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The Heart Stone Chronicles: The Swamp Fairy
The ASIN B01MU69MXT has been moved to the latest edition.
Fourteen-year-old Abigale Forester, recently orphaned and a ward of the State of Illinois moves from Chicago to Florida to live with her aunt, her last living relative. Magnolia Forester becomes her legal Guardian, and together they claim an ancient inheritance; land that belonged to Abby’s mother’s family for generations.
Holding onto the only piece of her mother Abby has left, a calcite pendant and her mother’s most sacred possession, she discovers the truth of her legacy. The pendant is more significant than she could possibly imagine. Forged from a giant mystical heart-shaped stone found on the very swamp land Abby now owns, it holds the power of her ancestors.
But with that power comes greater responsibility, one that pits her against Rafe Cobb, a greedy land developer, who will stop at nothing to own Abby’s swamp land.
As Abby learns to be part of a family again and explores her love of horses with friends, Savanna, and Blake, the swamp slowly gives up some of its secrets. She is summoned by a primeval nymph, who teaches Abby that her true destiny is to protect the nymphs from evil in an ever-changing modern world.
Can Abby save the swamp and the Naiad Nymph Clan from certain destruction before it is too late?
Fourteen-year-old Abigale Forester, recently orphaned and a ward of the State of Illinois moves from Chicago to Florida to live with her aunt, her last living relative. Magnolia Forester becomes her legal Guardian, and together they claim an ancient inheritance; land that belonged to Abby’s mother’s family for generations.
Holding onto the only piece of her mother Abby has left, a calcite pendant and her mother’s most sacred possession, she discovers the truth of her legacy. The pendant is more significant than she could possibly imagine. Forged from a giant mystical heart-shaped stone found on the very swamp land Abby now owns, it holds the power of her ancestors.
But with that power comes greater responsibility, one that pits her against Rafe Cobb, a greedy land developer, who will stop at nothing to own Abby’s swamp land.
As Abby learns to be part of a family again and explores her love of horses with friends, Savanna, and Blake, the swamp slowly gives up some of its secrets. She is summoned by a primeval nymph, who teaches Abby that her true destiny is to protect the nymphs from evil in an ever-changing modern world.
Can Abby save the swamp and the Naiad Nymph Clan from certain destruction before it is too late?
- GenresFantasy
252 pages, ebook
Published December 30, 2016
1 person is currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Colleen M. Chesebro
15 books88 followersColleen M. Chesebro grew up in a large city in the Midwest. Keen on making her own way in the world, she joined the United States Air Force after graduation to tour the world and find herself. To this day, that search continues.
An avid reader, Colleen M. Chesebro rekindled her love of writing poetry after years spent working in the accounting industry. These days, she loves crafting syllabic poetry, flash fiction, and creative fiction and nonfiction.
In addition to poetry books, Chesebro’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry.
She’s an avid supporter of her writing community on tankatuesday.com by editing the Sunflower Tanka Anthology, a yearly syllabic poetry anthology dedicated to tanka, tanka prose, & other experimental tanka forms.
In January 2022, Colleen founded Unicorn Cats Publishing Services to assist poets and authors in creating e-books and print books for publication. In addition, she creates book covers for Kindle and print book versions.
Chesebro lives in the house of her dreams in mid-Michigan, surrounded by the Great Lakes, with her husband and two (unicorn) cats, Chloe & Sophie.
Find Colleen at Tanka Tuesday at www.tankatuesday.com.
Find Colleen’s author blog at www.colleenchesebro.org.
An avid reader, Colleen M. Chesebro rekindled her love of writing poetry after years spent working in the accounting industry. These days, she loves crafting syllabic poetry, flash fiction, and creative fiction and nonfiction.
In addition to poetry books, Chesebro’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry.
She’s an avid supporter of her writing community on tankatuesday.com by editing the Sunflower Tanka Anthology, a yearly syllabic poetry anthology dedicated to tanka, tanka prose, & other experimental tanka forms.
In January 2022, Colleen founded Unicorn Cats Publishing Services to assist poets and authors in creating e-books and print books for publication. In addition, she creates book covers for Kindle and print book versions.
Chesebro lives in the house of her dreams in mid-Michigan, surrounded by the Great Lakes, with her husband and two (unicorn) cats, Chloe & Sophie.
Find Colleen at Tanka Tuesday at www.tankatuesday.com.
Find Colleen’s author blog at www.colleenchesebro.org.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 3, 2022
The Heart Stone Chronicles by Colleen M. Chesebro begins with a novel titled The Swamp Fairy. After reading another book by the author--about myths, magic, and fairies--I wanted to read a full-length story. It looks like this might be a new series, which is exciting because I really enjoyed this debut, even though I'm not a regular reader in the fantasy genre.
Abigale grew up in Chicago and always knew she had a connection to animals. As she grows up, she learns she can speak to them in her mind, and often, she has other new talents developing. Unfortunately, her mother passes away before they can have a legitimate conversation about the magic in their family. Abigale's father, who is addicted to alcohol and drugs, has disappeared. He is unable to take care of his daughter, so a neighbor and close family friend steps in. Luckily, Abigale's mother left behind a detailed estate plan: Abigale will move to Florida to live with her father's sister, and she must never sell the land that her family has owned for centuries. Once Abigale moves, she bonds with her aunt, develops new friends, and makes a few enemies because she won't approve the sale of the land to a neighbor. What's going on in this small town?
Chesebro has a fluid and easily readable style and tone to her writing. Though fantasy, it's not extensive. We know there is a world of fairies and magic. We witness moments of inexplicable situations. We love when the evil characters get their comeuppance with the assistance of a bit o' magic. But the core of the story is a young girl coming into her own after her parents die/disappear, learning to make new friends, and figuring out how to stop someone from hurting her. Young adults would definitely enjoy this book, but as an adult guy, I also found it pretty solid. It offers a lot of the same vibes I enjoy in a cozy mystery but adds an element of magic and hope for the future. Abigale is a lovely heroine, and she behaves very well for a teenager... then again, not all are wild and rambunctious as we often see in YA stories. I like the variation in this tale.
I do hope this becomes a series, as I'd love to explore what happens with Abigale's potential new love interest, her relationship with the fairies on her land, and the potential re-appearance of her father. I suspect there is a story there too... kudos for developing a new fan, Ms. Chesebro. Thanks for this excellent story.
Abigale grew up in Chicago and always knew she had a connection to animals. As she grows up, she learns she can speak to them in her mind, and often, she has other new talents developing. Unfortunately, her mother passes away before they can have a legitimate conversation about the magic in their family. Abigale's father, who is addicted to alcohol and drugs, has disappeared. He is unable to take care of his daughter, so a neighbor and close family friend steps in. Luckily, Abigale's mother left behind a detailed estate plan: Abigale will move to Florida to live with her father's sister, and she must never sell the land that her family has owned for centuries. Once Abigale moves, she bonds with her aunt, develops new friends, and makes a few enemies because she won't approve the sale of the land to a neighbor. What's going on in this small town?
Chesebro has a fluid and easily readable style and tone to her writing. Though fantasy, it's not extensive. We know there is a world of fairies and magic. We witness moments of inexplicable situations. We love when the evil characters get their comeuppance with the assistance of a bit o' magic. But the core of the story is a young girl coming into her own after her parents die/disappear, learning to make new friends, and figuring out how to stop someone from hurting her. Young adults would definitely enjoy this book, but as an adult guy, I also found it pretty solid. It offers a lot of the same vibes I enjoy in a cozy mystery but adds an element of magic and hope for the future. Abigale is a lovely heroine, and she behaves very well for a teenager... then again, not all are wild and rambunctious as we often see in YA stories. I like the variation in this tale.
I do hope this becomes a series, as I'd love to explore what happens with Abigale's potential new love interest, her relationship with the fairies on her land, and the potential re-appearance of her father. I suspect there is a story there too... kudos for developing a new fan, Ms. Chesebro. Thanks for this excellent story.
March 27, 2017
This book is a wonderful story about a beautifully spirited child, Abigale, who was orphaned at a young age when her mother died and consequentially, her father disappeared shortly afterward.
Abby was left in the capable and loving care of her mom's best friend and later sent to live with her dad's only living sister, uprooting her from Chicago to Pensicola, Florida, where she begins a new life and is taken back to the place of her mother's legacy - a gifted parcel of land Abby's mother left her. The land is filled with magical properties and fairies, and of course, an evil man who threatens to take away Abby's legacy at any cost.
The story will have you turning the pages, eager to keep up with Abby as well as an eye on her, hoping she can overcome the ominous doom of Rafe Cobb who will go to any lengths to take Abby's birthright land away from her.
Through the journey, we'll cheer for Abby's triumphs as she forms new friendships and deals with mean-spirited others who don't accept the new girl in town, and feel our hearts tugged at as Abby shares tender memories about her life. One can't help but root for Abby who deserves happiness in her life.
A perfect read and beautifully written characters who will draw us in, for young girls and boys alike, and anyone who loves to read a good story where we cheer for the underdog.
Noteworthy, to pay attention to the wonderful haikus written to introduce each chapter. This book was heartwarming and a most enjoyable read.
Abby was left in the capable and loving care of her mom's best friend and later sent to live with her dad's only living sister, uprooting her from Chicago to Pensicola, Florida, where she begins a new life and is taken back to the place of her mother's legacy - a gifted parcel of land Abby's mother left her. The land is filled with magical properties and fairies, and of course, an evil man who threatens to take away Abby's legacy at any cost.
The story will have you turning the pages, eager to keep up with Abby as well as an eye on her, hoping she can overcome the ominous doom of Rafe Cobb who will go to any lengths to take Abby's birthright land away from her.
Through the journey, we'll cheer for Abby's triumphs as she forms new friendships and deals with mean-spirited others who don't accept the new girl in town, and feel our hearts tugged at as Abby shares tender memories about her life. One can't help but root for Abby who deserves happiness in her life.
A perfect read and beautifully written characters who will draw us in, for young girls and boys alike, and anyone who loves to read a good story where we cheer for the underdog.
Noteworthy, to pay attention to the wonderful haikus written to introduce each chapter. This book was heartwarming and a most enjoyable read.
January 15, 2017
My full review is on my blog:
https://kyrosmagica.wordpress.com/201...
First of all, thank you to Colleen Chesebro for my ARC copy of The Heart Stone Chronicles – The Swamp Fairy in exchange for an honest review.
What’s not to love? I knew I would love The Swamp Fairy and I did. For me, it has two magical ingredients: a crystal pendant, ( I just love crystals!!!) and fairies! My only regret is that when I turned the last page of The Swamp Fairy I was left feeling bereft. I wanted more!!! Thank goodness Colleen will satisfy this sense of loss with the second book in this series…
I’d recommend The Swamp Fairy to young ‘tween’ girls who love the magical realm of fairies, and the power and mystery of crystals exemplified in Abigale’s pendant , a precious piece of the sacred calcite heart stone.
Gutsy young heroine Abigale Forester will do anything to save the swamp fairies and the Pink Sundew plants. Right from the start, it’s obvious that she’s no pushover, even though she has had to deal with more pain and loss than the average fourteen-year-old. After her mother Kathryn’s death and her drug addict father’s disappearance she is sent away to stay with her distant aunt Magnolia. It’s not just the weather that changes. Chicago girl Abigale’s new destination is Blackberry Ridge, Florida. She has to get to know her aunt, acquaint herself with a new school, meet new friends, Savanna Brook, Blake Barrett, and Cash Book, (Savanna’s brother.) But all that’s nothing compared with having to cope with the nasty jibes of the mean Kramer brothers, and it doesn’t end there. A greedy, ruthless land developer, Rafe Cobb is determined to get hold of the swamp land bequeathed to her by her deceased mother. Abigale refuses to buckle under Rafe Cobb’s threats even when she realises that he will go to the most desperate and deadly ends to get what he wants.
Abigale has a special relationship with the fairies, (the Naiad Nymph Clan,) a unique bond with horses, (especially Sand Dollar,) and the many other animals in the story. She can hear what they are saying, and can speak to them too!
This is such an enthralling, sweet story, with excitement a-plenty. There are beautiful descriptions of the swamp fairies, dragonflies, and hummingbirds. Plus the added bonus of beautifully crafted haiku poems at the start of each chapter.
Highly recommended.
https://kyrosmagica.wordpress.com/201...
First of all, thank you to Colleen Chesebro for my ARC copy of The Heart Stone Chronicles – The Swamp Fairy in exchange for an honest review.
What’s not to love? I knew I would love The Swamp Fairy and I did. For me, it has two magical ingredients: a crystal pendant, ( I just love crystals!!!) and fairies! My only regret is that when I turned the last page of The Swamp Fairy I was left feeling bereft. I wanted more!!! Thank goodness Colleen will satisfy this sense of loss with the second book in this series…
I’d recommend The Swamp Fairy to young ‘tween’ girls who love the magical realm of fairies, and the power and mystery of crystals exemplified in Abigale’s pendant , a precious piece of the sacred calcite heart stone.
Gutsy young heroine Abigale Forester will do anything to save the swamp fairies and the Pink Sundew plants. Right from the start, it’s obvious that she’s no pushover, even though she has had to deal with more pain and loss than the average fourteen-year-old. After her mother Kathryn’s death and her drug addict father’s disappearance she is sent away to stay with her distant aunt Magnolia. It’s not just the weather that changes. Chicago girl Abigale’s new destination is Blackberry Ridge, Florida. She has to get to know her aunt, acquaint herself with a new school, meet new friends, Savanna Brook, Blake Barrett, and Cash Book, (Savanna’s brother.) But all that’s nothing compared with having to cope with the nasty jibes of the mean Kramer brothers, and it doesn’t end there. A greedy, ruthless land developer, Rafe Cobb is determined to get hold of the swamp land bequeathed to her by her deceased mother. Abigale refuses to buckle under Rafe Cobb’s threats even when she realises that he will go to the most desperate and deadly ends to get what he wants.
Abigale has a special relationship with the fairies, (the Naiad Nymph Clan,) a unique bond with horses, (especially Sand Dollar,) and the many other animals in the story. She can hear what they are saying, and can speak to them too!
This is such an enthralling, sweet story, with excitement a-plenty. There are beautiful descriptions of the swamp fairies, dragonflies, and hummingbirds. Plus the added bonus of beautifully crafted haiku poems at the start of each chapter.
Highly recommended.
January 11, 2017
This book was recommended to me by a friend and I must admit that it’s not my usual kind of read. But I thought I’d give it a chance. Right off the bat, I had two favorite characters, Abby and Sam. The author drew me in with good writing, excellent pacing, and an antagonist that had me turning pages at an alarming rate. I had to find out what the dastardly villain would do next!
Our hero, Abby, has a lot to contend with. Her mother has died some time ago and her father has now disappeared. She is shipped off to a new town where she’ll have to start a whole new life. All this in the first few pages. But then her problems really begin.
My only regret is that I don’t have a young daughter to share this with. This is the perfect book for young girls, but so expertly written that even an old reprobate like myself can enjoy it.
One last thing, it wasn’t until I was well into the book that I started to pay attention to the haikus at the beginning of each chapter. I was too focused on the story. But once I did take the time to read them and realized their significance to the chapter that followed, I went back and read them all. What beautiful poetry indeed.
Our hero, Abby, has a lot to contend with. Her mother has died some time ago and her father has now disappeared. She is shipped off to a new town where she’ll have to start a whole new life. All this in the first few pages. But then her problems really begin.
My only regret is that I don’t have a young daughter to share this with. This is the perfect book for young girls, but so expertly written that even an old reprobate like myself can enjoy it.
One last thing, it wasn’t until I was well into the book that I started to pay attention to the haikus at the beginning of each chapter. I was too focused on the story. But once I did take the time to read them and realized their significance to the chapter that followed, I went back and read them all. What beautiful poetry indeed.
February 7, 2017
An extremely good debut paranormal story about Fairies. Fourteen-year-old Abby Forester has a secret she can't tell anyone. She can talk to animals, birds, reptiles, insects, and other species. She also owns a swamp in Florida. After her Mother died, she is sent to live with an Aunt in Pensacola, Florida. The most powerful man wants to buy the land and build houses on it. Abby can't sell the swamp as her heritage she must preserve the swamp for the fairies that live there. Answers must be found before Abby and her Aunt looses their lives. I highly recommend this book, especially for young adults.
March 26, 2017
The reader is introduced to fourteen-year-old Abby Forrester at her birthday party. With her mother deceased and her father missing, Abby is under the supervision of Mrs. Burger from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and lives with her mother’s best friend, Maxine, in Chicago. But Abby is about to move to Blackberry Ridge near Pensacola, Florida to live with her Aunt Magnolia. Before she leaves, Maxine gives Abby two of Abby’s mother’s possessions – a heartstone necklace of green calcite and the deed to a tract of land in Florida. But Abby, herself, has another gift which we discover when she meets Beauregard Louviere and his dog Sam on the bus to Pensacola.
The story is filled with well-developed, believable characters and lots of action to keep the reader turning the pages. Abby’s Aunt Magnolia who welcomes Abby into her home with open arms is a favorite. Savannah, who lives next door to Aunt Magnolia, becomes Abby’s best friend, the kind of friend every teen needs to have. Abby’s antagonist, Rafe Cobb, has evil for his middle name. Of course, there are swamp fairies, as the title suggests, but I won’t give anything away about them. Abby is a strong character, but even so, sometimes doubts crept in. I loved the way she managed to combat her fears with positive thinking. Abby is a kind and thoughtful girl who will work her way into your heart.
The plot is coherent and, though a lot was going on, I had no difficulty keeping track of the who, what when, or where of the story. With excellent pacing, I felt no lag in interest.
Don’t forget to read the beautiful haiku written by the author that precede each chapter.
I would recommend The Heart Stone Chronicles - Book 1: The Swamp Fairy to teens and young adults and anyone who enjoys a book with a bit of fantasy, fairies, and heartwarming characters. I am looking forward to the second book in The Heart Stone Chronicles series.
The story is filled with well-developed, believable characters and lots of action to keep the reader turning the pages. Abby’s Aunt Magnolia who welcomes Abby into her home with open arms is a favorite. Savannah, who lives next door to Aunt Magnolia, becomes Abby’s best friend, the kind of friend every teen needs to have. Abby’s antagonist, Rafe Cobb, has evil for his middle name. Of course, there are swamp fairies, as the title suggests, but I won’t give anything away about them. Abby is a strong character, but even so, sometimes doubts crept in. I loved the way she managed to combat her fears with positive thinking. Abby is a kind and thoughtful girl who will work her way into your heart.
The plot is coherent and, though a lot was going on, I had no difficulty keeping track of the who, what when, or where of the story. With excellent pacing, I felt no lag in interest.
Don’t forget to read the beautiful haiku written by the author that precede each chapter.
I would recommend The Heart Stone Chronicles - Book 1: The Swamp Fairy to teens and young adults and anyone who enjoys a book with a bit of fantasy, fairies, and heartwarming characters. I am looking forward to the second book in The Heart Stone Chronicles series.
January 14, 2017
I have never been into fairies, but this poignant tale of winged creatures and the humans selected to protect them was compelling.
Abigale Forester aka Abby the Fairy Whisperer,
Moves from Chicago to Blackberry Ridge, FL to live with her Aunt Magnolia after the death of her beloved mom. Abby's dad abandoned her for his drug addiction,unable to deal with his grief. His sister Magnolia takes in her niece and drama ensues.
Poor Abby has little time to mourn her mother, when she has to pick up her life and move to the unknown. Luckily her aunt is a loving, caring guardian.
Abby soon finds that she has a special gift of talking to all of the animals and the fairies of the land. The Calcite pendent given to her by her deceased mother holds special powers, as well. She learns that it is her birthright to save the fairies from the evil Rafe Cobb, threatening to destroy their realm.
Rafe Cobb is a businessman whose greed for Abby's inherited swampland, causes him to order her to be killed. The tables are turned and like Abby says the forest take care of its own.
She refused to sell her land because she knew "The wrath of the gods would bring about the complete destruction of humankind. All because of one man's greed for money."
The book was vividly told in a way that has the reader transported to the swamp. It was as if I could close my eyes and reach out to touch the beautiful green fairy with red about her neck and translucent wings. I could smell her scent of lavender, sandalwood and patchouli. The author took me on a magical journey through the swamp so familiar I could have sworn I had visited the land.
With my recent loss of my mom, the book pulled at my heart strings when Abby's mother appears to her and says "I am always here with you in your heart, Abby. Even if I do not walk this earth with you, your footprints are my footprints, and they have become our footprints."
Kudos to Colleen Chesebro for her first time out of the gate. You would think she has written 20 plus novels.
March 12, 2019
This mystical story is bound to capture your heart. Abigale Forester is only fourteen years old, recently orphaned, and has been sent to live with her Aunt Magnolia Forester, a woman she has never met, and is now her legal Guardian. Abigale was born with mystical gifts, inherited from her mother, along with a few hundred acres of swamp land that has been handed down for generations in her family.
This is no ordinary swamp. It is a place where mystical things happens, another realm, that is critical for the safety of mankind. Abigale has no idea what this has to do with her, but she will soon find out. In the meantime, a corrupt, greedy, and wealthy man as plans of his own to destroy the swamp and possibly Abigale and her aunt, as a form of revenge.
Danger is everywhere for Abigale as she tries to adjust to her new life. When the truth about the swamp legacy is revealed to her, Abigale is forced to make a decision about the swamp legacy and her choice is a dangerous one.
I highly recommend this mystical mystery that is so well written, by author Colleen M. Chesebro, that the story itself almost leaps off of the pages, right into your reality. It is that good. FIVE STARS
This is no ordinary swamp. It is a place where mystical things happens, another realm, that is critical for the safety of mankind. Abigale has no idea what this has to do with her, but she will soon find out. In the meantime, a corrupt, greedy, and wealthy man as plans of his own to destroy the swamp and possibly Abigale and her aunt, as a form of revenge.
Danger is everywhere for Abigale as she tries to adjust to her new life. When the truth about the swamp legacy is revealed to her, Abigale is forced to make a decision about the swamp legacy and her choice is a dangerous one.
I highly recommend this mystical mystery that is so well written, by author Colleen M. Chesebro, that the story itself almost leaps off of the pages, right into your reality. It is that good. FIVE STARS
February 11, 2018
I finished this read in the wee hours of the morning in lieu of a good night’s sleep. Chesebro has crafted a thoroughly delightful story about a fourteen-year-old orphan, Abby, who bears a sacred duty to protect a swamp inhabited by tiny fairies. The swamp fairies guard the Pink Sundew plants necessary for human healing, and at her death, Abby’s mother passed the responsibility for the swamp onto Abby. Rafe Cobb, a greedy tycoon, wants to develop the area and will stop at nothing including murder to have his way.
The book is perfect for pre-teens and young adult readers, and if my daughter wasn’t all grown up, I’d pass this read on in a second. It has everything she once enjoyed: magic, fairies, sweet boy-crushes, horses, the ability to talk to animals, and a teen hero. And, of course, there’s escalating pressure and danger as Abby refuses to sell her land. Except for Cobb, his henchmen, and a pair of mean brothers, the characters are charming. Abby has kind friends and a loving aunt who cares for her. The characters are three-dimensional, and the relationships have a dose of realistic conflict along with the support.
The pace is steady and builds to a stormy climax. The book is peppered with wisdom about personal growth, friendship, and family, as well as insights into the different kinds of fairies that inhabit the Earth, their role, and our responsibility as humans to safeguard the planet. In the back matter, the author briefly shares her own experience with a swamp fairy, which was the inspiration for the book. I can happily recommend this book to young readers who enjoy magic, fairies, and tales about growing up.
The book is perfect for pre-teens and young adult readers, and if my daughter wasn’t all grown up, I’d pass this read on in a second. It has everything she once enjoyed: magic, fairies, sweet boy-crushes, horses, the ability to talk to animals, and a teen hero. And, of course, there’s escalating pressure and danger as Abby refuses to sell her land. Except for Cobb, his henchmen, and a pair of mean brothers, the characters are charming. Abby has kind friends and a loving aunt who cares for her. The characters are three-dimensional, and the relationships have a dose of realistic conflict along with the support.
The pace is steady and builds to a stormy climax. The book is peppered with wisdom about personal growth, friendship, and family, as well as insights into the different kinds of fairies that inhabit the Earth, their role, and our responsibility as humans to safeguard the planet. In the back matter, the author briefly shares her own experience with a swamp fairy, which was the inspiration for the book. I can happily recommend this book to young readers who enjoy magic, fairies, and tales about growing up.
January 21, 2017
The Heart Stone Chronicles was a beautiful book to read. The writer's prose allowed you to flow with the story and that flow was never interrupted.
The main character Abby is a very pleasant surprise and I warmed to her immediately. The other characters are memorable also.
The villain of the piece is superbly written. I can not say more because it would be a spoiler.
The setting of the tale comes alive in your mind and all the details come together to paint a true picture of where it is set.
I would recommend this book to anyone from 8 to 98 and I am looking forward to reading book two.
The main character Abby is a very pleasant surprise and I warmed to her immediately. The other characters are memorable also.
The villain of the piece is superbly written. I can not say more because it would be a spoiler.
The setting of the tale comes alive in your mind and all the details come together to paint a true picture of where it is set.
I would recommend this book to anyone from 8 to 98 and I am looking forward to reading book two.
June 30, 2017
The Swamp Fairy is the first book in a series about Abby, who loses her mother at an early age, and is sent to live with her spinster aunt in Florida.
She inherits a calcite pendant that belonged to her mother, together with her gifts of claireaudience and clairvoyance. A series of mystical experiences follow as Abby listens to the swamp fairy, and helps to save the ancient swamp that her mother's family protected for generations. This book will appeal to all ages. It is both charming and beautifully written.
She inherits a calcite pendant that belonged to her mother, together with her gifts of claireaudience and clairvoyance. A series of mystical experiences follow as Abby listens to the swamp fairy, and helps to save the ancient swamp that her mother's family protected for generations. This book will appeal to all ages. It is both charming and beautifully written.
December 14, 2017
14 year old Abby’s life has fallen apart. Her mother is dead, her junkie father missing, presumed dead. And now she’s having to move from the bustling city of Chicago, the only home she’s known, to rural Florida to live with an aunt she’s never met. The only possession she clings to is the calcite pendent that belonged to her mother – a piece of a larger stone, though she doesn’t yet know it, that will lead her into the strange world of the swamp fairy and the destiny for which she was born.
This is a slow burn story, rich with emotion and detail, loving characters, a plot with depth and breadth, along with a side helping of magic. Abby must contend with human greed and her own uncertainties, whilst coming to terms with her unique ability to communicate with all animals. The bond she forms with Sand Dollar, the horse she learns to ride on, is beautifully depicted, right along with the reality of the equine survival instinct that can turn a frightened horse into an unresponsive runaway. Good things and frightening things happen to Abby as she tries to establish herself in this new life, and one of the things I loved the most about this book was that there are a host of genuinely nice, supportive people depicted right along with the mean and the evil ones.
The writing flowed along nicely (although there did seem to me to be an over-abundance of commas), and I had no trouble at all picturing the vivid scenery and action. Dialogue flowed well, and individual characters came across as distinct people with depth and history.
I did have a problem with one particular scene, largely because it depicted some details incorrectly, which probably won’t bother a lot of people, but it did me.
In the parade leading up to the final showdown, Abby and her friends perform a dressage routine on their horses, something they’ve practiced a few times in the last month or two. Some of the moves in their performance are ones serious riders (I am a professional dressage rider, so I speak with authority here) can spend their whole lives aspiring to and not attaining. One of the movements (Piaffe) is incorrectly described (the description fits Passage, not Piaffe), and ‘Levade’ is a movement so advanced only a handful of horses in the world can do it. Having these children perform it flawlessly had me shaking my head in disbelief.
I was also slightly disappointed by the ending because of two things. ***Spoiler alert*** Firstly, Abby is unconscious during the climax, so her problem is resolved by chance – it might have been magically influenced, but not directly by Abby. This is one of my personal bugbears – I really hope a heroine will find a way to win, not have success happen without any proactive input. Secondly, in the epilogue, Abby embraces the idea of moving to Colorado with enthusiasm, despite having just settled into Florida and bonded with new friends including her first boyfriend. I found that rather hard to swallow.
Overall, the journey was delightful, well-paced and engrossing. It was so pleasant to read a book filled with genuinely nice people. Abby is a gutsy, thoughtful and thoroughly principled girl – a great role model for her age group, and those things, along with the magical aspects and the emphasis on guarding nature, make this book a worthy read, despite my personal niggles.
This is a slow burn story, rich with emotion and detail, loving characters, a plot with depth and breadth, along with a side helping of magic. Abby must contend with human greed and her own uncertainties, whilst coming to terms with her unique ability to communicate with all animals. The bond she forms with Sand Dollar, the horse she learns to ride on, is beautifully depicted, right along with the reality of the equine survival instinct that can turn a frightened horse into an unresponsive runaway. Good things and frightening things happen to Abby as she tries to establish herself in this new life, and one of the things I loved the most about this book was that there are a host of genuinely nice, supportive people depicted right along with the mean and the evil ones.
The writing flowed along nicely (although there did seem to me to be an over-abundance of commas), and I had no trouble at all picturing the vivid scenery and action. Dialogue flowed well, and individual characters came across as distinct people with depth and history.
I did have a problem with one particular scene, largely because it depicted some details incorrectly, which probably won’t bother a lot of people, but it did me.
In the parade leading up to the final showdown, Abby and her friends perform a dressage routine on their horses, something they’ve practiced a few times in the last month or two. Some of the moves in their performance are ones serious riders (I am a professional dressage rider, so I speak with authority here) can spend their whole lives aspiring to and not attaining. One of the movements (Piaffe) is incorrectly described (the description fits Passage, not Piaffe), and ‘Levade’ is a movement so advanced only a handful of horses in the world can do it. Having these children perform it flawlessly had me shaking my head in disbelief.
I was also slightly disappointed by the ending because of two things. ***Spoiler alert*** Firstly, Abby is unconscious during the climax, so her problem is resolved by chance – it might have been magically influenced, but not directly by Abby. This is one of my personal bugbears – I really hope a heroine will find a way to win, not have success happen without any proactive input. Secondly, in the epilogue, Abby embraces the idea of moving to Colorado with enthusiasm, despite having just settled into Florida and bonded with new friends including her first boyfriend. I found that rather hard to swallow.
Overall, the journey was delightful, well-paced and engrossing. It was so pleasant to read a book filled with genuinely nice people. Abby is a gutsy, thoughtful and thoroughly principled girl – a great role model for her age group, and those things, along with the magical aspects and the emphasis on guarding nature, make this book a worthy read, despite my personal niggles.
June 24, 2017
This book contained absolutely everything I could wish for in a book including an orphan girl, a trained guide dog, horses, wonderful friends, a kind and loving Aunt and, best of all, fairies. The main character is an fourteen year old orphan girl, Abby, who moves to Florida to live with her unmarried and childless Aunt after living her entire life in the city of Chicago.
Abby has an unusual gift in that she can hear and communicate with all forms of animals and insects and, as she discovers soon into her new life, the ability to see and talk to fairies. Abby relocates with very little to her name other than a calcite pendant that is given to her just before she leaves Chicago by her Mother’s best friend and the papers to a piece of land that has been in her Mother’s family for generations. Abby soon discovers that this piece of swamp land, while seeming to be of little financial value in its current state, is the home to a clan of nymphs who play a vital role in ensuring the continued ability of humanity of fight diseases with medicinal plants. The land is, however, very enticing to an unethical and greedy land developer who seems determined to get his hands on Abby’s swamp regardless of anything and anyone standing in his way.
Abby gradually comes to realise that her gifts come with a great responsibility and that it is her destiny to protect the fairy clan that live in the swamp from the current threat.
The book contains some beautiful haikus and descriptive passages. It is not very often in modern books that you get to enjoy language that brings into play all of the senses in such a delightful way. A few of the passages that particularly enchanted me are as follows:
“Her heart beat rapidly in her chest when she glimpsed the butterflies and the resplendent dragonflies. She was ready for the cacophony of sound that vibrated inside her head. These were the communications of those who shared the swamp with her. And, yet, the acoustics overwhelmed her.”
“The late afternoon was hot, and the air felt thick. The smell of ripe grasses filled her nose. She spotted blue and red dragonflies darting in the field. Their wings sparkled in the sunlight as they perched on the wire fence sunning themselves.
I would recommend this book for children, particularly girls, from the ages of 11 years to 111.
Abby has an unusual gift in that she can hear and communicate with all forms of animals and insects and, as she discovers soon into her new life, the ability to see and talk to fairies. Abby relocates with very little to her name other than a calcite pendant that is given to her just before she leaves Chicago by her Mother’s best friend and the papers to a piece of land that has been in her Mother’s family for generations. Abby soon discovers that this piece of swamp land, while seeming to be of little financial value in its current state, is the home to a clan of nymphs who play a vital role in ensuring the continued ability of humanity of fight diseases with medicinal plants. The land is, however, very enticing to an unethical and greedy land developer who seems determined to get his hands on Abby’s swamp regardless of anything and anyone standing in his way.
Abby gradually comes to realise that her gifts come with a great responsibility and that it is her destiny to protect the fairy clan that live in the swamp from the current threat.
The book contains some beautiful haikus and descriptive passages. It is not very often in modern books that you get to enjoy language that brings into play all of the senses in such a delightful way. A few of the passages that particularly enchanted me are as follows:
“Her heart beat rapidly in her chest when she glimpsed the butterflies and the resplendent dragonflies. She was ready for the cacophony of sound that vibrated inside her head. These were the communications of those who shared the swamp with her. And, yet, the acoustics overwhelmed her.”
“The late afternoon was hot, and the air felt thick. The smell of ripe grasses filled her nose. She spotted blue and red dragonflies darting in the field. Their wings sparkled in the sunlight as they perched on the wire fence sunning themselves.
I would recommend this book for children, particularly girls, from the ages of 11 years to 111.
May 23, 2017
This is not my usual cup of tea, but I knew Colleen Chesebro's excellent work as a blogger for a couple years and was curious about her debut novel. I am glad I decided to read it! This was a wonderful fairy tale, and in terms of the protagonist’s social relations, it was also a sweet, utterly believable YA novel that really tugged at my heartstrings. I loved Abigale's relationship with her aunt in particular - it was terribly moving in places and the author's vivid descriptions and excellent prose made it so lifelike for me, as if it all took place before my eyes. It was all very human, very easy to relate to, what they had to go through as they got to know and trust each other, and I loved this in the story more than anything else. Abigale's relations with the local youngsters and the horse racing were a delight to explore and, of course, I found the fairies enchanting! I expect young teenage girls will most certainly lap up the whimsical fantasy elements in this story. The antagonist is a scary villain that I believe bordered on madness. His malice balances out perfectly the sweetness and innocence that surrounds Abigale in her world, other than that. I am really surprised this is a debut novel! It's very well-structured and told beautifully, a real feat for an emerging author. I am already looking forward to the next installment in this delightful tale! (I received a free copy and chose voluntarily to review it.)
