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A Girl Walks Into the Forest
Midsommar meets The Shadows Between Us in this alluring mash-up of horror and fairy tale from New York Times bestselling author Madeleine Roux, where a girl must embark on a harrowing journey through a deadly forest filled with otherworldly creatures, supernatural forces, and one maniacal villain who will stop at nothing to bring her down.
For as long as she can remember, Valla’s been told her beauty would give her a life most people only dreamed of. So when the mysterious Count Leonid calls on her to be his betrothed, Valla jumps at the chance to leave her small, bleak village. The only thing standing in her way? The journey through the dangerous Gottyar Wood that many don’t survive.
Filled with deadly and cunning creatures, the Gottyar immediately delivers on its reputation with an attack that leaves Valla injured; her face torn to shreds. Barely making it to the castle in one piece, Valla is relieved to finally be safe. But things have changed. Valla’s face is no longer beautiful. And the Count is not happy…Valla thought making it through the Gottyar was a victory, but when she sees what awaits beyond the palace walls, the true battle begins.
In this ruthlessly female-forward narrative that borrows from the best of horror, fairy tales, and folklore, a chewed-up-and-spit-out heroine must lean on the brutality of nature and her biggest fears in order to win back what’s she's been robbed her life.
For as long as she can remember, Valla’s been told her beauty would give her a life most people only dreamed of. So when the mysterious Count Leonid calls on her to be his betrothed, Valla jumps at the chance to leave her small, bleak village. The only thing standing in her way? The journey through the dangerous Gottyar Wood that many don’t survive.
Filled with deadly and cunning creatures, the Gottyar immediately delivers on its reputation with an attack that leaves Valla injured; her face torn to shreds. Barely making it to the castle in one piece, Valla is relieved to finally be safe. But things have changed. Valla’s face is no longer beautiful. And the Count is not happy…Valla thought making it through the Gottyar was a victory, but when she sees what awaits beyond the palace walls, the true battle begins.
In this ruthlessly female-forward narrative that borrows from the best of horror, fairy tales, and folklore, a chewed-up-and-spit-out heroine must lean on the brutality of nature and her biggest fears in order to win back what’s she's been robbed her life.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published June 10, 2025
52 people are currently reading
13179 people want to read
About the author
Madeleine Roux
49 books4,766 followersNew York Times Bestselling Author of the ASYLUM series, Allison Hewitt Is Trapped, Sadie Walker Is Stranded and the upcoming House of Furies series.
MADELEINE ROUX received her BA in Creative Writing and Acting from Beloit College in 2008. In the spring of 2009, Madeleine completed an Honors Term at Beloit College, proposing, writing and presenting a full-length historical fiction novel. Shortly after, she began the experimental fiction blog Allison Hewitt Is Trapped. Allison Hewitt Is Trapped quickly spread throughout the blogosphere, bringing a unique serial fiction experience to readers.
Born in Minnesota, she now lives and works in Seattle, Washington.
MADELEINE ROUX received her BA in Creative Writing and Acting from Beloit College in 2008. In the spring of 2009, Madeleine completed an Honors Term at Beloit College, proposing, writing and presenting a full-length historical fiction novel. Shortly after, she began the experimental fiction blog Allison Hewitt Is Trapped. Allison Hewitt Is Trapped quickly spread throughout the blogosphere, bringing a unique serial fiction experience to readers.
Born in Minnesota, she now lives and works in Seattle, Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
January 14, 2025
I just devoured "A Girl Walks into the Forest" and wow, Madeleine Roux has created something really special here! This dark fantasy-horror mashup feels like discovering an ancient fairy tale that's been given a deliciously modern, twisted makeover.
Let me start with the absolute star of the show - the Gottyar Wood. Holy crow, this forest! Roux's writing makes it feel so alive and menacing that I actually caught myself holding my breath during certain scenes. Every creaking branch, every shifting shadow is written with such atmospheric precision that the forest becomes its own character. I'm not usually someone who gets spooked by books, but there were moments when I had to remind myself I was reading safely in my well-lit living room!
Valla's journey from sheltered dreamer to hardened survivor really worked for me. Sure, there are moments when her transformation feels a bit quick, but Roux does such a good job with her emotional core that I was completely invested in her story. There's something really compelling about watching her navigate this nightmare while holding onto pieces of who she is.
Count Leonid makes for an effectively creepy antagonist. While he might not be the most original villain I've encountered, Roux writes him with enough menace and presence that he serves the story perfectly. His scenes definitely gave me the shivers I was hoping for.
The way Roux blends fairy tale elements with horror is really clever. You can feel the echoes of classic folklore, but she puts her own dark spin on everything. Yes, the pacing dips a bit in the middle, but honestly? I was so wrapped up in the atmosphere that I didn't mind the slower moments - they felt like catching my breath before the next intense scene.
Some real standout elements here: the gorgeous, haunting descriptions; several genuinely surprising plot turns; and some beautifully crafted scenes that will stick with me for a while. Roux has a real talent for creating moments that feel both dreamlike and nightmarish.
Is it perfect? No, but what book is? What matters is that "A Girl Walks into the Forest" delivers exactly what it promises - a dark, enchanting story that keeps you turning pages well past your bedtime. It's the kind of book that makes you want to check if your houseplants have moved while you were reading.
Four solid stars from me! If you're into dark fantasy with a horror edge, or if you love fairy tales that bite back, you should definitely add this to your TBR pile. Can't wait to see what Roux writes next - she's definitely earned a spot on my auto-buy list!
(Also, can we talk about that ending? No spoilers, but... WHEW! Did not see that coming!)
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | Quill Tree Books for sharing this gripping fantasy reading with me in exchange for my honest reviews that I fully appreciated it.
Let me start with the absolute star of the show - the Gottyar Wood. Holy crow, this forest! Roux's writing makes it feel so alive and menacing that I actually caught myself holding my breath during certain scenes. Every creaking branch, every shifting shadow is written with such atmospheric precision that the forest becomes its own character. I'm not usually someone who gets spooked by books, but there were moments when I had to remind myself I was reading safely in my well-lit living room!
Valla's journey from sheltered dreamer to hardened survivor really worked for me. Sure, there are moments when her transformation feels a bit quick, but Roux does such a good job with her emotional core that I was completely invested in her story. There's something really compelling about watching her navigate this nightmare while holding onto pieces of who she is.
Count Leonid makes for an effectively creepy antagonist. While he might not be the most original villain I've encountered, Roux writes him with enough menace and presence that he serves the story perfectly. His scenes definitely gave me the shivers I was hoping for.
The way Roux blends fairy tale elements with horror is really clever. You can feel the echoes of classic folklore, but she puts her own dark spin on everything. Yes, the pacing dips a bit in the middle, but honestly? I was so wrapped up in the atmosphere that I didn't mind the slower moments - they felt like catching my breath before the next intense scene.
Some real standout elements here: the gorgeous, haunting descriptions; several genuinely surprising plot turns; and some beautifully crafted scenes that will stick with me for a while. Roux has a real talent for creating moments that feel both dreamlike and nightmarish.
Is it perfect? No, but what book is? What matters is that "A Girl Walks into the Forest" delivers exactly what it promises - a dark, enchanting story that keeps you turning pages well past your bedtime. It's the kind of book that makes you want to check if your houseplants have moved while you were reading.
Four solid stars from me! If you're into dark fantasy with a horror edge, or if you love fairy tales that bite back, you should definitely add this to your TBR pile. Can't wait to see what Roux writes next - she's definitely earned a spot on my auto-buy list!
(Also, can we talk about that ending? No spoilers, but... WHEW! Did not see that coming!)
Many thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books | Quill Tree Books for sharing this gripping fantasy reading with me in exchange for my honest reviews that I fully appreciated it.
April 9, 2025
This felt like a dreamy mix of horror and folktale. I've read a handful of books by this author now and I think so far this is my favorite one. I've noticed that I can always be sure to enjoy the writing from Madeleine Roux. And the cover is absolutely stunning. I feel like readers have been blessed with so many beautiful book covers recently!
I deeply appreciated the feminine struggles within this book and the battle of beauty. Towards the very beginning of the book, Valla survives a brutal attack, but at a cost. She survives a wound to her face that leaves her scarred. I appreciated seeing her come to terms with what this means for her appearance and how she is perceived by others.
The folklore within this book was gripping and so were the visuals. I loved hearing about the forest and what dangers lurked within. I also thought the twists towards the end were well executed. While this was a retelling, I still found myself entertained. The personal touches to this book made it unique in its own way while not straying too far.
If you're looking for a bleak, dark, mysterious fantasy novel with horror elements then this will be for you.
This is a book that I'll be purchasing once published!
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are always my own.
TW: Body horror, Body shaming, Bullying, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Torture, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Grief, Medical trauma, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail
I deeply appreciated the feminine struggles within this book and the battle of beauty. Towards the very beginning of the book, Valla survives a brutal attack, but at a cost. She survives a wound to her face that leaves her scarred. I appreciated seeing her come to terms with what this means for her appearance and how she is perceived by others.
The folklore within this book was gripping and so were the visuals. I loved hearing about the forest and what dangers lurked within. I also thought the twists towards the end were well executed. While this was a retelling, I still found myself entertained. The personal touches to this book made it unique in its own way while not straying too far.
If you're looking for a bleak, dark, mysterious fantasy novel with horror elements then this will be for you.
This is a book that I'll be purchasing once published!
Thank you to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are always my own.
TW: Body horror, Body shaming, Bullying, Death, Emotional abuse, Gore, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Torture, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Grief, Medical trauma, Murder, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail
June 30, 2025
This was a really solid YA Dark Fantasy. I loved the incorporation of the Baba Yaga lore, and the atmosphere was very well done.
I was also impressed by the level of body horror included, and how far Roux took some of the darker elements. I will say the 1st-half was a bit stronger for me than the later half, but overall, I was happy with the conclusion, and the story as a whole. We like it dark!
I've never read from this author before, but I'm definitely interested in checking out more of their work. If you have a favorite, drop it below.
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
I was also impressed by the level of body horror included, and how far Roux took some of the darker elements. I will say the 1st-half was a bit stronger for me than the later half, but overall, I was happy with the conclusion, and the story as a whole. We like it dark!
I've never read from this author before, but I'm definitely interested in checking out more of their work. If you have a favorite, drop it below.
Full review to come...stay tuned!!!
Read
May 1, 2025"The forest is vicious, but the forest knows its own.”
