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Maven & Reeve Mystery #1
The Fire Star
Maven and Reeve have only three days to solve the mystery of the theft of the precious Fire Star gem. They’ve only just met each other — and not under the most auspicious circumstances. Will they be able to work together? And how will the mysterious Beech Circle come into play?
Maven and Reeve Intrigue! Danger! Medieval fantasy adventures featuring two stereotype-defying and unlikely Maven, the witty, clever, resourceful lady’s maid, and Reeve, the loyal, observant, thoughtful knight’s squire. The pair must learn to work together to solve these mysteries... their lives may depend on it!
Maven and Reeve Intrigue! Danger! Medieval fantasy adventures featuring two stereotype-defying and unlikely Maven, the witty, clever, resourceful lady’s maid, and Reeve, the loyal, observant, thoughtful knight’s squire. The pair must learn to work together to solve these mysteries... their lives may depend on it!
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
15 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 1, 2020
Harry Potter is surely feeling a little tired by now. He and his mates have been casting spells for longer than most middle schoolers have been alive. It’s time for a new kid book obsession and I reckon AL Tait’s new Maven & Reeve series might just be it. The first book in the series is The Fire Star, out today.
The reason I’m making such a bold claim for Maven & Reeve, is that AL Tait is equally as good at penning place, character and action as JK Rowling. She proved it with her first two series for middle schoolers – The Mapmaker Chronicles (a four book series) and the Ateban Cipher (two books). Both have complex, inviting characters who young readers want to head off with on intriguing, enviable adventures in the vaguely-historical, utterly marvellous settings that Tait has imagined.
Her latest book, The Fire Star introduces us to Maven, a servant girl forced to hide her intelligence under the cloak of a lifetime of servitude. Part of the story is told from Maven’s first-person account and she’s a lively, witty narrator.
Maven is thrown together with Reeve, a squeamish squire who dreams of being a knight but worries he won’t be able to hide his inconvenient fear of blood.
The swapping of narrator perspective is a stylistic tool that readers of adult detective or family genres will be familiar with, but it may be a new and somewhat challenging concept for middle school readers. The kids will soon settle in, however, as the story charges along, pulling them deeper and deeper into the fascinating vaguely-Middle Ages tale, with many a twist in the telling.
Maven and Reeve have only three days to solve the mystery of the theft of the Fire Star, a mysterious gem that just might hold the key to freedom — both their own and other key characters’. This mismatched pair add an ‘odd couple’ humour to the seriousness of this quest. They get each other in and out of scrapes, but work together to tie the pieces of this mystery together, something the reader is also encouraged to work out with clever clues left by Tait along the way.
The reason I’m making such a bold claim for Maven & Reeve, is that AL Tait is equally as good at penning place, character and action as JK Rowling. She proved it with her first two series for middle schoolers – The Mapmaker Chronicles (a four book series) and the Ateban Cipher (two books). Both have complex, inviting characters who young readers want to head off with on intriguing, enviable adventures in the vaguely-historical, utterly marvellous settings that Tait has imagined.
Her latest book, The Fire Star introduces us to Maven, a servant girl forced to hide her intelligence under the cloak of a lifetime of servitude. Part of the story is told from Maven’s first-person account and she’s a lively, witty narrator.
Maven is thrown together with Reeve, a squeamish squire who dreams of being a knight but worries he won’t be able to hide his inconvenient fear of blood.
The swapping of narrator perspective is a stylistic tool that readers of adult detective or family genres will be familiar with, but it may be a new and somewhat challenging concept for middle school readers. The kids will soon settle in, however, as the story charges along, pulling them deeper and deeper into the fascinating vaguely-Middle Ages tale, with many a twist in the telling.
Maven and Reeve have only three days to solve the mystery of the theft of the Fire Star, a mysterious gem that just might hold the key to freedom — both their own and other key characters’. This mismatched pair add an ‘odd couple’ humour to the seriousness of this quest. They get each other in and out of scrapes, but work together to tie the pieces of this mystery together, something the reader is also encouraged to work out with clever clues left by Tait along the way.
August 22, 2022
The Fire Star is the story of a lady's maid, a knight's squire, a stolen gem, and the hunt to capture a thief and locate a murderer. It's a fast-paced mystery, spanning three days, with lots of action, humor, and a duo that you can't help but root for. It's been described on Goodreads as a cross between 39 Clues and The Ranger's Apprentice, which fits it beautifully, and it also kind of reminds me of The False Prince by Jennifer Nielsen. Intricate plotting with a little palace intrigue.
Lady Cassandra is set to marry Sir Garrick, knight to Airl Buckthorn, or the master of Rennart Castle. After having just arrived at the castle, The Fire Star is stolen from Lady Cassandra's bed chamber. Being the newest squire at the castle, Reeve is immediately blamed for the theft, and is given three days to find the stone. If he can't reveal the thief, he'll be sent home where he will most likely be exiled and his dream of becoming a knight will end. Maven feels sorry for this boy and sets out to help him on his quest. Two heads are better than one after all and they'll need all the help they can get when they find one of their friends has been murdered and the gem becomes even more elusive to find.
I really enjoyed the dual POV of Maven and Reeve. Maven possesses many skills, she's clever, she can hold her own in a fight. Despite the women of Cartreff not being allowed to read or write, she grew up under her father's guidance learning military strategies, how to defend herself and is highly educated. She's also learned how to blend in, preferring to take to the shadows and observe, rather than to stand out. She'd probably make a very good assassin. At first, I was kind of sad that her father sold her off to Cassandra as her lady's maid to cover his gambling debts, but Cassandra and her do have such a strong bond of friendship and have vowed to be there for one another. They both belong to the Beech Circle, a secret society of women who support each other to become independent and free of the rules of Cartreff, very similar to a women's resistance. Reeve is also a very fun character, and has a secret, which he hasn't shared with Maven yet. He's kind, observant and so likeable. I love the way that he looks out for Maven and enjoyed watching their friendship grow. A huge thank you to Kane Miller Publishing for sending me review copies of both The Fire Star and The Wolf's Howl, which I'm really looking forward to reading next.
Lady Cassandra is set to marry Sir Garrick, knight to Airl Buckthorn, or the master of Rennart Castle. After having just arrived at the castle, The Fire Star is stolen from Lady Cassandra's bed chamber. Being the newest squire at the castle, Reeve is immediately blamed for the theft, and is given three days to find the stone. If he can't reveal the thief, he'll be sent home where he will most likely be exiled and his dream of becoming a knight will end. Maven feels sorry for this boy and sets out to help him on his quest. Two heads are better than one after all and they'll need all the help they can get when they find one of their friends has been murdered and the gem becomes even more elusive to find.
I really enjoyed the dual POV of Maven and Reeve. Maven possesses many skills, she's clever, she can hold her own in a fight. Despite the women of Cartreff not being allowed to read or write, she grew up under her father's guidance learning military strategies, how to defend herself and is highly educated. She's also learned how to blend in, preferring to take to the shadows and observe, rather than to stand out. She'd probably make a very good assassin. At first, I was kind of sad that her father sold her off to Cassandra as her lady's maid to cover his gambling debts, but Cassandra and her do have such a strong bond of friendship and have vowed to be there for one another. They both belong to the Beech Circle, a secret society of women who support each other to become independent and free of the rules of Cartreff, very similar to a women's resistance. Reeve is also a very fun character, and has a secret, which he hasn't shared with Maven yet. He's kind, observant and so likeable. I love the way that he looks out for Maven and enjoyed watching their friendship grow. A huge thank you to Kane Miller Publishing for sending me review copies of both The Fire Star and The Wolf's Howl, which I'm really looking forward to reading next.
August 31, 2020
The Fire Star is the latest book from the author of The Mapmaker Chronicles, A. L. Tait. This middle grade fiction book is perfect for your younger readers that want a fast-paced adventure that will keep them inspired! The author wanted to make a detective mystery but she didn't enjoy writing it in the modern times so it became a detective storyline with two smart, capable young characters in the Middle Ages.
This book had a great deal of inspiration for females and the author wanted to have strong, powerful female character. With that goal the author created Maven and she became a much bigger part of the book and had her own defined arc too.
Read the rest of my review here!
This book had a great deal of inspiration for females and the author wanted to have strong, powerful female character. With that goal the author created Maven and she became a much bigger part of the book and had her own defined arc too.
Read the rest of my review here!
September 2, 2020
An expertly written upper middle grade book, The Fire Star has plenty of mystery and intrigue for all ages. From the clever and able duo of Maven and Reeve, to the villains who you can’t help but smile when they get what’s coming to them, this book is an enjoyable read no matter your age and a MasterClass in how to write for any age.
January 14, 2025
If you are looking for a book fit for 4-6th grade, this is for you.
This was a fun murder mystery. Lots of suspense and some twists and turns. Comedic relief. A some female main character. And character growth as each overcomes their hurdles in life.
I will have to pick up the sequel and see where Maven & Reeves head next!
This was a fun murder mystery. Lots of suspense and some twists and turns. Comedic relief. A some female main character. And character growth as each overcomes their hurdles in life.
I will have to pick up the sequel and see where Maven & Reeves head next!
September 27, 2022
a really fun adventure, fantasy because of being in an imagined time/place, but no overt magic. I enjoyed it lots.
Read
November 23, 2020This was a fun read! I loved the setting and the premise and the characters. Because I'm me, I totally got convinced to read this based on the first sentence:
"Of all the things I'd imagined might stop us from reaching Rennart Castle by nightfall, goats had not even made the top fifty."
(Got to love a book with goats!)
"Of all the things I'd imagined might stop us from reaching Rennart Castle by nightfall, goats had not even made the top fifty."
(Got to love a book with goats!)
Read
May 7, 2021The following reviews are shared by Penguin Random House Australia, publisher of The Fire Star: A Maven and Reeve Mystery.
'[T]his book didn’t leave my hands. I’m looking forward to selling The Fire Star – this middle-grade novel is great for existing fans of A.L. Tait, as well as lovers of historical fiction and adventure aged nine and up.' – Dani Solomon, Books+Publishing
'This middle grade fiction book is perfect for your younger readers that want a fast-paced adventure that will keep them inspired! . . . I think Maven was my favourite character because of her wit however, I really enjoyed the interaction and friendship of Maven and Reeve together. They were such a good team and the ups and downs of their disastrous predicaments were always a good laugh! . . . I’ll definitely be recommending this book to younger readers and I think it would be a great family read-along.' – Kirra, thebookishkirra.wordpress.com
'The developing friendship between the two main characters is a beautiful thing to read. It unfolds with some comforting lessons for young readers . . . Note: this isn’t the book you want them to start reading right before bedtime! It will be torches under the quilt at midnight, I guarantee . . . So, big themes, memorable characters, twisty plot and a vivid sense of place all bring to mind a new kind of Potter . . . Gift a copy of The Fire Star to the young readers in your life (or even the reluctant readers – this is the kind of book that will soon reel them in). Or buy a copy for yourself. Promise that like me, you won’t be able to put it down either. I’m itching for the next book.' – Bron Maxabella, MumLyfe
'This intriguing mystery draws the reader in and captures their imagination as they explore this wild new world that is both known from other fantasy books, yet a completely new world that works exquisitely well for this series . . . I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am very eager for the next one in the series, which I am sure will deliver with just as much oomph and gusto.' – The Book Muse
'For those young people who love a good mystery, this one will not disappoint . . . This book doesn’t talk down to the reader, but leads them through a time in history and a language that may not be a familiar, but will nonetheless draw them in. All threads are pulled together at the end to give a satisfying conclusion. A great read.' – Sue Mauger, Glam Adelaide
'[T]his book didn’t leave my hands. I’m looking forward to selling The Fire Star – this middle-grade novel is great for existing fans of A.L. Tait, as well as lovers of historical fiction and adventure aged nine and up.' – Dani Solomon, Books+Publishing
'This middle grade fiction book is perfect for your younger readers that want a fast-paced adventure that will keep them inspired! . . . I think Maven was my favourite character because of her wit however, I really enjoyed the interaction and friendship of Maven and Reeve together. They were such a good team and the ups and downs of their disastrous predicaments were always a good laugh! . . . I’ll definitely be recommending this book to younger readers and I think it would be a great family read-along.' – Kirra, thebookishkirra.wordpress.com
'The developing friendship between the two main characters is a beautiful thing to read. It unfolds with some comforting lessons for young readers . . . Note: this isn’t the book you want them to start reading right before bedtime! It will be torches under the quilt at midnight, I guarantee . . . So, big themes, memorable characters, twisty plot and a vivid sense of place all bring to mind a new kind of Potter . . . Gift a copy of The Fire Star to the young readers in your life (or even the reluctant readers – this is the kind of book that will soon reel them in). Or buy a copy for yourself. Promise that like me, you won’t be able to put it down either. I’m itching for the next book.' – Bron Maxabella, MumLyfe
'This intriguing mystery draws the reader in and captures their imagination as they explore this wild new world that is both known from other fantasy books, yet a completely new world that works exquisitely well for this series . . . I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am very eager for the next one in the series, which I am sure will deliver with just as much oomph and gusto.' – The Book Muse
'For those young people who love a good mystery, this one will not disappoint . . . This book doesn’t talk down to the reader, but leads them through a time in history and a language that may not be a familiar, but will nonetheless draw them in. All threads are pulled together at the end to give a satisfying conclusion. A great read.' – Sue Mauger, Glam Adelaide
August 2, 2022
Maven, a lady’s maid, and Reeve, a knight’s squire, are thrown together by the theft of a priceless jewel. The unlikely duo has only three days to find the gem or both their futures will fall apart.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fire Star! As my frequent readers know, I am a HUGE fan of mysteries, and I especially love a well-plotted YA mystery. And when the YA mystery comes from one of my favorite authors—it’s a major win-win for me!
So let’s talk about A.L. Tait’s young adult novel, The Fire Star. Here’s a quick break-down:
YA with two main characters, ages 15 and 16
Told in dual POV (which I loved!)
Medieval fantasy world setting
Mystery that includes a stolen gem and a murder
Intricate plot with intrigue and danger
Themes relevant to today including the status of women
It’s wonderful to escape into a far-away world and mingle with characters that are smart, articulate, compassionate, and relatable. A. L. Tait draws colorful and complex characters and then sets them in a richly drawn world—a kingdom in turmoil where the fight for what is right can take an individual to the brink of life or death.
Maven is clever and capable with quick wit and strong drive. Unfortunately, in her world, a woman of intellect is simply not allowed. Women aren’t supposed to read, write, or think for themselves. Taught by her father, whose reputation and wealth has now depleted due to drink, Maven has lost her status and is now a lady’s maid and companion to Cassandra who is engaged to Sir Garrick, Knight Protector of Rennart Castle.
Reeve is a new squire to Sir Garrick and desperate to prove himself worthy. Reeve is smart and capable, especially at reading people. But he simply wants to do his job and stay out of trouble as he fears failure will send him across the sea to a life of misery, or worse—death.
When Maven and Reeve meet, possibly one of my favorite meet-ups that I’ve read (it involves some goats), neither anticipate how important they will be to each other in the near future. It’s fun to watch their friendship develop across the pages as they learn to trust each other, working together to find the missing gem and discover who killed an innocent man. I found it refreshing to read a YA mystery that focused on friendship versus romance with the two main characters. The mystery was engaging, plotting tight, and the pacing perfect for the story.
I can’t write this review without mentioning the Beech Circle, a group of girls and women who are connected. They help each other and those who need help. They are educated, self-reliant, and they’d be eliminated if their existence was discovered by the men who desire to keep all women complacent and silent. Without the Beech Circle, Maven and Reeve may never be able to solve the mystery and save multiple lives.
The Fire Star is the first book in the Maven and Reeve mysteries and I most definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy strong female characters, friendships built on trust and respect, and intrigue amid a medieval setting. The second book is The Wolf’s Howl and I’ll be posting a review of that soon, so keep an eye out.
Many thanks to Kane Miller EDC Publishing and Allison Tait for sending me copies of The Fire Star and The Wolf’s Howl. This review reflects my own opinions and thoughts.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Fire Star! As my frequent readers know, I am a HUGE fan of mysteries, and I especially love a well-plotted YA mystery. And when the YA mystery comes from one of my favorite authors—it’s a major win-win for me!
So let’s talk about A.L. Tait’s young adult novel, The Fire Star. Here’s a quick break-down:
YA with two main characters, ages 15 and 16
Told in dual POV (which I loved!)
Medieval fantasy world setting
Mystery that includes a stolen gem and a murder
Intricate plot with intrigue and danger
Themes relevant to today including the status of women
It’s wonderful to escape into a far-away world and mingle with characters that are smart, articulate, compassionate, and relatable. A. L. Tait draws colorful and complex characters and then sets them in a richly drawn world—a kingdom in turmoil where the fight for what is right can take an individual to the brink of life or death.
