First published 2020
Rosalind must escape her uncle's hostile court when persecution threatens her safety. She flees with her loyal cousin Celia into the Forest of Arden, seeking refuge among its trees and meadows. The forest brings unexpected encounters with travelers, exiles, and shepherds who have made this woodland their home. Among them walks Jaques, a melancholy observer who questions country life and speaks memorable words about the world as a stage. As Rosalind navigates this pastoral world, she discovers that the forest holds more than sanctuary. Love awaits her among the branches, transforming her flight from danger into a journey toward happiness. The comedy weaves together multiple romantic threads as characters find their matches in this natural setting far from courtly intrigue. Rosalind's story moves from fear and exile to joy and connection, showing how escape can become discovery.
Genres: drama, romance, fantasy, comedy
Vibes: emotional, intimate, whimsical
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, fish-out-of-water
Setting: Forest of Arden
Period: Pastoral
159 pages · Paperback · Independently published