Overview

The Thorns Remain is set in a small Highland village in 1919, just after the First World War and the influenza outbreak. Moira Jean feels stuck as the people she loves begin to leave in search of work and opportunity. On the night of a final gathering in the woods, she joins a dance that calls something old and dangerous into their world. When the fae step into the circle, a bargain is struck, and Moira Jean must face the cost of that choice if she wants to save her friends.

Writing & Voice

We found J.J.A. Harwood’s writing gentle but tense, with a strong emotional pull. The language is clear and lyrical without being hard to follow. The Highlands feel close and lived in, while the presence of the fae slowly unsettles what should be familiar and safe.

Characters

Moira Jean is a thoughtful and quietly brave central character, shaped by loss and responsibility. Her fear of being left behind feels real and painful. The friends she tries to protect bring warmth and hope to the story. The fae lord is charming and threatening in equal measure, a reminder that magic never offers anything without taking something in return.

Themes

The novel explores grief, memory, and the fear of being forgotten. It looks at what happens when communities change and when people must choose between holding on and moving forward. We liked how the story treats magic as something tied to emotion and consequence rather than simple wonder.

What Worked

• Atmospheric setting the Highland village and surrounding woods feel vivid and uneasy.
• Emotional focus Moira Jean’s longing and courage ground the fantasy elements.
• Strong blend of history and folklore the post war setting adds weight to the fae bargain.

Minor Quibbles

• The story takes time to build, which may feel slow for readers wanting early action.
• Some folkloric elements will be familiar to readers well versed in fae stories.

Final Thoughts

The Thorns Remain is a moving and unsettling story about grief, magic, and the danger of wishing too hard for what cannot stay.

Rating: ★★★★☆ / 5