D.K. Holmberg’s “Keeper of the Forest” is the first book in a trilogy that introduces Eris Taeresin, a young girl given the task by the Mistress of Flowers to find her unique flower, one that matches her personality. Only then can she study with the Mistress of Flowers. Unfortunately, the Mistress keeps rejecting Eris’s choices, making Eris feel like an outsider in her family. Her close friendship with one of the gardeners also raises some eyebrows. With the looming threat of mages targeting the kingdom, Eris finds herself in unexpected and challenging situations.
I really enjoyed the flower imagery and the unique magic described throughout the story. The detailed descriptions of the garden and its flowers enriched the plot. The gardeners, who are essential in protecting the land from evil magic, are mostly gone due to power-hungry mages. Eris’s accidental involvement in these larger plots sets the stage for her adventure. However, the book moves at a relatively slow pace, leaving me waiting for significant events to unfold. There are action-packed moments, like when Eris finally discovers her flower and her sister’s wedding, but the main action, including a magical showdown and revelations about Eris’s destiny, happens towards the end. If you prefer fast-paced stories, this book may not be for you.
Eris’s character is appealing because she is somewhat of an outsider compared to her seemingly perfect peers. Her parents worry about her future as she lags in appearance and in the Mistress’s classes. Eris spends much of her time in the gardens talking with Terran, a castle gardener, to her family’s dismay. Despite feeling the weight of her family’s expectations, she remains committed to finding her flower and protecting her homeland. Eris’s kindness and determination make her a relatable heroine for many young women.
There is also an element of romance between Eris and Terran. They share a close friendship with some implied attraction. While Eris is inexperienced in romance and aware of the social gap between them, their interactions are heartwarming and make you curious about their future.
Overall, this book is an enjoyable read, especially for those who love fantasy and flowers. However, I don’t think it would translate well into a movie or TV show because the plot lacks the needed twists and actions, with much of the story focusing on Eris exploring the garden.
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