Beyond Mulberry Glen

This book was a joy to read- I couldn't put it down! Millie uses beautiful language and vivid scenes and characters. I was really able to enter Lydia's world! I love the latin that is sprinkled throughout. I also love how the story parallels the gospel through the description of the darkness and the light. Thank you Millie for creating a delightful and lovely story. I'm excited for my children to read this as well! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Beyond Mulberry Glen is a delightful fantasy adventure for the whole family! Lydia Green has been raised by a philosopher and fairy in Mulberry Glen her whole life. She is on the cusp of being sent out to apprentice, but change is never easy, and she is very reluctant to leave the only home and family she has ever known. One day, The Darkness, and invisible enemy, begins to cause havoc in the nearby lands. When two of her friends make a foolish attempt to stop the Darkness themselves, Lydia feels compelled to go after them to save them. In the course of her adventure, she meets new friends and has many new experiences that help her to realize that change can be good, even if it is hard! Delightful and whimsical language. Rich with themes of loyalty and redemption. Many Latin vocabulary words sprinkled throughout which will be a treat for those readers who are studying Latin. Lydia is studying to be an herbalist, so there are lots of fun plant and natural remedies mentioned throughout. Definitely feel the parallel of the Darkness with depression, which is a timely topic for today's culture. Felt like there was some parallels with Jesus and light/darkness, but nothing materialized along this path in that end. This would make for an excellent family read-aloud novel... The fantasy adventure will entertain your younger kiddos, your middle grade and high school readers will resonate with Lydia's "coming of age" storyline, and the adults will find plenty of complex themes to ponder over for themselves. Enjoy! I received a complimentary advance reader copy of this book, however, opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Light and Darkness. The struggle to find truth and hope and light, when darkness is looming. This book addresses a big snd relevant topic, while remaining safe for children and not too heavy. This book was a delight to read aloud. We value a strong story, interesting characters, and adventure! Beyond Mulberry Glen has it all. You know you've found a gem when you, as the parent, don't want to put the book down!! The only thing that could push Lydia enough to leave her cozy home, is saving her friends. She embarks on an adventure to bring back her friends, but she will face more danger than she mightve realized. The Darkness is overtaking the forest, a town, and its still growing! What will happen when Lydia faces the Darkness? Will she be encompassed? Or will she defeat Darkness and save her friends? A great middle grade novel that teaches friendship, finding your way, bravery, and hope. I highly recommend!