Children’s / Teenage fiction: Crime and mystery fiction

Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. Also available in audiobook! In book five, a sinister-looking man gets George in trouble with the police. The Secret Seven are outraged. Spying on him, the gang are certain he''s bad news, but what exactly is he up to?They need to investigate, and solve the mystery, once and for allSolve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1953. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the express written pe

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Book SynopsisA super sleuth like Kalle Blomkvist is always looking for the next case to crack. So when a mysterious stranger arrives in town he finds the perfect excuse to start an investigation, one that will draw him and his friends into a thrilling case of theft and deception.

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Book SynopsisThe fourth globe-trotting installment in the exciting SECRET AGENTS JACK AND MAX STALWART series, by beloved children's author Elizabeth Singer Hunt (SECRET AGENT JACK STALWART). Now Jack teams up with his older brother Max to solve a thrilling California puzzle, using their special training as Global Protection Force agents.In the foothills of California's Sierra Nevada Mountains, an unbelievable discovery is made: $10 million in rare coins dating back to the California Gold Rush! Secret Agents Jack and Max Stalwart are sent to protect the treasure. But almost as soon as they arrive, it vanishes into thin air. Little do they know that the culprit is someone from Jack's past. Unfortunately for the brothers, the criminal isn't only after the loot. He wants revenge.

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Book SynopsisDot, her best friend Beans and her dog McClusky all love sniffing out a good mystery and together they will solve the case and save the day . . .It's the last week of school term and the children are looking forward to the School summer fair. Dotty and best pal Beans will be looking after pet's corner, starring McClusky and his two canine pals: Geoffrey and the little sausage dog puppy, Chipolata. But just days before the fair disaster strikes Chipolata has gone missing.Dotty and Beans get on the case. Can they solve the mystery of the missing puppy?Trade ReviewPraise for Dotty Detective – The Lost Puppy “These would be great for children who are starting to gain more independence in their reading as the text is really clear and simple” ReadingZone “I’ve enjoyed Dotty’s latest mystery, The Lost Puppy, just as much as her earlier adventures” ReadingZone Praise for previous Dotty titles: ‘It's funny, it's mysterious and you will be puzzled for a long time.’ – Aarav Mehta, age 7 ‘This book was amazing and I really enjoyed it.’ – Cassandra Butler, age 6 ‘I liked how Dot solved the mystery.’ – Ruby Laverty, age 6

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Book SynopsisLucy Bussell is the last person Jennifer expects any sympathy from, but she's also the last person she has left. FINDING JENNIFER JONES is the powerful sequel to the highly acclaimed, Carnegie Medal nominated LOOKING FOR JJ.Trade ReviewA powerful story and it challenges the reader to consider what they think about punishment and rehabilitation. How much do any of us really believe in forgiveness? -- Martin Chilton * The Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisFaith Erin Hicks is a writer and artist who lives in Vancouver, Canada. Her published works include Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy, Friends with Boys, One Year At Ellsmere, The Adventures of Superhero Girl, The Last of Us: American Dreams (with Neil Druckmann), The Nameless City trilogy, Comics Will Break Your Heart, Nothing Can Possibly Go Wrong (with Prudence Shen) and the New York Times bestselling Pumpkinheads (with Rainbow Rowell).Trade ReviewPanels are broken out to capitalize on specific moments, creating a variety of impactful emotional beats: sardonic retorts, profound loneliness, smug satisfaction, and doe-eyed vulnerability. * Publisher's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisAfter a tumultuous term in Paris, Libby and Connie are looking forward to a quiet holiday at Connie's family home. But before long they find themselves caught up in another mystery, this time set against the dramatic backdrop of the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh.

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Book Synopsis'A rollicking, salty, breath of fresh air.' Hilary McKay'Absolutely adored it!' Emma CarrollBy the celebrated author of The Pear Affair and The Secret Starling - Patch finds adventure on every deck of the 'floating palace' she accidentally stows away on.Liverpool, 1910When Patch runs up the gangway of steamship, RMS Glorious, she isn't planning to hang around. But if she leaves her hiding place the constable might catch her: sitting tight is worth the risk. Too late, she realises the ship is setting sail! Patch has become an accidental stowaway.Luckily, Patch's unconventional past has made her pretty fearless when it comes to fending for herself, and besides there are friends in high and low places to be made onboard.But hiding away becomes less and less easy: her new friends urgently need her help and there's a mystery that needs solving, all before they reach New York . . .With gor

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Book SynopsisGrowing up in Hackney with his loving but troubled single mum, fifteen-year-old Donny's life has been shaped by poverty, crime and casual violence, including grooming by a local gang. When his mum is jailed for drugs offences, Donny is fostered outside London to the Hertfordshire countryside. Life in the rural Home Counties is a bit like landing on another planet but doing work experience on the Hertford Union Canal, Donny feels like he's finally found his purpose. When Donny's posh new friend Zoe is offered a dubious modelling audition in London, the pair decide to 'borrow' a canal barge and navigate the 29 locks down to Kings Cross. As they start out on their journey the future looks as unpromising as Zoe's fake audition. But as each lock is navigated and conquered, their adventures take on a new dimension, and life will never be the same again.Trade Review'It crackles off the page!' (ALEX WHEATLE); 'Urgent, gripping, relevant and important: I loved 29 Locks' (Anthony McGowan, winner, Carnegie Award 2020); 'Raw, unique and often-tender, this novel is an anthem for the ordinary spirit that burns so fiercely inside each of us. A must-read for all young adults' (Aoife Fitzpatrick, Winner of Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize'); 'An essential read for the many young people today who can relate to Donny, showing them that amidst all the pain and inequalities of the world, justice can still be served and a future can be built from learning and kindness' (Ms Florence Bauhofer, PLS EAL Department ); 'It's a was a perfect book for people my age. My favourite character is Donny because he was so resilient even though he had a difficult life. He inspires me to always keep going even when things are tough. I also really liked that the novel was about family and friendship because both my family and my friends are very important to me' (Othman, age 15, Prendergast Ladywell School); 'The characters on these pages are real. If you have spent time around young people, you have seen how these relationships form and Nicola Garrard captures this in a way that feels truly natural and authentic'); (Casey Bailey, Birmingham Poet Laureate); 'The author really captured the life of a modern day teen and the struggles that life can present. I believe many young adults will enjoy and relate to this book. Excellent work! I finished the book looking at things differently' (Reader in Brinsford Prison and Young Offenders Institution for men); 'An incredible debut - smart and funny, poignant yet uplifting. Donny is an unforgettable character who navigates life with humour and compassion. From the estates of north London to the leafy canals of Hertfordshire (via Peckham), 29 Locks is totally immersive and unlike anything I've read before' (Juliet West, author of The Faithful ); 'Absolutely eye-opening about poverty in London. Great book for older children and young adults' (The Reading Pioneers, Northampton International Academy);

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Book SynopsisJoin Kat Wolfe and her best friend Harper Lamb on the winter holiday of a lifetime in Kat Wolfe on Thin Ice – full of mystery, intrigue, snow and huskies, by bestselling author Lauren St John!Kat and Harper can’t wait to join their parents on a winter vacation in a mountain cabin in the US. But a series of misadventures result in them being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alone. When Kat discovers that an argument she witnessed in New York City holds the key to a major crime, she's certain that it’s only a matter of time until the culprits come looking for her. With a snow storm moving in and no way out, all that stands between the girls and disaster are a team of eight huskies and one impossible raccoon.Trade ReviewFirst-class fun! -- Hilary McKay on Kat Wolfe Takes The CaseFull of adventure, excitement, heart and wit… Kat Wolfe Investigates is a story to delight in -- Katherine Rundell on Kat Wolfe InvestigatesWarm, intriguing characterisation with just the right amount of peril -- Imogen Russell Williams on Kat Wolfe Investigates * Guardian *Everything you want from a Lauren St John book: timeless storytelling with a contemporary edge, thrilling mystery, characterful animals and tenacious children yearning to make their mark on the world. * Editor's Choice, The Bookseller, on Kat Wolfe Investigates *Just perfect storytelling. -- Gill Lewis, on Kat Wolfe Takes the CaseLauren St John knows just how to create the perfect children’s adventure stories... another enthralling adventure... this is exactly the kind of book to encourage children’s interest in the environment and their world as the pages keep turning. Thoroughly recommended. -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids, Children's Book of the Month, on Kat Wolfe Takes the Case *Kat Wolfe Investigates is the kind of book I’d have devoured as a child - lucky, lucky kids having this to read now. -- Abi ElphinstoneAll you want from a good mystery - a compelling storyline, a determined lead character, heroes and villains, some intriguing animals for a refreshing change... all excellently interwoven * Parents in Touch, on Kat Wolfe Takes the Case *Hurrah for a new series from Lauren St John! It’s literary Katnip for the summer holidays — especially for dedicated pet fanciers... St John writes with apparent ease, but refuses to compromise on language while mixing modern life with old-fashioned Blyton-style follow-the-clues mystery. It’s an excellent combo. If this first invigorating book is anything to go by, St John had better start writing some follow-ups. -- Alex O'Connell * Saturday Times, Children's Book of the Week, on Kat Wolfe Investigates *A story with a great sense of adventure, transporting you to that place of excitement when you can’t wait to find out what happens next! * The Book Activist, Book of the Month, on Kat Wolfe Takes the Case *A page turner, in which the reader feels real tension at the perils, curiosity at the puzzles and pleasure at the cost moments... it is all sorts of dreams come true -- Nicolette Jones, Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week, on Kat Wolfe on Thin Ice

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Book SynopsisThe fourth story in this big-hearted series takes on the most important case ever investigated in Detective Gordon’s forest—where is Buffy’s mother? Gordon faces his old nemesis, the fox, in an investigation that leads to the edges of the forest.Trade Review"A gentle, mothercentric mystery that couldn’t be less threatening and a fine addition to the series." -- Kirkus Reviews (US)"gentle adventures, droll humor and delicious cakes at every turn. -- Starred Review, Shelf Awareness (US)"This one is a gentle little gem made all the more so by Gitte Spee’s whimsical illustrations." -- Red Reading Hub

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Levelled for guided and independent reading, each book includes ideas to support reading. Teaching and assessment support and eBooks are also available.Fatima thinks the stories about the weird and wonderful Mysterious Museum are all nonsense exhibits don't come to life! But then her best friend Florence disappears inside the museum and Fatima must follow the riddles to find her, even if it means risking her own life Sapphire/Band 16 books offer longer reads to develop children''s sustained engagement with texts and are more complex syntactically.Text type: An adventure storyIdeas for reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.Aisha Bushby was born in Bahrain and has lived in Kuwait, England and Canada. Now she mostly lives in the worlds of her childre

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.Christopher Brown loves drawing. When he enters the local art competition he doesn't realise that his photo research will lead him to becoming a detective and solving the village crimes!Emerald/Band 15 books provide a widening range of genres including science fiction and biography, prompting more ways to respond to texts.Ideas for reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisJump into a thrilling new series about fairy-tale heroines, ninja moves and epic adventures in this debut book perfect for children aged 5+CAN THEY SCARE OFF ALL THE BADDIES?Nothing very exciting EVER happens in the town of Hobbleton. Then Red, Snow and Goldie are trained up as fairytale ninjas, and find that anything is possibleWhen Madame Hart is accused of taking Prince Inigo, the fairytale ninjas are sure that she isn't behind the kidnapping. Can they use their new-found skills to catch the real villain? Or will their ballet teacher stay banished forever?

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“This genre-blending contemporary thriller offers a searing indictment of men who prey on women while the book’s fantasy elements offer a form of revenge and resolution… Potent, atmospheric, and wholly satisfying.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A backwoods murder ballad of a book that draws from the old songs and legends that underpin so many areas of rural America. [The River Has Teeth] is well worth a listen.” — NPR "Soft and seething, with an undercurrent of longing and rage, THE RIVER HAS TEETH is the perfect story for anyone who is tired of feeling helpless. This book has teeth, too." — Hannah Whitten, New York Times bestselling author of For the Wolf "Waters weaves a spell on the page, seeped with dark and murky magic, both beautiful and terrifying, just as her girls are beautiful and terrifying. Set loose upon the Bend, Natasha and Della are two forces crashing into one another with a strength that makes their world tremble." — Emma Berquist, author of Missing, Presumed Dead "Packed with monstrous magic and a wicked bite, The River Has Teeth is the perfect read for fans of Beware the Wild and Wilder Girls. Fierce and flawless." — Kat Ellis, author of Harrow Lake “Full of fierce women and wild magic, The River Has Teeth is a captivating story of love, grief, and the power of anger. From its eerie opening pages to its gripping finale, it kept me enthralled.” — Kate Alice Marshall, author of Rules for Vanishing “The River Has Teeth is one of those books I could not put down—even when I knew I should. The lush, haunting story gave me the most gorgeous nightmares I’ve ever had.” — Kylie Schachte, author of You're Next “With its witches, monsters, and missing girls, The River Has Teeth is a hypnotic, suspenseful read.” — Wendy Heard, author of She’s Too Pretty to Burn “This horror-tinged tale from Waters (Ghost Wood Song) spotlights issues of racial and socioeconomic injustice…. [A] lushly written story.” — Publishers Weekly “A cathartic portrait of two girls’ anger toward a world whose cruelty and injustice forced them to fight back. The River Has Teeth delivers ferociously good thrills.” — BookPage “Waters’ southern gothic thriller cleverly uses magic as a metaphor for the ways women resist the harm that men do.” — Booklist Praise for GHOST WOOD SONG: “What a gorgeous, creepy gem of a book, brimming with magic, mystery, music, and so much love that you’ll ache as if these characters were your actual friends. Ghost Wood Song weaves a captivating spell you won’t want to break.” — Claire Legrand, New York Times bestselling author of Furyborn and Sawkill Girls "Ghost Wood Song sings a high and lonesome love song to family, to place, to music, and to love itself. It will make your heart dance." — Jeff Zentner, Morris Award winning author of The Serpent King and Goodbye Days "These haunted pages are full to bursting with intricate family dynamics, a nuanced queer romance, and a crescendo of an ending readers won’t see coming. With notes of southern gothic and mystery, Ghost Wood Song will strike a chord with fans of The Raven Boys and Beautiful Creatures." — Rosiee Thor, author of Tarnished Are the Stars "Strikes the perfect balance of atmospheric chills, dark familial secrets, and a yearning for the warm comforts of home. I could hear the cicadas' call and feel the smothering humidity, even as I shivered!" — Erin A. Craig, New York Times bestselling author, House of Salt and Sorrows "Ghost Wood Song is a dusky, haunting daydream of a debut that hits all the right notes." — Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart “A gorgeously written debut filled with ghosts, a queer love triangle, a murder mystery, & a healthy dose of bluegrass. When you finish, you’ll want to turn back to page one and start all over again.” — Amanda Lovelace, author of The Princess Saves Herself in this One “Waters' debut features a bisexual lead with both male and female love interests, an atmospheric southern gothic setting, and, for the musically inclined, lots of folk and bluegrass references. For teens with a penchant for eerie ghost stories, this lyrical tale will hit the spot.” — Booklist “Debut author Waters weaves an intense and spectral atmosphere with vivid prose…Haunting and alluring.” — Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisFletcher Moon is a schoolboy and private investigator. Since graduating online, he has solved all sorts of minor mysteries at school and at home. It was only a matter of time before things got serious.Trade ReviewPraise for Half Moon Investigations: 'Repartee, irreverence, a zippy pace and suspense will leave the readers wanting more' – Irish Times Praise for Artemis Fowl: 'Fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek, with laugh-out-loud jokes. Smart and page-turning' – Sunday Times'Fast, funny and very exciting' – Daily Mail

