Disclaimer: This book is a participant in the Indie Ink Awards 2023 and I read it as a judge. My personal rating does not reflect its score for the contest.

“First, I would like to tell you a story,” Tian said. Each member of the Fey Court made a noise in response— a sigh, a groan, a murmur, and a gleeful squeak. Willow liked stories.

Let me start by saying this is one of my favorite reads of the year. The ominous opening sets the tone for this epic fantasy tale of a not-quite-human who comes from a tree.

The Dryad’s Crown has a classic fantasy feel but without the problematic stuff that mars the enjoyment of older works. There’s action, romance, death, legends, magic, plot-twists, and a bit of banter.

If you love flawed characters dealing with trauma, extensive worldbuilding, top-notch queer representation, a badass female protagonist, and beautiful prose, you should give this book a try.

I can not recommend this novel enough. I got easily immersed in this wonderful world with interesting dragon lore, a vast gods’ pantheon, a fey court, and queernormative societies. As soon as I finished it I wanted to go back for more. If you have the chance, get the audiobook.