DNF @ 36%
When I see that an author I love is releasing a new book, I dive right in without even reading the synopsis. There's no need to do that because I'm going to devour it anyway. No matter what they are writing, I’m all in.
This latest release looked promising. The author has never disappointed me before, and their stories often make me feel as though a spirit is watching me as I read. The cover is twisted and really draws you in, and the title is my favorite part. All of these elements combined should create an unforgettable horror read. Unfortunately, this is one I would prefer to forget.
It wasn't the subject matter that made me lose interest. I loved the idea of something lurking in the woods, be it man or creature. The dialogue threw me and some of the characters were god awful. There was just something about this that I couldn't get into. It just wasn't a good fit for me. I can see others really digging this tale and I'll be cheering those readers on.
DNF @ 36%
When I see that an author I love is releasing a new book, I dive right in without even reading the synopsis. There's no need to do that because I'm going to devour it anyway. No matter what they are writing, I’m all in.
This latest release looked promising. The author has never disappointed me before, and their stories often make me feel as though a spirit is watching me as I read. The cover is twisted and really draws you in, and the title is my favorite part. All of these elements combined should create an unforgettable horror read. Unfortunately, this is one I would prefer to forget.
It wasn't the subject matter that made me lose interest. I loved the idea of something lurking in the woods, be it man or creature. The dialogue threw me and some of the characters were god awful. There was just something about this that I couldn't get into. It just wasn't a good fit for me. I can see others really digging this tale and I'll be cheering those readers on.
Read
June 24, 2025I had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this book (thank you NetGalley) and mark 👏🏻my 👏🏻words 👏🏻, this WILL be a 2025 best seller.
From the moment I saw the cover of this book I was drawn in. Not only is the cover captivating, but from the first page, the author draws the reader with such vivid imagery, that they themselves feel as if they are thrust into Valla’s world and along her through her journey.
I would’ve read it in one sitting had I not realized it was somehow already 2 am after starting it at 9 pm.
It is fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat
for 3/4 of the book. I often caught myself holding my breath for what was to come. It is equal parts disturbing and suspenseful; however, it was not too much for someone who isn’t usually drawn to a thriller/horror/fairytale-esque story.
It is a must read and I will definitely be recommending this one to my friends and family.
From the moment I saw the cover of this book I was drawn in. Not only is the cover captivating, but from the first page, the author draws the reader with such vivid imagery, that they themselves feel as if they are thrust into Valla’s world and along her through her journey.
I would’ve read it in one sitting had I not realized it was somehow already 2 am after starting it at 9 pm.
It is fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat
for 3/4 of the book. I often caught myself holding my breath for what was to come. It is equal parts disturbing and suspenseful; however, it was not too much for someone who isn’t usually drawn to a thriller/horror/fairytale-esque story.
It is a must read and I will definitely be recommending this one to my friends and family.
December 2, 2024
The beginning was the strongest part of the book for me. It read like a truly dark fairy tale with a very strong Eastern European vibe throughout. Valla is a young girl sent off very far away, to marry a well off Count about whom she knows absolutely nothing about. Her journey is difficult, and her life becomes even harder once she's at the castle and sees what goes on in the castle.
Once the truth behind the creatures of the forest is revealed to our young heroine, the book lost it's main appeal to me. Valla's strength came from her own drive to persevere, but the 'gifts' of the forest kind of made her gain power from an outside source (taking away some of her own agency). I would have preferred if she kept her humanity & worked alongside the forest to get rid of the Count and his people. Also, the character of her brother wasn't really utilized well in the conclusion of the book. I thought he would take a more active role in helping Valla, but other than one scene, he felt kind of forgotten by the plot.
The folk horror vibes are STRONG here, and that is the best part of "A Girl Walks into the Forest", horror fans will especially love the battle at the castle (it weaves horror & action together really well).
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
Once the truth behind the creatures of the forest is revealed to our young heroine, the book lost it's main appeal to me. Valla's strength came from her own drive to persevere, but the 'gifts' of the forest kind of made her gain power from an outside source (taking away some of her own agency). I would have preferred if she kept her humanity & worked alongside the forest to get rid of the Count and his people. Also, the character of her brother wasn't really utilized well in the conclusion of the book. I thought he would take a more active role in helping Valla, but other than one scene, he felt kind of forgotten by the plot.
The folk horror vibes are STRONG here, and that is the best part of "A Girl Walks into the Forest", horror fans will especially love the battle at the castle (it weaves horror & action together really well).
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
June 21, 2025
Roux's writing has noticeably improved since her previous work. I enjoyed the characters and world building but had a hard time getting into the story; it just felt disconnected. Pacing was executed well.
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If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, pen pals, traveling books, and a lot more!
June 13, 2025
"This darkness is my darkness."
A young girl has been prepared since she was little to be given away to a Count in a castle - to be married off because she is beautiful. She's waited years and she's finally old enough to be sent to him, her soon to be husband, and live the easy life she was promised.
But as she moves through the forest near her house, the one between her and her new castle, she forest fights back. Once she arrives to the Count, she realizes she did not fully understand what she was walking into.
This was such a fun but dark read. There are terrible people in here, and a house with legs. I had no idea the lore this story leaned on and I loved when I encountered it. The rage and the vengeance was just a lovely part of the story and I reveled as did the forest.
A young girl has been prepared since she was little to be given away to a Count in a castle - to be married off because she is beautiful. She's waited years and she's finally old enough to be sent to him, her soon to be husband, and live the easy life she was promised.
But as she moves through the forest near her house, the one between her and her new castle, she forest fights back. Once she arrives to the Count, she realizes she did not fully understand what she was walking into.
This was such a fun but dark read. There are terrible people in here, and a house with legs. I had no idea the lore this story leaned on and I loved when I encountered it. The rage and the vengeance was just a lovely part of the story and I reveled as did the forest.
December 13, 2024
THE COVER. THE SYNOPSIS. HORROR FOLKLORE. Not to mention dark, bleak villages, a deadly forest, and a magical villain in a palace. And it’s a BABA YAGA retelling aka one of the SCARIEST FOLKTALES OUT THERE? I internally ran through the hills screaming when I saw that I got approved to read this book a whole 6 months early!
The worldbuilding is my favorite part of the book, as it usually is in books like these. There is nothing appealing about the village of Arylik where Valla is from, where the ice never melts and the trees look withered. Depressing. But the Count’s castle is so much worse than Arylik I cannot even begin to tell you…..You don’t get much info about the country/kingdom itself, and life outside of the vicinity of the Gottyar Wood is only mentioned. Though, you do find out that the whole kingdom/country (or whatever it is) isn’t bleak like this, since the book hints towards brighter more populated territories such as the Capital and the central territories where life is filled with sunshine and swans, unlike the poor, bleak villages. It does make the book feel less bleak knowing there are people in this book world living better lives, you just don’t get to see it, which sucks for our characters!
As for us, our bleak setting begins near the village of Arylik is the Gottyar Wood and despite the dangers of the cursed and haunted wood, there actually is civilization inside the wood (but only a handful of families who manage to survive there though idk why anyone would choose to stay there), and even trading posts and watchtowers inside. But, all remain close to the single road that goes through it, and staying close to the road is the only safe way to travel through it. The most renowned danger of the forest are the Yiliskii, the cursed children of the forest, but there are also haunting toneless songs that carry in the wind, trees that bleed red sap, and false deer paths that become spirals. Most notably, the mysterious Count, the future husband of Valla, who lives in a castle within the Gottyar Wood. It appears that this place is a fictional version of some sort of Slavic country, as I was googling some of the cultural terms in this book to find that they’re not from any existing language, so they must’ve been made up words to resemble Russian or Polish.
This book is DARK. It’s dark and brutal and however evil you think the Count will be, he’s worse. It’s bleak and hopeless and makes you wish you were back in that little village at the beginning of the book that seems far less undesirable after you experience the Count’s castle. There’s also a massive twist near the middle that I genuinely didn’t see coming. The thing is, the book starts really strong. When the book is setting everything up and you experience all the dark ambience and you’re learning the world building and you feel so much anticipation for it all. But that’s the thing, the anticipation of what you think it’ll be like is better than the actual thing. The beginning is GREAT. But once you end up in the Count’s castle, it kind of drags. It picks up after a while but the beginning parts of her life at the castle are kind of just filler. It feels like, strong beginning and set up, filler middle, then action packed end. I kind of wish the middle had more going for it aside from her being miserable in that castle and not other plot aside from little things that are setting the stage for the ending. I still enjoyed this a lot, it just wasn’t as creepy as I’d hoped it would be. The villains were way worse than I was expecting though. It’s more so a story of brutality and human evil, than a creepy horror story about a dangerous wood and a haunted castle, which was more of what I was expecting and hoping for. I still enjoyed this though, and the amazing worldbuilding and the incredible setting are where this book truly shines. 3.5/5 but I’ll round it up to 4 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quill Tree for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
The worldbuilding is my favorite part of the book, as it usually is in books like these. There is nothing appealing about the village of Arylik where Valla is from, where the ice never melts and the trees look withered. Depressing. But the Count’s castle is so much worse than Arylik I cannot even begin to tell you…..You don’t get much info about the country/kingdom itself, and life outside of the vicinity of the Gottyar Wood is only mentioned. Though, you do find out that the whole kingdom/country (or whatever it is) isn’t bleak like this, since the book hints towards brighter more populated territories such as the Capital and the central territories where life is filled with sunshine and swans, unlike the poor, bleak villages. It does make the book feel less bleak knowing there are people in this book world living better lives, you just don’t get to see it, which sucks for our characters!
As for us, our bleak setting begins near the village of Arylik is the Gottyar Wood and despite the dangers of the cursed and haunted wood, there actually is civilization inside the wood (but only a handful of families who manage to survive there though idk why anyone would choose to stay there), and even trading posts and watchtowers inside. But, all remain close to the single road that goes through it, and staying close to the road is the only safe way to travel through it. The most renowned danger of the forest are the Yiliskii, the cursed children of the forest, but there are also haunting toneless songs that carry in the wind, trees that bleed red sap, and false deer paths that become spirals. Most notably, the mysterious Count, the future husband of Valla, who lives in a castle within the Gottyar Wood. It appears that this place is a fictional version of some sort of Slavic country, as I was googling some of the cultural terms in this book to find that they’re not from any existing language, so they must’ve been made up words to resemble Russian or Polish.
This book is DARK. It’s dark and brutal and however evil you think the Count will be, he’s worse. It’s bleak and hopeless and makes you wish you were back in that little village at the beginning of the book that seems far less undesirable after you experience the Count’s castle. There’s also a massive twist near the middle that I genuinely didn’t see coming. The thing is, the book starts really strong. When the book is setting everything up and you experience all the dark ambience and you’re learning the world building and you feel so much anticipation for it all. But that’s the thing, the anticipation of what you think it’ll be like is better than the actual thing. The beginning is GREAT. But once you end up in the Count’s castle, it kind of drags. It picks up after a while but the beginning parts of her life at the castle are kind of just filler. It feels like, strong beginning and set up, filler middle, then action packed end. I kind of wish the middle had more going for it aside from her being miserable in that castle and not other plot aside from little things that are setting the stage for the ending. I still enjoyed this a lot, it just wasn’t as creepy as I’d hoped it would be. The villains were way worse than I was expecting though. It’s more so a story of brutality and human evil, than a creepy horror story about a dangerous wood and a haunted castle, which was more of what I was expecting and hoping for. I still enjoyed this though, and the amazing worldbuilding and the incredible setting are where this book truly shines. 3.5/5 but I’ll round it up to 4 stars.
Thank you to Netgalley and Quill Tree for sending me an advanced copy in return for my honest review.
December 22, 2024
Thanks to Quill Tree Books & NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for an honest review. Sadly, I DNF'ed at 20%.
Wasn't a fan of the plot, ridiculous characters, and writing. Nothing really made sense either.
Wasn't a fan of the plot, ridiculous characters, and writing. Nothing really made sense either.
May 13, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
While this book is described as being a mix of horror and fairytale/folklore, I would say that the horror element is so small that I would categorize this entirely as a fantasy based on fairytales. I did enjoy the slavic folklore a lot but I was constantly waiting for the horror elements to come more forward and that definitely effected my reading experience.
I liked the main character and I also really liked the way the author writes, but the story itself kind of lost me at points. I really liked the element of women's empowerment in this and the exploration of abuse women face was really well written.
All of this to say, I do still recommend this for readers of fantasy and lovers of fairytales. If you go into this expecting folklore and fairytales, you will love this! So, ignore the mention of horror, as it's barely present in the story.
While this book is described as being a mix of horror and fairytale/folklore, I would say that the horror element is so small that I would categorize this entirely as a fantasy based on fairytales. I did enjoy the slavic folklore a lot but I was constantly waiting for the horror elements to come more forward and that definitely effected my reading experience.
I liked the main character and I also really liked the way the author writes, but the story itself kind of lost me at points. I really liked the element of women's empowerment in this and the exploration of abuse women face was really well written.
All of this to say, I do still recommend this for readers of fantasy and lovers of fairytales. If you go into this expecting folklore and fairytales, you will love this! So, ignore the mention of horror, as it's barely present in the story.
May 27, 2025
defeating an eldritch horror < becoming an eldritch horror
oh my god. this book is horrifying.
in a very 'this is what girls across time and the world have done and I should be eternally grateful that i will never have to be sent out of my home and into the arms of a strange man and a strange house with strange people and strange customs' kind of way. (not to mention the 'house' literally has a moat filled with their shit)
but oh my god do I love this book.
it has been so long since I have been truly shocked by a book, plots these days have become too predictable, too formulated but this was wild and gruesome and evil (and not the best to read at 3am... whoops) and it's everything I've been loving in books recently.
its the perfect dark fairytale/folklore story that will chill you to your bones and guard those you care about, very close to your chest.
thanks to edelweiss and quill tree for the arc!
oh my god. this book is horrifying.
in a very 'this is what girls across time and the world have done and I should be eternally grateful that i will never have to be sent out of my home and into the arms of a strange man and a strange house with strange people and strange customs' kind of way. (not to mention the 'house' literally has a moat filled with their shit)
but oh my god do I love this book.
it has been so long since I have been truly shocked by a book, plots these days have become too predictable, too formulated but this was wild and gruesome and evil (and not the best to read at 3am... whoops) and it's everything I've been loving in books recently.
its the perfect dark fairytale/folklore story that will chill you to your bones and guard those you care about, very close to your chest.
thanks to edelweiss and quill tree for the arc!
May 27, 2025
thank you to netgalley for allowing me to read an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
i’ve said it many times in many reviews but there is nothing i love more than seeing men get what they deserve!!! start to finish this book was so intriguing and hard to put down once i picked it up. it’s so fun and refreshing seeing a different set of monsters with the use of folklore. the world building in this was so well done. the plot was amazing. the characters (even the ones i hated) were so well done and believable. all in all, the perfect mix of horror and fantasy with women getting their much overdue revenge.
i’ve said it many times in many reviews but there is nothing i love more than seeing men get what they deserve!!! start to finish this book was so intriguing and hard to put down once i picked it up. it’s so fun and refreshing seeing a different set of monsters with the use of folklore. the world building in this was so well done. the plot was amazing. the characters (even the ones i hated) were so well done and believable. all in all, the perfect mix of horror and fantasy with women getting their much overdue revenge.
November 19, 2024
If Mike Flanagan needs new source material I do believe this book would be the perfect muse.
‘A Girl Walks into the Forest” to meet the mysterious Count who upon observing her portrait deems her beautiful enough to become his bride , but it is not a journey of longing and love as she finds herself along a road of monsters leading to her home of nightmares.
Was a spooky little thing.
I don’t know where to begin with this it feels very much like a fairy tale whispered under candlelight but also like a book of horrors you can’t quite escape from. The mythology was very interesting and while I’m somewhat familiar with the tale of Baba Yaga there were some pieces and creatures that I am not sure are unique to this story or also that of folklore but I would be very curious to find out.
Our characters were fascinating as we slowly pull back the layers or masks in some cases to uncover what they are truly made of and I couldn’t get enough of it! As the reader you are just as I’m the dark as Valla trying to figure out if there are any allies to be found in the lonely tower and that isolation builds beautifully to its ultimate conclusion. There’s a bit of a steampunk vibe that felt a tad out of place when going against the religious and old world like traditions that didn’t really get explored much to explain such contrast but if that’s the only criticism I have it’s truly the smallest of its kind.
This is a book of suffering and death and I enjoyed every second of it.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
‘A Girl Walks into the Forest” to meet the mysterious Count who upon observing her portrait deems her beautiful enough to become his bride , but it is not a journey of longing and love as she finds herself along a road of monsters leading to her home of nightmares.
Was a spooky little thing.
I don’t know where to begin with this it feels very much like a fairy tale whispered under candlelight but also like a book of horrors you can’t quite escape from. The mythology was very interesting and while I’m somewhat familiar with the tale of Baba Yaga there were some pieces and creatures that I am not sure are unique to this story or also that of folklore but I would be very curious to find out.
Our characters were fascinating as we slowly pull back the layers or masks in some cases to uncover what they are truly made of and I couldn’t get enough of it! As the reader you are just as I’m the dark as Valla trying to figure out if there are any allies to be found in the lonely tower and that isolation builds beautifully to its ultimate conclusion. There’s a bit of a steampunk vibe that felt a tad out of place when going against the religious and old world like traditions that didn’t really get explored much to explain such contrast but if that’s the only criticism I have it’s truly the smallest of its kind.
This is a book of suffering and death and I enjoyed every second of it.
**special thanks to the publishers and netgalley for providing an arc in exchange for a fair and honest review**
March 31, 2025
A novel about learning to trust and rely on oneself, and embracing the strength from within.
We follow Valla, chosen to be the bride of the Count Leonid in exchange for providing for her village. But when she is injured traveling through the woods towards her betrothed, she realizes that promises mean nothing and she must do whatever it takes to survive her new husband.
A combination of fairytale and horror, it isn’t until we see the true colors of everyone around that Valla can embrace her anger to claw her way to victory - no matter the cost. This book was a whirlwind of events, and there were multiple twists I absolutely didn’t see coming. Without spoiling anything, I’ll say that I really enjoyed how the multiple villains within this novel were handled - even those we are unaware are villains until it is almost too late. (I will say that I was a bit disappointed that one character is so violently treated and then killed, but then another survives - if only because it makes the one who survived much more tragic, despite the almost-hopeful feeling at the end of this novel.)
Brutal and dark, this book doesn’t hesitate to explore the darker aspects hidden in any fairytale, and forces Valla to either embrace her destiny and thrive - or to wither and die.
A huge thank you to the author, NetGalley, and HarperCollins Children's Books for providing this e-ARC.
We follow Valla, chosen to be the bride of the Count Leonid in exchange for providing for her village. But when she is injured traveling through the woods towards her betrothed, she realizes that promises mean nothing and she must do whatever it takes to survive her new husband.
A combination of fairytale and horror, it isn’t until we see the true colors of everyone around that Valla can embrace her anger to claw her way to victory - no matter the cost. This book was a whirlwind of events, and there were multiple twists I absolutely didn’t see coming. Without spoiling anything, I’ll say that I really enjoyed how the multiple villains within this novel were handled - even those we are unaware are villains until it is almost too late. (I will say that I was a bit disappointed that one character is so violently treated and then killed, but then another survives - if only because it makes the one who survived much more tragic, despite the almost-hopeful feeling at the end of this novel.)
Brutal and dark, this book doesn’t hesitate to explore the darker aspects hidden in any fairytale, and forces Valla to either embrace her destiny and thrive - or to wither and die.
A huge thank you to the author, NetGalley, and HarperCollins Children's Books for providing this e-ARC.
March 30, 2025
4.0⭐️ Valla is a simple girl from a rural village who is promised in marriage to a far-off count who will send supplies and gold in exchange for her hand. She envisions a golden palace, a gentle husband, and a cushy life as a countess, but she has to make her way to his castle in the middle of a treacherous magical woods first. When she does, she finds her situation is a little different than she had imagined.
This was a fun Baba Yaga retelling with a great feminist lean! I enjoyed Valla as a main character and how she retained her humanity and empathy despite how dark her story got at times. I would say it toes the line of fantasy and gothic horror well, mixing the best aspects of both. I did feel there were a few loose threads at the end of the story though, and I would have liked an epilogue of some sort since the ending is pretty abrupt. The writing is solid enough and the pacing kept me engaged enough to finish in a few days. I’d highly recommend if, like me, you support women’s right and women’s wrongs
This was a fun Baba Yaga retelling with a great feminist lean! I enjoyed Valla as a main character and how she retained her humanity and empathy despite how dark her story got at times. I would say it toes the line of fantasy and gothic horror well, mixing the best aspects of both. I did feel there were a few loose threads at the end of the story though, and I would have liked an epilogue of some sort since the ending is pretty abrupt. The writing is solid enough and the pacing kept me engaged enough to finish in a few days. I’d highly recommend if, like me, you support women’s right and women’s wrongs
June 13, 2025
Rtc. Promising book held back by subpar pacing.
June 30, 2025
4.5⭐️
Loved this! Not at all what I was expecting, but in the best way possible.
Thank you Madeleine Roux and Quill Tree Books for the early copy! <3
Loved this! Not at all what I was expecting, but in the best way possible.
Thank you Madeleine Roux and Quill Tree Books for the early copy! <3
June 22, 2025
Metal AF Baba Yaga revenge story.
June 21, 2025
The story follows Valla, a young woman from the bleak village of Arylik whose beauty marks her as tribute to the mysterious Count Leonid. What begins as a seemingly familiar "beauty and the beast" premise quickly morphs into something far more sinister when Valla's journey through the deadly Gottyar Wood leaves her face scarred beyond recognition. The Count's rejection becomes the catalyst for a transformation that goes far deeper than skin—one that will see Valla embrace powers that are both terrible and necessary.
A Portrait of Power Reclaimed
The Mythology of Scarred Beauty
Roux's greatest achievement lies in her unflinching examination of beauty as both currency and cage. Valla's initial identity rests entirely on her appearance—she is "Arylik's flower," set aside from childhood for a destiny determined by her looks alone. When the rozhmaka's claws tear across her face, the author doesn't offer easy healing or magical restoration. Instead, she forces both character and reader to confront what happens when society's most valued commodity is stripped away.
The scars become a form of liberation as much as disfigurement. Valla's journey from passive beauty to active agent feels earned rather than contrived, rooted in genuine trauma and growth. Roux writes Valla's pain with unflinching honesty—the physical agony of torn flesh, yes, but more importantly, the psychological devastation of losing one's entire sense of identity. The prose itself mirrors this transformation, evolving from lyrical descriptions of Valla's village life to something darker and more primal as she embraces her connection to the forest.
Baba Yaga's Living Legacy
The incorporation of Slavic folklore feels organic rather than appropriative, woven into the narrative's DNA rather than painted on as exotic decoration. The Baba Yaga figure—revealed as the forest witch who has been manipulating events for centuries—represents both mother and monster, protector and predator. Her house on chicken legs, the walking Hutch, becomes a character in its own right, breathing and responding to emotion.
Roux's interpretation of the witch archetype avoids simple good-versus-evil dichotomies. The Baba Yaga's methods are brutal—using girls as pawns in her war against the Count's family—but her motivations stem from justified rage against systemic violence. This moral complexity elevates the story above typical YA fantasy fare, demanding readers grapple with uncomfortable questions about justice, revenge, and the price of protection.
Gothic Horror Meets Folk Wisdom
Atmospheric World-Building
The Gottyar Wood pulses with malevolent life, described in prose that makes every shadow feel predatory. Roux's background in horror serves her well here—the forest isn't merely a setting but an active participant in the story. The yiliksii (forest children), rozhmaka, and other creatures feel authentically folkloric rather than simply invented. They emerge from the wood's own needs and memories, given form by centuries of violence and neglect.
The castle of Valtivisk provides a perfect counterpoint to the organic chaos of the forest. Where the wood breathes and grows, the castle calcifies and corrupts. The Count's family represents the worst of patriarchal power—men who view women as commodities to be consumed and discarded. Leonid's obsession with beauty becomes grotesque when paired with his casual cruelty, while his brother Ermo's "gentler" approach reveals itself as equally manipulative.
Violence as Narrative Engine
The book doesn't shy away from depicting violence, but Roux wields it with purpose rather than sensationalism. The brutality serves the story's themes—each act of violence has consequences that ripple through the narrative. Valla's scarring, her brother Gavril's torture, the systematic abuse of previous brides—these aren't mere plot devices but foundational traumas that shape character development.
The transformation of violence from something done to Valla into something she controls marks the story's central arc. When she finally embraces her role as the forest's heir, her power manifests as natural brutality—roots that strangle, beetles that devour, the very earth rising up to reclaim what was taken. It's cathartic without being simplistic, acknowledging that sometimes justice requires teeth and claws.
Character Development Through Trauma
Valla's Evolution
Valla's character arc feels authentic in its messiness. She doesn't transform overnight from victim to victor; instead, she grapples with her changing identity throughout the narrative. Early chapters show her clinging to dreams of beauty and status even after her scarring, highlighting how deeply internalized these values have become. Her gradual acceptance of her new role—first as survivor, then as avenger, finally as guardian—unfolds with psychological realism.
The relationship between Valla and her mute brother Gavril provides emotional grounding. Their bond survives trauma and transformation, offering hope that love can endure even when everything else changes. Gavril's silence, caused by his tongue being cut out by the Count's men, speaks to the story's themes about finding voice and agency despite systemic silencing.
Supporting Cast Complexity
The secondary characters avoid simple categorization. Yulnia, the Count's sister, wavers between victim and collaborator, her manipulation of Valla stemming from her own powerlessness within the family structure. Even the servants show depth—Marwa's protective instincts toward the castle's women reveal the networks of care that exist within oppressive systems.
The forest creatures themselves function as characters rather than mere monsters. The yiliksii retain traces of their former humanity while serving their new purpose. Their innocent appearance contrasts sharply with their grisly work, embodying the story's theme that survival sometimes requires embracing what others might call monstrous.
Critical Observations
Pacing and Structure Strengths
Roux demonstrates masterful pacing, allowing tension to build organically rather than relying on manufactured urgency. The early chapters establish Valla's world and values thoroughly before destroying them, making the subsequent transformation feel inevitable rather than arbitrary. The forest sequences balance action with introspection, giving characters time to process trauma while maintaining narrative momentum.
Areas for Improvement
While the book succeeds in most areas, some elements feel underdeveloped. The Count's backstory, while hinted at through the Baba Yaga's revelations, could have been fleshed out more thoroughly. Understanding his family's original grievances against the forest might have added complexity to the conflict's resolution.
Additionally, certain secondary characters disappear from the narrative without proper closure. The fate of some castle servants and the broader implications of the Count's death for the surrounding region receive minimal attention. These omissions don't derail the story but do leave some threads dangling.
Thematic Resonance
The book's exploration of beauty standards, bodily autonomy, and gendered violence feels particularly relevant to contemporary discussions. Roux doesn't offer easy answers but rather presents the complexities inherent in these issues. Valla's journey toward self-acceptance happens alongside her embrace of power—suggesting that healing and strength often go hand in hand.
Final Verdict: A Fierce and Necessary Story
A Girl Walks Into the Forest succeeds as both entertainment and artistic statement. Roux has crafted a story that honors folkloric traditions while speaking to contemporary concerns about agency, identity, and justice. The book doesn't offer easy comfort—its vision of healing requires confronting hard truths about power and violence. But for readers willing to follow Valla into the dark heart of the forest, the journey proves both harrowing and ultimately hopeful.
The novel works on multiple levels: as a reimagined fairy tale, a horror story about survival, and a meditation on what it means to reclaim power after trauma. While not without minor flaws, it represents Roux at her most ambitious and successful. This is a book that will stay with readers long after the final page, its images and themes continuing to resonate.
A Portrait of Power Reclaimed
The Mythology of Scarred Beauty
Roux's greatest achievement lies in her unflinching examination of beauty as both currency and cage. Valla's initial identity rests entirely on her appearance—she is "Arylik's flower," set aside from childhood for a destiny determined by her looks alone. When the rozhmaka's claws tear across her face, the author doesn't offer easy healing or magical restoration. Instead, she forces both character and reader to confront what happens when society's most valued commodity is stripped away.
The scars become a form of liberation as much as disfigurement. Valla's journey from passive beauty to active agent feels earned rather than contrived, rooted in genuine trauma and growth. Roux writes Valla's pain with unflinching honesty—the physical agony of torn flesh, yes, but more importantly, the psychological devastation of losing one's entire sense of identity. The prose itself mirrors this transformation, evolving from lyrical descriptions of Valla's village life to something darker and more primal as she embraces her connection to the forest.
Baba Yaga's Living Legacy
The incorporation of Slavic folklore feels organic rather than appropriative, woven into the narrative's DNA rather than painted on as exotic decoration. The Baba Yaga figure—revealed as the forest witch who has been manipulating events for centuries—represents both mother and monster, protector and predator. Her house on chicken legs, the walking Hutch, becomes a character in its own right, breathing and responding to emotion.
Roux's interpretation of the witch archetype avoids simple good-versus-evil dichotomies. The Baba Yaga's methods are brutal—using girls as pawns in her war against the Count's family—but her motivations stem from justified rage against systemic violence. This moral complexity elevates the story above typical YA fantasy fare, demanding readers grapple with uncomfortable questions about justice, revenge, and the price of protection.
Gothic Horror Meets Folk Wisdom
Atmospheric World-Building
The Gottyar Wood pulses with malevolent life, described in prose that makes every shadow feel predatory. Roux's background in horror serves her well here—the forest isn't merely a setting but an active participant in the story. The yiliksii (forest children), rozhmaka, and other creatures feel authentically folkloric rather than simply invented. They emerge from the wood's own needs and memories, given form by centuries of violence and neglect.
The castle of Valtivisk provides a perfect counterpoint to the organic chaos of the forest. Where the wood breathes and grows, the castle calcifies and corrupts. The Count's family represents the worst of patriarchal power—men who view women as commodities to be consumed and discarded. Leonid's obsession with beauty becomes grotesque when paired with his casual cruelty, while his brother Ermo's "gentler" approach reveals itself as equally manipulative.
Violence as Narrative Engine
The book doesn't shy away from depicting violence, but Roux wields it with purpose rather than sensationalism. The brutality serves the story's themes—each act of violence has consequences that ripple through the narrative. Valla's scarring, her brother Gavril's torture, the systematic abuse of previous brides—these aren't mere plot devices but foundational traumas that shape character development.
The transformation of violence from something done to Valla into something she controls marks the story's central arc. When she finally embraces her role as the forest's heir, her power manifests as natural brutality—roots that strangle, beetles that devour, the very earth rising up to reclaim what was taken. It's cathartic without being simplistic, acknowledging that sometimes justice requires teeth and claws.
Character Development Through Trauma
Valla's Evolution
Valla's character arc feels authentic in its messiness. She doesn't transform overnight from victim to victor; instead, she grapples with her changing identity throughout the narrative. Early chapters show her clinging to dreams of beauty and status even after her scarring, highlighting how deeply internalized these values have become. Her gradual acceptance of her new role—first as survivor, then as avenger, finally as guardian—unfolds with psychological realism.
The relationship between Valla and her mute brother Gavril provides emotional grounding. Their bond survives trauma and transformation, offering hope that love can endure even when everything else changes. Gavril's silence, caused by his tongue being cut out by the Count's men, speaks to the story's themes about finding voice and agency despite systemic silencing.
Supporting Cast Complexity
The secondary characters avoid simple categorization. Yulnia, the Count's sister, wavers between victim and collaborator, her manipulation of Valla stemming from her own powerlessness within the family structure. Even the servants show depth—Marwa's protective instincts toward the castle's women reveal the networks of care that exist within oppressive systems.
The forest creatures themselves function as characters rather than mere monsters. The yiliksii retain traces of their former humanity while serving their new purpose. Their innocent appearance contrasts sharply with their grisly work, embodying the story's theme that survival sometimes requires embracing what others might call monstrous.
Critical Observations
Pacing and Structure Strengths
Roux demonstrates masterful pacing, allowing tension to build organically rather than relying on manufactured urgency. The early chapters establish Valla's world and values thoroughly before destroying them, making the subsequent transformation feel inevitable rather than arbitrary. The forest sequences balance action with introspection, giving characters time to process trauma while maintaining narrative momentum.
Areas for Improvement
While the book succeeds in most areas, some elements feel underdeveloped. The Count's backstory, while hinted at through the Baba Yaga's revelations, could have been fleshed out more thoroughly. Understanding his family's original grievances against the forest might have added complexity to the conflict's resolution.
Additionally, certain secondary characters disappear from the narrative without proper closure. The fate of some castle servants and the broader implications of the Count's death for the surrounding region receive minimal attention. These omissions don't derail the story but do leave some threads dangling.
Thematic Resonance
The book's exploration of beauty standards, bodily autonomy, and gendered violence feels particularly relevant to contemporary discussions. Roux doesn't offer easy answers but rather presents the complexities inherent in these issues. Valla's journey toward self-acceptance happens alongside her embrace of power—suggesting that healing and strength often go hand in hand.
Final Verdict: A Fierce and Necessary Story
A Girl Walks Into the Forest succeeds as both entertainment and artistic statement. Roux has crafted a story that honors folkloric traditions while speaking to contemporary concerns about agency, identity, and justice. The book doesn't offer easy comfort—its vision of healing requires confronting hard truths about power and violence. But for readers willing to follow Valla into the dark heart of the forest, the journey proves both harrowing and ultimately hopeful.
The novel works on multiple levels: as a reimagined fairy tale, a horror story about survival, and a meditation on what it means to reclaim power after trauma. While not without minor flaws, it represents Roux at her most ambitious and successful. This is a book that will stay with readers long after the final page, its images and themes continuing to resonate.
November 18, 2024
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for providing me a Arc copy in exchange for my honest review.
ARC Review: A Girl Walks into the Forest
Alright, y’all, this book is an absolute vibe. If you’re into moody, atmospheric reads that mess with your head in the best way possible, A Girl Walks into the Forest by Madeleine Roux is about to take over your life. It’s giving major “main character energy” with a side of “wait, what just happened?” and I’m here for it.
The Lowdown (No Spoilers, I Swear)
Let’s talk about Eliza. She’s that girl—you know, the one who looks like she has her act together but is lowkey battling some serious inner demons. She’s bold, smart, and kinda stubborn, but not in a way that makes you roll your eyes. You just wanna shake her and be like, “Girl, don’t go in that forest!” But she does, obviously, because plot.
The forest? Oh, it’s not just a bunch of trees. This place is wild. It’s creepy, beautiful, and so alive it feels like it’s watching you. Eliza steps in, and suddenly it’s like the forest is the main character, too. Every twist and turn is unsettling in a way that keeps you glued to the page. You’re like, “This can’t get weirder,” and then it does.
The story itself? Think survival drama with a sprinkle of supernatural spice. It’s layered, it’s deep, and it’s not afraid to hit you with those existential questions. Like, what are we even doing here, y’know? But in the most engaging way.
Why It Slaps
First off, the aesthetic of this book is unmatched. It’s moody, dark, and so immersive. You can practically feel the damp forest air and hear the crunch of leaves under your feet. If this book were a TikTok trend, it’d be one of those vibey edits with haunting background music.
Second, the unpredictability. Look, we’ve all read books where you’re like, “Oh, I know where this is going,” but this one? Nah, it keeps you guessing. Just when you think you’ve cracked the code, Roux hits you with a plot twist and you’re left clutching the book like, “What just happened?”
And the themes? They hit. It’s not just a spooky forest adventure; it’s a deep dive into grief, identity, and what it means to keep moving forward when life throws you to the wolves (or the trees, in this case). It’s emotional without being too heavy, which is a hard balance to nail.
Let’s talk about this cover because, whew, it’s a 10/10. Dark, mysterious, and so on point with the story’s energy. If I saw this sitting on a shelf, it’d be an instant “add to cart” moment.
The writing? Roux knows how to paint a picture without going overboard. It’s the perfect mix of descriptive and let’s keep it moving. And while there are a few slower moments (especially in the middle), it feels intentional, like it’s giving you time to breathe before things get wild again.
This book is giving me life. I’d rate it 4/5 stars, and honestly, the only reason it’s not a full five is because there were a couple of spots where the pacing dipped. But other than that? Obsessed.
Would I recommend it? Abso-freaking-lutely. If you’re into books with major , a protagonist you can’t help but root for, and a plot that keeps you on your toes, this is it. It’s the kind of story you’ll finish and immediately wanna talk about, like, “Did that just happen??”
This book is a whole experience, and if you’re not reading it in 2024, you’re sleeping on a banger. Trust me—this one hits different.
ARC Review: A Girl Walks into the Forest
Alright, y’all, this book is an absolute vibe. If you’re into moody, atmospheric reads that mess with your head in the best way possible, A Girl Walks into the Forest by Madeleine Roux is about to take over your life. It’s giving major “main character energy” with a side of “wait, what just happened?” and I’m here for it.
The Lowdown (No Spoilers, I Swear)
Let’s talk about Eliza. She’s that girl—you know, the one who looks like she has her act together but is lowkey battling some serious inner demons. She’s bold, smart, and kinda stubborn, but not in a way that makes you roll your eyes. You just wanna shake her and be like, “Girl, don’t go in that forest!” But she does, obviously, because plot.
The forest? Oh, it’s not just a bunch of trees. This place is wild. It’s creepy, beautiful, and so alive it feels like it’s watching you. Eliza steps in, and suddenly it’s like the forest is the main character, too. Every twist and turn is unsettling in a way that keeps you glued to the page. You’re like, “This can’t get weirder,” and then it does.
The story itself? Think survival drama with a sprinkle of supernatural spice. It’s layered, it’s deep, and it’s not afraid to hit you with those existential questions. Like, what are we even doing here, y’know? But in the most engaging way.
Why It Slaps
First off, the aesthetic of this book is unmatched. It’s moody, dark, and so immersive. You can practically feel the damp forest air and hear the crunch of leaves under your feet. If this book were a TikTok trend, it’d be one of those vibey edits with haunting background music.
Second, the unpredictability. Look, we’ve all read books where you’re like, “Oh, I know where this is going,” but this one? Nah, it keeps you guessing. Just when you think you’ve cracked the code, Roux hits you with a plot twist and you’re left clutching the book like, “What just happened?”
And the themes? They hit. It’s not just a spooky forest adventure; it’s a deep dive into grief, identity, and what it means to keep moving forward when life throws you to the wolves (or the trees, in this case). It’s emotional without being too heavy, which is a hard balance to nail.
Let’s talk about this cover because, whew, it’s a 10/10. Dark, mysterious, and so on point with the story’s energy. If I saw this sitting on a shelf, it’d be an instant “add to cart” moment.
The writing? Roux knows how to paint a picture without going overboard. It’s the perfect mix of descriptive and let’s keep it moving. And while there are a few slower moments (especially in the middle), it feels intentional, like it’s giving you time to breathe before things get wild again.
This book is giving me life. I’d rate it 4/5 stars, and honestly, the only reason it’s not a full five is because there were a couple of spots where the pacing dipped. But other than that? Obsessed.
Would I recommend it? Abso-freaking-lutely. If you’re into books with major , a protagonist you can’t help but root for, and a plot that keeps you on your toes, this is it. It’s the kind of story you’ll finish and immediately wanna talk about, like, “Did that just happen??”
This book is a whole experience, and if you’re not reading it in 2024, you’re sleeping on a banger. Trust me—this one hits different.
June 2, 2025
My usual reads are romance, suspense, thriller, and fantasy. This book has a little of each one (well, not so much romance, mostly infatuation) mixed in with horror. That's a great combination to keep you invested.
I read the first four chapters twice on different occasions. During the first time, I wasn't sure about Valla. I couldn't decipher if she was caring or conceited. She loves the land but then talks down about its people. She knows her beauty is an asset, and I felt she found herself superior to the rest. She didn't have a kind word about the others in the village. After reading that, I had to put the book down because I was annoyed with her. I gave it a week and started to read again. This time around, I read it with a different attitude. Yes, she still believes her beauty will save her; however, I started to see the loneliness she felt. The isolation from the others and from her own family. I asked myself why I couldn't see that the first time around. Was it the mood I was in at that time? Was I not truly reading between the lines and only taking things at face value? Goes to show that reading a book can evoke different feelings at any given time and how others can interpret the same book differently.
The forest was a character all on its own. Creepy, haunting, with unknown creatures lurking about. This is where the horror begins. From the moment the characters stepped into that forest, there was no going back. The atmosphere was a great set-up for the rest of the story. I didn’t realize until the end that the events that transpired in the beginning were foreshadowing of things to come.
I was surprised how fast Valla's attack happened. I initially thought it was a crucial event that would happen later in the story. I was hyping myself up like ‘Alright! No slow burn here!’. It made me wonder what the rest of the story would be about since there were so many pages left. In the forest, I was upset with Valla when she got attacked. She knew how dangerous the forest was, it was stupid for her to go chasing after the creature. Safety in numbers and always have a plan. She knew that! It was one of those facepalm moments. As the story progressed and she made it to her destination, the forest continued to call her. Did Valla belong to the forest or was she being lured? What did it want with her? It’s scary being in her position. All these things happening in unfamiliar territory, finding yourself not in control of your body, and then being surrounded by people who are unusual, and at times, verbally and physically abusive.
When Leonid and Ermo entered the picture, it was the classic good guy, bad guy personas. I hoped that Ermo was truly the good one, but I’ve read too many suspense novels and I’m constantly suspicious of people’s motives. It got to the point that despite Leonid’s brute demeanor, he was going to somehow end up as the hero. I was so wrong. The two brothers are the worst of the worst. I felt relief when Valla exacted her revenge on them, and the method in which she did so was brutally jaw-dropping. It felt like kismet.
I was skeptical of Yulnia. Her character was creepy, especially with the description of her rooms, her appearance, and even her deposition. As though she was two different people at times. I truly hurt for her when it was revealed that her betrothed was not real. I resent Ermo’s reasoning for fabricating such a person. It is not love that tames a person, but freedom.
This book shows you don’t know what’s truly good or evil at surface level. The more I read, the more questions I had. It was frustrating not having answers, but that’s the beauty of mystery. The build-up to the ending was intense: identities uncovered, revelations, murder, mayhem, sorrow, pain… hits you one right after another. A roller coaster of emotions you were never truly prepared for.
I read the first four chapters twice on different occasions. During the first time, I wasn't sure about Valla. I couldn't decipher if she was caring or conceited. She loves the land but then talks down about its people. She knows her beauty is an asset, and I felt she found herself superior to the rest. She didn't have a kind word about the others in the village. After reading that, I had to put the book down because I was annoyed with her. I gave it a week and started to read again. This time around, I read it with a different attitude. Yes, she still believes her beauty will save her; however, I started to see the loneliness she felt. The isolation from the others and from her own family. I asked myself why I couldn't see that the first time around. Was it the mood I was in at that time? Was I not truly reading between the lines and only taking things at face value? Goes to show that reading a book can evoke different feelings at any given time and how others can interpret the same book differently.
The forest was a character all on its own. Creepy, haunting, with unknown creatures lurking about. This is where the horror begins. From the moment the characters stepped into that forest, there was no going back. The atmosphere was a great set-up for the rest of the story. I didn’t realize until the end that the events that transpired in the beginning were foreshadowing of things to come.
I was surprised how fast Valla's attack happened. I initially thought it was a crucial event that would happen later in the story. I was hyping myself up like ‘Alright! No slow burn here!’. It made me wonder what the rest of the story would be about since there were so many pages left. In the forest, I was upset with Valla when she got attacked. She knew how dangerous the forest was, it was stupid for her to go chasing after the creature. Safety in numbers and always have a plan. She knew that! It was one of those facepalm moments. As the story progressed and she made it to her destination, the forest continued to call her. Did Valla belong to the forest or was she being lured? What did it want with her? It’s scary being in her position. All these things happening in unfamiliar territory, finding yourself not in control of your body, and then being surrounded by people who are unusual, and at times, verbally and physically abusive.
When Leonid and Ermo entered the picture, it was the classic good guy, bad guy personas. I hoped that Ermo was truly the good one, but I’ve read too many suspense novels and I’m constantly suspicious of people’s motives. It got to the point that despite Leonid’s brute demeanor, he was going to somehow end up as the hero. I was so wrong. The two brothers are the worst of the worst. I felt relief when Valla exacted her revenge on them, and the method in which she did so was brutally jaw-dropping. It felt like kismet.
I was skeptical of Yulnia. Her character was creepy, especially with the description of her rooms, her appearance, and even her deposition. As though she was two different people at times. I truly hurt for her when it was revealed that her betrothed was not real. I resent Ermo’s reasoning for fabricating such a person. It is not love that tames a person, but freedom.
This book shows you don’t know what’s truly good or evil at surface level. The more I read, the more questions I had. It was frustrating not having answers, but that’s the beauty of mystery. The build-up to the ending was intense: identities uncovered, revelations, murder, mayhem, sorrow, pain… hits you one right after another. A roller coaster of emotions you were never truly prepared for.
April 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's book for the ARC.
3.75 stars
Normally, I don't stray into horror fantasy due to my squeamish nature, but when I do, I do look forward to the atmosphere that the author sets up. I was pretty excited to see what would happen in A Girl Walks into the Forest based on the letter to the reader alone. Referring to that particular moment in a girl's life where she realizes that she is less than human and bound by a society they thought they understand? Hurts me so much, but it's so relatable and hard to find the right words to describe that feeling. Due to the letter itself, I may have hyped the book up more in my head than what actually happened as I constantly compared the written words to the feelings the letter invoked within.
Starting out, it felt a bit rough as the main character was a spoiled girl, who had been told she was pretty all her life and let it really get to her head. On top of that, her journey to her husband saddled her with her brother and sister-in-law, which really felt like a road trip to hell. Honestly from that set up alone I was convinced for a little while that the entire book would be about travelling through the forest due to the absolute garbage way they all talked to each other. Valla was downright awful to her companions, but I couldn't put my finger on whether it was due to their crummy attitudes or her upbringing. Especially as Valla's sister-in-law was her former best friend who abandoned her once she married her brother.
When we get "through" the forest, the atmosphere really started to become unsettled and I was vibing with that for a bit, until I realized that I forgot the main character's name. It's wild... despite the fact the story is told in first person POV, we so rarely hear our narrator's name that when I first heard it a good bit in, I was extremely confused on who that character was. What a weird thing to notice. Valla also falls in lust with a dude who is so not her husband. That plot point in itself was a little frustrating as Valla simpered over the much hotter brother instead of freaking out about the situation she was put. It was a little off putting to say the least.
I was willing to forgive a lot as I felt Madeline Roux was working hard on the set up and my stomach got pretty queasy about some of the things that were described. That may be mostly me being a baby, but Valla's new family had a new level of creepiness. Unfortunately, the creepy factor stagnated about the time we reached the climax.
The pacing after the "big reveal" of what was really happening with the forest felt a little too fast and gave me mild whiplash. Valla's personality went back and forth on what she wanted to be. It was also extremely... convenient how Valla was able to solve the problem at the end. Didn't make sense in the context of the story but alas I had finished the story before I could finish the thought as to why exactly it felt weird.
Overall, if you're not into horror stories, I feel this is an interesting one to step into, but be wary of the content as it may not be for everyone.
3.75 stars
Normally, I don't stray into horror fantasy due to my squeamish nature, but when I do, I do look forward to the atmosphere that the author sets up. I was pretty excited to see what would happen in A Girl Walks into the Forest based on the letter to the reader alone. Referring to that particular moment in a girl's life where she realizes that she is less than human and bound by a society they thought they understand? Hurts me so much, but it's so relatable and hard to find the right words to describe that feeling. Due to the letter itself, I may have hyped the book up more in my head than what actually happened as I constantly compared the written words to the feelings the letter invoked within.
Starting out, it felt a bit rough as the main character was a spoiled girl, who had been told she was pretty all her life and let it really get to her head. On top of that, her journey to her husband saddled her with her brother and sister-in-law, which really felt like a road trip to hell. Honestly from that set up alone I was convinced for a little while that the entire book would be about travelling through the forest due to the absolute garbage way they all talked to each other. Valla was downright awful to her companions, but I couldn't put my finger on whether it was due to their crummy attitudes or her upbringing. Especially as Valla's sister-in-law was her former best friend who abandoned her once she married her brother.
When we get "through" the forest, the atmosphere really started to become unsettled and I was vibing with that for a bit, until I realized that I forgot the main character's name. It's wild... despite the fact the story is told in first person POV, we so rarely hear our narrator's name that when I first heard it a good bit in, I was extremely confused on who that character was. What a weird thing to notice. Valla also falls in lust with a dude who is so not her husband. That plot point in itself was a little frustrating as Valla simpered over the much hotter brother instead of freaking out about the situation she was put. It was a little off putting to say the least.
I was willing to forgive a lot as I felt Madeline Roux was working hard on the set up and my stomach got pretty queasy about some of the things that were described. That may be mostly me being a baby, but Valla's new family had a new level of creepiness. Unfortunately, the creepy factor stagnated about the time we reached the climax.
The pacing after the "big reveal" of what was really happening with the forest felt a little too fast and gave me mild whiplash. Valla's personality went back and forth on what she wanted to be. It was also extremely... convenient how Valla was able to solve the problem at the end. Didn't make sense in the context of the story but alas I had finished the story before I could finish the thought as to why exactly it felt weird.
Overall, if you're not into horror stories, I feel this is an interesting one to step into, but be wary of the content as it may not be for everyone.
June 8, 2025
Valla has spent her life as an outcast in her own village. As a child all girls had a small portrait painted of themselve and sent to The Count. The one he chose would be his bride when she became of age and her going to him would save their village. However as soon as she was picked even her family withdrew from her. After all she wasn't meant to live the life of the rest of them, she was meant for grander purposes and all that mattered was keeping her beautiful.
To get to the Count she would have to travel through the Gottyar, a dark foreboding place filled with otherwordly creatures that are known to kill you as soon as they can. Valla's brother Garret and his wife Maksi choose to take her to The Count but on the way Maksi leaves the path. When she returns she is no longer the woman she was when she left the path, Valla jumps in the path of danger to protect her brother and in the process a creature claws her face infecting her with its poison. Mercifully she survives and is delivered to The Count and swiftly after while she is recovering her brother and sister in law leave without saying goodbye.
Valla's life is nothing life what she thought it was supposed to be. The Castle is dark and rundown and her Count is a mean middle aged man who is disguested by the fact that his bride is not what she was supposed to be. So staring for Valla a true nightmare has begun. She finds heself placed in a room with a cage over the bed, a young woman who calls her dolly and has a bedroom full of dolls in different styles that resemble herself, The Counts brother who seems to be the only kind one, and an odd mystic that believes he can bring the dead back to life but horrifyingly they all still eat dinner with the corpse of the previous Count believing that he will be returned to life.
This place that was meant to be her safehaven has become her own personal hell.
After the poison from her infection has faded Valla begins to feel and hear changes. The Woods are reaching out to her, the children of the forest are also reaching out to her. Urging her to destroy The Count, to wet the sharp with his blood. Strange quakes in the castle lead Valla to the story of BonyLegs a witch that lives and protects the woods. Can BonyLegs save Valla from the horrific life she is being forced into?
