 | Heartwood is reminiscent of Stone-Age Britain with a yearly Midwinter “battle” between the Oak King and the Holly King, but Barbara Campbell transforms the ancient myths into something entirely her own. This is a quest story with elements of a portal fantasy, and intriguing characters who are both tested and transformed by story events. There are shamans, gods, and a strange Otherworld ruled by chaos. The cosmology of Heartwood gives the illusion of an existing belief system that has evolved over time. I don’t generally find the Stone Age compelling, but the writing was so good, it was hard to stop turning pages. Every time our heroes concocted a plan, something went awry. |
The main character is Darak, a stoic hunter who begins the story hardened and bitter, trying to force everyone around him to his will. His story transformation is earned a thousandfold.
Authors often speak about struggling to challenge or harm their characters. Ms Campbell doesn’t appear to suffer from that malady. Darak endures heart-wrenching trials that would kill a lesser man. His ordeals leave him shattered and vulnerable, yet deepened and more human.
Griane is a young healer and herbalist who acts impulsively but always with the best intentions. When she isn’t acting rashly, she is smart about making preparations and applying her skills to help others. She stands up to Darak and calls him on his machismo.
Authors often speak about struggling to challenge or harm their characters. Ms Campbell doesn’t appear to suffer from that malady. Darak endures heart-wrenching trials that would kill a lesser man. His ordeals leave him shattered and vulnerable, yet deepened and more human.
Griane is a young healer and herbalist who acts impulsively but always with the best intentions. When she isn’t acting rashly, she is smart about making preparations and applying her skills to help others. She stands up to Darak and calls him on his machismo.
 | The Holly Lord was another fascinating character: a seasonal god trapped in a mortal body for most of the tale. His point of view was my favorite. He is both innocent and wise, compassionate yet compelled to follow his destiny. His social skills were terrible, but he tried hard to understand his human companions, which made him endearing. The story also stars a Trickster god who often appears as part fox. His motivations are never entirely clear. He was is sometimes exasperating or frighening, and at other times sympathetic. |
The climax was not entirely unexpected—one of those inevitable endings that make the novel’s journey feel complete. The clear indication of a potential sequel in no way detracted from the bittersweet end or the lovely romantic denouement between two of the main characters. It’s a sign of a great story when the conclusion resonates so strongly.
Heartwood is a well-written fantasy novel with complex, heroic characters overcoming impossible odds.
Heartwood is a well-written fantasy novel with complex, heroic characters overcoming impossible odds.
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