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Book SynopsisAFTER THE FIRST DEATH is a brilliantly tense hostage drama, by Robert Cormier, the acclaimed author of THE CHOCOLATE WAR. It is one of The Originals from Penguin - iconic, outspoken, first. On the outskirts of a small American town, a bus-load of young children is being held hostage. The hijackers are a cold and ruthless group, opposed to the secret government agency Inner Delta. At the centre of the battle are three teenagers. Miro is the terrorist with no past and no emotions. Kate is the bus driver, caught up in the nightmare, and Ben is the General''s son who must act as a go-between.The Originals are the pioneers of fiction for young adults. From political awakening, war and unrequited love to addiction, teenage pregnancy and nuclear holocaust, The Originals confront big issues and articulate difficult truths. The collection includes: The Outsiders - S.E. Hinton, I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith, Postcards from No Man''s Land - Aidan Chamb

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Book Synopsis**The first book in the new fantasy series from the author of Half Bad**This is the perfect story for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Laini Taylor. -------------A princess, a traitor, a soldier, a hunter and a thief.Five teenagers with the fate of the world in their hands.Five nations destined for conflict.In Brigant, Princess Catherine prepares for a political marriage arranged by her brutal and ambitious father, while her true love, Ambrose, faces the executioner''s block.In Calidor, downtrodden servant March seeks revenge on the prince who betrayed his people. In Pitoria, feckless Edyon steals cheap baubles for cheaper thrills as he drifts from town to town.And in the barren northern territories, thirteen-year-old Tash is running for her life as she plays bait for the gruff demon hunter Gravell.As alliances shift and shatter, and old ceTrade ReviewAn excellent read * The Bookbag *Catherine is a fully fleshed heroine whose storyline advocates self-empowerment and independent thought * Publishers Weekly *As the Half Bad trilogy proved, Green is adept at writing a propulsive narrative * Financial Times *A rewarding read worth smoking out * The Times *This has elevated Sally Green's work to the next level... this series is going to be awesome * Clumsiness is a Curse *A gripping piece of fantasy * Parabatai Reviews *Bloody, fast paced and adventurous * She Loves to Read *It snares your attention, and keeps it * Faerie on the Shelf *Sally Green has fully captured me with this new series * This Booky Place *

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Book SynopsisA stunning coming-of-age tale from poet and writer Savannah Brown.Sydney''s dad is the only psychiatrist for miles around in their small Ohio town.He is also unexpectedly dead.Sydney believes the crash was anything but an accident. And when the threatening texts begin, and June Copeland - homecoming queen and golden child - appears at his funeral out of nowhere, she''s sure of it.But through Sydney''s newfound relationship with June, she''s given a glimpse of a life without the darkness of an unresolved grief and the chance, just maybe, of a fresh start.Until it''s clear that the secrets won''t go away, and the truth might bring everything crashing down...Imperfect friendships, the shadow of grief and the sweet pain of romance - this is a poetic, thrilling ode to being human.

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Book SynopsisThe new gripping YA thriller from online sensation Savannah Brown, author of The Truth About Keeping Secrets, Graffiti, and Sweetdark. Perfect for fans of Karen McManus, Holly Jackson''s A Good Girl''s Guide to Murder and E. Lockhart''s We Were Liars.When fledgling singer Roxy Raines vanishes from the tiny resort of Sandown, the island''s locals refuse to talk about it to any outsiders, dismissing Roxy as a teenage runaway. Thirty years later, seventeen-year-old Mona Perry is convinced there''s something more sinister at play. Armed with a suitcase and a microphone - to record her findings for her podcast''s listeners - the troubled teen is on a deadline: one hot summer is all she has to get to the bottom of Roxy''s story. But as Mona gets drawn into the strange goings on of this isolated community, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems. Least of all Mona''s own past, and the disappearance of someone elTrade ReviewA beautifully written mystery with a host of fascinating characters, Savannah Brown's new book explores loss - on both the people and the places left behind - and comments on our fascination with true crime in a fresh and thought-provoking way. * Vincent Ralph, author of Are You Watching? *A propulsive mystery driven by beautifully raw narration, The Things We Don't See is an honest look at the cost of moving on. Brown's prose reads like a live wire. * Rory Power, author of Wilder Girls *Fast- paced, character-driven and completely addictive. The perfect YA mystery. * Dubray Books *

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Book SynopsisTHE CHILLING CONCLUSION TO #1 BESTSELLING SERIES THE MAGPIE SOCIETYA DEADLY DISAPPEARANCEA RACE AGAINST TIMEAnd, at the eleventh hour . . .A SHOCKING REVELATIONAudrey and Ivy, determined to bring their fellow student Lola Radcliffe''s killer to justice, find themselves in the middle of another mystery when a friend disappears in suspicious circumstances.Their only clue is a mysterious card left by the enigmatic Magpie Society. With time running out and the police baffled, Audrey and Ivy must delve deeper than ever into the dark secrets that their school is hiding.But someone is playing a deadly game. And to beat them, Audrey and Ivy have to start rewriting the rules...Praise for One for Sorrow:''The perfect read for teens'' - Glamour UK''A nail-biting page turner written with cinematic sparkle, depth, and a heap of charm.'' - Jennifer Niven, #1 bestselling author of All the Bright Places

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Book SynopsisNOW A MAJOR NETFLIX SERIES. This stunning collector''s edition of the internationally bestselling YA smash hit, ONE OF US IS LYING, contains a thrilling BONUS chapter!Book One of the Bayview Trilogy.Five students go to detention. Only four leave alive.Yale hopeful Bronwyn has never publicly broken a rule.Sports star Cooper only knows what he''s doing in the baseball diamond.Bad boy Nate is one misstep away from a life of crime.Prom queen Addy is holding together the cracks in her perfect life.And outsider Simon, creator of the notorious gossip app at Bayview High, won''t ever talk about any of them again.He dies 24 hours before he could post their deepest secrets online. Investigators conclude it''s no accident. All of them are suspects.Everyone has secrets, right?What really matters is how far you''ll go to protect them.''Tightly plotted and

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Book SynopsisA New York Times Bestseller  'Imaginative and entertaining … Readers will breathlessly turn the pages as they wonder: Can the duo solve the mysteries of The Nine in time to save it from those who wish it—and them—ill?' —Bookpage'The department store offers a rich setting for adventure …. Mystery in a wondrous environment melds with family history and a tinge of magic in this tale for detail-oriented young readers.' —Shelf AwarenessIn this thrilling mystery from an award-winning author, Zander is determined to do whatever it takes to save his grandmother’s nineteen-story out-of-this-world department store—perfect for fans of The Swifts and The Mysterious Benedict Society.   Zander Olinga’s grandmother is the owner of the fabled Number Nine Plaza, the spectacular nineteen-story skyscraper. The Nine, as it&

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Book Synopsis In this New York Times bestselling sequel to Kerri Maniscalco''s haunting #1 debut Stalking Jack the Ripper, bizarre murders are discovered in the castle of Prince Vlad the Impaler, otherwise known as Dracula. Could it be a copycat killer . . . or has the depraved prince been brought back to life? Following the grief and horror of her discovery of Jack the Ripper''s true identity, Audrey Rose Wadsworth has no choice but to flee London and its memories. Together with the arrogant yet charming Thomas Cresswell, she journeys to the dark heart of Romania, home to one of Europe''s best schools of forensic medicine . . . and to another notorious killer, Vlad the Impaler, whose thirst for blood became legend. But her life''s dream is soon tainted by blood-soaked discoveries in the halls of the school''s forbidding castle, and Audrey Rose is compelled to investigate the strangely familiar murders. What she finds brings all her terrifying fears to life once again.

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Book SynopsisWhen Mary Godwin and Lady Ada Byron first meet, they don't exactly hit it off. But with crime on the rise, the unlikely pair form a detective agency to hunt down clever criminals on the streets of London.Their first case involves a stolen necklace, a false confession, and lots of suspicious suspects but these are no match for Ada and Mary.Filled with daring balloon chases, vile villains and two unforgettable heroines, TheCase of the Missing Moonstone is the first in a thrilling new series; perfect for all aspiring sleuths.Trade ReviewAn enjoyable plot borrowed from Wilkie Collins - not to mention resourceful heroines and fun writing * The Wall Street Journal *The telling is sprightly and vaguely reminiscent of The Wolves of Willoughby Chase * Financial Times *Skilled illustrations and comical narration and dialogue will charm readers thoroughly * Publisher's Weekly *Smart and clever girls will enjoy this refreshing mystery and the start to what’s sure to be an intriguing series * Kids Reads *Equal parts laughs and adventure, this lively mystery will keep you guessing till the end! * Discovery Girls *

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Book SynopsisI''m falling - falling down steep, narrow stairs - if I hit the bottom asleep, I know I''ll never wake. Every night Kirsty wakes up screaming. Every night she has the same terrible nightmare - of falling downstairs. But does she fall? Or is she pushed? Then Kirsty discovers that her grandma died falling downstairs and she begins to wonder: is the dream hinting at a dark secret in her family? She has to know the truth. But tracking a murderer is a dangerous game, and as she delves into the past, Kirsty uncovers a secret more terrible than anything she can imagine.A terrifying read from one of today''s master storytellers. WINNER OF THE SHEFFIELD CHILDREN''S BOOK AWARD FOR BEST SHORTER NOVEL''Cleverly put together - funny as well as gripping'' The Sunday TimesTrade ReviewCarefully and cleverly put together. Psychologically perceptive and not nasty . . . Funny as well as gripping . . . Swindell's tight hold on suspense makes this a particularly good choice for reluctant readers * The Sunday Times *Robert Swindells writes the kind of books that are so scary, you're afraid to turn the page * Daily Telegraph *

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Book Synopsis.'Port Sentinel may be a beautiful seaside tourist trap, but in the short time Jess Tennant has lived there, it has seen its fair share of tragedy. Tragedy that somehow Jess keeps getting caught up in.A schoolgirl from the town goes missing, leaving her diary behind and a lot of unanswered questions.Trade ReviewUsing part romance, part mystery, part family drama, Casey manages to develop multiple plots simultaneously in the Jess Tennant series. Jess is a character who is stubborn, tough, and headstrong but also has a soft side for those in need; she is, in fact, compelled to eliminate injustice. Jess’s distrust of authority is what drives her determination, and as it turns out, she is not wrong about the corrupt adults creating friction in her life * Voya (US) *

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Book SynopsisA wonderfully murky, carnivalesque world of intrigue, unexpected friendships and mysteries solved.Sheba the wolf girl joins an unusual troupe of performers that includes Pyewacket, a witch's imp; Gigantus the giant and Sister Moon, a knife thrower. For the first time in her life she feels she might make true friends, and learn a real stage craft. But soon that's not all she has to think about . . .Children are being sucked into the Thames and there have been strange sightings of a mechanical monster. The carnival troupe know first-hand that looks only tell half a story - they become determined to find these forgotten children. Perhaps they will unravel the mystery that has defied even the law!Illustrated with black and white artwork from superstar illustrator, Sam Usher, and the first in a brand new series!'Thrilling, original, full of zest and wit.' The London Times'An atmospheric and exciting read.' BookTrust

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Book SynopsisThe perfect dark academia read, filled with murder, twists, a jaw-dropping mystery and very privileged people doing deliciously bad things.? ? Danielle Valentine, New York Times Bestselling author of Two Sides to Every MurderFrom New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of They Wish They Were Us and The Counselors, comes a page-turning murder mystery set ata prestigious New England boarding schoolabout the importance--and price--of telling the truth.Secrets don''t die.It?s the first week of senior year at Meadowbrook Academy. For Amy and her best friend Sarah, that means late-night parties at the boathouse, bike rides through their sleepyConnecticut town, and the crisp beginning of a New England fall.Then tragedy strikes: Sarah and her boyfriend are brutally murdered in their dorm room. Now the week Amy has been dreaming about for years has turned into a nightmare, especially when all eyes turn to her as the culprit. She was Sarah?s only roommate, the only other person there when she died?or so she told the police to cover for her own boyfriend?s suspicious whereabouts. And even though they were best friends, with every passing day, Amy begins to learn that Sarah lied about a lot of things.Liz, editor of the school newspaper and social outcast, is determined to uncover the truth about what happened on campus, in hopes her reporting will land a prestigious scholarship to college. As Liz dives deeper into her investigation,the secrets these murdered seniors never wanted out come to light. The deeper Liz digs, the messier the truth becomes ? and with a killer still on campus, she can?t afford to make any mistakes.The Meadowbrook Murders is a gripping mystery about the inextricable way power, privilege, and secrets are linked, and how telling the truth can come at a deadly price.

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Book SynopsisFour students. A fatal car crash. Three come out alive and they will do anything to bury the truth.One of them was driving.One of them was high.One of them screamed.And one of them died.When one of their own is tragically killed in a car crash, Argyle Prep is full of questions. Who was at the wheel? And more importantly, who was at fault?But in a place ruled by pedigree and privilege, the answers can only come at a price.Set against the glitz and glamour of an elite LA private school The Headmaster''s List, Melissa de la Cruz''s first YA thriller, is an addictive whodunit perfect for fans of Gossip Girl and A Good Girl''s Guide to Murder.Trade ReviewMelissa de la Cruz will keep you guessing - all the way up to the last page even when you think you’ve figured it out! Everything you want in a thriller - a complicated heroine, snarky outsiders, cute boys, and a surprising and insightful story about status, race, class and tragedy in Los Angeles. -- Sara Shepard, New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Little LiarsThere's nothing Melissa de la Cruz can't write, and she continues to prove it with this razor-sharp, glitteringly mysterious thriller! Put The Headmaster's List at the top of your TBR. -- Kiersten White, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the And I Darken trilogyA twisty thriller with a likable and complicated protagonist. * Kirkus Reviews *An invigorating thriller teeming with anticipatory tension * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of WISH and BECAUSE OF WINN-DIXIE comes award-winning author Sarah Guillory''s latest middle grade tale of found family and the unshakable bond between a girl and her beloved dog.Twelve-year-old Gloria St. Romain, Glory to everyone who knows her, has always loved mysteries. She spends her time solving puzzles and reading Agatha Christie books, comforted by the knowledge that truth can always be found for those who look closely enough for it.But when her mom suddenly leaves without a word, Glory is finally faced with the one mystery she can''t crack: Why did her mom leave, and where did she go?Sent to spend the summer with her grandparents, Glory is determined to sniff out the clues to track down her mom. And when Glory comes upon Gus, a bloodhound in need of a friend, she realizes she''s been paired with the perfect partner to do just that.With accessible text and a compulsively readable story, Gus and Glory is a perfect pick for upper elementary and middle school readers.