BonyLegs or as she is also known as Baba Yaga is not always the savior that some think she is. She may give but she also takes and in Valla's case Baba Yaga has plans for her that Valla will either except or be forced to live and end her life the same as The Counts previous brides.
#AGirlWalksIntoTheForest by #MadeleinRoux is a marvelous mix of folktale and horror. I adore the story of Baba Yaga, couldn't tell you why she just fascinates me. So a story such as this makes my heart so happy and the idea that the forest chooses its witch is even better.
I want to thank #Netgalley for the chance to read an eArc of #AGirlWalksIntoTheWoods by #MadeleineRoux in return for a fair and honest review.
To get to the Count she would have to travel through the Gottyar, a dark foreboding place filled with otherwordly creatures that are known to kill you as soon as they can. Valla's brother Garret and his wife Maksi choose to take her to The Count but on the way Maksi leaves the path. When she returns she is no longer the woman she was when she left the path, Valla jumps in the path of danger to protect her brother and in the process a creature claws her face infecting her with its poison. Mercifully she survives and is delivered to The Count and swiftly after while she is recovering her brother and sister in law leave without saying goodbye.
Valla's life is nothing life what she thought it was supposed to be. The Castle is dark and rundown and her Count is a mean middle aged man who is disguested by the fact that his bride is not what she was supposed to be. So staring for Valla a true nightmare has begun. She finds heself placed in a room with a cage over the bed, a young woman who calls her dolly and has a bedroom full of dolls in different styles that resemble herself, The Counts brother who seems to be the only kind one, and an odd mystic that believes he can bring the dead back to life but horrifyingly they all still eat dinner with the corpse of the previous Count believing that he will be returned to life.
This place that was meant to be her safehaven has become her own personal hell.
After the poison from her infection has faded Valla begins to feel and hear changes. The Woods are reaching out to her, the children of the forest are also reaching out to her. Urging her to destroy The Count, to wet the sharp with his blood. Strange quakes in the castle lead Valla to the story of BonyLegs a witch that lives and protects the woods. Can BonyLegs save Valla from the horrific life she is being forced into?
BonyLegs or as she is also known as Baba Yaga is not always the savior that some think she is. She may give but she also takes and in Valla's case Baba Yaga has plans for her that Valla will either except or be forced to live and end her life the same as The Counts previous brides.
#AGirlWalksIntoTheForest by #MadeleinRoux is a marvelous mix of folktale and horror. I adore the story of Baba Yaga, couldn't tell you why she just fascinates me. So a story such as this makes my heart so happy and the idea that the forest chooses its witch is even better.
I want to thank #Netgalley for the chance to read an eArc of #AGirlWalksIntoTheWoods by #MadeleineRoux in return for a fair and honest review.
March 14, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and Quill Tree Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Madeleine Roux’s “A Girl Walks Into the Forest” is a dark, atmospheric blend of fantasy and horror, reminiscent of an old fairy tale whispered around a flickering candle. Inspired by Eastern European folklore, the book follows Valla, a young woman sent from her bleak, frozen village to marry a mysterious Count who resides deep within the cursed Gottyar Wood. What begins as a tale of forced marriage quickly unravels into something far more sinister, as Valla finds herself in a nightmare of monsters, suffering, and secrets lurking in the shadows.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its worldbuilding. The setting is richly developed, from the desolate village of Arylik, where the ice never melts, to the eerie Gottyar Wood, where cursed children roam, trees bleed red sap, and haunting, toneless songs echo through the air. Roux crafts an environment that is both breathtaking and suffocating, making the forest feel like a living entity. The Count’s castle, however, is the true heart of horror—oppressive, labyrinthine, and filled with unspeakable terrors that make Valla’s isolated village seem almost inviting in comparison.
Valla’s journey from a sheltered girl to a hardened survivor is compelling, though at times her transformation feels rushed. Her strength lies in her perseverance, though I did find that her eventual empowerment comes too much from external forces rather than her own agency. The Count, as an antagonist, is utterly monstrous, far worse than expected, making for a villain whose cruelty feels all too real.
The pacing of the book is a bit uneven. The beginning is its strongest section, immersing you in a bleak, folklore-infused world full of anticipation; I absolutely loved the beginning as it sucked me right into the story and wouldn’t let me go. However, once Valla reaches the Count’s castle, the story slows considerably, lingering on her suffering without much progression. The final act, however, picks up dramatically, delivering a horror-filled, action-packed climax that brings brutality, folklore, and vengeance together in a truly haunting way.
Overall, “A Girl Walks Into the Forest” is a beautifully unsettling read, steeped in folklore and dripping with gothic horror. Its haunting atmosphere, strong folk horror elements, and breathtakingly eerie world make it a must-read for fans of dark fairy tales and eerie, immersive horror. If you’re looking for a fairy tale that bites back, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Madeleine Roux’s “A Girl Walks Into the Forest” is a dark, atmospheric blend of fantasy and horror, reminiscent of an old fairy tale whispered around a flickering candle. Inspired by Eastern European folklore, the book follows Valla, a young woman sent from her bleak, frozen village to marry a mysterious Count who resides deep within the cursed Gottyar Wood. What begins as a tale of forced marriage quickly unravels into something far more sinister, as Valla finds herself in a nightmare of monsters, suffering, and secrets lurking in the shadows.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its worldbuilding. The setting is richly developed, from the desolate village of Arylik, where the ice never melts, to the eerie Gottyar Wood, where cursed children roam, trees bleed red sap, and haunting, toneless songs echo through the air. Roux crafts an environment that is both breathtaking and suffocating, making the forest feel like a living entity. The Count’s castle, however, is the true heart of horror—oppressive, labyrinthine, and filled with unspeakable terrors that make Valla’s isolated village seem almost inviting in comparison.
Valla’s journey from a sheltered girl to a hardened survivor is compelling, though at times her transformation feels rushed. Her strength lies in her perseverance, though I did find that her eventual empowerment comes too much from external forces rather than her own agency. The Count, as an antagonist, is utterly monstrous, far worse than expected, making for a villain whose cruelty feels all too real.
The pacing of the book is a bit uneven. The beginning is its strongest section, immersing you in a bleak, folklore-infused world full of anticipation; I absolutely loved the beginning as it sucked me right into the story and wouldn’t let me go. However, once Valla reaches the Count’s castle, the story slows considerably, lingering on her suffering without much progression. The final act, however, picks up dramatically, delivering a horror-filled, action-packed climax that brings brutality, folklore, and vengeance together in a truly haunting way.
Overall, “A Girl Walks Into the Forest” is a beautifully unsettling read, steeped in folklore and dripping with gothic horror. Its haunting atmosphere, strong folk horror elements, and breathtakingly eerie world make it a must-read for fans of dark fairy tales and eerie, immersive horror. If you’re looking for a fairy tale that bites back, this is one you won’t want to miss.
June 18, 2025
Thank you to Quill Tree Books/HarperCollins publishers for an arc of this book.
I'm a fan of horror and fairytales, and this book was definitely giving that. This is a horror dark fantasy, but clearly has some real world historical basis. This book was stylized like a fairytale, but it isn't like your Disney ones, it reads more like your older, traditional darker Grimm's fairytales. In fact, I'd say it sounds exactly like a real folklore story, which is what partially makes the book itself so convincing. I would have actually believed this was one such story.
This book was nothing like I was expecting, and it really made me think. The blurb gives you the general idea of what the book will be about, but be prepared, because that is definitely only the tip of the iceburg. There are several different plot threads in this book, and by the end they are all wrapped up. The plot was one that I very much enjoyed, and it kept me wanting more. I wasn't sure where it was going - which made the book suspenseful.
Speaking of suspenseful, there was a dark and gloomy atmosphere to this book, and it helped ground the book in its reality. I say dark fantasy, but it also had gothic undertones to it as well, a dark, gloomy castle, no sun showing, a bit of a mystery...yes, I definitely think that there was a nice emotional and atmospheric setup in the book. There are three main places that the book takes place in, and each has its very own emotional resonance, and you could tell what part of the story you were in based on the feeling of the book. I loved that aspect.
What I also loved was Valla and her character arc through the book. She starts out as this naive girl, who is a little bit spoiled, but by the end of the book she has transformed into someone completely different. I thought this transformation was brilliantly done. The book itself isn't long, but so much happens within a short span of time, and yet, it didn't feel rushed or anything. It was a slow and intentional build, but it worked.
I won't say anymore, because this book is one you have to read for yourself to get the full experience!
November 26, 2024
If there was ever a book that was made for me, this is the one. Folk Horror includes some of the most enticing, creative, all-encompassing works I have ever read, and A Girl Walks into the Forest is certainly in the upper echelons of that, for me. Valla was a fantastic main character that shone through during all of her interactions with the other characters and the twists and turns that befell her along the way. And ERMO, someone talk to me about ERMO, my god.
If I had a nickel for every Baba Yaga inspired story I read in November, I would have two nickels, which isn't a lot, but it is weird that it happened twice. ((or is it))
My one worry is that this is marketed as a children's book based on the publisher and tags on NetGalley, I definitely see it as YA-Horror for anyone else confused about the classification!
PLOT:
Valla is a young adult whose portrait has been selected from the maidens across the Gottyar Wood (in what we can later assume to be Russia or Russia adjacent) to marry the Count. Because she has been chosen for this prestigious honor, her village of Arylik is a mix of excited for the good fortune this union will bring to their community and deeply, deeply jealous of her good fortune. They eagerly send her off into the dark and mysterious forest where danger lurks behind every tree trunk, including beasts known as rozhmakas and (my favorite) creepy kids with glowing gold eyes known as yiliksii. Their journey through the woods to reach the Count is a perilous one, and due to an unforeseen circumstance, her meeting with the Count does not go as planned AT ALL. Her life in the Count's village is marred by intriguing siblings, mystics with a penchant for necromancy, and surprising allies that turn the last quarter of the plot on its head entirely. I'll leave it there to avoid major spoilers, but be prepared for: dark fairytale vibes, BEAUTIFUL descriptive writing, and a to-die-for main character arc.
THANKS:
Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the e-arc!
If I had a nickel for every Baba Yaga inspired story I read in November, I would have two nickels, which isn't a lot, but it is weird that it happened twice. ((or is it))
My one worry is that this is marketed as a children's book based on the publisher and tags on NetGalley, I definitely see it as YA-Horror for anyone else confused about the classification!
PLOT:
Valla is a young adult whose portrait has been selected from the maidens across the Gottyar Wood (in what we can later assume to be Russia or Russia adjacent) to marry the Count. Because she has been chosen for this prestigious honor, her village of Arylik is a mix of excited for the good fortune this union will bring to their community and deeply, deeply jealous of her good fortune. They eagerly send her off into the dark and mysterious forest where danger lurks behind every tree trunk, including beasts known as rozhmakas and (my favorite) creepy kids with glowing gold eyes known as yiliksii. Their journey through the woods to reach the Count is a perilous one, and due to an unforeseen circumstance, her meeting with the Count does not go as planned AT ALL. Her life in the Count's village is marred by intriguing siblings, mystics with a penchant for necromancy, and surprising allies that turn the last quarter of the plot on its head entirely. I'll leave it there to avoid major spoilers, but be prepared for: dark fairytale vibes, BEAUTIFUL descriptive writing, and a to-die-for main character arc.
THANKS:
Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperCollins Children's Books for the e-arc!
June 20, 2025
“There is nothing particularly brave in me, but tonight that must change.”
All her life, Valla has been told her beauty would be her greatest gift, envied and shunned by people in her community who would never have the chance to leave the village. So, when the rich and powerful Count Leonid chooses her as his wife, she doesn’t think twice. But between her and the Count’s grand estate lies the Gottyar Wood, the dark forest few people have ever escaped. The journey to her new life lives up to her nightmares, and Valla emerges from the woods battered and broken, her once-perfect face torn to shreds. Valla is no longer the girl the Count wanted, and he is no longer the husband she had hoped for. Surviving the terror of the forest was only the beginning of a new life of horror, and what lies beyond the castle walls is more monstrous than anything she has ever faced in the dark.
I absolutely loved this novel. I have been reviewing fantasy and horror novels for over a year now, but I have never encountered a book that seamlessly combines both genres while preserving their best features. Roux’s world-building is complex and stunning in a way that sent a chill down my spine, but also made me want to read more. The folkloric elements of A Girl Walks Into the Forest almost reminded me of the Brothers Grimm, as they are mystically treacherous and horrifying, rejecting the typical fairy tales told to children. As terrifying as Roux describes the Gottyar Wood, she adds a level of curiosity that seems to pull both the reader and Valla in. I loved the choice of first-person point of view, as the reader needed to experience the internal nightmares Valla faced as she transformed into a strong female lead throughout the story. Our heroine was initially a traditional village girl, longing for marriage and a better life. As she was exposed to more dark secrets of the Gottyar Wood, however, she transitioned into a fiercely independent and powerful character. As her ties to the creatures of the wood grew stronger and her actions became more violent, I was on the edge of my seat waiting for her next move. Supported by frightening imagery and dark secrets, A Girl Walks Into the Forest will have you fearing the forest and what lies within.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank SparkPoint Studio and Quill Tree Books for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
All her life, Valla has been told her beauty would be her greatest gift, envied and shunned by people in her community who would never have the chance to leave the village. So, when the rich and powerful Count Leonid chooses her as his wife, she doesn’t think twice. But between her and the Count’s grand estate lies the Gottyar Wood, the dark forest few people have ever escaped. The journey to her new life lives up to her nightmares, and Valla emerges from the woods battered and broken, her once-perfect face torn to shreds. Valla is no longer the girl the Count wanted, and he is no longer the husband she had hoped for. Surviving the terror of the forest was only the beginning of a new life of horror, and what lies beyond the castle walls is more monstrous than anything she has ever faced in the dark.
I absolutely loved this novel. I have been reviewing fantasy and horror novels for over a year now, but I have never encountered a book that seamlessly combines both genres while preserving their best features. Roux’s world-building is complex and stunning in a way that sent a chill down my spine, but also made me want to read more. The folkloric elements of A Girl Walks Into the Forest almost reminded me of the Brothers Grimm, as they are mystically treacherous and horrifying, rejecting the typical fairy tales told to children. As terrifying as Roux describes the Gottyar Wood, she adds a level of curiosity that seems to pull both the reader and Valla in. I loved the choice of first-person point of view, as the reader needed to experience the internal nightmares Valla faced as she transformed into a strong female lead throughout the story. Our heroine was initially a traditional village girl, longing for marriage and a better life. As she was exposed to more dark secrets of the Gottyar Wood, however, she transitioned into a fiercely independent and powerful character. As her ties to the creatures of the wood grew stronger and her actions became more violent, I was on the edge of my seat waiting for her next move. Supported by frightening imagery and dark secrets, A Girl Walks Into the Forest will have you fearing the forest and what lies within.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank SparkPoint Studio and Quill Tree Books for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
June 26, 2025
Wow! THIS BOOK!
I have been reading a lot of books lately that just feel like copy/paste of other stories, so I've really been craving something different. THIS BOOK DELIVERED! I was constantly kept on my toes and the twists the book took really surprised me--which is something difficult to do with how many books I've read.
This book to me was the anti-fairy tale in the best way possible. It's about a girl who has sort of a "Disney princess" dream for her life--she's the most beautiful in her land (village) and she's going to go marry a prince (a count in this case) in a far off land and live a lavish life where servants take care of all of her needs. It's the swept-away-from-your-provincial-life fairy tale so many girls dream of. Except, in this story, nothing about her journey is beautiful or ideal. Every step and new discovery is horrible and rotten to the core. I won't reveal all the vile things that happen to her because it will spoil things, but just know that there are many awful surprises in her new mansion that were so morbid and shocking in the best way possible. I was clapping for the author for her creativity with each new thing she thought up that made a chill go down my spine (while also being sad/mad for the main character and her pain of course). To me, this is a story about shattered expectations/dreams in life and what comes after. After you endure one disappointment/abuse/deprivation after another, what is next? How do you rise out of that and who do you become?
As a side note: I only had one issue with the book and that was part of the ending 20%. I don't want to give spoilers, but I felt like more could have been done to integrate this new person earlier and make that transition a little more smooth. I rate this a 4.5 because of that, but I'm rounding up a 5 stars book because of how much I loved the writing, the original story and the setting that felt VERY real. Bravo author! I'll definitely read more of your books (this was a new author to me and I LOVE her writing style).
I have been reading a lot of books lately that just feel like copy/paste of other stories, so I've really been craving something different. THIS BOOK DELIVERED! I was constantly kept on my toes and the twists the book took really surprised me--which is something difficult to do with how many books I've read.
This book to me was the anti-fairy tale in the best way possible. It's about a girl who has sort of a "Disney princess" dream for her life--she's the most beautiful in her land (village) and she's going to go marry a prince (a count in this case) in a far off land and live a lavish life where servants take care of all of her needs. It's the swept-away-from-your-provincial-life fairy tale so many girls dream of. Except, in this story, nothing about her journey is beautiful or ideal. Every step and new discovery is horrible and rotten to the core. I won't reveal all the vile things that happen to her because it will spoil things, but just know that there are many awful surprises in her new mansion that were so morbid and shocking in the best way possible. I was clapping for the author for her creativity with each new thing she thought up that made a chill go down my spine (while also being sad/mad for the main character and her pain of course). To me, this is a story about shattered expectations/dreams in life and what comes after. After you endure one disappointment/abuse/deprivation after another, what is next? How do you rise out of that and who do you become?
As a side note: I only had one issue with the book and that was part of the ending 20%. I don't want to give spoilers, but I felt like more could have been done to integrate this new person earlier and make that transition a little more smooth. I rate this a 4.5 because of that, but I'm rounding up a 5 stars book because of how much I loved the writing, the original story and the setting that felt VERY real. Bravo author! I'll definitely read more of your books (this was a new author to me and I LOVE her writing style).
April 29, 2025
you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!!!
In a novel that blends the highest highs and darkest depth of the fairytales and folklore of old, we follow a beautiful young woman name Valla on her way to be wed. Things only get worse from here. A proposal from a wealthy man, pulling a girl from a small village into the realm of lesser nobility should be a wonderful occasion. Emphasis on should.
To reach the illusive Count Leonid who has asked for her hand, she must venture through a forest rife with monsters and cruelty to reach his castle. The stories of this wretched place are in fact reality, as Valla is injured and her face permanently scarred. Arriving in her new home, she should be welcomed into a wonderful new life, yet terrors worse than the forest await around every turn. As Valla is no longer deemed beautiful, she's in for a world of sorrows, shifting this dark fairytale into the realms of horror.
This novel aimed at the YA audience asks what happens if being beautiful is more a curse than a blessing? What happens when the only thing you've ever been able to count on is ripped away from you? Who are you without the feature others claim as your only redeeming quality? Are you brave enough to see the darkness within and make it your new strength?
For our protagonist Valla she's told her whole life that all she needs to do is be pretty and marry well, so what is she to do when that plan falls apart? This life forced upon her isn't one she ever wished for, yet she'll find the positive in her situation to keep her village fed. She's a lamb offered for the slaughter and must act swiftly to stay alive. To stay sane. But perhaps the forest is willing to give as much as it takes...
In a novel that blends the highest highs and darkest depth of the fairytales and folklore of old, we follow a beautiful young woman name Valla on her way to be wed. Things only get worse from here. A proposal from a wealthy man, pulling a girl from a small village into the realm of lesser nobility should be a wonderful occasion. Emphasis on should.
To reach the illusive Count Leonid who has asked for her hand, she must venture through a forest rife with monsters and cruelty to reach his castle. The stories of this wretched place are in fact reality, as Valla is injured and her face permanently scarred. Arriving in her new home, she should be welcomed into a wonderful new life, yet terrors worse than the forest await around every turn. As Valla is no longer deemed beautiful, she's in for a world of sorrows, shifting this dark fairytale into the realms of horror.
This novel aimed at the YA audience asks what happens if being beautiful is more a curse than a blessing? What happens when the only thing you've ever been able to count on is ripped away from you? Who are you without the feature others claim as your only redeeming quality? Are you brave enough to see the darkness within and make it your new strength?
For our protagonist Valla she's told her whole life that all she needs to do is be pretty and marry well, so what is she to do when that plan falls apart? This life forced upon her isn't one she ever wished for, yet she'll find the positive in her situation to keep her village fed. She's a lamb offered for the slaughter and must act swiftly to stay alive. To stay sane. But perhaps the forest is willing to give as much as it takes...
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