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In RiverClan, young medicine cat apprentice Frostpaw is desperate to guide her Clanmates down the right path—which isn’t easy when Tigerstar seems to be watching their every move. Within ShadowClan and ThunderClan, rifts are opening between once-loyal Clanmates as the changes to the Code stretch tempers to the tipping point. As tensions heighten and old grudges take new hold, one wrong move could prove that peace among the Clans can never last for long.
292 pages, Hardcover
First published April 4, 2023
335 people are currently reading
1595 people want to read
About the author
Erin Hunter
277 books10.7k followersErin Hunter is the pseudonym of five people: Kate Cary, Cherith Baldry, Tui T. Sutherland, Gillian Philip, and Inbali Iserles, as well as editor Victoria Holmes. Together, they write the Warriors series as well as the Seekers and Survivors series. Erin Hunter is working on a new series now called Bravelands.
Erin Hunter is inspired by a love of cats and a fascination with the ferocity of the natural world. As well as having a great respect for nature in all its forms, Erin enjoys creating rich mythical explanations for animal behavior, shaped by her interest in astronomy and standing stones.
Erin Hunter is inspired by a love of cats and a fascination with the ferocity of the natural world. As well as having a great respect for nature in all its forms, Erin enjoys creating rich mythical explanations for animal behavior, shaped by her interest in astronomy and standing stones.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
April 7, 2023
Rating: 7 out of 10
This was a lot better than I'd expected, so definitely a pleasant surprise! Generally speaking, I found Shadow to be far more well written and planned out than the first two books, and it sure did change my perception of this arc as a whole quite a bit.
The plot was a lot more packed and faster-paced than before, which of course made for a more fun read! There were times I couldn't stop myself from reading. The humor was pretty good too - something I just noticed I don't say often of Warriors books - and the tension and emotional moments were top tier.
Now, onto the spoilers!
Starting with the protagonists, Frostpaw was great in this book! I feel like her personality is getting a lot more defined and I loved seeing her stand up for herself and make her own decisions, even if sometimes they might not be the best ones.
Sunbeam and Nightheart are more complicated. Sunbeam has been my favorite of the main characters of this arc from the start, but I feel like her relationship with Nightheart is taking away from her side of the story, and at times she just seemed like a camera character, which she had never been before.
Nightheart I've been indifferent towards for most of the series, but in this book I can say he started to grow on me a little... until the ending. He really didn't face enough consequences for his actions - not for the way he treated Sunbeam at the beginning and the end nor for the way he abandoned ThunderClan. I'm not saying he should've had it worse, but the cats around him sure deserved better apologies.
On a brighter note, I'm loving the villains we've met so far. Berryheart could be described as cartoonishly evil, but her tasks were really entertaining to read about and no one is above a little camp. Splashtail, on the other hand (I know he isn't exactly a confirmed villain yet, but really they couldn't have made it more obvious), is more menacing and I love that his motivations and a lot of him in general are still a mystery to the readers. The duality of these two made this book very appealing and I'm so excited to find out what they might do next.
One of my favorite characters for these past arcs has been Tigerstar, and here he's truly at his best. I was worried they'd mess his character and make him too much of a villain after the events of Sky, but I'm glad they kept his actions and personality pretty consistent while also making him an antagonistic force. He's such a well written character and I'm all for it!
I'd also like to address the whole Squirrelflight and Bramblestar situation. I don't quite like the way the authors are responding to the backlash regarding Bramblestar by trying to make the audience pity him, but I did like that he solved his problems with Squirrelflight, and I especially liked the fact that he's finally retiring and she's taking over. Really, it was about time for someone new to lead ThunderClan, and even though Squirrelflight is quite old and part of me thinks that under other circumstances a younger cat would've been a better option, she sure does deserve the position.
This could've been a full five star read - by Warriors standards, of course - if it weren't for the ending. I think the book should have just ended with Frostpaw's attack - the fact that it kept going for two more chapters just felt strangely anticlimactic. That's not the important part, though: I simply cannot get over Sunbeam switching clans to be with Nightheart at the end. It feels like it came out of nowhere, especially after how mad she was at him just two chapters prior, and she really deserved more of an apology than she got. Overall it just made me so mad it left me with a bad feeling after what otherwise would have been a great book.
Either way, I believe that after this book, this arc in general is a lot more promising than before, and I sincerely cannot wait to see what comes next, doubts and all.
This was a lot better than I'd expected, so definitely a pleasant surprise! Generally speaking, I found Shadow to be far more well written and planned out than the first two books, and it sure did change my perception of this arc as a whole quite a bit.
The plot was a lot more packed and faster-paced than before, which of course made for a more fun read! There were times I couldn't stop myself from reading. The humor was pretty good too - something I just noticed I don't say often of Warriors books - and the tension and emotional moments were top tier.
Now, onto the spoilers!
Starting with the protagonists, Frostpaw was great in this book! I feel like her personality is getting a lot more defined and I loved seeing her stand up for herself and make her own decisions, even if sometimes they might not be the best ones.
Sunbeam and Nightheart are more complicated. Sunbeam has been my favorite of the main characters of this arc from the start, but I feel like her relationship with Nightheart is taking away from her side of the story, and at times she just seemed like a camera character, which she had never been before.
Nightheart I've been indifferent towards for most of the series, but in this book I can say he started to grow on me a little... until the ending. He really didn't face enough consequences for his actions - not for the way he treated Sunbeam at the beginning and the end nor for the way he abandoned ThunderClan. I'm not saying he should've had it worse, but the cats around him sure deserved better apologies.
On a brighter note, I'm loving the villains we've met so far. Berryheart could be described as cartoonishly evil, but her tasks were really entertaining to read about and no one is above a little camp. Splashtail, on the other hand (I know he isn't exactly a confirmed villain yet, but really they couldn't have made it more obvious), is more menacing and I love that his motivations and a lot of him in general are still a mystery to the readers. The duality of these two made this book very appealing and I'm so excited to find out what they might do next.
One of my favorite characters for these past arcs has been Tigerstar, and here he's truly at his best. I was worried they'd mess his character and make him too much of a villain after the events of Sky, but I'm glad they kept his actions and personality pretty consistent while also making him an antagonistic force. He's such a well written character and I'm all for it!
I'd also like to address the whole Squirrelflight and Bramblestar situation. I don't quite like the way the authors are responding to the backlash regarding Bramblestar by trying to make the audience pity him, but I did like that he solved his problems with Squirrelflight, and I especially liked the fact that he's finally retiring and she's taking over. Really, it was about time for someone new to lead ThunderClan, and even though Squirrelflight is quite old and part of me thinks that under other circumstances a younger cat would've been a better option, she sure does deserve the position.
This could've been a full five star read - by Warriors standards, of course - if it weren't for the ending. I think the book should have just ended with Frostpaw's attack - the fact that it kept going for two more chapters just felt strangely anticlimactic. That's not the important part, though: I simply cannot get over Sunbeam switching clans to be with Nightheart at the end. It feels like it came out of nowhere, especially after how mad she was at him just two chapters prior, and she really deserved more of an apology than she got. Overall it just made me so mad it left me with a bad feeling after what otherwise would have been a great book.
Either way, I believe that after this book, this arc in general is a lot more promising than before, and I sincerely cannot wait to see what comes next, doubts and all.
Want to read
April 8, 2023i need to stop.
August 31, 2023
Old Review:
Oh... my god? The amount of anxiety I had finishing this book was unreal.
Let's start with Frostpaw's plot. It's actually really cool to see a medicine cat decide to become a warrior instead, it's really cool. That being said her vision??? The murder one?? Oh my gosh I think she's going to become a medicine cat again. Her wanting to speak with Whistlepaw was also so cute but then she gets MURDERED? WHAT? The exact same thing happened to Shadowsight at the end of the third book, I'm not happy about the repeating plot.
As for Sunbeam, I was really hoping she'd reject Nightheart originally, so I was disappointed by the end where she goes to ThunderClan to be with him. She deserves better fr. I like how she's friends with Lightleap and Blazefire now though, and her interactions with her mom were really interesting. I LOVE BERRYHEART!!! She's terrible but it's so interesting. I'm glad they brought up Needletail in this book
Nightheart is way more likeable in this book than before, I don't have a lot to say about him but him failing his task was kind of funny. I love how he got to make up with Finchlight and particularly Sparkpelt, and that they both acknowledged what they did wrong.
Mothwing really bothered me in this book she felt super ooc. Actually she has for this whole arc! Mothwing would not bully a child for not being a medicine cat!!! Mothwing would not put all the pressure on a 12 year old to contact StarClan!!! Mothwing wouldn't even care about StarClan, she'd find her own solution and choose her own leader!!! Super disappointing tbh.
The Bramblestar plot was also so cool, bro is depressed and he needs to step down. I like warrior cats tackling his mental health like this, and that its OK to step down when you're not okay. As for Squirrelstar, I love Squirrelflight, but I'm worried what they'll do to her character. I also just want someone younger in charge, but overall I'm just glad Bramble and Squirrel made up.
Leafstar continues to be a girlboss, Tigerstar 2 continues to suck. Life goes on.
New Review:
To be honest, after rereading this book I don't have much to add to my previous review, except I think the book should've ended with Frostpaw's chapter and Sunbeam should've still been angry at Nightheart. Let characters have consequences for their actions! Please!
I'll also mention I like how they're setting up more conflict with Tigerheartstar sending more warriors to RiverClan. He's an awful person and extremely annoying but he's great for the plot.
Oh... my god? The amount of anxiety I had finishing this book was unreal.
Let's start with Frostpaw's plot. It's actually really cool to see a medicine cat decide to become a warrior instead, it's really cool. That being said her vision??? The murder one?? Oh my gosh I think she's going to become a medicine cat again. Her wanting to speak with Whistlepaw was also so cute but then she gets MURDERED? WHAT? The exact same thing happened to Shadowsight at the end of the third book, I'm not happy about the repeating plot.
As for Sunbeam, I was really hoping she'd reject Nightheart originally, so I was disappointed by the end where she goes to ThunderClan to be with him. She deserves better fr. I like how she's friends with Lightleap and Blazefire now though, and her interactions with her mom were really interesting. I LOVE BERRYHEART!!! She's terrible but it's so interesting. I'm glad they brought up Needletail in this book
Nightheart is way more likeable in this book than before, I don't have a lot to say about him but him failing his task was kind of funny. I love how he got to make up with Finchlight and particularly Sparkpelt, and that they both acknowledged what they did wrong.
Mothwing really bothered me in this book she felt super ooc. Actually she has for this whole arc! Mothwing would not bully a child for not being a medicine cat!!! Mothwing would not put all the pressure on a 12 year old to contact StarClan!!! Mothwing wouldn't even care about StarClan, she'd find her own solution and choose her own leader!!! Super disappointing tbh.
The Bramblestar plot was also so cool, bro is depressed and he needs to step down. I like warrior cats tackling his mental health like this, and that its OK to step down when you're not okay. As for Squirrelstar, I love Squirrelflight, but I'm worried what they'll do to her character. I also just want someone younger in charge, but overall I'm just glad Bramble and Squirrel made up.
Leafstar continues to be a girlboss, Tigerstar 2 continues to suck. Life goes on.
New Review:
To be honest, after rereading this book I don't have much to add to my previous review, except I think the book should've ended with Frostpaw's chapter and Sunbeam should've still been angry at Nightheart. Let characters have consequences for their actions! Please!
I'll also mention I like how they're setting up more conflict with Tigerheartstar sending more warriors to RiverClan. He's an awful person and extremely annoying but he's great for the plot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
February 2, 2023I honestly have no idea about what is going to happen in this book, except that Sun X Night will probably happen probably also a butt-load of chaos. . .
edit: UGH THIS BOOK IS TAKING FOREVER TO COME OUT!
edit: UGH THIS BOOK IS TAKING FOREVER TO COME OUT!
April 12, 2023
This book was admittedly the better of the most recent installements of Warriors. In Shadow we had better characterisation of cats that we have been denied for so long; Tigerstar is blossoming as the perfect anti-hero, and his ridiculous humour (‘Who put RiverClan camp so far from ShadowClan,’ ‘I don’t even like fish’) is absolutely hilarious - it highlights how young and boisterous he is. Brilliant!
Leafstar’s characterisation is also following an amazing path; she’s continued to be a hard-headed and strong leader, and I only hope that Squirrelflight’s addition to the leader roster will bolster their teamwork and make advancements on the girl-power of the leaders. I don’t like how things were wrapped up with Bramblestar and she; how his abhorrent abuse hasn’t been mentioned, but I hope that a second novella comes out for him - with details of his memories and obvious PTSD - ending or including the conversation he had with Squirrelflight. That would be the perfect way to end this saga, and atleast claw back any semblance of pity anyone reading may have once felt.
Now, lets get into the nitty-gritty portion of this book; Frostpaw, Splashtail, Sunbeam and Nightheart.
1. Frostpaw x Splashtail Versus Sunbeam x Nightheart.
I don’t know why the Erins INSIST on having ridiculous romances in every-cats storylines but to be frank it’s getting tiresome. Sunbeam and Nightheart we saw coming, but Frostpaw having an inane crush on Splashtail is ridiculous! She’s gearing herself to be this outspoken, hot-headed and self-assured young cat, so it seems absurd to have her governed so much by Splashtail’s opinions.
Of course this is invented for plot and convenience - the later reveal of Splashtail’s ill-intent and attack on her life will make for a hopefully interesting reveal, and her own personal battle against her crush will prove a massive upheaval for her character, but knowing warriors, any improvement she makes on herself will be gone in the next arc.
Now, Nightheart leaving ThunderClan made sense; all throughout the last two books he made it so very apparent how UPSETTING it was to even think about remaining there! So his choice to leave, for Sunbeam no less, really dampens his own conviction. But whats more, him returning and his quick make-up with Sparkpelt was so hollow and rushed; she practically abused him, and though through obvious post-partum trauma she suffered, it seems that quick forgivings run in the Bramblestar line..
That seems especially apparent with Sunbeam then leaving for ThunderClan and he! Absolutely ridiculous.
2. Curlfeather was In-On-It.
Frostpaw, Greypaw and Mistpaw’s realisation that their mother never had to die was a sad revelation for the siblings to undergo, and definitely sets up the idea that Curlfeather was in-on, or even lead, the coup for Mistystar’s leadership. This proves a really interesting plot-point, and I only hope that it’s expanded upon further than just Splashtail’s murders; maybe a scene with StarClan condemning Curlfeather and the others involved - anything that pertains more to this interesting plot!
Overall, this book massively focuses on inter-Clan politics. And right now there is little to actually do with the murders, and more with diplomacy of the leaders and how they should conduct themselves. That makes for a refreshing story to follow, but I will remain seated and keep my excitement bottled until the Erins show that they can thrust this exciting story into a new, more interesting depth than what the most recent series has shown.
Leafstar’s characterisation is also following an amazing path; she’s continued to be a hard-headed and strong leader, and I only hope that Squirrelflight’s addition to the leader roster will bolster their teamwork and make advancements on the girl-power of the leaders. I don’t like how things were wrapped up with Bramblestar and she; how his abhorrent abuse hasn’t been mentioned, but I hope that a second novella comes out for him - with details of his memories and obvious PTSD - ending or including the conversation he had with Squirrelflight. That would be the perfect way to end this saga, and atleast claw back any semblance of pity anyone reading may have once felt.
Now, lets get into the nitty-gritty portion of this book; Frostpaw, Splashtail, Sunbeam and Nightheart.
1. Frostpaw x Splashtail Versus Sunbeam x Nightheart.
I don’t know why the Erins INSIST on having ridiculous romances in every-cats storylines but to be frank it’s getting tiresome. Sunbeam and Nightheart we saw coming, but Frostpaw having an inane crush on Splashtail is ridiculous! She’s gearing herself to be this outspoken, hot-headed and self-assured young cat, so it seems absurd to have her governed so much by Splashtail’s opinions.
Of course this is invented for plot and convenience - the later reveal of Splashtail’s ill-intent and attack on her life will make for a hopefully interesting reveal, and her own personal battle against her crush will prove a massive upheaval for her character, but knowing warriors, any improvement she makes on herself will be gone in the next arc.
Now, Nightheart leaving ThunderClan made sense; all throughout the last two books he made it so very apparent how UPSETTING it was to even think about remaining there! So his choice to leave, for Sunbeam no less, really dampens his own conviction. But whats more, him returning and his quick make-up with Sparkpelt was so hollow and rushed; she practically abused him, and though through obvious post-partum trauma she suffered, it seems that quick forgivings run in the Bramblestar line..
That seems especially apparent with Sunbeam then leaving for ThunderClan and he! Absolutely ridiculous.
2. Curlfeather was In-On-It.
Frostpaw, Greypaw and Mistpaw’s realisation that their mother never had to die was a sad revelation for the siblings to undergo, and definitely sets up the idea that Curlfeather was in-on, or even lead, the coup for Mistystar’s leadership. This proves a really interesting plot-point, and I only hope that it’s expanded upon further than just Splashtail’s murders; maybe a scene with StarClan condemning Curlfeather and the others involved - anything that pertains more to this interesting plot!
Overall, this book massively focuses on inter-Clan politics. And right now there is little to actually do with the murders, and more with diplomacy of the leaders and how they should conduct themselves. That makes for a refreshing story to follow, but I will remain seated and keep my excitement bottled until the Erins show that they can thrust this exciting story into a new, more interesting depth than what the most recent series has shown.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2023
Okay that ending was really great for the last two main characters, but what about Frostpaw? They really left it as she probably died, not a definite death but not exactly she’s going to recover either. That’s a bit too harsh of a cliffhanger in my opinion but whatever. I actually am beginning to enjoy Sunbeam and Nighthearts relationship, I really didn’t like it because it felt forced the first two books but it really feels more genuine which is pretty rare in warriors books as most characters relationships get forced upon each other for plot conveniences. I really like the idea of splash tail as a villain, but he looks like Hawkfrost… and he is from Riverclan… I just wish that it was a little bit more original. I’m glad Squirrelflight is finally going to be leader, she deserves it, but I hope that she is the calm and collected version of herself showed in her super edition and not whatever speaks before she thinks character she sometimes ends up as. I really enjoyed this book and I am excited for the next book!
September 3, 2024
Nightheart is making some stupid decisions 😭. I just hope everything will work out. I'm beginning to like Frostpaw more and more
April 7, 2023
now that im FINALLY caught up I'm bummed I have to wait for the next one. and of course they leave it on a cliffhanger! i sure hope Nightheart and Sunbeam can overcome their fears and just be together in the next book. and squirrel flight maybe becoming squirrel star!? how exciting!! i wish i could just read it now, im going to see if maybe the ARC is available on Netgalley?
February 24, 2024
Yes, I finally finished this book after like a month! No, it wasn't because it was boring, it was because I had other things I had to do in life... and I sorta forgot about it until today.... AAAAAAAAnyway, I really enjoyed this book. I felt bad for Sunbeam, but I was very pleased and surprised at how Sparkpelt and Finchflight changed! I also think that usually nice cats, like Cherryfall and Lionblaze are complete jerks. I mean, sure, ShadowClan is really annoying, but WindClan is even worse! And no cat raised a claw when that Fern-something joined. Don't get me wrong though, I'm 100% for Clan swapping, but why be such a jerk to sweet, innocent Sunbeam? Overall, 4 stars!
April 29, 2023
these books never not slay. idc if it's the same forbidden love trope over and over because the books are never exactlyyy the same. I'm also very interested in what's going on in riverclan and thunderclan, so I can't wait for the next book! also, don't even get me started on the last frostpaw pov. how can you leave me on such a cliffhanger?
June 13, 2023
This one was great! So many interesting things to discuss!
More on July 19, 2023 here: https://youtu.be/EIVjkDKXIuM
More on July 19, 2023 here: https://youtu.be/EIVjkDKXIuM
August 18, 2023
Frostpaw doubts her connection with StarClan, and chooses the path of a warrior, but will an unexpected vision from Reedwhisker himself change her mind? Nightheart is challenged in ShadowClan as Sunbeam’s mother, Berryheart, creates difficult tasks that might stop him from staying on ShadowClan. But in the end, will his heart long to return to his family and true home? Sunbeam realizes that her mother is plotting against Tigerstar’s plan to help RiverClan, and wonders who she should tell. As she teaches Nightheart before the tasks her mother throws at the former ThunderClan warrior, her paws may carry her in a direction she never expected to go.
This was fun to read, and my favorite part was when Sunbeam decides to come to ThunderClan with Nightheart, and I liked how Nightheart chose to go back to his true Clan with his family. The part that surprised me most was when the cat attacked Frostpaw at the end, and I liked how Erin Hunter added more detail about who killed Reedwhisker. My favorite main character was Sunbeam, and I hope that ThunderClan will allow her to stay and it will work out that she and Nightheart will become mates.
This was fun to read, and my favorite part was when Sunbeam decides to come to ThunderClan with Nightheart, and I liked how Nightheart chose to go back to his true Clan with his family. The part that surprised me most was when the cat attacked Frostpaw at the end, and I liked how Erin Hunter added more detail about who killed Reedwhisker. My favorite main character was Sunbeam, and I hope that ThunderClan will allow her to stay and it will work out that she and Nightheart will become mates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2023
Hmmm, I don't know what to think. First of all, Frostpaw shouldn't have been so stupid to tell others about her vision when her mother specifically told her not to trust anyone. So she told her crush because she thought he was fine and not evil. Silly Frostpaw. He's obviously the one who tried to murder her. Also she's definitely not dead because she's a main character and there's still three books left. But Bristlefrost died and she was a main character and we didn't see her POV at all until Root spring knew she had died. So I'm confused but I hope she isn't dead.
I'm happy Nightheart and Sunbeam got things figured out. I also think Nightheart made the right decision. He went to ShadowClan to cool down and figure things out with Sunbeam. Once he had matured a little he decided that ThunderClan was where he belonged. Berryheart and the others were a little mean and racist and I think xenophobic for not accepting him into the Clan. He did try to prove himself. He was right to leave though because Berryheart made that place a toxic atmosphere. Sunbeam was also right to leave because Berryheart doesn't even seem to care about Sunbeam's feelings. Berryheart only cares about her own feelings and prejudices. I think Sunbeam will do much better in ThunderClan where everyone will have a better time accepting her.
I do hope Spireclaw and Fringewhisker will be alright in ShadowClan though. Berryheart doesn't seem to care for Frimgewhisker. It will be hard when they have kits. Berryheart might not like them and call them halfClan slurs or stuff like that.
I'm happy Nightheart and Sunbeam got things figured out. I also think Nightheart made the right decision. He went to ShadowClan to cool down and figure things out with Sunbeam. Once he had matured a little he decided that ThunderClan was where he belonged. Berryheart and the others were a little mean and racist and I think xenophobic for not accepting him into the Clan. He did try to prove himself. He was right to leave though because Berryheart made that place a toxic atmosphere. Sunbeam was also right to leave because Berryheart doesn't even seem to care about Sunbeam's feelings. Berryheart only cares about her own feelings and prejudices. I think Sunbeam will do much better in ThunderClan where everyone will have a better time accepting her.
I do hope Spireclaw and Fringewhisker will be alright in ShadowClan though. Berryheart doesn't seem to care for Frimgewhisker. It will be hard when they have kits. Berryheart might not like them and call them halfClan slurs or stuff like that.
August 6, 2023
I have hope for this series. The first two were meh, but this one was honestly really good! It can never compare to the first few series, but it’s still good.
My only complaints are:
1. Sunbeam left her clan way too quickly to be with Nightheart… like- that was WAY out of character for her. I’m only okay with it bc I love romance, but still. That felt rushed and stupid
2. The whole thing with Frostpaw and her random love for this one cat- like bruh. During this whole book, about 80% of the time, I swear her personality was just pining after this one cat. Like cmon- man doesn’t want you… MOVE ON 😭 and the fact that she trusted him with this secret?? THIS HUGE SECRET. Especially since ANY CAT COULD HAVE KILLED THE DEPUTY. SHE WAS LITERALLY TOLD TO NOT TRUST ANY CAT- WHY THE FRICK WOULD SHE TRUST THIS RANDOM YOUNG CAT?? HE IS LITERALLY SO UNIMPORTANT. Just ugh. It’s hella frustrating.
But, those thoughts aside. I loved this book and I can’t wait for the next one! :) lmaooo
My only complaints are:
1. Sunbeam left her clan way too quickly to be with Nightheart… like- that was WAY out of character for her. I’m only okay with it bc I love romance, but still. That felt rushed and stupid
2. The whole thing with Frostpaw and her random love for this one cat- like bruh. During this whole book, about 80% of the time, I swear her personality was just pining after this one cat. Like cmon- man doesn’t want you… MOVE ON 😭 and the fact that she trusted him with this secret?? THIS HUGE SECRET. Especially since ANY CAT COULD HAVE KILLED THE DEPUTY. SHE WAS LITERALLY TOLD TO NOT TRUST ANY CAT- WHY THE FRICK WOULD SHE TRUST THIS RANDOM YOUNG CAT?? HE IS LITERALLY SO UNIMPORTANT. Just ugh. It’s hella frustrating.
But, those thoughts aside. I loved this book and I can’t wait for the next one! :) lmaooo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2023
gave it five stars to preserve the rating but really it was a 3-3.5. First half of this book was aggresively mid, but it got a lot better in the second half and now I'm finally somewhat invested in ASC and I want to see where it goes. Nevertheless, I wish Vicky would come back as the Warriors editor, she had much better plotlines and the series and characters had far more charm. I will continue reading them as long as they are still writign them though.
April 7, 2023
Honestly, I’m glad Frostpaw’s dead (I think she is). I really dislike RiverClan and always have. The Erins will probably bring her back but hopefully we’ll be rid of her. I say Splashtail killed her so he’s my favorite RiverClan cat ever, if he’s the one who did it. Now, I’m glad Nightheart and Sunbeam are together, but I was really hoping they’d be ShadowClan. Speaking of ThunderClan, I’m interested in seeing how Squirrelstar works out. Tigerstar. GET OUT OF RIVERCLAN. THEY DON’T DESERVE THE GREATNESS OF SHADOWCLAN!!! I WANT THEM TO DISAPPEAR, SO STOP IT! Decent Warriors book, but I’ve definitely read better.
Edit: dang you Frostpaw, you lived. I am going to go scream in rage now.
Edit: dang you Frostpaw, you lived. I am going to go scream in rage now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2023
It’s probably obvious from the fact I read this within 24 hours, but this was a thoroughly entertaining book, and pretty much as good as a Warriors book can be. I absolutely love that the Erins are leaning into what makes the premise of these books so great in the beginning—it’s all about the politics and a little murder mystery, baby!
I was super worried about how they’d handle my boy Tigerstar after the end of the last book but I’m so relieved to say they didn’t do him dirty. He stood by his principles and his character remained unchanged in this book even as he served as an antagonistic force. Sorry, but Tigerstar cracking dad jokes while surrounded by stony-faced RiverClanners that want him out of their territory will never not be funny to me. This also happens to be the first book in Warriors history where I see great points on both sides of the conflict! Tigerstar is right to be worried about RiverClan when they’re obviously falling apart, and the other Clans shouldn’t just look away and pretend not to notice as they struggle to find a leader. However, making his cats order RiverClan around doesn’t seem to be working either. I love Tigerstar’s energy and his heart is in the right place, he probably just needs to take the L on this one. He’s just characterized SO WELL in this book, I just adore him.
I lived for Frostpaw’s chapters (as usual) and once again have to say she deserved to have this series totally from her perspective. Literally hate the insta-love thing with Splashtail but I don’t read these books for their quality I guess. I keep wavering between thinking Splashtail is a unique villain or a wannabe Hawkfrost, but then again Hawkfrost was my favorite villain so maybe that’s not a bad thing. I think he’s being written as this guy with a grandiose plan but then he does something dumb and it’s like ????
I also wavered between liking Sun/Night’s dynamic and hating it, and settled for the latter in the end. Sunbeam being uncertain about him at first gave me hope it wouldn’t be another stereotypical insta-love, but by the end I was super disappointed in both of them. I don’t think either of their perspective brought any worth to the narrative except showing us Berryheart’s delightful character and exposing us to more Bramblestar/Squirrelflight drama.
Honestly I thought Berryheart’s challenges were a great idea. All of them were well-thought out and I agree that it should be difficult to switch Clans. None of the tasks seemed totally unreasonable to me, especially since they emphasized qualities a ShadowClan warrior should possess. The narrative kinda gave her a bad rap there but I was totally with her.
Last thing to say is I’m super pleased Bramblestar is joining the elders. The only thing I’m mad about is I have to wait 7 months to find out who Squirrelstar is choosing as deputy. 😭
EDIT: IVYPOOL MY GIRL OMGGGG
I was super worried about how they’d handle my boy Tigerstar after the end of the last book but I’m so relieved to say they didn’t do him dirty. He stood by his principles and his character remained unchanged in this book even as he served as an antagonistic force. Sorry, but Tigerstar cracking dad jokes while surrounded by stony-faced RiverClanners that want him out of their territory will never not be funny to me. This also happens to be the first book in Warriors history where I see great points on both sides of the conflict! Tigerstar is right to be worried about RiverClan when they’re obviously falling apart, and the other Clans shouldn’t just look away and pretend not to notice as they struggle to find a leader. However, making his cats order RiverClan around doesn’t seem to be working either. I love Tigerstar’s energy and his heart is in the right place, he probably just needs to take the L on this one. He’s just characterized SO WELL in this book, I just adore him.
I lived for Frostpaw’s chapters (as usual) and once again have to say she deserved to have this series totally from her perspective. Literally hate the insta-love thing with Splashtail but I don’t read these books for their quality I guess. I keep wavering between thinking Splashtail is a unique villain or a wannabe Hawkfrost, but then again Hawkfrost was my favorite villain so maybe that’s not a bad thing. I think he’s being written as this guy with a grandiose plan but then he does something dumb and it’s like ????
I also wavered between liking Sun/Night’s dynamic and hating it, and settled for the latter in the end. Sunbeam being uncertain about him at first gave me hope it wouldn’t be another stereotypical insta-love, but by the end I was super disappointed in both of them. I don’t think either of their perspective brought any worth to the narrative except showing us Berryheart’s delightful character and exposing us to more Bramblestar/Squirrelflight drama.
Honestly I thought Berryheart’s challenges were a great idea. All of them were well-thought out and I agree that it should be difficult to switch Clans. None of the tasks seemed totally unreasonable to me, especially since they emphasized qualities a ShadowClan warrior should possess. The narrative kinda gave her a bad rap there but I was totally with her.
Last thing to say is I’m super pleased Bramblestar is joining the elders. The only thing I’m mad about is I have to wait 7 months to find out who Squirrelstar is choosing as deputy. 😭
EDIT: IVYPOOL MY GIRL OMGGGG
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
Pretty high three stars. This book is where things start to get a little shaky, if you ask me.
For the most part, I think this book was pretty strong and stayed consistent with the previous ones. The pacing was pretty good, every character had at least something interesting in their chapters, and the story finally got somewhere impactful at the end. The writing felt a bit worse than the previous two books, but that could be because I’m now solidly into the arc and it doesn’t feel as fresh.
My biggest plot gripe is that not too much happens in the book beyond building more tension (which, to be fair, I think is done much better in this arc than in almost every previous Warriors arc). RiverClan’s situation hasn’t really changed all book, though thankfully Frostpaw herself goes through interesting developments to keep her chapters engaging. In addition, Sunbeam and Nightheart kind of worry about and experience the same things, and it got pretty repetitive. Also, Sunbeam got scarily close to just being a pair of eyes a few times. But that’s more of a character issue, which I think is where most of my problems are with the book. I don’t really mind the slower pacing that much, though I do see it being a turnoff for some readers.
Ok. Let’s talk characters then.
I LOVED what this book did with Frostpaw. I already mentioned in previous reviews that I’m a bit sick of medicine cats, but when Frostpaw became a warrior apprentice I really didn’t expect it to stick for long. I felt like that plot had been done and that I knew what to expect. But I’m starting to think the Erins might have committed to it, at least for a few books, and that makes me really excited. It’s been so long since we’ve had a regular Warrior who can contact StarClan (literally not since Firestar in arc 1). In addition, seeing a new side of Frostpaw’s personality, and finally getting some confidence from her, is a good change from the last two books. Her scenes were very refreshing, and I’m definitely curious about where she will go next, especially with the ending. (Although I do find it funny that this is the second arc in a row where our medicine cat character gets brutally attacked and possibly killed at the end of the third book. If I had a nickel for every time that happened, I’d have two nickels, which isn’t a lot, but it’s weird that it happened twice:)
Ok. I’ll do Nightheart next. He’s pretty good for the whole book. I like that he doesn’t immediately get with Sunbeam just because he showed up in ShadowClan, and I enjoyed the trial scenes with him. His resourcefulness was fun to read about, and I think highlighting the differences between clans was a good choice. That being said, I’m a bit disappointed that he went back to ThunderClan. I was really looking forward to taking a break from that mess and not dealing with the ‘best clan’ any longer. I also think it makes his leaving scene last book way less powerful. It just doesn’t feel right that he goes back after getting used to ShadowClan. Also, the way he acted towards Sunbeam at the end rubbed me the wrong way. We spent the whole book watching him get closer to her and make up for springing the whole ‘mate’ idea on her, only for him to basically abandon her for a bunch of cats that he couldn’t fit in with for two books. It just felt like a poor writing decision.
Sunbeam was also pretty good for most of the book. There were a few chapters where she just felt like a pair of eyes, which drove me crazy, but other than that she stayed solid. I’m definitely worried about her next book, though. Bring back the sass, please! Don’t let her lose her personality!
We still don’t really know who the villain is (unless you read the description of the next books. . . Or have common sense). It’s Splashtail, if you didn’t guess by the end of this book. I’m very disappointed by that, since I’m sick of blandly motivated antatagonists AND male antagonists. Can we please have a female villain? Or at least a cat with more motivation than power?
Oh well. Maybe next book I’ll grow to like him.
This book fell off a bit in some places, but was overall pretty strong. I’m interested, and a bit nervous, to read the next one.
For the most part, I think this book was pretty strong and stayed consistent with the previous ones. The pacing was pretty good, every character had at least something interesting in their chapters, and the story finally got somewhere impactful at the end. The writing felt a bit worse than the previous two books, but that could be because I’m now solidly into the arc and it doesn’t feel as fresh.
My biggest plot gripe is that not too much happens in the book beyond building more tension (which, to be fair, I think is done much better in this arc than in almost every previous Warriors arc). RiverClan’s situation hasn’t really changed all book, though thankfully Frostpaw herself goes through interesting developments to keep her chapters engaging. In addition, Sunbeam and Nightheart kind of worry about and experience the same things, and it got pretty repetitive. Also, Sunbeam got scarily close to just being a pair of eyes a few times. But that’s more of a character issue, which I think is where most of my problems are with the book. I don’t really mind the slower pacing that much, though I do see it being a turnoff for some readers.
Ok. Let’s talk characters then.
I LOVED what this book did with Frostpaw. I already mentioned in previous reviews that I’m a bit sick of medicine cats, but when Frostpaw became a warrior apprentice I really didn’t expect it to stick for long. I felt like that plot had been done and that I knew what to expect. But I’m starting to think the Erins might have committed to it, at least for a few books, and that makes me really excited. It’s been so long since we’ve had a regular Warrior who can contact StarClan (literally not since Firestar in arc 1). In addition, seeing a new side of Frostpaw’s personality, and finally getting some confidence from her, is a good change from the last two books. Her scenes were very refreshing, and I’m definitely curious about where she will go next, especially with the ending. (Although I do find it funny that this is the second arc in a row where our medicine cat character gets brutally attacked and possibly killed at the end of the third book. If I had a nickel for every time that happened, I’d have two nickels, which isn’t a lot, but it’s weird that it happened twice:)
Ok. I’ll do Nightheart next. He’s pretty good for the whole book. I like that he doesn’t immediately get with Sunbeam just because he showed up in ShadowClan, and I enjoyed the trial scenes with him. His resourcefulness was fun to read about, and I think highlighting the differences between clans was a good choice. That being said, I’m a bit disappointed that he went back to ThunderClan. I was really looking forward to taking a break from that mess and not dealing with the ‘best clan’ any longer. I also think it makes his leaving scene last book way less powerful. It just doesn’t feel right that he goes back after getting used to ShadowClan. Also, the way he acted towards Sunbeam at the end rubbed me the wrong way. We spent the whole book watching him get closer to her and make up for springing the whole ‘mate’ idea on her, only for him to basically abandon her for a bunch of cats that he couldn’t fit in with for two books. It just felt like a poor writing decision.
Sunbeam was also pretty good for most of the book. There were a few chapters where she just felt like a pair of eyes, which drove me crazy, but other than that she stayed solid. I’m definitely worried about her next book, though. Bring back the sass, please! Don’t let her lose her personality!
We still don’t really know who the villain is (unless you read the description of the next books. . . Or have common sense). It’s Splashtail, if you didn’t guess by the end of this book. I’m very disappointed by that, since I’m sick of blandly motivated antatagonists AND male antagonists. Can we please have a female villain? Or at least a cat with more motivation than power?
Oh well. Maybe next book I’ll grow to like him.
This book fell off a bit in some places, but was overall pretty strong. I’m interested, and a bit nervous, to read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2025
It is both perplexing and entertaining to have our three protagonists essentially being in three different books.
Frostpaw is fighting for her life in a murder mystery, supernatural thriller while sweet, summer child Sunbeam is in a romance/comedy of errors and Nightflame is belligerently barreling through a family drama.
You get whiplash between chapters.
Going from Sunbeam to Frostpaw’s perspective is like, “where were we? oh yeah the implementation of martial law”. Frostpaw is playing COD while Sunbeam is playing Hello Kitty Island Adventure.
Anyway.
I think we’re going to see the main antagonistic force manifest by the next book?
It feels like we have a confluence of enough factors for that—especially with Bramblestar stepping down, Berryheart cinching the republican nomination for president, and Frostpaw in mortal peril.
We’ll see?
On that note, I will say I’m sad to see Bramblestar so unwell.
It’s hard to see such a strong, dependable warrior struggling.
But, I also think it’s an inspired choice to have such a strong, seemingly unshakable warrior dealing with PTSD and mental health issues. I think it’s important for young readers to understand that these things affect everyone and even the strongest person you know needs help sometimes. It’s not a personal failing either.
That’s a good thing to represent in a story geared towards young readers.
Anyway.
Lets see where this journey takes us~
Frostpaw is fighting for her life in a murder mystery, supernatural thriller while sweet, summer child Sunbeam is in a romance/comedy of errors and Nightflame is belligerently barreling through a family drama.
You get whiplash between chapters.
Going from Sunbeam to Frostpaw’s perspective is like, “where were we? oh yeah the implementation of martial law”. Frostpaw is playing COD while Sunbeam is playing Hello Kitty Island Adventure.
Anyway.
I think we’re going to see the main antagonistic force manifest by the next book?
It feels like we have a confluence of enough factors for that—especially with Bramblestar stepping down, Berryheart cinching the republican nomination for president, and Frostpaw in mortal peril.
We’ll see?
On that note, I will say I’m sad to see Bramblestar so unwell.
It’s hard to see such a strong, dependable warrior struggling.
But, I also think it’s an inspired choice to have such a strong, seemingly unshakable warrior dealing with PTSD and mental health issues. I think it’s important for young readers to understand that these things affect everyone and even the strongest person you know needs help sometimes. It’s not a personal failing either.
That’s a good thing to represent in a story geared towards young readers.
Anyway.
Lets see where this journey takes us~
April 3, 2023
I honestly don’t know why I keep reading these. They just keep disappointing me. I’m so tired of the “forbidden” romances, they have been done to death, move on. Nightheart’s character development is weak at best, and the fact that there is “darkness” in Riverclan has also been done to death. So, now I guess it’s Riverclan’s turn to have an “evil” series. So, Reedwhisker was murdered and Frostpaw was “inside” the murdering cat, and it was someone Reedwhisker recognized. Can we please get a better storyline. I guess they are trying to make Frostpaw a combination of Bristlfrost and Shadowsight? It needs to stop. I would not recommend this book. Oh and Frostpaw is stopped by this “mysterious” dark cat. The only one she told about Reedwhisker being murdered was Splashtail. Yawn! Very disappointed. I have a prediction, Nightheart will become the leader of Riverclan to spread the Firestar line beyond Thunderclan.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2023
Really good! Just like the rest of the series.
WARNING: SPOIERS AHEAD!!!!!!
SPOILERS AHEAD
THIS IS YOUR THIRD WARNING
FOURTH WARNING TO STOP READING!!
LAST WARNING!!!
...
OK, DON'T BLAME ME THAT YOU READ THE SPOILERS, I WARNED YOU 5 TIMES!!!
Ok, so I was really really mad that Nightheart didn't pass the test to get into ShadowClan, even though it was on purpose. But then I was SOOO happy when his family and friends totally accepted him back in ThunderClan and FINALLY loved him! He's just so misunderstood, poor Nightheart. Totally one of my favorite characters. I'm excited to see how the next book is going to go, because now Sunbeam is trying to join ThunderClan and I'm so happy that they get to be mates but I'm going to be so mad if it doesn't work out.
:)
WARNING: SPOIERS AHEAD!!!!!!
SPOILERS AHEAD
THIS IS YOUR THIRD WARNING
FOURTH WARNING TO STOP READING!!
LAST WARNING!!!
...
OK, DON'T BLAME ME THAT YOU READ THE SPOILERS, I WARNED YOU 5 TIMES!!!
Ok, so I was really really mad that Nightheart didn't pass the test to get into ShadowClan, even though it was on purpose. But then I was SOOO happy when his family and friends totally accepted him back in ThunderClan and FINALLY loved him! He's just so misunderstood, poor Nightheart. Totally one of my favorite characters. I'm excited to see how the next book is going to go, because now Sunbeam is trying to join ThunderClan and I'm so happy that they get to be mates but I'm going to be so mad if it doesn't work out.
:)
April 17, 2023
Excellent addition to the series!! The character growth was insane, but also not rushed. It felt entirely natural. The plot twists were not forced either. I especially loved Sunbeam’s developing feelings for Nightheart. Instead of just falling for him instantly, she naturally developed her feelings after getting to know him and spending genuine time with him. I appreciated how Nightheart came to terms with his family, realizing that they didn’t hate him. I cannot wait to see if Sunbeam joins him in ThunderClan in the next book, and if she does, how that will go with the brewing tensions between ShadowClan and ThunderClan. Also, Squirrelstar for the win!! Frostpaw is getting dangerously close to the truth. Is it really Splashtail that hurt her and everyone else? If it was him, why did he suggest her going to another medicine cat just to hurt her in the end? Is she going to be ok? I’d say this is easily one of the best books of the main series since TPB.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2023
the best thing about this book was frostpaw… in general was not very interested in sunbeam and nightheart’s relationship, and the fact that it exists. very disappointed that sunbeam did a complete 180 😔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2023
warrior cats, my beloved :,) erin hunter never misses
January 11, 2024
slow at the start but the second half? wow i can’t wait to start the next book
March 17, 2024
Fav character: Nightheart
Dangggg that ending was a cliff hanger for all the main characters
5 ✨
Dangggg that ending was a cliff hanger for all the main characters
5 ✨
June 5, 2025
I wish I was 12 and still thought these were the pinnacle of literature
December 14, 2024
It was very calm then, BANG crazy
November 21, 2025
i am a grown ass adult and shouldn’t be complaining about these kids books but for 2/3s of this nothing happens and the other third is frostpaw literally in the trenches
April 18, 2023
Over too soon!
Great cliffhangers! I'm truly stressed at what might have happened to one and anxious for the other two. Squirrel Star! Who will be her deputy!
Great cliffhangers! I'm truly stressed at what might have happened to one and anxious for the other two. Squirrel Star! Who will be her deputy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews