Greenteeth

Jenny Greenteeth, a millennia-old monster, serves as the offbeat narrator of this sinister, Arthuriana-infused fantasy debut from O’Neill. After Parson Asa Braddock attempts to drown human witch Temperance Crump in the lake where Jenny lives near the small English village of Chipping Appleby, Jenny and Temperance vow to fight back against his cruel ways. Then they learn that Braddock is actually possessed by a malevolent magical force known as the Erl King. On the advice of salesman goblin Brackus Marsh, Temperance seeks out Gwyn ap Nudd, king of the fae, who sends Jenny, Temperance, and Brackus on a three-part quest to banish the Erl King. The trio’s sweet, unlikely friendship is forged and tested during months of travel and danger. Readers led by the marketing blurb to expect a cozy vibe may be surprised by the frequently sad and violent plot, but Jenny’s unique perspective and the bond among the adventurers add some much needed levity. This will be a hit with fans of classic quest fantasies. Agent: Sam Edenborough, Greyhound Literary. (Feb.)