Christian McKay Heidicker’s Thieves of Weirdwood is a darkly whimsical and richly imagined tale that combines elements of fantasy, mystery, and horror in ways that feel fresh and unpredictable. The story opens in 1909 Kingsport, a city still reeling from the devastating Pox, where the streets are dangerous and survival is a constant challenge. The world Heidicker builds is gritty and atmospheric, with smoky pubs, twisting alleyways, and a pervasive sense of danger that perfectly frames the extraordinary events to come. The protagonists, Arthur Benton and Wally Cooper, are both twelve years old, but they feel older than their years due to the harsh circumstances of their lives. Arthur is impulsive, witty, and often gets himself into trouble, whereas Wally is cautious, logical, and skilled at picking locks, a talent that proves essential to their survival. Their friendship is central to the story, offering warmth amidst the bleak setting, though I sometimes wished for a deeper emotional exploration of their inner lives. Moments of genuine vulnerability do exist, especially when Wally grapples with his brother’s confinement in Greyridge Mental Hospital, but these emotional beats could have been even more impactful if given more space to breathe. The story truly shines when the boys venture into Hazelrigg House, also known as Weirdwood Manor. The mansion is a masterpiece of strange and shifting architecture, full of magical rooms that defy the laws of reality. Heidicker excels at creating tension here, every corner could hide danger, and every corridor could twist unexpectedly, trapping the boys or leading them into peril. The stakes are real: they are not just facing supernatural threats but also the looming consequences of debt, survival, and moral compromise. The concept of a Mirror World, where nightmares manifest into reality, adds a layer of psychological intrigue that is uncommon in middle-grade novels. It raises the tension considerably and keeps the reader constantly guessing. The antagonists are equally memorable. Lady Weirdwood, enigmatic and unpredictable, embodies both menace and mystery, while the Order of Eldar represents a larger, almost mythic threat to Kingsport. Heidicker’s villains are multifaceted rather than one-dimensional, which adds depth to the conflict and makes the story more engaging. The interactions between Arthur and Wally and these characters highlight their resourcefulness and growing courage, and the book emphasizes that heroism is often messy, uncertain, and morally complicated, a refreshing take for young readers. One of the novel’s standout qualities is how it treats consequences. Actions, both small and large, carry weight. Mistakes are not easily undone, and the world reacts realistically to choices the characters make. This approach makes the story feel grounded, despite its magical and supernatural elements. It also encourages young readers to think critically about responsibility, ethics, and problem-solving. Heidicker’s writing style is another highlight. He blends humor, suspense, and a touch of wisdom seamlessly, creating a voice that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Lines like Arthur’s musings on staying calm in tense situations provide levity and insight, showing that the author respects his young audience’s intelligence without talking down to them. That said, Thieves of Weirdwood is not without flaws. The pacing can be uneven, with some chapters feeling unnecessarily long or meandering. Certain backstory elements, such as family histories and minor magical mechanics, could have been integrated more smoothly to maintain momentum. Additionally, minor inconsistencies in map spellings and geography occasionally distracted from the otherwise immersive world-building. Finally, while Arthur and Wally are compelling, deeper exploration of their emotions and motivations, particularly Wally’s feelings about his brother, would have strengthened the story’s emotional resonance. Despite these issues, the novel succeeds in being highly engaging and imaginative. It sets the stage effectively for a trilogy, introducing readers to a unique magical system, high-stakes adventure, and a cast of characters they’ll want to follow in subsequent books. The ending leaves plenty of room for the story to expand, promising even more surprises, challenges, and emotional growth for both Arthur and Wally in the sequels.