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Carmer and Grit #1
The Wingsnatchers
A stunning debut about a magician’s apprentice and a one-winged princess who must vanquish the mechanical monsters that stalk the streets and threaten the faerie kingdom.
Aspiring inventor and magician’s apprentice Felix Carmer III would rather be tinkering with his latest experiments than sawing girls in half on stage, but with Antoine the Amazifier’s show a tomato’s throw away from going under, Carmer is determined to win the cash prize in the biggest magic competition in Skemantis. When fate throws Carmer across the path of fiery, flightless faerie princess Grit (do not call her Grettifrida), they strike a deal. If Carmer will help Grit investigate a string of faerie disappearances, she’ll use her very real magic to give his mechanical illusions a much-needed boost against the competition. But Carmer and Grit soon discover they’re not the only duo trying to pair magic with machine – and the combination can be deadly.
In this story perfect for readers of the Lockwood & Co and Wildwood series, Sarah Jean Horwitz takes readers on a thrilling journey through a magical wooded fairyland and steampunk streets where terrifying automata cats lurk in the shadows and a mad scientist’s newest mechanical invention might be more menace than miracle.
Aspiring inventor and magician’s apprentice Felix Carmer III would rather be tinkering with his latest experiments than sawing girls in half on stage, but with Antoine the Amazifier’s show a tomato’s throw away from going under, Carmer is determined to win the cash prize in the biggest magic competition in Skemantis. When fate throws Carmer across the path of fiery, flightless faerie princess Grit (do not call her Grettifrida), they strike a deal. If Carmer will help Grit investigate a string of faerie disappearances, she’ll use her very real magic to give his mechanical illusions a much-needed boost against the competition. But Carmer and Grit soon discover they’re not the only duo trying to pair magic with machine – and the combination can be deadly.
In this story perfect for readers of the Lockwood & Co and Wildwood series, Sarah Jean Horwitz takes readers on a thrilling journey through a magical wooded fairyland and steampunk streets where terrifying automata cats lurk in the shadows and a mad scientist’s newest mechanical invention might be more menace than miracle.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published April 25, 2017
42 people are currently reading
1970 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Jean Horwitz
6 books175 followersSarah Jean Horwitz grew up next door to a cemetery and down the street from an abandoned fairy-tale theme park, which probably explains a lot. Her middle grade fantasy novel THE DARK LORD CLEMENTINE was an Amazon.com Best Book of the Month and received favorable reviews from the New York Times Book Review, School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and more. Sarah Jean's most recent book for young readers is THE DEMON SWORD ASPERIDES. She currently lives near Boston. Find Sarah Jean online at sarahjeanhorwitz.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
April 20, 2017
This book was really cute. Not my usual genre but I think it would be a great read for middle school kids. The plot was pretty interesting and it had a lot of plot twists. High recommend checking it out :)
March 29, 2017
Sarah Jean Horwitz's "The Wingsnatchers (Carmer and Grit #1)" is a wonderful, well-written tale featuring Carmer, a magician's apprentice, and Grit, a fairy princess. It is a great book for all ages and would make a fun addition for family time, or to take on a camping to read aloud around a campfire. It might not be scary, per se, but it will be fun! I am certainly looking forward to further additions in this series.
My copy of this book was obtained from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
My copy of this book was obtained from the Goodreads website and I appreciate the opportunity to read and review it.
April 19, 2017
Originally posted on: The Quirky Book Nerd
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I just finished this novel, so I’m still having a bit of trouble settling my thoughts down so I can put them into actual words. Over the years, it has become much rarer for me to give out a full five-star rating to a book, but I absolutely adored this novel. After only the first chapter—maybe even the first few pages—I was already completely hooked and in love with everything about it. It is one of those books that is written for a younger audience, but ends up transcending those limits, creating a magical tale that can be enjoyed by anyone.
This is truly a heart-pounding book. Horwitz quickly makes her readers fall in love with her characters from the very start, causing us to feel a huge range of emotions through all the trials and successes, funny moments and those that break our hearts. I laughed so hard. I deeply felt the moments of fear, pain, and sadness. And I have to admit, I even shed some tears, primarily at the nostalgic feelings this novel evoked for me. I tore through these pages, finding it so hard to put down. I just had to know the fates of these characters I had come to love so much.
Full of mystery, magic, industry and mechanical science, from start to finish it is a compelling tale full of captivating steampunk goodness. It has been a long time since I have been so drawn into a novel. It threw me back to my childhood, to all the years I spent dreaming up fairytales and magical worlds. To all the years of constantly hoping to reach a point where I am able to spend the rest of my days bringing these stories to life for others on paper and in their minds, the same way they came to life for me—the same way they have given me life all these years. This particular tale is most definitely going to stick with me for a long time.
In this novel, we follow the adventures of a young boy named Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III (Carmer for short) and a one-winged fairy princess of the Seelie realm named Grettifrida (but always call her Grit). Carmer, a magician’s apprentice and aspiring inventor, and Grit, a sassy, flightless fire fairy, are thrown together as a chance meeting evolves into a race to save the entire fae realm—as well as themselves and the city of Skemantis—from a mad scientist.
When fairies begin to go missing, captured by an unknown evil they have named “The Wingsnatchers”, it is up to Carmer and Grit to get to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances. And what is the connection of these odd events to the unexplainable ones simultaneously occurring in the human world? Mixing science with fantasy, real magic with the closest replications that humans can accomplish, this is an enchanting and fast-paced modern fairytale that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, wanting more.
The depiction of the characters—both the main and the side ones—was one of the standout points of the book for me. Every single one of her characters are fleshed out quite well, and even the most minor of characters are memorable. Carmer and Grit have such a lovely friendship, even though they are each struggling through plenty of their own troubles.
Carmer is attempting to take control of his future and leave behind his past as an orphan, and Grit is trying to make others understand that her disability does not define her—that she is as strong and capable as anyone else, despite what people may think. Though they have some extreme—and understandable—differences and find themselves at odds occasionally, once they learn to trust one another, they end up making a brilliant duo.
This is Horwitz’s first novel, but it reads as if she has been writing for decades. Flawlessly executed and incredibly beautiful, her writing is fluid and easy to fall into. It grabs hold of your imagination, your senses, and hangs on long after the final page has been read. Her vibrant descriptions and world-building are solid, showing her talent for weaving her stories into the minds of her readers.
I truly had an enjoyable time using Horwitz’s vivid narrative to put myself into this unique setting. I felt like I was there watching these events unfold right alongside the characters. She also relates this book to our present world by dealing with some themes that are very common in society today. Horwitz handles every aspect of the novel with care, meticulously unfolding an action-packed narrative. This was just such a fun adventure I did not want to pull myself out of it until I ran out of book.
I will reiterate—though I know I don’t have to at this point—that I completely fell head over heels for this novel. And unsurprisingly, I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. It is a beautifully crafted tale of family, friendship, and how two exceedingly dissimilar groups can set their differences aside and team up to fight a threat that affects them all.
Overcoming obstacle after obstacle—even those their own families and sometimes they themselves place in the way—Carmer and Grit unite in a heart-warming friendship that withstands the forces that test it. This is a fantastic beginning to a promising series. Though I don’t quite know how I am going to stand the wait, I am extremely excited to get my hands on any and all future novels.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I just finished this novel, so I’m still having a bit of trouble settling my thoughts down so I can put them into actual words. Over the years, it has become much rarer for me to give out a full five-star rating to a book, but I absolutely adored this novel. After only the first chapter—maybe even the first few pages—I was already completely hooked and in love with everything about it. It is one of those books that is written for a younger audience, but ends up transcending those limits, creating a magical tale that can be enjoyed by anyone.
This is truly a heart-pounding book. Horwitz quickly makes her readers fall in love with her characters from the very start, causing us to feel a huge range of emotions through all the trials and successes, funny moments and those that break our hearts. I laughed so hard. I deeply felt the moments of fear, pain, and sadness. And I have to admit, I even shed some tears, primarily at the nostalgic feelings this novel evoked for me. I tore through these pages, finding it so hard to put down. I just had to know the fates of these characters I had come to love so much.
Full of mystery, magic, industry and mechanical science, from start to finish it is a compelling tale full of captivating steampunk goodness. It has been a long time since I have been so drawn into a novel. It threw me back to my childhood, to all the years I spent dreaming up fairytales and magical worlds. To all the years of constantly hoping to reach a point where I am able to spend the rest of my days bringing these stories to life for others on paper and in their minds, the same way they came to life for me—the same way they have given me life all these years. This particular tale is most definitely going to stick with me for a long time.
In this novel, we follow the adventures of a young boy named Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III (Carmer for short) and a one-winged fairy princess of the Seelie realm named Grettifrida (but always call her Grit). Carmer, a magician’s apprentice and aspiring inventor, and Grit, a sassy, flightless fire fairy, are thrown together as a chance meeting evolves into a race to save the entire fae realm—as well as themselves and the city of Skemantis—from a mad scientist.
When fairies begin to go missing, captured by an unknown evil they have named “The Wingsnatchers”, it is up to Carmer and Grit to get to the bottom of the mysterious disappearances. And what is the connection of these odd events to the unexplainable ones simultaneously occurring in the human world? Mixing science with fantasy, real magic with the closest replications that humans can accomplish, this is an enchanting and fast-paced modern fairytale that will leave readers on the edge of their seats, wanting more.
The depiction of the characters—both the main and the side ones—was one of the standout points of the book for me. Every single one of her characters are fleshed out quite well, and even the most minor of characters are memorable. Carmer and Grit have such a lovely friendship, even though they are each struggling through plenty of their own troubles.
Carmer is attempting to take control of his future and leave behind his past as an orphan, and Grit is trying to make others understand that her disability does not define her—that she is as strong and capable as anyone else, despite what people may think. Though they have some extreme—and understandable—differences and find themselves at odds occasionally, once they learn to trust one another, they end up making a brilliant duo.
This is Horwitz’s first novel, but it reads as if she has been writing for decades. Flawlessly executed and incredibly beautiful, her writing is fluid and easy to fall into. It grabs hold of your imagination, your senses, and hangs on long after the final page has been read. Her vibrant descriptions and world-building are solid, showing her talent for weaving her stories into the minds of her readers.
I truly had an enjoyable time using Horwitz’s vivid narrative to put myself into this unique setting. I felt like I was there watching these events unfold right alongside the characters. She also relates this book to our present world by dealing with some themes that are very common in society today. Horwitz handles every aspect of the novel with care, meticulously unfolding an action-packed narrative. This was just such a fun adventure I did not want to pull myself out of it until I ran out of book.
I will reiterate—though I know I don’t have to at this point—that I completely fell head over heels for this novel. And unsurprisingly, I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. It is a beautifully crafted tale of family, friendship, and how two exceedingly dissimilar groups can set their differences aside and team up to fight a threat that affects them all.
Overcoming obstacle after obstacle—even those their own families and sometimes they themselves place in the way—Carmer and Grit unite in a heart-warming friendship that withstands the forces that test it. This is a fantastic beginning to a promising series. Though I don’t quite know how I am going to stand the wait, I am extremely excited to get my hands on any and all future novels.
