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Wildsmith #1
Into the Dark Forest
When war threatens her beloved city, Rowan and her mother must flee to the Dark Forest, meeting Grandpa and his white wolf Arto for the first time. Though she misses her father, Rowan makes new friends - including a trio of powerful witches. When she rescues a baby dragon from poachers, she discovers the secret of her own identity: Rowan is a Wildsmith! Fostering a whole clutch of dragons, the summer speeds by. But when danger threatens, Rowan and her grandpa must call on all their friends for help.
176 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2023
28 people are currently reading
487 people want to read
About the author
Liz Flanagan
18 books52 followersLiz writes for children and young adults. She teaches creative writing, and lives in Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire, with her husband and two daughters. She used to be Centre Director at the Ted Hughes Arvon Centre, and previously worked in children's book publishing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
February 5, 2023
In a Nutshell: The perfect book for little lovers of adventure and dragons. Loads of thrills, amazing animals and great values. Perfect for tweens.
Story Synopsis:
Think of everything good that can be present in a children’s adventure story, and most of those ingredients are present in this book. You have a charming protagonist who speaks her mind and isn’t afraid to trust her instinct or to do what’s right. You have some amazing little dragons. (Dragons are always so much fun!) You have a lot of emotional scenes and a couple of worrisome ones. You have plenty of action and adventure and thrilling chases and close escapes. You have fast-paced writing and amazing descriptions. And you have more than enough of magical embellishments. The book is almost perfect!
I don’t believe that every children’s book MUST come with a moral/message. Some books can be just entertaining and that’s more than enough. However, this book delivers on both counts. Through the delightful plot, the book touches upon the need for conservation, animal welfare, and the importance of nature. I didn’t want this to become a war story, and thankfully, the war is not present except in the background.
The only point which might have worked better for me were the illustrations. To be honest, after a point, I stopped looking at the illustrations because they were too tiny on my Kindle screen and I didn’t stop to enlarge each image as the story was captivating enough to keep me happy. This won’t be a problem in the paperback. The only thing I can tell you for sure is that the illustrations were in B&W.
This is the first of a planned Wildsmith series. The first book is complete in itself, though there are some tracks left unresolved. These might be tackled in the upcoming books. Time will tell.
(You might be wondering what ‘Wildsmith’ indicates. Is it a place? A person? An occupation? Read the book to find out! My lips are sealed.)
All in all, this is an MG fantasy that is an enjoyable read, delivering on every promise it makes through that striking cover. Absolutely and wholeheartedly recommended. You bet I am gonna sign myself up for every possible sequel in the series!
4.5 stars.
My thanks to UCLan Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC of “Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
Story Synopsis:
When there’s new of war coming to her city, Rowan, a curious and gutsy little girl, and her mother go to live with her maternal grandfather, who lives on the outskirts of the Dark Forest, which was quite stranger as Rowan didn’t even know until then that she had a grandfather. However, she soon realises that her grandfather’s existence was not the only secret kept from her. Thus begins an adventure filled with dragons and witches and hunters and brave children.
Think of everything good that can be present in a children’s adventure story, and most of those ingredients are present in this book. You have a charming protagonist who speaks her mind and isn’t afraid to trust her instinct or to do what’s right. You have some amazing little dragons. (Dragons are always so much fun!) You have a lot of emotional scenes and a couple of worrisome ones. You have plenty of action and adventure and thrilling chases and close escapes. You have fast-paced writing and amazing descriptions. And you have more than enough of magical embellishments. The book is almost perfect!
I don’t believe that every children’s book MUST come with a moral/message. Some books can be just entertaining and that’s more than enough. However, this book delivers on both counts. Through the delightful plot, the book touches upon the need for conservation, animal welfare, and the importance of nature. I didn’t want this to become a war story, and thankfully, the war is not present except in the background.
The only point which might have worked better for me were the illustrations. To be honest, after a point, I stopped looking at the illustrations because they were too tiny on my Kindle screen and I didn’t stop to enlarge each image as the story was captivating enough to keep me happy. This won’t be a problem in the paperback. The only thing I can tell you for sure is that the illustrations were in B&W.
This is the first of a planned Wildsmith series. The first book is complete in itself, though there are some tracks left unresolved. These might be tackled in the upcoming books. Time will tell.
(You might be wondering what ‘Wildsmith’ indicates. Is it a place? A person? An occupation? Read the book to find out! My lips are sealed.)
All in all, this is an MG fantasy that is an enjoyable read, delivering on every promise it makes through that striking cover. Absolutely and wholeheartedly recommended. You bet I am gonna sign myself up for every possible sequel in the series!
4.5 stars.
My thanks to UCLan Publishing and NetGalley for the DRC of “Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest”. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
———————————————
Connect with me through:
My Blog | The StoryGraph | Facebook | Twitter
November 14, 2022
Publication Date: 2nd Feb 2023
4.5 Stars
One Liner: Such a heartwarming tale!
Rowan and her mother flee into the Dark Forest when war threatens their city, Holderby, Gallren. They meet Grandpa Inigo Webster and Arto, a white wolf, in the forest. Even as Rowan misses her dad, she becomes friends with dragons and powerful witches in the Dark Forest. She also discovers a secret about herself. Rowan is a Wildsmith born to help and protect the forest.
Life goes on until a sudden threat puts the place in danger. Rowan, her grandpa, and everyone they know has to join forces to fight the danger. Can they succeed in their mission?
My Thoughts:
This is a cute little book that sets the stage for Rowan to find out about her mother’s past and discover her own abilities in the process.
The story works as a standalone and doesn’t have a cliffhanger. However, we know that the danger is still lurking in the corners.
Each chapter is short, pacy, and has enough descriptions to paint a picture of the setting and characters.
The book has a few black-and-white illustrations. Some are real cute, and a few not as much. Also, there’s an inconsistency in the hairstyles of a couple of characters (not that cannot be edited).
Given the storyline and page count, the plot does feel a little rushed. That said, the book is for children and is suitable for their age group. It keeps the intrigue and emotions flowing.
The book even made me teary-eyed in a couple of places. It deals with tough topics like war, poaching, etc. But it is the other scenes that will make the reader emotional.
To summarize, Into the Dark Forest is a heartwarming and adorable story of little Rowan and dragons. Looking forward to the next part with another adventure and more magical powers. The cover is perfect for the book.
Thank you, NetGalley and UCLan Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#WildsmithIntotheDarkForest #NetGalley
4.5 Stars
One Liner: Such a heartwarming tale!
Rowan and her mother flee into the Dark Forest when war threatens their city, Holderby, Gallren. They meet Grandpa Inigo Webster and Arto, a white wolf, in the forest. Even as Rowan misses her dad, she becomes friends with dragons and powerful witches in the Dark Forest. She also discovers a secret about herself. Rowan is a Wildsmith born to help and protect the forest.
Life goes on until a sudden threat puts the place in danger. Rowan, her grandpa, and everyone they know has to join forces to fight the danger. Can they succeed in their mission?
My Thoughts:
This is a cute little book that sets the stage for Rowan to find out about her mother’s past and discover her own abilities in the process.
The story works as a standalone and doesn’t have a cliffhanger. However, we know that the danger is still lurking in the corners.
Each chapter is short, pacy, and has enough descriptions to paint a picture of the setting and characters.
The book has a few black-and-white illustrations. Some are real cute, and a few not as much. Also, there’s an inconsistency in the hairstyles of a couple of characters (not that cannot be edited).
Given the storyline and page count, the plot does feel a little rushed. That said, the book is for children and is suitable for their age group. It keeps the intrigue and emotions flowing.
The book even made me teary-eyed in a couple of places. It deals with tough topics like war, poaching, etc. But it is the other scenes that will make the reader emotional.
To summarize, Into the Dark Forest is a heartwarming and adorable story of little Rowan and dragons. Looking forward to the next part with another adventure and more magical powers. The cover is perfect for the book.
Thank you, NetGalley and UCLan Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#WildsmithIntotheDarkForest #NetGalley
March 17, 2025
3.75 rounded up
a cute, easy, meaningful read about animal/wildlife conservation and standing up for what you believe in. most of the over-arching questions were left unanswered so i'm excited to read the rest of the series. i think best for 8/9 year old's as the language isn't too difficult and toes the line of show/tell.
a cute, easy, meaningful read about animal/wildlife conservation and standing up for what you believe in. most of the over-arching questions were left unanswered so i'm excited to read the rest of the series. i think best for 8/9 year old's as the language isn't too difficult and toes the line of show/tell.
December 26, 2023
A sweet and fun fantasy adventure with gorgeous illustrations and a fabulous message about conservation and poaching. A perfect read for animal lovers and anyone looking for an action packed story with a lovable cast of characters and the world’s most adorable baby dragons.
August 9, 2024
This was such a lovely children's book. Perfect for younger readers, with some mild peril, magic and dragons. The main character has a beautiful relationship with others around her and discovering a little bit more about her family and the magic around her. The illustrations were lovely and I only wish there were a few more as the second half with most of the action had none.
This is the perfect start to a series to encourage younger readers into the fantasy world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to Netgalley, UCLan Publishing and the author.
This is the perfect start to a series to encourage younger readers into the fantasy world.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to Netgalley, UCLan Publishing and the author.
February 11, 2024
I think this is a great book, I love that the little red dragons all love having time with Leaf and the three main characters. I do think that it could improve, for example I find it confusing that she MISSES the other two when they only just met and were only apart for a few days.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2024
Really sweet middlegrade book, and I absolutely loved all the illustrations throughout.
January 17, 2025
Very cute. Made me feel that cosy nostalgia for being a little girl curled up with a book.
February 2, 2023
Great story for those eight years and upward who love a magical creature & especially a dragon! Illustrated by one of my favourites - Joe Todd Stanton
June 8, 2023
Magical creatures come to life in this delightful story for middle grade readers, along with them there is a good dose of magic, plenty of friendship building, misunderstandings, make-ups and beak-ups, themes of wildlife conservation and a love of animals, fostering them and of course the wild. The story feels warm, cosy, familiar and yet wonderfully different. Readers will feel enchanted by the imaginative descriptions of the animals they will meet, they will love all the adventure that takes place, they will be turning the pages with gusto waiting to hear what is going to happen. Plus, as this is the first title, to be followed by Wildsmith: City of Secrets coming in April every reader will be ready and waiting to see what will come next.
Rowan and her mother have to leave the city as war looms, they flee to the Dark Forest where Rowan meets Grandpa and his wolf Arto for the first time. In the process of making new friends Rowan discovers there are dragons, witches and that her grandfather is a Wildsmith who can heal animals. Soon we learn that Rowan has a secret identity that even she did not know of! Rowan is a brave character whose story positively sparkles with love, adventure and various elements of fantasy. Liz Flanagan has a true flair for this type of storytelling and there are some gorgeous illustrations throughout thanks to Joe Tood-Stanton. Published by UCLan this is a small book but a big adventure with so much promise for the next part of the series.
Rowan and her mother have to leave the city as war looms, they flee to the Dark Forest where Rowan meets Grandpa and his wolf Arto for the first time. In the process of making new friends Rowan discovers there are dragons, witches and that her grandfather is a Wildsmith who can heal animals. Soon we learn that Rowan has a secret identity that even she did not know of! Rowan is a brave character whose story positively sparkles with love, adventure and various elements of fantasy. Liz Flanagan has a true flair for this type of storytelling and there are some gorgeous illustrations throughout thanks to Joe Tood-Stanton. Published by UCLan this is a small book but a big adventure with so much promise for the next part of the series.
June 29, 2024
What a glorious book cover which promises a magically woven story. And this book truly delivers! The main character, Rowan is brave and caring and when her world is turned upside down she learns of a whole new way of life. And the magical creatures that inhabit that world. I cannot wait to read the sequel! Perfect for fans of Hilda!
January 11, 2023
I downloaded this book through NetGalley for an honest review.
This wholesome children’s story follows Rowan, who moves to live with her grandpa in the Dark Forest. In doing so she meets some new friends, some of which are baby dragons! As she nurses a dragon back to health, she learns that she may have a magical connection to animals. The story is an enchanting, cozy tale which teaches children the importance of caring for animals. I would have absolutely loved this story when I was younger, but am glad that I’ve been able to read it now.
The magic in this story was so lovely to read about since it was linked to animals in need of protection. It’s a story of self-discovery as Rowan learns that she’s a Wildsmith, and how she can put her powers to good use. It’s clear that she’s a very selfless character, often putting the dragons’ needs before herself even if it means risking getting hurt. Through this she learns to listen to those around her, whilst they also commend her bravery. There’s a strong theme of environmentalism and protecting the world and creatures around you, which will definitely be an important lesson to children today.
This is a brilliant introduction to fantasy for young children, as the descriptions of the forest setting and the dragons will no doubt capture their imaginations. I could really visualise the story and especially the dragons, which were brought to life by the adorable illustrations. I can imagine that if I wanted one of the dragons for myself, children definitely will! The story was fast-paced without rushing through Rowan’s character development or skimming the valuable lessons being taught. This is a heartwarming tale that will show children just how magical reading can be!
This wholesome children’s story follows Rowan, who moves to live with her grandpa in the Dark Forest. In doing so she meets some new friends, some of which are baby dragons! As she nurses a dragon back to health, she learns that she may have a magical connection to animals. The story is an enchanting, cozy tale which teaches children the importance of caring for animals. I would have absolutely loved this story when I was younger, but am glad that I’ve been able to read it now.
The magic in this story was so lovely to read about since it was linked to animals in need of protection. It’s a story of self-discovery as Rowan learns that she’s a Wildsmith, and how she can put her powers to good use. It’s clear that she’s a very selfless character, often putting the dragons’ needs before herself even if it means risking getting hurt. Through this she learns to listen to those around her, whilst they also commend her bravery. There’s a strong theme of environmentalism and protecting the world and creatures around you, which will definitely be an important lesson to children today.
This is a brilliant introduction to fantasy for young children, as the descriptions of the forest setting and the dragons will no doubt capture their imaginations. I could really visualise the story and especially the dragons, which were brought to life by the adorable illustrations. I can imagine that if I wanted one of the dragons for myself, children definitely will! The story was fast-paced without rushing through Rowan’s character development or skimming the valuable lessons being taught. This is a heartwarming tale that will show children just how magical reading can be!
March 25, 2023
Wildsmith
By Liz Flanagan
Published by UCLan Publishing
This young, adventurous tale of fantasy mixed with the power of witchcraft will hook you in from the offset.
When war threatens her home and city, Rowan and her mother must flee. Meeting her Grandpa and his white wolf Arto for the first time, Rowan discovers everything is not quite as it seems. Despite missing her father, she quickly makes new friends, new discoveries and craves to understand what a Wildsmith must do. How has she never been told?
Full of wolves, witches and dragons being poached, Rowan must stay strong and determined to save these creatures lives from the dangers ahead. Learning from within and discovering what really matters, Rowan begins to question her own powers too. Could Rowan really be a wildsmith?
Liz Flanagan’s style of fantasy will nurture a love a reading for anyone who enjoys a journey through the wilderness whilst flying with dragons.
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
By Liz Flanagan
Published by UCLan Publishing
This young, adventurous tale of fantasy mixed with the power of witchcraft will hook you in from the offset.
When war threatens her home and city, Rowan and her mother must flee. Meeting her Grandpa and his white wolf Arto for the first time, Rowan discovers everything is not quite as it seems. Despite missing her father, she quickly makes new friends, new discoveries and craves to understand what a Wildsmith must do. How has she never been told?
Full of wolves, witches and dragons being poached, Rowan must stay strong and determined to save these creatures lives from the dangers ahead. Learning from within and discovering what really matters, Rowan begins to question her own powers too. Could Rowan really be a wildsmith?
Liz Flanagan’s style of fantasy will nurture a love a reading for anyone who enjoys a journey through the wilderness whilst flying with dragons.
Joanne Bardgett - teacher of littlies, lover of Children’s literature.
#Netgallery
July 7, 2025
"Here, she knew nothing, knew no one. She didn't like that feeling, and all of the sudden she needed to escape."
War, Rowan and her mom have to relocate to her grandpa's home, which she never met. There she discovers he's a wildsmith ! And... She's one too ! Dragons, witches, poachers, a mysterious forest...
It's really cute, I smiled (almost) all along the listening of the audiobook.
Rowan is courageous and stands up for herself and for what she believes in, protecting the vulnerable. I admire her character and personality. She is fierce and protective. True to herself. One day she stumbles upon a baby dragon and decides to care for it... She rescues it from poachers who were threatening.
"The dragon was the size of a cat, and as heavy. It was struggling to balance, and she was filled with protectiveness for this little creature."
It's an uplifting story, plus I really am in my dragon phase, and I was so pleased to follow along their adventures with those magical creatures.
#IntoTheDarkForest #Netgalley
War, Rowan and her mom have to relocate to her grandpa's home, which she never met. There she discovers he's a wildsmith ! And... She's one too ! Dragons, witches, poachers, a mysterious forest...
It's really cute, I smiled (almost) all along the listening of the audiobook.
Rowan is courageous and stands up for herself and for what she believes in, protecting the vulnerable. I admire her character and personality. She is fierce and protective. True to herself. One day she stumbles upon a baby dragon and decides to care for it... She rescues it from poachers who were threatening.
"The dragon was the size of a cat, and as heavy. It was struggling to balance, and she was filled with protectiveness for this little creature."
It's an uplifting story, plus I really am in my dragon phase, and I was so pleased to follow along their adventures with those magical creatures.
#IntoTheDarkForest #Netgalley
August 4, 2025
I came across "Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest" as a recommendation for individuals with dyslexia. The book is designed to minimise visual stress and improve readability, and it accomplishes this beautifully.
In terms of plot, "Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest" is a heartwarming tale that sets the stage for what appears to be a larger story.
When news of an impending war reaches the medieval city of Holderby, Rowan, a brave and gritty girl, finds herself fleeing with her mom to the Dark Forest.
Rowan learns about her mother’s past, makes new friends, and finds herself in the middle of some dangerous activities, uncovering something very important about herself.
Although we thought the story was a bit rushed and the plot could have included more interesting developments, we truly enjoyed the overall narrative, particularly the relationships between the human and magical characters.
A lovely recommendation for brave readers who love animals and cute magic.
Ages 7-10 (including dyslexic readers)
In terms of plot, "Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest" is a heartwarming tale that sets the stage for what appears to be a larger story.
When news of an impending war reaches the medieval city of Holderby, Rowan, a brave and gritty girl, finds herself fleeing with her mom to the Dark Forest.
Rowan learns about her mother’s past, makes new friends, and finds herself in the middle of some dangerous activities, uncovering something very important about herself.
Although we thought the story was a bit rushed and the plot could have included more interesting developments, we truly enjoyed the overall narrative, particularly the relationships between the human and magical characters.
A lovely recommendation for brave readers who love animals and cute magic.
Ages 7-10 (including dyslexic readers)
January 19, 2025
Things I loved:
The illustrations!
Arto the wolf, Leaf the dragon, all the animals.
Rowan climbing things.
Grandpa's library and gentle, trusting manner.
Things I appreciated:
Rowan not giving up on the idea of becoming friends with someone even though they started off on the wrong foot.
The way the author could describe emotions in very simple words.
Rowan's Grandpa not telling Rowan to hurry up and stop being sad, but telling her it's appropriate to take time to miss animals before going and helping others.
Rowan talked and thought the way a young child talks. I imagined Rowan being about 7-9 years old.
The writing, action, level of drama, and length of chapter feel well-matched to about that age.
As an adult, it felt simple, a very light read, but I know I would have absolutely adored this series as a kid, so I feel comfortable giving it 5 stars in honor of my past self. I strongly recommend it.
The illustrations!
Arto the wolf, Leaf the dragon, all the animals.
Rowan climbing things.
Grandpa's library and gentle, trusting manner.
Things I appreciated:
Rowan not giving up on the idea of becoming friends with someone even though they started off on the wrong foot.
The way the author could describe emotions in very simple words.
Rowan's Grandpa not telling Rowan to hurry up and stop being sad, but telling her it's appropriate to take time to miss animals before going and helping others.
Rowan talked and thought the way a young child talks. I imagined Rowan being about 7-9 years old.
The writing, action, level of drama, and length of chapter feel well-matched to about that age.
As an adult, it felt simple, a very light read, but I know I would have absolutely adored this series as a kid, so I feel comfortable giving it 5 stars in honor of my past self. I strongly recommend it.
February 18, 2023
What a wonderful delight of a read for young readers. Wildsmith: Into the Dark Forest is a chapter book for children of around 7+. You could absolutely read this to younger children too. For those who love magic, animals and developing independence this is the perfect book. I'm so excited that this book is to be a series as it's a brilliant genre for this age.
The first Wildsmith sees young Rowan and her mother fleeing from her home when war is on their doorstep. They're forced to leave her father behind. Soon they are in a strange land and meeting a Grandpa she never knew she had. In this strange place there are magical creatures that Rowan has never encountered before yet has a strange affinity to. Poachers are threatening the lives of those close to her. There's dragons and witches and plenty of magic and blossoming friendship.
Absolutely loved it and would highly recommend.
The first Wildsmith sees young Rowan and her mother fleeing from her home when war is on their doorstep. They're forced to leave her father behind. Soon they are in a strange land and meeting a Grandpa she never knew she had. In this strange place there are magical creatures that Rowan has never encountered before yet has a strange affinity to. Poachers are threatening the lives of those close to her. There's dragons and witches and plenty of magic and blossoming friendship.
Absolutely loved it and would highly recommend.
September 20, 2024
With danger coming to their town Rowan and her mom leave for her grandfather’s place in the wild woods. Rowan never even knew she had a grandfather and knows nothing about the wild woods with its very scary noises at night. Rowan gets the courage to go into the woods and finds a baby dragon whose mother was taken by poachers. Meeting her neighbors’ children doesn’t go so well at first as she is jealous of their relation with grandfather this is also when she finds out she is a wildsmith like her grandfather, she can talk to and take care of animals.
This is a wonderful book for anyone. It is a great story of coming of age, and being separated from a parent, and doing what is right even if it can be scary to stand up against people bigger then you. I wasn’t sure I would like the book at first but it really is a wonderful book.
This review copy was supplied by Edelweiss
This is a wonderful book for anyone. It is a great story of coming of age, and being separated from a parent, and doing what is right even if it can be scary to stand up against people bigger then you. I wasn’t sure I would like the book at first but it really is a wonderful book.
This review copy was supplied by Edelweiss
January 23, 2023
A great read for children aged 8 upwards. Wildsmith tells the story of Rowan who has to flee her city with her mother because war is coming. They go live with her grandpa who Rowan learns is a Wildsmith. He can communicate with magical creatures from dragons to witches and he is a protector of the dark forest. Rowan learns quickly the threat it is under when she sees hunters capture a dragon, leaving its newly hatched baby behind. Rowan, along with her new friends Will and Cam have to help protect the creatures from further hunters and Rowan learns something amazing about herself. The short chapters, pace and overall length of the book will really appeal to those children who are becoming more confident readers and anyone who loves a good story and magic, magical creatures and special powers. Cannot wait for Rowan's next adventure!
January 10, 2024
Absolutely adored this piece by Liz Flanagan! A wondrous mixture of magic, animals, witches and wilderness, and BABY DRAGONS! This was a wonderful read! Perfect to read aloud, with a parent or alone. I found it was a charismatic read, which had wonderfully colorful descriptions and storytelling page after page! I loved the illustrations of the witches particularly. Thank you to the publishers for my copy. This is now my GO-TO for parents wanting something to read aloud with children around 4 and up! Also a really good book for those 5-8s who may be starting to adventure in to lone reading as it’s such a gripping story with sweet characters! And again, BABY DRAGONS! Can’t wait to see how the story continues for Rowan!
December 6, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Liz Flanagan, and Brilliance Publishing for the ARC audio. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was such a fun read and I loved that I could share my enjoyment of dragons, fantasy worlds, strong female characters, animal activism, and fantastical magic with my daughter in a way that she and I could truly enjoy together. It’s so important to see strong, young female role models who are courageously fighting for what they believe in and doing what’s right even in difficult circumstances. Rowan set a great example of being courageous and protecting those around her even at the risk of her own peril.
For moms who love Forth Wing, ToG, and When The Moon Hatched this is the perfect fantasy starter book for your children.
This book was such a fun read and I loved that I could share my enjoyment of dragons, fantasy worlds, strong female characters, animal activism, and fantastical magic with my daughter in a way that she and I could truly enjoy together. It’s so important to see strong, young female role models who are courageously fighting for what they believe in and doing what’s right even in difficult circumstances. Rowan set a great example of being courageous and protecting those around her even at the risk of her own peril.
For moms who love Forth Wing, ToG, and When The Moon Hatched this is the perfect fantasy starter book for your children.
August 14, 2025
What a beautiful, magical filled book.
Aimed at ages 5-8, Wildsmith is the first in a series about Rowan, who to escape war, moves with her mum to the forest to live with her grandpa and his wolf. Whilst there she discovers that she can communicate with animals & dragons and that she is a Wildsmith. Adventure & peril unfold as poachers try to steal the dragons. The book has real heart with messages about living in harmony with nature.
A aged 7 says: I loved Rowan and the Wolf-Arto, but Leaf the green dragon was my favourite. I did not like the poachers! It was very exciting! I can’t wait to read the next one.
Parents: A lovely heart warming tale that is actually quite complex with excellent messages about nature and kindness.
Aimed at ages 5-8, Wildsmith is the first in a series about Rowan, who to escape war, moves with her mum to the forest to live with her grandpa and his wolf. Whilst there she discovers that she can communicate with animals & dragons and that she is a Wildsmith. Adventure & peril unfold as poachers try to steal the dragons. The book has real heart with messages about living in harmony with nature.
A aged 7 says: I loved Rowan and the Wolf-Arto, but Leaf the green dragon was my favourite. I did not like the poachers! It was very exciting! I can’t wait to read the next one.
Parents: A lovely heart warming tale that is actually quite complex with excellent messages about nature and kindness.
March 22, 2023
Oh I loved this book so much!! The fact that there are no less than 5 cute baby dragons in it did not influence that at all , honest 😀 A wonderful, magical middle grade story , with great illustrations by Joe Todd-Stanton - do look out for the picture of the wildsmith library - this book would make a popular addition to any primary school library. I usually donate MG books I've read to a local primary but I'm afraid they're not getting this one, my granddaughter is only 2 but when she's of an age to read this herself she will find it waiting on my bookshelf for her and I'm sure she will be as enchanted by it as I am.
January 26, 2024
Rowan lives in a big city with everything very familiar to her. When war comes to the place, she has to leave her home and her dad and go to her grandfather's house along with her mother.
Although she is sad and angry, there, she learns many different things, including the secrets of the Dark Forest, a magical place with magical creatures that are protected by the Wildsmith!
Adorable story with lovely illustrations (which was the main reason I chose the book! I ♥️ Joe Todd-Stanton work!). Chapters are 5/6 pages long, which makes reading it very light! Kids who are into fantasy-like adventures will enjoy it a lot!
Although she is sad and angry, there, she learns many different things, including the secrets of the Dark Forest, a magical place with magical creatures that are protected by the Wildsmith!
Adorable story with lovely illustrations (which was the main reason I chose the book! I ♥️ Joe Todd-Stanton work!). Chapters are 5/6 pages long, which makes reading it very light! Kids who are into fantasy-like adventures will enjoy it a lot!
October 25, 2024
3.5. I think this will be a lovely choice for fans of Zoey & Sassafras. I like that it is shorter and straightforward--in the vein of Soontornvat's Legends of Lotus Island fantasy series for younger readers. It's nice to have new dragon book on the shelves.
it wasn't the smoothest reading as Rowan felt a bit all over the place, but the plot was determined to click along and I think young readers will appreciate the pacing. It definitely reads young--as it should and the premise is too good to pass up.
the accompanying illustrations are great.
thanks to the Publisher and Edelweiss+ for the eARC
it wasn't the smoothest reading as Rowan felt a bit all over the place, but the plot was determined to click along and I think young readers will appreciate the pacing. It definitely reads young--as it should and the premise is too good to pass up.
the accompanying illustrations are great.
thanks to the Publisher and Edelweiss+ for the eARC
December 9, 2024
Into the Dark Forest is a fantastic start to a chapter book series about a girl who discovers she can speak to mystical animals. I really liked this one. It is very fast-paced and would be perfect for kiddos who are just starting to read chapter books. I loved the descriptions of the dragons & all of the fantasy elements. Plus, that cover is fantastic!
Thanks to NetGalley, Liz Flanagan, and Brilliance Publishing for the chance to read and review. My opinions are my own.
Note: I was provided the audiobook in exchange for my opinion. The narrator did a fantastic job with each of the characters' voices, and I easily found myself drawn into the story. Such a fun listen!
Thanks to NetGalley, Liz Flanagan, and Brilliance Publishing for the chance to read and review. My opinions are my own.
Note: I was provided the audiobook in exchange for my opinion. The narrator did a fantastic job with each of the characters' voices, and I easily found myself drawn into the story. Such a fun listen!
February 27, 2023
If you're looking for a cute evening read, then this is the book for you. The main character is so loveable... not to mention the baby dragons and a very loyal wolf. This is a story full of adventure, friendship, love, and learning. The illustrations are adorable, the story is quick paced, and it flows easily. The world created is one that knows no limits, and I can't wait to see what the author continues to create. Aimed at younger readers, this is a reasonably short story yet fun for all ages.
September 18, 2023
Read for work. What a cosy read!!!! A charming and sweet little story with much more bite than I was expecting. War, jealousy, cruelty to animals, and the butter-sweet feeling of letting go. The representation in this is also excellent, with a wonderful, powerful and varied cast of characters. I loved the whole vibe. I was only anticipating reading book one for our young readers book club , but may well end up reading more. A gorgeous book, with precious illustrations, and a gripping plot. Can’t wait to discover what happens next.
December 8, 2024
A perfect fantasy book for the young readers of the world or if you are a fantasy lover yourself and wanting you young ones to give fantasy a go - this is a great one to pick up, to start them off in their journey 🧙🏼♀️🐉
It is full of adventure, with witches, magic and dragons. It’s a story of family, friendship, teamwork, fighting for what’s right and caring for animals and nature.
Thank-you @brilliancepublishing @netgalley and Liz for this Audio Advanced Readers Copy, in exchange for an honest review.
It is full of adventure, with witches, magic and dragons. It’s a story of family, friendship, teamwork, fighting for what’s right and caring for animals and nature.
Thank-you @brilliancepublishing @netgalley and Liz for this Audio Advanced Readers Copy, in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2022
What I really enjoyed about this book is the environmental theme that runs through it even thought it's all related to magical, mythical creatures. Rowan has to leave her home because of the threat of war. She and her mother go to stay with a grandfather she didn't know existed. While there she makes some pretty big discoveries, including the importance of the natural world. I love the conservation message in this book and I think it would be a great addition to any book corner.
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