The Luminaries (The Luminaries, #1)

by Susan Dennard

Changelings: These daywalkers can perfectly mimic any human they see. Long claws give them away, and they cannot speak. Werewolves, were-cats, were-stags: Human by day and monster by night, these rare daywalkers blend in easily and are unrecognizable from other humans in their daytime form. Melusine: These beautiful, mermaid-like creatures inhabit the rivers and lakes of the forest. They are not aggressive but will attack if humans get near.

Someone needs to know about a nightmare that distorts the forest, can walk outside it, and frightens even a werewolf.

First is a white swan for the Sundays. Their motto is Patience inside. Calm under pressure. Next, a white scroll with a black ribbon for the Mondays. Intellect at the fore. Knowledge is the path. A red scorpion for the Tuesdays. Strength of body and heart. We hold the line. Then comes the Wednesday black bear. The cause above all else. Loyalty through and through. A silver bell for the Thursdays. Always prepared. Never without a plan. A gray sparrow for the Fridays. Integrity in all. Honesty to the end. And lastly, a golden key for the Saturdays. Leadership in deed and word. Persuasion is power.

That’s why we’re called the Luminaries, Winnie: we are lanterns the forest can never snuff out.