May 26, 2018
Ugh my mood definitely influenced my enjoyment. I liked the concept and really enjoyed the characters but the plot just couldn't hold my attention. I'll have to reread it
December 18, 2021
It was an very entertaining and engaging audiobook and I liked the plot and how it all went down. However I don't think I'll continue on with the series anytime soon but the book was still very good
May 15, 2018
Super fun middle grade with everything you could ask for really, strong fairies, sweet magician boy and robo cats being controlled by an evil adult. I really enjoyed this book and thing its a great recommendation for any younger readers or older readers looking for some sci-fi fantasy whimsy.
The book was fast and I loved how sweet Carmer was his young character mixed with Grit the fairy princess with one wing who was tough and savy really complimented each other.
The steam punk elements, the magic show, the real magic of fairies and fairy dust, the evil inventor capturing fairies for human comforts and success, It was all so well done, fast plot, spot on writing, and great voice.
The book was fast and I loved how sweet Carmer was his young character mixed with Grit the fairy princess with one wing who was tough and savy really complimented each other.
The steam punk elements, the magic show, the real magic of fairies and fairy dust, the evil inventor capturing fairies for human comforts and success, It was all so well done, fast plot, spot on writing, and great voice.
July 23, 2017
The Wingsnatchers is the first book in the Carmer and Grit series for middle grade readers by Sarah Jean Horwitz. Aspiring inventor and magician’s apprentice Felix Carmer III would rather be tinkering with his latest experiments than sawing girls in half on stage, but with Antoine the Amazifier’s show a tomato’s throw away from going under, Carmer is determined to win the cash prize in the biggest magic competition in Skemantis. When fate throws Carmer across the path of fiery, flightless faerie princess Grit (do not call her Grettifrida), they strike a deal. If Carmer will help Grit investigate a string of faerie disappearances, she’ll use her very real magic to give his mechanical illusions a much-needed boost against the competition. But Carmer and Grit soon discover they’re not the only duo trying to pair magic with machine – and the combination can be deadly.
The Wingsnatchers is a nice start to a series, unfortunately I found that the first couple chapters started off slowly, and some readers might not make it to where Carmer and Grit meet- which is when the story really picks up interest and speed. I liked the premise, and the characters once I got fully involved in the story. I thought Carmer was clever, but in the focused way of inventors and scholars that sometimes miss the obvious. Grit was my favorite character, she has a missing wing, and has lived her life as actively and dangerously as she could. She was occasionally a little bratty- but what do you want from a fairy princess? Sadly some oft he twists I figured out a little sooner than I would have liked, but the ride for Carmer to come to the same realization was entertaining- although he frustrated me often. Some of the secondary characters caught my imagination, and I want more past and future information about some of them. I enjoyed the adventure and the idea of the story, but despite some great moments, I was not blown away by the read.
The Wingsnatchers is a good fantasy novel, but it took awhile to grab my attention. I will admit to picking it up and putting down a few times- but in the end I think that this book will find a large audience that will enjoy it.
The Wingsnatchers is a nice start to a series, unfortunately I found that the first couple chapters started off slowly, and some readers might not make it to where Carmer and Grit meet- which is when the story really picks up interest and speed. I liked the premise, and the characters once I got fully involved in the story. I thought Carmer was clever, but in the focused way of inventors and scholars that sometimes miss the obvious. Grit was my favorite character, she has a missing wing, and has lived her life as actively and dangerously as she could. She was occasionally a little bratty- but what do you want from a fairy princess? Sadly some oft he twists I figured out a little sooner than I would have liked, but the ride for Carmer to come to the same realization was entertaining- although he frustrated me often. Some of the secondary characters caught my imagination, and I want more past and future information about some of them. I enjoyed the adventure and the idea of the story, but despite some great moments, I was not blown away by the read.
The Wingsnatchers is a good fantasy novel, but it took awhile to grab my attention. I will admit to picking it up and putting down a few times- but in the end I think that this book will find a large audience that will enjoy it.
February 21, 2018
I have weird mixed feelings about this book. I love the characters, a shy but brilliant boy talented with automata, and a stubborn reckless fairy princess with one wing and the unwillingness to let it slow her down. The overall story was good as well. The problem for me was that it read a little slow. A fair amount of the tension in the book was caused by Grit only seeing part of what was going on and making overexaggerated leaps of deduction and accusations about what was really going on, which lead her to run off in a huff. That to me is annoying, realistic yes, but I wanted Grit to be better than that. She is young however and hopefully will out grow it. I am looking forward to more in the series.
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December 19, 2017I was so intrigued by the premise of this book. I love fae stories, and I love steampunk novels. Unfortunately, I just could not connect with the characters or plot. I think this author's writing style just wasn't for me personally.
September 25, 2020
The Wingsnatchers, the first in the Carmer and Grit series by Sarah Jean Horwitz, is fast paced, magical, and so much fun! I loved the quick pace and vivid description that caused the story to leap off the pages along with the wonderful characters, especially Carmer and Madame Euphemia and her puppets. Unfortunately, there were times when I didn't care much for Grit, but Carmer easily made up for the defects in Grit's personality. I'm excited to see where the storyline goes next and hoping we may see one of the supporting characters again in order to get some resolution to their story. I think this is one middle grader readers will love! (Sidenote: it does get a bit dark towards the end so I recommend it for older middle grade readers.)
Thanks so much to the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review!
Thanks so much to the publisher for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review!
April 17, 2019
Carmer is a magician's apprentice (the sleight of hand variety) and a dabbler in invention, so he has trouble believing his eyes when he meets a one-winged fairy named Grit. Mechanical cats are on the prowl. Fairies are disappearing throughout the city. Magicians (again, the entertaining variety) are in town, having come from all quarters for a competition. Stage names and seelie courts. Puppeteers and flower petal dresses. Top hats and train tricks.
