Lauren St John - Laura Marlin Mystery:Dead Man's Cove - Book Review

I have just recently been introduced to the books by Lauren St John. Whilst she has written many earlier acclaimed books, within "The White Giraffe" series which is set in Africa, I have never had the opportunity to read these. However, after recently reading 'Dead Man's Cove', I will definitely be exploring her other books.


Within the first few pages of this book I knew it was going to be a great read. I was soon enjoying it and knew I would continue to do so. The author has a great way of telling and expressing the narrative form, which transports you to the fantasy world that Laura Marlin finds herself adventuring within. I was instantly gripped by the beautifully scripted and crafted detail. The only criticism that I can share is linked to the length of the story - it soon seemed to come to an end. But at times it also appeared to be a little vague. I felt at times some of the ideas could have been elaborated upon, in order to give a fuller ending, with greater impact.


Laura is a great central character, who leaves the children's home and moves to Cornwall - where from hereon mysteries begin to unfold. Laura, who turns detective like one of her writing heroes - Matt Walker, uncovers and solves many of the hidden secrets.


The darker side of the story begins to show itself towards the end, it certainly makes you sit up - grabbing your full attention, as the plot thunders towards the end. The book has the feeling of a 'classic' - I think it will find many more readers in years to come. 


The next installment, entitled 'Kidnap in the Caribbean', is due to be published next year. That gives me just enough time to read all of Lauren's other books that I've missed out on. I hope they too continue to give me a reading thirst for more . . . 

Published by Orion Children's 5 August 2010 - Thanks for sending this review copy out.




Book Synopsis
When orphaned Laura Marlin moves from a children's home to live with her uncle in Cornwall, she longs for a life of excitement just like the characters in her favourite detective novels. A real life adventure is on hand as she is deposited at her uncle's spooky house . . . Why does her uncle, Calvin Redfern, forbid her to go to Dead Man's Cove? What's the truth about Tariq, the silent Indian boy who lives with the flamboyant Mukthars? Who is J? Who has left the message in a bottle for Laura to discover? Mysteries abound and who better to solve them than Laura Marlin, ace detective? Accompanied by her trusty companion, Skye, a three-legged husky, the dog she's always wanted, Laura's adventures begin.