The Woodcutter

Kate Danley
CreateSpace (2010)
ISBN 9781453876145
Reviewed by Marissa Libbit for Reader Views (12/10)


“The Woodcutter” by Kate Danley is the fictional story of a man known only as the Woodcutter to most.  He must protect the wood from evil.  He is given a special assignment to return a rogue hellhound to evil Odin.  He ends up leaving on a journey away from his beloved wife that entangles him in twists on well-known fairy tales.  He meets everyone from Snow White to Jack in the Beanstalk to Rapunzel.  Characters known as The Gentleman and Queen have their own evil plans that involve becoming supreme rulers over various kingdoms and destroying the Woodcutter.  Loved by nature and the fairies that are being depleted of their fairy dust by the Gentleman and the Queen, the Woodcutter finds himself in challenges like none he has ever seen before.

I loved “The Woodcutter.”  The characters are so interesting.  Because most people remember elements of classic fairy tales, the references Danley makes are relatable.  The twists are dark and not of the Disney flare, but they make the story very engrossing for adults.  The Woodcutter is the true “Prince Charming” type character while the Gentleman and Queen represent the classic antagonists. 

The only minimal critique I have is the lack of discussion about the hellhound in the middle of the book.  I kept wondering where he was and why he wasn’t around while the Woodcutter was solving other mysteries.  I assumed he would be a hindrance throughout.  However, this observation did not take away from the book in the least. 

The writing is fast-paced with much action.  I found myself flipping quickly through the pages.  The plot is well thought out and comes to a satisfying conclusion.  “The Woodcutter” is a must read for both the lover of fantasy and mystery.  It will engage the reader in a delightful journey down memory lane with recollections of fairy tales from days gone by while embracing a modern twist. 

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