Lyn Gardner - Rose Campion and the Christmas Mystery - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Here we have a brilliant conclusion to the Campion series by Lyn Gardner. This fantastically thrilling finale was published in October 2019 by Nosy Crow Books. I have to say that this is my personal favourite of all three books. These could really be read in any order as you can jump in and out of any of the books and everything will still run like clockwork.  

So let's raise the curtains on another season at Campions' Palace of Varieties and Wonders. Set in Victorian London, a fantasy treat awaits any reader. You will instantly be re-acquainted with brilliant characters and their vibrant and lively surroundings. Full of heart, courage, and friendship which all help the characters through this dangerous adventure.

Rose Campion and her friends have more to worry about in this adventure than who'll be filling the role of Cinderella. The narrative of this book is deathly and dark. It's full of mischief due to the arrival of the Duchess, a deadly ruler of the London criminal underworld, who has just been released from prison. She has her sights set, not only on Rose but also on a priceless emerald necklace that has just arrived in the city. Meanwhile, Campions' is playing host to the mysterious hypnotist Madame de Valentina and murder is afoot as the narrative takes a disturbing turn of events. However, which characters will be affected in this story? 

This is a Christmas mystery for young and old, as the story whips up a theatrical storm. I loved every single minute of this book as it is full of song, dance, and much laughter. It's a big show stopper with a fantastic plot. This sleuthing novel will keep you guessing until the very end of the book. The timely twists and turns deserve an encore as there are many secrets to uncover. The narrative wraps up nicely pulling together all the threads from this book and the previous book nicely, which leaves you, the reader, feeling very satisfied. This is a truly lovely series that will not be easily forgotten.  

Danny Weston - Inchtinn: Island of Shadows - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

This is the latest book by the cheeky chap, otherwise known as, Danny Weston. Inchtinn: Island of Shadows was published back in early October 2019 by an independent publisher based at the University at Central Lancashire in Preston. This is the second book that I've read by Uclan Publishing and I have been really impressed with both books. The book cover, which is illustrated by Helen Crawford-White, has been recently paraded in Mr. Ripley's book cover wars. It is also important for me to mention that there are a couple of black and white (pastel) illustrations inside the book by Miranda Harris. These really do give a lovely bleakness quality to the story which you gaze and reflect upon.

This a brilliantly written story that captures the attention of the reader as you skip and dance across the sea to the Scottish Island of Inchtinn. On arrival, a fantastic spine-tingling plot awaits the reader on the shore of this remote Island. A mystery unfolds as Noah is forced to travel with his mum, Millicent, who is a bestselling children's author. However, she's struggling for inspiration to write a new novel but then sinister things start to stir. There's no one better than Danny Weston to whip up a creepy storm that will have you hooked and running for cover. He does this slowly and pulls the threads of the characters like puppets doing a macabre dance on the cliff's edge. Some parts of the story are slightly predictable, however, he still has that talented ability to slap you around with a surprise or two.  

The book has a natural beauty and charm about it. The harsh landscape and remoteness are magnetically woven into the story - they actually feel like characters themselves. Wild birds soar and sweep above your heads as a great sense of loss, fear and tragedy sweep through your pores. Certainly, the loss of Noah's father resonated with me and pulled on the emotional element of the story. 

A true smorgasbord of events unfold and wrap you in a shawl of darkness and brooding tension. Sinister beings and the stirrings of dark shadows all start to appear on the peripheral vision. Noah has to face unimaginable horrors and conquer his fears within this story. We are treated to a climactic and adventurous ending - it's a firecracker that will soon have you plunging into the freezing deep cold waters. 

This is an edgy and spooky story that all started out with a mere spark of an idea. However, it has now fully grown into a seismic plot. It's a truly great read to lose yourself in so, don't hesitate, buy yourself a copy today. 

Robert J. Harris - Artie Conan Doyle and the Scarlet Phantom - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Here we are, the sleuths are back again with the third brilliant book in The Artie Conan Doyle Mysteries. The Scarlet Phantom is the work of Scottish writer, Robert J. Harris, and features the young amateur detectives of Artie Conan Doyle (Boy Detective) and Edward Hamilton (Stalwart Companion). The book has already been published (October) by Floris Books (a small independent children's publisher in Edinburgh).  

