Review: Quill and the Last Generation

*Written by C.M. Lewis*
Cover illustration by Khadijah Khatib
Interior Illustrations by Marina Vidal
*Published by MacMillan Children’s Books*

Quill and the Last Generation is the first book in a stunning, epic fantasy adventure series inspired by Welsh mythology: an adventure that swept me into an unforgettable world of mythical creatures, danger and discoveries that kept me completely spellbound throughout.

Twelve-year-old Quill and his best friend, Jona, are helping to keep the bonfire alight on Beltaine night in the hope that it will bring back warmth to their world, a world that has been in a perpetual winter for the last twelve years. During these twelve years, no child has been born, making Quill part of the last generation.

The following morning, Quill is disturbed by the sound of a raven outside his window who transforms into a girl – Deryn – who tells him that he must return to the underworld with her in order to save both worlds …

And so begins the most incredible, breath-taking adventure as Quill travels in his father’s boat to the underworld, Annwfn, guided by his new friend, a world which is now ruled over solely by the King of Darkness after he killed King Hafgan, destroying the balance between light and darkness.

After a terrifying encounter with a hound in the city, Quill and Deryn escape to the protection of a castle, where Quill discovers that Deryn is not the only shapeshifter. Can Quill find the Light of the World before it is extinguished and all hope disappears with it? Can a quiet, kind-hearted boy defeat the King of Darkness and bring light and balance back to both worlds?

I was held absolutely spellbound by Quill’s journey into the underworld and was gripped by the astonishing revelations, the dangerous encounters, the poignant, tender moments, and the uncertainty of who could be trusted in this world where an arrogant, cruel ruler is determined to maintain his rule – and destroy hope.

I adore stories inspired by mythology, especially those that bring two worlds together as this one does so brilliantly. I was absolutely in awe of and, sometimes frightened by, the mythological creatures Quill meets from the shapeshifters to the dragons, hounds and water horse and really enjoyed Quill’s ability to connect with many of them – one bond in particular being incredibly heart-warming. I also loved the spirituality and appreciation of nature within the adventure: I found one aspect of this both heart-breaking and beautiful.

Quill is the most incredible young boy who finds himself at the heart of a battle to bring light and hope back to two worlds. He is raised by adoptive parents who are loving, kind and protective, attributes that they have instilled in their son, and which help him find inner strength and hope as he faces fears and challenges in a new world with courage, kindness and resilience. Will this quiet, kind-hearted boy grow into the hero that is needed?

I must admit that I love poring over a map when reading fantasy adventures and the map of Annwfn is stunning, showing the places Quill travels to, but also some places not mentioned in this story which I am very much looking forward to visiting in the next adventure, Castle of Mirrors.

The full-and-partial page illustrations throughout are absolutely gorgeous and perfectly complement the magic and danger, the bonds of friendship and the hope in the story. And, I must admit, I really want to visit the turret where stories fly!

A spellbinding fantasy adventure where danger and darkness battle light and hope, where bonds of friendship grow, and where a new hero emerges … perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to MacMillan Children’s Books for sending me a copy . It was my decision to read and review this book, and my review is my honest opinion of the book.

Review: The Moonhaven Chronicles: The Last Wolf written and illustrated by Rob Biddulph

*Published by MacMillan Children’s Books on 5th February*

The Moonhaven Chronicles: The Last Wolf is the first in what promises to be an absolutely gripping fantasy duology, shining a light on the legend of the werewolf in the most mesmerising, action-packed adventure that held me enthralled throughout.

In Moonhaven, Jax, his twin sister Jovi, and their best friends Esau and Fourth enjoy the sense of excitement and freedom they get from breaking curfew during the full moon to enjoy their own adventures with no one else around. After all, there have been no werewolf attacks for over 40 years, so the terrifying howl they have heard, which is giving Jax nightmares, couldn’t possibly have been a werewolf, could it? And, it absolutely will not stop them planning another Moonlighters adventure during the next curfew.

But when the seemingly impossible happens, and a werewolf attack occurs, the friends go on the run, fearing that they will be captured by the Nighthawks, who are responsible for enforcing the curfew, a curfew that they have broken. But, as they search for the truth behind the attack, will what they discover put the whole world in danger?

I absolutely loved following these four friends on their mission to discover what lies behind the werewolf attack and found myself gasping out loud at what they track down. Be prepared for plenty of dangerous situations, breathtaking revelations and edge-of-your-seat shocks. I really enjoyed the short chapters which made this a real-page turner and a one-sitting read as I just had to find out what happened next and, after that ending, I can’t wait to find out what happens next.

The short, action-packed chapters, coupled with the many stunning full page and partial-page illustrations, makes this an incredibly appealing read for children who I have no doubt will devour this story – and be eager for more.

The Moonlighters are a wonderful group of friends who I found incredibly likeable. Despite some friction and uncertainty between them (which made them feel like genuine friends),they use their different strengths, from tech genius to empathetic interactions, to work together and prove supportive and caring friends. They face their fears and show real courage and determination when seeking the truth and standing up for themselves and others.

One of the things I really like about reading fantasy adventures is their ability to reflect reality and this one does so brilliantly, opening up opportunities for some deep discussions with readers. This pertinent story includes themes such as abuse of power, the ethics of genetic engineering and the treatment of those who are perceived as ‘different’.

A howlingly gripping adventure, with family and friendship at its heart, perfect for adventure-seekers of 9+.

Thank you to MacMillan Children’s Books for sending me an early copy. My review is my honest opinion of the book.

Review: The Experiment by Rebecca Stead

*Written by Rebecca Stead*
Cover art by Devin Ellie Kurtz
*Published by Anderson Press on 1st January 2026*

The Experiment is an absolutely gripping, thought-provoking science-fiction adventure that took me on a heart-racing journey of discovery that kept me utterly enthralled.

Eleven-year-old Nathan has been keeping a secret his whole life, an incredible secret that is in danger of being exposed following something that happens to him on his family’s vacation in Florida. In order to stop his secret being revealed, Nathan must return to the Wagon, a spaceship from the planet Kast, his home world. Nathan has grown up believing that he is part of an experiment to ascertain whether the Kast can permanently maintain human form on Earth but what has happened in Florida has thrown doubt on its success …

When Nathan is recalled to the Wagon, it is with the knowledge that other members of his group, who he has spoken to virtually each year, have begun to disappear, including close friend Izzy with whom he has been communicating without his parents’ knowledge. Could the experiment have failed and will be have to leave Earth?

And so begins an absolutely riveting, action-packed adventure as Nathan and his parents are brought to the Wagon. When he meets some old friends onboard the mothership, it is not long before Nathan begins to question the nature of the experiment which has been such a part of his identity. Could Hester, who controls the ship, have been keeping the truth about the true purpose of the experiment from its participants? Can he protect those he loves from the egocentricity of someone intent on the success of the experiment, no matter the consequences? And, what will he learn about himself and what he has been taught to believe about why he is on Earth?

This really is the most compelling, thought-provoking read which I absolutely could not put down and read in a single sitting, helped by the short chapters which kept me eagerly turning pages. I really liked that the story is structured into six parts which gives the reader both an insight into the ship’s journey towards take-off, giving a sense of urgency and expectation, and a focus for what the characters will experience.

I don’t want to say too much for fear of spoilers but I found this an incredibly thought-provoking read as it delves into the human experience, interactions and relationships, self-identity and how self-concept can be affected both positively and negatively by others.

I absolutely adored the strong friendship between Nathan and his best friend, Victor with each wanting to support and protect the other, showing real courage in doing so. I loved how accepting Victor is when Nathan reveals the truth about himself, and loved that he finds joy in the ordinariness and comfort of Victor and his family. Whilst Nathan clearly adores his mum and dad, he is aware that his is not a ‘normal’ family life with his life being monitored and recorded by his mum so he enjoys the normalcy he feels through his friendships and school life. There is someone else who shows Nathan incredible kindness, friendship and understanding – but I will let the reader discover that wonderful someone for themselves!

A thought-provoking, fast-paced, page-turner, full of twists and turns, perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Jade at Anderson Press for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Murder at the Ivy Hotel

Written by Emily Hourican
Illustrated by Paola Escobar
*Published by Scholasti*c *on 12th February 2026*

Murder at the Ivy Hotel is a cosy whodunnit, brimming with charm, intrigue and danger, that kept me utterly entranced throughout.

