Review: The Houdini Inheritance by Emma Carroll

*Written by Emma Carroll*
*Cover Illustration by Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini*
*Published by Faber & Faber*

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.

Blog Tour: Delta and the Lost City

*Written by Anna Fargher*
*Illustrated by David Dean*
*Published by Macmillan Children’s Books*

Delta and the Lost City is an absolutely gripping historical adventure that took me on an unforgettable journey to AD79 where both humans and nature threaten the survival of a young wolfdog determined to protect her family from harm … poignant, heart-warming and hopeful … an epic adventure of courage, survival, hope and family.

Young wolfdog Delta enjoys her life inside the walls and grounds of her master, former army general Lucius’, luxurious countryside villa southeast of the coastal cities of Herculaneum and Pompeii. She spends her time play-fighting with her mother, Luna, her friend Bellona, the golden eagle, and her favourite slave, Gaia and her son, Neo … but she misses her mistress, Herminia.

Herminia, Lucius’ beloved daughter, no longer lives in the villa as she has married and moved to Rome with her cruel and controlling husband, Marcus. When they return for a night, before moving to Pompeii for the summer, Delta witnesses a terrible crime that culminates in the death of her master, providing a catalyst that changes her life …

Delta is accused of the death of her master and soon finds herself running for her life accompanied by her friend, Bellona, but she remains fiercely loyal to, and protective of, the family she loves and will never desert them. Delta is determined to stop Marcus’ tyranny and save her family from his cruelty. And, when further danger comes from the threat of Mount Vesuvius erupting, she finds herself in a race to locate and protect those she loves before it is too late. Can she save her family from both human cruelty and nature’s unstoppable might?

And so begins an absolutely riveting, action-packed adventure as Delta faces danger, threat and a quaking earth as she fights to reach her family who have been separated from each other by the machinations of a merciless, manipulative master. The tension, danger and sense of urgency are palpable not only as Mount Vesuvius moves inexorably towards eruption, but as Marcus rips apart all Delta loves and holds dear. This is an epic adventure overflowing with heart-pounding, explosive action and with both heartbreaking and hopeful moments.

This is a story that reveals so much about the structure of Ancient Roman society which was patriarchal and hierarchical with a reliance on slaves. But it also reveals a lot about human nature, juxtaposing a master who shows kindness and respect towards those in his household, and one who is self-interested and cruel.

Delta is the most incredible young wolfdog – she has definitely found her way into my heart. She is fiercely loyal and protective of her family and is determined to save them, taking great risks and placing herself in terrifying danger to do so. She is attuned to the natural environment around her and shows empathy towards others which brings its own rewards. She has a courageous heart beating with hope and love for her family. I adored her friendship with Bellona, the golden eagle.

David Dean’s detailed black-and-white illustrations are absolutely stunning, and complement the storytelling perfectly as they really capture both the heart and action of this amazing adventure.

A truly epic, unforgettable historical adventure with an incredible young hero in wolfdog, Delta, who embodies courage, strength and love for family. A perfect adventure for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Books for inviting me to take part in the Blog Tour, and for providing me with a copy of Delta and the Lost City in exchange for my honest opinion.

Do check out the other stops on the Blog Tour:

Review: The Secret Society of Very Important Post

*Written by Alexandra Page*
*Illustrated by Penny Neville-Lee*
*Published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books*

I absolutely adored WishYouWas: The Tiny Guardian of Lost Letters (you can read my review here) so I was very excited to learn that there was another WishYouWas Mystery: The Secret Society of Very Important Post.

Penny Black and her mum are moving away from London to live in Scotland so that they can spend more time together. This should make Penny happy, but she is feeling sad about leaving her best friend, Wishyouwas – and she doesn’t know how to break the news that she is leaving to him.

Just as she is about to leave her flat, Wishyouwas plops into her fireplace with the news that he’s been summoned to a meeting with the Royal Postmistress, none other than Queen Elizabeth herself. And he wants Penny to attend with him.

When they arrive at the Palace, they are taken to meet the Queen’s Royal Secretary who reveals that the King’s letter to the new Queen – the Monarch’s Seal – has been stolen. Without this, the coronation, which is due to take part the following day, is in danger of not taking place. The Sorters are given the task of finding the stolen letter and delivering it to its rightful recipient, the Queen, before her coronation. But can they solve the mystery of the missing letter, and deliver it to its rightful recipient before time runs out?

And so begins a wonderfully action-packed adventure, brimming with excitement, risk and peril, as Wishyouwas and Penny work together, alongside both old and new Sorter friends, following a series of clues to unravel the mystery, and discover the whereabouts of the missing letter. Their investigations lead them to suspect that there is a villainous traitor in their midst who will stop at nothing to ensure the Sorters cannot complete their mission. I loved the unexpected twists and turns, the unveiling of clever clues leading to historical sites around London and the never-being-quite-sure where the letter was which kept me completely captivated and eagerly turning pages. I also loved that mystery was set in 1953 and gives an insight into the Queen’s Coronation which I think is something young readers will really engage with.

Penny and Wishyouwas have the most gorgeous, warm-hearted, trusting friendship. I can totally understand how hard it must have been for Penny to tell him that she was leaving. They are daring, courageous and determined, and are not afraid to take risks and break rules, all of which make them a perfect sleuthing team.

The full-and-partial page illustrations are absolutely stunning and really capture both the heart-warming bond between Penny and the adorable WishyouWas and the sense of mystery and peril.

This is a spellbinding, heart-warming mystery with a timeless quality that will make it a story which young children of 8+ will return to again and again.

Thank you to Bloomsbury Children’s Books for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Blog Tour: The Narzat written by Luke Marchant and illustrated by Rory Walker

*Written by Luke Marchant*
*Illustrated by Rory Walker*
*Published by Everything with Words*

The Narzat is a fantastically funny, fast-paced adventure fizzing with warmth and friendship – and a huge explosion of wickedness!

If you ever make the loooooooong trek to the Jumble Jungle Wood, you will find a feast of imaginative delights with a myriad of astounding animals and plants – mostly harmless, but some absolutely lethal! I’d make the journey for the choco-oaks alone!

This magical place is home to The Narzat who doesn’t know how he arrived in the Jumble Jungle Wood, but he does know that the sparkling silver, inscripted locket (his ‘shiny’) he wears is his most precious possession. In fact, wishing on it has brought him his two best friends: The Looky Lizard and the Chatty Chirper. They become inseparable after thwarting the persistent attempts of the always-hungry Ravenoserous to make them a tasty meal. Luckily, if you stay away from the Deep Dark Depths, you are unlikely to meet his insatiable hunger – and his jagged teeth!

One day, whilst playing a game of Snakes and Ladders (with a python who likes back massages), the friends are interrupted by a loud bang. It is not until later that they discover who was responsible when they meet Lord and Lady Snide who have arrived in search of shiny treasure, and eager to kill these wondrous creatures for their furs.

Can the Narzat and his friends defeat these cruel interlopers before they destroy the harmony of the Jumble Jungle Wood? Will the Narzat finally discover where he has come from?

Oh my gigglesome goodness, this is an absolute riot of humour and heart. I adored the playfulness of the language, the wackiness of the jungle creatures (I want a hug-a-slug) and the terrific twists. This story has one of my favourite paragraphs ever, and it refers to teenage trees (utterly genius!).

There is so much to laugh-out-loud at in this story (and I did!) but there is also danger and dastardly deeds courtesy of truly dreadful villains – and Lord and Lady Snide are truly some of the most horrid baddies I have encountered! I was desperate for them to get their comeuppance!

I absolutely adored the Narzat and his two best friends. The constant bickering between the Looky Lizard (who uses sign language and miming to communicate) and the Chatty Chirper (who is not so good at what most birds can do – flying) brought lots of giggles. These three have such a strong bond of friendship that was such a joy to witness as they endeavour to outwit Lord and Lady Snide. The Narzat is absolutely adorable: kind-hearted, courageous and protective of his friends, even when this puts him at risk.

The illustrations are absolutely wonderful – so full of energy and expression – complementing the story perfectly.

Take a visit to the magical Jumble Jungle Wood for a wickedly fun and heart-warming adventure guaranteed to bring giggles galore and gasps of wonder.

Thank you so much to Mikka at Everything with Words for inviting me to be part of the Blog Tour and for sending me a copy of The Narzat in exchange for my honest opinion.

Do check out the other stops on the Blog Tour:

Review: Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm by Ash Bond

Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm is an exhilarating, mesmerising fantasy adventure that completely captivated me as it took me on an unforgettable quest with the most brilliant cast of characters.

Everyone knows that libraries are magical places where adventures unfold, so don’t be surprised when you arrive at the Bodleian Library, Oxford to find its dryad librarian asleep, having eaten too many jellybeans, unaware that a break-in is taking place.

Don’t be alarmed when you discover that the perpetrators are a twelve-year-old Terran girl, Peregrine Quinn, and her godfather, an immortal, Daedalus Bloom.

BUT be very alarmed when, 23 minutes later, portal librarian, Rowan Strong wakes up to discover that all the portals between the Terran Realm and the Cosmic Realm have shut down. And the only person who can fix the portals is the architect who designed them who just so happens to be … Daedalus Bloom. As the only librarian who has not been trapped with their Cosport, Rowan is tasked with finding Daedalus …. shouldn’t be a problem for a highly-skilled portal librarian … except that Rowan is a trainee librarian, and this is her first day on the job …

Rowan is not the only one searching for Daedalus so when she arrives at his plant clinic, danger arrives with her. By the time Peregrine gets home, it is to witness her godfather disappearing before her eyes, and a laser pointing at her. Racing through the streets of Oxford, Peregrine and Rowan are pursued by men in suits with dark glasses who are not at all what they seem …

And so begins the most incredible, action-packed, heart-pounding adventure as Peregrine and Rowan find themselves in a race against time to rescue Daedalus before an ancient power returns, a power intent on causing destruction in both Realms. They are relentlessly chased by a pair of dangerous enemies and face great peril as they travel through water, land and underground on the quest they have found themselves undertaking. Be prepared for unexpected revelations, dastardly deeds, treachery and oodles of danger in this edge-of-your-seat adventure. Oh – and laughs – definitely be prepared for plenty of laughs as the humour throughout is brilliantly scintillating.

I really enjoyed the world-building which took me between our world (Terran Realm) and Mount Olympus (Cosmic Realm). I loved the blend of mythology with modern and futuristic technology, the ancient immortals and their minions kitted out with their own tech which gave this a sci-fi feel. I also really liked the importance of nature within the story – Bernadette, a sentient plant who travels with Peregrine, is just gorgeous as are the Cosbugs given to Peregrine and Rowan by the wonderful, wise Nim, the Q of the immortals. Using ancient libraries as gateways between realms with librarians as guardians of the portals is genius. And then there’s the Under Under Ground …

There are so many wonderful characters in this adventure and it was fantastic to get an insight into them through the use of multiple viewpoints. Rowan is someone who has been brought up to follow rules and is not interested in becoming a hero and going on a quest … but sometimes it is necessary to break rules and become a hero, especially if a friend’s life is in danger. Peregrine is curious, feisty and impetuous and can jump into situations without thinking. I loved that these two develop such a wonderfully loyal and supportive bond of friendship and learn from each other.

A spectacular fantasy adventure, fizzing with humour and fast-paced action, guaranteed to sweep readers into an enchantment of reading delight.

Thank you to Amber Ivatt and Piccadilly Press for sending me an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Bringing Back Kay-Kay by Dev Kothari

*Written by Dev Kothari*
*Cover Illustration by Tara Anand*
*Published by Walker Books*

Set in contemporary India, Bringing Back Kay-Kay is both a superbly gripping mystery and a deeply moving and hopeful testament to the strength of sibling bonds in the most desperate of times. Heart-warming, heart-breaking and utterly brilliant from start to finish.

Lena has been enjoying some welcome attention from her parents whilst her much-favoured older brother, Kay-Kay, has been away at summer camp in Goa; she even wishes that he would stay away for longer. But when her parents arrive back from the train station with the news that her beloved brother is missing, she is devastated. The local police think he’s just another runaway, but Lena is convinced that they are wrong. Unable to bear her parents’ pain and the idea of living without Kay-Kay, Lena sets out to investigate her brother’s disappearance … and to bring him home.

So begins a dual journey of discovery as Lena painstakingly and determinedly pieces together clues leading up to Kay-Kay’s disappearance, as she retraces his steps across India, and as she gains insight from speaking to those who know him. But this is also a journey which reveals a side to her brother which he has kept hidden from his family: secret hopes and dreams and a fear of not living up to the weight of expectations. Can Lena discover the truth behind her brother’s disappearance? Will she be able to bring Kay-Kay back, or will she too late to save the brother she needs?

Without you, Kay-Kay, there’s no sun, no warmth, no light. I will find you – my brother, my friend. I will find you and bring you back.

This story is written from Lena’s viewpoint, with direct address to her brother, which I found incredibly emotive as it gives such a painfully beautiful insight into their relationship, especially as she faces her own truths and discovers her brother’s secrets. The deep, unbreakable bond between the siblings sings from the pages of this story, and makes Lena’s journey to find Kay-Kay absolutely gripping and, at times, almost unbearably tense. Lena’s pain at the loss of her brother is palpable, but she shows such incredible strength in finding the courage to keep going and never give up hope even when those around her do.

I absolutely loved the poetry that is included within the story which I must admit brought tears – so incredibly powerful and heartfelt. I also really liked the setting in contemporary India and enjoyed learning more about this vibrant country from the train journeys to the culture and food and drink.

An evocative, emotional and exhilarating mystery with family and sibling bonds firmly at its heart.

Thank you to Lorraine Keating and Walker Books for providing me with an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion.