A lush and lyrical folklore inspired fantasy adventure from a startling new talent, with a joyous magic reminiscent of Neil Gaiman and Studio Ghibli.
There are more deities and daemons in the world than stars in the sky. But only Heartseers like Anise Star can see them - because only they still believe... Anise's job is to help humans and daemons live happily together. But when the villainous Mr Babbitt tries to steal her home in the White Woods and drive the daemons out, she is forced to travel to the capital to ask the High King for help. First, though, she'll have to convince him that daemons still exist.
Accompanied by loyal daemon-dog Wolf, Anise sets out on a spellbinding and treacherous journey, meeting magical musician Robin and fox god Whin, and facing the cunning Magpie Queen and a deadly poisonous ink monster. In the midst of her battles she learns that it's not just the daemons of the White Wood she must save, but all the daemons of the world.
Heartseer is exciting, magical and wonderfully warm-hearted. Anise and Wolf transported me wholly from the very first page and I loved adventuring with them on their marvellous quest. - Sophie Kirtley, author of The Wild Way Home
Heartseer has a Spirited Away meets Northern Lights vibe and is bursting with things that fill the soul. Sparkling with legend and crackling with humour, it's a treasury of wonders. A truly special book, the kind that only comes along once in a blue moon. - Loris Owen, author of the Earth Quicksmith series
It was an absolutely spectacular book which left beautiful images painted in my mind. - Flora, aged 11
Author
About Rowan Foxwood, Kade Dorzla
Rowan Foxwood is a Lecturer of Creative Writing, and holds a Masters in Writing for Children. Born into a family of globe-trotters, her world-wide travels as a child inspired a deep love of mythology, fairy tales and folklore that has saturated her writing. Settled now in the south of England, Rowan continues to indulge her wanderlust whenever possible, seeking out new myths and legends wherever she goes. She can be easily ensnared with the promise of books, cats and a nice cup of tea. Heart-Seer: The Tale of Anise Star is her first book for children.
