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Warriors: Dawn of the Clans #4
The Blazing Star
Discover the origins of the warrior Clans in this thrilling prequel to Erin Hunter's #1 nationally bestselling Warriors series
The fourth book in the Dawn of the Clans series takes readers back to the earliest days of the Clans, when the cats first settled in the forest and began to forge the warrior code.
The first great battle has ended, and each group has agreed to a truce. But merely keeping the peace may not guarantee their survival. When a deadly disease threatens to strike deep into the heart of both camps, the cats must work together to find the only thing that can save them--the mysterious Blazing Star....
The fourth book in the Dawn of the Clans series takes readers back to the earliest days of the Clans, when the cats first settled in the forest and began to forge the warrior code.
The first great battle has ended, and each group has agreed to a truce. But merely keeping the peace may not guarantee their survival. When a deadly disease threatens to strike deep into the heart of both camps, the cats must work together to find the only thing that can save them--the mysterious Blazing Star....
336 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2014
728 people are currently reading
5134 people want to read
About the author
Erin Hunter
279 books10.5k 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 274 reviews
December 27, 2015
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
That's it? That's really it? Fuck. I absolutely loved The First Battle (previous book), so I guess that set the bar way too high for Blazing Star. This was very disappointing. But it wasn't unenjoyable, I guess. There's a fair amount of action, so it's never a drag to read. But, damn, I had so many problems I lowered my original rating of three stars down to two.
First of all, what's with the fucking insta-love?? In the Dawn of the Clans arc, insta-love runs rampant. Gray Wing and Storm. Clear Sky and Storm. Slate and Gray Wing. Thunder and Star Flower. There was a super good romance . Knock it off, Erins. Enough with the dreadful insta-love and write an actual romance.
So, in Blazing Star somehow the narrators became really boring. I used to like (or at least appreciate) Clear Sky and Gray Wing and Thunder, but in Blazing Star they were just so bland.
The problem is that they all sound so alike. There's nothing distinguishing each other. I think the idea to have three narrators was a bad one. Shoulda just stuck with two, probably Thunder and Clear Sky? Yeah, as much as I like Gray Wing, I'm starting to think he's a really fucking useless character.
So, um..*laughs nervously* Is it bad that it's the fourth book and I'm still getting characters mixed up? There's too many of them! Not to mention, none of them are really memorable. Wind Runner, Tall Shadow and River Ripple are the only characters who never narrate that I don't forget.
So, let's talk about Star Flower. *groans* What a fucking nuisance. The fucking insta-love between and Thunder pissed me off so much. . Not to mention, her character was just useless. Totally unnecessary.
Tl;dr version: The First Battle set the bar so high, there was no conceivable way Blazing Star could have met my expectations. Not unenjoyable, just very disappointing.
That's it? That's really it? Fuck. I absolutely loved The First Battle (previous book), so I guess that set the bar way too high for Blazing Star. This was very disappointing. But it wasn't unenjoyable, I guess. There's a fair amount of action, so it's never a drag to read. But, damn, I had so many problems I lowered my original rating of three stars down to two.
First of all, what's with the fucking insta-love?? In the Dawn of the Clans arc, insta-love runs rampant. Gray Wing and Storm. Clear Sky and Storm. Slate and Gray Wing. Thunder and Star Flower. There was a super good romance . Knock it off, Erins. Enough with the dreadful insta-love and write an actual romance.
So, in Blazing Star somehow the narrators became really boring. I used to like (or at least appreciate) Clear Sky and Gray Wing and Thunder, but in Blazing Star they were just so bland.
The problem is that they all sound so alike. There's nothing distinguishing each other. I think the idea to have three narrators was a bad one. Shoulda just stuck with two, probably Thunder and Clear Sky? Yeah, as much as I like Gray Wing, I'm starting to think he's a really fucking useless character.
So, um..*laughs nervously* Is it bad that it's the fourth book and I'm still getting characters mixed up? There's too many of them! Not to mention, none of them are really memorable. Wind Runner, Tall Shadow and River Ripple are the only characters who never narrate that I don't forget.
So, let's talk about Star Flower. *groans* What a fucking nuisance. The fucking insta-love between and Thunder pissed me off so much. . Not to mention, her character was just useless. Totally unnecessary.
Tl;dr version: The First Battle set the bar so high, there was no conceivable way Blazing Star could have met my expectations. Not unenjoyable, just very disappointing.
August 13, 2016
I have been reading the Warriors series since I was in kindergarten. You see me below when I was young meeting one of the Erin Hunter writers. Erin Hunter is the pen name of a group of women, if you didn’t know.
I even dedicated my room to Warriors by cutting out pages from Cats of Clans, pasting them to styrofoam boards and hanging them on the walls of my bedroom. I’m in sixth grade now, and they’re still here in my room, and I still feel strongly about this series. I think Warriors was the first series I had been really into.
Here’s the summary from the latest Warriors book: The Blazing Star. This time I used the actual summary from the book, to try something new.
In the aftermath of the first great battle, the grounds of the four trees have been stained with blood and every cat has lost denmates and kin. Now, guided by the spirits of the fallen, the cats from the mountains must figure out how to move on.
Though each group has sworn to a truce, simply keeping the peace may not guarantee their survival. Having lost Turtle Tail and given up his role as leader to Thunder, Gray Wing is no longer sure where he belongs. Clear Sky is losing his grip on the forest cats to a dangerous one-eyed rogue. And worst of all, a mysterious, deadly disease threatens to strike deep onto the heart of both camps- keeping tensions simmering close to the suface. Only one thing can save them: they must seek the Blazing Star….
My favorite character of Dawns of the Clans is Gray Wing. This series is a prequel, and it is about the clans forming together and how everything started. Gray Wing helped the cats Clear Sky, Thunder, Tall Shadow, Wind Runner, and River Ripple form the clans: Skyclan, Thunderclan, Shadowclan, Windclan, and Riverclan. I only know this because I know the history of the warriors; it hasn’t actually happened in the books. Gray Wing doesn’t really think high of himself, especially since his mate, Turtle Tail died. But the other cats think he is an important leader, even though Gray Wing gave his leadership to his kin: Thunder. I personally think Gray Wing is a hero. Gray Wing suffers from something sort of like asthma. A forest fire had swept through the forest, and the smoke and flames gave him a constant cough. I think Gray Wing is even more special because he still tries his hardest to help others, even with the burden of a cough.
Another wonderful Warriors book, and I can’t wait for the next one: A Forest Divided. FYI, The Blazing Star is the fourth book of The Dawn of the Clans. And there are four series before this one. So, if you haven’t read any Warriors books, you’ll have to start with the very first one: Into the Wild, with an amazing main character, Firepaw.
I even dedicated my room to Warriors by cutting out pages from Cats of Clans, pasting them to styrofoam boards and hanging them on the walls of my bedroom. I’m in sixth grade now, and they’re still here in my room, and I still feel strongly about this series. I think Warriors was the first series I had been really into.
Here’s the summary from the latest Warriors book: The Blazing Star. This time I used the actual summary from the book, to try something new.
In the aftermath of the first great battle, the grounds of the four trees have been stained with blood and every cat has lost denmates and kin. Now, guided by the spirits of the fallen, the cats from the mountains must figure out how to move on.
Though each group has sworn to a truce, simply keeping the peace may not guarantee their survival. Having lost Turtle Tail and given up his role as leader to Thunder, Gray Wing is no longer sure where he belongs. Clear Sky is losing his grip on the forest cats to a dangerous one-eyed rogue. And worst of all, a mysterious, deadly disease threatens to strike deep onto the heart of both camps- keeping tensions simmering close to the suface. Only one thing can save them: they must seek the Blazing Star….
My favorite character of Dawns of the Clans is Gray Wing. This series is a prequel, and it is about the clans forming together and how everything started. Gray Wing helped the cats Clear Sky, Thunder, Tall Shadow, Wind Runner, and River Ripple form the clans: Skyclan, Thunderclan, Shadowclan, Windclan, and Riverclan. I only know this because I know the history of the warriors; it hasn’t actually happened in the books. Gray Wing doesn’t really think high of himself, especially since his mate, Turtle Tail died. But the other cats think he is an important leader, even though Gray Wing gave his leadership to his kin: Thunder. I personally think Gray Wing is a hero. Gray Wing suffers from something sort of like asthma. A forest fire had swept through the forest, and the smoke and flames gave him a constant cough. I think Gray Wing is even more special because he still tries his hardest to help others, even with the burden of a cough.
Another wonderful Warriors book, and I can’t wait for the next one: A Forest Divided. FYI, The Blazing Star is the fourth book of The Dawn of the Clans. And there are four series before this one. So, if you haven’t read any Warriors books, you’ll have to start with the very first one: Into the Wild, with an amazing main character, Firepaw.
March 14, 2017
There was a lot at stake in this volume, and I feel that I've really started to connect with the characters of this Warriors series. Though I've liked the past installments of Dawn of the Clans, I feel The Blazing Star is really the best book in DOTC so far. It's very exciting.
December 8, 2024
The thing about the Blazing Star is that it is nothing near as exciting as anything you predict it will be, and that made this book kind of a slog! There is no blazing! There is no star! We are in the matrix!
June 3, 2025
Manifest Destiny: Cat Edition
It's a 4th book. it's a filler book. end of review.
But really, Thunder's character development took a major nosedive and for what? :// I really don't see the point of the feud between him and Lightning Tail, I never did. Lightning Tail doesn't even like Star Flower and had no way of knowing she was actually untrustworthy beyond vibes. I didn't know Lightning Tail was the vibe police.
The only good thing here was the Clear Sky redemption arc but I know that's also going to take a nose dive... ⭐🌼 :/
It's a 4th book. it's a filler book. end of review.
But really, Thunder's character development took a major nosedive and for what? :// I really don't see the point of the feud between him and Lightning Tail, I never did. Lightning Tail doesn't even like Star Flower and had no way of knowing she was actually untrustworthy beyond vibes. I didn't know Lightning Tail was the vibe police.
The only good thing here was the Clear Sky redemption arc but I know that's also going to take a nose dive... ⭐🌼 :/
October 24, 2024
It was good! Better than the last one! I liked it!
January 31, 2015
I've been reading this series for awhile now, and I loved it, but I've found that the series is starting to go downhill. I actually pre-ordered this book, expecting great things because the last book, The First Battle was phenomenal, but I really didn't like this book. It was exceedingly flat and very annoying.
To start with the characters. Cherith (one of the authors who writes under the pen name Erin Hunter) is not my favorite Erin. I think it's the way she writes her characters. For instance, in the last book Kate (another of the Erins) actually made me start to look forward to Thunder's parts in the story. I had despised his character before the last book, but in The First Battle I grew to kinda like him, but this book reestablished my hate for this character. He was arrogant and it really made me angry when he became one of the leaders. But enough about him.
Honestly, the writing was really flat, I felt that if some of the dialogue could have been improved this entire book would have improved, unfortunately that didn't happen.
However there were some redeeming qualities in this book. I loved Star Flower's character for the simple fact that she was different. I think she was the first antagonist to use seduction for her (father's) gain. I also adored the bonus story at the end. I'm really excited to see what happens when they come to the rest of the former mountain cats.
This book was flat, and some points were annoying, but I love the characters. However, I can feel my interest waning in this series, so after the final two books in this arc I'll probably quit reading it. Unless, of course, a novella or Super Edition comes out with my favorite characters in it.
To start with the characters. Cherith (one of the authors who writes under the pen name Erin Hunter) is not my favorite Erin. I think it's the way she writes her characters. For instance, in the last book Kate (another of the Erins) actually made me start to look forward to Thunder's parts in the story. I had despised his character before the last book, but in The First Battle I grew to kinda like him, but this book reestablished my hate for this character. He was arrogant and it really made me angry when he became one of the leaders. But enough about him.
Honestly, the writing was really flat, I felt that if some of the dialogue could have been improved this entire book would have improved, unfortunately that didn't happen.
However there were some redeeming qualities in this book. I loved Star Flower's character for the simple fact that she was different. I think she was the first antagonist to use seduction for her (father's) gain. I also adored the bonus story at the end. I'm really excited to see what happens when they come to the rest of the former mountain cats.
This book was flat, and some points were annoying, but I love the characters. However, I can feel my interest waning in this series, so after the final two books in this arc I'll probably quit reading it. Unless, of course, a novella or Super Edition comes out with my favorite characters in it.
December 24, 2014
There may be spoilers in my review for those of you not caught up with this series.
wow...there sure was a lot of action in this one. A lot of cats' personalities changed, and there is a threat that faces all of the cats that was very unexpected. This book ends almost at a cliffhanger, and I absolutely cannot wait until April for the next book. Also, the bonus story at the end was very interesting and ended in a cliffhanger as well. I can't wait to see what happens to the two cats who left the mountains... and I can't wait to see the cats finally divide into the five clans.
wow...there sure was a lot of action in this one. A lot of cats' personalities changed, and there is a threat that faces all of the cats that was very unexpected. This book ends almost at a cliffhanger, and I absolutely cannot wait until April for the next book. Also, the bonus story at the end was very interesting and ended in a cliffhanger as well. I can't wait to see what happens to the two cats who left the mountains... and I can't wait to see the cats finally divide into the five clans.
January 18, 2022
I loved this book so much and I am excited because I got to read the bonus at the end! The blazing star is much smaller than I had excepted it to be. I can’t wait to read the next book!
August 27, 2024
I just want something bad to happen to a main character just once man. I know these books are for kids and you can't dole out that kind of reality to kids but come on. I just know everything is going to turn out perfect in the end and it makes it harder to read them
May 31, 2016
Edit: Lol, I must have been in a pissy mood when I wrote this review. Just ignore me...
***********************
Original Review: I want to avoid doing a long review with this book just because I don't want to say negative stuff about my favorite childhood book series.
The Warriors series has gone downhill so much. This arc is awful. Clear Sky is probably the dumbest, most insipid character of any book I've read this year. I won't go into detail, he just makes a lot if stupid choices. One other note. The 'spirit's cats' basically said that the blazing star would heal them, so why did they just go look at it? Did they really have to wait for someone to tell them it heals? Their stupidity kills me.
***********************
Original Review: I want to avoid doing a long review with this book just because I don't want to say negative stuff about my favorite childhood book series.
The Warriors series has gone downhill so much. This arc is awful. Clear Sky is probably the dumbest, most insipid character of any book I've read this year. I won't go into detail, he just makes a lot if stupid choices. One other note. The 'spirit's cats' basically said that the blazing star would heal them, so why did they just go look at it? Did they really have to wait for someone to tell them it heals? Their stupidity kills me.
September 5, 2016
I always enjoy a Warriors book, they are definitely my favorite of the Erin Hunter novels. This is the fourth in the Dawn of the Clans novels, where we finally see something similar to the Clans I loved from the first series emerging. My cover is the new one, with a proud ginger cat on the front, whom I imagine is Thunder. I do love ginger cats!
Kind of a filler novel, although there was a fair amount of fighting. I liked the lore of the Blazing Star, and wondered at what illness it actually cured? Anyway, there are two more books in this series that I will eventually be reading. Four stars to this one!
Kind of a filler novel, although there was a fair amount of fighting. I liked the lore of the Blazing Star, and wondered at what illness it actually cured? Anyway, there are two more books in this series that I will eventually be reading. Four stars to this one!
February 17, 2022
Aaaand we are back at okay again. We go back to some weird unnecessary sickness, little development from what we've seen in the past book.
I really disliked Star Flower. She was weird and not really well developed. (So was Slate to be honest.) Can these cats stop from falling in love as soon as possible/past mates are gone/are available. Geez.
I did enjoy One-Eye though.
I really disliked Star Flower. She was weird and not really well developed. (So was Slate to be honest.) Can these cats stop from falling in love as soon as possible/past mates are gone/are available. Geez.
I did enjoy One-Eye though.
February 13, 2023
So... nothing happened! It seems there wasn't enough plot to justify the whole saga so the authors decided to improvised a banal plot to pass the time. I felt Gray Wing was a little out of character with all that doubts clouding his mind at this very moment, but I suppose it was necessary to make the plot longer.