Gorgeous world-building and a quick pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seat. Just the right blend of magic and invention. I'll be adding the full set of this story to my home shelf. Excellent!
Gorgeous world-building and a quick pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seat. Just the right blend of magic and invention. I'll be adding the full set of this story to my home shelf. Excellent!
July 22, 2020
Overall, this fantastical tale of magic, fairies, and evil inventors attempting to enslave fairies makes for fun reading. The pace is quick, and filled with humor and sympathetic characters. I particularly like Grit as a character - she's certainly a hot-tempered princess and rebelling against the constraints of her position. I can see fans of young adult fantasy really enjoying this book, and other in the series it's likely to be.
December 10, 2018
The book “ Cramer and Grit” by Sarah Jean Horwitz is a really good book. Out of all the books I read this month this book would be the best. If you love books about adventure I would recommend this book to you. I also think this book is different than the other books I read because I never read a book about magic and so far I like this book.
March 21, 2017
Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III is a magician's apprentice and aspiring inventor. He travels with Antoine the Amazifier around a rural circuit but their show is not doing well. They are one rotten tomato from going under! A contest in Skemantis city could save their act and Skemantis just happens to be hosting an engineering exhibition that Carmer really wants to see as well. The Magician and his apprentice pack up their box of tricks and head for the city.
Grettifrida is a fairy with one wing and a hatred of her name, call her Grit please! Grit lives in Oldtown Arboretum in Skemantis. She is an impossible being; the only fairy born with one wing. Grit dreams of being outside the walls of the Arboretum and exploring the world. She frequently sneaks outside the walls to explore the city.
Carmer and Grit meet by chance in the city and that one meeting will change both of their lives. Carmer and the Amazifier are going to lose the magic contest their competition has a huge advantage. Grit's people are being attacked and carried off by something in the night. Can Carmer & Grit work together to solve both of their problems?
Carmer is a flawed child who tries hard. He has trouble saying what he means, he feels like his mouth betrays him sometimes. He has eloquent responses in mind but stutters out the exact opposite of what he wants to say. He is not a great magician's apprentice, he messes up and makes mistakes.
Grit is a sheltered child who wants to see more of the world. Her mother wants to keep her safe and close but doesn't realize that she is stifling her daughter's growth. Grit is headstrong and gets angry really easily.
I adored this book. I could barely put it down. The story is fascinating and the characters are intriguing. Carmer and Grit both have flaws and strengths. They have disagreements and problems that they have to work through. Neither one would be able to solve their problems alone.
This book has a bit of a steampunk fantasy feel to it, automatons and fairies existing side by side. If you like Howl's Moving Castle you will like this book. I highly recommend this. I will be over here in my little corner waiting for a sequel!
I received an advance copy free for review purposes. This review is my personal opinion and is in no way influenced by the publisher, author or any third party.
Grettifrida is a fairy with one wing and a hatred of her name, call her Grit please! Grit lives in Oldtown Arboretum in Skemantis. She is an impossible being; the only fairy born with one wing. Grit dreams of being outside the walls of the Arboretum and exploring the world. She frequently sneaks outside the walls to explore the city.
Carmer and Grit meet by chance in the city and that one meeting will change both of their lives. Carmer and the Amazifier are going to lose the magic contest their competition has a huge advantage. Grit's people are being attacked and carried off by something in the night. Can Carmer & Grit work together to solve both of their problems?
Carmer is a flawed child who tries hard. He has trouble saying what he means, he feels like his mouth betrays him sometimes. He has eloquent responses in mind but stutters out the exact opposite of what he wants to say. He is not a great magician's apprentice, he messes up and makes mistakes.
Grit is a sheltered child who wants to see more of the world. Her mother wants to keep her safe and close but doesn't realize that she is stifling her daughter's growth. Grit is headstrong and gets angry really easily.
I adored this book. I could barely put it down. The story is fascinating and the characters are intriguing. Carmer and Grit both have flaws and strengths. They have disagreements and problems that they have to work through. Neither one would be able to solve their problems alone.
This book has a bit of a steampunk fantasy feel to it, automatons and fairies existing side by side. If you like Howl's Moving Castle you will like this book. I highly recommend this. I will be over here in my little corner waiting for a sequel!
I received an advance copy free for review purposes. This review is my personal opinion and is in no way influenced by the publisher, author or any third party.
March 6, 2018
Listened to audiobook. The actual audio was fine; I liked the narrator at first, but a lot of her characters sounded the same after a while to me.
This book was just ehh. It had a great premise and an interesting plot, but I wasn't invested in the characters and I really couldn't stand some. Mediocre characters can really bring a story down, and I feel like that was the case here. It felt like really only two characters were well thought out; Carmer and Grit. Carmer is a precious cinnamon bun that needs to be protected from the world because his character arc only. went. down. He didn't have highs and lows. He sank deeper and deeper into the depths of hell and I felt so bad for him.
Grit, on the other hand, was a spoiled brat and was entirely selfish in all her actions, in my eyes. I did NOT like her at all. She is honestly such a spoiled princess but doesn't want anyone to treat her like she's a princess, but also treat her like a princess how dare you. I feel like she learned something by the end, but it was all negated
Plot was solid until the end. I feel like the last disc (8/8) was horrifically rushed. We don't learn aNYthINg about how Gideon became a friend of the fae??!??!?!??!?!?!?!? And how did Carmer make up with Kitty and the Amazifier?????????? I mean, last he spoke to them, it was real f*cking bad (sorry kids reading this), like he was scum to them and then all of a sudden he gets the Amazifier's car/home/trailer thing? UHHH okay.
I can see how this might set up the consecutive books, but I was so bored by the middle of the book, I didn't even want to listen to it. I chose the car radio over the audiobook (which I hate radio so it says a lot).
I guess if you know a 10-13 year old who likes steampunk, magic shows, and don't focus too much on characters, it's perfect?
This book was just ehh. It had a great premise and an interesting plot, but I wasn't invested in the characters and I really couldn't stand some. Mediocre characters can really bring a story down, and I feel like that was the case here. It felt like really only two characters were well thought out; Carmer and Grit. Carmer is a precious cinnamon bun that needs to be protected from the world because his character arc only. went. down. He didn't have highs and lows. He sank deeper and deeper into the depths of hell and I felt so bad for him.
Grit, on the other hand, was a spoiled brat and was entirely selfish in all her actions, in my eyes. I did NOT like her at all. She is honestly such a spoiled princess but doesn't want anyone to treat her like she's a princess, but also treat her like a princess how dare you. I feel like she learned something by the end, but it was all negated
Plot was solid until the end. I feel like the last disc (8/8) was horrifically rushed. We don't learn aNYthINg about how Gideon became a friend of the fae??!??!?!??!?!?!?!? And how did Carmer make up with Kitty and the Amazifier?????????? I mean, last he spoke to them, it was real f*cking bad (sorry kids reading this), like he was scum to them and then all of a sudden he gets the Amazifier's car/home/trailer thing? UHHH okay.
I can see how this might set up the consecutive books, but I was so bored by the middle of the book, I didn't even want to listen to it. I chose the car radio over the audiobook (which I hate radio so it says a lot).
I guess if you know a 10-13 year old who likes steampunk, magic shows, and don't focus too much on characters, it's perfect?
March 14, 2018
This is a fabulous read, a story about an uncertain and slightly clumsy boy who loves all things engineered and invented, truly an inventor at heart; and a rebellious fairy princess who wants nothing more than to escape her stifling royal life and have adventures in the outside world. In a world of magic tricks that could be real through either engineering or magic, Carmer and Grit (boy and fairy, respectively) must partner to save his magician employer’s work and her royal subjects’ lives. A fun and magical steampunk tale.
February 14, 2017
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC of Carmer and Grit, and my 10 year old and I both read it. We loved it! The adventure is original, the fairies have bite, and the interplay between traditional stage magic, fairy magic, and industry is very well done. My son has got everyone in his book group excited to read this book when it comes out.
December 4, 2016
Such a fun book. THE WINGSNATCHERS #1 is a charming adventure fantasy with two great main characters - Carmer, a well intentioned magician's apprentice and inventor, and Grit, a fiercely independent faerie princess. Full of humor, heart, and tons of action, THE WINGSNATCHERS pulls you into its fully rendered steampunk environment full of magic, fairy dust, masked villains, and truly frightening automated cats and doesn't let you go. A great mix of magic, fantasy, and science, THE WINGSNATCHERS series is sure to be a favorite among fantasy and steampunk lovers - young and old.
May 5, 2017
This is a fantasy about a young boy and a one winged fairy. Carmer, the boy, is a member of a magic troop going to a competition against others in the field. The fairies can offer extra power to their magical tricks. There are villainous robot cats that are terrors in this world. This is the first part in a trilogy geared to a young adult audience and I think it will be very popular. A rising star in this genre.
October 1, 2018
Grit thinks her mother is just overprotective since she only has one wing and is the princess of the Seelies. But what she doesn't realize and is soon to find out is that fairies have been disappearing, and no one knows why. Grit runs into the how, though, nasty autocats. And she only escapes with the help of magician's apprentice, Carmer. Carmer did not have help a fairy back to the Arboretum on his to-do list that day. In fact, he's got to run to the theater and help with Antoine the Amazifier's act or his master will be out of the competition and Carmer will be out of a home. Grit protests the waste of time until the final act comes on, the Mechanist. His act is amazing, in fact, it is too amazing and Grit suddenly changes her mind about going home because the Mechanist was using fairy magic. Is he behind the disappearance of the fairies? And how can a fairy with one wing and a lowly magician's apprentice solve the mystery and help a washed out magician win a magic show?
This was an interesting mix of fairies and steampunk in a reimagined turn of the century New England. Grit is a spunky fairy with a little bit of a chip on her shoulder that she needs to get over. Carmer is a smart boy who likes to tinker, but feels rather incompetent when it comes to communicating. The two friends end up being good for each other. The bad guy and his apprentice in this have complicated motivations for what they're doing. I really liked the Amazifier and wished we could have gotten to know him more, and also the odd little old woman, Madame Euphemia with her special puppets. They were rather interesting side characters. Who knows, maybe they show up more in book two? I think this is going to be one of those niche favorites. It won't be wildly popular, but it should have a small, steady following. Hand this one to middle grade readers who like steampunk, fairy stories, mysteries, or mixes of historical fiction and fantasy.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. One mauled fairy appears at the beginning, which isn't bloody just psychologically traumatizing. One person meets a nasty end with vines taking over their body and even growing through them (this just gets a brief mention). The wild hunt shows up at the end in all their freakiness (skeletal riders of a train in this one).
This was an interesting mix of fairies and steampunk in a reimagined turn of the century New England. Grit is a spunky fairy with a little bit of a chip on her shoulder that she needs to get over. Carmer is a smart boy who likes to tinker, but feels rather incompetent when it comes to communicating. The two friends end up being good for each other. The bad guy and his apprentice in this have complicated motivations for what they're doing. I really liked the Amazifier and wished we could have gotten to know him more, and also the odd little old woman, Madame Euphemia with her special puppets. They were rather interesting side characters. Who knows, maybe they show up more in book two? I think this is going to be one of those niche favorites. It won't be wildly popular, but it should have a small, steady following. Hand this one to middle grade readers who like steampunk, fairy stories, mysteries, or mixes of historical fiction and fantasy.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. One mauled fairy appears at the beginning, which isn't bloody just psychologically traumatizing. One person meets a nasty end with vines taking over their body and even growing through them (this just gets a brief mention). The wild hunt shows up at the end in all their freakiness (skeletal riders of a train in this one).
July 31, 2020
The Wingsnatchers by Sarah Jean Horwitz is a middlegrade historical fantasy about a magician’s apprentice and a one-winged fairy.
This book was a lot of fun! Carmer the apprentice and Grit the fairy were unlikely friends who went traipsing around the city trying to find the maker of the automaton cats that were kidnapping fairies. What could anyone want with a bunch of tiny fairies anyway?
There was magic in this book — the fake, but enchanting illusions made by magicians and the real magic produced by the fairies’ pixie dust. Carmer was in the city to help the magician he was apprenticed to participate in the top magic competition in the country. Their magic tricks were fun to read about, taking me back to all the magic shows I’ve seen in my life.
The fairy magic was different, and most of the plot revolved around it because that was what the mysterious enemy wanted. It was real magic, capable of many things that a power-hungry madman, or even a philanthropist, would want. It, also, was enjoyable to read about because of the magical fey world. Grit with her hat pin sword, and her home made of a magical tree simultaneously in two realms at once. The world building of the fae world (and the human one) was well-done and well-researched.
The book was really interesting, and I was curious to find out who the evil mastermind was and what he was planning. The one thing I didn’t like about the book was some of the stuff near the end. Someone died horrifically, and another was carted off to a terrible fate with the human-hating fae. Perhaps the characters deserved it. But was that really necessary to put in a middlegrade book? Or for the plot at all? I don’t think so on either account. Perhaps, as far as the plot goes, it’s building into the second book, which I haven’t read yet?
On this whole, I enjoyed the book. It really was attention-grabbing and intriguing.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for sharing them.
This book was a lot of fun! Carmer the apprentice and Grit the fairy were unlikely friends who went traipsing around the city trying to find the maker of the automaton cats that were kidnapping fairies. What could anyone want with a bunch of tiny fairies anyway?
There was magic in this book — the fake, but enchanting illusions made by magicians and the real magic produced by the fairies’ pixie dust. Carmer was in the city to help the magician he was apprenticed to participate in the top magic competition in the country. Their magic tricks were fun to read about, taking me back to all the magic shows I’ve seen in my life.
The fairy magic was different, and most of the plot revolved around it because that was what the mysterious enemy wanted. It was real magic, capable of many things that a power-hungry madman, or even a philanthropist, would want. It, also, was enjoyable to read about because of the magical fey world. Grit with her hat pin sword, and her home made of a magical tree simultaneously in two realms at once. The world building of the fae world (and the human one) was well-done and well-researched.
The book was really interesting, and I was curious to find out who the evil mastermind was and what he was planning. The one thing I didn’t like about the book was some of the stuff near the end. Someone died horrifically, and another was carted off to a terrible fate with the human-hating fae. Perhaps the characters deserved it. But was that really necessary to put in a middlegrade book? Or for the plot at all? I don’t think so on either account. Perhaps, as far as the plot goes, it’s building into the second book, which I haven’t read yet?
On this whole, I enjoyed the book. It really was attention-grabbing and intriguing.
I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for sharing them.
June 8, 2018
I really wanted to like this book, everything was here to have an entertaining story (according to my own expectations): clever magicians, great inventions and well developped fairy culture. Even the cover was stunning. But in the end, it was a book with 350 pages of disappointment.
I never really succeeded to go into the story and I never got attached to any characters. The two main characters lack of a "little something" and were even pretty irritating most of the time. Carmer, the young magician, had ridiculous reactions multiple times and made things worst while they could have been easily solved with a little of common sense. Grit, the little fairy, is so paranoid and drama queen that her few good moments are tainted by her childish personnality.
Regarding the big villain of the story, the idea was not bad but so predictable. At the first appearance of the character's secret identity, it's pretty obvious who it is. I even told myself "it cannot be, it's TOO obvious, it's a false information just to surprise us after". Well, no, there is no surprise, all his actions are planned in advance and things supposed to be revelations are just boring because we expect it to be told since chapters and chapters. Thank God it was not a thriller with a "secret" murdered.
The action of the book itself is predictable. Since the beginning, we can easily guess what will happen in the outlines. Some little side actions bring a little refreshing touch but it's clearly not enough to keep me entertained (ironicaly said when half of the characters in the book are entertainers). I also had the impression to double back during the whole story, going from one place to another, going back, leaving for the same place again, coming back again.
I would have been glad to buy the second volume, to complete the series on my bookshelf but a pretty cover isn't enough for me to be so bored once again.
I never really succeeded to go into the story and I never got attached to any characters. The two main characters lack of a "little something" and were even pretty irritating most of the time. Carmer, the young magician, had ridiculous reactions multiple times and made things worst while they could have been easily solved with a little of common sense. Grit, the little fairy, is so paranoid and drama queen that her few good moments are tainted by her childish personnality.
Regarding the big villain of the story, the idea was not bad but so predictable. At the first appearance of the character's secret identity, it's pretty obvious who it is. I even told myself "it cannot be, it's TOO obvious, it's a false information just to surprise us after". Well, no, there is no surprise, all his actions are planned in advance and things supposed to be revelations are just boring because we expect it to be told since chapters and chapters. Thank God it was not a thriller with a "secret" murdered.
The action of the book itself is predictable. Since the beginning, we can easily guess what will happen in the outlines. Some little side actions bring a little refreshing touch but it's clearly not enough to keep me entertained (ironicaly said when half of the characters in the book are entertainers). I also had the impression to double back during the whole story, going from one place to another, going back, leaving for the same place again, coming back again.
I would have been glad to buy the second volume, to complete the series on my bookshelf but a pretty cover isn't enough for me to be so bored once again.
September 14, 2018
Why this book isn’t more well-known I have no idea. I rather enjoyed it. It combines steampunk and fairies. How unique is that? Too many books competing I guess.
Carmer III is a mechanical tinkerer and magician’s apprentice working the rural circuit. When he learns that a magic competition is happening in the highly automated city of Skemantis, he convinces The Amazifier to enter the competition. The fact that automaton genius Titus Archer is going to be there is icing on the cake for Carmer.
Grit is a royal fairy with only one wing. She’s a little bit of a rebel and likes to leave her protected arboretum on the border of Skemantis to mingle with the street fairies. On her latest excursion, she witnesses a damaged fairy, nearly dead. Wingsnatchers are after the fairies.
Carmer and Grits’s paths cross when Grit mistakes Carmer for a friend of the fairies. He’s not a friend of the fairies. He, like everyone else, didn’t realize fairies exist. Since she’s blown her fairy cover, she elicits Carmer’s help in stopping the Wingsnatchers. It doesn’t take Carmer long to discover that the impressive illusionist, The Mechanist, and his idol, Titus Archer, are one and the same. He’s hatched a bizarre plan to harness fairy magic for clean energy. As you can imagine, the fairies have not signed on for this.
This book is full of action, adventure, and narrow escapes. The plot follows the common format of evil person being chased down and stopped by good person. It’s a hero/villain story with fairies thrown in for a nice change up. I especially like the idea of street fairies and I would have liked a little more of them in the story. Cover is beautiful by the way. A little on the long side.
Carmer III is a mechanical tinkerer and magician’s apprentice working the rural circuit. When he learns that a magic competition is happening in the highly automated city of Skemantis, he convinces The Amazifier to enter the competition. The fact that automaton genius Titus Archer is going to be there is icing on the cake for Carmer.
Grit is a royal fairy with only one wing. She’s a little bit of a rebel and likes to leave her protected arboretum on the border of Skemantis to mingle with the street fairies. On her latest excursion, she witnesses a damaged fairy, nearly dead. Wingsnatchers are after the fairies.
Carmer and Grits’s paths cross when Grit mistakes Carmer for a friend of the fairies. He’s not a friend of the fairies. He, like everyone else, didn’t realize fairies exist. Since she’s blown her fairy cover, she elicits Carmer’s help in stopping the Wingsnatchers. It doesn’t take Carmer long to discover that the impressive illusionist, The Mechanist, and his idol, Titus Archer, are one and the same. He’s hatched a bizarre plan to harness fairy magic for clean energy. As you can imagine, the fairies have not signed on for this.
This book is full of action, adventure, and narrow escapes. The plot follows the common format of evil person being chased down and stopped by good person. It’s a hero/villain story with fairies thrown in for a nice change up. I especially like the idea of street fairies and I would have liked a little more of them in the story. Cover is beautiful by the way. A little on the long side.
August 11, 2017
CARMER and GRIT will bring you into a world of magic and faeries. It’s a great story for fans who like books like Harry Potter and the Spiderwick Chronicles. Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III is an orphan, inventor, and apprentice to the magician Antoine the Amazifier. The Amazifier’s shows are getting old, and fans are losing interest in his magic. Carmer, the Amazifier, and his assistant Kitty Delphine decide to travel to the town of Skemantis for a big magic symposium / convention to bring them some hope.
Meanwhile, Grit (aka Princess Grettifrida), a one-winged faerie, is bored with life in the Aboretum and wants to explore the outside world. Fate brings Carmer and Grit together, where they must solve the mysteries of who’s behind the disappearing faeries, the attacking, scary automaton cats, and what is powering the Mechanist’s (the star magician of the convention) illusions. Carmer agrees to help Grit try to investigate the missing faeries, and she will help him with the magic competition. Carmer and Grit will bring you through their exciting and dangerous journey as they try to help each other and save the faeries. The adventure will make you believe in the magic and power of faeries!
This is a great debut novel from Sarah Jean Horowitz. You can’t help but fall in love with Carmer, and admire the strength and determination of Grit! Readers of all ages will enjoy this magical journey!
Meanwhile, Grit (aka Princess Grettifrida), a one-winged faerie, is bored with life in the Aboretum and wants to explore the outside world. Fate brings Carmer and Grit together, where they must solve the mysteries of who’s behind the disappearing faeries, the attacking, scary automaton cats, and what is powering the Mechanist’s (the star magician of the convention) illusions. Carmer agrees to help Grit try to investigate the missing faeries, and she will help him with the magic competition. Carmer and Grit will bring you through their exciting and dangerous journey as they try to help each other and save the faeries. The adventure will make you believe in the magic and power of faeries!
This is a great debut novel from Sarah Jean Horowitz. You can’t help but fall in love with Carmer, and admire the strength and determination of Grit! Readers of all ages will enjoy this magical journey!
November 4, 2017
Horwitz, Sarah Jean The Wingsnatchers (Carmer and Grit #1) 360 pgs, Algonquin Young Readers, $17.95, Language:G(0 swears, 0 “F”); Mature Content: G; Violence: G/PG;
Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III is a magician's apprentice who is fascinated with mechanics. The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities for a young machinist in Skemantian (the steampunk capital of the world). When Carmer, his fellow assistant, and his master travel there, Carmer gets mixed up with the faerie princess Grit. Together they start investigating the disappearance of the Fae and work to help the Amazifier, Carmer’s master. Soon they realize the the problem is much bigger than they had previously believed.
This book was very entertaining and fun to read. It was especially fun to read about the fictional steampunk era of time and about two young heroes. Violence is G/PG because there is some fighting between the Fae and the villain, but not a ton of gore.
EL, MS - ESSENTIAL Student Reviewer: JM (9th grade)
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017...
Felix Cassius Tiberius Carmer III is a magician's apprentice who is fascinated with mechanics. The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities for a young machinist in Skemantian (the steampunk capital of the world). When Carmer, his fellow assistant, and his master travel there, Carmer gets mixed up with the faerie princess Grit. Together they start investigating the disappearance of the Fae and work to help the Amazifier, Carmer’s master. Soon they realize the the problem is much bigger than they had previously believed.
This book was very entertaining and fun to read. It was especially fun to read about the fictional steampunk era of time and about two young heroes. Violence is G/PG because there is some fighting between the Fae and the villain, but not a ton of gore.
EL, MS - ESSENTIAL Student Reviewer: JM (9th grade)
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017...
January 16, 2018
One of the more inventive and unusual works of fiction I've read lately, the first volume of The Wingsnatchers manages to craft not just one, but three unique worlds. The city of Skemantis, brought to life as a growing center of industry and innovation, the traveling world of magicians, and the world of the faerie all turn independently within the book, crossing orbits, interacting and influencing one another. All three communities are meticulously detailed and the information rationing that takes place at the outset makes the reader feel as though she has ventured into a foreign land and must learn to make her way. This is not a beach read--the book has a density to it that made me wonder how it will be received by its target audience. It feels rather heavy in description for middle grades and a little young in story for the YA set. And yet, each time I wished the author had eliminated a particular branch of the story to lighten the book, I inevitably found myself glad that it had been included for the depth it later added. This is a book for those who appreciate the novel and the imaginative. It is rich and full of detail--and not just a little magical.
February 3, 2018
Okay so a quick run down of the story. You could call this a synopsis but that's so like a teacher. Carmer is a magician's apprentice. He's happier inventing or tinkering in his part of the "Moto-Manse" which is basically a RV. The magic show is almost out of money so they enter in a magic competition in Skemantis, the big city also home of Titan Industries, which works out well for Carmer who wants to see Titan Industries in person. Once he gets there by a twist of fate he meets Grit. In the beginning all Grit wants is to get home after being abandoned by the Free Folk or street fae after telling them that one fae's wing would have to be cut off and accidentally getting them lock out of the Sealie kingdom. After they are brought together, Grit and Carmer realize they are facing the same thing, The Mechanist.
So I found this a refreshing change from having to save the entire world. It was also very interesting and fun to read. You will laugh, scream, maybe cry and throw the book. It was simply PRODIGIOUS.
So I found this a refreshing change from having to save the entire world. It was also very interesting and fun to read. You will laugh, scream, maybe cry and throw the book. It was simply PRODIGIOUS.
November 5, 2017
*I received this book through @kidlitexchange and all opinions are my own*Sarah Jean Horwitz shows great promise through this first book. I was intrigued by it based on it's Steampunk flavor. I'm fascinated by Steampunk culture and Ms. Horwitz does a wonderful job of putting it into words. I'll admit it took me awhile to get into the story and stopped and started several times as it's geared toward upper elementary age. Any young girl that loves faeries will enjoy this book. If you were a fan of The Spiderwick Chronicles then I urge you to give this one a read. I look forward to the next installment.
November 16, 2019
3.5 stars to be exact.
I loved the plot and it was very interesting. Sadly, throughout most parts of the book, I just felt like closing my eyes and sleeping which really prevented me from fully enjoying the book’s plot in which I originally felt interested in and liked. Probably it was the writing style? Or the fact that it was slow paced and that some parts were irrelevant? I wasn’t sure but all I remembered was liking the plot but got bored in the first few chapters. Then I was interested again but when I got into the middle part, I basically had to force my eyes open. This just goes on and on. It was really such a shame especially when I felt like this book had potential to become really interesting.
I loved the plot and it was very interesting. Sadly, throughout most parts of the book, I just felt like closing my eyes and sleeping which really prevented me from fully enjoying the book’s plot in which I originally felt interested in and liked. Probably it was the writing style? Or the fact that it was slow paced and that some parts were irrelevant? I wasn’t sure but all I remembered was liking the plot but got bored in the first few chapters. Then I was interested again but when I got into the middle part, I basically had to force my eyes open. This just goes on and on. It was really such a shame especially when I felt like this book had potential to become really interesting.
December 10, 2017
The beginning was a bit rough and I almost gave it up, but I persevered and ended up enjoying it.
Carmer is an orphan, apprenticed to a quirky magician. He loves technology and building automatons. A chance encounter leads him to Grit, a feisty young fairy princess with only one wing, but she never lets that hold her back.
Carmer and Grit join forces to figure out who is kidnapping fairies and using their wings. It's quick moving and, honestly, it's refreshing to just read a fun story without lots of romantic drama. Carmer and Grit are both extremely likable and have great chemistry.
I don't know if I'd read more in the series, but this was a fun romp.
Carmer is an orphan, apprenticed to a quirky magician. He loves technology and building automatons. A chance encounter leads him to Grit, a feisty young fairy princess with only one wing, but she never lets that hold her back.
Carmer and Grit join forces to figure out who is kidnapping fairies and using their wings. It's quick moving and, honestly, it's refreshing to just read a fun story without lots of romantic drama. Carmer and Grit are both extremely likable and have great chemistry.
I don't know if I'd read more in the series, but this was a fun romp.
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