I knew I could rely on Elly Blake for a proper enemies-to-lovers.

Too many authors have lost the meaning of the trope with rivals or "he was vaguely mean to me once," but Cassia and Zeru are at true opposite ends of the spectrum, and it was such fun to watch them bicker and snarl at each other while also slowly getting closer. The *how* of the "got closer" was a bit odd to me, but whatever. They were cute and I loved them together.

Also, for reasons I don't know how to explain, this gave me Tears of the Kingdom vibes? Like, lost castle in the clouds, demony boy and foresty girl, naming standards that would not be out of place amongst things like Koroks. It was impossible for me not to imagine Hyrule while in this world and its political framework and battles, and I genuinely loved that for me.

This was very nearly a standalone, so I am very curious to see where this story goes in book 2!

Thank you to Hachette Canada for the copy!

This was a solid YA fantasy filled with a bloodthirsty forest, rival species at war, mythology, magic, betrayal. It was whimsical, a little dark, and intriguing. I did have some issues with the world building and storyline, which caused confusion and a feeling of disjointedness, but it wasn’t enough to alter my enjoyment of the book. Cassia and Zeru were fun characters, and I especially liked how sarcastic he was. Their relationship from childhood friends to bitter enemies to reluctant allies was great. Their romance did feel a little rushed, and I would have liked more buildup. Overall, I liked the book, and I’m interested in where the story will take us, so I will read the next one. Eleanor Bennett narrated the book and she did a great job with it. She brought the characters to life and was able to differentiate each character’s voice and give them unique personalities.
🌳
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Spice level: 🌶️
🌳
Read if you like:
▫️YA fantasy
▫️forest mythology
▫️childhood friends to enemies
▫️their species are at war
🌳
Thank you to Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, the Novl, Hachette Audio, Elly Blake, and NetGalley for the ARC and ALC. I received advanced copies for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

When she was a child, Cassia went missing and became friends with a demon boy who gave her a ring. Turns out that ring was way more important than he ever thought it would be, for moments after he slid it onto her finger the demon queen and Forest king declared war. Now, Cassia's father needs her in order to win the fight because of that ring, but she's kidnapped by none other than Zeru -- the same demon boy who gave her that ring all those years ago. And now he's been tasked with retrieving that ring. But another threat to both their people is rising, and if the two of the can't work together to fight against it, how much hope is there for the rest of their people?

ZERUUUUUUUUU. I loved the demon boy with the wings and broody attitude. And as much as I wanted to hate Cassia at times, I found her to be actually pretty badass. I loved the setting of the red Thirstwood trees and the lore not only behind them but of the entire world. AND THE MAGIC! My gosh, I loved how that came together to create an incredible book filled action and romance and adventure. I love how much Cassia fights for Zeru -- especially since the enemies to lovers went beyond that and turned into something amazing and not one-sided for a good portion of the book as we usually see with romantasy

And if I'm not mistaken, it looks like the next book will be led by one of her sisters and I appreciate that. I can't wait to see them in the next books.

This felt like a very standard, YA romantasy. It didn't do anything particularly well or particularly poorly, and largely felt like a story I've read before.

I wish the outcomes were less predictable, and that the characters were more developed as they felt a little one note and simplified (the titular Forest King was the biggest offender). The beginning also could've used either more world-building or lore.

Eventually there's a climax where it does really start to feel like a Fantasy book, but the beginning largely was just political setup, the middle was exposition dumping of lore and training, and then the ending was a bit rushed.

Overall I don't think I'd recommend this to people with a similar taste as me, and I feel like if you like YA fae romantasy then you know exactly what you're signing up for.

Audiobook Notes:
The narrator is British and has a decent voice that fits the fairytale atmosphere. Occasionally a little funny to picture her delivering the MMC's lines, but overall a pretty standard narration with nothing stand out to note.

I was drawn to his book because of the cover, but I listened to the end because I was intrigued by the story and the characters.

Cassia is the daughter of the forest king, and when she was about 6 years old, she was gifted a ring by a boy she met in the woods. They had met several times and he had gifted her a few other things, seeming to suggest he was grateful and thankful for her friendship and possibly liked her more than she liked him.

Zeru is the boy she met and the one who gave the gifts. In his culture, giving three gifts means their friendship and connection is sealed. He finds a ring which looks nondescript in his mother's jewelry box and thinks she won't miss it since she has much prettier pieces. However, upon gifting the item, the Forest King and the Dracu (spelling? I had the audiobook) Queen appear in the clearing and a war between the races begins. The ring is, in fact, a sacred treasure and possibly a weapon in the wrong hands.

I feel the world building was well done and enchanting. I enjoyed many of the side characters such as Voz. Even Gutel was pretty awesome little kobold. Characters and pacing were good and the story was enjoyable. I think my main criticism is Cassia herself who seems so utterly focused on pleasing her father and family, that she is completely blind and naive to the rest of the world and things happening to her. Zeru was well done and dynamic, but Cassia feels kind of whiney and immature many times.

However, I will read the second book as I would love to know what happens next.

"He gave her a ring, she brought him war." If this blurb paired with lush and evocative world building speaks to you, The Forest King's Daughter is worthy of your TBR pile!

Readers follow Cassia, daughter of the forest king, and wielder of a magic ring that was gifted to her as a child. As war descends upon the forests of Cassia's home she is pushed to learn more about the ring and fights to understand how to utilize it for good with a few unlikely allies. I found that the real magic here lies in the depth of world building and the delightful side characters readers meet along the way.

I fell quickly for this world and it's inhabitants. Blake has spun a tale that feels inspired by some of my favorite classic literary worlds but she somehow manages to make it ultimately feel fresh and new. The result is a story that one can really get lost in.

A simply beautifully written nostalgic fairytale of star crossed lovers.
Listening to the audiobook was a lovely experience that made me feel younger again, like the magic was there within reach. The fae creatures here are much more whimsical - more traditional than what is usually often depicted more recently. The world building was done very well, it did not feel as though you were info dumped but instead simply going through the world with the mfc.
There relationship of the two main characters, Cassia and Zeru, begin as children who know no better, torn apart but non the less bonded. It is slow burn and beautifully done as they go through self discovery, learning hidden truths and learning to trust each other.
Overall this book felt nostalgic, magical and cozy.
I look forward to the next book in the series.

This was just okay. I liked the concept and the world was really interesting. However, some parts were kind of repetitive and dragged at times.

I honestly can’t remember too many details even after just a week of finishing which makes me realize it is a bit forgettable unfortunately. I do think if you like the worlds of Holly Black, you’ll probably enjoy this!

The audiobook was good. I didn’t love the narration of the male parts as his voice was too raspy that he sounded ill. But other than that it was good.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

The Forest King’s Daughter is the kind of fantasy that feels like stepping into a half-forgotten legend, steeped in ancient magic and whispered dangers. The world is lush, whimsical, and eerie, its bloodred forests and shadowed underground realms pulsing with an old, almost feral enchantment. Cassia and Zeru’s story winds through it like ivy, tangled with childhood memories, betrayal, and a slow-burn romance that shifts as unpredictably as the war raging between their people. Enemies to friends to enemies to something far more dangerous, their relationship is both the novel’s sharpest weapon and its beating heart. Add in luminous writing and strange, lovable supporting characters, enthralling creatures, and The Forest King’s Daughter is a rare blend of classic fantasy and modern romantasy. I highly recommend this one. And though some things were resolved in this volume, it’s clear that Zeru & Cassia’s story is not at an end. I can’t wait to see where their adventures takes them next!

I knew going into this, it was young adult. Honestly sad it is, because this would be fun in adult version too! (Not to say it wasn’t enjoyable as YA; it certainly was!)

The plot begins with a short flashback to give you the background of the story. After trust, it’s very linear, but quickly things go sideways. It’s fun, easy to follow, and sets us up for the grumpy sunshine romance we needed as well. It’s a really entertaining premise, with just a dash of steam. Cute, kissing only.

My biggest issue is that I hate miscommunication tropes 🙃 I just personally can’t deal with it; a little bit here and there about minor things is fine, but I get something like secondhand embarrassment from it. I just want to strangle the main characters multiple times and bang their heads against the wall. It is not for me, but to each their own.

Anyyyyway.

Everything else is really great, and I enjoyed most of this book! I would continue the series for sure as we’re left on a bit of a cliffhanger, but the epilogue softens that blow. Definitely a fun read, and the narrator has a delightful accent. I listen on 1.5 and she was very easy to understand and differentiated well between characters.

3 Stars ✨

Clean YA Fantasy

A Sylvan is fashioned from light and air.

A Dracu is a creature of earth and darkness.

Neither can thrive where the other abides.

**Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for this advanced audio copy of The Forest Kings Daughter by Elly Blake , in exchange for an honest review.**

Years ago, I fell in love with a series called the Frostblood Saga by Elly Blake. I thought it was enchanting and unique and ticked a lot of my boxes ✅. So when I saw Mrs Blake had written a new book, I was excited to get an audio ARC.

Her writing is whimsical and beautiful, she definitely has a way of transporting the readers into her worlds. The atmosphere of The Forest Kings Daughter was folksy and forest(y). She did a great job giving it the folklore vibe. The beginning of the book totally sucked me in and got me excited. I loved the dynamic of forbidden friendship/love between the two MCs. Along the way though, things began to get muddled up and I felt disconnected from the story - maybe due to not understanding the world building/lore completely. I did like the characters, but the romance (even being slow burn) seemed a bit rushed and not completely balanced. There was also a lot going on and felt overwhelming at times. I still enjoyed the read it was lush and atmospheric, and I look forward to reading the next in the series. I just hope some of the holes get filled in the next! Would recommend.

Audio Review 5/5 ✨

This book was narrated by Elenor Bennett. I thought she did a great job portraying this story and bringing the characters to life. Her ability to differentiate each character’s voice and personality made for a good reading experience.

Even though I enjoyed the audio narration, I personally think that maybe reading the physical copy may have helped me understand a bit more.

Content ⚠️
-no language
-no spice
-forced proximity, enemies to lovers, some kissing
-tame violence

Review: The Forest King’s Daughter by Elly Blake
Narrated by Eleanor Bennett

Overview:
In The Forest King’s Daughter, Cassia, a princess of Thirstwood, is thrown into a complex and dangerous situation after receiving a simple amber ring from Zeru, a boy from an underground realm. What begins as an innocent exchange between two children escalates into a conflict that shapes their futures. Years later, the two are thrust together again—Zeru intent on setting things right, and Cassia caught between her duty and the power of the ring. As they face new challenges, their dynamic relationship grows more layered, while a greater threat looms over both of their worlds.

Storytelling, Style & Atmosphere:
Elly Blake’s writing is vivid and well-paced, painting a rich and textured picture of a fantastical world. While the world-building is intricate, it remains accessible, immersing the reader without becoming overwhelming. The story’s tone walks the line between magical wonder and the darker undercurrents of political intrigue, giving it both heart and weight.
What I most was the gradual progression of the protagonists’ relationship. The emotional tension between Cassia and Zeru never feels rushed or forced. Instead of “love at first sight,” their connection deepens realistically, built on trust, doubt, and shared challenges. This makes their interactions not only engaging but believable.
However, one notable drawback was that the difficult challenges Cassia faced often seemed too easily resolved. Even when something went wrong, the negative consequences were quickly diffused a few pages later. This lack of lasting stakes made it feel as though there was never much to lose, which dampened the tension and lessened the impact of her trials.

Characters:
Cassia is a compelling heroine, torn between her royal duties and her personal feelings. Her strength and resilience are admirable, and her journey from a sheltered princess to a capable and independent figure is well-developed.
Zeru, on the other hand, offers an intriguing mix of guilt, loyalty, and determination. His motives are complex, and as the story unfolds, his vulnerability and sincerity shine through. Together, the two characters create an evolving dynamic that is central to the novel’s appeal..
The supporting cast also plays a crucial role in enriching the world and adding emotional depth. They provide both conflict and camaraderie, helping to shape the main characters’ journeys.

Listening Experience:
Eleanor Bennett’s narration is solid, delivering the story with clear diction and an even pace. While not outstanding, her performance is steady and helps to bring the world of The Forest King’s Daughter to life. She effectively differentiates the characters’ voices and emotions, though her delivery didn’t stand out as particularly memorable. Overall, a competent performance that complements the story without overshadowing it.

Strengths:
Realistic and well-paced character development
A unique and textured fantasy world
Believable tension and evolving relationships

Weaknesses:
Some aspects of the world-building may not resonate with every listener
The challenges faced by the protagonist often felt too easily overcome. Even when things went wrong, the consequences were quickly resolved a few pages later. As a result, there wasn’t much at stake, leaving the tension and sense of risk lacking.
While the story is compelling, it might not be a “love at first listen” for those looking for instant immersion.

Conclusion:
The Forest King’s Daughter offered so many elements I love in fantasy: a rich, atmospheric world that immediately drew me in. At first, I really thought this could become a new favorite. But as the story went on, I found myself enjoying it less and not feeling truly captivated. It had a lot of potential, but it just didn’t fully come together for me.
That said, I can see this story resonating with others who appreciate slow-burn fantasy romances and detailed world-building. Eleanor Bennett’s solid narration makes it an engaging listening experience. However, for me, it wasn’t strong enough to leave me eager for the next installment. I liked it, but I didn’t love it.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Would I recommend it? It depends.
Will I read the following books? Right now, probably not. Unfortunately, I didn’t feel compelled to find out what happens next.

The Forest King's Daughter is rich with story telling and world building. The beginning is captivating, and I love the idea of the story of Cassia and Zeru. Another reviewer was correct in saying this feels like it should have been two books instead of one. Character relationships seem to stall and then develop far too quickly. Pacing is off. Very little happens, and then tons of action all at once. This story is deeply layered, well conceptualized, and that makes this worth reading. The romance is full of angst and young love. It is a sweet YA romantasy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for this ALC to review!

Thank you very much to Hatchette Audio for providing me with the ARC of the audiobook of the Forest King’s Daughter.

I have a hard time with this one. I think the book might have been more enjoyable with a different narrator. I got lost so many times just because the authors voice was so wispy and almost too atmospheric. It felt like ASMR. I think some people may love this, but it made me sleepy.

Overall the book feels like it has unique ideas, but it didn’t quite catch. Again, it may have been improved with a different narrator or if I read a physical book instead. It also felt like there was very limited world building even though the book felt like it should have been deeper. The book was definitely atmospheric and lyrical, it just needed more substance to me.

Overall I feel like my experience would be much better without the audiobook. Hopefully once the book is released, I get a chance to try again.

The Forest King's Daughter by Elly Blake is so beautifully written you will instantly be drawn into the world of Thristwood forest. The characters are very well fleshed out and I instantly connected to Cassia, the FMC, and her want to be accepted. Zeru, our MMC, is a broody warrior that stole my heart and did I mention he's Cassia's sworn enemy.

The world and magic are interesting, a bloodthirsty forest sounds very intriguing, and a realm in the clouds sounds wonderous. This was a well paced novel and the surprises you'll find within will knock you socks off.

Eleanor Bennett, the narrator, did a fantastic job capturing Cassia's personality and the tone of the book. Her differentiation between all the characters was one of the best I've heard!

Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Audio for providing the eALC.

Rated 3.5 Stars

The narrator did a great job with The Forest King's Daughter. I loved listening to her but unfortunately this book didn't work for me. It had good bones - an interesting and intriguing world, magic system, characters and a compelling plot all the things necessary for a good story but sometimes they didn't fit well together. The pacing was off and parts of it was for lack of a better word boring. It was a pretty decent read. I found the connection between the main characters believable and I'm looking forward to seeing what the rest of this series brings.

The Forest King's Daughter by Elly Blake is the first book in the Thirstwood Series. As the story begins, Zeru provides a ring to his childhood friend Cassia. The ring, once slipped upon Cassia's finger, binds with her, and this innocent act starts a war between Zeru's Dracu people, those of the underworld, and Cassia's Sylvan people, those of the forests, their friendship is a casualty of war. Cassia, as it is explained to her, is meant to use the ring to defeat the enemy. The war stretches on for years and Cassia learns to channel the power of ring and earn the title, Deathbringer, to win the war for her people. The ring, however, has other ideas.

I love the world building in this story, and Zeru and Cassia as our MMC and FMC. Are they really enemies to lovers? It is really friends to misunderstood people on opposite sides of a conflict to lovers. That's just my opinion.

The narration for this story is wonderful - getting all the voices just right is Eleanor Bennett. The cover art is gorgeous, too.

I liked the story, the romance, the bond of sisters, the mythology and the world building in this story.
I need to thank #netgalley and Hachette Audio for my Advance Listener Copy in exchange for an honest review. This book is released on February 11, 2025 and I give it 4 stars.

firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc and an alc!

3.5 stars!

as much as i love the concept of friends-to-enemies-to-eventual-lovers(after relearning how to trust and become friends again!!) i’ve actually never read a book with the trope!

the forest king’s daughter opens with two children from different faerie races becoming friends; it all goes down hill after zeru, in his childish innocence, accidentally gifts cassia the ring that could destroy his entire race. the two are reunited years later when they are thrust together to prevent utter chaos and destruction amongst their people.

not to mention, i adore when authors depict their fae’s appearances as more whimsical and eery, reflecting their environment (ie horns and antlers that were in this book!) rather than the trend to make them perfectly beautiful creatures.

as for the narrator, i think they did a phenomenal job!

i’m excited for the next book in the series!

Ugh! There was a lot of good that was here, & I genuinely thought this might be a potential new fave for a minute in the beginning. Such wonderful folksy-faerie type writing, & I am The One who eats that stuff UP. But alas, I ended up here, definitely liking it but just feeling it didn’t totally hit the mark.

Cassia is, as the title suggests, the Daughter of the Forest King. She was gifted as a child an all powerful ring (think Lord of the Rings, but the ring is not so evil) that comes with the title of Deathbringer. The gift wasn’t given because she was foreseen to wear it or any other chosen one narrative reason: she was given it by a boy who, for all intents & purposes, should’ve been her enemy. This initial event sets the two on a path that is intertwined in more ways than they themselves wish or care to know.

The beginning of this book genuinely had me. The writing is beautiful & very Holly Black, Allison Saft, Rebecca Ross coded. Like a genuine piece of folklore that is as enchanting as the world that is written about. The premise is so strong, & I loved the relationship that was set up between Cassia & Zeru. But as we got to the middle & then to the end, it felt the story itself was a bit disjointed? Their relationship became a little rushed & just not quite delving into the more gradual slowburn. It actually confused me a little what was happening in the middle there. The events in this book felt as though they should’ve been separated into two different books because the plots from beginning to end didn’t seamlessly align. Such amazing ideas & stunning writing, though! I for sure would continue the series to see what else this author grows into & the stories that could come from this world.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed it still, but was just waiting for that little extra UMPH.

Thanks so much to NetGalley & Hachette Audio for this ARC!!

First of all, the cover of this book is gorgeous. I can't wait to see if any book boxes do any special editions of this book. The story itself draws you in from the beginning with relatable characters and incredible world building. If you like romantasy, go ahead and add this one to your2025 tbr. You wont be disappointed!