The Amber Owl by Juliet Marillier - Book

Stasya lives in an isolated farming village on the edge of the mysterious Heartwood Forest with her unusual dog for company. Thought odd by the locals, she is tolerated for her rare gift with animals. Engaging with her fellow humans is difficult, with one exception: goatherd Lukas, who shares her love of storytelling.The peace of Heartwood is shattered when a group of soldiers descends, under orders from the Ruler of the Northlands. Their mission: to hack a path through the forest and find the fabled treasure said to lie deep within. Under the gruelling decree, Stasya's village falls into chaos. The task is clearly impossible. The forest is alive with bears and wolves and the old tales speak of evil spirits, monsters and uncanny beings. Nobody has ever gone deep into Heartwood Forest and returned safe and well.When Stasya raises her voice in protest she is removed from her beloved home and transported to court - a different world. Word of her special skills has reachedstasya lives in an isolated farming village on the edge of the mysterious heartwood forest with her unusual dog for company. thought odd by the loc...