The Gnarlacre Novels
9 years to 18+
In the heart of a vast forest, Gnarlacre is home to Birdy and more than five hundred winged faeries. Unable to fly but possessing abilities not shared by her companions, Birdy is shaken to her core by a vision of the future. Terrified that she can do nothing to avert catastrophe, she keeps the vision secret.
When Gnarlacre’s protective Veil is breached, the faeries face death for the first time, and Birdy tastes despair until her new friend, Bod, offers a glimmer of hope. Unwittingly, Birdy starts an uncontrollable chain of events. Entering the First Elder’s mind, she realises Arcadia has been carrying a dark and dreadful secret of her own – a secret that has already wreaked havoc in one world and now threatens to do the same in Birdy’s.
The Gnarlacre faeries are alone and vulnerable. Arcadia is trapped in another world, and the sleeping elders cannot be woken. The Veil has vanished, and the colony faces exposure and attack. Then, Morgayne appears, wielding powerful magic broken many centuries ago. Gratefully, the colony accepts Morgayne’s protection, unaware that the elder will exact an unthinkable price from many of them.
Birdy has seen a horrifying vision in the frozen, sickening forest, but that is where she and Bod must venture in search of the original guardians of Morgayne’s magic – joined by an unexpected companion, the flightless pair set off from Gnarlacre. The elves prove to be calm, kind, welcoming and wise, but they are no fighters. Can Birdy ask them to face their ancient enemy – an enemy who defeated the Old Tongue once before?
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