Meredith and her younger sister, Macy, live in an apartment in the grand Ivy Hotel in Dublin where their mother is the General Manager. Changes are afoot at the hotel as it faces a change of ownership, something that is causing their mum stress as the new owners are more interested in profit than retaining the cosy and friendly character of the beloved hotel where long-term residents and staff feel more like family than guests. When it seems that the new owners are keen to find reasons to dismiss their mum, there is a real possibility that Meredith and Macy may lose their home, something they are determined to fight against.

But then something happens that may well ruin the reputation of the hotel: the suspicious death of a guest. Could a murder have taken place and, if so, can the sisters discover the culprit and save the their home?

And so begins a terrifically twisty, intriguing mystery as the sisters and their new friend, Colin, work together to solve a puzzling crime. I loved the blend of cosy mystery, intrigue and danger that had me eagerly turning pages as I followed this sleuthing trio as they worked together to piece together the clues to discover the culprit behind this crime. I really enjoyed the sense of urgency as the mystery unfolds over the course of a week, the increasing level of peril and the red herrings all of which made this an exciting and fast-paced read which I have no doubt its young readers will adore – just as I did! I can also imagine many young readers wanting to keep their own notes – just as Colin does – as the mystery unfolds.

The tenacious trio of children in this whodunnit are incredibly likeable and together bring different qualities to form a perfect sleuthing team. Twelve-year-old Meredith has an intuitive and sensible nature whereas her ten-year-old sister Macy is more impulsive and practical. Their new friend Colin, who lives at the hotel, is meticulous and keeps notes as they investigate the crime. I also really enjoyed the feeling of family within the hotel as the children have close and trusting bonds with both employees and long-term guests who clearly care for them.

A delightfully charming and cosy mystery, with friendship and family at its heart, perfect for young sleuths of 9+.

Thank you to Scholastic for sending me a proof copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Magpie Girl by Rowan Foxwood

Written by Rowan Foxwood
Cover Illustration by Crystal Kung
Internal Illustrations by Tim Banks
*Published by Usborne Publishing Limited*

Magpie Girl is an utterly enchanting story, a story of belief and connection, of family and friendship, that completely captured me and swept me into the most magical adventure.

Thirteen-year-old Lavender Wild, the magpie girl, talks to birds, has a talent for finding lost things and even grows magpie feathers and has flying dreams as she sleeps. Whilst Lavender longs for adventure beyond her village of Maidswell, her father is reluctant to let her out of his sight as she had gone missing for four months five years before. So it is that Lavender finds herself accompanying her father to the home of Lord and Lady Noble to make a delivery, hoping to avoid a meeting with their son, Kit, who had been her best friend before she disappeared but who now seems to despise her even though she does not understand the cause for his dislike.

But when an earthquake occurs and Kit’s father goes missing on his annual pilgrimage to the Cries, a dormant volcano in the Ironridge Mountains, these two former friends find themselves setting out together on a perilous rescue mission. And so begins a truly magical adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat as I followed these two courageous and determined children on their dangerous, heart-pounding quest. A quest where family secrets are revealed, where a fractured friendship begins to heal and where a fabled firebird rises … Can these two work together to defeat the firebird before their village faces its flames?

I love stories which are inspired by folklore and mythology and these are seamlessly woven into this magical adventure as Lavender and Kit meet deities, daemons and witches as well as the firebird, some of whom prove allies but others frightening foes, one in particular that sent a shiver down my spine. I don’t want to say too much for fear of spoilers, but I really enjoyed discovering the breath-taking connections within the story as well as the re-connections that are made.

This captivating adventure is set in the same world as the spellbinding Heartseer, with some familiar characters, but can easily be read as a stand-alone although I have no doubt readers who have not already read Heartseer will want to seek it out after reading this story.

I absolutely adored both Lavender and Kit and loved following them, not only on their quest to save Kit’s father, but also on their journey towards self-belief and re-connection as their friendship heals and trust returns. Whilst Kit is cautious and careful, Lavender is torn between her happiness to have returned home and her longing for adventure. Their quest proves transformational for both, bringing hope of new beginnings, freedom to be themselves and an inner strength gained from being true to themselves.

The full-page illustrations are absolutely stunning and capture the magic, warmth and adventure perfectly.

A mesmerising, magical adventure, glowing with the warmth of family and friendship, perfect for young adventurers of 9+.

Thank you to Usborne for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: Swanfall by Sophie Kirtley

*Written by Sophie Kirtley*
*Cover Illustration by Ben Mantle*
*Published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books*

Swanfall is a magical, wintry adventure, lyrical and mesmerising, a story imbued with the wonder of nature and the bonds of friendship, that completely captivated me.

Eleven-year-old Pip has been living with his mum in Keeper’s Cott on the wetlands for four years. He is excited to welcome the return of the Arctic swans in their annual migration from Siberia to Rushy Lake, especially his three favourites: Moonshadow, Midnight and Silver, recognisable by their unique beak markings. This swanfall is a magical experience for nature-loving Pip and is an event that he helps record each year with his mum who is a wetlands ranger. But when his mum is called away to help another ranger, circumstances find Pip alone …

Awoken in the middle of the night, Pip opens the door to discover the ground laden with snow and the call of the first swans arriving. Discovering footsteps in the snow, Pip begins to wonder if an ancient story, discovered in a donated book, could be more than just a legend …

And so begins the most magical, mesmerising adventure as Pip and his friends work together to discover the incredible, heart-breaking truth behind the legend of three siblings who disappeared in tragic circumstances many years ago. Could the book Pip has found at the mobile school library hold the key to unlocking a tragedy? Could the songs appearing in the book, and whispered in the air, reveal a way to break a terrifying curse?

This is an absolutely gripping, thrilling adventure brimming with risk and danger, with breath-taking discoveries and revelations that, coupled with the short, often cliff hanger chapter endings, made this a story that I read in one sitting.

I really enjoyed the atmospheric, wintry setting on the wetlands with snowstorms and frozen lakes which have the ability to both hide and reveal, to bring both fear and hope. I adored reading Irish folklore tales when I was growing up in Ireland, and The Children of Lir is one of my favourites, so I loved how this myth is intricately woven into this contemporary story with some wonderful twists.

Pip is an incredibly likeable young boy, someone who finds it difficult to remain focussed in school, and who is worried about losing his best friend when he begins to form other friendships. He is much more confident when surrounded by the wetlands habitat and helping his mum with her work in recording the annual swanfall. I loved how teaming up with others to solve the mystery brought Pip into a wonderfully supportive friendship group with a real sense of strength and belonging.

A spellbinding story of friendship, connection and belonging, perfect to snuggle up with on a cold, wintry day to be enveloped in an unforgettable adventure.

Review: Tomorrow’s Ghost by Tanya Landman

*Cover Illustration by Tom Clohosy Cole*

Tomorrow’s Ghost is a haunting time-slip historical adventure, a story of connection, of bravery and hope, that completely captivated me.

Twelve-year-old Anna wakes from an unsettling dream to hear her Aunt Maggie making arrangements to send her away for the summer. When her Aunt wakes her in the morning, she tells her that she has been invited to stay with her Auntie Em who has sprained her ankle and wants her to help out whilst she recuperates. Not wanting to cause any trouble and feeling that she is a burden on her Aunt Maggie, Anna agrees to stay with Aunt Em, someone she barely knows.

Not sure what to expect, Anna is pleasantly surprised to be welcomed off the train by a grateful Aunt Em who introduces her to Bob, a huge, excitable bundle of canine delight. Taking the bus to Pear Tree Cottage, Anna immediately feels comfortable in this isolated, picturesque cottage – although her dreams of a young girl, Etty, seem to have followed her from London.

Taking Bob for an early morning walk, he races off after a fox and Anna follows only to find herself on a road leading to locked wrought iron gates. Despite the warning to keep out, Anna needs to find Bob so climbs over the wall to discover a huge, ruined mansion from which sadness emanates. Could this be the house from her dreams, the house where Etty was taken following a tragedy?

As Anna learns more about Etty’s life through her vivid dreams, she realises that she is in terrible danger. Can Anna find a way to cross time to save Etty but, in doing so, will she put her own life at risk?

I absolutely loved this beautifully atmospheric story that brings together two young girls from different times in an intricate, poignant story with some wonderful and unexpected twists. I really enjoyed that the reader learns Etty’s story reflected through Anna’s dreams which gives an otherworldly quality which contrasts with the reality of Anna’s life as she supports her Aunt through her recovery.

Both Anna and Etty are incredibly sympathetic young girls who, despite living in different times, share a connection through the loss of parents at a young age. Anna feels that she is a burden to her hard-working Aunt Maggie who has taken care of her since her parents’ death so she always smiles and agrees to suggestions, regardless of how she is feeling. She is growing apart from her best friend and doesn’t really know how to start a new friendship with the boy she meets in the village shop. Etty has the weight of her cruel, uncaring Grandfather’s expectations upon her young shoulders but she is determined to fight against his demands and seek her freedom. I loved how these two young girls, in need of friendship and understanding, find each other but can they also find what they need in their own time?

A beautifully told, time-slip adventure that brings two young girls together in a poignant and heart-warming story, perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Walker Books for sending me a copy of this book. My review is my honest opinion of the book.

Review: The Last Day of October

*Written by Phil Hickes*
*Illustrated byOriol Vidal*
*Published by Barrington Stoke (an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers)*

The Last Day of October is a superbly spine-tingling middle-grade horror story where the past comes to haunt the present with terrifying effects … an absolutely gripping page-turner that kept me spellbound, and shivering, throughout.

The small town of Column Falls, Oregon has been decorated for Halloween, ready for trick-or-treating to commence, but Cody is seeking something altogether more scary. And what could be scarier than visiting the haunted ruins of McBride House where legend has it that the ghosts of the children who were trapped in the house appear on the last day of October.

Persuading his friends Sean and Duri to go with him, the trio head into the woods where they discover the McBride house with an open door and a light in an upstairs window. Eager for adventure, Cody convinces his friends to step inside, but will they discover the terrifying truth before it is too late?

Oh my goodness! This is everything I love about middle-grade horror. It’s genuinely spine-tingling with a brilliantly eerie atmosphere that kept me on the edge of my seat. The sense of anticipation and dread builds inexorably as the children realise the horrifying fate that awaits. I loved the setting of an old house in the woods surrounded by fog, the stillness and sounds, the prescient warning and the unsettling feeling that something has been set in motion that cannot be stopped. This really is the perfect autumnal spooky season read, but one I think best enjoyed before darkness descends – and preferably tucked up under a cosy blanket with some hot chocolate. No, on second thoughts, no hot chocolate – its guaranteed to spill as you shiver with fright!

The stunning illustrations, with a focus on light and dark, complement the eerie atmosphere and hidden terrors of this story perfectly.

Treat yourself to a genuinely spooky read which might just have a few tricks to play … perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Barrington Stoke for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is published by the wonderful Barrington Stoke who publish dyslexia-friendly, super-readable and accessible books for children of all ages. This is suitable for 9+ with a reading age of 8.

Review: Gloam

*Written by Jack Mackay*
*Illustrated by Ben Joel Price*
*Published by Rock the Boat*

Gloam is a deliciously dark, spine-chilling gothic horror, a thrilling, tension-filled and atmospheric story, that completely captivated me.

After the death of their mother, the Clayton-Fenn siblings, and their stepdad, are relocating to Gloam Island where they have inherited their grandmother’s old, neglected house which has been empty since her death a year before. Strange amulets, each with a painted eye, hang in each room and, when Gwen is frightened that night by a noise and sees yellow eyes staring at her, she assumes it is the amulet, but could something more sinister be in the house?

When their stepdad gets a job on the mainland, he hires a babysitter, Esme Laverne, to look after the siblings despite Gwen insisting that she can take care of her younger siblings. Whilst Henry and her siblings seem immediately charmed by the delightful, kind-mannered Esme, Gwen is instantly on her guard against this stranger in her home. When her suspicions are confirmed, and she is given a dire warning, Gwen is determined to protect her family by getting rid of the intruder.

