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Starfell #4
Willow Moss and the Magic Thief
The fourth book in the magical Starfell series, starring misfit witch Willow Moss.
Starfell is on the edge of disaster. The fight against Silas, the wizard determined to steal all magic for himself, is far from over – but how can Willow make a difference when her powers have been taken? With the help of her friends, the young witch sets off to the treacherous Mountains of Nach. There, she hopes to find the Craegun, a powerful beast believed to restore anything that has been lost – for a heavy price. The mission is fraught with danger, but there’s no turning back . . . or the magic of Willow’s world will be lost forever. The epic fourth adventure in the Starfell series is a powerful celebration of kindness, resilience and equality.
Starfell is on the edge of disaster. The fight against Silas, the wizard determined to steal all magic for himself, is far from over – but how can Willow make a difference when her powers have been taken? With the help of her friends, the young witch sets off to the treacherous Mountains of Nach. There, she hopes to find the Craegun, a powerful beast believed to restore anything that has been lost – for a heavy price. The mission is fraught with danger, but there’s no turning back . . . or the magic of Willow’s world will be lost forever. The epic fourth adventure in the Starfell series is a powerful celebration of kindness, resilience and equality.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2022
7 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
About the author
Dominique Valente
17 books184 followersDominique Valente is the bestselling author of the Starfell series.
She was a journalist for over a decade but thankfully came to her senses and now writes about grumpy monsters, dragons and witches instead.
She grew up in South Africa but now lives along the Suffolk coast in the UK and writes in a green writing shed that takes time to warm up much like her brain. She is powered by coffee, chocolate and stories about magic.
Born with one hand, her books are often subtle love-letters to anyone who has ever felt different or wanted to belong.
For news, book signings, festivals and other events find out more at www.dominiquevalente.com
She was a journalist for over a decade but thankfully came to her senses and now writes about grumpy monsters, dragons and witches instead.
She grew up in South Africa but now lives along the Suffolk coast in the UK and writes in a green writing shed that takes time to warm up much like her brain. She is powered by coffee, chocolate and stories about magic.
Born with one hand, her books are often subtle love-letters to anyone who has ever felt different or wanted to belong.
For news, book signings, festivals and other events find out more at www.dominiquevalente.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 9, 2023
6.57 on CAWPILE.
I think it was me, not the book, on this occasion. I really did enjoy the audio book, and the rest of the series, and I do think this one is just as good as the others, I just wasn't quite in the right mood for it to score higher on CAWPILE at this time.
I think it was me, not the book, on this occasion. I really did enjoy the audio book, and the rest of the series, and I do think this one is just as good as the others, I just wasn't quite in the right mood for it to score higher on CAWPILE at this time.
May 26, 2022
Wow wow wow! I’m so head over heels for this series! These are the epitome of a warm hug in book form. Diving back into this series was like cuddling under a cozy blanket, & just having all the feels lol. It is such a JOY to read about a character like Willow. Such a great MC for kids to read about as well in my opinion. She makes mistakes, & she actually learns from them. She always tries to do her best no matter what. She is so loyal to her friends & family, & would do anything for them. She loves & loves hard. Her character growth/development just progresses so well each book. She has come such a long way with her confidence, etc. Love, & kindness are her strongest powers to me. She truly is deserving of the her name. Her friends, in turn, love her just as fiercely & protectively. Oswin still gets me lol I love that monster from under the bed so much! Great messages in here like “fears are not facts”. Don’t let your fears stop you from living. Also, life isn’t fair. Terrible things happen, but that doesn’t mean you give up. You keep going, keep trying. And you should never bury feelings like guilt or shame. It helps to talk about them, & makes it worse to not. So many more imaginative & great additions to this story as well. Such as Lumi & everything about him-like his backstory, how he communicates, etc. I also loved the “memories” that Willow kept remembering & taking us back with her to see with her & Granny Flossy. It added even more heart to the story, & so many great lessons/messages. Helped us really see 1st hand how close they were, & what her Granny really meant to her, & why. It was beautiful. Great story about believing in yourself, loving who you are the way you are, always doing the best you can, helping others, & more. So much adventure, family, magic, friendship, heart, & imagination. Such vivid imaginative writing as well. These are so atmospheric. The author takes you to Starfell-brings it to life with her writing. I don’t know if there will be more, but I hope so-many more! Lol HIGHLY recommend! The US edition of this 1 isn’t out yet(I THINK it comes out in January), but the UK edition is stunning, & is full of beautiful illustrations too! As well as the beautiful naked hardback-swipe to see more. Sarah Warburton did an incredible job illustrating this!💜
March 23, 2022
BOOK REVIEW.🧡🧡 This whole series has been an amazing adventure. Willow is a wonderful character to follow. She may make mistakes but she learns from them and grows. She doesn’t give up when things get tough she keeps working for what she knows is right and she won’t let her friends suffer for her mistakes.
Through out this series Willow meets some wonderful people and they become some of the best side characters I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about. Who wouldn’t want a monster from under their beds that is like Oswin?? Not only does he have the funniest sayings when he is scared but he can also blow up when his friends are in danger and survive to keep looking after them. Then there is Twist who can control the north wind, who needs a fair ground ride with Twist around and I just love Feathering and his family. A dragon family that not only can talk and will be by your side no matter what but is also covered in feathers? I’m in love💚💚. We can not forget Essential who never leaves Willows side and can help freeze time and give her friends time to save themselves and each other, she is such a wonderful loyal friend who I would be honoured to call a friend. I love by the end of this story that Willow has learnt to love herself for the amazing person she is but also that her family finally realise that all magic how ever seemingly small and useless is truly mighty. Before I wrap this review I can’t miss out Granny Flossy. Even after her accident and after her death she is still able to give the best advice to Willow and even to us the readers. The passages from her diary made me miss my Nan and her wonderful sayings so much. I hope one day I will be as crazy, funny and wonderfully insightful grandma like Willows.
Through out this series Willow meets some wonderful people and they become some of the best side characters I’ve ever had the pleasure to read about. Who wouldn’t want a monster from under their beds that is like Oswin?? Not only does he have the funniest sayings when he is scared but he can also blow up when his friends are in danger and survive to keep looking after them. Then there is Twist who can control the north wind, who needs a fair ground ride with Twist around and I just love Feathering and his family. A dragon family that not only can talk and will be by your side no matter what but is also covered in feathers? I’m in love💚💚. We can not forget Essential who never leaves Willows side and can help freeze time and give her friends time to save themselves and each other, she is such a wonderful loyal friend who I would be honoured to call a friend. I love by the end of this story that Willow has learnt to love herself for the amazing person she is but also that her family finally realise that all magic how ever seemingly small and useless is truly mighty. Before I wrap this review I can’t miss out Granny Flossy. Even after her accident and after her death she is still able to give the best advice to Willow and even to us the readers. The passages from her diary made me miss my Nan and her wonderful sayings so much. I hope one day I will be as crazy, funny and wonderfully insightful grandma like Willows.
June 29, 2022
What a fabulous adventure. Willow is a fabulous heroine and is anything but ordinary. Her friends show what true friends should be in times of trouble. I listened to this series on Audible and the narration was spot on with great characterisation. I’m an adult but this series woke my inner child with its world of witches and wizards, dragons and trolls , elves and dwarves and who couldn’t love the monster under the bed Oswin. I thoroughly recommend. I just hope that there is more to come in a new adventure.
January 15, 2023
In what may be the last in the series, Willow has to carry out some important tasks to return the magic stolen.
I love the messages that come from this book, including knowing your hidden strength and I just think this whole series is fab and full of adventure.
I love the messages that come from this book, including knowing your hidden strength and I just think this whole series is fab and full of adventure.
April 18, 2022
3.75 stars
January 4, 2025
I enjoyed the world of starfell.
April 29, 2025
3.5 stars
September 16, 2025
What a beautiful end to a fantastic series! I actually teared up 🥹 on the last few pages.
Oh my giddy aunt will forever be green in my mind and might explode when mad ❤️📚
Oh my giddy aunt will forever be green in my mind and might explode when mad ❤️📚
December 23, 2023
3.75* rounded up to 4* for Goodreads.
New Words Learnt - 0
Includes a Dragon-O-Meter at the end which does contain spoilers so please read carefully. All other spoilers have been tagged.
Sad to finish what is one of the better mid-g fantasy book series out there nowadays. TBH with 50 pages left I didn't think the whole thing could be wrapped up despite no new entry in the past year or so. But it is finished, for now anyway. You probably know this from the blurb and or have read books 1-3, but I'll spoiler tag this next bit Ok enough. I've rarely ever done a short book description in my reviews and I'm not about to make a habit of it now.
Guilt is a big theme in this one. Willow is feeling guilty and rightly so. You can't write your children all mature and adult-like one minute, and then make them act like innocent, not-knowing-any-better-children the next, whenever it suits your plot. Sorry, small rant not only aimed here but to other mid-g books as well. As I said, guilt is a big theme, perhaps a bit too much on the nose like a lot of stuff in this series, but I guess when the target audience is 8-11, it has to be.
As has been in the other books, the story's main focus is less on the plot or the adventure, and more on the core values like friendship, finding inner strength, forgiving yourself, and fighting against religious totalitarianism, as well as focusing on other issues like discrimination and embracing difference. I think this is where the author's heart was at when writing this series.
There were trials in this plot (because of course there would be), they were fine, nothing special. The elf staff is a plot device that exists I guess. The vanished kingdom never made another appearance.
Which leads us nicely to characters, and starting with a character that was also in TVK, but barely made an appearance here. Peg! Seriously though, he might as well never existed because he pops up with a one-line speech and then disappears again forever. How poetic. Sorry to disappoint the two Peg fans out there who actually noticed him in TVK. Twist's involvement here is more relevant to the plot, but she only makes a very brief cameo (again, questioning some of the storylines and inclusions here).
Ok, ok. Main characters, Willow and to some extent Oswin(ifred). Very much a Willow's book this, if there ever was one. On one hand really proud of her. On the other hand it seems like the author is trying her damn hardest to MAKE ME be proud of her which has the opposite effect. Too much tell, not enough show in this book. It's as if with every single life lesson, or every single obstacle where she is stuck, a memory just conveniently pops up of Granny Flossy speaking about that thing and then it's suddenly overcome! Forget finding lost things. Willow's true power is finding lost memories and remembering them perfectly. And again, some of the things she thinks or says is not what a 13yo would think or say. In these instances I hear the author's voice not the character's, and that is not a good sign. Also, did no-one else apart from Granny Flossy say anything inspiring to Willow? Not her parents, nor Oswin nor Moreg Vaine. Nobody? Or does Willow hallucinate everyone else as Granny Flossy in her flashbacks as a sort of comfort thing? I also thought that in the past two books at the very least, Willow has been like the Harry Potter of this universe. Things are sometimes too convenient for her, or because Magic chose her everybody is now giving her a free pass (You'll know better if you've read the book)
I did like the Craegun surprise, I don't know why but I always thought it was going to be something like Der Kinderlumper, but the actual reveal was nice.
I do however, like to complain about both Feathering, and how Dominique Valente mistreats the dragon name. Spoilers aplenty so if you want to read it, click the tag, or continue for a very quick version.
Feathering is the laughing stock of dragons everywhere, used for silly gags and brought down to unimaginable, unforgivable lows.
Didn't know where to put this but you either make your map faithful to the story, or preferably on book #4, keep your writing faithful to your map. There are no vast visible seas between Wisperia and Nach.
The Amora conclusion was satisfying though!
Overall, this series is charming but never extraordinary. A cosy tweeny magical fantasy adventure that doesn't venture too far from the Shire (aka its comfort zone).
P.S. Oh yeah, there's also some environmentalist messages here . Only one POV and that's Willow's so was a bit disappointed there as I'm a sucker for multiple POVs.
D-O-M BELOW, SPOILERS BEWARE!
DRAGON-O-METER:
Oh boy! Long time since I've done one of these. The dragon in question is NOT a regrading of Feathering, despite threats to do so, nor is it the rock dragons I omitted from my previous review. Instead it's the new star of the show, the Craegun!
Size - 'As big as the cave itself' and illustrated that way to. A bit of guess work as we don't see the full scale (pun not intended) of the cave or the dragon so a bit of guesswork between a 7 or 8, so... (7.5/10).
Personality - From the brief cameo he seems to be commanding, powerful, in control, intelligent and witty, yet benevolent and merciful. Alas a cameo can only give us a glimpse of his personality. (7/10)
Appearance - Well no feathers is a plus, but a serpentine shape with no legs in sight will knock a few points. As an Ice Dragon, his skin is made out of ice and snow, and glitters. His head has long straight horns (probably icicles growing out that way) and his jaws have even more icicles. (6/10)
Intelligence - Very attuned to the comings and goings of Starfell. Added bonus that he speaks. (8/10)
Power - While very powerful, he only uses magic in an exchange, so not to damage the balance. His physical self could still do a lot of damage though. (8/10)
My Approval - Intelligence, Personality and Size are pitted against Appearance and Power. The Craegun (from the illustrations) resembles more like a snake than a dragon and this is an important factor. Add to that he is not independent do as he wishes, but is bound to Starfell for his infamous trades, that takes away some points. However, compared to Feathering, or even the Rock Dragons, he is like a god, so I guess it's all relative. (6/10)
OVERALL - 42.5/60 (70.83%)
New Words Learnt - 0
Includes a Dragon-O-Meter at the end which does contain spoilers so please read carefully. All other spoilers have been tagged.
Sad to finish what is one of the better mid-g fantasy book series out there nowadays. TBH with 50 pages left I didn't think the whole thing could be wrapped up despite no new entry in the past year or so. But it is finished, for now anyway. You probably know this from the blurb and or have read books 1-3, but I'll spoiler tag this next bit Ok enough. I've rarely ever done a short book description in my reviews and I'm not about to make a habit of it now.
Guilt is a big theme in this one. Willow is feeling guilty and rightly so. You can't write your children all mature and adult-like one minute, and then make them act like innocent, not-knowing-any-better-children the next, whenever it suits your plot. Sorry, small rant not only aimed here but to other mid-g books as well. As I said, guilt is a big theme, perhaps a bit too much on the nose like a lot of stuff in this series, but I guess when the target audience is 8-11, it has to be.
As has been in the other books, the story's main focus is less on the plot or the adventure, and more on the core values like friendship, finding inner strength, forgiving yourself, and fighting against religious totalitarianism, as well as focusing on other issues like discrimination and embracing difference. I think this is where the author's heart was at when writing this series.
There were trials in this plot (because of course there would be), they were fine, nothing special. The elf staff is a plot device that exists I guess. The vanished kingdom never made another appearance.
Which leads us nicely to characters, and starting with a character that was also in TVK, but barely made an appearance here. Peg! Seriously though, he might as well never existed because he pops up with a one-line speech and then disappears again forever. How poetic. Sorry to disappoint the two Peg fans out there who actually noticed him in TVK. Twist's involvement here is more relevant to the plot, but she only makes a very brief cameo (again, questioning some of the storylines and inclusions here).
Ok, ok. Main characters, Willow and to some extent Oswin(ifred). Very much a Willow's book this, if there ever was one. On one hand really proud of her. On the other hand it seems like the author is trying her damn hardest to MAKE ME be proud of her which has the opposite effect. Too much tell, not enough show in this book. It's as if with every single life lesson, or every single obstacle where she is stuck, a memory just conveniently pops up of Granny Flossy speaking about that thing and then it's suddenly overcome! Forget finding lost things. Willow's true power is finding lost memories and remembering them perfectly. And again, some of the things she thinks or says is not what a 13yo would think or say. In these instances I hear the author's voice not the character's, and that is not a good sign. Also, did no-one else apart from Granny Flossy say anything inspiring to Willow? Not her parents, nor Oswin nor Moreg Vaine. Nobody? Or does Willow hallucinate everyone else as Granny Flossy in her flashbacks as a sort of comfort thing? I also thought that in the past two books at the very least, Willow has been like the Harry Potter of this universe. Things are sometimes too convenient for her, or because Magic chose her everybody is now giving her a free pass (You'll know better if you've read the book)
I did like the Craegun surprise, I don't know why but I always thought it was going to be something like Der Kinderlumper, but the actual reveal was nice.
I do however, like to complain about both Feathering, and how Dominique Valente mistreats the dragon name. Spoilers aplenty so if you want to read it, click the tag, or continue for a very quick version.
Feathering is the laughing stock of dragons everywhere, used for silly gags and brought down to unimaginable, unforgivable lows.
Didn't know where to put this but you either make your map faithful to the story, or preferably on book #4, keep your writing faithful to your map. There are no vast visible seas between Wisperia and Nach.
The Amora conclusion was satisfying though!
Overall, this series is charming but never extraordinary. A cosy tweeny magical fantasy adventure that doesn't venture too far from the Shire (aka its comfort zone).
P.S. Oh yeah, there's also some environmentalist messages here . Only one POV and that's Willow's so was a bit disappointed there as I'm a sucker for multiple POVs.
D-O-M BELOW, SPOILERS BEWARE!
DRAGON-O-METER:
Oh boy! Long time since I've done one of these. The dragon in question is NOT a regrading of Feathering, despite threats to do so, nor is it the rock dragons I omitted from my previous review. Instead it's the new star of the show, the Craegun!
Size - 'As big as the cave itself' and illustrated that way to. A bit of guess work as we don't see the full scale (pun not intended) of the cave or the dragon so a bit of guesswork between a 7 or 8, so... (7.5/10).
Personality - From the brief cameo he seems to be commanding, powerful, in control, intelligent and witty, yet benevolent and merciful. Alas a cameo can only give us a glimpse of his personality. (7/10)
Appearance - Well no feathers is a plus, but a serpentine shape with no legs in sight will knock a few points. As an Ice Dragon, his skin is made out of ice and snow, and glitters. His head has long straight horns (probably icicles growing out that way) and his jaws have even more icicles. (6/10)
Intelligence - Very attuned to the comings and goings of Starfell. Added bonus that he speaks. (8/10)
Power - While very powerful, he only uses magic in an exchange, so not to damage the balance. His physical self could still do a lot of damage though. (8/10)
My Approval - Intelligence, Personality and Size are pitted against Appearance and Power. The Craegun (from the illustrations) resembles more like a snake than a dragon and this is an important factor. Add to that he is not independent do as he wishes, but is bound to Starfell for his infamous trades, that takes away some points. However, compared to Feathering, or even the Rock Dragons, he is like a god, so I guess it's all relative. (6/10)
OVERALL - 42.5/60 (70.83%)
August 17, 2024
Starfell: Willow Moss and the Magic Thief is a chapter book for kids by Dominique Valente, the fourth in the Starfell series. The audiobook version is narrated by Tuppence Middleton. Willow Moss, the titular character, is a girl who has found herself in the middle of a pretty messy situation; due to events in the first three books of the series. In this fourth one, she goes on a quest to the mountains, to try and find a beast that might help her save the day. Surrounded by friends, and armed with her grandmother’s wisdom, she does her best to save magic from evil forces.
(Just a note, before I get started with my review. Since I read an audiobook version on Spotify, I am not 100% sure how some names and things are spelt, so I apologise if I misspell them.) I will also take a moment to say that this book relies heavily on stuff that has happened in all three of the prior books. So, I recommend reading those books first, before beginning this one. Because, while the author does try to explain things a bit, I feel like there are so many things that just can’t be understood without having read the others.
My first thought about the book is that I feel like the book was really well thought out. And the series in general, there were so many aspects, leading up to the conclusion of this book, where it felt like events were perfectly placed in the book. From things like foreshadowing, to things like meeting and bringing back characters, I really think the author did good work in planning where everything would go. One of the things I really liked was how so many characters had such a strong role throughout the books. Even though some of them would have one or two scenes in one book, the author still gave them backstories, which made them feel more real and important to the story. It felt like characters actually mattered to Willow’s journey and that the story wouldn’t be the same without a lot of them.
In particular, I appreciate how Grandma Flossy is still such a strong character, and has a really positive influence towards Willow throughout the book. While she is made out to be a bit weird, I think the author has done it really well, and given good explanations to a lot of Grandma Flossy’s behaviour. It was so beautiful to hear about her being such a huge inspiration to Willow, and Willow turning to her grandmother’s life for guidance in her own. It felt so special for her to learn from her grandmother.
There were a lot of inspirational moments of Willow pushing through hardship and negative moments. Even though there were times where she was feeling down, she kept trying to do her best in any situation. It showed a true strength to her spirit, and I can appreciate how dedicated she was to her quests and role in the book. Also, there were a lot of emotional moments. And it wasn’t just happiness or anger; the author gave the characters all sorts of varying emotions. From things like guilt to pride, I think their emotional states made the characters feel so realistic. Especially when they would explain their feelings, like the guilt they felt because of things that had happened.
A key thing I’ve enjoyed about the series so far is how dedicated the author is to explaining things. The author uses words to paint beautiful pictures in my mind, telling me about all the details of the world, and all sorts of little bits about the history of the places in it. The characters are so full of depth, with backstories to each of them.
I know I keep saying this about the narrator, but Tuppence Middleton has been a perfect choice to narrate these books. With every book in the series, she has done a brilliant job. There are so many great voices she has, giving characters all sorts of funny quirks and the feeling of a personality through their voice.
Overall, I think it’s a brilliant book. I loved the narration in particular. And the writing has so many brilliant aspects to it; I feel like it has so many strengths. Honestly, by the end of this book, I feel like this (and the three prior books) have led me on an incredible, wonderful adventure. There have been all sorts of interesting characters, and I’ve loved learning about all the stuff going on in the world of Starfell. I want more of it. I don’t know whether there will ever be any more books in the series. But, if there are, I would certainly love to read them. Even if they’re not about Willow Moss. I’d love to read more about this incredible “Starfell” world that the author has been writing about in these books. I’d love to travel through the world, and meet all sorts of characters that the author has living in these places. I’d love to know more about the history of the world, and the things people do with their magic.
(Just a note, before I get started with my review. Since I read an audiobook version on Spotify, I am not 100% sure how some names and things are spelt, so I apologise if I misspell them.) I will also take a moment to say that this book relies heavily on stuff that has happened in all three of the prior books. So, I recommend reading those books first, before beginning this one. Because, while the author does try to explain things a bit, I feel like there are so many things that just can’t be understood without having read the others.
My first thought about the book is that I feel like the book was really well thought out. And the series in general, there were so many aspects, leading up to the conclusion of this book, where it felt like events were perfectly placed in the book. From things like foreshadowing, to things like meeting and bringing back characters, I really think the author did good work in planning where everything would go. One of the things I really liked was how so many characters had such a strong role throughout the books. Even though some of them would have one or two scenes in one book, the author still gave them backstories, which made them feel more real and important to the story. It felt like characters actually mattered to Willow’s journey and that the story wouldn’t be the same without a lot of them.
In particular, I appreciate how Grandma Flossy is still such a strong character, and has a really positive influence towards Willow throughout the book. While she is made out to be a bit weird, I think the author has done it really well, and given good explanations to a lot of Grandma Flossy’s behaviour. It was so beautiful to hear about her being such a huge inspiration to Willow, and Willow turning to her grandmother’s life for guidance in her own. It felt so special for her to learn from her grandmother.
There were a lot of inspirational moments of Willow pushing through hardship and negative moments. Even though there were times where she was feeling down, she kept trying to do her best in any situation. It showed a true strength to her spirit, and I can appreciate how dedicated she was to her quests and role in the book. Also, there were a lot of emotional moments. And it wasn’t just happiness or anger; the author gave the characters all sorts of varying emotions. From things like guilt to pride, I think their emotional states made the characters feel so realistic. Especially when they would explain their feelings, like the guilt they felt because of things that had happened.
A key thing I’ve enjoyed about the series so far is how dedicated the author is to explaining things. The author uses words to paint beautiful pictures in my mind, telling me about all the details of the world, and all sorts of little bits about the history of the places in it. The characters are so full of depth, with backstories to each of them.
I know I keep saying this about the narrator, but Tuppence Middleton has been a perfect choice to narrate these books. With every book in the series, she has done a brilliant job. There are so many great voices she has, giving characters all sorts of funny quirks and the feeling of a personality through their voice.
Overall, I think it’s a brilliant book. I loved the narration in particular. And the writing has so many brilliant aspects to it; I feel like it has so many strengths. Honestly, by the end of this book, I feel like this (and the three prior books) have led me on an incredible, wonderful adventure. There have been all sorts of interesting characters, and I’ve loved learning about all the stuff going on in the world of Starfell. I want more of it. I don’t know whether there will ever be any more books in the series. But, if there are, I would certainly love to read them. Even if they’re not about Willow Moss. I’d love to read more about this incredible “Starfell” world that the author has been writing about in these books. I’d love to travel through the world, and meet all sorts of characters that the author has living in these places. I’d love to know more about the history of the world, and the things people do with their magic.
January 14, 2024
"I was never the one with the strongest powers in my family, and for a long time that made me feel bad. But I’ve found that there is another kind of strength – it’s finding the courage to be proud of the gifts you were given, to be tolerant when others aren’t, and to be kind in a world that doesn’t reward it. Strength is not letting your heart harden just because it’s easier than letting it become bruised or broken by hope or love. It’s accepting who you are, even the dark, strange parts."
In Willow Moss and the Magic Thief, Willow has lost her magic, feeling weak and sick. But she will once again have to go out on a quest to save Starfell because it seems as if magic is weakening, and Silas is on the move to take over and destroy Starfell and all magical beings in it.
I have really adored this series! Willow Moss is definitely one of the best characters that I have read; her kindness, determinism, and selflessness mixed with her insecurities of not being good enough makes her such a compelling read - especially in a middle-grade. And we really focus on her insecurities and how to live with them and/or overcome them in Willow Moss and the Magic Thief as she has become chronically ill after losing her magic, further leading to her feelings of not being good enough.
This book had such an amazing focus on feelings of guilt and shame and just trying to be kind to yourself and others. There were so many amazing messages and themes explored here: Love, family, kindness, strength. I spent so much time trying to pick out my favourite quote for the top of this review because there were so many great nuggets of wisdom sprinkled in here.
However, I do also think that Willow Moss and the Magic Thief is the weakest entry in this series which was a bit of a disappointment. The pacing was a little bit all over the place. It really dragged in the first half, having virtually no direction and could definitely have been cut more in my opinion. Especially since the latter half felt very, very rushed. Everything felt kind of over before it had even begun. The focus just fell on weird places and stayed there for too long, and I would have loved some more focus on Willow and all of the amazing relationships she has built throughout the series instead.
Nonetheless, I really have loved this series, and if you want to read a fun and sweet middle-grade fantasy, then I cannot recommend Willow Moss enough: You are surely going to love her as much as I did.
My other reviews in the Starfell series:
Willow Moss and the Lost Day (#1)
Willow Moss and the Forgotten Tale (#2)
Willow Moss and the Vanished Kingdom (#3)
In Willow Moss and the Magic Thief, Willow has lost her magic, feeling weak and sick. But she will once again have to go out on a quest to save Starfell because it seems as if magic is weakening, and Silas is on the move to take over and destroy Starfell and all magical beings in it.
I have really adored this series! Willow Moss is definitely one of the best characters that I have read; her kindness, determinism, and selflessness mixed with her insecurities of not being good enough makes her such a compelling read - especially in a middle-grade. And we really focus on her insecurities and how to live with them and/or overcome them in Willow Moss and the Magic Thief as she has become chronically ill after losing her magic, further leading to her feelings of not being good enough.
This book had such an amazing focus on feelings of guilt and shame and just trying to be kind to yourself and others. There were so many amazing messages and themes explored here: Love, family, kindness, strength. I spent so much time trying to pick out my favourite quote for the top of this review because there were so many great nuggets of wisdom sprinkled in here.
However, I do also think that Willow Moss and the Magic Thief is the weakest entry in this series which was a bit of a disappointment. The pacing was a little bit all over the place. It really dragged in the first half, having virtually no direction and could definitely have been cut more in my opinion. Especially since the latter half felt very, very rushed. Everything felt kind of over before it had even begun. The focus just fell on weird places and stayed there for too long, and I would have loved some more focus on Willow and all of the amazing relationships she has built throughout the series instead.
Nonetheless, I really have loved this series, and if you want to read a fun and sweet middle-grade fantasy, then I cannot recommend Willow Moss enough: You are surely going to love her as much as I did.
My other reviews in the Starfell series:
Willow Moss and the Lost Day (#1)
Willow Moss and the Forgotten Tale (#2)
Willow Moss and the Vanished Kingdom (#3)
February 9, 2023
WILLOW MOSS AND THE MAGIC THIEF is another exuberant tale of magic, perseverance, and the value of things not always considered important by society.
It has been almost exactly a year since I read the previous book, WILLOW MOSS AND THE VANISHED KINGDOM, based on Goodreads data, which meant my memory was a bit hazy on the previous book. However, the first chapter very succinctly, very smoothly, and very efficiently filled in all the necessary pieces for me. I was able to get to grips with the key things that had happened in the last book immediately, and thus enjoy this book thoroughly.
Throughout the book, various characters grapple with their guilt over their actions that lead to Silas' stealing of Willow's magic in the previous book. Those small, inadvertent, unknowing actions that played into his hands. I really enjoyed how the book acknowledged how hard it is not to beat yourself up about things like that, make it all into your fault, but also showing how wrong that is.
So many characters return from the previous book, filling it with familiar names and faces, making it feel like a big warm hug. While there are some new additions to the cast, most of the characters are established on, and I really enjoyed making their acquaintance again. Oswin, as ever, was my absolute favourite, making me laugh continually.
I don't know if there's another book coming or not. I've not heard anything about it either way (the back copy just says "fourth adventure" for example) and this book does wrap up the series in a way that feels like it could be considered conclusive. I have really enjoyed this book, so if another was announced, I'd read it!
It has been almost exactly a year since I read the previous book, WILLOW MOSS AND THE VANISHED KINGDOM, based on Goodreads data, which meant my memory was a bit hazy on the previous book. However, the first chapter very succinctly, very smoothly, and very efficiently filled in all the necessary pieces for me. I was able to get to grips with the key things that had happened in the last book immediately, and thus enjoy this book thoroughly.
Throughout the book, various characters grapple with their guilt over their actions that lead to Silas' stealing of Willow's magic in the previous book. Those small, inadvertent, unknowing actions that played into his hands. I really enjoyed how the book acknowledged how hard it is not to beat yourself up about things like that, make it all into your fault, but also showing how wrong that is.
So many characters return from the previous book, filling it with familiar names and faces, making it feel like a big warm hug. While there are some new additions to the cast, most of the characters are established on, and I really enjoyed making their acquaintance again. Oswin, as ever, was my absolute favourite, making me laugh continually.
I don't know if there's another book coming or not. I've not heard anything about it either way (the back copy just says "fourth adventure" for example) and this book does wrap up the series in a way that feels like it could be considered conclusive. I have really enjoyed this book, so if another was announced, I'd read it!
December 16, 2022
What more can I say than this amazingly talented author has done it again and created a beautiful story that any young reader or young adult readers such as myself can curl up in bed and completely fall into.
This has to be one of my favourite middle grade series and I can confidently say will always be. The magic, adventure, and complete realism of the main character in the world in which she ventures is truly amazing. Mix this with the absolutely brilliant personality of the author and you have created a winning combination that I will always recommend to everyone I see, including random people in Waterstones that might be considering books In the middle grade section and have no clue what to get.
This has to be one of my favourite middle grade series and I can confidently say will always be. The magic, adventure, and complete realism of the main character in the world in which she ventures is truly amazing. Mix this with the absolutely brilliant personality of the author and you have created a winning combination that I will always recommend to everyone I see, including random people in Waterstones that might be considering books In the middle grade section and have no clue what to get.
December 22, 2023
A bit too fast but I loved it nonetheless. Glad Willow saw how amazing her gifts were to begin with. Tragic it took several trials to see what we saw in her. I wish to follow Flossy myself. She seems like such a fun person. Willows bending but never breaking fits Willow so well. Gonna miss everyone even tho Willow will always have a permanent space on my shelf. I hope one day the US finishes it print but it's OK the UK hardcovers are gorgeous.
February 20, 2023
Great addition to the series. One of the few books that really highlighted the importance of the journey to resolve the issue rather than a big explosive finale.
The illustrations were incredible and I wish there were more scattered throughout. Really hoping there will be more books in this series.
The illustrations were incredible and I wish there were more scattered throughout. Really hoping there will be more books in this series.
June 27, 2024
I've loved this series since the beginning. I highly recommend the first 4. Great middle grade literature with unique ideas. I hate rating it a 3 but its not quite a 4. Glad the series has wrapped up. Pandemic writing is hard. The author's heart just didn't seem in it. There was a lackluster quality to the story. Wanted to know how it wrapped up
March 18, 2022
I love this series, Willow is a brilliant character and this one really explored her growth. The illustrations are beautiful as they always are and they just fit so well with the story, it really helps fuel the imagination.
April 29, 2022
If you want a whimsical wholesome adventure about friendship and you like the wizard of oz this serie is definetly for you !
I dont know how Dominique did it again. But this book was just awsome ! It was a 5 star just as all three books before this one in this series. Dominique valente is now definetly an auto buy author for me.
things I like most about these books are the world building, the character growth and all the whimsical friends we meet on the way. And this book was no different.
Willow needed to complete test to achieve her goal and the test were absolutely fabulous. They fit so well with her growth and it was a beautiful message. This book was set in the snow and the world building was again incredible. I loved the lore in this lands. And the magical creatures we came across.
These book give me such wholesome vibes and I definetly recommend them. Not only to children but also adult middlegrade readers that are looking for a whimsical adventure with an awsome message.
I dont know how Dominique did it again. But this book was just awsome ! It was a 5 star just as all three books before this one in this series. Dominique valente is now definetly an auto buy author for me.
things I like most about these books are the world building, the character growth and all the whimsical friends we meet on the way. And this book was no different.
Willow needed to complete test to achieve her goal and the test were absolutely fabulous. They fit so well with her growth and it was a beautiful message. This book was set in the snow and the world building was again incredible. I loved the lore in this lands. And the magical creatures we came across.
These book give me such wholesome vibes and I definetly recommend them. Not only to children but also adult middlegrade readers that are looking for a whimsical adventure with an awsome message.
June 8, 2022
This is the best yet! I really want my granddaughters to read it. I’m sure the physical book is good but I listened to the audiobook, read by Tuppence Middleton, who makes the characters leap off the page and fly around the room. Marvellous work to them both. 👏👏👏👏👏
I hope there’s a fifth book.. 🙏
I hope there’s a fifth book.. 🙏
July 3, 2022
I adore this series so much!! And I was very glad to read the wording of the acknowledgements about this being the "latest" starfell book...which I hope means there will be more books?! *crosses fingers* I feel like I will always need/want more Oswin 💕
April 9, 2023
Amazing, I have completely loved the series and the final book was so wonderful. I finished it so quickly, haha. I enjoyed every moment and I am constantly amazed by the beautiful illustrations in this series.
I'm going straight to read the entire series again :)
I'm going straight to read the entire series again :)
August 16, 2024
This is a 3 to 3.5 for me. It got off to a slow start and I had a harder time being engaged with it than some of the others in the series. However, I still think this is a good book and a fun book series overall.
December 19, 2024
Violette est une héroïne comme on les aime : sympathique, persévérante, qui aime ses amis et sa communauté. Cette série est un bonbon de bonne volonté et de monde meilleur. À recommander aux jeunes fans pré-Harry Potter.
May 22, 2022
Book #4 for Beccas 48-Hour Bookoplathon
Such a good ending to the series, I loved it.
Such a good ending to the series, I loved it.
May 24, 2022
The latest instalment in the starfell series is just as adorable and loveable as the past three! This is becoming one of my favourite worlds to revisit.
May 25, 2022
The latest instalment in the Starfell series is just as adorable and loveable as the past three! This is becoming one of my favourite worlds to revisit.
Read by Sage
Read by Sage
October 8, 2022
I rated 3 because even though I have not read it yet I really like the front cover.
January 6, 2023
Geweldig boek! Net als alle andere boeken uit deze serie.
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