Enchantingly Odd: A Review of The Folklore of Forever (Moonville, #2) by Sarah Hogle
As soon as I saw the title The Folklore of Forever, I was compelled to dive in. Having enjoyed whimsical narratives with a sprinkle of magic, Sarah Hogle’s enchanting take on Moonville drew me in like moth to a flame. This second installment in the Moonville series—where glittering tales of witches intertwine with the complexities of sisterhood—promised both charm and curiosity, which only heightened my anticipation. As I flipped through its pages, I felt as if I was stepping into a world that was both familiar and delightfully unfamiliar.
This story introduces us to Zelda Tempest, a paranormal skeptic hailing from a family fraught with witchy lore. Unlike her sisters, who seem to embrace their supposed magical prowess, Zelda resolutely lives in the land of logic—until she returns to Moonville, hoping to overcome a crippling writer’s block. Enter Morgan Angelopoulos, a ghost-hunting podcaster with a penchant for the fantastical. Their budding chemistry sparks an intriguing exploration of belief and disbelief, as Zelda’s skeptical stance begins to waver, particularly when she uncovers her own unexpected connection to the ethereal creatures lurking in the Moonville woods.
At times, the narrative felt all over the place, taking me on an eccentric journey that combined whimsy with chaos. It reminded me of the first time we meet Luna Lovegood—charming yet perplexing. Would I describe it as a seamless love story? Not quite. But would I call it effortlessly engaging? Absolutely! Hogle’s writing embodies a captivating quirkiness that captures the essence of Moonville. The esoteric musings and spontaneous twists kept me intrigued, even amidst moments of confusion.
The character chemistry between Zelda and Morgan was a highlight for me. Their playful banter and deepening connection were refreshing, and it was satisfying to witness even a staunch skeptic like Zelda navigate her shifting beliefs. The light romance amidst the more chaotic elements of the plot felt genuine, offering some grounding amidst the whimsical madness.
Though I typically gravitate towards darker narratives laden with dread, I found myself enjoying this quirky romp. It reminded me of a wild adventure through enchanted woods, where surprises lurk around every corner. The wilder moments towards the end, particularly, had me laughing out loud—proof that Hogle knows how to deliver unpredictability seamlessly.
While The Folklore of Forever might be outside my usual genre comfort zone, I can appreciate its charm, and I’m definitely intrigued enough to delve into the other stories in the series. Hogle paints a vivid picture of Moonville, and I want to see how her other sisters unravel their own tales.
For readers who revel in lightheart whimsy with a sprinkle of magical realism—the Cottagecore aesthetic in storytelling—this book would be a delightful companion. In a world that sometimes feels overwhelmingly serious, Hogle offers a refreshing escapade into the magical, mysterious, and oh-so-quirky realms of Moonville. If you are curious about the enchanting connections we hold with our past, family, and our own beliefs, this could be a remarkable adventure to embark on.
Thank you to G.P. Putnam’s Sons for providing me with a copy to review. My journey through The Folklore of Forever was perplexing yet enjoyable, and I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to explore it.
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