Review: The Houdini Inheritance by Emma Carroll

The Houdini Inheritance is a spectacular showstopper from the Queen of Historical Fiction:  a gripping historical mystery where a transatlantic voyage takes two young friends to Coney Island’s amusement parks to protect the secrets of the world’s greatest escapologist … and discover some of their own.

It’s summer 1926 and 12-year-old Glory and her best friend, Dennis are watching a master of escapology, none other than the great Harry Houdini, as he performs a death-defying stunt.  As he jumps off Sidford-by-the-Sea’s pier locked in chains, he holds the crowd entranced …

When Glory and Dennis learn that Houdini is putting on an extra show at their local theatre, they are determined to see him perform again.  After returning a missing dog to its grateful owner, they are made special guests at the show.  As soon as an opportunity arises during the performance, Glory offers Houdini her Grandfather’s Boer War handcuffs to escape from:  a decision that is the catalyst for an incredible adventure as Houdini entrusts her with his priceless trunk containing all his secrets.

And so begins the most wonderfully thrilling, action-packed mystery as Glory and her older sister Effie, with Dennis and his Granny Vic, find themselves on a transatlantic journey to Coney Island, New York to return the trunk to its rightful owner.  Can they keep the trunk safe, or will its secrets fall into the hands of a merciless adversary who will stop at nothing to take what is kept within?

This is a real rollercoaster of intrigue with suspects to be investigated, suspicions to be confirmed, secrets to be unravelled not to mention threats, danger and death-defying acts.  Absolutely superb and utterly unputdownable!

I loved the 1920s setting, in both England and America, which are richly described and really immersed me in the adventure.  This is a story that juxtaposes the excitement of theatrical shows and stunts and the glamour of transatlantic crossings with the prejudice shown towards others, with bitter rivalry, and with the hurt and emptiness felt by loss.

Glory and Dennis are wonderfully likeable protagonists who have a strong and loyal bond of friendship; they work brilliantly as a team who trust and support each other.  Glory is a curious, impetuous and fearless young girl who wants nothing more than a dog in her life.  Dennis is more gregarious and is drawn to anything theatrical, whether that be magical shows or attending a séance.  Both children show determination and courage when faced with difficult decisions and dangerous situations.   I really liked that Glory and Dennis also had support from their family and thought that both Effie and Granny Vic were brilliant – and such strong characters.

As I read, I really appreciated the title of this book as the theme of ‘inheritance’ is threaded throughout.  I enjoyed seeing how it related to each family and how it affected and shaped them, but also how it leads to a realisation of the importance of living your own life, of having your own dreams.  The ending was incredibly heart-warming – and just perfect!

Escape into an exhilarating rollercoaster of an adventure, guaranteed to get your heart pounding and your mind racing as you discover the secrets hidden in this mesmerising mystery.  Perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Bethany Carter and Faber Children’s Books for providing me with a proof copy in exchange for my honest opinion.