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Out of the Woods
17-year-old Zaidyn Mitchell thinks being known as a book nerd is weird enough—until he wakes up on his bedroom ceiling.
A newbie-weird-wizard-extraordinaire—Zaidyn must navigate his newfound identity, learn to fit in with his fellow freaks, and avoid scaring away Piper Duke, the girl of his dreams.
Thinking to impress her, he agrees to help Piper’s father promote a project for a new library in a fairytale-like wooded area outside of town—but Project-Impress-Piper-With-a-Library backfires as Piper, along with his parents, strives to protect the wooded land.
The rules for the magical community are simple: avoid discovery and keep to your own kind. Despite warnings from friends and foes, Zaidyn pursues a relationship with the normal human Piper, earning them both the ire—and retaliation—of the ones in charge.
Zaidyn seeks answers. Who really owns the woods? Why is someone so bent on destroying them? And what are his parents and the other magical adults hiding in there?
As he grows closer to the answers—and to Piper—the outside pressure mounts, building toward a conclusion that makes Zaidyn wonder if they will ever truly be…
…out of the woods.
A newbie-weird-wizard-extraordinaire—Zaidyn must navigate his newfound identity, learn to fit in with his fellow freaks, and avoid scaring away Piper Duke, the girl of his dreams.
Thinking to impress her, he agrees to help Piper’s father promote a project for a new library in a fairytale-like wooded area outside of town—but Project-Impress-Piper-With-a-Library backfires as Piper, along with his parents, strives to protect the wooded land.
The rules for the magical community are simple: avoid discovery and keep to your own kind. Despite warnings from friends and foes, Zaidyn pursues a relationship with the normal human Piper, earning them both the ire—and retaliation—of the ones in charge.
Zaidyn seeks answers. Who really owns the woods? Why is someone so bent on destroying them? And what are his parents and the other magical adults hiding in there?
As he grows closer to the answers—and to Piper—the outside pressure mounts, building toward a conclusion that makes Zaidyn wonder if they will ever truly be…
…out of the woods.
314 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2020
1126 people want to read
About the author
B.B. Swann
14 books60 followersB.B. Swann is a mother of three young adults, a wife (of another big kid but don’t tell him she said that), and a 25+ year veteran teacher of little firsties. She has all the age groups covered and draws on their influence when writing her books. Picture book, young adult, new adult, and beyond, they all have one thing in common—life experiences, both the good and the challenging.
She graduated from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL with her Bachelor’s of Ed. in Early Childhood Education, then left the corn capital to receive her Masters of Ed. in Language and Literacy from National Louis University, in Chicago.
Originally from Winthrop Harbor, Illinois (go ahead, look it up, it’s a real place) she now resides in an Illinois suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. Go Cards! is her new chant, but Bear Down will always rule her heart. She loves to run, binge watch Netflix health documentaries, and talk to her three kids when they have a minute to spare.
Most nights you can find her reading or writing into the wee hours. She believes in the almighty power of caffeine and battling old age with purple hair and lots of sarcasm.
She graduated from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL with her Bachelor’s of Ed. in Early Childhood Education, then left the corn capital to receive her Masters of Ed. in Language and Literacy from National Louis University, in Chicago.
Originally from Winthrop Harbor, Illinois (go ahead, look it up, it’s a real place) she now resides in an Illinois suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. Go Cards! is her new chant, but Bear Down will always rule her heart. She loves to run, binge watch Netflix health documentaries, and talk to her three kids when they have a minute to spare.
Most nights you can find her reading or writing into the wee hours. She believes in the almighty power of caffeine and battling old age with purple hair and lots of sarcasm.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 25, 2020
Swann’s compelling latest chronicles the tale of a teenager who is forced to grapple with his newfound identity.
17-year-old Zaidyn Mitchell is a fairly normal teen until he finds himself floating next to his bedroom ceiling. His transformation means Zaidyn cannot fall in love with Piper, the girl of his dreams. As the couple becomes close, they find themselves earning the ire and retaliation of the ones in charge. After a project for a new library in the town draws people against each other, the couple must uncover long-kept secrets of the magical world.
Drawing on elements of urban fantasy (hidden secrets, an intriguing setting, wizards, demons, and dryads among others), Swann blends mystery and humor to a dash of political intrigue and create a fast-paced, entertaining tale.
The thorough characterization and witty dialogue keep readers turning pages nonstop. The ending, though not a cliffhanger, will make readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
This is a thorough fun and a deliciously readable urban fantasy.
17-year-old Zaidyn Mitchell is a fairly normal teen until he finds himself floating next to his bedroom ceiling. His transformation means Zaidyn cannot fall in love with Piper, the girl of his dreams. As the couple becomes close, they find themselves earning the ire and retaliation of the ones in charge. After a project for a new library in the town draws people against each other, the couple must uncover long-kept secrets of the magical world.
Drawing on elements of urban fantasy (hidden secrets, an intriguing setting, wizards, demons, and dryads among others), Swann blends mystery and humor to a dash of political intrigue and create a fast-paced, entertaining tale.
The thorough characterization and witty dialogue keep readers turning pages nonstop. The ending, though not a cliffhanger, will make readers eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
This is a thorough fun and a deliciously readable urban fantasy.
October 2, 2020
I picked this up because I’d read books by Swann before and couldn’t wait to jump into a new story and new world and I was not disappointed. The world is engaging from the first page, the idea of a normal teenage boy being faced with something brand new, and yet more secrets behind held back. The characters were so complex and well rounded, and I couldn’t help but cheer on for the young couple. I loved the way this book dealt with some issues, and the mystery element left me guessing and desperate for more. Overall an amazing read and one I recommend for those who love the paranormal with a hint of mystery entwined in the words.
September 7, 2020
“ Author B. B. Swann has crafted a truly delightful magical fantasy drama that mixes contemporary themes and urban realities with the natural, magical world”
I have to say I totally agree with the above statement. Once I started this I found myself drawn into the magical world created by this author and I did not want to leave! It’s fast paced and highly entertaining and filled with twists and turns to keep you on your toes. There’s hidden secrets, wizards, demons, and dryads and is a delightful mixture of mystery, urban fantasy, teen romance and drama. I cannot wait to read more!
I have to say I totally agree with the above statement. Once I started this I found myself drawn into the magical world created by this author and I did not want to leave! It’s fast paced and highly entertaining and filled with twists and turns to keep you on your toes. There’s hidden secrets, wizards, demons, and dryads and is a delightful mixture of mystery, urban fantasy, teen romance and drama. I cannot wait to read more!
September 5, 2020
No spoilers here. This book is at once a coming of age story, a romance and a modern fantasy. It is full twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. For those who enjoy the idea of a magical world secreted within our own, and a little romance, I recommend.
September 7, 2020
I loved this book! Four stars instead of five because there is a "triggered" joke in it that is completely unnecessary and the tense changes in odd places several times, but overall this is a really good book.
When I started reading it, I wasn't too sure what I was going to think of it, but the characters are all thought out very well and there are twists and turns I didn't see coming. The magic is explained well, there's enough action and cheesy romance to hook you in. The plot is unique and I found myself not wanting to put it down until I finished it.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I started reading it, I wasn't too sure what I was going to think of it, but the characters are all thought out very well and there are twists and turns I didn't see coming. The magic is explained well, there's enough action and cheesy romance to hook you in. The plot is unique and I found myself not wanting to put it down until I finished it.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2020
What would you do if you went to bed one night perfectly normal, apart from being labelled as a book nerd, and woke up on the ceiling? That's what happens to Zaidyn Mitchell at the start of B. B. Swann's excellent magical fantasy, Out of the Woods. Poor Zaidyn not only has to cope with finding that he's a wizard and learning to deal with his new reality, but also trying desperately not to alienate Piper Duke, the girl of his dreams.
I loved this book from the start (and even more so by the end) so I'm delighted that it is the first in a series. I haven't read any of B. B. Swann's books before but I have to say that I am impressed by her writing. Her characters are three dimensional and very well drawn, her plot is sound and well thought out, important for me especially in fantasy novels where it's easier to use magic to cope with problems. Ms Swann definitely doesn't cheat, she produces first class, thoroughly enjoyable fiction and I can't recommend Out of the Woods highly enough.
I loved this book from the start (and even more so by the end) so I'm delighted that it is the first in a series. I haven't read any of B. B. Swann's books before but I have to say that I am impressed by her writing. Her characters are three dimensional and very well drawn, her plot is sound and well thought out, important for me especially in fantasy novels where it's easier to use magic to cope with problems. Ms Swann definitely doesn't cheat, she produces first class, thoroughly enjoyable fiction and I can't recommend Out of the Woods highly enough.
October 12, 2020
Out of the Woods
by B.B. Swann
What a great young adult book, would love to share it with my students in late elementary and middle school. The idea that limiting people by oppressively structured society is more universal now in the crisis we have lived in the last year. The magical society is restricted, which left many questioning if the ideas are right. The children affected most are the ones to stand up for their families, and their own choices. This book shows how the truth will free you. Great inspiration to young students.
by B.B. Swann
What a great young adult book, would love to share it with my students in late elementary and middle school. The idea that limiting people by oppressively structured society is more universal now in the crisis we have lived in the last year. The magical society is restricted, which left many questioning if the ideas are right. The children affected most are the ones to stand up for their families, and their own choices. This book shows how the truth will free you. Great inspiration to young students.
July 4, 2021
Fun new spin on wizards, unicorns, and demons.
February 26, 2022
Hey everyone! Thanks for checking out my new book, the first in my Spellbound Mysteries series.
For those of you who entered the giveaway for one of 10 free ecopies, click the link below to see the winners! If you were chosen, CONGRATS! I hope you enjoy the story! As always, an HONEST REVIEW on Amazon or here on Goodreads is greatly appreciated! Have a wonderful holiday season!
https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/dis...?
Here's a little taste of what's to come. Enjoy!
(Note to self: Not all change is good.)
I wake in the dark with the white plaster “popcorn” of my ceiling stabbing my bare back. My ceiling. I float nine feet above my bed, wearing nothing but my too-small American Eagle boxers and my messy brown hair.
Voices whisper inside my head. My parent’s voices chanting… in Latin.
Wait. Since when do they speak Latin? The words get faster, like a wind in a storm, stirring the fear in my chest until I gasp for breath.
Heart racing, I dig my fingertips into the plaster and stare into the darkness at my bed below. It’s like I entered The Matrix. My messed-up navy-blue comforter looks like a still life photo of a wave on the stormy ocean. Dust rains down, bringing it to life for a moment. My book lays open on the floor next to my bed where I must have dropped it when I floated–
No. I’m not awake. I’m still dreaming.
Closing my eyes, I try to remember my dream. That’s right, I climbed the rope in Gym class. After finally making it to the top for the first time, I had plummeted toward the floor. Only then, the gym turned into a real mountain and the rope a real cliff. The fall stretched on for hundreds of feet. In my dream I’d screamed, terrified, arms flailing like I was flying. That’s when I woke up.
On my fucking ceiling.
No, I’m not awake. I’m NOT awake. Sucking a breath in through my clenched teeth, I nod once.
“Okay. When I open my eyes, I’ll be in bed. One, two….”
The chanting returns to my head, louder than before, followed by a surge of white-hot energy that vibrates through my bones. I picture myself like those old-time cartoons where the cat shakes hands with the mouse and gets electrocuted and you can see his skeleton through his skin. The power surges through me and at its peak, my teeth crash against each other and I drop. Hard.
The support boards of my full-sized bed crack with a loud snap from the force of my body slamming into it. Bouncing off my mattress and onto the floor, my loud yelp is muffled by the thick gray carpet. I lay there for a minute trying to catch my breath, heart pumping fast.
The sound of feet pounding in the hall grows closer, and my bedroom door flies open. My parents run in, wide-eyed. I flip over onto my back, like lying on the floor in the middle of the night is normal.
Invisible ropes pull against me, urging me toward them. I dig my fingers into the carpet.
“Everything okay, Zaidyn?” Mom brushes her wild black hair off her face. Dad stands right behind her in his red plaid pajama pants and white sleep shirt. Light from the hall spills into the room and I squint against the brightness.
Pushing myself up, I stand next to my bed, locking my knees to keep them from shaking. Or from taking me closer.
“Uh, yeah. Bad dream I… uh… fell.”
Not a complete lie.
Crossing his arms, Dad leans against the doorframe, grinning at Mom like they won the lottery. “It worked this time.”
She claps her hands together and holds them over her mouth.
“What worked?” I ask. “What are you talking about?” My breath speeds and the Latin words come back to me. My cheeks tingle as the blood drains from my heated face.
“Want to talk about your dream?” Mom walks toward me.
(Note to self: I want to spaz out alone. I just fell off my freaking ceiling!)
For those of you who entered the giveaway for one of 10 free ecopies, click the link below to see the winners! If you were chosen, CONGRATS! I hope you enjoy the story! As always, an HONEST REVIEW on Amazon or here on Goodreads is greatly appreciated! Have a wonderful holiday season!
https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/dis...?
Here's a little taste of what's to come. Enjoy!
(Note to self: Not all change is good.)
I wake in the dark with the white plaster “popcorn” of my ceiling stabbing my bare back. My ceiling. I float nine feet above my bed, wearing nothing but my too-small American Eagle boxers and my messy brown hair.
Voices whisper inside my head. My parent’s voices chanting… in Latin.
Wait. Since when do they speak Latin? The words get faster, like a wind in a storm, stirring the fear in my chest until I gasp for breath.
Heart racing, I dig my fingertips into the plaster and stare into the darkness at my bed below. It’s like I entered The Matrix. My messed-up navy-blue comforter looks like a still life photo of a wave on the stormy ocean. Dust rains down, bringing it to life for a moment. My book lays open on the floor next to my bed where I must have dropped it when I floated–
No. I’m not awake. I’m still dreaming.
Closing my eyes, I try to remember my dream. That’s right, I climbed the rope in Gym class. After finally making it to the top for the first time, I had plummeted toward the floor. Only then, the gym turned into a real mountain and the rope a real cliff. The fall stretched on for hundreds of feet. In my dream I’d screamed, terrified, arms flailing like I was flying. That’s when I woke up.
On my fucking ceiling.
No, I’m not awake. I’m NOT awake. Sucking a breath in through my clenched teeth, I nod once.
“Okay. When I open my eyes, I’ll be in bed. One, two….”
The chanting returns to my head, louder than before, followed by a surge of white-hot energy that vibrates through my bones. I picture myself like those old-time cartoons where the cat shakes hands with the mouse and gets electrocuted and you can see his skeleton through his skin. The power surges through me and at its peak, my teeth crash against each other and I drop. Hard.
The support boards of my full-sized bed crack with a loud snap from the force of my body slamming into it. Bouncing off my mattress and onto the floor, my loud yelp is muffled by the thick gray carpet. I lay there for a minute trying to catch my breath, heart pumping fast.
The sound of feet pounding in the hall grows closer, and my bedroom door flies open. My parents run in, wide-eyed. I flip over onto my back, like lying on the floor in the middle of the night is normal.
Invisible ropes pull against me, urging me toward them. I dig my fingers into the carpet.
“Everything okay, Zaidyn?” Mom brushes her wild black hair off her face. Dad stands right behind her in his red plaid pajama pants and white sleep shirt. Light from the hall spills into the room and I squint against the brightness.
Pushing myself up, I stand next to my bed, locking my knees to keep them from shaking. Or from taking me closer.
“Uh, yeah. Bad dream I… uh… fell.”
Not a complete lie.
Crossing his arms, Dad leans against the doorframe, grinning at Mom like they won the lottery. “It worked this time.”
She claps her hands together and holds them over her mouth.
“What worked?” I ask. “What are you talking about?” My breath speeds and the Latin words come back to me. My cheeks tingle as the blood drains from my heated face.
“Want to talk about your dream?” Mom walks toward me.
(Note to self: I want to spaz out alone. I just fell off my freaking ceiling!)
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews