Barbara Henderson - The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots - BOOK REVIEW - Blog Tour

Welcome to our book review for the third stop on The Boy, Witch & The Queen of Scots by Barbara Henderson's blog tour. Please say Hello at all the other stops (you can check out the list of stops below). We hope you enjoy this review and that it encourages you to read this wonderful book. 

Barbara Henderson's "The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots" is a captivating journey through Scottish history and is published by Scottish independent Publisher Luath Press Ltd (11 April 2024). It's a story of espionage with hints of witchcraft and religion. The plot is full of both danger and peril as it takes a journey through the darker side of life with The Queen of Scots. 

The reader dives and soars into the world of 12-year-old Alexander Buchan as he navigates treachery, terror, and intrigue at the court of Mary, Queen of Scots. The author weaves a tale of moral dilemmas and bravery as Alexander faces the challenges of outwitting a murderous messenger and standing against his own treacherous Earl. With themes of friendship, loyalty, and majestic birds of prey we are faced with the impending turmoil of Reformation Scotland. This book is a must-read for young readers, armchair adventurers, and history enthusiasts alike. 

The author's storytelling talents shine in this engaging and thrilling adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their Arthur Seats until the very end. A true gem in children's literature, "The Boy, the Witch & The Queen of Scots" is a triumph that brings history to life in a way that both educates and entertains. It was such a joy to read and an absolute treat to go back in time and relive this historical Scottish event with all the great characters in a gripping immersive plot. 

www.barbarahenderson.co.uk/

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Onjali Q. Raúf - The Letter with the Golden Stamp - Children's Book Pick - April 2024

Published by Orion Children's Books (11 April 2024) - ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1510108929 - Paperback - Age: 9+ 

 'I can't remember how old I was when I first started collecting stamps. But I've got a whole shoebox full of them now.

Mam used to help me collect them ... Before she got so ill that she lost her job, her friends...everything.

Now it's my job to take care of her and protect her - and my little brother and sister too. But to do that, I have to make Mam a Secret. A secret no-one can ever find out about. Not even my best friends at school, or Mo, our postman. 

Or the stranger living in the house across the street. The one no-one has seen, but who I know is spying on us. 

The one I think might be Them...'

Deep in the heart of Swansea, Wales, lives a small girl with some big secrets to keep. Secrets that make her one of the best actresses on the planet - because no-one would ever think that, away from school, Audrey is the sole carer for her increasingly sick mam and her two younger siblings ... or a seasoned thief.

With her worlds threatened by the arrival of a mysterious, invisible neighbour, behind whose closed curtains and shut front door may lie a spy, Audrey must take matters into her own hands to save her family.

Inspired by her beloved collection of stamps, her friendly neighbourhood postman (and fellow stamp collector), and her two best friends, off Audrey must go: on an adventure that will lead her to places - and hearts - she never knew existed.

Celebrating the hidden army of Young Carers daily keeping their loved ones alive behind closed doors, and the everyday s/heroes that surround them, The Letter with the Golden Stamp delves into the fears and hopes of Young Carers everywhere, and the invisible sources of kindness knocking on all our doors.

Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery - Book Review Explore - Mr Ripley’s Enchanted Books

**Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery - Published by O'Brien Press Ltd (1 April 2024)**

Chapter 1: A New Beginning at Sycamore Hill

The grand gates of Sycamore Hill Boarding School stood tall and welcoming as Clare nervously stepped onto the cobblestone path leading to her new home. The crisp Donegal air filled her lungs as she took in the sight of the ancient building surrounded by lush greenery and whispered secrets.

Chapter 2: The Mysterious Tower Window

As Clare settled into her dormitory with her roommates Rose and Molly, a chill ran down her spine when she noticed an old tower looming in the distance. That night, as the moon cast an eerie glow over the school, the girls saw a pale face at the tower window and heard faint cries carried by the wind.

Chapter 3: Whispers of the Past

Rumours of a ghost haunting Sycamore Hill swept through the corridors like wildfire. Clare and her friends couldn't ignore the whispers of a tragic incident from years past - the mysterious death of a pupil whose spirit was said to linger within the school's walls.

Chapter 4: The Haunting of Sycamore Hill

Determined to uncover the truth behind the ghostly sightings, Clare, Rose, and Molly delved into the school's history, unearthing hidden secrets and forgotten memories. But the more they searched, the more they realised that some mysteries were best left undisturbed.

Chapter 5: Unraveling the Enigma

As they pieced together clues and followed cryptic clues, the girls found themselves drawn into a web of intrigue that led them to the heart of the tower. There, they uncovered a truth more chilling than they could have ever imagined - one that connected the past to the present in ways they never thought possible.

Chapter 6: Facing the Unknown

In a race against time, Clare and her friends must confront the ghostly presence that haunts Sycamore Hill before it's too late. With courage and friendship as their guide, they journey into the depths of the tower to confront the secrets that lie within.

Epilogue: A Timeless Friendship

As the sun rose over Sycamore Hill, casting a golden light over the school grounds, Clare, Rose, and Molly stood united, their bond forged through shared adventures and the mysteries they had unravelled. Though the ghost of the tower had faded into memory, their friendship remained as strong as ever, a testament to the enduring magic of Sycamore Hill.

**Natasha Mac a'Bháird - The Tower Ghost: A Sycamore Hill Mystery** is a tale of friendship, courage, and the enduring power of curiosity in the face of the unknown. Join Clare and her friends on a spooky journey through time and mystery as they uncover the secrets of Sycamore Hill and the ghost that dwells within its walls.

Can they solve the mystery before a killer strikes again?

Mr Ripley's Enchanted Book - Tamsin Mori - Guardians of the Source: Gargoyles Book 1 - Book Review

Hello everybody. I'm delighted to be able to introduce the first book review of the year: "Tamsin Mori and the Guardians of the Source: Gargoyles". This is the first installment of a promising trilogy that delivers an enthralling adventure. It is scheduled to be released in April 2024 by UCLan Publishing with a brilliantly vibrant cover illustration by the talented David Dean. 

From the very first page, this captivating fantasy world springs to life by whisking readers away on a dream-like journey filled with magic, mystery, and excitement. The story kicks off with an irresistible narrative that is set in a decaying old mansion hiding a secret past. As Callen's family moves into his father's enigmatic childhood home, they are greeted by a sprawling, boarded-up mansion adorned with gargoyles, overgrown gardens, and the resurgence of long-forgotten magic. Magic, folklore, mythical creatures, and the wonder of animated gargoyles soon unfold.

Mori's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this enchanting tale as she skillfully weaves a world that is both familiar and extraordinary. The characters are endearing, effortlessly drawing readers into their world. The dilapidated mansion serves as a richly atmospheric backdrop, evoking a blend of nostalgia and mystery. When a disgruntled gargoyle awakens in Callen's presence, he must befriend Zariel and earn her trust before a looming dark threat takes hold. Only a Gargoyle Guardian and true friendship can fend off this encroaching peril.

The concept of living gargoyles adds an extra layer of excitement and mystique to the narrative, making it a real page-turner for young readers. The narrative is as enchanting as the magical elements woven throughout the story, ensuring a delightful and sometimes spooky read for both children and adults. 

"Guardians of the Source: Gargoyles" is a must-read for anyone who adores tales of magic, friendship, and adventure. Tamsin Mori has crafted a world that will capture the hearts and ignite the imaginations of all who delve into its pages. This book is a true gem that deserves a spot on every bookshelf, and I eagerly anticipate more from this talented author with the next chapter in this trilogy. BUY HERE!