By Ms Eng Yuwen (GP Department)
Rating: 4/5
I came for the plot but stayed for the vibes.
Before you begin reading Where the Dark Stands Still, here’s a pro tip: flip to the back of the book for the pronunciation guide of Polish names and locations. Then, learn the correct pronunciation of said names and locations. Why? Because it helps you to be completely immersed in the author’s world-building, which is so beautifully done in this book. And anyway, isn’t that the reason we read fantasy? We don’t want to be reading Slavic folklore like the characters Liska (LISS-ka) and Leszy (LEH-shee) are people we meet in the kopitiam downstairs. (Aunty Lisa and Uncle Leslie are great people, but those are stories for another book. And yes, that’s basically how I pronounced the name in my head the whole time before discovering the glossary. You’re welcome.)
Against the backdrop of a new monotheistic society against gods and magic, the protagonist, Liska, is raised to believe that magic is inherently evil. She lives in a small village where magic users are considered monstrous, so she tries desperately to hide and suppress her magical abilities. To rid herself of her powers, Liska decides to venture into a dangerous, mystical forest in search of the legendary flower that will grant her one wish. The catch? The forest is known for its supernatural inhabitants, including the Leszy, a demon-like creature who serves as the forest’s warden.
When Liska is captured by the Leszy, she strikes a bargain with him: she will serve him for one year in his crumbling manor in exchange for the fern flower. Dark secrets of the manor and those who live in it, as well as looming threats in the magic forest force Liska to come face to face with the magic she was desperately trying to escape from.
However, it wasn’t the plot that kept me going. Honestly, the plot was expected (much like a fairytale) and the pacing was uneven. The beginning was too slow, the middle seemed like it was picking up but the ending was rushed.
So why did I keep reading?
The vibes. This book is like a cup of hot chocolate you drink during winter, by the fireplace in your little cottage. (Think The Hobbit, not Hansel and Gretel.) A temperamental sentient house? Yes! Magical woods? Of course! Spirits? More, please! You get the right amount of whimsy that feels like a snug, warm hug. (And not Halloween Horror Nights.)
Then there’s the character development.
I genuinely liked Liska. She’s strong but kind, determined yet caring. It’s heartening to witness her coming into her own identity, finding peace with her magic and realising her world is bigger than just her village. There was some romance between her and Leszy, the demon warden who takes on the form of a pretty, young man (insert eye roll), but it really isn’t even worth mentioning and is secondary to the plot. Though, I will admit that their dry humour and banter kept me going when the pace was slow.
This debut novel by A. B. Poranek hits all the right fantasy notes. It’s Howl’s Moving Castle meets Beauty and the Beast, with a side of Spirited Away.
So, if you’re a fan of those, you’ll certainly enjoy this Polish Miyazaki (HAHA) tale.