Book #7: Emma and the Silk Thieves by Matthew S. Cox

Once again safe at home, Emma clings to the comfort of family and tries to put the fright of the Banderwigh behind her—but deeds, even good ones, often have consequences.

With a new reality of spirits and magic open to her, Emma feels a strong connection to Widowswood. She means to make good on her promise to the Spider Queen, bringing a monthly supply of silk in trade so humans cease their trespass upon the forest.

A guild of thieves infiltrates the quiet town, lured by the incredible value of spidersilk flowing so freely from the forest. At first, they don’t believe the source is a ten-year-old girl, but once they learn, they’ll do anything to control her.

Stuck between protecting her family or protecting her forest, Emma draws courage from her grandmother’s stories and makes a choice—that could cost her life.

I received this book from the author for an honest review. There was no compensation for this review. What follows is my opinion and mine alone.

It is so great to be back in Widowswood. I fell in love with the small town in Cox’s first book, Emma and the Banderwigh. In that book, we meet ten year old Emma and the magical world of Widowswood. This book is set a month after the events of the first book.

I found the first book pulled me in faster than this one. It was dark and gave me a view of a world that I instantly wanted more of. This book, Emma and the Silk Thieves, did just that. Cox expanded the world, gave us tidbits on Nan’s past, and showed us an ever growing little girl. It wasn’t as speedy as the first one, but it was a nice change of pace next to the first.

I still want more of Emma and I’m even more excited to see what other stories Nan has in store for the audience that hints about her own history. Nan is like this epic old woman and I need more about her.

I read a bit to Bug and he loved it. He was as engrossed with this book as Emma, Tam, and Kimber were to Nan’s stories. That’s a huge feat because that kid is on the go all the time. Needless to say, I definitely recommend this book for younger readers and adults.

Emma is a great role model for all children. She is smart, passionate, respectful, and responsible. All of these are qualities a person should have (I emphasize respectful and responsible to Bug).

I rated this a 4/5 stars.