January 31, 2017
***** A Sparkling Debut Novel
Apparently, this is a debut novel. Yet one certainly wouldn’t guess that, based on the book’s very appealing characters, a page-turning plotline, and lovely descriptions. The main protagonist, Abby, a parentless teenager who has inherited magical powers from her dead mother, was an immediate draw for me. Smart, quick with the comebacks, cautious yet tough in a pinch when it comes to standing up to bullies, she is a wonderful YA role model. And with the added dimension of her possessing the special ability to communicate with animals, this made for several very enjoyable scenes. For example, at one point she learns how to ride a horse by the steed’s own telepathic instructions to her at every step of the way. Another setting involved her listening to a forest filled with anxious animals screeching their warnings to her when imminent danger lurks nearby. When all is said and done, I totally got hooked into this book and can’t wait to read more from this writer. So, please do hurry up and get out a sequel, Ms. Chesebro! HIGHLY recommended.
Apparently, this is a debut novel. Yet one certainly wouldn’t guess that, based on the book’s very appealing characters, a page-turning plotline, and lovely descriptions. The main protagonist, Abby, a parentless teenager who has inherited magical powers from her dead mother, was an immediate draw for me. Smart, quick with the comebacks, cautious yet tough in a pinch when it comes to standing up to bullies, she is a wonderful YA role model. And with the added dimension of her possessing the special ability to communicate with animals, this made for several very enjoyable scenes. For example, at one point she learns how to ride a horse by the steed’s own telepathic instructions to her at every step of the way. Another setting involved her listening to a forest filled with anxious animals screeching their warnings to her when imminent danger lurks nearby. When all is said and done, I totally got hooked into this book and can’t wait to read more from this writer. So, please do hurry up and get out a sequel, Ms. Chesebro! HIGHLY recommended.
February 12, 2018
I highly recommend this book!
The descriptive writing by Colleen M. Chesebro is lush and outstanding! A perfect book for tweens/teens and adult women who love the magical, whimsical, and entertaining. There is a good active pace and flow to the story with drama and mystery to peek the interest of all ages of readers.
Abigail Forester feels that life has dealt her a cruel blow, which it has. But even in her weaker moments, through tears, her strength shines brightly as she wrestles with unfinished messages from her mother, who has recently died when the story opens. Abby's whole world is changing from the harsh, cold climate of Chicago to the heat and humidity of Pensacola, Florida. Her father is presumed dead as well from illegal, recreational drugs. Her mother's friend, Maxine, cared for the young teen as long as she could while Abby's mother was ill, but had to seek help through social services to have the child sent to her last remaining relative, her paternal Aunt Magnolia in Florida, a long, lonely bus ride. Abby meets a school teacher who tells her a little about the small, rural area she is going to, Blackberry Ridge, which is where both of Abby's parents are from. The school teacher, Mr. Louviere, is blind with a seeing-eye dog, Sam. Abby had learned from her mother that they both have the ability to communicate with animals, birds, and insects. When a crisis arises at a bus stop, Sam and Abby can prevent a crime from happening, which could have left Mr. Louviere injured or even worse.
As Abby settles into her new life, she makes friends, gets to know her Aunt, and finds out about the swamp land that is hers, in the care of her Aunt until Abby reaches legal age. Problems arise as a local investor and construction company owned by millionaire, Rafe Cobb, who seems to stop at nothing to acquire Abby's property. Abby also has her first experience with a fairy, Castalia, and finds out the importance of the land, her mother's family, and her heritage. At the same time, Abby is having disturbing dreams about the swamp land.
All the elements are in place for a mysterious, magical story told in poetic prose with dramatic flair.
"Well done," to Colleen M. Chesebro for an incredible first book. This kicks off a series of magical faeries and a new teen heroine, Abigail Forester, with her delightful Aunt Magnolia. This is a must-read, inspirational series for teens and the young at heart!
The descriptive writing by Colleen M. Chesebro is lush and outstanding! A perfect book for tweens/teens and adult women who love the magical, whimsical, and entertaining. There is a good active pace and flow to the story with drama and mystery to peek the interest of all ages of readers.
Abigail Forester feels that life has dealt her a cruel blow, which it has. But even in her weaker moments, through tears, her strength shines brightly as she wrestles with unfinished messages from her mother, who has recently died when the story opens. Abby's whole world is changing from the harsh, cold climate of Chicago to the heat and humidity of Pensacola, Florida. Her father is presumed dead as well from illegal, recreational drugs. Her mother's friend, Maxine, cared for the young teen as long as she could while Abby's mother was ill, but had to seek help through social services to have the child sent to her last remaining relative, her paternal Aunt Magnolia in Florida, a long, lonely bus ride. Abby meets a school teacher who tells her a little about the small, rural area she is going to, Blackberry Ridge, which is where both of Abby's parents are from. The school teacher, Mr. Louviere, is blind with a seeing-eye dog, Sam. Abby had learned from her mother that they both have the ability to communicate with animals, birds, and insects. When a crisis arises at a bus stop, Sam and Abby can prevent a crime from happening, which could have left Mr. Louviere injured or even worse.
As Abby settles into her new life, she makes friends, gets to know her Aunt, and finds out about the swamp land that is hers, in the care of her Aunt until Abby reaches legal age. Problems arise as a local investor and construction company owned by millionaire, Rafe Cobb, who seems to stop at nothing to acquire Abby's property. Abby also has her first experience with a fairy, Castalia, and finds out the importance of the land, her mother's family, and her heritage. At the same time, Abby is having disturbing dreams about the swamp land.
All the elements are in place for a mysterious, magical story told in poetic prose with dramatic flair.
"Well done," to Colleen M. Chesebro for an incredible first book. This kicks off a series of magical faeries and a new teen heroine, Abigail Forester, with her delightful Aunt Magnolia. This is a must-read, inspirational series for teens and the young at heart!
May 11, 2017
A Charming Story for Middle Grades and Younger Teens
This tale is both a fantasy about fairies and a realistic story of a plucky orphaned 14-year-old girl who moves from Chicago to Florida to live with her aunt. For me a principal charm of the story lies in the vivid, colorful, and mysterious descriptions of Abby’s dream visions and of the Florida swamp that contains the fairy world. Here is an example:
“She felt the same tingle of energy as she has felt before. The smell of ripe grasses filled her nose. She spotted blue and red dragonflies darting in the field. Their wings sparkled in the sunlight as they perched on the wire fence sunning themselves.”
And here is another example:
“She could see trees towering in the blackness. Shadowy stumps jutted up through the dark watery depths below her feet.
The air, brimming with the sound of croaking frogs, chirping crickets, and the hum of mosquitoes, caught her off guard. Their voices in her ears blended into a heavenly chorus which filled her with wonderment.”
The haiku poetry that heads up each chapter adds a lot to the effectiveness of the book. And I particularly liked the episode where the murder of crows fly out to protect our heroine. Furthermore, I think any book that includes the ability to communicate with animals (particularly horses and dogs) will captivate most youngsters.
One character that I didn’t find very believable was Rafe Cobb, but taken altogether I think this tale makes a fine read for the age group for which it was intended.
This tale is both a fantasy about fairies and a realistic story of a plucky orphaned 14-year-old girl who moves from Chicago to Florida to live with her aunt. For me a principal charm of the story lies in the vivid, colorful, and mysterious descriptions of Abby’s dream visions and of the Florida swamp that contains the fairy world. Here is an example:
“She felt the same tingle of energy as she has felt before. The smell of ripe grasses filled her nose. She spotted blue and red dragonflies darting in the field. Their wings sparkled in the sunlight as they perched on the wire fence sunning themselves.”
