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Crow: Thief of Magic: New for 2026, an epic fantasy adventure
'A beautifully written compelling story told with panache and style. A fantastic debut.' – Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear
MAGIC KNOWS MAGIC.
With an incredible story, a stunning, richly detailed world, and a wonderful cast of characters, Thief of Magic is an unputdownable, exciting and hugely ambitious fantasy adventure.
'A dream of a book, packed with enchantment, imagination and immersive storytelling.' – Pari Thomson, author of Greenwild
'A unique, beautifully written debut with the heart of a dark fairy tale' – Philippa Leathley
Twelve-year-old Crow is a thief.
Scraping a living on the winding streets of Starsgard, Crow works for the leader of the criminal underworld, stealing from the city’s wealthy ruling class. But when a routine job takes Crow to the home of a mysterious sorcerer, his whole life is turned upside down – and after a planned heist goes wrong, leaving Crow alone and with nowhere to turn, he finds himself a new position as the sorcerer’s apprentice.
Before long, Crow is introduced to the ancient art of dream magic – catching dream essence and using it to create dreams for the rich citizens from whom he once stole. But when Crow learns of an ancient strain of nightmare magic that threatens to unleash devastation on Starsgard, he must make a terrible choice… and decide who he can really trust.
With a stunning, richly-detailed world, an incredible story, and a wonderful cast of characters, Thief of Magic is an extraordinarily exciting fantasy debut – perfect for fans of Impossible Creatures, His Dark Materials, and Skandar and the Unicorn Thief.
'A glorious adventure, glittering with dream magic, danger, and truest friendship. Crow's tale is sure to capture the imaginations of readers everywhere, and linger long after the final page – it is a phenomenal piece of storytelling.' – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn
'Richly atmospheric and immersive. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end.' – Clare Harlow, author of Tidemagic
'With her intricate world building and compelling characters, Fiona Dixon invites us into a world of dreams, a world which I would happily never leave. Thief of Magic fizzes with enchantment and mystery.' – Ash Bond, author of Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm
'An absolute diamond of a magical adventure! Fiona Dixon has created a dazzling fantasy world, woven with epic dream magic and featuring an astounding main character. I loved it!' – Rachel Morrisroe, author of Felix and the Future Agency
' Thief of Magic is rich with adventure and bright with imagination. I never wanted to leave Starsgard.' – Megan Hopkins, author of Starminster
' Thief of Magic stole my heart! With every thrilling page, I fell further into the wonderful world of Starsgard. A brilliantly written, magical story of hope, friendship and the power of dreams.' – Becca Rogers, author of The Girl with Gills
MAGIC KNOWS MAGIC.
With an incredible story, a stunning, richly detailed world, and a wonderful cast of characters, Thief of Magic is an unputdownable, exciting and hugely ambitious fantasy adventure.
'A dream of a book, packed with enchantment, imagination and immersive storytelling.' – Pari Thomson, author of Greenwild
'A unique, beautifully written debut with the heart of a dark fairy tale' – Philippa Leathley
Twelve-year-old Crow is a thief.
Scraping a living on the winding streets of Starsgard, Crow works for the leader of the criminal underworld, stealing from the city’s wealthy ruling class. But when a routine job takes Crow to the home of a mysterious sorcerer, his whole life is turned upside down – and after a planned heist goes wrong, leaving Crow alone and with nowhere to turn, he finds himself a new position as the sorcerer’s apprentice.
Before long, Crow is introduced to the ancient art of dream magic – catching dream essence and using it to create dreams for the rich citizens from whom he once stole. But when Crow learns of an ancient strain of nightmare magic that threatens to unleash devastation on Starsgard, he must make a terrible choice… and decide who he can really trust.
With a stunning, richly-detailed world, an incredible story, and a wonderful cast of characters, Thief of Magic is an extraordinarily exciting fantasy debut – perfect for fans of Impossible Creatures, His Dark Materials, and Skandar and the Unicorn Thief.
'A glorious adventure, glittering with dream magic, danger, and truest friendship. Crow's tale is sure to capture the imaginations of readers everywhere, and linger long after the final page – it is a phenomenal piece of storytelling.' – Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn
'Richly atmospheric and immersive. The twists and turns kept me guessing until the end.' – Clare Harlow, author of Tidemagic
'With her intricate world building and compelling characters, Fiona Dixon invites us into a world of dreams, a world which I would happily never leave. Thief of Magic fizzes with enchantment and mystery.' – Ash Bond, author of Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm
'An absolute diamond of a magical adventure! Fiona Dixon has created a dazzling fantasy world, woven with epic dream magic and featuring an astounding main character. I loved it!' – Rachel Morrisroe, author of Felix and the Future Agency
' Thief of Magic is rich with adventure and bright with imagination. I never wanted to leave Starsgard.' – Megan Hopkins, author of Starminster
' Thief of Magic stole my heart! With every thrilling page, I fell further into the wonderful world of Starsgard. A brilliantly written, magical story of hope, friendship and the power of dreams.' – Becca Rogers, author of The Girl with Gills
- GenresMiddle Grade
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 22, 2026
Crow lives on the streets of Starsgard of Eortha - bonded by fear and control by the Reaver gang. The only good thing in his life, is time spent with his close friends Sal and Jonas. They share their food they scrounge or buy with their meagre spoils of pick pocketing allowed by the gang or anything else they can earn. They also share their dreams to escape the gang and finally be free of them.
While working on a plan for their future, a job goes terribly wrong and lives are lost. Crow's life is suddenly changed forever as he finds himself under the care and then tutelage of the city's Dream Maker.
Viktor Avery is wealthy and famous in Starsgard, but he isn't all he seems. Crow must decide whether to believe a strange ghost's warning about Viktor, or Viktor's kindness and care of him.
Crow discovers his special knack to stay alive on the rough dark streets of the city is more magic than street smarts. Can he harness it in time to save himself, his friends and the entire city?
My thoughts
Beginning with a detailed map, Crow's world was easy to immerse myself in. He's a kind and thoughtful character, living on the streets where food is scarce and kindness even more so.
His bond and loyalty to his friends is heart warming in such a harsh life, and his unexpected apprenticeship to harness the full power of his latent magic, an intriguing story line.
Crow's magic is connected to Dreams, and to his horror, Nightmares too, which bring important contrasts to this novel and Crow himself. Rich world building kept me reading right up to an exciting climax and satisfying conclusion.
Perfectly paced with action, tough choices to be made, and deciding who to trust as a young street-kid, this middle-grade novel is an engaging read. I cared about Crow very early in the narrative and was keen to see him come into his own on the streets of a fictional medieval-styled, fantasy city.
(Thanks to Harper Collins NZ for my ARC)
While working on a plan for their future, a job goes terribly wrong and lives are lost. Crow's life is suddenly changed forever as he finds himself under the care and then tutelage of the city's Dream Maker.
Viktor Avery is wealthy and famous in Starsgard, but he isn't all he seems. Crow must decide whether to believe a strange ghost's warning about Viktor, or Viktor's kindness and care of him.
Crow discovers his special knack to stay alive on the rough dark streets of the city is more magic than street smarts. Can he harness it in time to save himself, his friends and the entire city?
My thoughts
Beginning with a detailed map, Crow's world was easy to immerse myself in. He's a kind and thoughtful character, living on the streets where food is scarce and kindness even more so.
His bond and loyalty to his friends is heart warming in such a harsh life, and his unexpected apprenticeship to harness the full power of his latent magic, an intriguing story line.
Crow's magic is connected to Dreams, and to his horror, Nightmares too, which bring important contrasts to this novel and Crow himself. Rich world building kept me reading right up to an exciting climax and satisfying conclusion.
Perfectly paced with action, tough choices to be made, and deciding who to trust as a young street-kid, this middle-grade novel is an engaging read. I cared about Crow very early in the narrative and was keen to see him come into his own on the streets of a fictional medieval-styled, fantasy city.
(Thanks to Harper Collins NZ for my ARC)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story! From the very first page, the prose felt incredibly cinematic—I could easily envision this being adapted into an animated feature film. It has that rare "pixar-esque" quality that would captivate children while remaining deeply engaging for older readers.
Crow was easily the standout for me. He is such a compassionate, innocent, and loyal protagonist. Even when faced with adversity or hurt, his desire to do best by his friends, Sal and Jonas, never wavered. While the entire cast was charming, I would have loved to dive even deeper into Viktor’s backstory.
The magic system—centered around the fascinating interplay between dreams and nightmares—is brilliant yet accessible. I loved the exploration of how these forces affect our lives differently. The writing style is smooth and uncomplicated, making it a perfect recommendation for MG/YA readers or anyone looking for a "comfort read."
With a satisfying mystery and a heartwarming ending, this is a story I’ll definitely revisit when I need something sweet and uplifting.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Crow was easily the standout for me. He is such a compassionate, innocent, and loyal protagonist. Even when faced with adversity or hurt, his desire to do best by his friends, Sal and Jonas, never wavered. While the entire cast was charming, I would have loved to dive even deeper into Viktor’s backstory.