Now the clans are facing a horrible new illnes at the same time an enemy hides in the shadows waiting for his chance to attack. But at the very last moment, everything is resolved in a easy and convenient way I couldn't help but feel disappointed. The illnes is cured easily and the battle is won convenient.
So... nothing happened!
Now the clans are facing a horrible new illnes at the same time an enemy hides in the shadows waiting for his chance to attack. But at the very last moment, everything is resolved in a easy and convenient way I couldn't help but feel disappointed. The illnes is cured easily and the battle is won convenient.
So... nothing happened!
November 15, 2014
This book was amazing and I can't wait for a forest divided to come out. All warriors fans will love it! And there's some exciting news at the end of the bonus scene. I'll just leave you to read the book and figure that out
December 12, 2020
I love dawn of the clans. The first two books were meh. But other then that I love them. This book was a page turner. I like this book the best from dawn of the clans. I like how Quick Rain is coming back! I'm so excited! I highly recommend this book! So good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2015
Wonderful, but with a slightly different writing style. I suspect Ghostwriter.
March 21, 2023
*Spoilers for books 1-3 unhidden.*
Wow. I just finished that final scene and... I'm kind of at a loss for words.
This was yet another amazing Dawn of the Clans book. I found it incredibly hard to put down, and I can tell you, a lot happened in it.
So, in this one, the conflict with Clear Sky is over. The moor cats and forest cats are friends again, but now they have to fight off a new evil. The introduction of One Eye was in some ways a little disappointing for me, because I loved how there was no completely evil character in the first 3 books. You could understand everyone's motives, and everyone made bad decisions sometimes, but they were all at least a little sympathetic. However, it was rewarding to see all the cats fighting alongside each other rather than against each other, and it made for an exciting plot. It also gave Clear Sky a great chance to redeem himself, because it involves him majorly putting his life at risk for his friends and family. It really made me respect him a lot more.
Speaking of Clear Sky... we continue with the three POVs we had in the previous book without adding any new ones. I'm relieved to say that Clear Sky becomes immensely more likable in this instalment, which is a huge relief because his POV chapters in The First Battle were my main complaint about the book. He was so unlikable that having his POV made that book a lot harder to get through. I'm glad he got the redemption arc that was hinted at the end of The First Battle, and now I can actually enjoy his POV chapters. Despite being more likable as a person, however, Clear Sky remains a complete idiot. His lack of intelligence was what made him somewhat of a villain in the first place, and now it causes him to make several more stupid decisions which put other cats in danger. At least he has the self awareness to actually try and correct his mistakes now.
Then, of course, we have Gray Wing, whose arc in this one is intense. If you've read any of my previous Dawn of the Clans reviews, my love for Gray Wing should be no secret. I was even disappointed that he seemed to be a bit more of a background character in The First Battle, with not as much attention given to his arc. The Blazing Star more than makes up for this, though, by putting him through a whole bunch of inner turmoil, and giving him lots of realisations and character development.
The first time we get his POV, he's grieving intensely. As you'd expect for someone so sensitive, who cares so much about others, he took the whole battle thing really hard. Possibly even harder than anyone else, and especially considering that he was still grieving Turtle Tail when it happened! I was literally crying in the scenes of him grieving at the Four Trees.
Going through hard times exacerbates issues you're already facing. Throughout the whole series, Gray Wing's main character conflict has been his lack of self confidence, and how hard he is on himself. I just don't understand how he doesn't see what a natural leader he is, and how important he is to all the other cats. That aside, his failing health, as well as all the loss he's suffered, is really getting to him, because he's been basing his self worth on how he can contribute, what he can do for others, and how successful he is in protecting those he cares about. He struggles to come to terms with the fact that he can't save anyone. Sometimes people he cares about will be in danger or even die, and there's nothing he can do about it.
Jagged Peak has a quote where he says to him, "you can't always protect everyone, Gray Wing," and I was just like, yes! Say it! You're saying exactly what he needs to hear! But then, unfortunately, something happened that made me think Gray Wing wasn't going to listen. I will say first that, although I loved Jagged Peak in the first book, I didn't really like him that much from the second book onwards. He is really irresponsible, and although he says he wants to prove himself, he screws up every time he's given the chance to. This is not the first time he hasn't looked after Gray Wing's kits properly. In fact, I'm amazed Gray Wing even leaves them with him anymore.
The two of them have this fight that honestly really sad. Their relationship in the first book was honestly so beautiful. Despite Jagged Peak being a kit in that one, I felt like they had more respect for each other. Jagged Peak did run away from home, but you could still see his love and admiration for Gray Wing, who was the older sibling everyone wishes to have. Gray Wing in turn admired Jagged Peak's talent. Before becoming crippled, he was a quick learner with unusually sharp instincts and lots of potential. He was a lot more worthy of Gray Wing's respect than older, irresponsible Jagged Peak. It's been sad to see their relationship gradually sour over the subsequent books. I think there is a hint that they might rebuild it, though.
Gray Wing's friendship with River Ripple in this one is just so beautiful, though. I've always loved River Ripple, and he's been my second favourite character from the moment he first appeared (after Gray Wing, of course), but until this book, he was more distant. In this one, they actually become really close, and River Ripple helps Gray Wing through what he's going through. Not only am I so happy to see my two favourite characters become so close, but the friendship they ended up having is more beautiful than I ever could have hoped for.
