What do you think?
Rate this book
Band of Unlikely Heroes #2
Mossycoat
Troll Princess Horra Fyd may have succeeded in getting the druid seed to the magical Weald forest in time to sprout, but she’s finding that getting her kingdom back in order is not as easy as she hoped. Oddar’s subjects are rebelling and trolls are mysteriously disappearing without a trace. Horra and her father King Divitri are at a loss on what’s happening, but they know who’s behind it all.
When Horra’s summoned back to the Weald to meet Rowan, the new druid warrior, she finds the woodgoblin a know-it-all stick in the mud. Rowan’s not impressed with the troll princess, either. However, after a suspicious magical fire destroys the Weald, they’re forced to rely on each other to venture out in a kingdom that’s becoming more dangerous by the day.
Will Horra and Rowan be able to set their differences aside to become a strong team? Or will they fall into the Erlking’s traps, stopping their mission before it even gets started?
When Horra’s summoned back to the Weald to meet Rowan, the new druid warrior, she finds the woodgoblin a know-it-all stick in the mud. Rowan’s not impressed with the troll princess, either. However, after a suspicious magical fire destroys the Weald, they’re forced to rely on each other to venture out in a kingdom that’s becoming more dangerous by the day.
Will Horra and Rowan be able to set their differences aside to become a strong team? Or will they fall into the Erlking’s traps, stopping their mission before it even gets started?
- GenresFantasy
317 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2024
10 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Ford
11 books107 followersDawn Ford writes wholesome fiction for Middle-grade, teen, and adult audiences.
Dawn adores anything steampunk, is mesmerized by shiny, pretty things, hoards shoes & purses, and needs at least one good, strong cup of coffee to wake her up a day.
Dawn’s novel, The Girl With Stars In Her Eyes, won the 2016 ACFW Genesis Award. Her novels Woodencloak and Mossycoat were finalists in Realm Maker's Realm awards.
Reach out to Dawn Ford via
her website: www.dawnfordauthor.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DawnFordAuthor/, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawn_ford_a..., and Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/dawnfordaut.... She’d love to hear from you!
Dawn adores anything steampunk, is mesmerized by shiny, pretty things, hoards shoes & purses, and needs at least one good, strong cup of coffee to wake her up a day.
Dawn’s novel, The Girl With Stars In Her Eyes, won the 2016 ACFW Genesis Award. Her novels Woodencloak and Mossycoat were finalists in Realm Maker's Realm awards.
Reach out to Dawn Ford via
her website: www.dawnfordauthor.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DawnFordAuthor/, Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dawn_ford_a..., and Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/dawnfordaut.... She’d love to hear from you!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 21, 2024
Book 2 took me on quite a thrilling ride with Horra and gang as they encountered more adventure-filled trials. I found myself holding my breath quite often as I read with fury making sure they would be okay. There are many nuggets of wisdom throughout the book that I just love. Now to wait for book 3 …
September 23, 2024
Although I have not read the first book in this series yet, I thought the story was well written with fun and unique characters. I liked how the author made us feel like we were apart of the adventure her characters were going on. I also liked how they were each so different and unique and how they we a little different from how we typical would envision these creatures. After reading this book I would be interested in reading the first book so that I understand better how we got to where the book started and I would like to read the next book to see where these characters go from here. If you like a good fantasy then this is a series to check out.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
July 26, 2025
A fun continuation of the Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed seeing Rowan grow as a person and in his understanding of others.
Looking forward to the next book.
Looking forward to the next book.
September 27, 2024
I've enjoyed every fantasy novel that I've read from Dawn Ford. Following its predecessor, Woodencloak, Mossycoat allows readers to rejoin Troll Princess Horra Fyd on another magical journey, with characters both old and new. I was happy to discover that my enjoyment of Ford's books continued with this second installment in the Band of Unlikely Heroes series.
There is a terrible villain in Horra's world; an Erlking who, with a few pipes on his panflute, can bend the hearers' minds to his will. He has enslaved many, including some from Horra's Troll King father's kingdom. So Horra goes off with her childhood troll friend Torren, and warrior Murda, and of course, her woodencloak (and yes, it IS a cloak made of wood), to rescue her subjects and to stop the Erlking. On the way, they stop by the Weald Forest to pick up the new druid warrior, Rowan; who's pretty book-smart but doesn't have the ability, yet, as a youth druid, to register others' emotions or sarcasm.
Before the end of their hero's (or heroes'!) journey, Horra, Torren, and Rowan will face capture. Loss. Tragedy. But I promise you will be turning the pages as quickly as you possibly can, hoping that they will somehow win the day! These heroes are unlikely, to be sure; but that makes them all the more appealing. These are not your usual fairy-tale characters. But you'll be cheering them on, all the way to the book's end!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
There is a terrible villain in Horra's world; an Erlking who, with a few pipes on his panflute, can bend the hearers' minds to his will. He has enslaved many, including some from Horra's Troll King father's kingdom. So Horra goes off with her childhood troll friend Torren, and warrior Murda, and of course, her woodencloak (and yes, it IS a cloak made of wood), to rescue her subjects and to stop the Erlking. On the way, they stop by the Weald Forest to pick up the new druid warrior, Rowan; who's pretty book-smart but doesn't have the ability, yet, as a youth druid, to register others' emotions or sarcasm.
Before the end of their hero's (or heroes'!) journey, Horra, Torren, and Rowan will face capture. Loss. Tragedy. But I promise you will be turning the pages as quickly as you possibly can, hoping that they will somehow win the day! These heroes are unlikely, to be sure; but that makes them all the more appealing. These are not your usual fairy-tale characters. But you'll be cheering them on, all the way to the book's end!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my own honest ones.
September 12, 2024
This year my reading goal has been to step out of my comfort zone and read out of my go-to genres. Fantasy has always been a genre that is a struggle for me but one thing I will say about fantasy novels is the imagery is always unmatched. The attention to detail makes this world come alive in full technicolor and this adorable cover is what first drew me in to Mossycoat.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to make sense of the story. This is the second book in the series and since I didn’t get a chance to read the first novel before I read this one it took a bit to get my bearings. It’s clear that you’re stepping into a world that is already established so I had to play catch-up, but the author did a phenomenal job of filling in those gaps. Soon, all the pieces started to fall into place and the world came alive. I couldn’t put it down after that.
It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a fantasy novel as much as I did Mossycoat. There are some truly heartbreaking moments that I was not expecting, my heart aching for the characters as they fight this horrible war. There are some pretty suspenseful moments and a few cringy ones that actually grossed me out. Love the incredible imagery!
Though this can be read as a standalone I feel like I would’ve enjoyed it sooner had I read the first book in the series, which I do plan on doing before the next installment comes out. Dawn Ford, you just might make me a fantasy lover yet!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was ever going to make sense of the story. This is the second book in the series and since I didn’t get a chance to read the first novel before I read this one it took a bit to get my bearings. It’s clear that you’re stepping into a world that is already established so I had to play catch-up, but the author did a phenomenal job of filling in those gaps. Soon, all the pieces started to fall into place and the world came alive. I couldn’t put it down after that.
It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a fantasy novel as much as I did Mossycoat. There are some truly heartbreaking moments that I was not expecting, my heart aching for the characters as they fight this horrible war. There are some pretty suspenseful moments and a few cringy ones that actually grossed me out. Love the incredible imagery!
Though this can be read as a standalone I feel like I would’ve enjoyed it sooner had I read the first book in the series, which I do plan on doing before the next installment comes out. Dawn Ford, you just might make me a fantasy lover yet!
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
September 25, 2024
Fantasy is not a genre that truly interests me. I have been expanding my interest a bit, and recently read The MossyCoat by Dawn Ford, which is Book 2 in the Unlikey Heroes Series. I have not read Book 1 in this series, but the book flowed nicely.
I have to say the storyline wasn't what I was expecting. The book started off slow, but got very interesting in Chapter 2. Troll Princess Horra is the main character in this book. She is trying to get her "world" back in order after succeeding at getting the Forest to sprout. Things are not going as planned, especially when Trolls are missing. Troll Princess Horra meets Rowan in the Weald and Rowan is not impressed with the Princess. Strange things continue to happen in the Weald and they are in danger. I really LOVE how the author brings the 2 closer as they try to avoid danger. The friendship begins to become stronger. The book is filled with Mystery, Fantasy and Suspense. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Fantasy. Good Book
I have to say the storyline wasn't what I was expecting. The book started off slow, but got very interesting in Chapter 2. Troll Princess Horra is the main character in this book. She is trying to get her "world" back in order after succeeding at getting the Forest to sprout. Things are not going as planned, especially when Trolls are missing. Troll Princess Horra meets Rowan in the Weald and Rowan is not impressed with the Princess. Strange things continue to happen in the Weald and they are in danger. I really LOVE how the author brings the 2 closer as they try to avoid danger. The friendship begins to become stronger. The book is filled with Mystery, Fantasy and Suspense. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Fantasy. Good Book
July 10, 2024
Book 2 of the Band of Unlikely Heroes Series was just as fun, whimsical, and action packed as Book 1!
Troll Princess Horra made it in time to the Weald Forest to plant the seed of the new Druid woodgoblin, Rowan, but feels that getting her kingdom back together won’t be easy. Trolls are going missing and several of kingdom’s subjects are rebelling. Horra and her father know that the Erkling is behind all of the chaos, but don’t know why or what the Erkling’s next move will be. Horra is soon summoned to the Weald Forest to bring Rowan to Oddar, but soon discovers that the Erkling’s power can destroy much more than they anticipated, and Horra fears that working with the know it all woodgoblin Rowan might deter her plans to save her kingdom, one way or another.
This story has so many fantastical elements! From the creatures, to the different settings, to our little band of heroes and their dynamic together as young leaders trying to save the Wilden Lands-it’s a delight to read. It’s so satisfying watching Horra and Rowan’s individual growth as they learn to not just work together but also to understand each other as well. The found family of Horra, Rowan, Torren, and Murda was so much fun too!
I cannot wait to read book 3!
Romantic Content: Clean
TW: Mind Control, Death of Loved Ones, Poisoning
Troll Princess Horra made it in time to the Weald Forest to plant the seed of the new Druid woodgoblin, Rowan, but feels that getting her kingdom back together won’t be easy. Trolls are going missing and several of kingdom’s subjects are rebelling. Horra and her father know that the Erkling is behind all of the chaos, but don’t know why or what the Erkling’s next move will be. Horra is soon summoned to the Weald Forest to bring Rowan to Oddar, but soon discovers that the Erkling’s power can destroy much more than they anticipated, and Horra fears that working with the know it all woodgoblin Rowan might deter her plans to save her kingdom, one way or another.
This story has so many fantastical elements! From the creatures, to the different settings, to our little band of heroes and their dynamic together as young leaders trying to save the Wilden Lands-it’s a delight to read. It’s so satisfying watching Horra and Rowan’s individual growth as they learn to not just work together but also to understand each other as well. The found family of Horra, Rowan, Torren, and Murda was so much fun too!
I cannot wait to read book 3!
Romantic Content: Clean
TW: Mind Control, Death of Loved Ones, Poisoning
November 24, 2025
A tale with trolls and wood goblins as heroes....
My favorite troll princess is back along with some new and old friends. The quest to stop the evil Erlking continues with even more magical and hair-raising adventures in store for Horra and her kingdom. There are also some funny and poignant moments that make this series a little different from what I expected when I first started it. Horra once again steals the show for me but Rowan and his questionable navigation of social situations really endeared him to me. Mossycoat was every bit as good as the first book in The Band Of Unlikely Heroes series and I love how Dawn Ford gave some resolution but still continues with the overarching tale....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
My favorite troll princess is back along with some new and old friends. The quest to stop the evil Erlking continues with even more magical and hair-raising adventures in store for Horra and her kingdom. There are also some funny and poignant moments that make this series a little different from what I expected when I first started it. Horra once again steals the show for me but Rowan and his questionable navigation of social situations really endeared him to me. Mossycoat was every bit as good as the first book in The Band Of Unlikely Heroes series and I love how Dawn Ford gave some resolution but still continues with the overarching tale....
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
September 16, 2024
I enjoy the first book in this series and was looking forward to seeing where this one would take the characters! I highly recommend starting with the first book before diving into this one, since a fair bit of world building was done in the first book. But, I digress.
Troll Princess Horra has succeeded in her quest, but must set out on an adventure to figure out what is going on with the trolls going missing and why some of their subjects are rebelling.
I enjoyed returning to the world and watching the characters develop over the course of the story! I love fantasy style books, especially ones that I can share with my daughter. I can't wait to see where book 3 takes the story!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
Troll Princess Horra has succeeded in her quest, but must set out on an adventure to figure out what is going on with the trolls going missing and why some of their subjects are rebelling.
I enjoyed returning to the world and watching the characters develop over the course of the story! I love fantasy style books, especially ones that I can share with my daughter. I can't wait to see where book 3 takes the story!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.
July 3, 2024
Mossycoat is the second book in The Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed the first book and the second one lived up to my expectations. In this book, Troll Princess Horra Fyd is determined to protect her kingdom from the Erlking. I found Horra's character development in this second book to be remarkable, both physically and emotionally.
The introduction of Rowan, the seed that transformed from Woodsly, added an intriguing element to the story. The world-building expanded, shedding light on the Erlking's formidable power. I'm eagerly looking forward to the third book to discover if Horra and her companions can finally defeat the Erlking.
The introduction of Rowan, the seed that transformed from Woodsly, added an intriguing element to the story. The world-building expanded, shedding light on the Erlking's formidable power. I'm eagerly looking forward to the third book to discover if Horra and her companions can finally defeat the Erlking.
July 12, 2024
This second book in “A band of unlikely heros” is a fun follow-up to the first “Woodencloak” by Dawn Ford. It’s a fun, whimsical adventure, Horra the troll princess once again does her best to protect her friends and kingdom. The second half of the book is wonderfully full of fun and action!!! Rowan is an interesting character who physically and mentally grows once he is introduced in a uniquely “him” way, complementing Horra’s strength and thoughtfulness. A wonderfully enjoyable book!!! Excited for book 3!
September 23, 2024
Mossycoat is the second book in Dawn Ford’s series The Band of Unlikely Heroes. It would probably be helpful to read Woodencloak, the first book, before reading this title.
I wish that Ford had included a “previously in…” section. While I did read book 1, it has been some time since I read it (and I’ve read many other books in the meantime). It took me several chapters to remember the characters and the plot of the previous book. It is quite a long book for the age group (318 pages) so a synopsis at the beginning of Mossycoat would hook readers sooner before they decide to “give up” when they can’t figure out what is going on.
The characters are likable. The book does have many characteristics of epic fantasy - mythical characters, good vs. evil, magic, and a quest. I think if readers will “stick with it” they will enjoy the story.
Mossycoat is appropriate for a K-12 Christian school library. It is written for upper elementary and middle school students.
I received a complimentary copy of Mossycoat. This is my honest review.
I wish that Ford had included a “previously in…” section. While I did read book 1, it has been some time since I read it (and I’ve read many other books in the meantime). It took me several chapters to remember the characters and the plot of the previous book. It is quite a long book for the age group (318 pages) so a synopsis at the beginning of Mossycoat would hook readers sooner before they decide to “give up” when they can’t figure out what is going on.
The characters are likable. The book does have many characteristics of epic fantasy - mythical characters, good vs. evil, magic, and a quest. I think if readers will “stick with it” they will enjoy the story.
Mossycoat is appropriate for a K-12 Christian school library. It is written for upper elementary and middle school students.
I received a complimentary copy of Mossycoat. This is my honest review.
June 24, 2024
this book may be listed as young but I will say that it deals with some hard lessons and some very adult issues but it is done in such a loving and soft way you forget that these issues are sad and hard. the world building is fantastic with all the trolls and friends. I love rowen and Horra they are great characters and I can't wait to where this series goes in book 3
March 23, 2025
Horra is a great troll!
Horra, the kingdom's princess, is on another quest! She's a great character who struggles to be fierce. My favorite line is when Rowan tells her, "...bravery is simply fear taking a stand in the face of adversity." Can't wait to read book 3 in the series!
Horra, the kingdom's princess, is on another quest! She's a great character who struggles to be fierce. My favorite line is when Rowan tells her, "...bravery is simply fear taking a stand in the face of adversity." Can't wait to read book 3 in the series!
July 21, 2024
This was a great continuation of this series. I loved the growth of characters, and the interesting trials they went through. Looking forward to reading the next book!!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews