When Maven and Reeve, two servant children, meet for the first time, they barely have time to start to dislike each other before the Fire Star – a precious gem – is stolen. The two then have only a few days to find the gem before they lose their last remaining shreds of freedom entirely.

On its surface, The Fire Star is a fairly traditional story about knights, lords and ladies. But you’d be foolish to think that’s all there is to it. There is also a secret society called Beech Circle, which is made up of self-educated women who are bound to help all girls and women, always. Meanwhile, Reeve goes from thinking all women who can read are witches to being an enthusiastic ally to Beech Circle, willing to keep their secrets and help their cause. Beech Circle and Reeve’s character growth add depth to an already exciting story. Great for kids aged 9+.

Dani Solomon is the assistant manager at Readings Kids.