What else? Oh, yes. There are some kind of annoying new characters- especially Holly. And Wind Runner is just getting more and more insufferable with each passing book. Seriously, I don't know how any of the other cats can stand her, but they even seem to respect her!
Wow. I just finished that final scene and... I'm kind of at a loss for words.
This was yet another amazing Dawn of the Clans book. I found it incredibly hard to put down, and I can tell you, a lot happened in it.
So, in this one, the conflict with Clear Sky is over. The moor cats and forest cats are friends again, but now they have to fight off a new evil. The introduction of One Eye was in some ways a little disappointing for me, because I loved how there was no completely evil character in the first 3 books. You could understand everyone's motives, and everyone made bad decisions sometimes, but they were all at least a little sympathetic. However, it was rewarding to see all the cats fighting alongside each other rather than against each other, and it made for an exciting plot. It also gave Clear Sky a great chance to redeem himself, because it involves him majorly putting his life at risk for his friends and family. It really made me respect him a lot more.
Speaking of Clear Sky... we continue with the three POVs we had in the previous book without adding any new ones. I'm relieved to say that Clear Sky becomes immensely more likable in this instalment, which is a huge relief because his POV chapters in The First Battle were my main complaint about the book. He was so unlikable that having his POV made that book a lot harder to get through. I'm glad he got the redemption arc that was hinted at the end of The First Battle, and now I can actually enjoy his POV chapters. Despite being more likable as a person, however, Clear Sky remains a complete idiot. His lack of intelligence was what made him somewhat of a villain in the first place, and now it causes him to make several more stupid decisions which put other cats in danger. At least he has the self awareness to actually try and correct his mistakes now.
Then, of course, we have Gray Wing, whose arc in this one is intense. If you've read any of my previous Dawn of the Clans reviews, my love for Gray Wing should be no secret. I was even disappointed that he seemed to be a bit more of a background character in The First Battle, with not as much attention given to his arc. The Blazing Star more than makes up for this, though, by putting him through a whole bunch of inner turmoil, and giving him lots of realisations and character development.
The first time we get his POV, he's grieving intensely. As you'd expect for someone so sensitive, who cares so much about others, he took the whole battle thing really hard. Possibly even harder than anyone else, and especially considering that he was still grieving Turtle Tail when it happened! I was literally crying in the scenes of him grieving at the Four Trees.
Going through hard times exacerbates issues you're already facing. Throughout the whole series, Gray Wing's main character conflict has been his lack of self confidence, and how hard he is on himself. I just don't understand how he doesn't see what a natural leader he is, and how important he is to all the other cats. That aside, his failing health, as well as all the loss he's suffered, is really getting to him, because he's been basing his self worth on how he can contribute, what he can do for others, and how successful he is in protecting those he cares about. He struggles to come to terms with the fact that he can't save anyone. Sometimes people he cares about will be in danger or even die, and there's nothing he can do about it.
Jagged Peak has a quote where he says to him, "you can't always protect everyone, Gray Wing," and I was just like, yes! Say it! You're saying exactly what he needs to hear! But then, unfortunately, something happened that made me think Gray Wing wasn't going to listen. I will say first that, although I loved Jagged Peak in the first book, I didn't really like him that much from the second book onwards. He is really irresponsible, and although he says he wants to prove himself, he screws up every time he's given the chance to. This is not the first time he hasn't looked after Gray Wing's kits properly. In fact, I'm amazed Gray Wing even leaves them with him anymore.
The two of them have this fight that honestly really sad. Their relationship in the first book was honestly so beautiful. Despite Jagged Peak being a kit in that one, I felt like they had more respect for each other. Jagged Peak did run away from home, but you could still see his love and admiration for Gray Wing, who was the older sibling everyone wishes to have. Gray Wing in turn admired Jagged Peak's talent. Before becoming crippled, he was a quick learner with unusually sharp instincts and lots of potential. He was a lot more worthy of Gray Wing's respect than older, irresponsible Jagged Peak. It's been sad to see their relationship gradually sour over the subsequent books. I think there is a hint that they might rebuild it, though.
Gray Wing's friendship with River Ripple in this one is just so beautiful, though. I've always loved River Ripple, and he's been my second favourite character from the moment he first appeared (after Gray Wing, of course), but until this book, he was more distant. In this one, they actually become really close, and River Ripple helps Gray Wing through what he's going through. Not only am I so happy to see my two favourite characters become so close, but the friendship they ended up having is more beautiful than I ever could have hoped for.
What else? Oh, yes. There are some kind of annoying new characters- especially Holly. And Wind Runner is just getting more and more insufferable with each passing book. Seriously, I don't know how any of the other cats can stand her, but they even seem to respect her!
September 16, 2020
Premise: The first great battle in the history of the Clans may be over, but times are still far from peaceful for our favorite cats. With a one-eyed rogue having taken over Clear Sky's camp with vicious force and a deadly disease striking both prey and cats alike, the Early Settlers must be willing to work together to put an end to both threats. The only hope of our heroes is to solve a cryptic message given to them by the spirits of all the loved ones they've lost since the mountain cats first left to follow the sun trail. What and where is the Blazing Star?
Story/Writing: How did I read this book in just two days?! Not that that's a bad thing. Far from it! First off, I gotta say it is interesting that this one is a little lower scale than the last. It felt needed, however, after such an explosive climax. I got the same feeling when I saw "Ant-Man and the Wasp" after the epic punch in the feels that was "Avengers: Infinity War." That said, there's still plenty to keep you on your toes! Every time someone got sick or even seemed sick I got really nervous, and felt the urgency along with the cats to find a cure and of course, the Blazing Star. I do wish the disease was a little more widespread and a few more characters got ill, to convey how serious this is. Not that it wasn't already but, hopefully you get my point. One other little nitpick of mine is that, like in "The First Battle," I didn't always know whose point of view I was reading from. But again, maybe that's just an issue of me reading a bit too fast. Still, when I get through a book in just two days, that alone is a pretty good sign that I liked it! I love how these women always pack their titles with content even though the synopsis of each may seem minimal at first.
Characters: The characters are all just as good as ever. They've all grown a lot in the last three books and I had just as much fun reading about how they continue to grow here. I am sad that certain beloved characters are now gone – but we also get to meet some new faces, both good and bad (morally)! Every decision, major or minor, felt integral to the plot, which goes to show how good these women are at setting up their stories and characters so that they really depend on each other.
Gray Wing: I once again really like Gray Wing's characterization, especially given everything that's happened in the last three books. He thinks he's holding everyone back – particularly Thunder and Jagged Peak – and even goes off to live with River Ripple for awhile, without telling anyone. But taking into account how much he's had to go through already, it's totally understandable. He feels like he's aged prematurely – mentally and physically – that he's not needed – at least, not in a way he considers useful – even though it's obvious, despite what some characters may say or do, that he's the one who's made the moor cats the heroes they are. Fortunately, he does find a way to still provide wisdom and guidance to some cats, while leaving room for others to grow.
Clear Sky: I'm so glad Clear Sky's gone back to being at least somewhat of a good guy. I still sometimes want to hit him upside the head, but also recognize the effort he's putting into making amends. He does continue to make mistakes and lapses in judgment – big time regarding the latter – but he immediately tries to set things right as best he can the moment he realizes he's done wrong. He's willing to put himself out in the open – in direct danger – to bait One Eye into a trap. He lets Jagged Peak prove himself to him by leading the second expedition to find the Blazing Star. He even calls Sparrow Fur one of the bravest cats he knows, even though she's a still only half-grown. Clear Sky may not be perfect, but he's probably become one of my favorite characters in this series so far.
Thunder: Once again, Thunder proves himself a great leader, even as he continues to grow into his role. I love how he finally seems to be getting along with his father. Some might say he acted a little stupidly in this book – specifically in his relationship with Star Flower. I actually found it pretty realistic. When you really think about it, he's been through a lot of heavy stuff and had to take on a ton of responsibility in his short life (in both cat and human terms). So when a pretty she-cat like Star Flower shows interest in him, of course he'd welcome the break from all the stress, however brief. And whether or not you like how he reacts when her betrayal is revealed, you have to admit it's rather understandable. That said, I hope he can find a way to eventually mend things with both Lightning Tail and Star Flower.
One Eye and Star Flower: One Eye was a spectacularly bad kitty – which I of course mean in a good way! He's not just a beast, he's a monster. I did have to wonder how Clear Sky could be so willing to initiate a cat whose name, appearance, and personality screams villain. More than that, I did not see the revelation that he was Star Flower's father coming. How could I, though? He not only murders Tom – he claws the snot out of Sparrow Fur, nearly killing her as well. How can Star Flower see anything loving and nurturing about such a vile cat? Speaking of whom, I'll admit I do kinda like Star Flower. Or at the very least I did before the climactic reveal, and still want to like her. If nothing else, I wanna know how she could be so loyal to One Eye, even if he was her father. Whatever the case, I'm curious to learn even more about her in the next two books.
Various Other Characters: Mud Paws, Mouse Ear, and Holly were great! I do wish they had a bit more personality, but I'll hopefully get more from each in the future. I love how Jagged Peak finally got to prove himself to Clear Sky – and that he's now a daddy! I really liked Lightning Tail's friendship with Thunder, even as I wanted to dismiss the former's skepticism at first. I feel so bad for Wind Runner and Gorse Fur now that they've lost a second kit, and to such an awful death at that. On the other hand, I was pleasantly surprised to learn Moth Flight is their daughter, and can't wait to read her solo adventure. I liked Slate and her connection to Gray Wing a lot. I was glad that River Ripple was willing to take him in. I was intrigued by Tall Shadow's interest in the marshes. Back to death though, Petal succumbing to the disease was utterly heartbreaking. Half Moon's death was expected but still genuinely sad. And though I feel a bit sorry for Sun Shadow, knowing he'll never meet his father – Moon Shadow – I was really excited when Quiet Rain decided to accompany him on the sun trail. She's gonna see her boys again!
Overall: While there were just a few tiny issues I had with this book in terms of story and characters, I still found it another great read! The lead characters will still likable and I was really invested in the mystery, despite having a bit of an idea of what the answer would turn out to be. And of course, it was really cool to see this early version of StarClan helping to form Thunder, Wind Runner, River Ripple, Tall Shadow, and Clear Sky into the founding Clan leaders they'll eventually become. I'm two-thirds of the way through the "Dawn of the Clans" arc and I can't wait to read the rest!
Story/Writing: How did I read this book in just two days?! Not that that's a bad thing. Far from it! First off, I gotta say it is interesting that this one is a little lower scale than the last. It felt needed, however, after such an explosive climax. I got the same feeling when I saw "Ant-Man and the Wasp" after the epic punch in the feels that was "Avengers: Infinity War." That said, there's still plenty to keep you on your toes! Every time someone got sick or even seemed sick I got really nervous, and felt the urgency along with the cats to find a cure and of course, the Blazing Star. I do wish the disease was a little more widespread and a few more characters got ill, to convey how serious this is. Not that it wasn't already but, hopefully you get my point. One other little nitpick of mine is that, like in "The First Battle," I didn't always know whose point of view I was reading from. But again, maybe that's just an issue of me reading a bit too fast. Still, when I get through a book in just two days, that alone is a pretty good sign that I liked it! I love how these women always pack their titles with content even though the synopsis of each may seem minimal at first.
Characters: The characters are all just as good as ever. They've all grown a lot in the last three books and I had just as much fun reading about how they continue to grow here. I am sad that certain beloved characters are now gone – but we also get to meet some new faces, both good and bad (morally)! Every decision, major or minor, felt integral to the plot, which goes to show how good these women are at setting up their stories and characters so that they really depend on each other.
Gray Wing: I once again really like Gray Wing's characterization, especially given everything that's happened in the last three books. He thinks he's holding everyone back – particularly Thunder and Jagged Peak – and even goes off to live with River Ripple for awhile, without telling anyone. But taking into account how much he's had to go through already, it's totally understandable. He feels like he's aged prematurely – mentally and physically – that he's not needed – at least, not in a way he considers useful – even though it's obvious, despite what some characters may say or do, that he's the one who's made the moor cats the heroes they are. Fortunately, he does find a way to still provide wisdom and guidance to some cats, while leaving room for others to grow.
Clear Sky: I'm so glad Clear Sky's gone back to being at least somewhat of a good guy. I still sometimes want to hit him upside the head, but also recognize the effort he's putting into making amends. He does continue to make mistakes and lapses in judgment – big time regarding the latter – but he immediately tries to set things right as best he can the moment he realizes he's done wrong. He's willing to put himself out in the open – in direct danger – to bait One Eye into a trap. He lets Jagged Peak prove himself to him by leading the second expedition to find the Blazing Star. He even calls Sparrow Fur one of the bravest cats he knows, even though she's a still only half-grown. Clear Sky may not be perfect, but he's probably become one of my favorite characters in this series so far.
Thunder: Once again, Thunder proves himself a great leader, even as he continues to grow into his role. I love how he finally seems to be getting along with his father. Some might say he acted a little stupidly in this book – specifically in his relationship with Star Flower. I actually found it pretty realistic. When you really think about it, he's been through a lot of heavy stuff and had to take on a ton of responsibility in his short life (in both cat and human terms). So when a pretty she-cat like Star Flower shows interest in him, of course he'd welcome the break from all the stress, however brief. And whether or not you like how he reacts when her betrayal is revealed, you have to admit it's rather understandable. That said, I hope he can find a way to eventually mend things with both Lightning Tail and Star Flower.
One Eye and Star Flower: One Eye was a spectacularly bad kitty – which I of course mean in a good way! He's not just a beast, he's a monster. I did have to wonder how Clear Sky could be so willing to initiate a cat whose name, appearance, and personality screams villain. More than that, I did not see the revelation that he was Star Flower's father coming. How could I, though? He not only murders Tom – he claws the snot out of Sparrow Fur, nearly killing her as well. How can Star Flower see anything loving and nurturing about such a vile cat? Speaking of whom, I'll admit I do kinda like Star Flower. Or at the very least I did before the climactic reveal, and still want to like her. If nothing else, I wanna know how she could be so loyal to One Eye, even if he was her father. Whatever the case, I'm curious to learn even more about her in the next two books.
Various Other Characters: Mud Paws, Mouse Ear, and Holly were great! I do wish they had a bit more personality, but I'll hopefully get more from each in the future. I love how Jagged Peak finally got to prove himself to Clear Sky – and that he's now a daddy! I really liked Lightning Tail's friendship with Thunder, even as I wanted to dismiss the former's skepticism at first. I feel so bad for Wind Runner and Gorse Fur now that they've lost a second kit, and to such an awful death at that. On the other hand, I was pleasantly surprised to learn Moth Flight is their daughter, and can't wait to read her solo adventure. I liked Slate and her connection to Gray Wing a lot. I was glad that River Ripple was willing to take him in. I was intrigued by Tall Shadow's interest in the marshes. Back to death though, Petal succumbing to the disease was utterly heartbreaking. Half Moon's death was expected but still genuinely sad. And though I feel a bit sorry for Sun Shadow, knowing he'll never meet his father – Moon Shadow – I was really excited when Quiet Rain decided to accompany him on the sun trail. She's gonna see her boys again!
Overall: While there were just a few tiny issues I had with this book in terms of story and characters, I still found it another great read! The lead characters will still likable and I was really invested in the mystery, despite having a bit of an idea of what the answer would turn out to be. And of course, it was really cool to see this early version of StarClan helping to form Thunder, Wind Runner, River Ripple, Tall Shadow, and Clear Sky into the founding Clan leaders they'll eventually become. I'm two-thirds of the way through the "Dawn of the Clans" arc and I can't wait to read the rest!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2025
i was warned this would be the worst book i would ever read, but honestly i kinda enjoyed it.
sure, they butchered their main villain with a redemption arc way too early on, only to pull the most one dimensional villain out of their ass, but at least shit happened, unlike the first 2 books (it’s nowhere near as good as the 3rd one i’m sorry)
gray wing did shit, good for him, clear sky was the filler pov honestly but he’s still my fav so i don’t mind. but. i could actually stand thunder!!!!! good job authors he actually did something in this book.
the plot of this was frankly insane, it did way too much and still managed to feel like filler. the prophecy was really fucking dumb even by warriors standards, but i did like the sickness subplot, it kinda deconstructed concepts like epidemics and war preparations for a kid to understand, which is honestly crazy but interesting to read about.
star flower was honestly a girlboss, she still has female side character syndrome but at least she didn’t get pregnant 2 seconds into the book (i love wind runner too but she was not a girl bossing in this one)
river ripples gay hippy commune was the highlight of this book honestly, he might be the best character to come out of this stupid series
there’s too many characters in this, so although they’re all interesting to some extent it’s hard to actually find the energy to care. i do love they’re all morally gray tho, that’s interesting for a children’s book.
i’m really confused as to what’s gonna happen in the next book bcs they literally already solved all the conflicts. can’t wait for them to pull another villain from their ass!
sure, they butchered their main villain with a redemption arc way too early on, only to pull the most one dimensional villain out of their ass, but at least shit happened, unlike the first 2 books (it’s nowhere near as good as the 3rd one i’m sorry)
gray wing did shit, good for him, clear sky was the filler pov honestly but he’s still my fav so i don’t mind. but. i could actually stand thunder!!!!! good job authors he actually did something in this book.
the plot of this was frankly insane, it did way too much and still managed to feel like filler. the prophecy was really fucking dumb even by warriors standards, but i did like the sickness subplot, it kinda deconstructed concepts like epidemics and war preparations for a kid to understand, which is honestly crazy but interesting to read about.
star flower was honestly a girlboss, she still has female side character syndrome but at least she didn’t get pregnant 2 seconds into the book (i love wind runner too but she was not a girl bossing in this one)
river ripples gay hippy commune was the highlight of this book honestly, he might be the best character to come out of this stupid series
there’s too many characters in this, so although they’re all interesting to some extent it’s hard to actually find the energy to care. i do love they’re all morally gray tho, that’s interesting for a children’s book.
i’m really confused as to what’s gonna happen in the next book bcs they literally already solved all the conflicts. can’t wait for them to pull another villain from their ass!
June 17, 2023
3.8 ⭐️
Trying to go for a no spoiler review here. I felt like compared to the other books, this one may have been too short and rather uneventful. All the events that happened in this book took about 1 or 2 chapters and the rest was just plot building. Didn’t also like the fact that new cats were introduced at the beginning yet they received barely any development, which absolutely includes One Eye.
And yet, it’s still refreshing to see Clear Sky and his cats carry on their uniting and kind nature from the previous book, gaining their well deserved redemption arc because this is what we all deserved amidst of whatever the hell is happening.
Quite uneventful and short, but it I hope it sets the tone for whatever’s about to come in the next couple of books!
Trying to go for a no spoiler review here. I felt like compared to the other books, this one may have been too short and rather uneventful. All the events that happened in this book took about 1 or 2 chapters and the rest was just plot building. Didn’t also like the fact that new cats were introduced at the beginning yet they received barely any development, which absolutely includes One Eye.
And yet, it’s still refreshing to see Clear Sky and his cats carry on their uniting and kind nature from the previous book, gaining their well deserved redemption arc because this is what we all deserved amidst of whatever the hell is happening.
Quite uneventful and short, but it I hope it sets the tone for whatever’s about to come in the next couple of books!
June 29, 2022
This one had a bit more ups and down, in terms of my engagement. At first I was not a fan of the Oneeye threat, which felt like it sort of came out of nowhere then ended. But thinking more about it, I realized that it allowed Clearsky the space to become a more interesting character, rather than just devolving into a villain. Not to mention how to deal with external dangers was the major theme of this book. Beyond that, creating community with rogues (and the other side of that being dangerous rogues) has been a consistent theme of this series, so in the end it worked for me.
May 1, 2025
the 4th book of the dawn of the clans series. So far I'm not getting bored with it. It amazes me that the storyline keeps surprising me every single time and that it's not predictable at all. I guess that's what I like about Warrior Cats a lot. This book was also a book that I could not put down. I read it on my way to work, during lunch break, everytime I had a chance. and after I finished it couldn't wait to start in the next one. And the bonus chapter..? loved it as well. If this is only the prequel series I'm curious to know what the main series will be like
Read
February 5, 2024i have read so many of these in the last 2 months and this was by far the worst of that whole group, i cannot believe the last book ended with the most brutal battle in this entire series, and then this was like a buddy cop with the two that were just enemies. the motivations are not strong enough for that quick of a change!!! also why are there two cats named one eye in a world where theres a million name possibilities
May 7, 2020
The sickness storyline could have been composed a little better - it just got sidelined - but the drama with One Eye YES! Give me more please!! I also read the majority of this with my own little kittypet <3 who tbh would not survive that warrior cat life :(
January 22, 2023
I just want to say Clear Sky is super annoying... And I really don’t get him sometimes…
I have been binge-reading the series. So everything is becoming a little bit of a blur. I will write my final series review for book six.
I have been binge-reading the series. So everything is becoming a little bit of a blur. I will write my final series review for book six.
April 13, 2018
I think this is a great book filled with awesomeness.
Read
January 16, 2019gotta say, i am liking this series a lot more than i originally thought i would
March 16, 2020
I had a ridiculously hard time getting through this book, but at least it’s over now, and I hope the next one holds my interest better.
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