Book Review: A Hauntingly Beautiful Fantasy Standalone
Fantasy | YA | Folklore | Beauty and the Beast inspired
If you love lush, atmospheric fantasy with a touch of darkness, Where the Dark Stands Still by A. B. Poranek is a must-read. This standalone novel weaves Polish folklore, gothic romance, and a sentient manor into a tale that feels both fresh and timeless.
The story follows Liska Radost, a girl with dangerous powers she desperately wants to get rid of. After a tragic accident, she enters a haunted forest in search of a mythical flower that can grant one wish.
There, she meets the mysterious Leszy, the forest’s magical guardian, who offers her a deal: serve him for one year, and he’ll grant her wish. As Liska settles into his eerie manor, she begins to uncover secrets about the forest, the house, and herself.
With beautiful world-building, a slow-burning romance, and eerie fairy tale vibes, this debut novel is perfect for fans of Beauty and the Beast and Howl’s Moving Castle. It’s a haunting story about magic, identity, and learning to accept who you really are.
Here are 5 reasons why you should pick it up:
- A complete fantasy standalone (No trilogy commitment!) In a world of never-ending series, this book delivers a satisfying, self-contained story. Perfect for readers who want a rich fantasy experience without waiting for sequels.
- Steeped in Polish mythology, the story introduces creatures like leszy (forest spirits) and demons, offering a refreshing break from typical Western European fantasy tropes.
- A sentient manor with secrets. ‘The House Under the Rowan Tree’ is almost a character itself, whispering, shifting, and hiding dark mysteries. Fans of Howl’s Moving Castle and House of Hollow will adore this eerie, enchanted setting.
- A ‘Beauty and the Beast’ inspired romance. With a cursed woodsman, a dangerous bargain, and slow-burn tension, the romance has all the gothic allure of a dark fairy tale.
- Gorgeous, lyrical prose. Poranek’s writing is hauntingly beautiful, blending poetic descriptions with sharp emotional depth. Every page feels like stepping into a fairy tale, one with teeth.
Final verdict! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A spellbinding blend of folklore, romance, and gothic fantasy. Perfect for fans of Uprooted, For the Wolf, and The Bear and the Nightingale.
Have you read Where the Dark Stands Still? What enchanted you the most? Let me know in the comments!
Interested in reading Where the Dark Stands Still? Here is a commissionable link to purchase through Amazon: https://amzn.to/43Eoyoh