Rating: 4.5🌈

Once again, it’s a stunning cover that had drawn my attention to a book and author I hadn’t known about. Coil of Boughs, is the first in a two book dark fantasy series The Underforest by Penny Moss. It’s a fantastic read, full of complex, well written characters and great world building. 

The gorgeous cover gives the reader images of the characters and world inside but the imagery and fantasy elements that Moss creates are ones that make the story and themes of morality, redemption and love compelling and intriguing.

The description doesn’t really convey the breadth of this book.  It’s an epic dark fantasy adventure which starts with a world where the worst has already happened.  We work backwards, through memories, challenges , and conversations with others to explore the events that lead up to the current horrific situation.

It’s a fascinating approach, one where the reader isn’t always sure what to expect from Ryurikov, the complex, morally ambiguous main character whose redemption arc became the driving force for the narrative. Beside him is the magical, wonderful woods demon Awimak, who feeds on dreams. There’s a crafty, mysterious notorious witch who lives in a hut in a walking tree.  And so much more.  A endlessly burning land, terrifying creatures, and a world that needs saving. 

Also this is a dark fantasy so yes, there’s horror and bloodshed and death everywhere. Be warned. 

It ends not exactly on a cliffhanger but on the idea that another quest is about to start.  I can’t wait for this final book to be released.

Highly recommended for all lovers of dark fantasy.

“Cover Art by: Penny Moss”

Buy link

        Coil of Boughs (The Underforest Duology Book 1)

    

Blurb 

Skilled archer Ryurikov enjoys an unfettered life of thieving and debauchery. He wasn’t expecting to die at the hands of a witch while trying to steal from her. Neither did he expect to be revived by spirits with morally stringent demands. Or to be followed by a demon, hungry for his dreams. Luckily, Ryurikov has plenty of good dreams to trade in exchange for the demon’s help. He also possesses a wealth of denial about his past, his growing feelings for the demon, and the creatures slowly burning kingdoms to ashes. Too bad for Ryurikov, since he has no choice but to face all three.

• Publisher: Penny Moss (June 1, 2024)
• Publication date: June 1, 2024
• Language: English
• Print length: 312 pages