The Goblins of Bellwater
The Goblins of Bellwater is a delightfully creepy paranormal romance set in the rich landscape of the Pacific Northwest.
The forest that surrounds Bellwater, Washington, is dreamy, dark, and deep. It’s a place where anything could happen—especially when the magical creatures that live in the trees meddle with human behavior.
A modern fairy tale based on Christina Rossetti’s poem “Goblin Market,” The Goblins of Bellwater is packed with gorgeous details:
White shelf-shaped mushrooms stuck out of the fallen logs, but they grew in no particular pattern and Skye doubted they would glow if she cupped her hands around them to shut out the light.
Paths appear and vanish, leading people astray. Once they’re alone in the woods, the goblins prey on them, locking them into a strange enchantment. Skye and her friend Grady are drawn into the goblin’s magic. They’re unable to speak of what’s happened; only Skye’s sister Livy and her boyfriend Kit can help set them free. The four neighbors fight back against the sinister forces that have ensnared Bellwater for generations.
Of course, the hard part is getting people to actually believe. The Goblins of Bellwater has a wonderfully sassy, modern sensibility. Moving to town, Grady is surprised at the high cost of housing, especially when such a big price tag is attached to such a small space.
Characters have cell phones, casual sex, and a scientific attitude. Magic and goblins aren’t exactly on the menu. The tension between the magical world and the real one is excellent, and keeps suspense high throughout the novel.
The Goblins of Bellwater is a journey to a world that feels both familiar and freaky—a wonderful place to get lost.
Reviewed by
Claire Foster
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
