otherworldliness that helps to indicate that you’re really supposed to suspend disbelief for this one.

There’s something special about this book. If you’re looking for a quick read with that little bit of magic and folklore I think this is a great option. I won’t say too much more though, you’ll have to read and discover it for yourself.

My rating: 4/5 stars

I received a free digital advanced review copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Silver in the Wood is available June 18th

I was instantly sold on this novella the moment I heard about it – creepy English folklore and queer romance is basically my ideal read. I was thrilled to be approved for it on NetGalley, and I already know I’m going to need a hard copy!

The atmosphere in this story is phenomenal. I don’t know how Emily Tesh has managed it, but she somehow conjures that feeling of utter safety and beauty of being in a forest, and also that feeling of threat and dread and something lurking beyond your sight. This is a book that would fit perfectly anywhere in the canon of English forest folktales – it’s dark, and creepy, and joyous, and full of hidden meaning. It’s magic, but only just enough to make you wonder the next time you go for a walk. It feels like a glimpse into a forgotten world.

The characters, too, seem to have stepped right out of folklore, and yet shine in their uniqueness. Tobias, who lives alone in the woods, guarding his domain from natural and supernatural harm, is one of the most real characters I’ve read in a long time. He’s good and kind and caring, but also grumpy and isolated and a little outdated. I loved him. He felt like the embodiment of the forest, but he also felt distinctly human (somewhere deep in there). I also really enjoyed Henry Silver – his love of collecting folklore combined with his naivety about what things really meant instantly endeared him to me. I thought these two were so good for each other, and I appreciated that somehow their romance felt slow-burn and almost incidental to the story, despite the short length of the book.

And that’s the thing. This is a short novella, but it’s so utterly all-consuming that it felt like a dream, where time matters very little and the world just flows as you need it to. I felt like I’d spent years with these characters just inside 120 pages. I can see myself returning to this story for a reread whenever I feel the need to reconnect with a bit of magic, because it somehow encapsulates everything I’ve always loved about English ballads and forest tales. When I put the book down, I was genuinely kind of angry that I hadn’t written this myself, because it just hit something in my heart. It’s perfect.

Obviously, it gets five out of five stars. How could it not?!

I actually feel kinda awful not giving this book a shining review, because it’s a really beautiful story and I think a lot of people will love it.

Silver in the Wood is one of those books that either catches you or it doesn’t. I’d liken it to books like Uprooted, The Bear and the Nightingale, Spinning Silver, and Deathless -- not in the storyline itself, though all of those involve fairytale elements, but in that the experience of the book is more important than the plotline. And those are all books that seem to either enspell people completely or leave them wishing they could feel the magic others seem to feel.

Unfortunately for me, as much as I wanted to love it, I found myself unable to connect to the story or the characters. I’m the type that needs to know *exactly* what happened. Stories that are a little abstract are hard for me. I needed more character build-up and more explanation for why things were as they were, what exactly that meant, etc. That may be me asking too much of a short novella, but I’ve also read novellas that worked really well for me even with a limited word count, so I don’t think that’s the only reason why.

This was a well-written story, but it was simply the wrong story for me. I like tales that are darker and more twisted than Silver in the Wood. I like characters that are sharp -- minds, edges, nature. I like books that mess with your mind. Silver in the Woods was gentle and sweet. Like a kiss on the forehead as you drift to sleep.

Now, that said, I do think this novella is going to capture a lot of hearts. The writing is beautiful and easy to get lost in. I think fans of classic fairytales will love the story. It’s going to be perfectly beautiful, lyrical and mysterious for a lot of readers.

I’d recommend it for anyone who enjoys: soft and sweet folklore, gentle giants, classic fables, lyrical prose, and queer romance stories where the queerness isn’t the focus of the story.

Advanced copy provided by Tor.com publishing through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

(Review will be posted to Goodreads & IG stories on 6/4).

Silver in the Wood is a thoroughly charming novella inspired by the Green Man of British folklore, with understated, lyrical prose and a sweet gay romance. Set in a nebulous period presumably somewhere in 19th century England it details the life of Tobias Finch, the 'wild man' of the forest and how his world is changed by the arrival of a curious folklorist into his woods.

I enjoyed the depiction of Finch's connection to the wood, and the important role he played within it; there were no long descriptions of worldbuilding to build it up or explain anything, it was all immediate and intimate, exactly as you would expect from someone who has felt these things for hundreds of years. I also liked the way the 'mystery' about Finch was slowly revealed, and how Silver's mum played a role in the story as well. I wish there had been more time foster the romance - even though this is a novella I still feel there was room for another page or two to expand their relationship so it had a slightly more satisfying conclusion. Over all, however, I thought everything was well done, and if my only real complaint is wanting more that's a wonderful thing indeed.

Wow!! This novella is so beautiful! It was the perfect story to read right before bed! I felt like I was being tucked in with a magical fairytale.

Silver in the wood is short but packed with so many feels! Usually with short stories I find I have a hard time connecting with the characters because the story is told so quickly. That was not the case with this one! I fell in love with the characters and surprisingly one of those characters happened to be a tree! I can say that's a first for me! Lol!

I need more of this fairytale world and it's characters!