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wickedsescapism 's review for:

4.5
fast-paced

Summary
Where the Forest Meets the Stars is a mesmerizing and poignant novel that follows Joanna Teale, a young scientist reeling from the loss of her mother and her own battle with breast cancer. When a mysterious child named Ursa appears at her cabin, Jo's life is forever changed. As Jo and her reclusive neighbor Gabriel Nash work to uncover Ursa's past, they find themselves drawn into a world of wonder and magic.

Characters
Joanna Teale is a complex and relatable protagonist, whose struggles with grief and trauma make her a deeply human character. Ursa is an enchanting and mysterious child, whose presence sparks a sense of wonder and magic. Gabriel Nash is a brooding and introspective love interest, whose painful past and quiet strength add depth to the story.

Trigger Warnings
This novel contains mature themes, including grief, trauma, cancer, and abuse. However, these elements are handled sensitively and respectfully.

Favorite Quotes
"The stars are like diamonds scattered across the velvet expanse, and I feel small yet connected to everything." This quote captures the essence of Ursa's magical presence and the sense of wonder she inspires.

Overall Review
Where the Forest Meets the Stars is a breathtakingly beautiful novel that will capture your heart and imagination! Glendy Vanderah's writing is luminous and evocative, weaving together a poignant and magical story that explores the complexities of grief, trauma, and love. The characters are richly drawn and relatable, and the plot is both suspenseful and deeply moving. While some plot twists felt slightly predictable, the overall narrative is engaging and emotionally resonant. I highly recommend this novel to fans of magical realism, women's fiction, and stories about the power of love and redemption. Rating: 4.5/5 stars.