Maven is clever and capable with quick wit and strong drive. Unfortunately, in her world, a woman of intellect is simply not allowed. Women aren’t supposed to read, write, or think for themselves. Taught by her father, whose reputation and wealth has now depleted due to drink, Maven has lost her status and is now a lady’s maid and companion to Cassandra who is engaged to Sir Garrick, Knight Protector of Rennart Castle.
Reeve is a new squire to Sir Garrick and desperate to prove himself worthy. Reeve is smart and capable, especially at reading people. But he simply wants to do his job and stay out of trouble as he fears failure will send him across the sea to a life of misery, or worse—death.
When Maven and Reeve meet, possibly one of my favorite meet-ups that I’ve read (it involves some goats), neither anticipate how important they will be to each other in the near future. It’s fun to watch their friendship develop across the pages as they learn to trust each other, working together to find the missing gem and discover who killed an innocent man. I found it refreshing to read a YA mystery that focused on friendship versus romance with the two main characters. The mystery was engaging, plotting tight, and the pacing perfect for the story.
I can’t write this review without mentioning the Beech Circle, a group of girls and women who are connected. They help each other and those who need help. They are educated, self-reliant, and they’d be eliminated if their existence was discovered by the men who desire to keep all women complacent and silent. Without the Beech Circle, Maven and Reeve may never be able to solve the mystery and save multiple lives.
The Fire Star is the first book in the Maven and Reeve mysteries and I most definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy strong female characters, friendships built on trust and respect, and intrigue amid a medieval setting. The second book is The Wolf’s Howl and I’ll be posting a review of that soon, so keep an eye out.
Many thanks to Kane Miller EDC Publishing and Allison Tait for sending me copies of The Fire Star and The Wolf’s Howl. This review reflects my own opinions and thoughts.
October 14, 2020
Loved falling into the world of Cartreff with its maids, squires, knights and ladies in waiting. The idea of the Beech Circle as a secret society to nurture and support women was genius and made me so grateful for my own 'Beech Circle' in real life.
As a teacher librarian, I am often asked for ideas for class read alouds or novel studies and 'The Fire Star' is certainly one I will be recommending for use in Years 5-7 (age range dependent on use - read aloud, extension, support, book club or in-depth novel study).
The dual narrative is perfect for academic study and Tait has also played with perspective and tense within this. The depth and complexity of relationships between characters would be interesting to delve into and there is a balance of male/female protagonists and mix of ages amongst the characters of Maven, Reeve, Lady Cassandra, Sir Garrick, Airl Buckthorn, Lady Anice, Kit, Myra, Polly, Derric, Cook, Lorimer and Sully. We teachers do love a good discussion about setting (!) and A.L. Tait is a master of world building. The Middle Ages setting of Carreff is vivid and easily imagined and recreated in the classroom setting - for starters I'd love a beech tree in my library, perhaps with a few castles in the background...
As a teacher librarian, I am often asked for ideas for class read alouds or novel studies and 'The Fire Star' is certainly one I will be recommending for use in Years 5-7 (age range dependent on use - read aloud, extension, support, book club or in-depth novel study).
The dual narrative is perfect for academic study and Tait has also played with perspective and tense within this. The depth and complexity of relationships between characters would be interesting to delve into and there is a balance of male/female protagonists and mix of ages amongst the characters of Maven, Reeve, Lady Cassandra, Sir Garrick, Airl Buckthorn, Lady Anice, Kit, Myra, Polly, Derric, Cook, Lorimer and Sully. We teachers do love a good discussion about setting (!) and A.L. Tait is a master of world building. The Middle Ages setting of Carreff is vivid and easily imagined and recreated in the classroom setting - for starters I'd love a beech tree in my library, perhaps with a few castles in the background...
September 20, 2020
A rollicking adventure set in medieval times, The Fire Star's two main characters, Maven and Reeve are both struggling to come to terms with their future - Reeve is desperate to become a knight while Maven wants independence. The disappearance of a precious jewel, the fire star, sets off a chain of events that threaten the pair in different ways. Ultimately they will work together to set things to rights, and in doing so discover villains at every turn. A terrific, pacey tale for young readers - I am intrigued to know more about Maven and her Beech Circle and just how Reeve will reconcile his knight training and inability to cope with the sight of blood.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2020
I straight-up loved The Fire Star. The characters are well-drawn, the world is believable, and the mystery was interesting and kept me engaged.
The two main characters, Maven and Reeve, are both strong and intelligent. Too often books like this rest on almost a coincidence to solve the mystery, but Maven and Reeve use their brains and their wits to reach the conclusion they need to find.
The supporting characters are great, and putting a mystery in a medieval setting really gave the story a fresh feel.
If you've got young readers, this is a great story for both you and them. Bedtime reading just got even better.
The two main characters, Maven and Reeve, are both strong and intelligent. Too often books like this rest on almost a coincidence to solve the mystery, but Maven and Reeve use their brains and their wits to reach the conclusion they need to find.
The supporting characters are great, and putting a mystery in a medieval setting really gave the story a fresh feel.
If you've got young readers, this is a great story for both you and them. Bedtime reading just got even better.
December 22, 2020
My first experience of Tait’s writing was The Book of Secrets and its sequel, The Book of Answers. I loved them both and was very pleased to get my hands on this copy of her newest book for review.
Maven and Reeve are maid and squire, teenagers who are committed to their Master and Mistress and drawn together to solve the mysterious disappearance of a magnificent jewel with a cursed history.
I’m always carrying on about not liking fantasy but I actually love a well-written middle school fantasy novel, especially when the characters are as nicely crafted and appealing as Maven and Reeve. This one is top quality and highly recommended for the 10-14 year old readers in your life.
Maven and Reeve are maid and squire, teenagers who are committed to their Master and Mistress and drawn together to solve the mysterious disappearance of a magnificent jewel with a cursed history.
I’m always carrying on about not liking fantasy but I actually love a well-written middle school fantasy novel, especially when the characters are as nicely crafted and appealing as Maven and Reeve. This one is top quality and highly recommended for the 10-14 year old readers in your life.
June 29, 2021
This was a thoroughly enjoyable read that leaves me keen to join Maven (& to a lesser extent Reeve) in further adventures. This novel largely sets up the world in which these characters exist - a medieval world of knights & lords, of class systems, knowing your place and not being in control of your own destiny. Of women struggling for rights and where education and intelligence is seen as witchcraft.
Within this world we meet Maven, a servant girl but where there is much more than meets the eye. We also have a mystery of a missing gemstone, which holds many fates in the balance.
This is an engaging book and a must for fans of the Ranger's Apprentice series.
Within this world we meet Maven, a servant girl but where there is much more than meets the eye. We also have a mystery of a missing gemstone, which holds many fates in the balance.
This is an engaging book and a must for fans of the Ranger's Apprentice series.
September 18, 2022
It took me a while to get into this story, but I am glad I persevered as it is a great tale... well written and full of nuance and intrigue.
Maven is the maid of the Lady Cassandra, but she has a secret.
Reeve is the trainee knight of Sir Garrick - and he is desperate to become a proper knight in order to escape his past.
When the Lady Cassandra and Sir Garrick are betrothed to be married, Maven and Reeve find themselves having to work together in a castle full of mysteries.
When the precious Fire Star necklace goes missing they find their whole futures could be up in arms - especially when they are tasked with finding the missing jewel... or risk losing everything.
Maven is the maid of the Lady Cassandra, but she has a secret.
Reeve is the trainee knight of Sir Garrick - and he is desperate to become a proper knight in order to escape his past.
When the Lady Cassandra and Sir Garrick are betrothed to be married, Maven and Reeve find themselves having to work together in a castle full of mysteries.
When the precious Fire Star necklace goes missing they find their whole futures could be up in arms - especially when they are tasked with finding the missing jewel... or risk losing everything.
October 18, 2022
This is the third series I’ve read by this author and I truly enjoy how she writes for the YA audience. She does male-female relationships where it shows it’s possible to be just friends and respect the strengths and weaknesses of another person without constantly making two compete. Always heroes that are both male and female in her stories so they are attractive to all audiences. This one is no different and I was pleased at the traditional themes that ruled in the end for one character with a side of “pushing the envelope” for others. She just strikes a great balance that can also dip this age levels toes into the enjoyment that is historical fiction!
May 27, 2023
Another excellent young adult fiction story from A. L. Tait! If you like a clean mystery set in the time of knights and castles with a strong female lead (but no "all men are trash" nonsense), this is for you.
There are references to drinking, gambling, unwanted sexual advances, and some violence, but nothing graphic. Written for teenagers, but I can't wait to read the next book in the series even as an adult!
Note: I appreciate that there is some solid closure to this story... It's not one of those cliffhanger half-stories that have become so common, but it's good enough to make me read the next one anyway!
There are references to drinking, gambling, unwanted sexual advances, and some violence, but nothing graphic. Written for teenagers, but I can't wait to read the next book in the series even as an adult!
Note: I appreciate that there is some solid closure to this story... It's not one of those cliffhanger half-stories that have become so common, but it's good enough to make me read the next one anyway!
March 23, 2021
Firstly, I love a good mystery. Secondly, setting the story in a medieval setting with knights and treachery… sheer perfection! Maven and Reeve are two of my new favourite characters. I love how their friendship grew and how they were able to put aside their differences to seek out what was most important. I just wish we knew a little bit more about the spoilt king and those that still aspire to look out for him, despite his selfish ways.
Thank you @penguinbooksaus and @penguinteenaus for gifting me this book to read!
Thank you @penguinbooksaus and @penguinteenaus for gifting me this book to read!
June 23, 2021
This fabulous tale crackles with life and intrigue as colourful characters, horrible histories, plots and mysteries intertwine. An historical story, boring? Not a chance with these fascinating folk. Maven and Reeve are servants, and yet nothing is as it seems as this story unravels to reveal that these two have much to do to save their own skins as well as preserving the futures of their mistress/master. Loved it! Can’t wait to try it out on my primary schoolers. Can’t wait for more stories to follow!
August 18, 2020
Loved it! In The Fire Star, there is a strategic marriage between a Lady and a Knight at the centre of kingdom drama (incl. spies, thieves, gamblers, social climbers, wyld women, secret societies and a precious family heirloom jewel). We as the reader are alternating POV between the Knight's squire, Reeve, and the Lady's companion/servant, Maven, who are both 15 years old. This makes it a really great story for any gender to read and is a lot of fun with some surprising twists and turns!
October 7, 2020
This is a far more mature book than Tait's previous work. Set in the world of castles, squires, and ladies in waiting, this is the kind of medieval-esque tale I would've loved as a child.
This novel is the first in a series, and had to do a lot of work to establish the world and characters. This makes the first half of the novel a little slow. However, the pace picks up offer the last half and it concludes with an enjoyable and satisfying ending.
I look forward to reading book two.
This novel is the first in a series, and had to do a lot of work to establish the world and characters. This makes the first half of the novel a little slow. However, the pace picks up offer the last half and it concludes with an enjoyable and satisfying ending.
I look forward to reading book two.
October 9, 2020
Great read for 10-16, I enjoyed the two POV although I would have preferred it Maven’s POV was not in first person, as Reeve’s was not. I particularly enjoyed the clever plot and feel it would open the eyes of pre-teens and teens to the struggles of females throughout history to share their intellect or in fact be educated to an equal level as males in any part of society. Will definitely be recommending.
September 14, 2022
I could not put it down! I wasn’t sure what to expect but had heard great things, and they were all true. I’m a mom of 3 in her 30’s reading this and I’m going to recommend it to all historical fiction readers, regardless of their age!
Can’t wait to start the second book!
Can’t wait to start the second book!
Want to read
January 16, 2023Why do I keep finding books I’d love to read, but are not available on Kindle? (This book is an example.)
Meanwhile, I also keep reading some of the most badly written, egregiously typed, and grammatically horrifying “books” - available and unabashedly promoted on Kindle.
What a dilemma.
Meanwhile, I also keep reading some of the most badly written, egregiously typed, and grammatically horrifying “books” - available and unabashedly promoted on Kindle.
What a dilemma.
August 26, 2024
I've had this book and it's sequel on my shelf for a while but never got to it. I knew I wanted to read it, especially considering I've purged books a few times and kept them.
I enjoyed this! Safe for kids and not too hard to follow.
I enjoyed this! Safe for kids and not too hard to follow.
September 22, 2020
It was nice to escape and return to medieval times, loved it!!!
December 13, 2020
A cracking mystery, with plenty of action at the climax. Lots of intrigue and castle politics so best suited to 10+ readers who will enjoy unpacking the web of favours, duty and etiquette.
August 22, 2021
Loved this first book in the Maven & Reeve mystery series. Set in the days of Knights and Maidens and all the intrigues of Castle life. Terrific read for ages 10-15.
December 8, 2021
Enjoyed this story and looking forward to more from these characters
January 4, 2022
It was an amazing suspenseful read.
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