It's time to investigate the criminal mind with another unusual and thrilling mystery to ponder over. I really love this series; it's one of my personal favorites as it reminds me of the books I used to read when I was a young person. It has the same DNA profile as the books I read and loved at that time such as The Hardy Boy Stories which were full of vivid action and great moments. It also has great settings and characters similar to The Alfred Hitchcock and the Three Investigators books. Around every corner, there's suspense and deadly peril. These books made me an avid reader as they expanded my imagination and created a great appetite for new and exciting books. 

Wandering around the back streets of Edinburgh, August 1873, and something is afoot once again. A mystery is sweeping across the murky Scottish streets leaving the public fearing for their lives. Priceless jewels are being stolen by an invisible thief who walks through walls and disappears at will. All of which is bafflingly the local police force. However, the Scarlett Phantom is just about to pull off the biggest robbery in history. Can the greatest detective (not Sherlock Holmes) solve the puzzle before he or she gets away? Or will a strange paranormal investigator, who claims he can capture this phantom burglar, get there before them? You'll have to read the book to find out. 

In this story, we are introduced to a new female character, Peril Abernetly (Girl Scientist), to aid the detective team in finding out the answers to this fiendish plot. This character adds another interesting dimension to the story. She introduces a scientific approach to the inner-thought processes and dynamics of the sleuthing trio. In contrast, there is also Edward who is always hungry and has food about his person but is not always hungry for adventure. He especially fears danger and has to be persuaded by his best friend (Artie Doyle) to follow him in his thirst for solving inexplicable crimes.  

Like all the other books in this series, there is a fantastic plot full of imagination, which has been executed particularly well. It has twists and turns which leave many possibles alternatives to develop and explore. There are many quirky details included which provide a great reading experience. The time and gothic setting have a wide and fantastic appeal. Historically, it makes the story very interesting and atmospheric.

This is another fantastic book aimed at the younger reader. It will feed their imagination and set them off on an amazing fantasy adventure. As the story comes to a climatic and turbulent end, it will leave them feeling content. It's a book that is definitely worth tracking down. You never know, it may even inspire new avid readers to be born. So are you ready to solve the clues and follow in the footsteps of the characters? If so, then you definitely need to read this book.

Amy Ephron - The Other Side of the Wall - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

We all love a good book cover and I think this book cover has been illustrated brilliantly by Jennifer Bricking. It captures the story inside particularly well - there is a lovely use of blue and sparkling imagery to set alight the main themes. 

The Other Side of the Wall is the third thrilling installment from Amy Ephron that will be published in the US (but can also be bought in the UK) by Philomel Books on October 15, 2019. This story features the brother and sister duo (Tess and Max) undertaking another great adventure. 

You only have to open the first page to be nostalgically transported back in time as snow is falling and Christmas is on the horizon. The story is set with Tess and Max staying in London at the posh Sanborn House with their Aunt Evie. The story starts very sedately as the setting takes hold of you like a good old friend and shakes you by the hand. It's a perfect place for an adventure starting with a horse and carriage ride to Hyde Park which sets the wheels precariously in motion. Soon an air of mystery falls, like a shower of little confetti stars, as a mysterious boy named Colin turns up on the scene. 

Colin lives at the Sanborn House hotel all year round. He appears to stay on the 8th floor, but Max is sure the elevator only had 7 floors the day before. This sets the brother and sister duo with a mystery and puzzle to solve. It soon comes to light that no one in the hotel can see Colin. However, a curious glass marble that refracts light may just hold the key to the secret. 

You will be absorbed in a slightly mild and creepy tale that seems to get stranger and stranger. For example, a visit to a 1920s costume party and shadows that pass through walls. It's a very captivating story that fits in marvelously with the rest of the series. 

This is a very entertaining middle-grade read told with bucket fulls of imagination. The plot will captivate and entice you to read more. You'll find yourself moving between the present and the past which all makes for an entertaining ride for everyone. This is a good old classic family adventure that you will want to both read and own. Don't hesitate to pick up a copy and engage in a really great story.

P.G Bell (Author), Flavia Sorrentino (Illustrator) - The Great Brain Robbery (The Train to Impossible Places BK 2) - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books - Book Review

Here we are being whisked away on another fantasy adventure all aboard the Impossible Postal Express. The Great Brain Robbery is the second book by P.G Bell and will hit the bookshops this month (October, 2019) with a fanfare of smoke and whistles. It has been published by Usborne Children's Books in amazing hardback goodness. The book cover has been superbly illustrated, once again, by the talented Flavia Sorrentino. Remove the holographic dust jacket and it will reveal an illustrative treasure; a marvel of design and colour that fully captures the reader's attention. Whilst inside, the book has twelve brilliant illustrations to complement the story.

In this book, we are treated to another all-out adventure which has clearly stretched the author's imagination. The inventiveness and playfulness is a really strong feature of the story; it makes a fantastic reading experience. You will easily find your self immersed in a quirky race for time in an unpredictable plot that will have your pulse and brain buzzing with energy and excitement.

We return to the Union of Impossible Places with Postal Operative Suzy. The magic shimmers from the very first page, as we slide back into a sparkling universe that will make your dreams sing and your heart pulse with eager expectations. The town of Trolliville is in danger - cracks begin to appear as tremors shake the foundations but what exactly is afoot? The crew of the Impossible Postal Express has a mystery and a puzzle on their hands. However, Suzy, Wilmot and friends soon uncover a dastardly plan that might derail their postal duties and bring Trolliville crashing down.  

Delivering the post has never been so deadly. However, "A good Postal Operative is not only courteous and efficient but embodies the ideals of honesty, courage, and trust" (Book of Knowledge - Postal Operative Handbook). With this in mind, you'll be rampaging across the amazing landscape in seven-league boots. Flying across the sky in a fold-away hot air balloon called Bertha and visiting secret caverns. Life has never felt so impossible in this thrilling narrative both above and below Trolliville.

This is another treasured book with a fantastic story to match. It's full of great ideas, humour, adrenalin and mild emotion that will be loved by everyone. Strap yourself in for a narrative full of mayhem and madness that will have you eating the pages up in no time at all. The story has a great ending to whip up a memorable fast-paced fantasy storm that will leave you wanting so much more. This is an excellent book so buy it or borrow it but you definitely have to read it; it is a great armchair reading experience.

Jamie Smart - Flember: The Secret Book - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Get ready to visit the bookshops this October (2019) for the rip-roaring release of the first book in the world of Flember. The Secret Book is written and brilliantly illustrated by Jamie Smart and published by David Fickling Books. The fabulous illustrations make it a brilliantly visual adventure. They not only show images of the characters and the setting but also have diagrams of Dev's wacky inventions. There are also entire pages from the mysterious secret book highlighting the plot in creative detail. All of the illustrations pull the reader along a magical path that totally immerses them.

The main character is Dev, a young inventor whose creations go spectacularly wrong. In fact they often leave a cheesy taste in the reader's mouth. Here, in the little sleepy village of Eden, Dev finds his flying wings with his latest invention. However, the surreal aviation lesson leads to a heavy landing and a chain of spectacularly madcap disasters. 

The village has banned all books and the power they contain. However, one day Dev discovers THE SECRET BOOK and the magical power called FLEMBER. This leads to EVEN more chaos as Dev builds a GIANT RED ROBOT BEAR called BOJA. What could possibly go wrong? I'm sure you won't be surprised to hear that the consequences and events that ensue are both chaotic and spectacular.

The story is both fantastic and painful to read - it is very creatively written with fantastically memorable characters and settings. It will have you laughing and crying in equal measure. There really is a great community spirit at the heart of the story. It's a great family read that will fill you with wonder. The quirkiness will lead you into the mysteries of the plot and towards a climactic ending that will make you want more. This is a fantastic new series with (hopefully) more great adventures to come.  

Paul Mason (Author), Katy Riddell (Illustrator) - The International Yeti Collective - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

The International Yeti Collective is the first installment in a brand new series by Paul Mason. The book will swing its way from fantasy into reality on 17th October, 2019. It is being published by the mighty Stripes Publishing Company. The finished copy has been beautifully illustrated by Katy Riddell, daughter of the former Children's Laureate, Chris Riddell. Unfortunately, the illustrations are missing from my advanced copy, however, the book cover image is absolutely fantastic. It invites the reader into a wild adventure that is a real delight and a joy to read. 

The story instantly transports the reader to the fantastic backdrop of the Himalayas in search of the elusive Yeti. The author draws upon these mythical creatures to whip up the fantasy and get the reader galloping through the pages. He has crafted a brilliant backdrop which may have been inspired from his home (an island in New Zealand). As you follow Ella and her broadcasting explorer uncle, you will be hurtled into a thrilling action-adventure that covers many themes that are incredibly relevant and topical today. The story playfully brings attention to climate change, habitat destruction, and other ecological themes. This underlying message is cleverly woven into the fabric of the story and will resonate with many readers. 

The split narrative will cleverly show you both sides of the story as the rolling mist and the snap of twigs take you into a land of escapism.  You only have to turn the first pages before being introduced to the main character Tick and the secretive collective. Unfortunately, the lovable character and his inquisitive mind put all of the Yetis in danger. When humans arrive on the mountainside, he finds himself peering through the trees to get a closer look. Tick knows it's against Yeti law to approach humans as it threatens the existence of Yeti all over the world and the natural balance of nature they bring to the planet. However, he just can't help himself!

This is a fantastic family read full of hairy warmth, hope, friendship and putting things right within the world. You will experience an uplifting and heartfelt plot packed full of excitement and exhilarating moments. The story is easy to read and full of wit, empathy, and humour. The story is imaginative and very cleverly written. I loved the broadcasting angle of the story which brings it all neatly together and creates some fantastically surreal moments. I also loved the reference and introduction to some of the nineteen different Yeti setts as highlighted in the Encyclopedia Yetannica! This is a great book for discussion both in the classroom and at home. I certainly can't wait for the next book in the series - I'm eagerly anticipating a fantastic sequel. 

View this post on Instagram

The International Yeti Collective has been sent off to print today! Had so much fun working on this book

A post shared by Katy Riddell (@katyriddell_illustration) on Aug 9, 2019 at 9:07am PDT

Liz Hyder - Bearmouth - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Published by Pushkin Press / Hardback / 19 September 2019 / £12.99/ISBN-13: 978-1782692423

Today, I have a review for a powerful debut book by Liz Hyder. The book will be published on the 19th September 2019 by Puskin Press. It's aimed at a young adult audience from the age of thirteen upwards and has one of the more intriguing synopsis you will find this year.  The book cover will certainly inspire any reader to pick it up this autumn.

The story is both bold and brave, in my opinion. The plot is told from a young person's perspective - a character called Newt. The story is written in the language of his learning of letters and words. Some of the words need to be worked out as it's told more or less phonetically.  However, this gives the reader thinking time and makes the dialogue a little unique; it's a nice workout for the mental brain! The nature of the book is very dark and matches the character's surroundings deep down in the mine. There are some graphic scenes of death and other adult themes in this book, so it holds no punches for the reader as emotions see-saw up and down with the narrative. 

The story is very atmospheric and gripping. It's an epic journey into the unknown and has been written with great intelligence through a powerful and descriptive plot. The book and the characters question their beliefs as they fight the religious tyranny and social injustice they find down the mine. The working conditions are brutal and dangerous (the book explores the themes of child labour and Victorian-style working conditions). However, the bravery, courage, and friendships which are formed along the way, hit the reader with a beacon of light in a place of total darkness.

As you follow resourceful and clever Newt through his day-to-today adventures, the candlelight flickers on the reader with hope and justice for him and his fellow friends and workers. The story has some lovely twists and turns to uncover the truth as they conquer their fears in a claustrophobic environment.  It's a brilliant and thought-provoking piece of writing that you will not be able to put down. It will shock you, grip you and punch you in the fantasy face as Newt's perspective will pluck at every reader's hearts leaving each one feeling very emotional. What a great reading discovery full of gritty realism in a bygone world! Don't delay - pick it up and enter the world now. 

Book Synopsis: Life in Bearmouth is one of hard labour, the sunlit world above the mine a distant memory. Reward will come in the next life with the benevolence of the Mayker. New accepts everything - that is until the mysterious Devlin arrives. Suddenly, Newt starts to look at Bearmouth with a fresh perspective, questioning the system, and setting in motion a chain of events that could destroy their entire world.

In this powerful and brilliantly original debut novel, friendship creates strength, courage is hard-won and hope is the path to freedom.

Read more

Nick Ward - The Night's Realm - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

• 
  
• Are you afraid of the dark? Well, you might be if you read this book. Nick Ward (author and illustrator) will see his latest project come to life as it's published by David Fickling Books on the 5th September 2019. The book supports a fantastic cover design that will invite many readers to look and read it. With its title foil-blocked, it will certainly sparkle on the shelves just like the story inside. The book features some brilliant black and white illustrations which are a visual treat. They will certainly gravitate any young and/or reluctant reader into giving this story a try.
• 
  
• Dare to Enter...  and turn the pages. Billy has a secret. A secret he doesn't want anyone to know. Shhh! .... he is absolutely terrified of the dark. Surely not? However, things are about to get very scary and maybe a little crazy for Billy as finds himself trapped in a land where it is always dark. Unfortunately, he is the only one who can remember home. Can Billy step up, face his fears and save all the other children? It's time for him to believe in himself.
• 
  
• You have come this far reader...  This is a fantastic story to read from the very first page. Instantly transported into a world of nightmares, darkness, magic, witches and warlocks, you'll eventually arrive at the perfect setting. A parallel wobbly world, where things are not quite what they seem. There's a foreboding fortress of darkness leaking through the foggy air of unnaturalness. This story is very imaginative and creative - there are some fantastic ideas that have been conjured up. All of which help to pull on the spooky plot as you run for your dear life... and you will RUN.
• 
  
• As the main character (Billy) needs to face his fears and become the reluctant hero, he finds himself needing to overpower the magician in a strange realm. He needs to save his newfound friends before the fear is sucked right out of their living bodies. It's a fantastic reminder about what lies in the dark and facing your fears, especially when you are young. 
• 
  
• This is a brilliant read perfect for Halloween or readers who like a little scare when they are reading. Although, it is also uplifting, charming and relatable on so many levels. It's a visual treat and a charming delight with some surreal magical adventure moments that you will love. So step up, face your fears and be brave enough to accept this book recommendation from Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books.

   
   Visit Nick Wards Website: www.nickwardillustration.co.uk

Carlie Sorosiak - I, Cosmo - Blog Tour - Nosy Crow Books (8th Aug 2019)

It's an absolute pleasure to be part of the blog tour for Carlie Sorosiak's I, Cosmo which was published by the mighty Nosy Crow Books on August 1st, 2019. This is a fantastic and poignant story from the perspective of a much-loved pet, a dog called Cosmo. Below this review, Carlie has written a small post about the process of writing from this perspective. 

This is a brilliantly written story that makes you think about Cosmo's relationship with Max and his feuding family. The narrative is very thought-provoking whilst also dribbling with turkey juices and doggy humour. The more you read, the sadder the story gets, so get ready with the tissues! The story is very sensitively told and is an insightful view of modern-day family life.

The story plays with human emotions setting you on a path of human frailty and the complexities of a family unit.  It's a very relatable story, one dog's attempt to save his family, that will both delight and entertain you from the very first page. You will dance and skip through the beating narrative which will engulf you with warmth, sadness, and happiness. All of which works on so many levels. 

This is a barking and slightly different adventure where cats are not allowed.  I, Cosmo is a wagging-tail star in the making! 

Author's Guest Post. 
On writing from an animal’s perspective. 
Several times now, I’ve been asked: How difficult was it for you to write from a dog’s perspective? I think the assumption here, in large part, is that it must’ve been difficult – than placing oneself in the mind of a non-human narrator is a considerable challenge. Looking back at the writing process, I can absolutely see why people might think that; after all, Cosmo is more prone to focusing on his sense of smell (and on squirrels) than the average human. 

But I’ll admit that I’ve never truly fit in with most humans. I find a great deal of them entirely perplexing. Some social interactions baffle me; deciding where to sit in my middle school cafeteria was akin to diffusing a bomb – in stress level, at least. My comfort has always been with animals, dogs in particular. They’re great listeners. They wear their emotions in the flick of their tails, in the position of their ears. I understand them in a way that I never have with people. 

So I was quite confident when I started writing Cosmo – and that confidence continued the whole way through the process. I hope I’ve captured that essential dog-ness. And I hope that I, Cosmo is a comfort to others like me, who often prefer the company of animals.

Author Bio - Carlie Sorosiak grew up in North Carolina. She has a master’s in English from Oxford University and another in publishing from City, University of London. She is the author of two novels for young adults, If Birds Fly Back and Wild Blue Wonder. Her goals include traveling to all seven continents and fostering a wide variety of animals. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and her American dingo. 

Twitter: @carliesorosiak 
Website: carliesorosiak.com

Book Synopsis
The story of one dog's attempt to save his family, become a star, and eat a lot of bacon. Cosmo's family is falling apart. And it's up to Cosmo to keep them together. He knows exactly what to do. There's only one problem. Cosmo is a Golden Retriever. Wise, funny, and filled with warmth and heart, this is Charlotte's Web meets Little Miss Sunshine - a moving, beautiful story, with a wonderfully unique hero, from an incredible new voice in middle-grade fiction. 

Come and join in with the rest of the blog tour for more reviews, guest posts, and giveaways. See the list of stops below. 

Damaris Young - The Switching Hour - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Never stay out after the Switching Hour... never let the outside in... 

Damaris Young studied for her MA in Writing for Young People at Bath Spa University. In fact, this is where she actually wrote this novel. The Switching Hour is her debut book and has recently been released in the UK by Scholastic Books. This is a book you will certainly not miss in the shops as it has a vivid autumnal golden book cover. Both the front and back covers have been fantastically illustrated by Kelsley Buzzell and give such a brilliant feel to the story inside. To date, I've not seen many reviews for this book and so I would like to now put that right.

The story takes you on a surreal adventure following the characters, Amaya, and her lazy pet goat, Tau. The main character is a strong protagonist; very brave, young, slightly naive but instantly loveable. The story soon transports you into a world of myths and reality. It is heavily influenced by the author's childhood whilst living and growing up in Africa. This for me gives the story a different stylistic feel to most books that you will read in the UK. It makes for an intriguing plot which bends its outdoor charm on the reader. 

When the Dream Eater wakes up, the tingling sensation will disperse over the reader in a tiny gossamer of webs. The strands will weave and flutter in the wind as Badeko's song steals the dreams of the young, and spirits them away to be lost in the forest, in deep slumber, forevermore. It's a strange and bewitching narrative that feels ancient just like the setting and the forest in the book. The story is fraught with danger and outdoor adventure as nature fights back with exhilarating moments of action and drama. All of which is presented with great skill and certainly quickens the heartbeat!

This is a story of courage and bravery as Amaya saves her little baby brother (Kaleb) and the other children that have been taken by the Dream Eater. It is a brilliantly balanced book that lets the imagination feed a turbulent storm. There is just the right amount of backstory and dialogue to keep the reader thoroughly immersed and entertained throughout the unsettling sections. Conquering fears and overcoming challenges are the focus. However, that shiny piece of magic might also just give you a good nip on the back of your arms and legs. 

Book Synopsis: Amaya lives with her grandmother, her small brother Kaleb and her pet goat Tao in a land suffering a terrible drought. Every night, the doors must be locked after twilight, the Switching Hour, because the drought has awoken Badoko, a creature that snatches people away to eat their dreams. Three days later, the memory that they existed is gone from those that knew them, and those that are left are afflicted with The Sorrow Sickness - a grief which consumes a person without them knowing why. When Kaleb is taken by Badoko, Amaya must journey into the terrifying forest to find her brother before she forgets him.

Robin Scott-Elliot - The Tzar’s Curious Runaways - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Robin Scott-Elliot is a writer and sporting journalist for both television and the Sunday Times. His first children’s novel, The Tzar’s Curious Runaways, will be published by Everything with Words in October 2019. I know it's a long time to wait but it's definitely worth telling you about now. The book is supported by an amazingly inviting and attractive book cover. It really captures the story inside. 

The story is set in Russia (1725) against the backdrop of the court of Peter the Great. It's a fascinating time in history; a vastly enchanting place, a land full of stories and a great place for exploration. As you turn the first pages, you are introduced to the very well written and endearing main character, Katinka Dashkova, or Kat to her handful of friends. 

Katinka, a dazzling ballerina with a hunched back, and her friends Alexei the Giant and Nikolai the dwarf are very different. In fact, they are part of Peter the Great's Circus of Curiosities. The story starts with a deadly game of hide-and-seek as we soon learn that the Tzar is dead and the characters must flee the Winter Palace. Otherwise, they could face imprisonment or a gruesome death. This sets the fantasy ripples of terror and peril as the Tzar's Circus of Curiosities try to escape the Winter Palace. What will they do and how will they escape?

The adventure takes the reader through a web of fantasy with such a brutal narrative. Every page is filled with wonderment and anticipation that leaves you on tenterhooks. The reader is instantly and easily transported to another world. However, it's a hostile landscape filled with snow-capped icy mountains, haunting great hulking forests and deadly wolves. Armed with a supposedly magical map and courage, the story takes the reader on the ultimate journey of a lifetime. The characters have to cross the vast and deadly landscape across the Steppe and to the Ural Mountains. However, will they get there before they are hunted down and re-captured? 

This is a fantastic book that stops time as you inhale the fantasy adventure that feels like reality. It's a perilous journey featuring extremely brave children. All of whom have found themselves treated as societies outcasts. However, this journey is their bid for freedom as their lives are at stake. The characters work together with bickering and laughter which definitely amuses the reader. The characters stay true to their individual personalities whilst fighting their own personal battles. This certainly gives the story a leading edge which works in harmony with the ongoing narrative. 

This has to be one of the best books that I have read this year - hence the particularly early review. It's a poignant and breathtaking rampage of storytelling goodness. If you dare to believe then you dare to become. I believe this could become a future classic. It's a journey of heart and soul with one of the most interesting sets of individual characters that you will find in children's literature. The story was an absolute joy to read - full of nonstop action/adventure, humour, and friendships. It's a great historical insight into a place and time so different from the here and now. Pop it on your pre-order list NOW.

Lindsey Whitlock - The Collective - Book Review

This is the debut book by American author Lindsey Whitlock. The Collective will be published by Pushkin Children's Books on the 29th of August 2019. The book supports an interesting book cover but, in my opinion, this does not really reflect the story inside. Nevertheless, after reading the synopsis I was subtly intrigued about the plot. This book is not something that I would normally choose to pick up and read for pleasure, however, I'm very glad the publisher sent me a copy to review - thank you. 

The book is set in America after a civil war in which the country becomes very much divided. The narrative is evocative and set in the traditional community of Badfish Creek. It is a coming of age novel centered around a young boy (Elwyn) who longs for change and the chance to leave his a rural background behind him. When his uncle offers him the chance to leave his rural roots behind, he jumps at the opportunity as he is eager to move to Liberty to gain an education and become part of a flourishing world. 

I loved the historical snapshot from a time period so far removed from our very own. It really depicted the differences and traditions between urban and rural life at this time. For me, it captured the essence really well which trickled over me like droplets of freshwater over the tongue. It quenched the fantasy thirst whilst hurtling along the climatic journey of Elwyn - dazzled by the promise of a bright future. The book really tackles the important issues of responsibility, belonging and growing up in a world where things do not always go according to plan. 

This is a fantastically engaging and thought-provoking novel; it's very different from traditional books published in the UK. The book is emotionally charged and will easily suck you in with its charming setting and naive outlook on life. Has Elwyn been blinded by his new future as events threaten the world and the people he has left behind? The story soon becomes a great fight for survival against the powerful and the rich highlighting the true meaning of home, family, and loyalty.

This is a great teenage read; deep and meaningful that will leave a residue of feelings and emotions behind. It's a book that raises a lot of topical questions in a world of displacement. A highly recommended read if you are looking for something different and interesting.  

Susie Day - Max Kowalski Didn't Mean It - Book Review (Puffin)

As I was delving further into the 'to be read' pile, I came across the latest book by Susie Day. Max Kowalski Didn't Mean It will be published in paperback this coming September (2019). The story idea was formed after the author attended a Mental Health First Aid course where a frightening statistic was shared revealing that suicide is the number one cause of death among men aged 20-49. This led to the author writing a middle-grade book that covers mental empathy with great skill. 

The book from the first page is very compelling to read. Max Kowalski is an 11-year old boy who is always in trouble. He wants to be just like his dad: fun, loud, strong and dependable. However, with three younger siblings and a family coping with the loss of their mother the story takes you on a turbulent path that will pull on the emotional heartstrings. Overnight, everything changes when mysterious boxes and even more mysterious bundles of cash start turning up at their house.  The story takes another twist when Max's dad goes missing and Max has to 'step up' and look after his three little sisters: Ripley (a great name!) and twins Thelma and Louise. 

The magic for me in this story starts when Max takes them away to hide in a remote village in Wales. Here they learn about the legend of the golden dragon who guards a hoard of gold on the top of Snowdonia. However, is the legend real? Max wants to be a big hero, so he sets off on a quest to 'do battle'. The story highlights the naivety of the children and the idyllic brilliant setting of the Welsh mountains. The plot breaths fresh air and a dash of fantasy magic throughout it. 

The book explores all of the different forms of masculinity whilst keeping the story upbeat and very uplifting. The three sisters will make you laugh and the interaction between them in this story feels whimsical - filling the story with moments of sorrow and laughter. The characters are brilliantly written and will help young readers relate to many of the situations they are also faced with. Hopefully, this should start to help start and open up conversations about grief and not being the stereotypical family in a world that is ever changing. 

This is a book that will be loved by all. It's a fast-paced family adventure filled with drama, heart, human magic and lots of emotion. Look out for this when it is published as you will not be disappointed. 

David Solomons - My Cousin Is a Time Traveller (My Brother is a Superhero) - Intergalactic Galaxy Review (Nosy Crow)

Here at the Intergalactic Galaxy Review Board, we like to point out the books that rock our planet and invade our world. Today, we have the latest book by David Solomons, My Cousin is a Time Traveller, which is the fifth or sixth book featuring Luke and Zack's adventures. The book will be published by Nosy Crow books and will be available as soon as you read this post ... unless you are a time traveller yourself of course. 

This week, we've searched the solar system to find cosmic readers who would like to share their reading thoughts with you. I've hunted around the sofa (and the internet) to find some choice words about this book. Please find some of the best quotes sent to Mr. Ripley's Intergalactic Review Board. In the meantime, if you have your own review, then please send this to us as soon as possible to be added/included.

SuperHeroCostume.com said "all the superheroes in this book were underdressed and need some serious advice. Please remember, if you are going to be a superhero and try to save the world then you need to dress like one! Call us for outfit support and advice!"  

Time Traveller Brad said "this is the best breakfast read - it will put a smile on your toaster's face and a whistle in the kettle. The story was so buttery with characters getting out of a tricky jam. A spreadable five stars. I now just need a cup of Yorkshire Tea and a lie-down". 

"Hello, Nigel. I'm the toaster and I need an update. I laughed my circuits off and blew a fuse. The electrical voltage on this book was set to maximum, please don't touch my dials. All the readers on the planet will find this full of action depicting real-life events. I almost tripped on the flex and choked on the crumbs."  

The Book-inter-steller supplement said "this is not The Beano. Although, it is comically very good and the humour was out of this world. The narrative was not realistic enough and the author must get his facts correct about the true events of that day. He needs a good cape and an editor. Call me for hire". 

Kate Meg Wilson aged thirteen toes and twelve fingers said "a brilliant superpowered adventure set to spin cycle. The national grid did lose power in the telling and making of this book. I had to read the book by candlelight which burnt half the pages and my eyebrows. Every page was literally on fire - a reader's dream - fantasy triumph in type. Pick it up and give it a spin. Ten pages and a snack a minute recommended reading time. Although, please read responsibly. No other editor required in my eyes!"

I'm sure you'll agree that there have been some brilliant first book reviews from around the planet. This for me just sums up this book: strange, interesting and very funny. Who would have thought that underdressed superheroes would try to save the world just one kitchen appliance at a time. This leads me to one final review from someone called Servatron "I'LL BE BACK ... with the kitchen sink and some chocolate buns". Why not give this book, and the series a read, it appears to come well recommended.

Check back for more reviews...

Tim Hall - Earth Swarm - Book Review - Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

Tim Hall's first novel for David Fickling Books was a dark and edgy retelling of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest called Shadow of the Wolf. I remember the amazing hardback cover as it was certainly striking and captured my full attention. Some years on, Tim's second book is due to buzz into existence on the 4th July 2019. It is very different in subject matter and writing style. 

Earth Swarm will be the first novel featuring teenage hero Hal Strider. In this pocket rocket adventure, the main character faces the world of advanced technology. Hal Strider is desperate to be involved in his father's business which develops drones for the military. This starts the narrative swarming from the very first page and builds into an epic battle between the human race and artificial intelligence.  The story is skillfully written as KILLER DRONES ATTACK London. The scene is visually brilliant and the author has captured the moment with a sense of mayhem and chaos. This has an impact on the small cast of characters as the plot dramatically unfolds above and below the streets of London. 

The drones, controlled by artificial intelligence, are terrifying as they adapt, replicate and build their strength in numbers. The ensuing war between the military is gripping, however, the only people who can save the city are Hal, his sister Jess and a stranger called Sky. The further you follow the characters, the more the emotions come to light as they take you on a thought-provoking, adrenalin-fueled ride.

The story is very cool and should engage young and old readers alike. It is very on trend through the use of drones and advanced machines. The story has a fast-paced narrative giving it a cinematic quality which stretches the pixelation of the fantasy mind. The book has many explosive and turbulent events that ramp up the tension in the face of a remorseless foe. 

THE MACHINES ARE COMING . . .  Life will never be the same again. This is a battle with mind-blowing destruction where a great many lives are lost. However, the story is fantastically written, well-developed and well thought out. We learn about the truth and the scary lengths people will go to in the name of furthering artificial intelligence. So, strap yourself in for a roller-coaster Sci-Fi adventure with some timely twists and turns that will make your head spin. Could this be a vision of the near future? ...