Review: The Callers: The Hidden Forest: Book 2 by Kiah Thomas

SYNOPSIS

Return to the world of the Callers in this exciting middle-grade fantasy series that explores the amazing power of summoning objects into being and the ominous consequences of doing so. Perfect for fans of Rick Riordan.

The Callers, Book 1, which Printz Honor–winning author Garret Weyr called “beautifully told and engaging and just thrilling,” set the stage for a riveting series that introduced the world of Elipsom and its inhabitants’ unique ability to Call—or summon

In Book 2, a month has passed since Quin fled his home world of Elipsom after revealing the shocking truth about Calling: that the magic ability to conjure something out of thin air actually steals resources from another place. And that other place is Evantra, a nation suffering from exploitation by the Callers. Across the country, rumors are spreading that perhaps Calling isn’t a force for good after all. Even so, Quin’s sister, Davinia, has maintained calm under the pressure of her mother, the Chief Counselor of the Callers, who is determined to keep the status quo and quash anyone who questions the rightness of Calling. But when Davinia is assigned to investigate and plant evidence in a rebellious part of the city, her loyalties begin to waver.

Meanwhile, Quin and his friend Allie are in a race against the clock to heal the Vine, the source of all growing things in Evantra, which has been slowly dying. Their search leads them to a mysterious forest that may have the answers they seek—and the truth about Quin’s past.

Arresting and thought-provoking, this story explores some of the most crucial topics of our time and shows the power of standing up and fighting for a better tomorrow.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I started reading this book immediately after finishing the first one. And, I've gotta say, this sequel was just as entertaining and compelling! I was completely captivated by it!

I enjoyed seeing Quin’s character growth, and I loved seeing him embrace the truth of who he was. I also enjoyed seeing the friendship between him and Allie grow. They’re a great duo! I really enjoyed getting Davinia’s POV. She was wrestling with some things, and I was very curious to see how that would turn out.

This story ends on an even bigger cliffhanger than the first one, so I’m very anxious for the next book. It can’t come out soon enough!

FOUR STARS

Review: The Callers by Kiah Thomas

SYNOPSIS

Kenneth Oppel meets Andrew Clements in this riveting middle grade novel that will capture fantasy and fiction lovers alike as it thoughtfully explores the power of summoning, other worlds, and consumerism versus necessity.

Arresting, fast-paced, and thought-provoking, this nonstop middle grade adventure turns familiar magic upside down and inside out.

In the world of Elipsom, the ability to Call, or summon objects, is a coveted, crucial skill, revered among its people as both a powerful tool and an essential way to sustain life. But despite an elite family history, a phenom for an older sister, a best friend who is set to join the Council of Callers, and his mother's steely insistence that he learn to Call, Quin doesn't have the gift—an embarrassment made worse when his mother gets his sister to cheat for him on his Calling exam. But everything changes in a moment of frustration when Quin, instead of summoning an object, makes something disappear. And what's more, he quickly discovers that the objects Callers bring into their world aren't conjured at all but are whisked away from another world and a people who for years have had their lives slowly stolen from them. Now Quin must team up with Allie, a girl who's determined to stop this unfair practice, and decide whether he should remain loyal to his family or betray them—and save the world.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I really enjoyed this middle grade fantasy. It was unique, entertaining, and held my full attention. It had a bit of a dystopian feel to it, too, which I thought was done really well.

I really felt for Quin in the beginning. He felt like he was a letdown and a failure to his prestigious family. He didn’t have the ability to “Call” items like the rest of his family did. But I loved watching him grow and discover the truth about himself.

This was a fast-paced and quick read that I really enjoyed. It ended on a cliffhanger, though, so I’m very anxious to start the sequel! I’m curious to see what happens next!

I won this book in a giveaway and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Callers by Kiah Thomas

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring The Callers by Kiah Thomas. It's a really good middle grade fantasy.

SYNOPSIS

Kenneth Oppel meets Andrew Clements in this riveting middle grade novel that will capture fantasy and fiction lovers alike as it thoughtfully explores the power of summoning, other worlds, and consumerism versus necessity.

Arresting, fast-paced, and thought-provoking, this nonstop middle grade adventure turns familiar magic upside down and inside out.

In the world of Elipsom, the ability to Call, or summon objects, is a coveted, crucial skill, revered among its people as both a powerful tool and an essential way to sustain life. But despite an elite family history, a phenom for an older sister, a best friend who is set to join the Council of Callers, and his mother's steely insistence that he learn to Call, Quin doesn't have the gift—an embarrassment made worse when his mother gets his sister to cheat for him on his Calling exam. But everything changes in a moment of frustration when Quin, instead of summoning an object, makes something disappear. And what's more, he quickly discovers that the objects Callers bring into their world aren't conjured at all but are whisked away from another world and a people who for years have had their lives slowly stolen from them. Now Quin must team up with Allie, a girl who's determined to stop this unfair practice, and decide whether he should remain loyal to his family or betray them—and save the world.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Quintus Octavius had been staring at the same blank spot on the table for twenty-six minutes.

"Banana," he said for the twelfth time.

He held his breath. 

Nothing happened. 

Again.

Friday 56

Between the five of them, they managed to complete the work they'd been assigned while the stars were still bright in the sky.

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Harlow Morgan and the Sky City (Harlow Morgan, Book 1) by Lyndsey Lewellen

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Harlow Morgan and the Sky City (Harlow Morgan, Book 1) by Lyndsey Lewellen releasing November 17.

About the Book

Harlow Morgan: airship pilot, trouble magnet, possibly glowing.

Airship pilot-in-training, Harlow Morgan is a wiz in the sky—but her father’s disappointment on the ground.

In the steam-powered nation of Corshire, where science reigns and magic is outlawed, Harlow’s famous inventor father expects perfection. Her twin sister delivers. Harlow? Not so much. She’d rather be flying airships at the Academy than following in his brilliant footsteps.

But when a reckless lie puts a classmate’s future at risk—and exposes a hidden magical artifact tied to her family—Harlow finds herself swept into a dangerous underground war. With strange light burning across her skin and outlaw sorcerers on her trail, Harlow teams up with the boy she betrayed to unlock the truth behind the artifact… and survive the city in the sky.

If the deadly Magics don’t get her first, her father’s secrets just might.

With flying cities, wild inventions, secret magic, and a spunky heroine, Harlow Morgan and the Sky City launches The Harlow Morgan series, a middle grade fantasy series perfect for fans of Nevermoor, Keeper of the Lost Cities, and The Wingfeather Saga. A fun read for readers 10 and up!

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: The Agency of Magic and Mythical Creatures by Paul Regnier

About the Book

New middle school? Scary. Falling into a world of dragons and dark magic? Terrifying.

Twin siblings Kyle and Kenzie thought starting a new middle school was their biggest problem until a mysterious, golden dragon yanked them through a portal into a realm filled with mythical beasts, skeletal soldiers, and wand-wielding witches.

Stranded in a dangerous world where magic rules and nothing is as it seems, the twins join forces with a tiny dragon who’s lost his magic, and an ex-assassin with a haunted past. Their mission? Stop a power-hungry necromancer, survive an army of undead, and somehow find a way back home.

With danger lurking around every corner, Kyle and Kenzie must summon all their courage—and maybe even a little magic of their own.

Can they save this strange new world and get back home… or will they be trapped forever?

Perfect for fans of The Land of Stories, Fablehaven, and Percy Jackson, this fast-paced fantasy adventure is packed with magic, danger, and sibling teamwork.

Amazon / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

I used to think renaissance fairs were safe. Harmless opportunities for a bunch of fantasy fans like myself to pretend they had set foot in an enchanted world. Never did I imagine they were actually a clever cover for the underground market of magical creatures and artifacts.

This book was so much fun! I was completely hooked from the first paragraph and loved every second of this story. Well, except for the fact that it ended. I wasn't ready to say goodbye to these characters or this world. I didn't want the adventure to end.

Twins Kyle and Kenzie were very likable. I thought they handled themselves really well, considering how they were thrown into this new land. I thought they faced the dangerous situations with bravery. It was really cool seeing them experience it all. It had me imagining myself in the twins' shoes when I was a kid and, man, that would've been so cool.

I can't forget to mention Faltranor. He was my favorite character. I loved him.

This fun middle grade fantasy is sure to be loved by readers of all ages, young and old alike. I highly, highly recommend it. I had a blast reading it and hope there will be more adventures in the future!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: What the Sea Brings by Beverly Twomey

About the Book
The law of the sea is give and take, ebb and flow. Long ago, it took Lynnette's brother. Now, it's brought her a friend. Or is he an enemy?

Hidden away in an island cove, the Convent of Saer is a peaceful place guarded by mermaids, filled with endless sunlight and brightly clothed nuns. Despite the beauty around her, ten-year-old Lynnette is terribly lonely. In the midst of a frightening storm, she prays for a friend. The next morning, a half-drowned boy washes ashore.

Maddox is not what she expected. Clearly distrustful from the start, the eleven-year-old stranger cries too much and is skeptical of the Convent’s beliefs. If that weren’t bad enough, he’s the son of an emperor who wants to conquer Saer. When a royal guard arrives to track down the prince, Lynette and Maddox’s newfound friendship is put to the test. Lynnette must confront the Convent’s fear, protect her home, and face her own past before the friend the sea gave her is taken away.

Inspired by The Little Mermaid and Redwall, What the Sea Brings is a cozy middle grade fantasy that explores the importance and hardships of family, friendship, and faith.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

I adored this beautiful and emotional story. It truly touched my heart. While it had a bit of a slow start, I felt like the pace built at just the right speed. Never too fast or overwhelming. And never boring. I was hooked!

I loved the writing style. I felt completely immersed in the story. The world and the characters came to life. I felt like I could picture everything in crystal-clear clarity, which doesn’t always happen for me.

Lynette and Maddox were both extremely likable and easy to root for. Their friendship was really sweet. I liked that we were given both of their points of view.

I highly recommend this gentle and cozy middle grade story of grief, loss, forgiveness, and friendship. I wish I had read a book like this when I was growing up. It’s a very encouraging and relatable story.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Review: The Secret of Moonrise Manor: A Raven Gallows Mystery by Stephanie Bearce

About the Book

Wednesday Addams + Sherlock Holmes = Raven Gallows—a curious girl who uses her budding skills as a mortician and a scientist to investigate a mysterious death at her small town’s haunted hotel.

Raven Gallows lives in a funeral home and is determined to become a famous detective. Her first case is one close to home—find the truth surrounding her mother’s puzzling death six years ago.

When a mummified man is discovered behind a wall at the Moonrise Manor Hotel, Raven is shocked to see that the body is clutching her mother’s gold and silver locket.

Raven gathers her friends—Cosmina Wilde, who thinks she can talk to ghosts; Miles Farnsworth, who works at the haunted hotel; and Eric Wong, who possesses unparalleled computer skills—and sets out to learn the identity of the mummy. As they follow the clues, they discover more than they bargained for, including a stash of stolen art and a legend of a secret society.

The Secret of Moonrise Manor is a story about family, friendship, and the courage it takes to pursue the truth.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This middle grade mystery was a ton of fun! It’s full of wonderful characters and features a puzzling mystery set in the charming town of Sassafras Springs. One of my favorite parts was all the Edgar Allan Poe references and quotes! So clever!

The characters were wonderfully weird and quirky. Raven was likable, if a little hardheaded. I appreciated her curiosity and her love of all things science. Her friends were also very likable. Cosmina, her best friend who talks to ghosts; Miles, the new boy in town; and Eric, who’s great with research. I enjoyed seeing them all team up and use their unique skills to try to solve the mystery.

Speaking of the mystery, I thought it was really good. They found a mummy at Moonrise Manor, which might have a connection to the mysterious death of Raven’s mother. I had my suspicions about who the guilty party was and why they did it, but I wasn’t 100 percent sure until the reveal.

I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to reading more books following this group of mystery-solving friends.

I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Secret of Moonrise Manor: A Raven Gallows Mystery by Stephanie Bearce

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. It was started by Freda at Freda's Voice, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over for the time being.

This week I'm featuring The Secret of Moonrise Manor: A Raven Gallows Mystery by Stephanie Bearce. This is a fun middle grade mystery. I loved all of the Edgar Allan Poe references.

About the Book

Wednesday Addams + Sherlock Holmes = Raven Gallows—a curious girl who uses her budding skills as a mortician and a scientist to investigate a mysterious death at her small town’s haunted hotel.

Raven Gallows lives in a funeral home and is determined to become a famous detective. Her first case is one close to home—find the truth surrounding her mother’s puzzling death six years ago.

When a mummified man is discovered behind a wall at the Moonrise Manor Hotel, Raven is shocked to see that the body is clutching her mother’s gold and silver locket.

Raven gathers her friends—Cosmina Wilde, who thinks she can talk to ghosts; Miles Farnsworth, who works at the haunted hotel; and Eric Wong, who possesses unparalleled computer skills—and sets out to learn the identity of the mummy. As they follow the clues, they discover more than they bargained for, including a stash of stolen art and a legend of a secret society.

The Secret of Moonrise Manor is a story about family, friendship, and the courage it takes to pursue the truth.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Mrs. Butler looked quite peaceful as a corpse.

Friday 56

The light in the attic moved from gray to iridescent pink as the Sunday morning sun reflected through the lead-glass window.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Necromancer's Apprentice by Beverly Twomey

About the Book
Georgie would do anything to help his father - even learn the dying art of necromancy.

Twelve-year-old Georgie works hard to care for his grieving father while keeping his nosy younger cousin out of trouble. But when his father begins to decline even further, Georgie decides to bring back the one person who could do it all, his deceased mother.

The local Necromancer is an awkward and solitary man with an ancient black cat and a literal skeleton in his closet. With a few words, he can cause a dead sparrow to fly, stop an animated skeleton in its place, and even speak to the dead themselves. Georgie is quickly swept away into a world of skeletal horrors, abandoned graves, and wizard duels where woodland creatures arm themselves against the undead. But can he convince the Necromancer to resurrect his mother in time?

Perfect for fans of Diana Wynne Jones and T. Kingfisher, THE NECROMANCER’S APPRENTICE is a whimsical take on the process of grieving and learning to live again.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / Author's Website / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

“Grief is a funny thing. Sometimes we grieve what we never knew.”

“It doesn’t feel like grief.”

“Yes, it may look quite different from what those around you are experiencing. But it’s still grief and it’s still important.”

I loved this book so much! It's a heartwarming and whimsical tale of overcoming grief. Filled with wonderful characters, spooky moments, animated skeletons, a wizard duel, and so much more, I couldn’t get enough of it! It really tugged at my heartstrings.

It was a fun story that had me laughing out loud several times, but it also tackled some serious topics with grace and respect. Grief is hard, and nobody experiences it in the same way. I appreciated how it was so delicately woven into the story.

I really liked Georgie. His bond with cousin Ellory was so sweet. They were quite the pair! I admired Georgie’s determination and bravery despite his fear. And I loved Ellory’s inquisitiveness. I’d love a sequel that follows her.

This was a quick read, but it left a big impression. I'll be thinking about it for a long time. I finished the last half nearly in one sitting. I was completely enamored with the story.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole releasing August 6.

About the Book

In a world where paper is extremely scarce and books are priceless, Juni undertakes a dangerous quest to find a legendary lost treasure—the last library.

Juni lives in a world without books. The Blight killed off all the trees, and since then, paper is worth more than just about anything else. Juni’s parents were killed in an archeological dig when she was young, so now it’s just her and her Grandpa Edgar, trying to survive. When she’s not in school, Juni and her friends Doler and Quaze turn to plifting—scavenging in abandoned buildings for any scrap of paper they can find—to earn a little money. If Juni can find enough paper, she can pay for the expensive health care Grandpa needs.

So when Juni discovers a book—the first one she’s ever seen—hidden in a box in her grandpa’s closet, she’s both surprised and elated at the thought of the money she could get by selling it. Grandpa, however, insists that she read it first. Beyond the experience of opening her imagination, which exceeds her expectations, the book has hidden clues in the text that point to what could be the last library on Earth. If reading one book could change her own life so dramatically, what would access to thousands of books do?

While out plifting, Juni meets Kobyn, who’s connected to a secret organization eager to find the library and who seems to know something about how Juni’s parents actually died. The mystery deepens when Juni meets Ullred O’Donnell, the head of Novexus, a megacorporation that has replaced the government and now controls all the information—and misinformation—the public sees. With an army of robot sentry dogs by his side, Ullred warns Juni to abandon her quest—or else. Juni, Doler, and Kobyn—along with Zeno, an AI holographic guardian of the library—must liberate the information the library contains and share it with the world before Novexus claims it for their own.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Wretched Waterpark (Sinister Summer Series #1) by Kiersten White

About the Book (From Goodreads)

From New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White comes her middle grade series debut! Part Scooby Doo, part A Series of Unfortunate Events, and entirely genius! Meet the Sinister-Winterbottom twins, who solve mysteries at increasingly bizarre summer vacation destinations in the hopes of being reunited with their parents—or at the very least finally finding a good churro.

Twelve-year-old twins Theodora and Alexander and their older sister Wilhelmina Sinister-Winterbottom don’t know how they ended up with their Aunt Saffronia for an entire summer. She’s not exactly well equipped to handle children. The twins are determined to make it a good vacation, though, so when Aunt Saffronia suggests a waterpark, they hastily agree.

But Fathoms of Fun is not your typical waterpark. Instead of cabanas, guests rent mausoleums. The waterslides are gray tongues extending from horrible gargoyle faces. The few people they encounter are very, very odd. And the owner disappeared under bizarre circumstances, lost to the Cold, Unknowable Sea—the wave pool.

When Wil goes missing, rule following, cautious Alexander and competitive, brave Theo will have to work together to solve the mystery of Fathoms of Fun. But are they out of their depth?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I had a lot of fun reading this wonderfully weird, wacky, and slightly spooky middle grade mystery.

It made me nostalgic for my childhood. It's exactly the type of book I loved back then. I loved the gothic waterpark setting. The vibe of the place reminded me a tiny bit of my favorite Goosebumps story, One Day at Horrorland, which, again, made me feel so nostalgic.

I couldn't read this fast enough and was sad when I reached the end because I just wanted it to keep on going. I'll definitely be checking out the rest of the series.

FOUR STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Wretched Waterpark (Sinister Summer Series #1) by Kiersten White

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday.

This week I'm featuring Wretched Waterpark (Sinister Summer Series #1) by Kiersten White. It's a fun middle grade mystery that's perfect for this time of year.

About the Book (From Goodreads)

From New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White comes her middle grade series debut! Part Scooby Doo, part A Series of Unfortunate Events, and entirely genius! Meet the Sinister-Winterbottom twins, who solve mysteries at increasingly bizarre summer vacation destinations in the hopes of being reunited with their parents—or at the very least finally finding a good churro.

Twelve-year-old twins Theodora and Alexander and their older sister Wilhelmina Sinister-Winterbottom don’t know how they ended up with their Aunt Saffronia for an entire summer. She’s not exactly well equipped to handle children. The twins are determined to make it a good vacation, though, so when Aunt Saffronia suggests a waterpark, they hastily agree.

But Fathoms of Fun is not your typical waterpark. Instead of cabanas, guests rent mausoleums. The waterslides are gray tongues extending from horrible gargoyle faces. The few people they encounter are very, very odd. And the owner disappeared under bizarre circumstances, lost to the Cold, Unknowable Sea—the wave pool.

When Wil goes missing, rule following, cautious Alexander and competitive, brave Theo will have to work together to solve the mystery of Fathoms of Fun. But are they out of their depth?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Their aunt was decidedly Sinister.

But only because she was from their mother's side of the family. If she had been from their father's side of the family, she would have been decidedly Winterbottom.

Friday 56

"That's how you disappear!" Alexander shouted at the person running on the walkway far beneath them, angry that there weren't any lifeguards here to say it. It shouldn't be up to him to keep other people safe, too.

What have you been reading lately?

Cover Reveal: MAGIC HUNTERS: THE JOURNEY BEGINS by Brad and Jill Williamson

I’m thrilled to celebrate with @jill_williamson_author and her husband Brad on their cover reveal for MAGIC HUNTERS: THE JOURNEY BEGINS, book 1 in their new middle grade fairytale mash-up trilogy.

This cover was a compilation of two talented artists. The character sketch was done by @hannahprewettauthor, and Emilie Hendryx of @createexploreread used Hannah’s sketch in the cover design. Here is the back cover description:

 

 
✨✨✨

Hunter, the son of the huntsman who nearly killed Snow White, is tired of the shame that labels his family. Tricked into making a wish upon a magic mirror, he accidentally unleashes a curse that banishes magic from the Story Realms.


In order to right this wrong, Hunter sets out to find a wizard who might be able to help. Along the way he meets Izzy, a girl with no memory. Together, the pair embark upon an epic quest to restore the magic—and memories—that have been lost. Do Hunter and Izzy have what it takes to bring magic back to the Story Realms? Or is magic is lost forever?

✨✨✨

From now until release day on June 23, you can preorder signed paperback copies of MAGIC HUNTERS on Jill’s author website with FREE shipping. On release day (June 23), the free shipping deal ends, and the book will go on sale in the regular places along with the ebook version. For more information, to pre-order the paperback, or to add the book to your Goodreads page, visit jillwilliamson.com/magic-hunters.

Now, are you ready to see the cover? 

So cute! Right?

Review: Legend of the Storm Sneezer (The Stormwatch Diaries #1) by Kristiana Sfirlea

About the Book

Legend Seeker. Part-time Ghost Hunter. Time Traveler.

Thirteen-year-old Rose Skylar sneezed a magical storm cloud at birth, and it’s followed her around ever since. But when "Stormy" causes one too many public disasters, Rose is taken to Heartstone, an asylum for unstable magic. Its location? The heart of a haunted forest whose trees have mysteriously turned to stone.

They say the ghosts are bound to the woods … then why does Rose see them drifting outside the windows at night? And why is there a graveyard on the grounds filled with empty graves? Guided by her future selves via time traveling letters, Rose and Marek—best friend and potential figment of her imagination—must solve the mystery of the specters and the stone trees before the ghosts unleash a legendary enemy that will make their own spooks look like a couple of holey bed sheets and destroy Heartstone Asylum.

Letters from the future are piling up. Rose can’t save Heartstone herself. However, five of herselves, a magical storm cloud, and a guardian angel who might very well be imaginary? Now that’s a silver lining.

But will they find what killed the ghosts before what killed the ghosts finds them?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

What an absolute blast! This was a charming, whimsical, all-around wonderful tale! It was so unique, like nothing I've ever read before. I never knew what to expect next. It was constantly surprising me. And it was so funny! It had me literally laughing out loud so much. But in the midst of all the laughs, there was a lot of depth and heart too. I might've even got a little teary-eyed a time or two.

The friendship between Rose and Marek was the best. They were so sweet. You couldn't ask for better, or more genuine, friends. I enjoyed this book so much and am eager to see what kind of adventures they encounter next. I highly recommend this fun middle grade fantasy.

FOUR STARS

Review: Jane Austen Investigates: The Burglar's Ball by Julia Golding

About the Book

Nancy Drew. Enola Holmes. Sally Lockhart. Move over girls, it’s Jane's time!

Join young budding detective Jane Austen in her second investigation to uncover a devious diamond thief at the glitziest, most scandalous ball of the year! Inspired by Sense and Sensibility.

‘No one who had ever seen Jane Austen in her infancy would suppose her to be born to solve crimes. From her early love of sugar plums, and cleverness in hiding her expeditions into the pantry, her mother declared her far more likely to commit them. However, as Jane would counter, there was no better person to identify the culprit than the thief turned thief-catcher.’

When the headmistress invites her past favourite pupil to attend their end of term ball, Cassandra brings her younger sister, Jane, along too. Cassandra plunges into the feverish excitement of preparing for the biggest event of the year – the dresses, the dances and the boys expected from the neighbouring school.

Feeling rather excluded, sharp-witted Jane unearths the reason for the fuss – the headteacher wants to impress a rich family returned from India as the school is at risk of going bankrupt. Jane also befriends the dancing master’s assistant, a former slave, called Brandon, who is as quick to notice things as she. At the ball, a diamond necklace is stolen from a locked room and they are propelled into a race to uncover the burglar and save Brandon from gaol.

With the ever-present Austen spirit, Jane with notebook in hand, boldly overcomes the obstacles to finding the truth.

Perfect for readers aged 9-109, and for fans of Katherine Woodfine and Lucy Worsley.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a delightfully fun mystery! I loved the first book in this series, so I was ecstatic to have a new mystery to solve alongside young Jane.

This time, Jane's trying to catch a thief who stole a diamond necklace at the summer ball at her old school. The mystery was perplexing and kept me guessing. I had strong suspicions about who the culprit might be, but there were plenty of viable suspects that had me questioning my initial thoughts, plus a surprising twist or two, added to the mix.

This witty and fun mystery is sure to appeal to readers of all ages. I had such a great time reading it and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries.

I received an early copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FOUR STARS

Review: Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding

About the Book

Jane Austen turns detective in this spooky historical adventure by award-winning author Julia Golding!

It’s 1789 and a young Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. When a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming-of-age party. While there, Jane vows to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds – for she does not believe in such stories!

But this is not the only strange occurrence for the adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are shivery night-time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations.

With notebook in hand and her faithful dog Grandison by her side, will Jane overcome the continuous obstacles and find out the truth?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was just absolute pure fun! A delightfully witty read that was impossible to put down. I was hooked from the first sentence and lost all track of time while I was reading it.

We got to know a young Jane Austen and follow along as she tried to solve some perplexing mysteries involving a ghost, thieves, and arsonists.

Jane was, of course, an infinitely likable character. Clever, curious, and sharp as a whip. She kept things lively, for sure. And you know I loved Grandison, Jane's “lapdog”. I'm a sucker for dogs in books and Grandison was awesome. Deepti and Luke were great characters too. Full of so much depth, they all came to life.

This was a fantastic read that I highly recommend. And even though it's a middle grade mystery, it can be enjoyed by all ages. I really hope there are more mysteries to come for Jane to solve.

 FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring a really fun middle grade mystery, Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding.

About the Book

Jane Austen turns detective in this spooky historical adventure by award-winning author Julia Golding!

It’s 1789 and a young Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. When a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming-of-age party. While there, Jane vows to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds – for she does not believe in such stories!

But this is not the only strange occurrence for the adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are shivery night-time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations.

With notebook in hand and her faithful dog Grandison by her side, will Jane overcome the continuous obstacles and find out the truth?

Book Beginnings

1789

It had to be acknowledged that the life of a clergyman's daughter in deepest rural Hampshire was disappointingly full of duties.

Friday 56

Jane gulped. She knew she was innocent but she also realized she was the last one to have been in the library that evening, aside from the person who started the machine, of course. How long would it take for Sir Charles to find that out? And when he did, would he blame her?

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Jane Austen Investigates: The Abbey Mystery by Julia Golding releasing April 23.

About the Book

Jane Austen turns detective in this spooky historical adventure by award-winning author Julia Golding!

It’s 1789 and a young Jane Austen turns detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious happenings at Southmoor Abbey. When a carriage accident forces a change of plans, 13-year-old Jane is sent to be a companion to Lady Cromwell for a week as the household prepares to celebrate the eldest son’s coming-of-age party. While there, Jane vows to solve the mystery of the ghostly monk in the Abbey grounds – for she does not believe in such stories!

But this is not the only strange occurrence for the adventurous young Jane to investigate. There are shivery night-time investigations, an Indian girl with secret talents, a library fire, two prize horses in danger, and friends to save from false accusations.

With notebook in hand and her faithful dog Grandison by her side, will Jane overcome the continuous obstacles and find out the truth?

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor by Ally Carter

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Winterborne Home for Vengeance and Valor by Ally Carter releasing March 3.

About the Book

New York Times best-selling author Ally Carter’s middle grade debut is full of mystery, mayhem, and friendship, and it will keep you guessing until the very end. 

April didn’t mean to start the fire. She wasn’t even the one who broke the vase.

She had absolutely no intention of becoming the only person who knows that Gabriel Winterborne, the missing-and-presumed-dead billionaire, is neither missing nor dead and is actually living in the basement of Winterborne House, sharpening his swords and looking for vengeance.

Now that April knows Gabriel Winterborne is alive, it’s up to her to keep him that way. But there’s only so much a twelve-year-old girl can do, so April must turn to the other orphans for help. Together, they’ll have to unravel the riddle of a missing heir and a creepy legend, and find a secret key, before the only home they’ve ever known is lost to them forever.

Why I Need It
It's been way too long since I've read anything from Ally Carter. I loved her Gallagher Girls and Heist Society books, so I'm excited to check this one out. I saw that it was pitched as what would happen if little orphan Annie went to live with Batman. How awesome does that sound?

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: City of Ghosts by Victoria Schwab

About the Book

Ever since Cass almost drowned (okay, she did drown, but she doesn't like to think about it), she can pull back the Veil that separates the living from the dead . . . and enter the world of spirits. Her best friend is even a ghost.

So things are already pretty strange. But they're about to get much stranger.

When Cass's parents start hosting a TV show about the world's most haunted places, the family heads off to Edinburgh, Scotland. Here, graveyards, castles, and secret passageways teem with restless phantoms. And when Cass meets a girl who shares her "gift," she realizes how much she still has to learn about the Veil -- and herself.

And she'll have to learn fast. The city of ghosts is more dangerous than she ever imagined.

NYT bestselling author Victoria Schwab delivers a thrillingly spooky and action-packed tale of hauntings, history, mystery, and the bond between friends (even if that friend is a ghost . . .). 

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

City of Ghosts was a wonderful middle grade novel that had just the right amount of spookiness. A perfect read for Halloween.

It started off a little slow for me, but things really picked up and I found myself reading the last half of the book in record time.

The characters were great. Cass and Jacob were instantly likable. And so were her parents. The setting really came to life, so much so that I could actually feel myself there. Which was a little scary at times, I'm not gonna lie, lol.

I've seen a few reviews that have compared this book to Stranger Things and, yeah, I can see why. It's way different, but it does have that kind of vibe. So if you're a fan of that TV show, I think you'd really enjoy this book.

Four Stars