The Children of Wolf Rock is a companion novel to The Children of Castle Rock, set in the same boarding school, Stormy Loch Academy, in the stunning wilds of the Scottish mountains. An absolutely gripping, unmissable adventure: exciting, heartfelt and hopeful.

Eleven-year-old Minna is a first year student, boarding at Stormy Loch Academy, a school that her parents hope will suit her better than her local secondary – and they were right. On her first weekend, Minna is enjoying the freedom afforded by the school, eager to explore the stunning natural world which surrounds her so she soon finds herself climbing Wolf Rock. When she reaches the top, she discovers a secluded valley with an abandoned bothy – the perfect place to create a cosy den as she spends her first term exploring the surrounding woods, valleys and loch. Despite not readily making new friends, Minna is happy in these idyllic surroundings which provide a balm to the noise and business of home.

When the Easter holidays arrive, Minna decides to stay at the school, hoping to spend more time at the bothy. Two other students, Kass and Tom, are also staying – one who has been bullied and the other who has become a bully. Each has their own reasons to head to the hidden valley where they find an older, ex-pupil, Addie, playing her guitar, and accompanied by her adorable fox terrier. Over the next few days, the children form a bond of friendship with Addie – and each other.

But then everything changes … they find out that Addie has been lying to them and, after she leaves the valley, they discover that she has gone missing. Determined to find Addie and help her, the three children make a journey to London to uncover the truth of Addie’s past – and find themselves investigating a conundrum that could put them in terrible danger. Can Minna, Kass and Tom learn to trust each other and work together to help someone they all adore?

I was completely enthralled by this thrilling adventure as I raced between the Highlands and London with three determined and courageous young children. This is the epitome of a modern, classic adventure which kept me eagerly turning pages as the children unearth the truth behind the lies, and find themselves in increasing danger. I was genuinely gripped by their discoveries, their developing friendships, and their willingness to follow their hearts, even when this led to trouble, danger and difficulties.

This adventure is imbued with a heartfelt appreciation of the wild, isolated Scottish landscape, and its power to bring healing, hope and comfort. Growing up in rural Ireland, where I spent many happy hours roaming the mountains and peatlands, I can really appreciate this sentiment.

Whilst this is a companion novel to The Children of Castle Rock, I loved spotting a connection to another of the author’s wonderful adventures within the pages of this one.

Minna, Kass and Tom each have a different reason to be boarding at Stormy Loch Academy, and for spending their Easter holidays there. Getting to know these children, learning about their different home lives, understanding their struggles and successes, and watching their tentative steps towards friendship, through their shared bond with Addie, will encourage empathy in readers and allow others to see themselves in the pages of a book.

A wonderfully heart-warming and exciting adventure, with the bonds of friendship, and the comfort of nature, at its heart. Perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to Faber Children’s Books for sending me a proof of The Children of Wolf Rock. It was my decision to read and review this book and my review is my honest opinion.