A young apprentice fights to save an ancient grove of magical trees in this page-turning fantasy adventure, perfect for middle grade fans of Kelly Barnhill and Jessica Townsend.

“A solid fantasy for nature lovers seeking gentle tales.”—Kirkus Reviews

Nick Sixsmith has spent her whole life on the road. The daughter of a traveling arborist, she moves from town to town with her mother, caring for the ironwood groves that people rely upon for survival. When a dangerous blight threatens these magical trees, the Sixsmiths must journey to the city of Mistwood for answers.

Nick can’t wait to explore everything Mistwood has to offer: the bustling markets, the neighborhoods nestled behind a roaring waterfall, and the vast ancestral grove of ironwood trees. But dark secrets simmer beneath the surface as people start to disappear and tensions in the city reach a boiling point.

As the mystery grows, Nick and her new friends must follow the trail where it leads them—underground, to a strange and enchanting place called Underhill. Only there, among the roots of the ancestral grove, will Nick find a way to save the ironwood trees and the city she’s come to love.

Discover ancient ironwood groves, enchanted trees, and a mysterious underground realm alongside 11-year-old Nick as she follows clues and searches for answers
Explores themes of friendship, courage, community, and how to respect and care for nature
An immersive adventure for readers who enjoy magical mysteries, wondrous worlds, and courageous young heroes

Journey into the incredible world of Mistwood and discover the magic of protecting the people we love and the amazing world around us.

Kali Wallace