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359
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2018
YA
14-18 years
In The Hazel Wood, 17-year-old Alice Proserpine embarks on a perilous journey to the sinister Hinterland, the setting of her reclusive grandmother's enigmatic book, to rescue her mother after she is abducted. Along the way, Alice uncovers dark truths about her family and her own identity, revealing a supernatural connection to the tales within her grandmother’s famed literary work, Tales from the Hinterland. The novel contains graphic violence and themes of trauma and identity crises.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Fantastical
Adventurous
103,535 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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The Hazel Wood by Melissa Albert captivates with its dark fairy tale allure and lush prose. Readers praise its imaginative world-building and intricately woven plot. However, some criticize the pacing and found the ending less satisfying. Overall, it remains a compelling choice for fans of fantasy and mystery, despite mixed feelings about its conclusion.
Fans of dark fairy tales and intricate storytelling, along the lines of The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or Caraval by Stephanie Garber, will find much to love in Melissa Albert's The Hazel Wood. Readers who enjoy young adult fantasy with a mysterious, gothic twist are sure to be captivated.
103,535 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ella Proserpine
Alice’s mother, who has lived a nomadic life with Alice to escape a mysterious connection to another world. She is resourceful and devoted, striving to protect Alice.
Althea Proserpine
Mother to Ella, Althea is an enigmatic figure known for her mysterious book of tales. Her background in exploring otherworldly stories significantly impacts the narrative, though much remains shrouded in mystery.
Ellery Finch
A curious ally of Alice with a strong interest in Althea’s stories. He helps Alice in her quest and provides support and resources due to his connections.
Harold
Ella’s wealthy husband who marries her hoping for stability. He becomes embroiled in the story due to his marriage to Ella and has a strained relationship with Alice.
Audrey
Harold’s daughter from a previous marriage, who initially seems aloof and popular. Her relationship with Alice includes a layer of rivalry tempered by shared experiences.
Janet
A mentor figure and a guide to characters navigating the otherworld, offering wisdom and support from her own deep connections to the story’s world.
The Story Spinner
An allegorical figure within the narrative who manages and oversees the unfolding of stories. Her role is symbolic of the creative and deterministic forces present within storytelling.
359
Novel • Fiction
New York City • Contemporary
2018
YA
14-18 years
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