The protagonist, a middle-aged man, returns to his childhood home for a funeral and is drawn to the farm at the end of the road where he encounters a pond that was once an ocean in his childhood memories. He recalls a series of strange and terrifying events that occurred when he was seven, involving the mystical Hempstock women who live on the farm and their battle against malevolent supernatural entities that threatened his existence. The book explores themes of memory, magic, and the darkness that lies beneath the surface of everyday life.

The book is a captivating fantasy novel that weaves a tale of a young woman from a quiet village, chosen by a mysterious and powerful wizard to live with him in his tower, away from her home. As she learns about her own latent magical abilities and the malevolent force of the corrupted Wood that threatens her world, she must navigate a complex relationship with her enigmatic mentor and ally herself with the kingdom's prince to save her people. Drawing on Eastern European folklore, the story is a rich tapestry of magic, politics, and the struggle between tradition and change, ultimately exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the courage to fight for one's home.

Set in the wintry wilderness of medieval Russia, the novel weaves a tale of a young girl named Vasya who is gifted with the ability to see and communicate with the spirits that protect her village. As the world around her succumbs to the fear and influence of a zealous priest, Vasya must embrace her unique abilities to safeguard her family and the mystical beings of the forest. Her journey is fraught with challenges as she confronts the encroaching forces of both human and supernatural threats, ultimately leading her to confront a dangerous entity. In doing so, she must navigate the tightrope between the Christian beliefs of her community and the older, pagan traditions that run deep in her blood.