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Shadows of Winterspell
Stella has been living behind the magic of the forest for most of her life. Lonely, she enrolls at the local school, and as she begins to make friends, she discovers that she is even more different than she thought. But as autumn turns to magical winter, Stella realizes that uncovering her own family secret is the only way to release the forest from the grip of a dark and old magic.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 17, 2019
21 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
Amy Wilson
9 books103 followersAmy Wilson has a background in journalism and lives in Bristol with her young family. She is a graduate of the Bath Spa MA in Creative Writing and has many owls in her house, from drawer handles to cushions. She is still waiting for them to speak to her...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
February 16, 2020
Unfortunately, I didn't love this as much as I wanted to, but it's still a really solid book with some great moments.
It wasn't exactly what I was expecting going into it (I expected a normal girl who discovers magic and got a girl who already knows about magic and wants to escape it), but it had a solid sense of self-discovery with some real, and I mean real, moments. It shows the suffering of the children in a way that children reading it will be able to understand and relate to, and I loved it for that.
Regrettably, I didn't connect with this story or the characters much and found myself a little underwhelmed with the plot. It was easily 'put-downable' for me.
I do, however, believe that this has some great messages about friendship and understanding each other that children can take away from this, and do recommend for the younger readers.
It wasn't exactly what I was expecting going into it (I expected a normal girl who discovers magic and got a girl who already knows about magic and wants to escape it), but it had a solid sense of self-discovery with some real, and I mean real, moments. It shows the suffering of the children in a way that children reading it will be able to understand and relate to, and I loved it for that.
Regrettably, I didn't connect with this story or the characters much and found myself a little underwhelmed with the plot. It was easily 'put-downable' for me.
I do, however, believe that this has some great messages about friendship and understanding each other that children can take away from this, and do recommend for the younger readers.
January 11, 2020
Probably a great read for readers of the right age, but not so much for me because I'm old :)
December 22, 2019
Loved every little bit of this magical book. Each word and each letter are filled with magic and that magic is somehow transported to your fingers and you just can't stop flipping those pages.
Stella is a 12 year old girl who lives with her Nan. They live at the egde of Winterspell forest where the Dark King rules. Stella knows that she's different, magical, and she just wants to be normal. She starts going to school but eager desire to be normal led her to questioning herself and her abilities and eventualy leading her to loving herself for herself, and nothing else.
The writting is very easy to read and follow and it's filled with lovely subtle descriptions. Again, both grown ups and children will benefit from this powerfull story about loving yourself, bravery, friendship and so much more.
This is another MG read of mine in last few days and I can say that my soul is enjoying like a little pig in a mud 🐷
Stella is a 12 year old girl who lives with her Nan. They live at the egde of Winterspell forest where the Dark King rules. Stella knows that she's different, magical, and she just wants to be normal. She starts going to school but eager desire to be normal led her to questioning herself and her abilities and eventualy leading her to loving herself for herself, and nothing else.
The writting is very easy to read and follow and it's filled with lovely subtle descriptions. Again, both grown ups and children will benefit from this powerfull story about loving yourself, bravery, friendship and so much more.
This is another MG read of mine in last few days and I can say that my soul is enjoying like a little pig in a mud 🐷
December 19, 2019
A very cute and winters children’s book that I throughly enjoyed.
Here we meet Stella, a young girl learning magic and yearning for friends. When she finally decides to venture outside, adventure more or less bulldozes it’s way into her life.
The characters were all lovable and written as more than plot fillers and you actually saw multiple sides to each character good and bad.
The plot was fast paced and though obvious was no less fun to read.
This was a fun and fast magical adventure that I think would delight readers of any age.
Here we meet Stella, a young girl learning magic and yearning for friends. When she finally decides to venture outside, adventure more or less bulldozes it’s way into her life.
The characters were all lovable and written as more than plot fillers and you actually saw multiple sides to each character good and bad.
The plot was fast paced and though obvious was no less fun to read.
This was a fun and fast magical adventure that I think would delight readers of any age.
February 28, 2020
10th book of 2020 (134th book overall)
Quote from the Book I Liked - 'One piece of deception leads to another and if you lose yourself halfway, the whole thing sort of collapse.' (Page no. 173)
Rating - 3 Stars
Plot Summary - Stella has been living behind the magic of the forest for most of her life. Lonely, she enrols at the local school, and as she begins to make friends, she discovers that she is even more different than she thought. But as autumn turns to magical winter, Stella realizes that uncovering her own family secret is the only way to release the forest from the grip of the dark and old magic.
My Review - A girl staying in a magically guarded home from her childhood up until she turns 12 with her Ghost grandmother and an imp. She wishes to be more and yearn for human touch and human presence in her life. She thinks there's more to her life than just being in this home. What does she do? She quitely plans and escapes from her home to the nearby town to get herself enrolled in the School. A normal school. But there too there are some discrepancies to her Normal. Is she a Human? or a Fae? or both? How does she actually look like? Is the forest really dark and the shadow creatures that haunting that they would swallow the complete Winterspell?
What can she do to save it with the secret that only she know? All these questions make up the book an interesting read for younger audiences. Though for me, s an adult the story seemed bit normal and nothing fancy but for a young reader, it may teach a lot of the hidden messages the book delivers. The best part of the book seemed a different perspective which makes the base of the book that is, that the poignant is a magical creature and she gets introduced to the human world for the first time. Usually, the book is written in the opposite way, where humans are introduced to the magical world. Thus, the book makes an interesting choice for young readers who would love the Fantasy and Magical filled story that this book is.
Conclusion - Good for a particular age of the audience.
Full Review on Blog.
Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker
Quote from the Book I Liked - 'One piece of deception leads to another and if you lose yourself halfway, the whole thing sort of collapse.' (Page no. 173)
Rating - 3 Stars
Plot Summary - Stella has been living behind the magic of the forest for most of her life. Lonely, she enrols at the local school, and as she begins to make friends, she discovers that she is even more different than she thought. But as autumn turns to magical winter, Stella realizes that uncovering her own family secret is the only way to release the forest from the grip of the dark and old magic.
My Review - A girl staying in a magically guarded home from her childhood up until she turns 12 with her Ghost grandmother and an imp. She wishes to be more and yearn for human touch and human presence in her life. She thinks there's more to her life than just being in this home. What does she do? She quitely plans and escapes from her home to the nearby town to get herself enrolled in the School. A normal school. But there too there are some discrepancies to her Normal. Is she a Human? or a Fae? or both? How does she actually look like? Is the forest really dark and the shadow creatures that haunting that they would swallow the complete Winterspell?
What can she do to save it with the secret that only she know? All these questions make up the book an interesting read for younger audiences. Though for me, s an adult the story seemed bit normal and nothing fancy but for a young reader, it may teach a lot of the hidden messages the book delivers. The best part of the book seemed a different perspective which makes the base of the book that is, that the poignant is a magical creature and she gets introduced to the human world for the first time. Usually, the book is written in the opposite way, where humans are introduced to the magical world. Thus, the book makes an interesting choice for young readers who would love the Fantasy and Magical filled story that this book is.
Conclusion - Good for a particular age of the audience.
Full Review on Blog.
Link to Blog - The Tales of Fugitive Biker
January 11, 2022
Que c'était bon et beau cette lecture ! Je souhaite tellement qu'il soit traduit en français pour ceux et celles qui ne lisent pas en anglais. Un vrai petit bijou, rien de moins ❤
January 5, 2020
This was such a magical and thoroughly enjoyable read. Not quite as wintery as I expected it to be but I loved it nonetheless. Stories about magic, friendship and family will always hold a very special place in my heart.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
April 18, 2020
'Shadows of Winterspell' brings us a promising tale of hope and the fight against darkness with an arcane shadow king, a chosen one, a band of mismatched friends and a forest that is thick with secrets.
.
Stella is forbidden to leave her house and the forest by her grandmother, who happens to be a ghost. Spells and magic keeps her safe from a mysterious shadow king, the fairy world and the human civilization. But Stella wants to go to scholl, just like any other child who is always curious to know what lies beyond the forbidden.
As Stella makes new friends, she learns more about these communities she was being protected from, eventually coming together to fight against The Shadow King.
.
As much as I enjoyed reading about Stella, odd and curious, I felt that the author hesitated in giving her the adventure of a lifetime. Halfway through the book, the scenes start to get sloppy and the action is masked by meaningless chatter. Even as a Middle Grade fantasy, this story had potential. The world building is intelligible, the characters are lively and witty and the plot has an exciting concept.
.
Stella is forbidden to leave her house and the forest by her grandmother, who happens to be a ghost. Spells and magic keeps her safe from a mysterious shadow king, the fairy world and the human civilization. But Stella wants to go to scholl, just like any other child who is always curious to know what lies beyond the forbidden.
As Stella makes new friends, she learns more about these communities she was being protected from, eventually coming together to fight against The Shadow King.
.
As much as I enjoyed reading about Stella, odd and curious, I felt that the author hesitated in giving her the adventure of a lifetime. Halfway through the book, the scenes start to get sloppy and the action is masked by meaningless chatter. Even as a Middle Grade fantasy, this story had potential. The world building is intelligible, the characters are lively and witty and the plot has an exciting concept.
December 27, 2021
A perfect winter read for me. Magical, female independence, friendship, adventure, a search for identity... It has it all!
Stella has been brought up by her grandmother because her mother died from the plaga and her father haunts the forest of Winterspell because of his grief and loss. His shadows now endager the lifes of fae and magical creatures living in Winterspell.
Her grandmother is keeping her extremely safe inside their little cottage, just on the outside of the now dangerous forest.
Stella learns about her magical history and spells to protect her life and house.
A little catch, Stella's grandmother is a ghost, brought back to the living in order to take care of Stella, just as her mother wanted.
But Stella soon gets tired of her protective environment and wants to explore the human world. Behind her grandmother's back, she enrolls in the local school in search of human contact and learning more about the world. On her first day she meets Yanny and Zara who quickly become her best friends. But Stella carries the secret of her magic with her and it's hard for her to hide. Although, soon she discovers Yanny also has his secrets and the three of them are bound to go on the adventure of their lives to save Winterspell.
Eventhough this is a book written for middle graders, I absolutely enjoyed it myself. The language is very clear, the characters all bring importance to the story and Stella's feelings are clearly depicted for everyone to understand. Even bigger metaphores like depression, the environmental and identity crises are writtend down beautifully. In short, I recomend this book to everyone who loves to read about magical, fantastical creatures in a cozy and wintery setting.
Stella has been brought up by her grandmother because her mother died from the plaga and her father haunts the forest of Winterspell because of his grief and loss. His shadows now endager the lifes of fae and magical creatures living in Winterspell.
Her grandmother is keeping her extremely safe inside their little cottage, just on the outside of the now dangerous forest.
Stella learns about her magical history and spells to protect her life and house.
A little catch, Stella's grandmother is a ghost, brought back to the living in order to take care of Stella, just as her mother wanted.
But Stella soon gets tired of her protective environment and wants to explore the human world. Behind her grandmother's back, she enrolls in the local school in search of human contact and learning more about the world. On her first day she meets Yanny and Zara who quickly become her best friends. But Stella carries the secret of her magic with her and it's hard for her to hide. Although, soon she discovers Yanny also has his secrets and the three of them are bound to go on the adventure of their lives to save Winterspell.
Eventhough this is a book written for middle graders, I absolutely enjoyed it myself. The language is very clear, the characters all bring importance to the story and Stella's feelings are clearly depicted for everyone to understand. Even bigger metaphores like depression, the environmental and identity crises are writtend down beautifully. In short, I recomend this book to everyone who loves to read about magical, fantastical creatures in a cozy and wintery setting.
July 18, 2019
I have loved all of Amy Wilson's MG fantasy novels so far, and I was SO excited to get an ARC of Shadows of Winterspell. (I can't even tell you guys how many times I'd checked on its publication date/wondered wistfully when ARCs would be available/etc.) And oh, was it worth the wait! Shadows of Winterspell is warm and lovely, full of heart and a true sense of magic - like a hug and a cup of cocoa in book-form. I love Stella's bravery and her heart, her ghost nan and her cat Teacake, the gorgeous, sense-of-wonder-full magic of her world, and the best friendship she develops with another (fantastic) girl throughout the novel. I loved watching her find her true powers, and I would LOVE to see fanart made for Stella at the end of her book. (The descriptions are SO evocative! I want so badly to see her drawn.)
I loved every moment of this book - and Amy Wilson has become one of my very favorite fantasy authors (for any age group).
I loved every moment of this book - and Amy Wilson has become one of my very favorite fantasy authors (for any age group).
November 28, 2020
A great and whimsical middle grade full of magic and an incredible plot line.
The characters were wonderful and I absolutely adored Zara, Yanny and Stella as they battled their way through shadows and larked more about the mysterious Shadow King that lives in the creepy forest. Their friendship was so sweet it made me so happy to see them grow and get a better understanding of each other.
The story to was great, structured around the classic trope of the lost prince but managed to do it in a unique and wonderful way. The use of magic in the story was cool and I loved how it ended too. It was simply, magical.
The writing was also great and perfect for the story, allowing it to make the story even better.
The characters were wonderful and I absolutely adored Zara, Yanny and Stella as they battled their way through shadows and larked more about the mysterious Shadow King that lives in the creepy forest. Their friendship was so sweet it made me so happy to see them grow and get a better understanding of each other.
The story to was great, structured around the classic trope of the lost prince but managed to do it in a unique and wonderful way. The use of magic in the story was cool and I loved how it ended too. It was simply, magical.
The writing was also great and perfect for the story, allowing it to make the story even better.
December 18, 2022
Stella is different, she comes from a broken family, lives with her gran in isolation until she finally makes it to school - human school. Stella is half-fae, and "passes" as human via magical glamoring. Meeting new friends and coming to terms with her heritage, she faces the emotional and magical challenges linked with her father, the fallen shadow king of Winterspell... Overall really well written, but as an adult who's read quite a bit of spec fic already, I don't find the story all that original or engaging.
December 5, 2020
Shadows of Winterspell by Amy Wilson is a middle grade fantasy story in which we meet Stella, a sprite who has been hiding from what she is and who her family are her whole life until she decides that she wants to go to school and her world is turned upside down.
Stella grows so much in this novel and although I was very suspicious of a few characters in this book, I adored the relationships Stella had with Yanny, Zara, Peg, Nan and Teacake. She is such a strong young girl and I think her character was written beautifully, she was so real and believable, I was so proud of her at the end.
The premise is a really unique one. For years, the forest and the fae have been I suppose prisoners of the Shadow King, an evil, sad and grieving King who has turned his world to shadow. His shadows destroy the forest and the fae are trying to fight back, but they are struggling.
Nan, Teacake and Peg were such amazing characters too, really unique, but I really liked getting to know them, even though I was a little bit suspicious of them at one point! Zara is also a fabulous character, she takes everything in her stride and genuinely shocked me in the end! I can’t say much about Yanny, but I did like reading about him and learning about his family.
Overall, this book was lovely! It took me by surprise and I have to say that Amy Wilson is an author that I will read again! The writing style was easy, fluid and beautiful, it really kept me in the story and I found that it went hand in hand with the setting and the characters.
I gave this book 4 stars, just a few issues with the ending and a few little blips in the story, but I was immersed while reading it and I think it would be a marvellous pick for anyone aged 8 and up!
Stella grows so much in this novel and although I was very suspicious of a few characters in this book, I adored the relationships Stella had with Yanny, Zara, Peg, Nan and Teacake. She is such a strong young girl and I think her character was written beautifully, she was so real and believable, I was so proud of her at the end.
The premise is a really unique one. For years, the forest and the fae have been I suppose prisoners of the Shadow King, an evil, sad and grieving King who has turned his world to shadow. His shadows destroy the forest and the fae are trying to fight back, but they are struggling.
Nan, Teacake and Peg were such amazing characters too, really unique, but I really liked getting to know them, even though I was a little bit suspicious of them at one point! Zara is also a fabulous character, she takes everything in her stride and genuinely shocked me in the end! I can’t say much about Yanny, but I did like reading about him and learning about his family.
Overall, this book was lovely! It took me by surprise and I have to say that Amy Wilson is an author that I will read again! The writing style was easy, fluid and beautiful, it really kept me in the story and I found that it went hand in hand with the setting and the characters.
I gave this book 4 stars, just a few issues with the ending and a few little blips in the story, but I was immersed while reading it and I think it would be a marvellous pick for anyone aged 8 and up!
November 26, 2020
Stella has a dream of going to school, shes lonely, Living with her Grandma who happens to be a ghost and an imp called Peg, She lives on the borders of Winterspell Forest behind the magic.
After enrolling at the local school and making friends she discovers that not all is as it initially seems and she is fact at the heart of a Fae Legend.
Full of family secrets and magic this book really is beautiful. I loved all of the characters and the relationship between Stella and her family.
Stella has great resilience about her, she is determined to do the right thing even if that means facing some difficult truths about her family.
Amy really brings childrens fantasy and magic to life with fantastic world building and an action packed plot.
I can't wait for my daughter to read it as her first introduction to faerie land.
The story does talk about grief and how it affects different people but is done sensitively and within the magic of the pages.
It really is the perfect read for this time of the year. This is'nt high fantasy so I would recommend to everyone, even if fantasy is'nt your thing its a brilliant story.
After enrolling at the local school and making friends she discovers that not all is as it initially seems and she is fact at the heart of a Fae Legend.
Full of family secrets and magic this book really is beautiful. I loved all of the characters and the relationship between Stella and her family.
Stella has great resilience about her, she is determined to do the right thing even if that means facing some difficult truths about her family.
Amy really brings childrens fantasy and magic to life with fantastic world building and an action packed plot.
I can't wait for my daughter to read it as her first introduction to faerie land.
The story does talk about grief and how it affects different people but is done sensitively and within the magic of the pages.
It really is the perfect read for this time of the year. This is'nt high fantasy so I would recommend to everyone, even if fantasy is'nt your thing its a brilliant story.
July 27, 2019
This book is a magical story filled with faes and magnificent creatures, of covering a fated prophecy and fighting for peace to the land of Winterspell. The metaphorical aspect of the king's shadows that becomes a nightmare is truly such a feat to read. It was such an interesting take and will make readers eager to find out what will happen next.
I get why Stella would crave for some company to the extent of enrolling to school but it was nothing like she was expecting it to go. There, she learnt like any normal human being, made friends that will last for a lifetime and even to the extent of discovering certain matters that she hadn't before. Some discoveries that may just be the key to change.
This story was set in the perfect pace, in my opinion. I didn't feel bored while reading and just wanted to keep going to find out what will happen at the end. I love it when a book makes me feel this way and it really feels special like a connection that you may have with someone but in a book form.
I highly recommend to anyone looking for a magical read of bringing back tranquility and braving it up for the sake of goodness even though every part of your being is saying how unprepared and unready you are. It was proving to no one but your own self that you've got this and you can do it!
I get why Stella would crave for some company to the extent of enrolling to school but it was nothing like she was expecting it to go. There, she learnt like any normal human being, made friends that will last for a lifetime and even to the extent of discovering certain matters that she hadn't before. Some discoveries that may just be the key to change.
This story was set in the perfect pace, in my opinion. I didn't feel bored while reading and just wanted to keep going to find out what will happen at the end. I love it when a book makes me feel this way and it really feels special like a connection that you may have with someone but in a book form.
I highly recommend to anyone looking for a magical read of bringing back tranquility and braving it up for the sake of goodness even though every part of your being is saying how unprepared and unready you are. It was proving to no one but your own self that you've got this and you can do it!
December 5, 2020
Winterspell is full of magic right from the start which I loved. Stella's grandmother who brought her up is a ghost and they have an imp guarding the house. There is a mystery of how Stella ended up living with her Nan and why the forest is full of shadows. The book was quite fast paced and I liked that there were actually some answers early on as well as so much mystery.
I must say that while the cover is really beautiful, it gave me a totally incorrect vision of the forest which actually sounds so dark, creepy and absolutely terrifying. I really enjoyed the book but did feel like the ending felt a bit unfinished, I wanted more. I read this with the Middle Grade Marvels book club and we all agreed we want a sequel!
I must say that while the cover is really beautiful, it gave me a totally incorrect vision of the forest which actually sounds so dark, creepy and absolutely terrifying. I really enjoyed the book but did feel like the ending felt a bit unfinished, I wanted more. I read this with the Middle Grade Marvels book club and we all agreed we want a sequel!
August 13, 2020
I just can't help it, I always love these type of magical children's books! They're my ultimate escapism.
I was very impressed with how Wilson managed to create such an intricate and beautiful world in such a short book. I loved how the story tackled big and important topics, like grief, what it means to be true friends, being yourself and much more.
Though I did feel like it wrapped up a little too fast (and a little sloppy), I still enjoyed it and felt very satisfied and happy after finishing it. This book is perfect for young and old, if either are looking for a fun escape into a beautifully magical world!
I was very impressed with how Wilson managed to create such an intricate and beautiful world in such a short book. I loved how the story tackled big and important topics, like grief, what it means to be true friends, being yourself and much more.
Though I did feel like it wrapped up a little too fast (and a little sloppy), I still enjoyed it and felt very satisfied and happy after finishing it. This book is perfect for young and old, if either are looking for a fun escape into a beautifully magical world!
July 21, 2019
Family, friendship, magic, secrets and bravery. Stella has been hidden from the world of magic and humans for too long - when she takes the plunge to join a school, her life changes forever. She discovers things about herself and the dark and dangerous forest that really gets her thinking. I absolutely adored the magic in this - Amy Wilson does this perfectly. This book is charming, magical and gorgeous.
February 24, 2025
Great book. Definitely recommend
August 28, 2025
It was very good it has lots of new words to learn
May 10, 2021
Love wintery and magical stories? You'll enjoy this one.
https://elifthereader.com/books/shado...
https://elifthereader.com/books/shado...
December 26, 2019
Though not an incredibly impactful book, this was a sweet fantasy story, and perfect for winter.
Firstly, I liked the general idea of a girl living on the edge of an enchanted forest with her ghost grandma and a fun little imp. (And a kitten.) This book also definately had a cozy and magical atmosphere. The main character was interesting, and so were her friends. But I do believe they could have been better developed.
There were short pages with descriptions about different kinds of fae throughout the book. I enjoyed them and felt they added some more insight into the world. However, I feel like the balance between the magical fae side of the story and the "normal" school side was kind of weird.
My main con was that I felt like there were a few plot conveniences, (at least Stella admitted some things felt weird) or just small details that didn't make a lot of sense to me. One example is near the ending of the story when the main character, Stella, is facing her father. During this conflict, Stella briefly mentions that she is barefoot. Why would she be barefoot in an enchanted forest in the middle of a battle???? Luckily, these details didn't badly impact the plot too much.
Another minor thing that annoyed me was the character of Tash. Tash was only in a few scenes and in those scenes, her main purpose was to dislike Stella. (Or at least thats how I saw it.) There is no resolution, or explanation as to why. I think it was just for creating irrevelant drama. Maybe it could have been a benefit to the plot if her character was more developed. Her motivation mighy have added on to themes such as fear or distrust during the reign of the Shadow King.
In addition, the story had a lot of telling but not a lot of action until the ending, which also seemed sort of rushed.
Despite this, I still think the story is fun and perfect for winter. It is a simple and fast read with interesting themes of self-discovery, courage, friendship and facing your fears.
(There were 2 editing mistakes. Ugh)
Firstly, I liked the general idea of a girl living on the edge of an enchanted forest with her ghost grandma and a fun little imp. (And a kitten.) This book also definately had a cozy and magical atmosphere. The main character was interesting, and so were her friends. But I do believe they could have been better developed.
There were short pages with descriptions about different kinds of fae throughout the book. I enjoyed them and felt they added some more insight into the world. However, I feel like the balance between the magical fae side of the story and the "normal" school side was kind of weird.
My main con was that I felt like there were a few plot conveniences, (at least Stella admitted some things felt weird) or just small details that didn't make a lot of sense to me. One example is near the ending of the story when the main character, Stella, is facing her father. During this conflict, Stella briefly mentions that she is barefoot. Why would she be barefoot in an enchanted forest in the middle of a battle???? Luckily, these details didn't badly impact the plot too much.
Another minor thing that annoyed me was the character of Tash. Tash was only in a few scenes and in those scenes, her main purpose was to dislike Stella. (Or at least thats how I saw it.) There is no resolution, or explanation as to why. I think it was just for creating irrevelant drama. Maybe it could have been a benefit to the plot if her character was more developed. Her motivation mighy have added on to themes such as fear or distrust during the reign of the Shadow King.
In addition, the story had a lot of telling but not a lot of action until the ending, which also seemed sort of rushed.
Despite this, I still think the story is fun and perfect for winter. It is a simple and fast read with interesting themes of self-discovery, courage, friendship and facing your fears.
(There were 2 editing mistakes. Ugh)
December 16, 2019
In her fourth book, Amy Wilson tells the story of Stella, who lives with her grandmother in a cottage on the outskirts of the magical forest, who has just decided to enrol in the local school. But of course, this is an Amy Wilson book so there is magic but also dark forces at play, and Stella becomes swept up in discovering who she really is and what she's capable of when she begins to meet other magical people who live within the forest. Stella is a lovely character who I really enjoyed reading about, her new friends Yanny and Zara are really loyal to her and interesting characters in their own right and Stella's gran's familiar Peg was the absolute star of the show for me, I loved him! Amy Wilson's writing style is so distinctively gorgeous and I loved it as much as ever here, and I thought the magic system and the history of this place was intricate and so well explained and exemplified- I felt like I knew it inside out by the end, but still wanted to know even more. I absolutely can't wait to dive into another of Amy's worlds whenever her next book is out, because all of them so far have been amazing. 4.5/5
December 10, 2020
Wow! This is my favorite book by this author so far. I’ve loved all that I’ve read, but this one just..wow. I couldn’t put this down. The backstory & the present story were so interesting! Every aspect. Everything was so descriptive & imaginative..I felt like I was there. The big moment scene at the end had me teary eyed-not from sadness but from the beauty & the POWER of the situation! All the characters were so great! Zara, Peg, Teacake, Nan, Yanny, & of course our main character Stella. Stella & Peg are my favorites. My heart broke for Stella, & what she had to go through, & then eventually face. It would be like going through it all over again. I loved seeing her become her true self-in every way. I loved seeing her make friends for the 1st time in her life. I loved the friendship b/n her, Zara, & Yanny. I loved the characters & the story itself so much. A new favorite for sure. I highly recommend! Amazingly beautiful cover too of course!💜
December 8, 2021
3.5
Entrou na estante por causa da capa linda 😂
A história .. Não se pode dizer que é fofa mas tem coisas importantes ❤
Entrou na estante por causa da capa linda 😂
A história .. Não se pode dizer que é fofa mas tem coisas importantes ❤
June 4, 2020
Shadows of Winterspell is an enchanting fantasy read that sparkles with magic and mystery. The front cover is gorgeous too - this one is just begging to be picked up off the bookshelf.
Welcome to Winterspell…For years Stella has been kept safe from the forest of Winterspell, hidden in a cottage on the fringes of the forest and surrounded by protective charms. She has led an isolated and lonely life, her only company her nan (who just so happens to have died years ago), Peg the imp and a cat called Teacake. Nan has forbidden Stella from entering the neighbouring forest as it is full of dark magic and dangerous shadows unleashed by the Shadow King after he became tormented by grief and sorrow. And a war rages in the forest between and these shadows and the magical fae who live there.
Stella has been raised on magic spells and charms but wants more than anything to be ‘normal’. The local high school offers a chance for Stella to fit it and to have the friends that she so desperately craves. But the school harbours secrets too and Stella will learn about a legend that will change everything. For she is tied to the forest and its dark magic in ways far beyond what her nan has ever told her. It is Stella’s father who is responsible for the darkness that has engulfed Winterspell and when the time comes it will be up to Stella to find the hidden palace and face the Shadow King. For it is only she that can free Winterspell from the dark curse and bring light back to the fae community.
Wilson has created a unique magical world full of faeries, imps, centaurs, trolls and sprites. There is a really fairy tale feel to the read - a granny living in a cottage, dangerous journeys through a forest, hidden palaces, fairy tale characters living under the ground. There is an interesting contrast to the two worlds in which the action occurs - the modern world where the school is set and then a magical world set within - and there is something unique and intriguing about this.
I really enjoyed the top-trumps style pages that provided details of the different inhabitants of Winterspell and compared their magical powers. In contrast to many books that are populated with magic, the magic in this book is not to be taken lightly. There is not a wand, cauldron or witch (or wizard) in sight. There is real danger lurking and the magic is needed to survive.
Themes of friendship and family are an integral part to the story. It is the very people that Stella makes friends with at school, Yanny and Zara, that will stand beside her as she battles the Shadow King. And whilst Stella portrays a lack of self-belief, it is her friends that provide her with the confidence that she is capable of doing the unexpected.
Readers will love exploring the world of Winterspell and searching for the palace hidden within. A read that encourages children to be brave and choose their own path and ultimately find their own place in the world. Just beware of the shadows and don’t forget your fae-light. Recommended for 9+.
Welcome to Winterspell…For years Stella has been kept safe from the forest of Winterspell, hidden in a cottage on the fringes of the forest and surrounded by protective charms. She has led an isolated and lonely life, her only company her nan (who just so happens to have died years ago), Peg the imp and a cat called Teacake. Nan has forbidden Stella from entering the neighbouring forest as it is full of dark magic and dangerous shadows unleashed by the Shadow King after he became tormented by grief and sorrow. And a war rages in the forest between and these shadows and the magical fae who live there.
Stella has been raised on magic spells and charms but wants more than anything to be ‘normal’. The local high school offers a chance for Stella to fit it and to have the friends that she so desperately craves. But the school harbours secrets too and Stella will learn about a legend that will change everything. For she is tied to the forest and its dark magic in ways far beyond what her nan has ever told her. It is Stella’s father who is responsible for the darkness that has engulfed Winterspell and when the time comes it will be up to Stella to find the hidden palace and face the Shadow King. For it is only she that can free Winterspell from the dark curse and bring light back to the fae community.
Wilson has created a unique magical world full of faeries, imps, centaurs, trolls and sprites. There is a really fairy tale feel to the read - a granny living in a cottage, dangerous journeys through a forest, hidden palaces, fairy tale characters living under the ground. There is an interesting contrast to the two worlds in which the action occurs - the modern world where the school is set and then a magical world set within - and there is something unique and intriguing about this.
I really enjoyed the top-trumps style pages that provided details of the different inhabitants of Winterspell and compared their magical powers. In contrast to many books that are populated with magic, the magic in this book is not to be taken lightly. There is not a wand, cauldron or witch (or wizard) in sight. There is real danger lurking and the magic is needed to survive.
Themes of friendship and family are an integral part to the story. It is the very people that Stella makes friends with at school, Yanny and Zara, that will stand beside her as she battles the Shadow King. And whilst Stella portrays a lack of self-belief, it is her friends that provide her with the confidence that she is capable of doing the unexpected.
Readers will love exploring the world of Winterspell and searching for the palace hidden within. A read that encourages children to be brave and choose their own path and ultimately find their own place in the world. Just beware of the shadows and don’t forget your fae-light. Recommended for 9+.
September 4, 2019
A coming-of-age adventure story rooted in fairy tale and magic. As usual, Amy Wilson's world-building is second to none as she immerses the reader is a richly-imagined magical world that is at once convincing, delightful and darkly enticing.
Stella feels alone, living most of her life with her Nan in a cottage near the edge of a magical forest. The forest is filled with dangers, haunted by the dark shadows released by a King in mourning after a family loss that occurred years before. Stella helps her Nan to guard the house boundary and stop the dark magic from expanding further. Armed with books, Stella has grown up learning charms, spells and the history of magic and has an imp called Peg for company, but feels a pull towards the unfamiliar worlds beyond the fence.
Tired of being isolated from the human world, Stella secretly signs up to go to school in a nearby town. While Nan disapproves of Stella keeping company with humans, Stella arrives at school and quickly realises that some of her new classmates are not quite what she expected. Before long, Stella finds herself caught up in a complex quest to save the forest from the King's shadows and to uncover the secrets of her own past.
Wilson's depiction of Stella as a young teen whose struggles with isolation and identity will resonate with readers who themselves have felt a longing to find their place in the world. Stella feels stuck on boundary lines of all types - from her age on the cusp of adolescence and her physical home on the edge of the forest border to her sense of being caught between magic and human worlds, all brilliantly capturing the feeling of finding oneself somewhere between thresholds and never firmly on any side - a feeling that will seem familiar to readers in upper KS2.
The forest is an enticing setting - frosty, dark and dangerous but also filled with beauty. Rightly concerned for the way their environment is being destroyed by the King's shadows, the array of magical creatures unite in their fight to free their home. Fairy tale imagery is peppered through the pages; grandmothers in forest cottages, shiny red apples, elves and fairies in underground homes, hidden-from-sight palaces and necklaces imbued with magic all seamlessly weave in and out of the book's modern, relatable themes.
Suitable for upper KS2 and lower KS3, this is a brilliantly-told and refined piece of storytelling that encourages young readers to be brave and follow their own path.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an advanced proof copy. We have featured this book on our Autumn 2019 Ones to Watch list.
Stella feels alone, living most of her life with her Nan in a cottage near the edge of a magical forest. The forest is filled with dangers, haunted by the dark shadows released by a King in mourning after a family loss that occurred years before. Stella helps her Nan to guard the house boundary and stop the dark magic from expanding further. Armed with books, Stella has grown up learning charms, spells and the history of magic and has an imp called Peg for company, but feels a pull towards the unfamiliar worlds beyond the fence.
Tired of being isolated from the human world, Stella secretly signs up to go to school in a nearby town. While Nan disapproves of Stella keeping company with humans, Stella arrives at school and quickly realises that some of her new classmates are not quite what she expected. Before long, Stella finds herself caught up in a complex quest to save the forest from the King's shadows and to uncover the secrets of her own past.
Wilson's depiction of Stella as a young teen whose struggles with isolation and identity will resonate with readers who themselves have felt a longing to find their place in the world. Stella feels stuck on boundary lines of all types - from her age on the cusp of adolescence and her physical home on the edge of the forest border to her sense of being caught between magic and human worlds, all brilliantly capturing the feeling of finding oneself somewhere between thresholds and never firmly on any side - a feeling that will seem familiar to readers in upper KS2.
The forest is an enticing setting - frosty, dark and dangerous but also filled with beauty. Rightly concerned for the way their environment is being destroyed by the King's shadows, the array of magical creatures unite in their fight to free their home. Fairy tale imagery is peppered through the pages; grandmothers in forest cottages, shiny red apples, elves and fairies in underground homes, hidden-from-sight palaces and necklaces imbued with magic all seamlessly weave in and out of the book's modern, relatable themes.
Suitable for upper KS2 and lower KS3, this is a brilliantly-told and refined piece of storytelling that encourages young readers to be brave and follow their own path.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me an advanced proof copy. We have featured this book on our Autumn 2019 Ones to Watch list.
February 2, 2021
"One piece of deception leads to another and if you lose yourself halfway, the whole thing sort of collapse."
Shadows of Winterspell tells the story of Stella Briggs, the lost daughter of the fae queen and the shadow king whose shadows cursed the entirety of Winterspell when the queen died. Stella has been living in exile with her grandmother who is a ghost for the last decade, being taught magic. But all Stella wants is a normal life with friends and school. But winter is coming, and the days get darker and full of more shadows.
Normally, I read books with normal characters, discovering that they are magic, but here it is the other way around. Stella already knows she is magic, but she wants to be normal. It is interesting to read from the other way around as we had a character who already knew a lot about the world and the magic.
But I also think that it had its downfalls because that meant that nothing ever really got described in full details, in my opinion. I spent the majority of the book being pretty lost of some of the events. And that is probably not a good thing when a 26 year old feels lost. But I thought that the characters were constantly changing, depending on what served the plot. And nothing was ever explained in full, so I was just trying to understand one thing, when everybody did a 180 and did a completely different thing that I still didn't really understand.
The plot is interesting, and it is a great adventure with a magic forest with an evil king and shadows that all of the magical creatures have to fight. But again I didn't feel that we spent enough time on the important things. There was so much emphasis on the school and the more mundane things which really made the book drag for me. And the climax and ending felt so abrupt. We were building and building to the final confrontation, and then it was over immediately, and nothing really came of it.
It did have some nice things to say about friendship and grief, but again I really didn't think that they were explored enough to my taste. Of course, I am not the target audience, and it is a nice enough adventure story about discovering yourself, so I am sure that lots of kids will enjoy this book. It just really wasn't for me.
Shadows of Winterspell tells the story of Stella Briggs, the lost daughter of the fae queen and the shadow king whose shadows cursed the entirety of Winterspell when the queen died. Stella has been living in exile with her grandmother who is a ghost for the last decade, being taught magic. But all Stella wants is a normal life with friends and school. But winter is coming, and the days get darker and full of more shadows.
Normally, I read books with normal characters, discovering that they are magic, but here it is the other way around. Stella already knows she is magic, but she wants to be normal. It is interesting to read from the other way around as we had a character who already knew a lot about the world and the magic.
But I also think that it had its downfalls because that meant that nothing ever really got described in full details, in my opinion. I spent the majority of the book being pretty lost of some of the events. And that is probably not a good thing when a 26 year old feels lost. But I thought that the characters were constantly changing, depending on what served the plot. And nothing was ever explained in full, so I was just trying to understand one thing, when everybody did a 180 and did a completely different thing that I still didn't really understand.
The plot is interesting, and it is a great adventure with a magic forest with an evil king and shadows that all of the magical creatures have to fight. But again I didn't feel that we spent enough time on the important things. There was so much emphasis on the school and the more mundane things which really made the book drag for me. And the climax and ending felt so abrupt. We were building and building to the final confrontation, and then it was over immediately, and nothing really came of it.
It did have some nice things to say about friendship and grief, but again I really didn't think that they were explored enough to my taste. Of course, I am not the target audience, and it is a nice enough adventure story about discovering yourself, so I am sure that lots of kids will enjoy this book. It just really wasn't for me.
August 1, 2019
Shoutout to @Definitelybooks for sending me an uncorrected macmillan proof copy of Shadows of Winterspell for me to review.
Shadows of WInterspell is a wonderful read for middle graders (and adults) who are looking to venture beyond the classic fairytales into a world where the simplicity of magic is brought back from the old.
Stella has been living at the border of the forest; Winterspell. She has been living there alone with her ghost nan and Peg, their imp friend. She is the daughter of the Fae King who has gone mad in his grief of losing his wife. In his depressed state, he created The Shadows who haunts the fae people of the forest and kills the trees. The tricky part is that he doesn’t even know he created them, he locks himself in his palace and hides it from everyone so he can be left alone to mourn by himself.
Stella’s nan trains her in magic and the history of her people so one day when she is of age she can return to the forest to fight for her people’s freedom from the darkness. Tired from being lonely without anyone her age to be her friend, she secretly signed up to go to school with kids from town. Her nan disapproves of her going to school and socialising with humans. In Broadmere Academy she meets Yanny and Zara who will partake in her quest.
Shadows of Winterspell is a book I can read in one sitting with a cosy blanket and a cup of tea. It is the kind of story you’d find yourself drawn to when the lasts of Autumn leaves fly in the chill winter wind. It reminds us to push on and have courage no matter how afraid you are because there is a job that needs to be done, if not for your sake, then for friends. Not to mention, Amy Wilson’s book covers never fails to bring colour to your eyes. I could hang this book cover up in my room as a poster.
Thank you once more to @definitelybooks for this enchanting read.
Shadows of WInterspell is a wonderful read for middle graders (and adults) who are looking to venture beyond the classic fairytales into a world where the simplicity of magic is brought back from the old.
Stella has been living at the border of the forest; Winterspell. She has been living there alone with her ghost nan and Peg, their imp friend. She is the daughter of the Fae King who has gone mad in his grief of losing his wife. In his depressed state, he created The Shadows who haunts the fae people of the forest and kills the trees. The tricky part is that he doesn’t even know he created them, he locks himself in his palace and hides it from everyone so he can be left alone to mourn by himself.
Stella’s nan trains her in magic and the history of her people so one day when she is of age she can return to the forest to fight for her people’s freedom from the darkness. Tired from being lonely without anyone her age to be her friend, she secretly signed up to go to school with kids from town. Her nan disapproves of her going to school and socialising with humans. In Broadmere Academy she meets Yanny and Zara who will partake in her quest.
Shadows of Winterspell is a book I can read in one sitting with a cosy blanket and a cup of tea. It is the kind of story you’d find yourself drawn to when the lasts of Autumn leaves fly in the chill winter wind. It reminds us to push on and have courage no matter how afraid you are because there is a job that needs to be done, if not for your sake, then for friends. Not to mention, Amy Wilson’s book covers never fails to bring colour to your eyes. I could hang this book cover up in my room as a poster.
Thank you once more to @definitelybooks for this enchanting read.
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