Lloyd-Jones, Emily. The Drowned Woods. Little Brown and Company, 2022. 978-0-316-50572-7. 343 p. $18.99. Grades 6-8.

Mer is the last remaining water diviner in Wales and people would kill, literally, for her powers. Once the prince bound Mer’s powers, and she is determined that she will never let that happen to her again. She has spent years out of his reach, and she had planned to stay that way when her old teacher finds her and offers her a proposition. Mer, with the help of a magical corgi, a cursed man, a lady thief, and her old teacher will poison the well that the prince draws his power from and put a stop to him once and for all. Mer is hoping that after this, she can relax and live her life; however, life in a young adult fantasy novel is never that simple. This is a stand alone young adult fantasy novel with a touch of romance that doesn’t overwhelm the plot of the story.

THOUGHTS: I have enjoyed every Emily Lloyd-Jones book that I have picked up. They are well written with unique plots, relatable characters, and satisfying conclusions. This would be a great book for any reader who doesn’t want a long drawn out series but loves fantasy novels.

Fantasy          Mary McEndree, Lehigh Valley Regional Charter Academy