Review: Clem Fatale Has Been Upstaged

Clem Fatale Has Been Upstaged is the second sleuthing mystery in this series set in 1950s London – brimming with excitement, thrills and twists, it held me enthralled from start to finish.

Twelve-year-old Clem, the youngest gangster in London, is on her way to her dad’s with best friend, Gilbert, when they are seemingly kidnapped and taken to the London Palladium. When they arrive, they discover that one half of their favourite musical duo, the Wade Sisters, has disappeared alongside some jewellery. Betty’s brother, and manager, Eddy, wants them to find his missing sister before the upcoming Palladium performance. With a crime to solve and a show to save, Clem and Gilbert are eager to begin their investigations … but will they be able to find Betty, and discover the culprit behind her disappearance, before time runs out?

I absolutely loved being back with Clem and Gilbert as they follow a twisty trail of clues, and discover suspects, which takes them to some wonderfully atmospheric criminal hangouts, linked to the world of entertainment, which gives this mystery a deliciously darker edge – but diffused with sharp humour. I loved visiting hangouts such as The Corney Brothers’ Picture House, Mercutio’s Pickle Cafe and the Chicken Leg Jazz Club (what wonderful names!) where Clem and Gilbert unearth clues and discover new leads in their intriguing investigations.

This is a brilliantly action-packed, fast-paced adventure, with plenty of twists and turns, red herrings and danger which kept me eagerly turning pages. I also loved the sharp wit and humour, the quick interactions and the camaraderie between familiar characters. I have no doubt that this is a story that will hugely appeal to, and engage, young fans of whodunnit mysteries.

Clem’s determination, courage and feistiness, coupled with Gilbert’s enthusiasm, politeness and quick-thinking, make for a brilliant sleuthing team. They have a wonderfully warm and witty friendship, but will their friendship become threatened by Gilbert’s commitment to his new school and Clem’s worry that she will lose her sleuthing partner and best friend?

The full-page illustrations are absolutely stunning capturing the glamour, dark undertones and action-packed excitement of the 1950s theatre and gangster world. And I loved the newspaper at the end – I wonder if there’s a clue hidden in there for a next book – I hope so!

A thrilling, twisty mystery – perfect entertainment for young readers of 9+.

Thank you to Little Tiger for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.