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Book SynopsisBefore he wrote ''A Series of Unfortunate Events'', Lemony Snicket asked all the wrong questions. Four to be exact. This is the account of the second question.In the fading town of Stain'd-by-the-Sea, young apprentice Lemony Snicket has a new case to solve when he and his chaperone are hired to find a missing girl.Is the girl a runaway? Or was she kidnapped? Was she seen last at the grocery store? Or could she have stopped at the diner? Is it really any of your business?In the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent. You'll laugh only if you find humour in gothic and mysterious things involving detectives and crime solving.Lemony's other literary outings in, A Series of Unfortunate Events' have sold 60 million copies worldwide and been made into a Hollywood film starring Jim Carrey. And in the future things are poised to get much worse, thanks to the forthcoming Netflix series directed by Barry SonnenfTrade ReviewChock-full of linguistic play and literary allusions to children’s and classic literature, this is adventure mystery for young readers who like to think as they read * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisDr Dolittle meets Kid Normal in a hilarious middle grade superhero series that tells you what your pets are really thinking, from Bafta-nominated comedian Nat LuurtsemaIn her second hilarious adventure, animal mindreader Opie Jones is off to Scotland to join her dad on the set of his Scottish medical TV show, Highland Docs, accompanied by friends Jackson and Cillian, as well as Margot, the cat with attitude, and Opie's super-keen new sidekick, Slug (an actual slug).But before they get the chance to try out their acting skills, dastardly villain Varling and his band of brainwashers are back with an evil new plan! Can Opie and the gang (plus a showbiz pig) save the day?Perfect for 8+ fans of Charlie Changes into a Chicken, My Brother is a Superhero, Frank Cottrell Boyce and David Baddiel

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Book SynopsisA brilliantly funny and original picture book featuring a feisty female detective who is absolutely the BEST Finder-Outer-in-the-Whole-Wide-World!Penelope Snoop has a new case to solve her favourite toy, Sidney the Smelly Sock Snake, has disappeared. With her trusty sidekick, Carlos the dog, Penelope sets out to uncover the mystery and begins a search for the Sock Snake which will take them right up into outer space!Hilarious, original and fabulously illustrated, this is an irresistible picture book from the bestselling, award-winning Pamela Butchart.Trade ReviewA fabulously funny read aloud text is paired with playful, stylish illustrations and a very commercial jacket, all shot through with eye-catching neon pink * Bookseller March 2022 Children's Previews *

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Book SynopsisReturn to the weird and wonderful world of Maudlin Towers for a second adventure brilliantly written and illustrated throughout by Chris Priestley in this striking and funny package. Mildew and Sponge don't think much of Maudlin Towers, the blackened, gloom-laden, gargoyle-infested monstrosity that is their school. But when they are told the school might close, our heroes realise that being apart and somewhere else could be even worse!But what starts out as a secret hunt for buried treasure quickly becomes weirder than Mildew and Sponge could ever have imagined. Who is that new boy who can get people to do whatever he wants just by looking them intently in the eye? (A hypnotist!) Why does that strange teacher have tattoos and a beard? (He's really a pirate also looking for the treasure!) Could their heartbroken English teacher hold the key to this riddle of riddles? (Just maybe )Most importantly, can Mildew and Sponge save the day and the school once more?This hugely funny, deliciouTrade ReviewThe funniest thing I’ve read all year * Philip Reeve on CURSE OF THE WEREWOLF BOY *Chris Priestley’s Maudlin Towers: Curse of the Werewolf Boy is a book after my own heart. It is beautifully paced, brilliantly illustrated with pen-and-ink drawings by the author and very, very funny. I can’t wait for the next instalment! * Chris Riddell on CURSE OF THE WEREWOLF BOY *

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Book Synopsis Now in paperback, an equal parts heart-pounding and heartfelt middle-grade mystery about facing––and accepting––your fears, perfect for fans of Stranger Things and The Parker InheritanceBones Malone feels like he can’t do anything right in his new small town: He almost punched the son of the woman who babysits him and his brothers, he’s one of the only Black kids in Langille, and now his baseball team (the one place where he really feels like he shines) just lost their first game. To make matters worse, things in town are getting weird. His mom isn’t acting like herself at all—she’s totally spaced out, almost like a zombie. And then he and his brothers have the same dream—one where they’re running from some of their deepest fears, like a bear and an eerie cracked mirror that Bones would rather soon forget.Kyle Specks feels like he can never say the right thing at t

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Book SynopsisFrom Cornwall to the Caribbean, 11-year-old ace detective Laura Marlin comes face to face with pirates, sharks, criminal masterminds and an erupting volcano in her second mystery adventure, from award-winning author Lauren St John. Laura cannot contain her excitement when she wins a trip to the Caribbean for herself and her uncle, Calvin Redfern, especially when her best friend, Tariq, and her three-legged husky, Skye, accidentally find themselves on board too. But when they dock at Antigua, they discover that Calvin Redfern has vanished, and Laura and Tariq are about to be kidnapped by the fearsome Straight A gang. Dramatic escapes, an erupting volcano and a race against time to stop the deadly undercover ''Marine Concern'' make Laura''s second adventure every bit as exciting as the first.Trade ReviewA refreshing Cornish mystery adventure with a traditional, almost Blytonesque feel, but a thoroughly modern and tenacious heroine THE BOOKSELLER on Dead Man's Cove 'With vivid descriptions and a page-turning plot this is the perfect children's summer read, especially for those lucky enough to frequent the magical coastline of Cornwall' WATERSTONES BOOKS QUARTERLY on Dead Man's Cove St John's best work of children's storytelling to date SUNDAY TIMES on Dead Man's Cove

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Book SynopsisWhen Nina''s mother, Miranda, mysteriously disappears, Nina''s father goes to look for her, leaving Nina with her two eccentric aunts who run a charity shop in town. Nina soon discovers that working in the shop can be funny, intriguing and rewarding as she takes in weird and wonderful donations, makes new friends and uncovers strange secrets! But Nina is determined to solve the mysteries that have taken over her life - where has her mother gone? Why did she leave so suddenly? And just what is the secret she''s been hiding?Award-winning author Linda Newbery grips and entertains readers in her usual mesmerising way with this intriguing new mystery.Trade ReviewA warm, light hearted story which will have you scavenging in charity shops in search of your own treasures. * Serendipity Reviews *An accessible real-life mystery from a master storyteller. * ANGELS AND URCHINS *The charm of the book lies in the clear style, fascinating detail, a compelling plot and well-drawn characters... Newbery brings in, with her usual light touch, some pressing concerns: bullying, friendship, mental health and the nature of parenthood. In the modern world of texts and mobile phones she gives us the perennial hopes and fears of a young girl growing up and facing problems with courage and sensitivity. -- Jan Lee * The Oxford Times *This is a charming book with a mix of believable characters and, as one would expect from Linda Newbery, a strong sense of place. Wotj am added pinch of mystery this is a thoroughly engaging and warm story. -- Jane Sandell * THE SCOTSMAN *The book was a fantastic and really enjoyable novel. The author kept me interested all the way through, describing the characters so well. You can picture them in your mind and sometimes feel the character's emotions! The book is full of surprising twists and turns which keeps you entertained. It was very hard to put the book down. -- Maud, age 10 * Anorak Magazine *

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. Also available in audiobook! In book four, something mysterious is going on at Tigger''s Barn, and the Secret Seven are intrigued. Peter thinks it''s all just gossip, but Jack isn''t so sure when he overhears a strange conversation. It looks like the Seven are on the trail of another exciting adventure!Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1952. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. Also available in audiobook! In book six, Peter and Janet are the only witnesses when a car is stolen. They saw the thieves, and now the whole of the Secret Seven are involved. But when they realise they''re on the trail of a dangerous gang, the Seven don''t feel quite so brave.Have they taken on too much this time?Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1954. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reprodu

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. In book nine, a girl has mysteriously run away from home and her parents are frantic with worry. Can the Secret Seven follow the clues and catch up with the girl, or will Susie, Jack''s troublesome little sister get in the way?Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1957. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Have you read all 15 books in the original Secret Seven series by Enid Blyton? And don''t miss these other Secret Seven titles...Mystery of the Skull - a brand-new Secret Seven mystery by prizewinning author Pamela Butchart. S

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. In book fourteen, Scamper the spaniel discovers an unwanted visitor, then he protects the Secret Seven as they spy on a thief late at night in Bramley Woods! What on earth would the Secret Seven do without their dog?Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1962. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Have you read all 15 books in the original Secret Seven series by Enid Blyton? And don''t miss these other Secret Seven titles...Mystery of the Skull - a brand-new Secret Seven mystery by prizewinning author Pamela Butchart. Secret Seve

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Book Synopsis''The thing about ghosts is sometimes we create our own. And sometimes they find us, no matter what we do.'' The thrilling conclusion to the Ghosts of Shanghai by the award-winning author of the Mysterium trilogy, for fans of Philip Pullman, Susan Hill and Robin Stevens.Ruby is on a mission to rescue the boy she loves: Charlie has been swept away in the powerful waters of the River Yangtze. But the world she loves is now broken by danger and fear, and Ruby is lost and surrounded by ghosts. Can Ruby trust herself, and those around her, to find Charlie and return to Shanghai? Or has she ventured too deep into the realm of spirits?On an amazing journey down the Yangtze, crossing from one world to the other, Ruby must follow the ''red thread of destiny'' to find Charlie and home, before she loses herself . . .

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Book SynopsisThe Secret Seven are siblings Peter and Janet, and Jack, Barbara, Pam, Colin and George. Together they are The Secret Seven - ready to solve any mystery, any time - in Enid Blyton''s classic series of 15 mystery novels.Peter is running the hoopla-stall, but when Fred offers him a pony ride, Scamper is left in charge. When Peter returns Scamper and the money are missing!In addition to the Secret Seven novels, Enid Blyton wrote six short stories based on the characters which are published in The Secret Seven Short Story Collection (Hodder). The stories are also available in individual volumes, divided into chapters to make them ideal for newly confident readers. They have been illustrated in full colour by Tony Ross.

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