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Valverda and the Firelight Thief
A magical fantasy adventure about courage, friendship, and secrets that could destroy a realm.
Elena Zarlenga was meant to become the perfect Distinctum recruit – obedient, fearless, and ready to follow the path chosen for her. Instead, she promises to forge her own fate.
On Selection Day, her life changes… just not in the way anyone expected.
Chosen by Valverda, a hidden academy guarding the realm from a power so dangerous it must remain in their deepest shadows, Elena enters a world of elemental magic, mythical creatures and fierce friendships. But when her amulet refuses to bond, she becomes the only Valverdian without an element – and unless she can prove herself through the trials ahead, she and her friends could lose their place at the academy for good.
As whispers of a rebel thief spread through the land, Elena and her friends uncover clues no one else has seen. The deeper they dig, the more they realise the danger is far greater than anyone realises… and they may be the only ones who can stop it.
Then the blood moon rises. Shadows stir. And Elena discovers a truth she was never meant to find – a truth that could change everything.
With danger closing in, she must decide: accept that she is powerless… or become the hero she was never meant to be.
Suitable for readers aged 8–12.
Elena Zarlenga was meant to become the perfect Distinctum recruit – obedient, fearless, and ready to follow the path chosen for her. Instead, she promises to forge her own fate.
On Selection Day, her life changes… just not in the way anyone expected.
Chosen by Valverda, a hidden academy guarding the realm from a power so dangerous it must remain in their deepest shadows, Elena enters a world of elemental magic, mythical creatures and fierce friendships. But when her amulet refuses to bond, she becomes the only Valverdian without an element – and unless she can prove herself through the trials ahead, she and her friends could lose their place at the academy for good.
As whispers of a rebel thief spread through the land, Elena and her friends uncover clues no one else has seen. The deeper they dig, the more they realise the danger is far greater than anyone realises… and they may be the only ones who can stop it.
Then the blood moon rises. Shadows stir. And Elena discovers a truth she was never meant to find – a truth that could change everything.
With danger closing in, she must decide: accept that she is powerless… or become the hero she was never meant to be.
Suitable for readers aged 8–12.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
12 people are currently reading
651 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
February 6, 2026
Good for 13-year old Girl
I shared this with my 13-year-old granddaughter. She said she read it. When I asked what she thought, she shrugged, said "it was okay. I guess" then smiled (a little) and said 'Thank you, Mamaw'. I'll take that as a win!
I shared this with my 13-year-old granddaughter. She said she read it. When I asked what she thought, she shrugged, said "it was okay. I guess" then smiled (a little) and said 'Thank you, Mamaw'. I'll take that as a win!
March 29, 2026
I was kindly invited by the author to read Valverda and the Firelight Thief, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to experience this story. Even in a digital format, the illustrated touches added an extra layer of charm and helped bring the world to life. While I truly appreciate being asked to read this book, all thoughts and opinions here are my own.
What I Loved:
The worldbuilding introduces a clear and imaginative magical system that feels accessible for younger readers, and I appreciated how naturally it was woven into the story. The characters, especially Elena, feel grounded and relatable despite the magical setting, and their dynamics help carry the narrative forward. The pacing is also well-suited for a middle-grade audience, keeping the story moving without becoming overwhelming.
What I Didn’t Love:
For me, the story didn’t quite maintain my engagement as I got further into it. While the structure and familiar elements may be comforting for some readers, I found myself wanting a bit more distinction to fully stay invested in the journey.
Rating:
⭐️ 3.5 out of 5 stars. I found myself sitting right between “this was enjoyable” and “this didn’t fully stick with me.” There were elements I appreciated—especially the characters and overall concept—but it didn’t quite leave a lasting impression or fully hold my attention throughout.
Recommendation:
I would recommend this to middle-grade readers—especially those just beginning to fall in love with fantasy. It has all the elements that make the genre exciting at that age: magic, friendship, and a sense of discovery. It would also make a great gift for younger readers who enjoy immersive worlds and character-focused adventures.
One Compelling Sentence:
A magical, character-driven middle-grade fantasy that offers a familiar and accessible entry point into the genre for younger readers.
What I Loved:
The worldbuilding introduces a clear and imaginative magical system that feels accessible for younger readers, and I appreciated how naturally it was woven into the story. The characters, especially Elena, feel grounded and relatable despite the magical setting, and their dynamics help carry the narrative forward. The pacing is also well-suited for a middle-grade audience, keeping the story moving without becoming overwhelming.
What I Didn’t Love:
For me, the story didn’t quite maintain my engagement as I got further into it. While the structure and familiar elements may be comforting for some readers, I found myself wanting a bit more distinction to fully stay invested in the journey.
Rating:
⭐️ 3.5 out of 5 stars. I found myself sitting right between “this was enjoyable” and “this didn’t fully stick with me.” There were elements I appreciated—especially the characters and overall concept—but it didn’t quite leave a lasting impression or fully hold my attention throughout.
Recommendation:
I would recommend this to middle-grade readers—especially those just beginning to fall in love with fantasy. It has all the elements that make the genre exciting at that age: magic, friendship, and a sense of discovery. It would also make a great gift for younger readers who enjoy immersive worlds and character-focused adventures.
One Compelling Sentence:
A magical, character-driven middle-grade fantasy that offers a familiar and accessible entry point into the genre for younger readers.
January 21, 2026
Valverda and the Firelight Thief pulled me in from the first page. Such strong Harry Potter vibes, I’m curious is Ally Mac was inspired a bit, if so, I approve! The underdog group stood out to me the most, I liked how they broke the rules, but to catch the thief! The characters felt alive, and the entire story kept moving.
Elena is my favorite, bright, bold, and unmistakably different from her family. Her character stayed with me, long after reading. I would this ten stars if I could, five doesn’t justify how good it is! I am hoping for book two!
Brilliantly written fantasy with energy, heart, and a world I want more of.
Elena is my favorite, bright, bold, and unmistakably different from her family. Her character stayed with me, long after reading. I would this ten stars if I could, five doesn’t justify how good it is! I am hoping for book two!
Brilliantly written fantasy with energy, heart, and a world I want more of.
January 8, 2026
i picked up a copy of this book from Booksirens. this was a good little book. quick read between books. will pick up a copy do my little free library. the kids will love it!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews