The Last Ember is a fast-paced, imaginative middle grade fantasy full of magical creatures, secret societies, unlikely friendships, and one extremely slow (and extremely lovable) getaway pony named Gourd.

As someone who loved The Mysterious Benedict Society as a kid, I really enjoyed this one and definitely saw the similarities—clever kids, high-stakes secret organizations, and a world that feels just a little off-kilter in the best way.

I ended up blowing through this in one sitting. The pacing is brisk without being overwhelming, and the story just kept pulling me along. Twelve-year-old Eva accidentally ends up with what might be the last aerimander egg, and things spiral quickly from there. When the wrong people start taking an interest in her and the egg, Eva finds herself swept up in a fast-moving series of events involving secret organizations, hidden agendas, and one very unexpected ally. What follows is a cross-kingdom adventure full of danger, close calls, and a surprising amount of heart.

Eva and Dusty are both strong, well-drawn characters, and their dynamic is full of tension, humor, and heart. I also loved the clever worldbuilding (especially the Thieves’ Union) and the fun little details that brought the setting to life.

One of my favorite structural choices was the use of interludes between chapters. Early on, they directly address the reader with a witty, self-aware tone that adds a sense of playfulness and perspective. As the story progresses, they shift toward brief glimpses into the lives of side characters, expanding the world and deepening the stakes without slowing the pace. It’s a clever way to build out the larger story and keep the reader grounded in the world beyond Eva and Dusty.

The prose is clear, funny, and just elevated enough to make it feel special. A few moments felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked a bit more space between big plot beats, but overall it was a strong and engaging read.

The book ends on a satisfying cliffhanger that raises the stakes and sets up the second installment perfectly—I’ll definitely be picking up book two.