And here is another example:
“She could see trees towering in the blackness. Shadowy stumps jutted up through the dark watery depths below her feet.
The air, brimming with the sound of croaking frogs, chirping crickets, and the hum of mosquitoes, caught her off guard. Their voices in her ears blended into a heavenly chorus which filled her with wonderment.”
The haiku poetry that heads up each chapter adds a lot to the effectiveness of the book. And I particularly liked the episode where the murder of crows fly out to protect our heroine. Furthermore, I think any book that includes the ability to communicate with animals (particularly horses and dogs) will captivate most youngsters.
One character that I didn’t find very believable was Rafe Cobb, but taken altogether I think this tale makes a fine read for the age group for which it was intended.
February 8, 2021
“The Heart Stone Chronicles” is a magical read for upper middle grade and the young at heart. Fourteen-year-old Abby is in the Chicago foster system after her drug-addicted father abandons her. She is sent to her only living relative, her father’s sister, who lived in rural Florida. The story began for me when she set foot in her new town. I fell in love with the area, wondering if I’d like to live there. I was glad her aunt turned out to be nice, and Abby made a friend right away. Then Abby finds out she’s inherited swamp land from her mother, who had died a few years before, and someone has put in an offer to buy it. The relationship between Abby and her aunt was heartwarming, and I liked her new best friend, Savannah. The local bullies seemed realistic, and Mr. Cobb, who had to have Abby’s swamp, no matter what it took. That was a bit terrifying how far he’d go. My favorite part of the story was Abby’s gift to communicate with animals. Never ridden a horse, Abby’s ability allowed her and the horse to bond, so she could easily ride him. I could almost feel the wind blowing my hair as Abby rode across the field on her horse. Meeting the swamp fairies was beautifully illustrated and captivating. This story was well-paced, with a gentle reminder about the importance of nature that I appreciated. I recommend this to all who love fairies, which I do. I’m hoping there will be another book to continue exploring with Abby and the fairies.
March 22, 2018
A beautifully told tale about an orphaned teen, Abigale Forester, who is uprooted from her home in Illinois after her mother’s death and her father’s disappearance. She is sent to live with her Aunt Magnolia in Florida where she is given a plot of land owned by her mother. This land is more than just a swamp.
Abigale realizes the value of this plot of land when she experiences its magic. It is inhabited by fairies and plants that have magical healing properties. She soon realizes through some ethereal visits from some of these fairies on the land that her role is to protect the swamp and all its creatures and plants from harm.
When Abigale and her aunt receive threats to their lives if they do not sell the land, Abby turns to friends for support. Abby’s mother gifted to her a magical necklace made from the calcite stone in the swamp to give her strength to do what she needs to do in her role as protector.
The author has created a lovely tale of the magic and mystery of fairies. This is an enjoyable read not only for middle-graders, preteens and young adult girls but also for adults like me. I thoroughly enjoyed this fascinating tale and look forward to more in this series. This talented author enables the reader to see the fairies as real creatures who are benevolent and only want to help mankind.
Abigale realizes the value of this plot of land when she experiences its magic. It is inhabited by fairies and plants that have magical healing properties. She soon realizes through some ethereal visits from some of these fairies on the land that her role is to protect the swamp and all its creatures and plants from harm.
When Abigale and her aunt receive threats to their lives if they do not sell the land, Abby turns to friends for support. Abby’s mother gifted to her a magical necklace made from the calcite stone in the swamp to give her strength to do what she needs to do in her role as protector.
The author has created a lovely tale of the magic and mystery of fairies. This is an enjoyable read not only for middle-graders, preteens and young adult girls but also for adults like me. I thoroughly enjoyed this fascinating tale and look forward to more in this series. This talented author enables the reader to see the fairies as real creatures who are benevolent and only want to help mankind.
July 13, 2017
The Heart Stone Chronicles: The Swamp Fairy by Colleen M Chesebro is the story of a young teenager Abigale who carries a big responsibility on her shoulders, as she has to carry forward the legacy of her mother, believed to be a descendent of Native Americans. The land she has inherited from her mother is precious for reasons she doesn’t want to share even with her paternal aunt. She shines through the struggle to keep the land at all costs despite the sinister designs of Rafe Cobb and refuses to buckle under the pressure from her friends and aunt.
A carefully crafted character, Abby exemplifies the values to live by. Her magical bonding and connection with the animals and birds symbolize a profound message that the writer wishes to convey to mankind that we have to live in harmony with each other to understand why we have been placed here. What I found amazing in this story is how fantasy and reality merge to convey a subtle message of conserving nature and all the flora and fauna in their natural surroundings. It is at this point that this book rises above just ‘the swamp fairy’ tale into a story of human interest, screaming to be heard and pondered.
A carefully crafted character, Abby exemplifies the values to live by. Her magical bonding and connection with the animals and birds symbolize a profound message that the writer wishes to convey to mankind that we have to live in harmony with each other to understand why we have been placed here. What I found amazing in this story is how fantasy and reality merge to convey a subtle message of conserving nature and all the flora and fauna in their natural surroundings. It is at this point that this book rises above just ‘the swamp fairy’ tale into a story of human interest, screaming to be heard and pondered.
June 13, 2017
Fans of fantasy and young adults will find something interesting here. There's something new with the fairies and the teenage girl against one evil. Although some of the plot can easily be guessed, it is a fun read and the characters are touching. For me, it lacks a little something more to make it truly original but maybe that will come with the rest of the series. I remain open to what comes next!
July 8, 2017
Captivating
What a captivating and sweet story. I love the world and magic that has been conjured. I could not stop reading even though there are passages that are more telling than showing. However, that show off between the main character and her opponent makes fully up for it.
What a captivating and sweet story. I love the world and magic that has been conjured. I could not stop reading even though there are passages that are more telling than showing. However, that show off between the main character and her opponent makes fully up for it.
February 9, 2017
The story centers around Abigale, a young teen uprooted from Chicago to live with her aunt in Florida. Insecure about starting over, she is already aware of her uncanny psychic abilities but is reluctant to understand her mother’s legacy, left to her in the physical form of a green calcite pendant. Surrounded by friends and extended family, she uncovers a complicated and unlikely destiny and fights hard to preserve it.
Imagine being new in town and holding on to startling secrets—the ability to telepathically communicate with animals, as well as the swamp’s very treasures—the sacred calcite stone, the rare, pink sundew plants, and the fairies. Explaining these revelations to anyone would certainly make Abby more of an outcast than she already feels.
One can’t help empathize with Abby as she navigates her own insecurities while slowly discovering her growing strengths and staying true to the fierce love for her friends, family and, of course, the fairies.
Chesebro’s characters are carefully crafted and lend relevance to the story as it unfolds. The town’s welcoming teenagers who quickly befriend Abby are artfully tempered against the bullies who treat her with disdain.
Even if fantasy is not your genre and fairies aren’t your “thing,” they make a minimal appearance here, but enough to generate the lore around which the hub of this charming story revolves.
Chesebro’s setting of the swamp area in gulf-coast Florida is deftly and descriptively written where readers can feel the humidity of the warm sunny days as well as hear the buzz and hum of the insects associated with the South.
The author includes her own haikus that also set the tone for each chapter. “A foggy sunrise, winding a path towards day, the sunlight triumphs.”
The story moves along at a quick pace with a satisfying ending that sets up the plot for the next book in the series. Although this book is geared toward teens and young adults, I recommend this book and series for anyone who cares about the environment, relationships, and real family values.
Imagine being new in town and holding on to startling secrets—the ability to telepathically communicate with animals, as well as the swamp’s very treasures—the sacred calcite stone, the rare, pink sundew plants, and the fairies. Explaining these revelations to anyone would certainly make Abby more of an outcast than she already feels.
One can’t help empathize with Abby as she navigates her own insecurities while slowly discovering her growing strengths and staying true to the fierce love for her friends, family and, of course, the fairies.
Chesebro’s characters are carefully crafted and lend relevance to the story as it unfolds. The town’s welcoming teenagers who quickly befriend Abby are artfully tempered against the bullies who treat her with disdain.
Even if fantasy is not your genre and fairies aren’t your “thing,” they make a minimal appearance here, but enough to generate the lore around which the hub of this charming story revolves.
Chesebro’s setting of the swamp area in gulf-coast Florida is deftly and descriptively written where readers can feel the humidity of the warm sunny days as well as hear the buzz and hum of the insects associated with the South.
The author includes her own haikus that also set the tone for each chapter. “A foggy sunrise, winding a path towards day, the sunlight triumphs.”
The story moves along at a quick pace with a satisfying ending that sets up the plot for the next book in the series. Although this book is geared toward teens and young adults, I recommend this book and series for anyone who cares about the environment, relationships, and real family values.
January 31, 2017
While this is not my usual genre, a friend recommended it for my 'tween nieces and I heartily agree.
This tender-hearted female population is often massively fretful of their place in the world, even within their own families, neighborhoods, and schools. But not fourteen-year-old Abigale Forester, the protagonist whose name forecasts the plot. She's a crusader from the get-go and, despite the fact that she's recently moved from urban Chicago to a small community in Florida, she acclimates pluckily, with aplomb.
She's nice, not kick-ass like Katniss. She's an uncommon girl who, though she misses her mother, knows she's well-loved. She's a heroine with many guardians, which assures us that she is worthy of the mantle, worthy of support to counter act the evil of encroachment of valuable land. Land where fairies abound and link her to her mother, showing Abigale her heart and place.
The book is not overlong, so attention spans won't be challenged. It's magical immersion and young ladies would adore it = perfect birthday gift!
The tale of noble quest, with the crusader flanked by all of the angst of a teen's everyday world, is lush with sensory detail, it's imagery equal to and evocative of the transcendent movie, Avatar. I could see it, taste it, smell it, feel the scenes of each page. Lyric prose written by a poet, which I know Colleen to be. This book was both a visual and aural treat.
The melodrama was believable and its message was clear: save the land. Even a teen can do it.
There are bullies, adult and young, and there are sidekicks. There's the requisite boyfriend and first kiss.
There were moments of whimsy to balance the drama. Colleen's touch was light and lovely throughout. High school English teachers and librarians should recommend this book because I think that young readers will be so entranced that they'll willingly run to the dictionary to learn some of the nuanced words. Colleen didn't dumb down the reading level anymore than she dumbed down the characters and plot.
The protagonist is an orphan, which many teens feel even when surrounded by family and friends. But Abigale doesn't wallow in self-pity, always moving forward to model this behavior for teens. She's lonely but that doesn't last long...again, nice begets nice.
This tender-hearted female population is often massively fretful of their place in the world, even within their own families, neighborhoods, and schools. But not fourteen-year-old Abigale Forester, the protagonist whose name forecasts the plot. She's a crusader from the get-go and, despite the fact that she's recently moved from urban Chicago to a small community in Florida, she acclimates pluckily, with aplomb.
She's nice, not kick-ass like Katniss. She's an uncommon girl who, though she misses her mother, knows she's well-loved. She's a heroine with many guardians, which assures us that she is worthy of the mantle, worthy of support to counter act the evil of encroachment of valuable land. Land where fairies abound and link her to her mother, showing Abigale her heart and place.
The book is not overlong, so attention spans won't be challenged. It's magical immersion and young ladies would adore it = perfect birthday gift!
The tale of noble quest, with the crusader flanked by all of the angst of a teen's everyday world, is lush with sensory detail, it's imagery equal to and evocative of the transcendent movie, Avatar. I could see it, taste it, smell it, feel the scenes of each page. Lyric prose written by a poet, which I know Colleen to be. This book was both a visual and aural treat.
The melodrama was believable and its message was clear: save the land. Even a teen can do it.
There are bullies, adult and young, and there are sidekicks. There's the requisite boyfriend and first kiss.
There were moments of whimsy to balance the drama. Colleen's touch was light and lovely throughout. High school English teachers and librarians should recommend this book because I think that young readers will be so entranced that they'll willingly run to the dictionary to learn some of the nuanced words. Colleen didn't dumb down the reading level anymore than she dumbed down the characters and plot.
The protagonist is an orphan, which many teens feel even when surrounded by family and friends. But Abigale doesn't wallow in self-pity, always moving forward to model this behavior for teens. She's lonely but that doesn't last long...again, nice begets nice.
April 19, 2017
Fourteen year old, Abby Forester is an orphan and lives in an apartment under the care of Maxine, her landlady, since her mom passed away. Her dad is missing and assumed dead. Her social worker Mrs. Burger informs them that her Aunt Magnolia Forester in Blackberry Ridge, Florida is her legal guardian. Aunt Magnolia is Abby's older sister. and only living relative.
Maxine gives Abby a heart shaped necklace made out of green calcite that had belonged to her mom. This necklace has special powers and Maxine had hidden it from Abby's dad because he would have hawked it for cash.
After a birthday celebration, Abby boards the bus and leaves Illinois to begin a new life in Florida. Abby has unusual skills that she doesn't know how to manage. There isn't anyone to discuss these things with. She is a fairy whisper and can also mentally communicate with animals. She has strange dreams which confuses her more. Her mom passed away before she had the chance to explain everything to her in more detail.
Mysterious things start to happen before she reaches her destination.
This book is full of action from beginning to end. This is a book for anyone who likes fantasy and adventure. Believing in the wee folk also helps. I was hooked in the first chapter as I followed Abby on one adventure to the next. The author keeps you guessing from the first chapter until the end.
Maxine gives Abby a heart shaped necklace made out of green calcite that had belonged to her mom. This necklace has special powers and Maxine had hidden it from Abby's dad because he would have hawked it for cash.
After a birthday celebration, Abby boards the bus and leaves Illinois to begin a new life in Florida. Abby has unusual skills that she doesn't know how to manage. There isn't anyone to discuss these things with. She is a fairy whisper and can also mentally communicate with animals. She has strange dreams which confuses her more. Her mom passed away before she had the chance to explain everything to her in more detail.
Mysterious things start to happen before she reaches her destination.
This book is full of action from beginning to end. This is a book for anyone who likes fantasy and adventure. Believing in the wee folk also helps. I was hooked in the first chapter as I followed Abby on one adventure to the next. The author keeps you guessing from the first chapter until the end.
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