And so begins the most gripping, spine-tingling story as Gwen finds herself in a battle against a great evil, determined to destroy the family, using manipulation and control, hiding beneath a sickly layer of sweetness. Just as the rot creeps and festers over the hall, this insidious sinister babysitter steals into the lives of the family, pitting them against each other and awakening their worst nightmares. Can Gwen convince her family of the danger in their midst before it is too late? Will she be able to protect those she loves by facing the living nightmares that haunt them?

What an absolutely gripping gothic horror story that absolutely sent frissons of fear down my spine as an ominous threat of danger follows the family. I’m just glad I was reading it in glorious sunshine in my garden, but I must admit that this will be a perfect spooky season read – but one where you’ll probably need to sleep with the lights on afterwards – or is that just me? I loved the setting on an island (aptly named) that is cut off from the outside world when the tide covers the causeway, the chilling, bleak weather and the old, neglected house with spreading rot. I really enjoyed the palpable tension, and frights, that kept me on tenterhooks as I read, making this an unputdownable read.

Gwen is such a sympathetic young girl. She is grieving the recent death of her mother and that of her grandmother, but is keeping her grief trapped inside. She feels protective towards her younger siblings and feels a responsibility, and willingness, to take care of them. Like her siblings, she shows incredible strength and courage in facing her fears, but perhaps, for Gwen, the greatest fear that she must face is allowing herself the time and freedom to grieve. I really enjoyed the relationship between the siblings which felt really authentic with their close bond sometimes being tested by arguments and falling outs, but always being there for each other when it really matters.

There are no illustrations in the e-ARC that I read but I have seen some illustrations online which look absolutely fantastic and I have no doubt will add to the eeriness of this story. I will definitely be adding a finished copy of this to our school library as so many children are huge fans of horror and I have no doubt that this one will prove very popular.

A superbly spine-tingling read – dark and creepy – perfect for readers of 9+ to read before the summer ends or on a cold, dark evening as spooky season approaches – if they dare!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for providing me with an e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Review: The Notwitches: Prison Break!

*Written by Gary Panton*
*Illustrated by Dotty Sutton*
*Published by Chicken House Books*

Melanda Notwitch is back in another hilarious, heart-warming adventure in The Notwitches: Prison Break – and what a terrific treat this is for readers of 7+.

Eleven-year-old Melanda Notwitch is no longer living with her awful aunts, but with Mitch the witch and her almost-talking-cat Rolo. Life is almost perfect for Melanda – writing stories and eating soup – but there are two very important people missing: her parents. Unfortunately, they are imprisoned in the Dark and Horrible and Disgusting Prison for Witches, a prison that Melanda is determined to break them out of. All she needs is a plan!

And what better plan to get into a prison than to get arrested? All the Notwitches need to prove that they are witches is a Public Display of Witching, something that is guaranteed to get them arrested – if only they can get people to come to the performance – and be unlucky enough to be spotted by a witch hunter. And it just so happens that witch hunter Craig is looking to catch his first witches …

And so begins a wickedly fun, fast-paced adventure as Melanda, Mitch and Rolo find themselves on the way to prison to carry out a prison break. Can they outwit a moustachioed Chief Guard, a wrestling-loving Governess and witch hunters to rescue Melanda’s parents? Will the rather unusual creatures they meet, including a Slug Beast and wombats, be a help or a hindrance?

This is a brilliant second adventure for Melanda which can be read as a standalone. But I have no doubt readers will want to catch up with her first adventure – and find out about those awful aunts – if they haven’t already done so. The blend of humour and heart, wackiness and wickedness, in this adventure is just perfect. The short chapters, playfulness of the language, fast-paced action and wonderful twists and turns will keep young readers turning pages and is ideal for building reading stamina.

I really enjoyed being back with Melanda, Mitch and Rolo and love the close bond of friendship between them. Melanda shows kindness and empathy towards others and stands up to, and for, others, proving herself a good friend when support is needed. I think this is a wonderful message that shines through the wonderful humour in this story. And can I just mention Rolo – what a hero – absolutely adorable and deserving of all the soup!

The full-and-partial-page illustrations throughout are absolutely brilliant: expressive and energetic, complementing the humour and heart of this adventure perfectly.

A feast of wacky fun, with family and friendship at its heart, serving up giggles galore for young readers.

Thank you to Laura Smythe PR and Chicken House Books for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.