Woodbyrne: The Fallen Forest [Paperback]

James D'Arienzo Jr. (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 15, 2003

The Fallen Forest is James D'Arienzo's first of three books, retelling the adventures and lessons learned in the dark forest of Woodbyrne. In The Fallen Forest, 20 year old Prince Aaron defies his father's wishes and enters the forbidden forest on an adventure of his own. He soon learns why the forest is forbidden and that his actions and choices have serious consequences. While in the forest, Prince Aaron rescues a young lady named Quinn who is being held captive by the evil demon Isidore. The rescue and escape lead to a friendship with the peaceful native elves. As the tale unfolds, readers learn with Aaron and Quinn the value of friendship, honor, truth, and family.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 8 Up-This violent, melodramatic fantasy starts very slowly and plods to a predictable end. Written as the first of a planned trilogy, the story tells of the fate that befalls reckless Prince Aaron when he dares to enter Woodbyrne to find out why the forest is so forsaken. He and his cousin soon encounter the demon soldiers who patrol the area to protect Isidore, the demon who has overtaken Woodbyrne. They also meet Cathmore Stardust, head of the security patrol for the resident wood elves, who want to rid the forest of the demons, and Prince Aaron agrees to ask his father, King Dermot, to form an alliance to fight Isidore. Before he returns home, the prince decides to fight Isidore himself. His cousin loses his life in the process, but Prince Aaron manages to rescue Quinn, a young maiden being held captive in the demon's lair. The two return home, and with King Dermot's bidding, an army is raised to invade Woodbyrne and banish Isidore. The demons unleash unspeakable horrors on the villagers and the king's castle, all of which are described in gory detail, as is Prince Aaron's retaliation. The dialogue seems to be spoken by characters who are trying too hard to be fantasy archetypes, and the occasional anachronism (one person claims that Prince Aaron has "lost it") is jarring. Send readers to J. R. R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy instead.
Cheri Estes Dobbs, Detroit Country Day Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

"A classic fantasy format, the author does a good job of storytelling. We rated this book four hearts." -- Bob Spear, Publisher and Chief Reviewer Heartland Reviews

"D'Arienzo is a talented new voice. His story revolves around courage honor...all the elements of a good fantasy book." -- Sandra Von Pier, Book Reviewer for Red Bank Online

"I wonder how long it will take Disney to buy up the rights on this one" -- Charles Dietz, Atlantic Herald

"Woodbyrne checked out with a hold list since we got our copies. It's a wonderful read for all ages." -- Margie Cyr, Old Bridge Library, N.J

"Woodbyrne delivers action and romance in a classic good-versus-evil coming of age adventure." -- Kim Carter, VOYA

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 346 pages
• Publisher: Moo Press, Inc.; 1 edition (May 15, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0972485317
• ISBN-13: 978-0972485319
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,257,396 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Talented new voice - don't miss it, June 10, 2003

By 

Sandra L. von Pier (Fair Haven, NJ USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Woodbyrne: The Fallen Forest (Paperback)

Woodbyrne: the fallen forest" is author James D'Arienzo Jr.'s debut novel. If you like such works as Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" or Rowlings "Harry Potter" series I think you will enjoy this new fantasy novel. In book one of the trilogy we meet Prince Aaron, the only son of King Dermot and Queen Audrey of Gower. Prince Aaron lives a sheltered life, for his protection. Prince Aaron and Byram, his cousin and best friend, set off on an adventure that will change their lives and the lives of those around them. The adventure he seeks is in Woodbyrne forest. Many have entered and no one has returned.

Quinn, a young woman in another town, was abducted by a demon soldier and brought to his leader, Isidore, as a servant. She is spirited and does not succumb to Isidore's demands. Isidore is fed up with her insolence and is ready to end her life when Prince Aaron and Byram come along. Three entered the cave but only 2 will leave. They lived thanks to the help and friendship of the elves of the forest.

This story has great battle scenes and horrible demons. Its good vs. evil. Is it an adventure story? Or is it horror? Perhaps it is a bit of both with a little romance thrown in for good measure. I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into their world and I looked forward to going back after I had been away.

D'Arienzo is a talented new voice to watch out for. Courage, honor, friendship, truth, love and family. All the values a good fantasy book should have.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars I loved it 100%, September 2, 2004

By 

Magic Lover - See all my reviews

This review is from: Woodbyrne: The Fallen Forest (Paperback)

What is with the negative reviews? Honestly, this was a sweet book. It was very dark and sinister in some places but it was a lot of fun. The characters were great and so was the story. Yes, it was a bit melodramatic, but I think the author was going for that. Trust me, this is a good book. And the people who are giving it one star, never even finished reading it. So how can they say anything? Go figure!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Terrific, May 3, 2004

By A Customer

This review is from: Woodbyrne: The Fallen Forest (Paperback)

I have to say that I completely enjoyed Mr. D'Arienzo's world. The characters and their interaction were a lot of fun and quite entertaining. Yes, it seems the editors made a few goofs here and there, but none of it took away from the story. Damek was my favorite character. He's evil, but very cool. I don't want to give away too much of the story, but be prepared for some horror with your fantasy. It's a good mix in my opinion and something I enjoyed. I look forward to more of Mr. D'Arienzo's work.