Children’s / Teenage fiction: Horror and ghost stories

Book SynopsisLydia Cornwallis arrives and finds acceptance, even adoration, from the close-knit social circle on the exclusive island of Fengari. But there are two girls in particular that Lydia simply can't wait to meet: the Harrington sisters. That's because Lydia's not really Lydia Cornwallis. And the Harringtons have hell to pay for what they've done.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn original interpretation of the timelessly fascinating vampire myth, and a story of father and son, by award-winning author Marcus Sedgwick. Winner of the Booktrust Teenage Prize and shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.In the bitter cold of an unrelenting winter, Tomas and his son, Peter, arrive in Chust. Despite the villagers' lack of hospitality, they settle there as woodcutters. But there are many things Peter does not understand. Why does Tomas dig a channel of fast-flowing waters around their hut so they live on an isolated island? Why does Tomas carry a long battered box everywhere they go - and refuse to tell Peter of its contents?When a band of gypsies comes to the village, Peter's drab existence is turned upside down. He is infatuated by the beautiful gypsy princess, Sofia, and intoxicated by her community's love of life. He even becomes drawn into their deadly quest - for these travellers are Vampire Slayers, and Chust is a community to which the dead return to wreak revenge on the living. Stylishly written and set in the forbidding and remote landscapes of the 17th century, this is a story of a father and his son, of loss, redemption and resolution.Trade Review'a bloodthirsty tale which grips readers from the off.' -- Tom Lewis, WS Cheltenham WATERSTONE'S BOOKS QUARTERLY 'Marcus Sedgwick paints a chilling and irresistibly Gothic picture of the fight between good against evil. This book is tense, unnerving and well-structured - it scared me right to the end and I could not put it down.' -- Anna Hickling LANCASHIRE REVIEWS OF THE YEAR 'Compelling and thought-provoking' -- Tom Gatti THE TIMES 'Thrilling and tautly written' THE TIMES 'Heart-stopping read' -- Amanda Craig THE TIMES

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisXan Kaur is a photographer and author based out of Atlanta. Born in the Land of Waterfalls and raised in rural Georgia, she's moved more times than the years she's been alive. After a childhood spread across dozens of small towns, Xan developed a keen eye for observation of the human experience from a young age.Having grown up in a non-traditional British-Punjabi household, she became familiar with Pink Floyd before bhangra, grits before aloo gobi. She aims for her writing to reflect these unique, often-overlooked diasporic experiences, with an emphasis on one's relationship to the physical world around them.With a passion for environmentalism, a decade of veganism, and a fierce reverence for nature, Xan finds herself drawn to experiences that connect her with the earth. When not writing, you can find her behind her camera, hiking up a mountain, or swimming in the nearest ocean.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn instant New York Times bestseller, Wilder Girls is Rory Power's chilling and unputdownable YA debut. The Power meets We Were Liars in this compelling story of survival and the power of female friendships, perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder.'Body horror meets boarding school in a moving, terrifying thriller' – GuardianEveryone loses something to the Tox; Hetty lost her eye, Reese's hand has changed, and Byatt just disappeared completely.It’s been eighteen months since the Raxter School for Girls was put in quarantine. The Tox turned the students strange and savage, the teachers died off one by one. Cut off from the mainland, the girls don’t dare wander past the school’s fence where the Tox has made the woods wild and dangerous. They wait for the cure as the Tox takes; their bodies becoming sick and foreign, things bursting out of them, bits missing.But when Byatt goes missing, Hetty will do anything to find her best friend, even if it means breaking quarantine and braving the horrors that lie in the wilderness past the fence. As she digs deeper, she learns disturbing truths about her school and what else is living on Raxter Island. And that the cure might not be a cure at all . . .'Your new favourite book' – Cosmopolitan'Wholly original and compelling' – Observer'A staggering gut punch of a book' – KirkusTrade ReviewBody horror meets boarding school in a moving, terrifying thriller . . . one of the year's most memorable debut's. * Guardian, The Best Books of 2020 *Your new favourite book. * Cosmopolitan *Finally, Rory Power combines the challenges of dystopian survival with the dynamics of boarding school life in the wholly original and compelling Wilder Girls. -- Fiona Noble * Observer *This thrilling saga . . . is sure to be one of the season’s most talked-about books, in any genre. * Entertainment Weekly *Groundbreaking . . . brutal and beautiful, raw and unflinching. -- Emily Suvada, author of This Mortal CoilPart survival thriller, part post-apocalyptic romance, and part ecocritical feminist manifesto, a staggering gut punch of a book. * Kirkus, Starred Review *Power's evocative, haunting, and occasionally gruesome debut will challenge readers to ignore its bewitching presence. * Booklist, Starred Review *Wilder Girls is the bold, imaginative, emotionally wrenching horror novel of my dreams – one that celebrates the resilience of girls and the earthshaking power of their friendships. An eerie, unforgettable triumph. -- Claire Legrand, New York Times bestselling author of FurybornWilder Girls is so sharp and packs so much emotion in such wise ways. I'm convinced we're about to witness the emergence of a major new literary star. -- Jeff VanderMeer, New York Times bestselling author of AnnihilationThe perfect kind of story for our current era * Hypable *A feminist, LGBT+, sci-fi-horror story with all the tantalizing elements of gore, mystery, war, and love you can ask for. Real, flawed, brave girls against a world gone mad. A shudderingly good read! -- Dawn Kurtagich, author of Teeth in the MistA very different boarding school tale * i News *A New York Times bestseller, this is a story of survival and the power of female friendships. It’s part thriller and part post-apocalyptic romance, celebrating the resilience and strength of girls * Muddy Stilettos, included in a best book for teenagers round-up *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisGabriel is being chased by monsters! His friend is one, and so is his uncle, his grandma … even the cat! But who will catch him? A much-loved picture book from the award-winning Lucy Cousins, now available in paperback.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA one-of-a-kind, hilarious, high-stakes murder mystery perfect for fans of Holly Jackson, Benjamin Dean and Only Murders in the Building.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis sensational YA debut blends tense, terrifying horror with dark humour, queer romance and hugely original storytelling. GuardianNovember 1999, North Dana, Massachusetts. The body of Bastion Attia high school quarterback, secret witch, and Nesbit Nuñez's even-more-secret boyfriend is discovered at the edge of Stepwood Cemetery. As Nesbit and his coven of queer misfits investigate Bastion's death they discover local folktales of Mr. Nous, a terrifying wish-granting creature, one whose gifts come at a terrible price.The coven must do battle against an age-old evil before it strikes again Now, Conjurers is a wildly original, spinechilling YA debut about queer found family and a love that outlasts death.This book is charm itself smart, edgy, funny and heartfelt.' Tamsyn Muir bestselling author of Gideon the Ninth

