Once There Was

In this thrilling novel, an Iranian American girl named Marjan discovers her late father's hidden identity as a veterinarian to mythical creatures. Despite the dangers involved, she is compelled to take up his mantle. Marjan's childhood was filled with enchanting stories about extraordinary beasts, but now she must face the reality of her father's secret life. With her father gone, Marjan tries to maintain her schoolwork, friendships, and his struggling veterinary practice. However, everything changes when a visitor reveals that the creatures from her father's tales were real, and she must continue his work.

Stepping into a hidden world where mythical creatures are bought, sold, and trapped, Marjan finds unexpected allies including a charming British boy who grew up with a griffon and a runaway witch searching for magic and a place to call home. As she treats these creatures, Marjan delves deeper into her father's world and draws closer to uncovering the truth behind his death. Along the way, she uncovers a shocking revelation that reignites her sense of wonder and places both humans and mythical creatures in grave danger. Marjan must navigate her double life while concealing her newfound reality from old friends and classmates, all while searching for her father's killer.