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Ghost of the White Wood
The Ghost of the White Wood has been a thorn in the Kalesh Empire’s side for years.
Until Captain Bastian captures her—and she becomes so much more than a thorn.
***
This short story is mentioned in Raven's Ruin (Keeper Origins Book 2)
and free for download by signing up for my email list on
jaandrews.com/ghost
thanks!
JA Andrews
Until Captain Bastian captures her—and she becomes so much more than a thorn.
***
This short story is mentioned in Raven's Ruin (Keeper Origins Book 2)
and free for download by signing up for my email list on
jaandrews.com/ghost
thanks!
JA Andrews
50 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2021
14 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
August 30, 2021
Fast paced short story, which can be read completely on it's own.
I liked the main characters, and was quickly hooked by the mystery surrounding them.
If you want a quick bite to see if the main series might be for you, this a great sample of JA Andrews writing. Though the novels of course have much more depth to them, than a short story ever could.
I liked the main characters, and was quickly hooked by the mystery surrounding them.
If you want a quick bite to see if the main series might be for you, this a great sample of JA Andrews writing. Though the novels of course have much more depth to them, than a short story ever could.
August 20, 2023
This book is a fun and informative addition to The Keeper Origins trilogy. I loved learning more about Melia and her adventures as the Ghost of the White Wood. I highly recommend it, especially for those who have read the other books in the series.
June 7, 2021
First off, can I just say that I LOVE reading the stories mentioned in other stories. It's really really fun. JA Andrews does this all the time, and it's so great.
This story, specifically, is awesome. Despite only being a novella, we get to learn more about the world, the magic... and it all feels very integral to the story in the Keeper Origins series. It's part of a larger picture, and it weaves in with the rest well.
Melia is great, as are the rest of the characters. I'm hopeful about meeting the elf again, because she was just delightful. The ability she taught Melia was very cool, reminding me of the kobold ability--though I don't know if it's actually the same. Either way, I love all the creative expansions on the magic Andrews incorporates in every new story.
A quick read, and delightful. Definitely a lovely addition to the JA Andrews shelf.
This story, specifically, is awesome. Despite only being a novella, we get to learn more about the world, the magic... and it all feels very integral to the story in the Keeper Origins series. It's part of a larger picture, and it weaves in with the rest well.
Melia is great, as are the rest of the characters. I'm hopeful about meeting the elf again, because she was just delightful. The ability she taught Melia was very cool, reminding me of the kobold ability--though I don't know if it's actually the same. Either way, I love all the creative expansions on the magic Andrews incorporates in every new story.
A quick read, and delightful. Definitely a lovely addition to the JA Andrews shelf.
December 7, 2023
For some reason, I am always amazed when authors pull off a great short story, because for me this is the most difficult discipline: Writing an interesting story and interesting characters in a very limited amount of space, without either of them feeling flat and forced. J.A. Andrews’ Ghost of the White Wood does that wonderfully. I am currently reading the Keeper Origins and this story is mentioned in the main story, so I just had to take this quick detour. And it is J.A. Andrews’ writing in a nutshell: First and foremost, does she write great characters taking part in a wonderful story. On top of that are her impeccable writing skills and an amazing worldbuilding.
If you’ve read the Keeper Origins, you are already more or less familiar with two important characters of this story: Melia and Bastian. Evay, an elf, is the third main character of this story. All three are very well portrayed considering the length of the story. We have a magical ability here that I haven’t seen mentioned in any of the other books, but that is a perfect fit for the elves’ ability to seemingly vanish into thin air. It’s like a favorite easter egg for me. There is enough action packed into this story to fill a whole novel, there is banter, humour, mystery and suspense.
Oh, and you don’t need to know the main story to enjoy the Ghost of the White Wood, you can read it on its own and get a taste of J.A. Andrews’ writing.
If you’ve read the Keeper Origins, you are already more or less familiar with two important characters of this story: Melia and Bastian. Evay, an elf, is the third main character of this story. All three are very well portrayed considering the length of the story. We have a magical ability here that I haven’t seen mentioned in any of the other books, but that is a perfect fit for the elves’ ability to seemingly vanish into thin air. It’s like a favorite easter egg for me. There is enough action packed into this story to fill a whole novel, there is banter, humour, mystery and suspense.
Oh, and you don’t need to know the main story to enjoy the Ghost of the White Wood, you can read it on its own and get a taste of J.A. Andrews’ writing.
June 25, 2021
A human and an exiled elf are all that stand between the people and a tyrant emperor conquering the realm.
This story blew me away.
Right from the outset, the characters drew me in. They are perfectly written. The characterisation and dialogue are spot on. I loved Melia and Evay and how a human and an elf, bonded by a blood debt, are so united and trusting of each other. Bastian! Is he a potential for romance? It’s been a long time since I’ve been so moved by characters.
The world is well crafted with snippets of a larger world seamlessly weaved into the current story. I have no idea how the Ghost learned the unique magic from which she is named. The story left me invested and wanting to know more.
Fans of character-driven epic fantasy will love this skilfully written short story.
This story blew me away.
Right from the outset, the characters drew me in. They are perfectly written. The characterisation and dialogue are spot on. I loved Melia and Evay and how a human and an elf, bonded by a blood debt, are so united and trusting of each other. Bastian! Is he a potential for romance? It’s been a long time since I’ve been so moved by characters.
The world is well crafted with snippets of a larger world seamlessly weaved into the current story. I have no idea how the Ghost learned the unique magic from which she is named. The story left me invested and wanting to know more.
Fans of character-driven epic fantasy will love this skilfully written short story.
Read
October 29, 2022J.A. Andrews is one of those authors that you both can’t help but devour their stories because they are amazing and you can’t wait to see what twists she’s plotted, what revolutions will be made, and how it will all evolve, but at the same time you want to savor the beauty, elegance, and beautifully written dynamics of her story because you don’t want to miss any of the subtle details hidden within the pages.
Lucky for us, Andrews is a master storyteller that often writes extra little snippets that allow us to burrow deeper into her world with the Keeper stories. Sometimes you just like to take an hour or two and visit one of your favorite worlds. And that is exactly what Andrews accomplishes with her Keeper’s Tales. A little piece of perfect escapism for those days you want to visit old friends for a few hours. Ghost of the White Wood (A Keeper Origins Short Story), although, a mere 50 pages has all the epicness, fight, flare, love, and loyalty that fills every story Andrews creates.
Melia and her elf friend, Evay, are out to continue a rebellion against the Kalesh Empire. Unfortunately for them Melia becomes ensnared by the likes of one Captain Bastian and she is brought before Prince Turrn, the Emperor’s third son, to pay for the trouble she has caused the Empire. However, with her quick wit, guile, magic, battle prowess, and her friend’s unwavering loyalty, maybe…just maybe… she will escape and go onto give birth to the girl who would one day become the 1st queen of Queensland.
Andrews writes the absolute BEST classic type fantasy! Her characters are fabulous, her stories well written and exceptionally captivating, and her world building and magic system among the very best I’ve ever read. I can honestly say that I haven’t read a single story she’s written that I haven’t absolutely adored and devoured.
So if you, like me, love a little extra story to go along with your epic classic fantasy novels I would definitely recommend you give J.A. Andrews’ Keeper Origins a read. And then follow it up with Ghost of the White Wood. You won’t be disappointed!
Lucky for us, Andrews is a master storyteller that often writes extra little snippets that allow us to burrow deeper into her world with the Keeper stories. Sometimes you just like to take an hour or two and visit one of your favorite worlds. And that is exactly what Andrews accomplishes with her Keeper’s Tales. A little piece of perfect escapism for those days you want to visit old friends for a few hours. Ghost of the White Wood (A Keeper Origins Short Story), although, a mere 50 pages has all the epicness, fight, flare, love, and loyalty that fills every story Andrews creates.