Read more less

Book Synopsis9:22. It was always 9:22. Preston is in a desolate void between life and death.To save his soul he must brave his greatest fear - Cold Bath Street. A gothic thriller that will keep you gripped to the end. Special, limited edition of the bestselling book with map by Harry Potter illustrator Tomislav Tomic.Trade Review"This is an excellent book with compelling characters, a creepy atmosphere and a clever plot. It was hard to put down and I finished it in one day." Joseph Delaney, author of the Spooks Apprentice series.

Read more less

Book SynopsisI devoured it whole.'- KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE** SHORTLISTED FOR THE YA BOOK PRIZE 2022 **The Hollow sisters - Vivi, Grey and Iris - are as seductively glamorous as they are mysterious.Trade ReviewStepping nimbly among the liminal spaces and eerie real-world haunts of our heroine's cipher-sister, this haunting modern fairy tale will wrap you up like a glittering fog, before going for your throat. -- Melissa AlbertThis dark, deliciously twisted novel has everything you could hope for as a reader - a brilliant concept, glamorous characters with secrets to hide, immersive world building, and some of the finest writing I've seen in YA fiction. I'll put it like this - I am obsessed with the House of Hollow. -- Louise O'NeillDark and delicious, HOUSE OF HOLLOW hums with malice and mystery. I devoured it whole. -- Kiran Millwood HargraveIn House of Hollow, Krystal Sutherland turns her razor-sharp imagination to new horizons and proves, once again, that words blossom at her command. This story will steal up your spine, slip beneath your skin, and stick to you like honey. -- Samantha ShannonUtterly gripping, deliciously strange and haunting. -- Katherine RundellAlive with lush language and a dark fairy tale feel, this is a compelling readalike for lovers of Holly Black's many wonderful fair folk standalones and series. -- Abby Bussen * School Library Journal *Iris' smart and assured narration easily carries a fast-paced story entwining themes of grief and loss with elements of folklore and some very inventive body horror. The pervasive feeling of dread builds to a shocking twist. A lush and darkly twisted modern fairy tale. * Kirkus *House of Hollow is an eerily beautiful dark fable of sisterhood and horror stories that won't stay put on their pages. -- Anna JamesLush, sinister, beautiful and laced with corruption - the ultimate twisted fairytale -- Imogen Russell WilliamsA gorgeous, grisly modern fairytale. * Guardian *A genre-twisting mystery with a supernatural edge. * The Bookseller *I gobbled this eerie and gorgeous book whole. It has proper Shirley Jackson vibes. Totally spellbinding. * Holly Bourne *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA ghostly addition to the multi-million selling Ology World series, brought to the attention of Templar, publishers of rare and unusual books - GHOSTOLOGY.In 1975, under a bed in an old house in Tarrytown, New York, an unearthly tome entitled Ghostology was discovered, wrapped in a substance, later found to be ectoplasm. It is the life's work and study of American ghostologist Lucinda Curtle, who mysteriously passed to the Other Side during a seance. After her death, Ghostology seemingly became haunted by the ghost of Lucinda herself, who now wants to keep the secrets of the dead A SECRET. Now published, ghostwritten by Dugald Steer, the world itself can decide if Ghostology - purporting to tell the truth about ghosts - was solid fact or insubstantial fiction.Delve into the wealth of information and learn about different types of ghosts, ghosts around the world and ghost through history; haunted houses, ships and other objects (including books); the ghostologist's field kit; psychics and mediums; fakes and frauds; test your ghostological knowledge on one of Lucinda's own case studies. Complete with a jewel in the cover, as well as letters, booklets, sealed pages, flaps, a moving wheel novelty and glow in the dark ink.

Read more less

Book SynopsisViggo is fifteen years old, living in Edinburgh with his mum. He has no plans for the future other than to watch the new Thor movie at his local multiplex. But one morning, he wakes to the news that his older brother, Magnus, has gone missing on Shetland. Mum has already booked tickets to go and search for him. There’s good reason to be worried. Five years ago, Viggo’s dad, Jonathan, went ‘off grid’ in the same location and disappeared. He is now ‘missing presumed dead.’ Viggo has no option but to go to Shetland with Mum - but from the moment they set off, he’s troubled by strange visions: images of armed warriors, mythical creatures and Viking longships. And then they encounter Leon, a mysterious wandering musician who attaches himself to them and proves impossible to shake off. Once on Shetland, the search for Magnus begins in earnest and Viggo’s troubling visions start to intensify. Soon he is finding it difficult to separate fact from fantasy… and who knows what terrors lie in wait for him deep beneath the ground?

Read more less

Book SynopsisCemetery Boys is an LGBTQIA+ ghost story about magic, acceptance and what it means to be your true self. From the instant New York Times-bestelling author Aiden Thomas.Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can’t get rid of him.In an attempt to prove himself a true brujo and gain his family’s acceptance, Yadriel decides to summon his cousin’s ghost and help him cross to the afterlife.But things get complicated when he accidentally summons the ghost of his high school’s resident bad boy, Julian Diaz – and Julian won't go into death quietly.The two boys must work together if Yadriel is to move forward with his plan.But the more time Yadriel and Julian spend together, the harder it is to let each other go . . .'A celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery' &ndasTrade ReviewCemetery Boys is necessary: for trans kids, for queer kids, for those in the Latinx community who need to see themselves on the page. Don’t miss this book. -- Mark Oshiro, author of Anger is a GiftAiden Thomas' debut novel can't help but charm and captivate readers of all ages, though teen readers will invariably identify with and appreciate the high jinks and emotional vulnerability that make each character and scenario deliciously enchanting. * Booklist, starred review *Thomas injects the queer paranormal romance genre with a fresh shot of lavishly detailed Latinx culture, blending in Mayan, Mexican, Central American and South American traditions while commenting on cultural appropriation, deportation and class. * New York Times Book Review *This book is magical, tender, loving, and so so so important. I love it with all my heart. -- Mason Deaver, author of I Wish You All The BestThe novel perfectly balances the vibrant, energetic Latinx culture while delving into heavy topics like LGBTQ+ acceptance, deportation, colonization, and racism within authoritative establishments * TeenVogue.com *Cemetery Boys is a celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery. This delightful debut is a must-read for all paranormal romance fans. -- Isabel Sterling, author of These Witches Don't BurnThomas marries concept and execution in a romantic mystery as poignant as it is spellbinding, weaved in a mosaic of culture, acceptance, and identity, where intricately crafted characters are the pieces and love?platonic, romantic, familial, and communal?is the glue. * Publishers Weekly, starred review *Cemetery Boys is nothing short of an astonishing work of art. Aiden Thomas masterfully weaves a tale of family, friendships, and love in a heartwarming adventure full of affirmation and being your best self. -- C.B. Lee, author of Not Your SidekickA gay, transgender brujo with burgeoning powers seeks answers about his cousin’s death... Both the romance and mystery burn slow and hot until the climax... Their romance provides joyful, ground-breaking representation for gay, transgender boys. Heart-pounding. * Kirkus *A story much bigger than the paper that binds it, Cemetery Boys is the tender intricacy we have all been waiting for. -- Kayla Ancrum, author of The Wicker KingSpeaking from experience, this is the kind of book that you read and then immediately go force all your friends to read so they can share the pleasure. * Buzzfeed *A wildly memorable novel. * Paste *This one is just what your heart needs right now. * Tor.com *Thomas sensitively navigates Yadriel’s struggles as a trans teen . . . In spite of some heavy themes, this is a pleasing ghost-story-turned-romcom. * Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *Packed with eerie adventure, tingly romance, and family drama, the novel lays bare the tension between upholding tradition and reaching full self-acceptance. Cheeky, relatable characters bring humor and lightness into Thomas’s debut, which also takes on themes of death, loss, abandonment, and rejection. * Horn Book *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA PULSE-POUNDING RETELLING OF DRACULA SET AGAINST A DELICIOUSLY RETRO 1980s BACKDROP. Mia and Johnny have always been there for each other - particularly since their father was revealed to be a serial killer and is now serving a life sentence for murdering thirteen people. Studying in a small university town near Edinburgh, Mia's coping mechanisms are hiding behind sarcasm, horror writing and her somewhat illegal true crime radio station, while Johnny steps up as her warm, sensitive brother and keeps her out of trouble.But when journalist-wannabe Johnny accepts an offer he cannot refuse - the chance to interview a reclusive mega rock star who disappeared from public view three years ago, Mia finds herself stuck on campus when two male students are found dead.As Johnny grapples with the enigmatic musician, he realises that something about the star's nocturnal habits doesn't quite add up. Meanwhile, Mia's investigation takes her to the most unexpected places - including her dad's prison...An unmissable new YA novel from Booktuber and author of the Mina and the Undead trilogy, Amy McCaw - perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy and Kalynn Bayron.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE BLUE PETER BOOK AWARD 2018 - Best Book with Facts. Have you ever wondered what exactly does go bump in the night? From mysteries like Shackleton’s ghostly companion to the Loch Ness Monster and friends, read the amazing evidence about these mysterious cases and make up your own mind. Things are not always what they seem - until they are, then you might wish you had never asked!Trade Review'A great read!' - North Somerset Teachers Book Award; 'A brilliant, thought-provoking book that will set young brains in motion' - Lancashire Post; 'Ideal for children who continually ask questions' - Parents in Touch; 'A keen example of brilliance of well done non-fiction' - BookMonster; 'Takes me right back to my childhood' - ReadItDaddy; 'In a world of fake news, this book is an excellent primer for thinking about what's fact-based and what's not' - MinervaReads; 'K's eye's lit up as soon as she saw the book because she's been reading lots of adventure mystery stories recently' - Love Hijab Girl; 'The need for objectivity to be taught at a young age has never been more apparent, and this would be a great place to start' - Book Murmuration.

Read more less

Book Synopsis A spooky gothic adventure, perfect for fans of Frances Hardinge and for curling up with on a rainy night ... WINNER OF THE TIMES/CHICKEN HOUSE CHILDREN'S FICTION COMPETITION WINNER OF THE MSLEXIA NOVEL AWARD 'It's exciting and original, warm and funny and gothic' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE Autumn Albert can see the dead – much to her annoyance. But when her dad dies in mysterious circumstances, he’s the one ghost who doesn’t appear. A curious instruction in his will sends Autumn to Imber, the storm-soaked island of his childhood: a place marked by tight-lipped locals, strange stacks of witchstones – and even fewer ghosts. Soon Autumn is ensnared in a dark and twisty mystery, which must be unravelled before the sea rises up and history is doomed to repeat itself ... The debut adventure for ages 9 and up from Emily Randall-Jones, a breathtaking new talent Winner of the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition 2021 A gripping, chilling tale with Gothic elements which offers an original new spin on a traditional ghost story Perfect for fans of Frances Hardinge and Lucy Strange

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA breakout new detective series, from the author of the spine-tingling SCARLET AND IVY series, beautifully illustrated by Hannah Peck.Violet Veil wants nothing more than to prove her worth and become her father's apprentice at Veil & Sons Undertakers. And one rain-soaked night she gets her chance when she meets a boy, Oliver, who is wandering around the graveyard. Only, the last time Violet saw Oliver, he was indoors and very much dead, waiting to be buried. Violet has just found her first case, and it doesn't get bigger than this: can she, with the help of her dog, Bones, help Oliver solve his own murder'?Trade ReviewPraise for the Scarlet and Ivy series: “I loved this book as it is a true page-turning, nail-biting mystery. The author has very cleverly hidden clues in the story and lets us solve the mystery as well. I read it in less than a day. It is gripping and keeps you begging for more.” Guardian.com, Children’s Reviews. ‘I absolutely loved this book and I'd give it 6 out of 5 stars, it's one of the best storylines I've ever come across’ Guardian.com, Children’s Reviews.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNew from Waterstones Prize-shortlisted author-illustrator team, Lucy Strange and Pam Smy: a spirited series of cosy gothic mysteries, starring supernatural sleuths, Lockett & Wilde.This book has more shadowy mysteries than twelve graveyards and more delicious twists than my favourite pretzel. All hail Lockett & Wilde! Lemony SnicketWildly funny. Ben MillerMatilda Lockett is used to playing the role of Poor Dead Edna on stage with her spirit-medium aunt, Signora Valentina, and theatrical uncle Barnabus but when they all decamp to Beauchamp Manor to deal with a most dreadful haunting, she discovers she really can see ghosts! There she meets ghost boy, Edgar Wilde, who shares her love of supernatural snooping, and together they set about unravelling the case of The Ghosts of the Manor.Classic spooky mystery reimagined for fans of cosy crime by the Waterstones Prize and Carnegie-shortlisted creators, Lu

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first book in the Demonata, the demonic symphony in ten parts by multi-million-copy bestselling horror writer Darren ShanWhen Grubbs Grady first encounters Lord Loss and his evil minions, he learns three things: the world is vicious, magic is possible, demons are real.He thinks that he will never again witness such a terrible night of death and darkness.He is wrong.Trade ReviewPraise for Lord Loss “Utterly unputdownable” The Times “The master of children’s horror at his blood-curdling best.” Publishing News Praise for Darren Shan Lord of the Shadows'Stephen King for kids … Darren Shan has brought his own brand of vampire mythology into the heads and hearts of thousands of children with his vivid and compelling series The Saga of Darren Shan, about one boy's journey from ordinary lad to vampire prince. Once they're hooked, kids tend to rip into the flesh of these books, quickly draining them of their life blood. The covers, with images of ghouls, creeping hands and dripping fangs are terrifying alone. ' Metro Life, Evening Standard Cirque Du Freak“…fast-paced and compelling book which leaves the reader hungry for more.”JK Rowling "I read Cirque Du Freak last week. I loved it. I love the way you manage to juggle the funny with the unpleasant, the affection with the hurt. It'sgreat story-telling."Roddy Doyle

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“This party starts early, and it does not stop until all the bodies have hit the floor.” — Stephen Graham Jones, author of Mongrels and The Only Good Indians "Adam Cesare's CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD starts as a fun and scary retro-slasher but then cleverly twists and bloodies its way into being a very new kind of beast. Rejoice horror fans new and old, and be terrified of Adam's everyday clowns." — Paul Tremblay, author of A Head Full of Ghosts and The Cabin at the End of the World "Tense, modern and gory, Cesare's Clown in a Cornfield is simultaneously classic and fresh. This is thrilling, old school horror for a new generation." — Madeleine Roux, author of the Asylum series "There’s a lot to love about Adam Cesare’s new novel, Clown in a Cornfield. First, the title. Holy crap. Then the front cover. Double holy crap. Also consider it’s already received blurbs from people like Clive Barker, Stephen Graham Jones, and Paul Tremblay? Triple holy crap. People are going to be talking about this novel all year. Get ready for it." — Lit Reactor "The immersive atmosphere, nail-biting action sequences, and satisfying social commentary results in a thoughtful, campy, and just-plain-fun read for horror fans, especially those who crave a retro feel but still want a story set firmly in the present." — Library Journal (starred review) "A pulse-pounding thrill ride for retro-horror fans who are not faint of heart (or stomach)." — Kirkus Reviews "This pitch-perfect horror experience can be enjoyed as pure entertainment for its fun retro slasher style, but teen readers will also fully appreciate the sly underlying social commentary." — Booklist (starred review) "With this novel, Cesare is going to create a new generation of life-long horror fans." — Signal Horizon Magazine "Cesare’s cinematic eye means the set-pieces are loud, brash, and dramatic (it’s no surprise that there’s a film adaptation in the works). Given what we are all experiencing now, there’s something wonderfully pleasing, nostalgic, and even therapeutic spending several hours cheering on Quinn – smart and brave -- as she takes on [...] killer clowns." — Locus Magazine "Clown in a Cornfield delivers everything the title promises--and more. More carnage, more mayhem and a sly social commentary that cuts to the bone. A must-read for horror fans." — Riley Sager, New York Times bestselling author of Final Girls Clown in a Cornfield is a true-to-form classic horror story, complete with blood and gore, chainsaws and crossbows, and abundant deaths. This is a truly fun piece of escapism for teens who are okay with slasher-flick violence. — YALSA’s Best Fiction for Young Adults Nominee This debut horror novel has all the trappings of a good, popcorn-scented slasher flick. Reluctant readers will find this a quick and fun read. They will definitely appreciate the stress-relieving escapism. Suggest it to readers looking for Stephen King read-alikes and fans of the Friday the 13th franchise. — YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers Nominee

Read more less

Book SynopsisWelcome to It's Behind You!, the reality game show that will scare you to death. Five contestants must sit tight through the night in dark and dangerous Umber Gorge caves, haunted by a ghost called the Puckered Maiden. But is it the malevolent spirit they should fear. or each other?

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's been a year since nearly-twelve-year-old Ari's older sister, Lana, ran away. She was taken by the Twig Man, the creepy monster that's haunted the woods for one hundred years. No one else will listen, so it's down to Ari to save his sister... The award-winning spooky middle-grade by debut author Sana Rasoul.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the best-selling master storyteller, Sir Philip Pullman, dive once again into the world of His Dark Materials and The Book of Dust...''D''you - er - have you seen her before?''''Yes. I know who she is.''''But, Grinstead, this painting is seventy years old - probably nearer eighty! You''re not being serious - I mean . . . What do you mean?''On a dark winter''s night in 1970, Horley and Grinstead huddle for warmth in the Senior Common Room of a college in Oxford. Conversation turns to the two impressive works of art that Horley has recently added to his collection.What the two men don''t know is that these pieces are connected in mysterious and improbable ways; and they are about to be caught in the cross-fire of a story which has travelled time and worlds.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJack stands in the dark on the landing of the old house, and looks at his feet. He has been here for minutes, his hand on the door handle, debating whether or not to go in. A high-ceilinged room lit only by candles. Thirteen chairs, one empty. Twelve ghostly storytellers, waiting to begin. Come in! Take your place. We have been expecting you. Do you dare to listen to our stories? Do you dare to tell your own? Jack is a curious boy. Are you curious too?Trade Review13 Chairs . . . eerie 13 ghost stories. . . . 13 chills I'll never forget * R.L. Stine *A brilliant collection for those who love shivery stories * Julia Eccleshare *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnimals behaving oddly, people falling suddenly ill – what’s creeping around down at the farm? Crooked Oak’s mystery-solving team return with another spine-tingling adventure. A mystery is growing at Dunwick Farm and it all started with a plane crash … Crooked Oak's mystery-solving team return with another spine-tingling adventure, perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Crater Lake. When an unidentified plane crashes in the fields next to Dunwick Farm in Crooked Oak, it quickly becomes clear that it was carrying some unusual cargo. As people in the town fall suddenly ill and animals start behaving strangely, friends Pete, Krish and Nancy try to find out what was in the glass boxes on board the plane. But as they uncover the facts, the trio realise that they are becoming entangled in a terrifying web …Trade Review"Another belter of a book! An eerie mystery thriller that sucks you in, creeps you out and leaves you flinching at any movement in the shadows for days afterwards!" "This edge-of-seat mystery is instantly engaging … With short, punchy chapters and dynamic, black-and-white illustrations it is especially suitable for less-confident, older readers who enjoy creepy, adrenalin-fuelled stories. Not suitable for those of a delicate disposition, this nightmarish thriller will make your skin crawl" "I've loved this whole series … and The Horror of Dunwick Farm is another cracker"

