Children’s Tale Fit for All Ages

Buried treasure. An ancient mystery. A race against time.
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Rating: 4 out of 5.

If you’re interested in clean, innocent fantasy-story with an atmospheric trip to the English seaside, Eve de Gruchy’s middle-grade book “The Wolf of Mist and Fire” will be just the soul vacation you need this winter.

About the Book

A tiny island, a bossy sister, a clueless uncle. May knew the half-term was going to be a challenge. And that was before she unearths an ancient coin that brings a mythic wolf, an Iron Age girl, and greedy treasure-hunters to her door. In a race against time, the children must bury their differences and solve the mystery – even when the quest for truth uncovers a shocking secret closer to home.

A gripping historical mystery of treasure, friendship, and secrets.

My Review

This is an adorable read for older children. The fantasy elements blend well with the historical fiction elements. The author uses the atmospheric seaside setting beautifully, whipping the stormy weather up into a climactic episode that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

The character development of the two sisters is especially lovely. A strained relationship from the start grows throughout the story, providing a beautiful family drama and sibling story – showing the importance of familial bonds and love. Both sisters are so sweet to their little brother, and it shows the strength of both of their characters in different ways. The bumbling adult trope is strong and present in this story. It’s not one of my favorite, but it is common.

The author blends in little known British history – especially outside of the area – in a way that shouldn’t bore younger readers, teaching them while still entertaining. Her world-building is fantastic. The setting was clear as day, and the children’s adventures filled my head as they traipsed the island in search of treasure.

Intended Audience

Adults and children alike will enjoy this story. My five-year-old even enjoyed some of it being read aloud to her. Though she considered some of it scary, so the eight to twelve category is probably correct. Though I will say that some scenes and words actually seemed advanced for the intended audience, but I’m not an expert on the age-group. It’s an interesting and educational read, with fast-paced fantasy and adventure elements.

Kids who already enjoy stories like Harry Potter and The Chronicles of Narnia will probably enjoy this tale as well. Adults who enjoy these will also enjoy reading this, either with their children or by themselves.

I received a free copy of this book as part of a book tour, conducted by Love Books Tours, in exchange for an honest review.

About the Author

​​​​​​​Eve de Gruchy is the author of “The Wolf of Mist and Fire.” She read English at Queens’ College, Cambridge, and dreamed of being a writer. First, attracted by the suits, she became a partner in a law firm and spent years writing long letters and documents. “The Wolf of Mist and Fire” was inspired by her time as a trustee of Jersey Heritage, when the largest Celtic coin hoard in the world was discovered in a field in Jersey.

She is currently working on a book for all ages which also combines her love of history, myth, and mystery.

She lives in the woods with her husband, three children, an ancient cat, and a willful dog.

Question of the Day

What would you do if you found ancient coins in a field?

For thoughts by other reviewers check out these other @LoveBookTours book tour hosts and their thoughts on this book!

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