The Forest Queen

With her father’s illness, Sylvie’s brother has taken control over their family estate and has just received a considerable promotion to sheriff. He rules over the commoners with cruelty, taxing them into poverty and jailing them when they can’t pay. Sylvie has never felt powerful enough to stand against her brother, but she and her best friend, Bird, encounter Little Jane and save her life. Now Sylvie she knows it’s time to do something. The three take off to the woods where they set up a haven that is soon filled with a community of townsfolk who were all victims of Sylvie’s brother. As they band together, Sylvie takes a stand against her brother’s treachery and inspires a revolt as she becomes known as the Forest Queen.

Besty Cornwell delivers a fresh take with a female twist on the classic tale of Robin Hood. Several winks to the original tales of Robin Hood can be found throughout, from characters taking the place of well-known ones such as Friar Tuck and Little John to references about Sherwood Forest and Maid Marion. Everything classic about Robin Hood is woven into the story: a band of followers, stealing to give to the poor, adventure, and the wicked Sheriff taxing the people. This retelling stays true to the heart of Robin Hood by telling the story of a hero rising up to defend the people. Various social issues are explored throughout, including gender, rape, and abuse, while also weaving in themes of love, friendship, strength, and healing. The various female characters realistic, brave, and strong, pulling together and rising above this world controlled by the king and Sheriff John. The Forest Queen is the perfect read for fans of Robin Hood, strong heroes, and adventure.