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The Amber Owl

Heartwood, Book 1

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The Amber Owl

By: Juliet Marillier
Narrated by: Emma Drysdale
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About this listen

 Stasya lives in an isolated farming village on the edge of the mysterious Heartwood Forest with her unusual dog for company. Thought odd by the locals, she is tolerated for her rare gift with animals. Engaging with her fellow humans is difficult, with one exception: goatherd Lukas, who shares her love of storytelling. The peace of Heartwood is shattered when a group of soldiers descends, under orders from the Ruler of the Northlands. Their mission: to hack a path through the forest and find the fabled treasure said to lie deep within. The task is clearly impossible. The forest is alive with bears and wolves, and the old tales speak of evil spirits, monsters and uncanny beings. Nobody has ever gone deep into Heartwood Forest and returned safe and well. When Stasya raises her voice in protest, she is removed from her beloved home and transported to court – a different world. Word of her special skills has reached the Ruler's ears, and Lady Elisabeta has a job for her. But Stasya will not break her vow to protect the forest, even under the most appalling threat.©2025 Juliet Marillier (P)2025 Bolinda Publishing Epic Fantasy Historical Heartfelt

Critic Reviews

'Enchanting and wise!' (Kate Forsyth, bestselling and award-winning author of The Chain of Charm series)
'Gradually secrets are peeled away leaving the reader satisfied and hoping for the next in the duology. Marillier's world building and character development is outstanding.' (ReadPlus)
'An enchanting tale.' (on A Song of Flight) (Jacqueline Carey, New York Times bestselling author of Poison Fruit)
'Lush worldbuilding and well-rounded characters.' (on A Dance With Fate) (Library Journal)
All stars
Most relevant
I have loved every book Juliet Marillier has ever written and cannot wait for the next one. Her books always leave me inspired for the Life we can hopefully, even in a small way, contribute to.
All the good, enduring qualities.

what an author!

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I had no idea if the author or title before embarking on this book but was thoroughly pleased and disappointed I couldn’t download the next instalment straight away. A really good read, great characters and engaging plot. Worth reading

I really enjoyed this

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what a beautifully written story . I especially loved the depth of the characters and could relate to Stasya on so many levels. Juliet has such a way of telling a story that I actually feel part of it .. Can't wait for the next book in this series😃

beautifully written

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Wonderful read - works well as a stand alone, I'm looking forward to the next installment but it doesn't leave you hanging on a hook as do some 1st in series books. As with all her books, this one is a must for lovers of myth, stories, the natural world and the fae. Narration is good, but could use some tone/voice differences between characters to maximize the story and character building. Overall, Highly enjoyable listen.

A must for lovers of whimsy

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Juliette Marillier has been a favourite for years. This is my favourite, by far and I'm very much looking forward to the story's development.

exquisite storytelling

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