The House of Hidden Wonders

Zinnie lives with her sisters in Edinburgh’s murky underworld. Having experienced life in an orphanage, she is determined to keep them together and free from institutions, doing whatever she can to feed them. One way she has found of earning money is working for Mr Conan Doyle who pays her to do jobs for him. When he asks her to observe a seance, Zinnie finds herself caught up in a mystery involving bodies with missing ears, ghosts and the mysterious House of Hidden Wonders and its sinister owner, MacDuff.

This is such a fabulous read. Richly atmospheric, Victorian Edinburgh is the perfect setting for the story and Sharon Gosling has obviously invested a great deal of time researching locations such as Mary King’s Close to add colour and detail to the story. Her historical note at the back of the book adds further information about this and other details included. Similarly, the inclusion of real historical figures, Arthur Conan Doyle and Dr Jex-Blake, add to the interest and appeal. Hints at Conan Doyle’s writing might lead children to discover some of his stories and the struggles faced by Dr Jex-Blake as a female doctor could start discussions about the hardships women have had to overcome through the years. Lady Sarah’s inspirational attitude to life and her insatiable attitude for adventure and exploration are wonderful and again, the attitudes to women and their abilities are exposed through the reactions of some of the other characters towards her.

Zinnie is a fabulous character; fiercely loyal and protective of Nell and Sadie, the ‘sisters’ she has adopted from the streets, her tenacity and determination to give them security is truly touching. Sadie and Nell are equally well developed character. Sadie’s flair with herbs and natural remedies clearly shows how the poor could not afford medicines and how suspicion about women healers still lingered. Her desire to help and heal shine through, particularly when trying to save Nell, the youngest of this little family.

The plot is full of twists and excitement with touches of the macabre. There is so much to comment on and praise- yet this might ruin the story for others and I would hate to do that!

‘The House of Hidden Wonders’ is a brilliant read, full of mystery, action and adventure with some scary bits thrown into the mix. A must read!

The House of Hidden Wonders Sharon Gosling

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788951906