Melia and her elf friend, Evay, are out to continue a rebellion against the Kalesh Empire. Unfortunately for them Melia becomes ensnared by the likes of one Captain Bastian and she is brought before Prince Turrn, the Emperor’s third son, to pay for the trouble she has caused the Empire. However, with her quick wit, guile, magic, battle prowess, and her friend’s unwavering loyalty, maybe…just maybe… she will escape and go onto give birth to the girl who would one day become the 1st queen of Queensland.
Andrews writes the absolute BEST classic type fantasy! Her characters are fabulous, her stories well written and exceptionally captivating, and her world building and magic system among the very best I’ve ever read. I can honestly say that I haven’t read a single story she’s written that I haven’t absolutely adored and devoured.
So if you, like me, love a little extra story to go along with your epic classic fantasy novels I would definitely recommend you give J.A. Andrews’ Keeper Origins a read. And then follow it up with Ghost of the White Wood. You won’t be disappointed!
December 29, 2022
got this novella as a freebie for signing up to Andrews' mailing list! Would definitely recommend checking it out.
Onto my review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*No spoilers*
We're dropped straight into the action. A rebellious group hides in wait. Their leader: the mysterious Ghost of the White Wood waits with them.
From there, we're given a fast-paced and thrilling novella detailing their ambush and the events thereafter. Introducing us to not only characters to root for and against but also morally grey scenarios where there's no clear winner.
Our main character, Melia, is a great one! She's our classic badass leader who fights for what is right, even if not everything she does is. As well as her, the other side characters are equally bursting with personality and complexity.
The small magic we see has such potential. I'd love to see it utilised more as what we got already felt so unique.
The World Andrews writes in feels fully realised and bursting with potential.
The self-contained novella was a blast, and I would highly recommend it.
Onto my review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*No spoilers*
We're dropped straight into the action. A rebellious group hides in wait. Their leader: the mysterious Ghost of the White Wood waits with them.
From there, we're given a fast-paced and thrilling novella detailing their ambush and the events thereafter. Introducing us to not only characters to root for and against but also morally grey scenarios where there's no clear winner.
Our main character, Melia, is a great one! She's our classic badass leader who fights for what is right, even if not everything she does is. As well as her, the other side characters are equally bursting with personality and complexity.
The small magic we see has such potential. I'd love to see it utilised more as what we got already felt so unique.
The World Andrews writes in feels fully realised and bursting with potential.
The self-contained novella was a blast, and I would highly recommend it.
November 26, 2025
AMAZING. This is the first story I’ve read in this series and I will, without a doubt, be reading the rest as soon as possible. What else can I say? J. A. Andrews writes a magically good fantasy short story! I was pleasantly surprised, to say the least, that this one captivated my imagination, as well as my emotions, instantly and completely.
The magic system was absolutely top-tier; as good as any I’ve read. It added a level of intrigue that was so satisfying for me as a fantasy fan and it tied in so well with what this story is about. The dialogue and the way the characters were realized is something to be envied. I laughed and felt sympathy with them and was completely transported into the story because of it. This was such an incredibly short read, but so much was accomplished and I applaud the author for what she’s done here.
Quite frankly – I couldn’t get enough.
I highly recommend Ghost of the White Wood to any fan of the fantasy genre. I promise you’ll enjoy this story. The only problem: adding another series to your TBR.
The magic system was absolutely top-tier; as good as any I’ve read. It added a level of intrigue that was so satisfying for me as a fantasy fan and it tied in so well with what this story is about. The dialogue and the way the characters were realized is something to be envied. I laughed and felt sympathy with them and was completely transported into the story because of it. This was such an incredibly short read, but so much was accomplished and I applaud the author for what she’s done here.
Quite frankly – I couldn’t get enough.
I highly recommend Ghost of the White Wood to any fan of the fantasy genre. I promise you’ll enjoy this story. The only problem: adding another series to your TBR.
April 26, 2023
What more can I say about this story than it got me out of a reading funk. Every story I tried I just couldn't get into or was bored. Then I tried the Ghost as I knew it was a short story so less commitment and man did it instantly grip me and did not let go until the end. I wanted more! And then a realization hit me...and I decided to ignore the puzzle I was putting together.
Melia, she is my kind of MC. I loved her from page one. There was a fire within her along with determination and fighting for the greater good. Evay, an elf with a sense of humor and not enough tree loving jokes. Then along comes the enemy, Captain Bastian, who we should all hate and of course I ended up shipping. (I'm an enemies to lovers sucker if you couldn't guess.)
It ended all too quickly. Such a fantastic read. The only thing missing was the totally true fact that they spend the rest of their lives chasing each other and nothing bad ever happens...right. RIGHT!!!
Melia, she is my kind of MC. I loved her from page one. There was a fire within her along with determination and fighting for the greater good. Evay, an elf with a sense of humor and not enough tree loving jokes. Then along comes the enemy, Captain Bastian, who we should all hate and of course I ended up shipping. (I'm an enemies to lovers sucker if you couldn't guess.)
It ended all too quickly. Such a fantastic read. The only thing missing was the totally true fact that they spend the rest of their lives chasing each other and nothing bad ever happens...right. RIGHT!!!
August 4, 2022
Ghost of the White Wood was a nice read but not one of my faves.
This story has that Robin Hood vibe down to a t and I liked that. It follows Melia, the infamous Ghost, and elf Evay as they navigate from a close brush with Kalesh soldiers.
The story takes place in the the vicinity of White Wood, a small town that becomes a buffer between the forces of Kalesh and the Ghost with it's little band of misfits. The action was well written and the fight scenes at the end were so vivid in my opinion.
The partnership between Melia and Evay was goals, but I did fell like Melia wasn't prepared to do all the things she ended up doing and most of the time Evay was forced to intervene.
The ending was ok and I have to idea why I think it's missing something, but the novel did what it had to do and that is present a story set in a larger universe that probably has some important consequences later.
This story has that Robin Hood vibe down to a t and I liked that. It follows Melia, the infamous Ghost, and elf Evay as they navigate from a close brush with Kalesh soldiers.
The story takes place in the the vicinity of White Wood, a small town that becomes a buffer between the forces of Kalesh and the Ghost with it's little band of misfits. The action was well written and the fight scenes at the end were so vivid in my opinion.
The partnership between Melia and Evay was goals, but I did fell like Melia wasn't prepared to do all the things she ended up doing and most of the time Evay was forced to intervene.
The ending was ok and I have to idea why I think it's missing something, but the novel did what it had to do and that is present a story set in a larger universe that probably has some important consequences later.
June 23, 2021
What an AMAZING action-packed ride! I am a HUGE fan of JA Andrews!! I needed this!! Oh you don't know how much I needed such a gripping, action-packed tale to get me out of my slump! I blazed through this in a night and feel so rejuvenated! The incredible, undeniable skill that she has--her magnificent worldbuilding and characterization...it's so well written, it just sweeps you off your feet, takes you away to wonderous new places and, at the very end, drops you off feeling breathless and excited for another ride!
I loved Melia and the rumors around the Ghost, the ability to "step" and her heroic actions. Such a crazy amazing read!
Thank you JA for creating this escape! You have no idea how much it helped, how your stories in general have impacted my life.
I loved Melia and the rumors around the Ghost, the ability to "step" and her heroic actions. Such a crazy amazing read!
Thank you JA for creating this escape! You have no idea how much it helped, how your stories in general have impacted my life.
June 12, 2021
Way too short...BUT it was awesome (which is why it was too short!). I loved Melia and how JA fleshed her out and made her real in such a short space. She needs to make another appearance (please?). This story made me look at Ambassador Bastian differently, too. He actually became a semi-sympathetic character...and now I'm waiting for HIS other shoe to drop. So far, in Raven's Ruin, Sable hasn't read the book yet (I'm at 64%), but I'm waiting. Something to look forward to. This is a great little side trip on a wonderful journey.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2023
I really enjoyed this short story by J.A. Andrews. It's such a nice bonus to readers and fans of the Keepers Origins Trilogy. If you have read that series, make sure to read this one somewhere along the way. I read Ghost of the White Wood after reading the trilogy and I was able to pick up on so much more because of it.
Melia and Evay are an amazing pair of ladies who come to action when they hear the call. It was amazing to get this little glimpse into the past.
Onto Flibbet the Peddler!
Melia and Evay are an amazing pair of ladies who come to action when they hear the call. It was amazing to get this little glimpse into the past.
Onto Flibbet the Peddler!
February 4, 2023
Wow, what an awesome short story! I started this series last year, but I couldn't get into it because I just didn't feel a connection with any of the characters. Now I am going to have to revisit it because the writing is just amazing! I know this is just a story told within the series, but I love it just the same 🥰
February 6, 2023
The Keepers Origins was one of my favorite series last year (it’s awesome, read it!), but I had missed reading this short story. As usual, I loved the writing, the banter, and the characters. It was great to have a new story in this world that I didn’t want to leave. Melina and Evray are terrific characters and this is a fun, quick story.
June 29, 2024
This is the story of Melia, the Ghost of the white-wood and how she gets caught by and escapes from the clutches of the evil prince. Her friend Evay the elf and even some unlooked for help in Captain Bastian, both enable Melia to escape to continue her journey to help the Kalish people against the awful rule of the Empire.
June 29, 2025
What an engaging short story! I was immersed from the get go, and absolutely loved the Robin Hood vibes of this wonderful, action-packed tale about a rebellious young woman and her elf friend/body guard and how they outwit the emperor’s army. It also comes with a lovely exploration of the fine line between excusable and condemnable violence.
I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
July 22, 2021
Any little additional information on this series is great. Getting Melia's story after reading Raven's Ruin? Fantastic. I do hope there's mentions of Evay in book 3; I do quite like her and you can never have enough elves.
August 5, 2022
A short story but overall a good story. So far I am loving J.A. Andrews' books. The Keepers series was the best series I have read in a while so if you like this short story, read The Keeper Chronicles trilogy next!
December 8, 2023
This may be a short story, but it is fantastic. It’s good solo, but it also made me eager to read the series it accompanies.
No romance so clean that way.
There is violence, but this is a time of war. There wasn’t extra and I love the factual way the main character presented things.
No romance so clean that way.
There is violence, but this is a time of war. There wasn’t extra and I love the factual way the main character presented things.
December 28, 2024
I'm never disappointed whenever I read a story by this author. This short story in the keeper origins series is action-packed and character-driven. I loved the insight into Bastian and Melia as enemies who respect one another. It was the palate cleanser I needed!
February 10, 2025
More, I want more of these two fascinating characters. J.A. Andrews makes every character come to life through her amazing story telling skills. Want to read a book in color? Read any of her books. The stories light up in the same manner as if they were on a "big screen".
June 29, 2021
I actually read this as I was reading the full length novel that refers to this as a legend. Fantastic on its own but greatly enhanced the novel as well.
November 14, 2021
*****Well done
Melia and her elf friend, Evay are determined to upset the rule of the Emperor of Kalesh. Their start at this task is quite interesting. I enjoyed this story.
December 26, 2021
A fantastic story of loyalty and betrayal and land-pirates. Would love to read more in this world.
March 6, 2022
A great novella to give background on important events that have personal significance to Sable and the future Queensland. Bows, elves and magic..oh my!
April 2, 2022
Highly recommended!! Raises so many unanswered questions that I hope to get answers about in future books. I hope the author will finally explain certain characters origins!!
July 4, 2022
Hooked
I liked the characters, enjoyed the story,you hooked me. I'll leave this site and pickup the Keeper Origins series next. Thanks for a fun short story. Mary
I liked the characters, enjoyed the story,you hooked me. I'll leave this site and pickup the Keeper Origins series next. Thanks for a fun short story. Mary
September 21, 2022
This was my first JA Andrews read. I really enjoyed this short story. It contains elves, humans, low magic. I enjoyed the strong characters and detailed world building.
January 6, 2023
3.5 stars
Action packed little story. Can be read as a standalone, but if you're reading the "The Keeper Origins" series then it does also offer an answer to one of the mysteries.
Action packed little story. Can be read as a standalone, but if you're reading the "The Keeper Origins" series then it does also offer an answer to one of the mysteries.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews