The Notorious Virtues

Honora Holtzfall- known as Nora- has always been considered her place in the succession of the most powerful family in all of Walstad. However, when her mother, the current Holtzfall Heiress, is found dead, suddenly the chance to control the wealth and the magic of the country is open to Nora’s cousins as well. Pitted against each other in the Veritaz Trials, a magical competition which decides the true heir, Nora and her cousins are stunned to learn of another contender, Lottie, the illegitimate daughter of Nora’s aunt. When she most needs to be focused on the events which will decide her future, Nora’s attention is diverted as she suspects that her mother’s death was actually murder.

‘The Notorious Virtues’ is a fabulous read. Utterly compelling, it mingles fantasy and fairy tale against a background of social unrest and revolution. Intrigue, deception, betrayal and loss have contributed to the creation of a highly dysfunctional family, living a life of untold privilege, clearly showing that money does not buy or guarantee happiness.

Events are related through the eyes of four different characters, but the story really revolves around the lives of Nora, the heiress presumptive, and Lottie, the cousin who grew up in a harsh convent with no idea of her true identity. Characterisation is one of the huge strengths of this story as the author skilfully develops each, creating genuine, flawed, interesting individuals where she might have settled for less. Both of these girls learn a great deal about themselves, the world they live in, family and trust as the story builds to its compelling- but open for the next step- climax.

Woven into the fabric of the story is ‘The Tale of the Woodcutter’, a fairy tale which explains how the Holtzfall family gained their position and how the trials came to be. The family are not only powerful in terms of wealth, but also of magic, creating huge tension between the haves and have-nots of society and leading to unrest, headed by a faction known as the Grims. However, there are shades of grey throughout the story with good and evil on both sides and a sense that equality for all might not be the true endgame. The story offers plenty to think about as well as an entertaining and engaging read.

It is a long book, but it is very well written and words are not wasted, making it very easy to escape into and enjoy! I can’t wait to see what happens next!

The Notorious Virtues

Alwyn Hamilton

Faber ISBN: 978-0571342150

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks

An ancient feud between Queen Titania and King Oberon has turned into a cruel war between the people of Silvanland and Penumbra. When the young Silvan prince, Corylus Silvanhart, is captured, the situation seems desperate. In the mortal world, the kidnap is witnessed by Oli Gill, who unwittingly travels through a portal to the magical kingdom where her arrival will change everything.

Although not a very long book, ‘The Curse of the Silvan Oaks’ is a vividly described, action rich adventure, with engaging characters and suitably wicked villains.

Having recently lost her father and been moved from all she knows, Oli finds herself at Foxley Hall where her mother has been employed. She finds herself catapulted into another world where she has no idea how important she is or the role she will play in helping to end the war which is raging there. Determined to help, she is both loyal and kind, helping Cory- Prince Corylus- to see that he is brave in his own way. Cory is my favourite character, however! Constantly comparing himself to his brother, Zandor, who Cory believes has inherited all his parents’ daring and determination, Cory feels he is both a failure and an embarrassment to his family. Yet, through his adventure, he shows himself to be resourceful and courageous, every bit the ‘prince’ his brother is.

The book contains a wide range of characters, yet the author manages to breathe life into each, offering a wealth of possible future stories as it feels as if there is plenty more to come from this world. References to the story of Oberon and Titania may well pique the curiosity of the reader, leading them to discover more through folklore and Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

This one is well worth a read!

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks

Georgia Channon

Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782695011

Out on the 10th April

Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano

Aggie Morton lives in Torquay with her mother and grandmother. Although bright and imaginative, she is very shy, but one day, she meets a twelve-year-old Belgian immigrant, Hector Perot, forming a new friendship. When she finds a body under the piano at the Mermaid Dance Room where she goes for lessons, Aggie and Hector set about trying to solve the mystery and save Aggie’s dance teacher, Miss Marianne from being convicted of the crime.

Inspired by the life of Agatha Christie, ‘The Body Under the Piano’ is an excellent murder mystery, full of engaging characters, suspects, clues and red-herrings. For me, it was a one-sitting read- and I shall be catching up on the rest of the series as soon as possible!

Set in Torquay where Agatha Christie grew up, both the setting of the story and the character of Aggie draw on the life of the Queen of Crime whilst Hector Perot bears more than a passing resemblance to Poirot. Even Grannie Jane, who often refers to people and places she has known, has a hint of Miss Marple about her! For young readers, the book makes an excellent introduction to the murder mystery novel - and paves the way to the novels of Christie in future years! The author’s note at the end of the book adds detail and interest.

The plot is well-paced and engaging, keeping the reader guessing and guessing again as Aggie and Hector investigate. There is plenty of fun along the way as the crack the case. Out in paperback in April, this is a very enjoyable read!

Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano

Marthe Jocelyn, illustrated by Isabelle Follath

Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839136078

Westfallen

Although Henry, Frances and Lukas are no longer best friends, they meet up for the funeral of their pet gerbil. Whilst digging the grave, they make an amazing discovery- a radio which allows them to communicate with another group of three children who live in the very same place, only eighty years in the past.

Sharing information about their lives, Henry and his friends learn that the sweet shop which Alice, Lawrence and Artie go to in 1944 burns down so to prevent this accident, they get their new friends to take action to save it. However, they quickly learn that the slightest alteration can have far reaching consequences and as one change leads to another, they find they have changed history in the worst way possible.

I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy this one- but how wrong I was! ‘Westfallen’ is a compelling and addictive read which I could not put down. The story moves between events in the past and present, building tension and suspense as Henry, Frances and Lukas find themselves trapped in a real-life nightmare.

As the story opens, Henry, Lukas and Frances, childhood friends, have drifted apart with Henry feeling left behind by the others. Sporty, Lukas has moved on with the popular crowd and Frances has dyed her hair and found new friends. The excitement of their discovery and its subsequent events bring them back together again, rekindling the bond they had previously. As the children are plunged into the horror of a future where Nazi ideology is ruling America, Lukas, who is Jewish, finds himself suddenly doing menial labour tasks, rejected by those who in his other life were his friends and Henry, who is biracial, is labelled a ‘mischling’, assigned to ‘work learning’. The story captures a chilling sense of constant fear as those not considered Aryan suffer under the brutal regime.

The story also offers plenty to think about. It poses questions about what people become under certain conditions, how evil flourishes and how people can be destroyed. It is far from comfortable reading in places, challenging readers to think ‘what if...?’ and reflect on how every choice and decision has a consequence.

An excellent read!

Westfallen

Ann Brashares and Ben Brashares

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526685490

Deep Dark

Cassia Thorne lives in the Fleet with her father, who is in prison for debt. She does what she can to support them by selling ballads in the streets and giving music lessons. When the younger brother of her friend goes missing, Cassia is determined to find him and with the help of Teo, a pickpocket and Felix Bradshaw, a well-to-do young man, she discovers a sinister plot, involving missing children and rumours of a fearsome beast lurking beneath the streets of London.

‘Deep Dark’ combines historical detail, fantasy and a sinister mystery to create a compelling adventure.

Set in Victorian London, the story includes plenty of real history. The threat of the workhouse, the evils of debtors’ prison, the lives of mudlarks and costermongers all help to build a vivid picture of Cassia’s world as she strives to make more of her life. Trapped in the Fleet due to her father’s misfortunes, she is determined to free herself from the poverty and limitations of her life whilst painfully aware that she is only one step away from life in the workhouse. The excitement and wonders St Bartholomew’s Fair offers a stark contrast to these realities, capturing the bustle and energy of those enjoying its sights and sounds.

A note at the end of the book adds some historical detail and context, offering suggestions for further investigation and research should readers wish to discover more whilst a map at the beginning allows them to follow Cassia’s adventures and realise that many of these places are still there in today’s London.

Cassia is a really strong, well-rounded character. Although ambitious and determined, she also experiences moments of doubt about the enormity of what she is trying to do and the realities of her situation. A loyal friend with a big heart, it is impossible not to like her and feel invested in her success as she takes on a seemingly impossible challenge, locating and freeing the missing children, caring when others so not. The contrast between Teo and Felix underlines the lack of social equality which existed (and continues to do so). Each boy is full of personality, each endearing in their own way.

The story comes to a satisfying conclusion, yet there is obviously more to come for Cassia, leaving readers keen for the next book to appear! ‘Deep Dark’ would make an excellent story time read for a Y6 class with plenty of tension and excitement to keep them on the edge of their seats as they root for Cassia every step of the way!

Deep Dark (A Cassia Thorne Mystery)

Zohra Nabi

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398532922

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

Twins, Misha and Ziggy, share a secret. Misha can talk to animals whilst Ziggy can shapeshift into them. When they accompany their dad, a wildlife TV presenter, on a trip to Ethiopia, they are determined to help him find the legendary black lion. However, when they discover poachers are threatening the wildlife, they are sure they can use their powers to help.

‘Legend of the Black Lion’ is a very engaging and enjoyable adventure story. The idea of being able to speak to animals is really appealing, making this sure to be a very popular book- the first of a new series.

The twins are lively and full of personality, who share a lovely relationship with their hard-working dad. Excited to see all the wildlife, they are also keen to use their powers to help their father get footage of the famous- and elusive- black lion. Their adventure contains just the right amount of jeopardy and tension to make the story exciting without causing upset and reaches a very satisfying conclusion where the goodies triumph and all is well!

Another lovely thing about this story is the amount of general information it contains about Ethiopia and its wildlife. Readers are sure to be fascinated by the fact that Ethiopia has a different calendar to the Western one, for example. Additional information at the end of the book about both black lions and Ethiopia is included and there are plenty of lovely illustrations, bursting with personality, which add much to the story.

‘Legend of the Black Lion’ would make an excellent class story!

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398520486

Call the Puffins: Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Muffin, Tiny and the rest of the trainee rescue puffins on the Island of Egg are all taking part in a special festival called Puffin Power. Tiny’s team has gained a new member, a little yellow chick called Flotsam, who has appeared and is determined to join in the fun. However, when Flotsam goes missing, all the young puffins rush to help- even though it means going into the dark caves where, legend has it, the Wandering Puffin lies in wait for visitors…

‘Tiny and the Cave Ghost’ is the fourth book in this delightful series about the Puffin Rescue Team trainees on the Island of Egg. Gorgeous illustrations combined with enjoyable adventures and firm friendships makes these stories ideal for younger readers- although I know several older children who absolutely love them!

Full of positive messages about friendship and teamwork, this adventure takes the young puffins on a rescue mission as they face their fears and work together to find little Flotsam who has wandered off and got into trouble. Tiny shows real leadership skills, combining an excellent idea with things learned on training to come up with a rescue successful rescue plan. The story involves just the right amount of peril and tension, making the story engaging, but not too worrying! Ella Okstad’s wonderful black and white illustrations capture the personality of each puffin perfectly.

Information about puffins is included at the end of the book, adding to the enjoyment of the story. In this book, readers learn that puffins’ beaks do glow- something which comes in useful whilst the team are in the caves!

Perfect for animal/ bird lovers or anyone who enjoys a good adventure, these wonderfully engaging little books are a real treat!

Call the Puffins! Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Cath Howe, illustrated by Ella Okstad

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536407

Published on the 13th March 2025

You can read my review of ‘Tiny’s Brave Rescue’ here and my blog tour post for ‘Call the Puffins’ here

Watch Your Back

Starting the new school year has been a challenge for Kara. Her best friend, Eden, has a new boyfriend and has completely cut her off, leaving her friendless. When the year ‘freak’, Romilly, comes to her aid, Kara finds herself drawn into a friendship which she is unsure about and when unsettling things start to happen, Kara can’t help but suspect Romilly is behind them…

I love a book by Sue Wallman and I think this might be the best yet! ‘Watch Your Back’ is both thought-provoking and compelling, an absolute one-sitting read…and it took me almost to the conclusion to work out what was going on!

The story is cleverly plotted with plenty of clues, red herrings and twists, making it a very satisfying mystery. A sense of uneasy tension mounts as Kara starts to doubt all those around her, losing trust in them and feeling betrayed when her suspicions are not taken seriously. As she finds the tables turned so that she appears to be the aggressor rather than the victim, Kara’s sense of panic is all too real as she struggles to prove her innocence.

Kara is a really likeable, flawed, genuine character, with a loving family, living a messy, ‘real’ life which many readers will be able to relate to. When her close relationship with her one, best friend suddenly ends, she is completely derailed and confused. Her sense of bewilderment and hurt at this sudden rejection and at Eden’s apparent enjoyment of being part of the ‘cool’ group is really well captured as Kara circles through feelings of anger, confusion, loss and self-doubt.

Romilly is also really well captured. Ostracised by her peers, she is desperate for friendship and finds the muddy waters of how she is expected to behave difficult to navigate. The casual, thoughtless unkindness she faces is a harsh reminder that our school system is not kind to everyone.

Manipulation, control, deceit and true friendship are all explored in this engrossing story. One not to be missed!

Watch Your Back

Sue Wallman

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702332920

Published 13th March 2025

The Appletree Animal Agency

Wishing on a shooting star for the puppy she desperately wants, Mattie knows it won’t happen as her Dad just doesn’t believe she is responsible enough yet to properly look after one. However, when she and her friend, Zoe, find a tiny, scruffy puppy in need of help, she rises to the challenge and meeting the new vet, Dr Polly and her son, Casper, all three children become her apprentice vets. Together, they care for all manner of pets, but soon realise that these creatures need to find homes of their own. That’s when Mattie has one of her madcap Mattie schemes…

‘The Apprentice Animal Agency’ is the first book in a new series which is sure to be a huge hit with young animal lovers. It offers a wonderful blend of gentle adventure, humour, friendship and mishaps, making it perfect for those who are after a well-written, engaging tale which is not packed with peril or fart jokes!

Mattie, Zoe and Casper are three really nice kids who are not fixed to their phones, but are keen to be hands on and active by helping look after animals. Zoe is highly organised, Casper ‘knows everything’ about animals and Mattie has a way with them, making the perfect team. However, not everything goes smoothly, showing each child’s flaws as well as their strengths. Each problem is overcome and the friends emerge stronger than before, offering reassurance and showing the importance of seeing things through and solving problems.

There is a real focus on care for animals which shines through this story. Mattie is desperate for a puppy, but Dad is keen to make sure she is responsible enough to look after one. On finding the puppy, who Mattie calls Luna, the children show great patience and understanding, waiting for it to be ready to come to them rather than rushing it. Each of the pets being rehomed is carefully matched to their new owner, considering the needs and well-being of both. It is not often that the thought needed when considering adopting a pet is shown in children’s stories so this is wonderful to see!

I look forward to seeing the second book in the series, ‘Collie Chaos’!

The Appletree Animal Agency

Katya Balen, illustrated by Gill Smith

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529519181

Wink, Murder

Mary is reluctantly leaving Bletchley Park, following orders which take her to Bedford and top-secret lessons in Japanese. The only girl in the group, she finds herself befriended by her American study partner, Spencer. Suddenly summoned back to Bletchley, Mary finds herself heading off on assignment to London where she is to pose as a waitress and listen in on the conversations of prisoners dining at the Ritz Hotel. To her surprise, Spencer has also been posted on this assignment and the two work together on the case. But odd things constantly remind Mary that she should ‘Trust no one’, making her question everyone…

This is the third ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ which features friends, Robyn, Ned and Mary and their experiences whilst based at Bletchley Park during WWII. They are cracking stories, full of excitement and adventure and historical detail. This book focuses on Mary, a mixed-race girl from Liverpool and is just as excellent as the first two.

There are so many elements to this book, all skilfully combined to create a really fascinating story. Not only does it offer a look at the world of espionage, its technology and agents, during the second world war, but it is very rich in background information about life at this time. Mary is caught on a bus during a bomb raid and she helps out with the WVS (The Women's Voluntary Service), allowing the reader to learn more about these things. The book also does not shy away from the racism and sexism she experiences, nor from the way immigrants were treated.

‘Wink, Murder’ would make an excellent class text, either for a thoroughly enjoyable class read or an equally enjoyable focus book to use to support learning about WWII. Additional notes at the end of the book support understanding of some of the elements in the story with plenty of links to enable those interested to explore further. Readers are sure to be inspired to visit Bletchley Park which is truly fascinating. I really hope there are more ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ books still to come as each one is even better than the last!

Wink, Murder: A Bletchley Park Mystery

Rhian Tracey

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800789593

You can read about my visit to Bletchley Park here.

Rebel Heart

In 1645, England is a country torn by war, with families and friends divided as they fight either on the side of the King or Parliament. While Merriweather Price’s father is away fighting for King Charles I, her home, Compton Blaize, is besieged by Cromwell’s men. Fearful that her step-mother is going to surrender to the enemy, Merri disguises herself as a boy and sets off in search of help.

‘Rebel Heart’ is historical fiction at its finest. Full of action and adventure, the story is also rich in the level of detail which creates a sense of atmosphere and period so essential for a story of this kind.

Merriweather is such an engaging character. Courageous and loyal, she is determined to live up to her family motto, ‘Fearless and True’, and save her family home. On her way to find help, she encounters both ruthless people exploiting the chaos of civil war as well as those who truly believe that they are fighting on the ‘right’ side, making her revaluate her own beliefs and question things which she has simply accepted.

The story highlights the harsh realities of war with Merri witnessing the horrors of the Battle of Naseby as well as the suffering of those not fighting, but caught in the brutality of civil war. It also reflects the role played by many women who were left to defend their homes, defying the conventions that society placed on them. Detailed notes at the end of the book offer much valuable background information as well as encouraging readers to explore this period further.

Books like ‘Rebel Heart’ are essential for broadening children’s knowledge and understanding of periods of history beyond those taught in the primary curriculum, sparking interest in and awareness of the many layers of history which are everywhere. As with her other books, Ally Sherrick has a talent for bringing the past to life and writing really memorable stories full of adventure.

Rebel Heart

Ally Sherrick

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026996

Published 13th March 2025

You can read my review of ‘Vita and the Gladiator’ here.

The Forbidden Atlas

Isaac and Hattie are in Paris at the National Archives, waiting to be presented with a special medal for rescuing the world’s clocks from disaster when a gunshot sets them off on another adventure, this time on the greatest treasure hunt in history- the legendary hidden treasure of King Louis XV1. As their search leads them into the maze of tunnels beneath Paris, the children find themselves pursued by a ruthless killer in a high-stakes race to discover the treasure- and save Paris.

Sam Sedgman has done it again with another gripping, beautifully written adventure which has all the thrills and spills, twists and turns readers have come to expect from his stories. ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is rich in history and detail as well as being a first rate, tension filled mystery.

A perfect balance of engaging characters allows Sam Sedgman to share so much information about Paris, the legend of Louis XVI’s treasure, the catacombs and maps, weaving this effortlessly into the story as each character shares their knowledge and understanding. Isaac, less impetuous and daring perhaps than Hattie, is full of scientific understanding, the love of learning and a determination to do the right thing Hattie is bursting with confidence and intelligence, quick to action and impulsive. Leon, who they meet on this adventure, has an insider’s knowledge of Paris and its secrets. As each shares what they know, the reader learns so much, gaining a deeper understanding of both the story and its setting. Additional information from the author at the end of the book clarifies where Sam Sedgman has ‘strayed from the path of truth for the sake of a good story’!

Like the first book in this series, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is an ingenious mystery, which will keep readers guessing and questioning every step of the way. It would make a cracking class story- one chapter (there are twenty- like the twenty arrondissements of Paris!) would never be enough! Fortunately, the ending gives a tantalising clue about the next story, ‘The Galileo Heist’…I can’t wait!

Isaac Turner Investigates: The Forbidden Atlas

Sam Sedgman, illustrated by David Dean

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665430

You can read my review of the first Isaac Turner Investigates book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, here.

George and the Mini Dragon

George is bursting with excitement. It’s his seventh birthday and he is desperate to see if he has been given all the presents on his list. Although he has lots to unwrap, he is really disappointed when he finds that he has not been given a pet. However, when blowing out his candles, George makes a birthday wish- and wishes for a pet dragon! When his wish comes true, George is delighted and names the little dragon Lava, but he soon realises that keeping his new pet a secret is not going to be easy!

‘George and the Mini Dragon’ is a delightful story, perfect for younger readers who will be swept along in the adventure. It is a story about family, friendship and fun!

George is a really appealing character and readers will quickly warm to him as his energy and enthusiasm are a real joy. Through the story, George shares details about having Downs Syndrome and how this impacts his life- how using Makaton helps him to communicate, how sometimes it can be annoying when people can’t understand him- encouraging empathy and understanding. The whole tone of the story is upbeat and positive, showing George with good friends, enjoying experiences which everyone can relate to.

The story is accompanied by wonderful illustrations which match the joy and energy of the text perfectly, making it even more engaging. Although a lovely story for both home and school, this would be excellent for a class story time. Having taught children with Downs over my years in the classroom, I would have loved to have had stories like this to share. Invaluable for being inclusive, ‘George and the Mini Dragon’ is above all a thoroughly enjoyable story.

George and the Mini Dragon

George Webster with Helen Harvey, illustrated by Tim Budgen

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702337291

The Great Theatre Rescue

Charley’s childhood has been unconventional and full of excitement. Her life revolves around The Wren theatre, where, at last, she has a chance to be on the stage, not just behind the curtains. However, when disaster strikes, Charley finds herself bundled off to St Mary-at-Cliffe School for girls which is less like a school and more like a prison. Here the pupils are kept hard at work to line the pockets of those in charge. Knowing the theatre is in peril, Charley is determined to escape, return to London and save the theatre that she loves.

‘The Great Theatre Rescue’ has it all! Vivid, atmospheric descriptions bring the places and characters in this story brilliantly to life as the plot romps along at a pleasing pace. There are dastardly baddies, courageous and determined heroines, historical figures - and a devoted canine companion- making this an adventure to appeal to everyone!

Charley is a very endearing, likeable character who is flawed and easy to identify with as she navigates the challenges thrown at her. Her developing friendship with Jewel, who she meets at school, is really handled and offers some interesting twists to the tale.

The harshness of the boarding school contrasts with the lively warmth and companionship of theatre life, giving the story real colour- and offering echoes of a Dickensian world. Orphans, street gangs, foundling babies, unexpected relationships, betrayal, heartache, love and loyalty transport the reader to another world as Charley strives to save the theatre and overcome her crippling stage fright. There is so much to love in this book.

The energy, tension and excitement of the story would make this an excellent choice for class story time, offering much to enjoy and plenty to discuss. A brilliant read!

The Great Theatre Rescue

Judith Eagle

Faber ISBN: 978-0571363308

You can read my review of ‘The Accidental Stowaway’ here.

Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable

Although Squirrel and Duck have little in common- Duck being jolly and Squirrel somewhat cranky- they live together with Duck’s pet cactus, Mr Spikes, in a fibreglass tree in an abandoned theme park. As talking animals, they need to keep a low profile which is working well until they discover that the theme park is to be demolished to make way for luxury apartments. When they overheard a conversation between two strangers about where they have hidden the most expensive painting in the world, they decide to find the picture with Duck planning to return it to its owner and Squirrel thinking they could use it to buy a new home. What could possibly go wrong?

Wonderfully whimsical, ‘Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable’ is bursting with humour. Pacey, energetic narrative is accompanied by lots of illustrations which help to build the different personalities of Squirrel and Duck as their adventure continues. The two friends are nothing alike and yet together they can ‘do anything’, making them the perfect team.

There are many giggle-worthy moments in the story, not least when Squirrel tries to speak to the grey squirrels in the woods, but is out of practice in ‘speaking squirrel’ and utters offensive nonsense instead. Good triumphing over evil, friendship saving the day, and a series of happy misadventures make for an enjoyable story with more adventures to follow.

Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable

Tom Percival

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665638

Capitana

Ximena Reale is determined to become a Cazadoro at La Academia de los Cazadores, but despite being a star student, her prospects are tarnished by her heritage. Five years ago, her parents were executed for being pirates and now her older sister’s behaviour is casting a shadow on Ximena’s rising star. When it seems that Gasparilla, a notorious, but supposedly dead, pirate captain, is in action once more, Ximena sees this as her opportunity to prove herself and achieve her dream…

‘Capitana’ is not normally the sort of book I would pick up- however, I am very glad that I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you haven’t read it, please continue at your peril as I might give some bits away!

The plot moves at a lively pace, full of action and with plenty of twists, as Ximena gradually begins to question everything she has known and believed in all her life. Strong, determined and single-minded, she has done her duty ‘to the Law, to the Queen and to the Empire’ without thinking, rejecting friendship and expecting the ill treatment caused by her parents’ disgrace. As the book develops, there is a real change in her persona and she begins to question the system she has always believed in as she sees the harm done by imperialism and ruthless authority on her journey to defeat Gasparilla, ultimately leading to her defying the Empire and taking a very different path.

The writing is really atmospheric, scattered with Spanish vocabulary, immersing the reader in Ximena’s world with vivid descriptions. Although there are many deaths and plenty of violence, the author manages to avoid being overly gory. Similarly, the simmering romance between Ximena and her arch rival, Dante de Leon, who has progressed through nepotism rather than effort, is really well handled, not over-done as it is in some ‘teen romance’ stories!

Great good stuff!

Capitana

Cassandra James

Hot Key Books ISBN: 1471416743

Out on the 4th February

The First Year

Nate is about to start secondary school. After a challenging final year at Primary, things seem to have settled for him and he is ready for a fun-filled summer before a fresh start in September. However, a new school brings new challenges- and some old. Avoiding Turner, conforming to endless rules and adapting to new teachers combined with a growing sense of distance between Nate and his brothers combine to unsettle him. And then, there’s a surprise reappearance in his life…

Writing the sequel to an incredibly popular book must be a daunting task. Reading such a sequel is hard enough- will the character maintain their personality? will they grow? will the plot be engaging or contrived? And most importantly, will it leave you with the same sense of awe and wonder as the first?

‘The Final Year’ made a huge impact on me - and on many children and adults who I have had the joy of discussing it with. In Nate, Matt managed to capture the very essence of many children I have taught over the years and really give them a voice. His extraordinary ability to do this continues in ‘The First Year’.

Starting secondary school is a massive change for children. Primary schools offer a far more secure, comforting environment, even for those who struggle with it, than the impersonal, large scale nature of secondary schools. For those already vulnerable and adrift, this can be completely overwhelming. Nate’s bond with Mr Joshua, the pull of the familiarity of his old school, the fact that his brothers are still there all combine to emphasise Nate’s sense of growing disaffection with his new school where he feels he is being labelled and judged. There is no empathy, no consideration for the turbulent emotions and confusion which might be colouring an individual’s life- and behaviour.

The seeming simplicity of the text belies the complexity of emotion and experience which the story explores. The power and poignancy in places is breath taking, making Nate’s continued story ever bit as engaging as it was in ‘The Final Year’. There is no doubting the skill of Matt’s writing- ‘The First Year’ is sure to gain just as many well deserved accolades as ‘the Final Year’.

The First Year

Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton

Otter Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659606

You can read my review of ‘The Final Year’ here.

Leo and Ralph

Ralph is Leo’s best friend. The two are inseparable, sharing a deep fascination for space and that comfortable understanding which only comes with a close friendship. But Ralph is imaginary and Leo’s parents feel it is time for him to say goodbye to Ralph as the family is moving to a different town. It’s a time for new beginnings…but it’s not always that easy to move on.

‘Leo and Ralph’ is a lovely, gentle story which focuses on family and friendship. It is a book which highlights how confusing school and navigating the world can be for those who see things a little differently, enjoy their own pace and whose minds are full of their own trains of thought. Leo is a delightful little boy, who finds a best friend created by his own imagination with whom he shares the things he loves.

Leo’s family- his mother, father and little sister, Peg, all try to support Leo in their own ways. They offer well intentioned advice and Leo does try to act on this. However, he finds his own solution to the ‘problem’ of friends by creating Ralph. The author skilfully explores Leo’s feelings of confusion and anxiety as he tries to please his family, feels guilty when he can’t and then his relief when he ‘finds’ Ralph. The warmth and affection of their relationship is a joy.

However, the story is not just about an imaginary friend. In his own time and in his own way, Leo forms a friendship which is just as strong and affectionate as that he shared with Ralph. Although initially he struggles to decide between his two friends, he is able to move on and appreciate a friend who helps him to learn new things whilst listening to and appreciating the things which Leo has to share. Their differences help to make their friendship strong!

I loved this story, and like many teachers, recognise Leo in many children I have taught. ‘Leo and Ralph’ would make a lovely class story, offering reassurance and comfort to some whilst developing empathy and understanding in others.

Leo and Ralph

Peter Carnavas

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695233

Published on the 13th February 2025

After Life

Cycling home after school one day, Amber Crane notices a few things are different; however, nothing prepares her for the shock of her mother screaming in horror when she sees her. Amber should be dead. Victim of a hit-and-run seven years ago, her death sent shockwaves of grief through her family and friends, impacting even those who barely knew her. So how is it possible that she has returned- and why?

‘After Life’ is a very powerful and thought-provoking novel, exploring ideas around grief, love and how one person can affect others in varying ways.

Told from differing view points through shifting time frames, the story builds the picture of what happened to Amber, her relationships when alive and the aftermath of her death, exploring range of ways people respond to and cope with (or not) surviving someone they knew, particularly one so young. There is much to absorb here. Her parents’ relationship- a love-at-first-sight dream match- cannot withstand the loss of their child; nor can the close bond of her mother and aunt. The building of the back story here through the time shifts and differing viewpoints emphasises the weight of what is lost. Similarly, it allows the reader to learn that not all in Amber’s life was as she thought it was, meaning her loss is weighted with guilt and regret for others who knew her.

There is so much to this moving story, but one of the most powerful elements for me is how Amber’s sister, Melissa, has kept her relationship with her sister alive after death by continuing to have conversations with her, nurturing her love for her and finding comfort in this way.

A beautiful book- have tissues at the ready!

After Life

Gayle Forman

Hot Key ISBN: 978-1471418310

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

On her tenth birthday, Meticulous- Metty- Jones, like other 10-year-olds, receives a magical tattoo on her hand which will indicate her fate. However, her excitement in discovering her destiny is dimmed when she sees an ink-black skull, held from underneath by a hand in a violet glove indicating her fate is to be a murderer. Hidden away by her father, Moral Jones, in a remote Welsh farmhouse, Metty tries to come to terms with this, but when Moral disappears, her Aunt Magnificent takes her to the magical city of New London, assuring her that she- Magnificent- will find Metty’s father. But rumours of a mysterious, dangerous society, known as the Black Moths, make Metty wonder whether they are connected to her father’s disappearance and begin to investigate for herself.

There is so much to enjoy in ‘Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo’ that is is hard to know exactly where to begin! It is a cracking read which bounds along at a pleasing pace, full of engaging characters and plenty of action. It’s quite amazing that I have managed to wait until now to review it!

Full of vim and vigour, Metty is a feisty character who shows courage and determination in the face of adversity and great love and loyalty to friends and family. She is an imperfect heroine, with strengths and flaws in equal measure, proving that our fates cannot be predestined, but made by our actions and reactions. As she comes to know Sundar, her aunt’s ward, they form a great partnership, their personalities complementing each other as their friendship develops. He is another very appealing character, enigmatic and cautious, the perfect foil to Metty’s impulsiveness. Faith O’Connell is another great character, once again proving the importance of forging your own path in life.

The world building is an absolute delight. Great attention to detail makes the story rich, increasing the reader’s enjoyment on every page. From the family names to the magic of ink, from the wonders of New London to the Dictionary of Fates, everything has been carefully thought about so the world flows seamlessly. It’s a world I look forward to returning to in future books!

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

Philippa Leathley

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0063376519

Published January 28th 2025