The magic system—centered around the fascinating interplay between dreams and nightmares—is brilliant yet accessible. I loved the exploration of how these forces affect our lives differently. The writing style is smooth and uncomplicated, making it a perfect recommendation for MG/YA readers or anyone looking for a "comfort read."
With a satisfying mystery and a heartwarming ending, this is a story I’ll definitely revisit when I need something sweet and uplifting.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2026
✨ Crow Thief of Magic by Fiona Dixon ✨
💚 This fast-paced fantasy novel was absolutely compelling. I couldn’t put it down and spent every moment with my nose in the pages, desperate to find out the ending and test my theories.
🐦⬛ Fiona’s debut is filled with magic, corruption, greed, betrayal, unlikely friendships, mystery and a plot that will keep you guessing until the end.
🐈⬛ My favourite character was Nekima, a cat who can communicate with the main character, Crow. But is she who she says she is or will she deceive Crow in the end?
💭 Crow finds himself in the role as a dreamcatcher’s apprentice when a heist goes wrong with his friends. Finding himself all alone, he does what he needs to do to survive. Did he make the right decision?
✨ There are many amazing characters and rich description throughout. This debut is guaranteed to be a hit with fans of mystery and magical adventures. If you’re a fan of Shadow Thieves or Dream Hunters then you are sure to love this book.
Ad/gifted by The Rebel Reading Society
Out 7th May. Preorder now.
💚 This fast-paced fantasy novel was absolutely compelling. I couldn’t put it down and spent every moment with my nose in the pages, desperate to find out the ending and test my theories.
🐦⬛ Fiona’s debut is filled with magic, corruption, greed, betrayal, unlikely friendships, mystery and a plot that will keep you guessing until the end.
🐈⬛ My favourite character was Nekima, a cat who can communicate with the main character, Crow. But is she who she says she is or will she deceive Crow in the end?
💭 Crow finds himself in the role as a dreamcatcher’s apprentice when a heist goes wrong with his friends. Finding himself all alone, he does what he needs to do to survive. Did he make the right decision?
✨ There are many amazing characters and rich description throughout. This debut is guaranteed to be a hit with fans of mystery and magical adventures. If you’re a fan of Shadow Thieves or Dream Hunters then you are sure to love this book.
Ad/gifted by The Rebel Reading Society
Out 7th May. Preorder now.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this was an excellent, very exciting and well-written children's fantasy. not too many characters, and all had their place in the story. Crow was a really good hearted main character, without being all goody-two-shoes. he was, after all, a thief.
I loved the idea of creating dreams (and nightmares) that people could use and give themselves a wonderful dream and sleep (as an insomniac I'd love to just open a bottle of a dream and instantly fall asleep!) and it was well explained. you learned alongside Crow as Viktor trains him as his apprentice.
I only have one issue with this book, a small one. And that's the title. I don't feel like it really fits with the story, as, although Crow is a thief to begin with, he doesn't really steal magic at any point. I feel using the Dreamcatching element in the title would have been better. but that's just my opinion. otherwise this book was great.
I loved the idea of creating dreams (and nightmares) that people could use and give themselves a wonderful dream and sleep (as an insomniac I'd love to just open a bottle of a dream and instantly fall asleep!) and it was well explained. you learned alongside Crow as Viktor trains him as his apprentice.
I only have one issue with this book, a small one. And that's the title. I don't feel like it really fits with the story, as, although Crow is a thief to begin with, he doesn't really steal magic at any point. I feel using the Dreamcatching element in the title would have been better. but that's just my opinion. otherwise this book was great.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Twelve year old Crow is a thief, eking out a hardscrabble living in Starsgard as a member of a criminal gang, The Reavers, which he and his two best friends dream of escaping from.
When he is given an unexpected opportunity to apprentice with a dreamcatcher, Crow discovers that he is blessed with powerful magic. But is there more to this offer than he realises? Especially given the strange events focused around the comet that is coming closer to the planetary orbit and affecting the magical powers wielded by Crow and others...
Featuring original story telling and excellent world building, this book holds appeal for readers in the target group and beyond.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
When he is given an unexpected opportunity to apprentice with a dreamcatcher, Crow discovers that he is blessed with powerful magic. But is there more to this offer than he realises? Especially given the strange events focused around the comet that is coming closer to the planetary orbit and affecting the magical powers wielded by Crow and others...
Featuring original story telling and excellent world building, this book holds appeal for readers in the target group and beyond.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 25, 2026
I think of this book had been named ‘The Magic Thief’ the whole story would have been set up better. As the stealing of magic itself didn’t really seem to feature in the book. That said I enjoyed the fact the world building included some of the history of Starsgard and I always appreciate a map in a book. The descriptions of the dreams and nightmares immediately brought them to life. None of the characters were over simplified as all good or all bad either which can be hard to do in a middle grade book.
However I felt it was missing that unique spark. The plot was quite predictable in many ways. It was a bit like a cross between The Golden Compass and Oliver Twist.
However I felt it was missing that unique spark. The plot was quite predictable in many ways. It was a bit like a cross between The Golden Compass and Oliver Twist.
May 7, 2026
I'm fully down with the themes and the magic system built around them, where dreams and nightmares help people discover harmony and balance. The worldbuilding and the emotional stakes for Crow are well realised, but I was less convinced by the structure of the plot. For one, the secondary point of view (Viktor) gave too much away and eliminated all the suspense; secondly, although Crow faced big obstacles, the magical solutions to them came to him very easily.
Overall, sweetness and fun: full marks; suspense: zero.
Overall, sweetness and fun: full marks; suspense: zero.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Excellent magical adventure. Crow works in the underworld but wants out. His opportunity comes when a job goes wrong. With nothing left, he discovers his latent magic powers and becomes an apprentice to a sorcerer whose speciality is dream magic. But as in all good stories, all is not as it seems, and as All Saints day approaches things are about to come to a head. Full of intrigue, ghosts, magic and a talking cat. Brilliant.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book is sure to be an instant classic. I really enjoyed the worldbuilding and the friendship between Crow, Sal, and Jonas.
I finished this in a day, and I would quite happily start it all over again.
The dreams and nightmares gave me BFG vibes, which I absolutely loved.
This may be my favourite book of the year so far.
I finished this in a day, and I would quite happily start it all over again.
The dreams and nightmares gave me BFG vibes, which I absolutely loved.
This may be my favourite book of the year so far.
May 24, 2026
Really nice YA. Pretty cosy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Crow: Thief of magic is a brilliant debut in the world of children's fantasy fiction.
This is the story of Crow - a member of thieving hidden community - surviving in the city of Starsgard. But when the chance to carry out a large jobbed escape the city with his fiends Sal and Jonas goes horribly wrong, Crow finds himself at the home of Viktor. Viktor is a magician -a man with an incredible skill. He is a dream catcher and Crow is given the opportunity to be his apprentice.
Set against the backdrop of an impending sighting of the comet Oros, Crow finds himself in a world where he is working with the people he used to steal from. Can he change his life? But when Crow begins to realise that not all is what it seems and there is the potential of a mysterious spell casting death across a city, he has to fight for his life and the citizens. A race against time begins.
Fiona Dixon has written a tremendous debut- perfect for 9-12 year olds. A personal book read or a great KS2 class story. Fast paced, full of wonderful imagination and a tension that builds and builds. Crow is a wonderful creation and I'm sure it won't be long before he returns.
Highly recommended - storytelling at its best - and I'd even go as far to say that if you are an adult who enjoys a great fantasy story why not come and join Crow's adventure.
Thank you to Harper Collins Children's books and Netgalley for the advance copy
This is the story of Crow - a member of thieving hidden community - surviving in the city of Starsgard. But when the chance to carry out a large jobbed escape the city with his fiends Sal and Jonas goes horribly wrong, Crow finds himself at the home of Viktor. Viktor is a magician -a man with an incredible skill. He is a dream catcher and Crow is given the opportunity to be his apprentice.
Set against the backdrop of an impending sighting of the comet Oros, Crow finds himself in a world where he is working with the people he used to steal from. Can he change his life? But when Crow begins to realise that not all is what it seems and there is the potential of a mysterious spell casting death across a city, he has to fight for his life and the citizens. A race against time begins.
Fiona Dixon has written a tremendous debut- perfect for 9-12 year olds. A personal book read or a great KS2 class story. Fast paced, full of wonderful imagination and a tension that builds and builds. Crow is a wonderful creation and I'm sure it won't be long before he returns.
Highly recommended - storytelling at its best - and I'd even go as far to say that if you are an adult who enjoys a great fantasy story why not come and join Crow's adventure.
Thank you to Harper Collins Children's books and Netgalley for the advance copy
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews