The Crowns of Croswald
The Crowns of Croswald by D.E. Night is a spellbinding middle-grade fantasy that whisks readers away to a vibrant, enchanting world brimming with magic, mystery, and heart. As the first installment in the four-book Croswald series, this novel introduces us to Ivy Lovely, a sixteen-year-old scaldrony maid whose life takes a fantastical turn when she crosses a magical boundary and discovers her hidden powers. What follows is a delightful coming-of-age tale that blends the nostalgic charm of Harry Potter, the whimsical wonder of Alice in Wonderland, and the adventurous spirit of Percy Jackson, while carving out its own unique identity. With its imaginative world-building, lovable characters, and a magic system that celebrates creativity, this book is a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts of all ages.
A Captivating Premise and Relatable Heroine
From the opening pages, The Crowns of Croswald hooks readers with its intriguing premise. Ivy Lovely, our protagonist, has spent her life in the mundane confines of Castle Plum, tending to scaldrons—adorable, fire-breathing dragons that serve as kitchen ovens. Unaware of her own magical potential, Ivy’s world is one of drudgery and isolation, surrounded by slurry trees that suppress magic. When an unexpected incident forces her to flee beyond the castle’s enchanted boundary, Ivy’s latent powers awaken, and she is swept away to the Halls of Ivy, a prestigious magical school where students hone their abilities as scrivenists or royals. This classic “hidden hero” trope is executed with freshness and charm, making Ivy’s journey of self-discovery both relatable and inspiring.
Ivy is a standout protagonist—curious, brave, and endearingly imperfect. At sixteen, she’s older than the typical middle-grade hero, which allows Night to explore more mature themes like identity, belonging, and destiny without losing the lighthearted tone that appeals to younger readers. Ivy’s mix of shyness and determination makes her easy to root for, whether she’s navigating the challenges of magical school or unraveling the mysteries of her past. Her growth from a timid maid to a confident young scrivenist is heartwarming, and her humorous missteps—like accidentally causing magical mishaps—add a layer of authenticity that keeps her grounded.
A Rich and Imaginative World
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its vivid world-building. The kingdom of Croswald is a feast for the imagination, filled with quirky creatures, magical artifacts, and enchanting locations. From hairies—glowing, furry fairies that light the lamps of Croswald—to porcupines that provide quills for scrivenists, Night’s creativity knows no bounds. The magical school, the Halls of Ivy, is a character in its own right, with ghostly cooks, a jester-run lunchroom, and a room where forgotten things are erased from memory. These whimsical details evoke the charm of Hogwarts while feeling distinctly original.
The magic system is particularly noteworthy. Unlike traditional wands, Croswald’s magic revolves around mystical gems and quills. Royals draw power from the stones in their crowns, while scrivenists channel their magic through their blood and sketching skills, creating spells with artistic flair. This emphasis on creativity and writing is a refreshing twist, celebrating the power of imagination and storytelling. Night’s descriptions of magical teas, potions, and mythical creatures like cabby beasts (giant creatures with their own weather systems) add depth and texture to the world, making it a place readers will long to revisit.
Engaging Plot and Themes
The plot of The Crowns of Croswald is a rollicking adventure that balances action, mystery, and character development. As Ivy learns to control her magic, she uncovers secrets about her past and the enigmatic Derwin Edgar Night, a scrivenist who haunts her dreams and holds the key to her destiny. The looming threat of the Dark Queen and her Cloaked Brood adds a layer of suspense, keeping readers on edge as Ivy and her friends navigate danger and intrigue. While some have noted that the pacing can be uneven, with slower moments giving way to rapid-fire action, this only enhances the novel’s addictive quality, as each twist and turn leaves you eager for more.
The story explores timeless themes that resonate with readers of all ages. Ivy’s journey of self-discovery is at the heart of the narrative, as she grapples with questions of identity and belonging. The novel also touches on friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil, all woven into the story with a light touch that never feels heavy-handed. For younger readers, these themes are accessible and empowering, while older readers will appreciate the deeper layers, such as the subtle nods to grief and abandonment.
Charming Characters and Nostalgic Vibes
The supporting cast is a highlight, bringing warmth and humor to the story. Ivy’s friends, including the loyal Rebecca and the charming Fyn, add depth to her journey, their friendships blossoming through shared adventures. Humboldt, the tiny scaldron who accompanies Ivy, is an absolute delight, stealing scenes with his quirky personality and unwavering loyalty. The nod to Harry Potter is undeniable—a magical school, a chosen-one narrative, and an evil force lurking in the shadows—but Night pays homage without imitation, infusing Croswald with its own magic. Fans of Harry Potter will feel a nostalgic thrill, but the story stands on its own as a unique and captivating tale.
A Few Minor Flaws, But a Joyful Read
While The Crowns of Croswald is a triumph, it’s not without minor imperfections. Some readers have pointed out that the world-building, while rich, could delve deeper into the kingdom’s history or the intricacies of the magic system. The plot’s predictability in places might not surprise seasoned fantasy readers, but these moments are overshadowed by the story’s charm and creativity. For its target audience—tweens and teens aged 9-13—these issues are unlikely to detract from the overall enjoyment.
Why You Should Read It
The Crowns of Croswald is a magical, heartwarming adventure that captures the wonder of discovering one’s own potential. D.E. Night has crafted a world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a heroine who inspires and a story that enchants. Whether you’re a young reader diving into fantasy for the first time or an adult seeking a nostalgic escape, this book delivers. Its blend of whimsy, mystery, and magic makes it an ideal read-aloud for families or a cozy solo read. With three more books in the series, including The Girl with the Whispering Shadow, there’s plenty more magic to explore.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Crowns of Croswald to anyone who loves immersive fantasy, vibrant characters, and stories that spark the imagination. It’s a book that reminds us to embrace our own magic and step boldly into the unknown. Pick up a copy, and let Ivy Lovely guide you into a world you won’t want to leave.
You can buy The Crowns of Croswald by D.E. Night with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3RE9vFn
A Captivating Premise and Relatable Heroine
From the opening pages, The Crowns of Croswald hooks readers with its intriguing premise. Ivy Lovely, our protagonist, has spent her life in the mundane confines of Castle Plum, tending to scaldrons—adorable, fire-breathing dragons that serve as kitchen ovens. Unaware of her own magical potential, Ivy’s world is one of drudgery and isolation, surrounded by slurry trees that suppress magic. When an unexpected incident forces her to flee beyond the castle’s enchanted boundary, Ivy’s latent powers awaken, and she is swept away to the Halls of Ivy, a prestigious magical school where students hone their abilities as scrivenists or royals. This classic “hidden hero” trope is executed with freshness and charm, making Ivy’s journey of self-discovery both relatable and inspiring.
Ivy is a standout protagonist—curious, brave, and endearingly imperfect. At sixteen, she’s older than the typical middle-grade hero, which allows Night to explore more mature themes like identity, belonging, and destiny without losing the lighthearted tone that appeals to younger readers. Ivy’s mix of shyness and determination makes her easy to root for, whether she’s navigating the challenges of magical school or unraveling the mysteries of her past. Her growth from a timid maid to a confident young scrivenist is heartwarming, and her humorous missteps—like accidentally causing magical mishaps—add a layer of authenticity that keeps her grounded.
A Rich and Imaginative World
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its vivid world-building. The kingdom of Croswald is a feast for the imagination, filled with quirky creatures, magical artifacts, and enchanting locations. From hairies—glowing, furry fairies that light the lamps of Croswald—to porcupines that provide quills for scrivenists, Night’s creativity knows no bounds. The magical school, the Halls of Ivy, is a character in its own right, with ghostly cooks, a jester-run lunchroom, and a room where forgotten things are erased from memory. These whimsical details evoke the charm of Hogwarts while feeling distinctly original.
The magic system is particularly noteworthy. Unlike traditional wands, Croswald’s magic revolves around mystical gems and quills. Royals draw power from the stones in their crowns, while scrivenists channel their magic through their blood and sketching skills, creating spells with artistic flair. This emphasis on creativity and writing is a refreshing twist, celebrating the power of imagination and storytelling. Night’s descriptions of magical teas, potions, and mythical creatures like cabby beasts (giant creatures with their own weather systems) add depth and texture to the world, making it a place readers will long to revisit.
Engaging Plot and Themes
The plot of The Crowns of Croswald is a rollicking adventure that balances action, mystery, and character development. As Ivy learns to control her magic, she uncovers secrets about her past and the enigmatic Derwin Edgar Night, a scrivenist who haunts her dreams and holds the key to her destiny. The looming threat of the Dark Queen and her Cloaked Brood adds a layer of suspense, keeping readers on edge as Ivy and her friends navigate danger and intrigue. While some have noted that the pacing can be uneven, with slower moments giving way to rapid-fire action, this only enhances the novel’s addictive quality, as each twist and turn leaves you eager for more.
The story explores timeless themes that resonate with readers of all ages. Ivy’s journey of self-discovery is at the heart of the narrative, as she grapples with questions of identity and belonging. The novel also touches on friendship, courage, and the battle between good and evil, all woven into the story with a light touch that never feels heavy-handed. For younger readers, these themes are accessible and empowering, while older readers will appreciate the deeper layers, such as the subtle nods to grief and abandonment.
Charming Characters and Nostalgic Vibes
The supporting cast is a highlight, bringing warmth and humor to the story. Ivy’s friends, including the loyal Rebecca and the charming Fyn, add depth to her journey, their friendships blossoming through shared adventures. Humboldt, the tiny scaldron who accompanies Ivy, is an absolute delight, stealing scenes with his quirky personality and unwavering loyalty. The nod to Harry Potter is undeniable—a magical school, a chosen-one narrative, and an evil force lurking in the shadows—but Night pays homage without imitation, infusing Croswald with its own magic. Fans of Harry Potter will feel a nostalgic thrill, but the story stands on its own as a unique and captivating tale.
A Few Minor Flaws, But a Joyful Read
While The Crowns of Croswald is a triumph, it’s not without minor imperfections. Some readers have pointed out that the world-building, while rich, could delve deeper into the kingdom’s history or the intricacies of the magic system. The plot’s predictability in places might not surprise seasoned fantasy readers, but these moments are overshadowed by the story’s charm and creativity. For its target audience—tweens and teens aged 9-13—these issues are unlikely to detract from the overall enjoyment.
Why You Should Read It
The Crowns of Croswald is a magical, heartwarming adventure that captures the wonder of discovering one’s own potential. D.E. Night has crafted a world that feels both familiar and fresh, with a heroine who inspires and a story that enchants. Whether you’re a young reader diving into fantasy for the first time or an adult seeking a nostalgic escape, this book delivers. Its blend of whimsy, mystery, and magic makes it an ideal read-aloud for families or a cozy solo read. With three more books in the series, including The Girl with the Whispering Shadow, there’s plenty more magic to explore.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Crowns of Croswald to anyone who loves immersive fantasy, vibrant characters, and stories that spark the imagination. It’s a book that reminds us to embrace our own magic and step boldly into the unknown. Pick up a copy, and let Ivy Lovely guide you into a world you won’t want to leave.
You can buy The Crowns of Croswald by D.E. Night with my Amazon Affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3RE9vFn
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