Heartseer: The Tale of Anise Star by Rowan Foxwood

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.

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A TV show about an alien girl who lives in the sea and a novel about a young girl who can see spirits and deities might seem to be worlds apart. And in many ways, they are. But Anise and Neri share one thing; despite all their other gifts, they solve many problems through their empathy and understanding of others. It's a powerful message for young readers.

Anise is a young girl with a rare gift - she can see spirits and deities. These beings are formed of, and rely on, belief; but in a world where science is booming, that belief is fading. Anise finds herself on a dangerous quest to save the forest near her home, a haven for spirits big and small.

Right from the start we are drawn into a rich, imaginative world where danger and discovery await around every corner. Anise, and the group of friends she slowly assembles, are on a journey filled with excitement, from tense encounters with powerful spirits to clever problem-solving. This is a book that’s hard to put down, with each chapter bringing a new twist or challenge. Clues to the story's main mystery are scattered throughout, but easy to overlook, making it feel like a real victory if the reader figures it out before Anise does.

The author skillfully introduces readers to the concept of spirits and deities, explaining their existence and the source of their power in a way that’s both easy to follow and makes the reader want to keep going. (Luckily, another volume is planned, set around a side character from this one!) The mythology feels both familiar and fresh, drawing on age-old beliefs - the idea that spirits need belief to survive is not new - while creating something entirely new and vibrant. There are no info dumps; we're taught about the spirits and the world in a way that feels perfectly natural and well timed.

Anise's ability to see spirits is the fulcrum the story turns on, but what makes her truly special is her capacity for empathy and understanding. Rather than relying solely on her supernatural sight, she uses her emotional intelligence to navigate conflicts and connect with others, both human and spirit. This theme of empathy, coupled with the environmental message about the importance of protecting our natural world, gives the story depth and resonance.

This book is a perfect read for middle-grade readers who love adventure and mythology. Its blend of exciting plot, well-crafted world, and a strong, relatable heroine makes it a standout. Whether you’re a fan of stories about mythical creatures or just enjoy a good, character-driven tale, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.