Read more less

Book SynopsisShortlisted for the 2021 CrimeFest Award for Best Crime Novel for Young AdultsShortlisted for the 2022 Grampian Children's Book AwardLauren James is a genius. SFX MagazineLauren James isn't just headed for the stars she's already there. Samantha Shannon, author of The Priory of the Orange TreeWhat if death is only the beginning? When Harriet Stoker dies after falling from a balcony in a long-abandoned building, she discovers a world of ghosts with magical powers shape-shifting, hypnosis, even the ability to possess the living. Felix, Kasper, Rima and Leah welcome her into their world, eager to make friends with the new arrival. Yet Harriet is more interested in unleashing her own power, even if it means destroying everyone around her. But when all of eternity is at stake, the afterlife can be a dangerous place to make an enemy.Trade ReviewHarriet Stoker is such a wild ride. Twisty plot, murderous ghosts, found family, slow-burn romance - I was hooked from the very first chapter and could not put this book down. With characters I instantly loved (and some I hated), this book is by far my favourite Lauren James story. * Alice Oseman *Featured in The Bookseller's September Previews. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Featured in SFX’s ‘Out Now’ section. * SFX *Featured in the ‘30 best new books for young adults and older children to read during October half-term 2020’ in The i. * The i *I absolutely loved this book, I was engrossed in it. It is brilliantly written [..] I highly recommend this book to anybody who enjoys fantasy; it is a flawlessly crafted novel. * Books Up North *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSquid Game meets Agatha Christie in this locked-room virtual reality murder mystery, where the only option is to win – or die trying… _______________ Video games have never been more murderous. Veronica wakes up trapped with four strangers in a sprawling manor house in a snow storm with a dead body, a mystery right out of an Agatha Christie novel. It feels so real – but it isn’t. This is VR and this is THE Game; a rumoured Easter Egg hidden in other VR games that draws you into a competition for a prize beyond your wildest dreams. And there’s no escaping the VR world until the Game is won. But while Veronica and her fellow players are trying to figure out the puzzle, something is not right in the VR world. Blackouts, glitches, NPCs acting strange, and a mysterious figure haunting their footsteps. Then when a player dies, and also dies in real life, all hell breaks loose. Without warning, the game Veronica thought she was playing gets overshadowed by a much darker, and much more real, mystery: who is killing us?’ It may not be a game Veronica wanted to play, but it’s one that she has to win – or die trying.Trade Review‘The action gets going right from the start, making for a really good read, as you’re entertained throughout’ Independent * The Independent *Brilliantly executed with unexpected twists and turns, Let's Play Murder is like the best, most carefully crafted mystery mixed with classic video games. It will keep you guessing until the very last page. Ready Player One meets Agatha Christie, Let's Play Murder is the chilling thriller you don't want to miss * Alison Weatherby, author of The Secrets Act *I just couldn't put it down - Kesia's writing was so immersive, and she's taken a very unique concept and created such a gripping story with very distinctive characters * Aneesa Marufu, author of The Balloon Thief *Black Mirror meets One of Us Is Lying. Let’s Play Murder had me racing to finish and questioning everything right up to the explosive conclusion * Amy McCaw, author of Mina and the Undead and Mina and the Slayers *A fast paced mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. Let’s Play Murder is like a dark, twisted escape room for your mind. The ultimate combination of fun and fear * Fran Hart, author of The Other Ones *I rattled through it in a couple of frantic nights' reading as I couldn't wait to get to the end! I loved the twisty mash-up of virtual reality and old-school murder mystery; it was delightfully creepy and atmospheric * Andreina Cordani, author of The Girl Who... and Dead Lucky *Talk about twists and turns – this book had me gripped and guessing all the way through. Everything about it was wonderfully dark: the secrets, the intricately-drawn setting, the shadowy characters. I’ve never been so desperate to get to the end of a book * Molly Morris, author of This is Not the End *Ready Player One meets Agatha Christie. I gulped down this thrilling, mysterious and highly original read, and I defy anyone to guess the ending * Anna Day, author of The Fandom and The Fandom Rising *A stormer of a story! * Kiran Millwood Hargrave on WE ARE BLOOD AND THUNDER *A gorgeously written fantasy, with a haunting, intricate world * Mary Watson on WE ARE BLOOD AND THUNDER *'Let's Play Murder is unputdownable, immersive, edge-of-your-seat excitement. If you're looking for a thrilling blend of thriller and horror to set your pulse-racing, plus a truly shocking, gasp-worthy twist, this is the book for you.' Katharine Corr / Elizabeth Corr Authors of Daughter of Darkness and A Throne Of Swans/A Crown Of Talons -- Katherine and Elizabeth Corr * Katherine and Elizabeth Corr *A fast-paced, tense read that combines murder-mystery with a sinister VR world - a thrilling ride! -- Ravena Guron (author of This Book Kills) * Ravena Guron (author of This Book Kills) *A nightmare VR escape room brilliantly combined with a gripping murder mystery - I was hooked from the first page and tore through Let's Play Murder! -- Tess James-Mackey (Author of Someone Is Watching You) * Tess James-Mackey (Author of Someone Is Watching You) *“The chilling world of virtual reality is the backdrop for this edge-of-your seat nightmare. Veronica, whose half-brother, Max, is desperately ill, is accidentally sucked into a dark-web murder mystery game where the victor wins millions. It could save Max, but four others are also competing, all with reasons of their own. Then something goes wrong, people get killed and someone starts haunting the house for revenge. Genuinely creepy” * Daily Mail *

Read more less

Book Synopsis*** A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER *** "A riveting debut from a remarkable new voice! Trang Thanh Tran weaves an impressive gothic mystery in which Jade's father is determined to restore a decrepit home to its former glory and Jade is the only person who feels the soul-crushing devastation of colonialism lingering within its walls." -Angeline Boulley, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Firekeeper's Daughter Jade Nguyen has always lied to fit in. She’s straight enough, Vietnamese enough, American enough – at least for this summer with her estranged father in Vietnam. Just five weeks of ignoring the quietly decaying French colonial house he's fixing up, then college and freedom are hers. But soon Jade begins waking up every morning certain that something has clawed down her throat. . . from the inside. Then the ghost of a beautiful bride visits her with a cryptic warning: DON’T EAT. When her father and little sister don't believe her, Jade decides to scare them into leaving by staging some haunting events of her own. She recruits Florence, the daughter of her dad's business associate (and more of a distraction than Jade bargained for) to help. But the house has other plans. It's hungry. A home, after all, is only as powerful as those who breathe new life into its bones. And this one is determined never to be abandoned again … This deliciously spooky, yearningly romantic ghost story from a brilliant debut author will thrill fans of Kalynn Bayron and Wilder Girls by Rory Power.Trade ReviewA riveting debut from a remarkable new voice! Trang Thanh Tran weaves an impressive gothic mystery in which Jade's father is determined to restore a decrepit home to its former glory and Jade is the only person who feels the soul-crushing devastation of colonialism lingering within its walls. * Angeline Boulley, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Firekeeper's Daughter *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA teen girl's attempt to make amends with her former friendship group takes a sinister turn during a weekend getaway at an ancestral Irish estate in this atmospheric, literary horror from the author of Those We Drown.At the illustrious Greyscott's Academy, reputation is everything...For Meg the rules are simple: keep your head down, know your place, and stay invisible until graduation. That is, until the glamorous and intimidating Wren twins - Lottie and Sebastien - decide to take Meg under their gilded wings.But not all that glitters is gold.Following an incident at the Midsummer Ball, Meg finds herself suspended from school and shunned by Lottie, Sebastien and all their friends. Desperate to make amends, she accepts an unexpected invitation to an exclusive party at Wren Hall.But when one of the party-goers disappears and a violent storm traps the group inside the house, she realizes there's more to the

Read more less

Book SynopsisA livestreamed game of tag over one adrenaline-and-fear-fuelled nightin London, watched by millions. Four contestants. One will stopat nothing to be the winner...

Read more less

Book SynopsisTurn on your torches and join Aveline Jones!Aveline is thrilled when she discovers that the holiday cottage her mum has rented for the summer is beside a stone circle. Thousands of years old, the local villagers refer to the ancient structure as the Witch Stones, and Aveline cannot wait to learn more about them. Then Aveline meets Hazel. Impossibly cool, mysterious yet friendly, Aveline soon falls under Hazel's spell. In fact, Hazel is quite unlike anyone Aveline has ever met before, but she can't work out why. Will Aveline discover the truth about Hazel, before it's too late?Join the world of Aveline Jones, where mysteries are solved, spirits are laid to rest, and everybody gets to bed on time. Perfect for adventurers aged 9+ and fans of Michelle Harrison, Piers Torday and Jamie Littler.Trade ReviewCaptivating and gorgeously written. I was definitely bewitched! * Michelle Harrison *Convincing characters, an intriguing plot and just the right amount of spine-tingling chills make this a perfect Halloween tale for brave middle-grade readers * BookTrust *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA brand new title in the bestselling gorgeously gothic and wickedly funny Amelia Fang series perfect for readers of 7+MEET AMELIA FANGA little vampire with a big heart.Amelia Fang's mum has a baby vampire on the way! But with the Fang household completely focussed on the new arrival, no one is paying Amelia any attention.Until she is asked to look after three very mischievous caticorns who make it their business to get Amelia in a world of trouble.Now EVERYONE is watching. And not in a good way!Sink your fangs into Amelia's other howlingly hilarious adventures:Amelia Fang and the Barbaric BallAmelia Fang and the Unicorn LordsAmelia Fang and the Memory ThiefAmelia Fang and the Half-Moon HolidayAmelia Fang and the Lost Yeti TreasuresAmelia Fang is perfect for readers of 7+ and fans of Witch Wars, The Worst Witch and Isadora MoonWhen she''s not trying to take over the world or fighting sock-stealing monsters, Laura Ellen Anderson is a professional children''s book author & illustrator, wTrade ReviewThe perfect mix of funny, foul and fearful ', Metro 'Brilliantly imagined . . . laugh-out-loud funny', Sunday Express

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe brand new must-read middle-grade novel from the author of super-spooky Crater Lake. Perfect for 9+ fans of R.L.Stine's Goosebumps and Stranger Things. It's Colette's birthday and the friends are spending an evening at Neon Perch an epic entertainment spot where they can eat pizza, play mini golf and best of all take part in Project Z an epic new escape room experience. It's going to be the best night ever!Or is it . . . ?Somehow, the escape room somehow seems to know each player's greatest fears. And worst of all, there are creatures locked up with them. Creatures from their darkest nightmares . . . giant, poisonous RATS!Deliciously scary and hilarious comedy-horror, perfectly pitched for eight-plus.The Guardian on Dread WoodTrade Review'Imagine a book that serves up those super-spooky vibes that kids love… horrors galore, a delicious dollop of black comedy and a bunch of spiky classmates with a murky, rat-infested mystery to solve . . . Killick is a slick and sassy storyteller… she knows just how far to take her heart-stopping tales of cool comedy and scary horror as she pumps up the action and lets loose her rich imagination. Just be prepared to read this gorgeous, gigglesome chiller-thriller in one sitting!’ Lancashire Post 'Massive kudos to our horror queen, Jennifer Killick, who once again raises the bar for scares and suspense . . . her storytelling is fast-paced and twisty but she still manages to keep it light and hilarious in those darker moments.' Check ‘Em Out Books review, December 2023 Praise for the Dread Wood series: “Brilliantly creepy fun for young horror fans, with an unexpectedly moving ending.” – iNews “Jennifer Killick’s talent for horror and humour is blended brilliantly here as the spiky dialogue, unstoppable pace and genuinely menacing atmosphere build to a tremendous climax”– Daily Mail “Deliciously scary and hilarious comedy-horror, perfectly pitched for eight-plus.” The Guardian “This is Killick’s best book yet; think ‘The Breakfast Club’ meets ‘Stranger Things’, making great use of her talent for comic dialogue and her astute eye for just the right kind of scary for this age group.” – Editor’s Choice, The Bookseller Jennifer has, yet again, upped the level of stylishly slick, sinister storylines and honed her clever range of shock / comedy techniques – from the laugh-out-loud, nose-snortingly funny moments, to the cheekily edgy asides, to the poignant warm-hearted, gentle, fun scenes she does so well. - ReadingZone (Book of the Day, February 16th 2022)

Read more less

Book SynopsisAfter their recent adventures, the Lockwood & Co team deserve a well-earned break ...so naturally they decide to risk their lives breaking into a heavily-guarded crypt. A building full of unsettled souls, it's also the final resting place of Marissa Fittes, the legendary and (supposedly) long-dead ghost hunter.Trade ReviewStroud at the top of his game * Financial Times *A brilliant culmination to a splendidly scary series * Metro *Stroud’s prose is evocative . . . and his horrors, pattering in the footsteps of M. R. James, depend more on the reader’s imagination than the writer’s gruesome welter. His humour is also perfectly judged, never undermining the terror, but allowing the reader to bask in the camaraderie of London’s smallest, most slapdash and unlikely ghost-hunting agency, the eponymous Lockwood and Co. Throughout the series, he has achieved great feats of ­characterisation. -- Imogen Russell-Williams * TLS *A devilishly good combination of engaging cast, memorable locations, comforting food and delicious pace all sewn together with seriously good, unaffected writing, The Empty Grave is the full monty; entertainment, excitement and intelligence sprinkled with wit and verve and sparkling throughout with an endorphin-laced exploration of a liminal frontier – in this case the very boundary between the living and the dead. The Empty Grave is a fitting and extraordinary end to a remarkable series; I am very envious of those who are yet to discover Lockwood & Co. for themselves. -- Zoe Toft * Playing By The Book *[T]he thrilling finale to the multi award-winning series, and the excitement and tension are held right to the very end. Sad to see a great series reach its conclusion, but better to go out on a high note, as this does. * Parents in Touch *

Read more less

Book SynopsisHappy Silverman loves learning about Ancient Egypt and can't waitto see real mummies. At the museum, Happy leans as close to themummy display as he possibly can-and something strange happens. His head spins and he hears an unfamiliar voice ringing insidehis mind. The mummy is inside Happy's brain and needs his help-orelse!

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisAs the giant Idris travels across Wales on a quest to collect stories we meet a vengeful house goblin, a ghost that steals life, dwarves living beneath a garden, a tea party of lady ghosts and many other fascinating and devious fairy folk, reimagined from Welsh legend.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn edge-of-your-seat adventure packed full of puzzles, spooks and mystery! Amity has run off into Badwell Woods. Her brother Claude goes after her, only to discover his little sister’s scarf dangling near a house in the trees. Has she gone inside? He enters, not expecting a three storey-building with NO stairs. And a party laid out when there’s nobody else around. Only when the front door locks behind him does he realize it’s a housetrap. And they’ve been caught . . . ‘GLORIOUSLY SPOOKY AND UTTERLY SPLENDID.’ HANA TOOKE, author of The Unadoptables A fabulous twist on a timeless haunted house adventure from the acclaimed author of the Milton the Mighty series Scooby-Doo meets The Mysterious Benedict Society via Escape Room Full of friendship, teamwork and logic versus instinct – all wrapped up in a book with thrills, heart and bags of atmosphere Perfect for readers aged 9 and up PRAISE FOR MILTON THE MIGHTY: '[The] first book in a fantastic new series from Emma Read' THE TIMES 'A charming and thoughtful read' THE SCOTSMAN

Read more less

Book SynopsisA feminist YA horror-thriller-romance retelling of The Picture of Dorian Gray by the TikTok sensation and author of The Society for Soulless GirlsPenny Paxton is the daughter of an icon. Her supermodel mother has legions of adoring fans around the world, and Penny is ready to begin her journey to international adoration, starting with joining the elite Dorian Drama School.When Penny's new mentor offers her an opportunity she cannot refuse, to have a portrait painted by a mysterious artist who can grant immortal beauty to all his subjects, Penny happily follows in the footsteps of Dorian's most glittering alumni, knowing that stardom is sure to soon be hers.But when her trusted mentor is found murdered, Penny realises she's made a terrible mistake a sinister someone is using the uncanny portraits to kill off the subjects one by one. As more perfectly beautiful students start to fall, Penny knows her time is running out . . .A seductive and searing exploration of beauty, identity, and wTrade ReviewA contemporary reworking of The Picture of Dorian Gray, this book shines a light on beauty standards and the pursuit of perfection.- The Observer “A haunting, emotional and sapphic retelling, one which reels you in and doesn’t let go.” – Paper Lanterns Praise for The Society for Soulless Girls ’A twisty, sexy, smart haunting of a book, full of eloquent rage' Kiran Millwood-Hargrave ‘An intimate exploration of women’s anger, bladed with mystery and sapphic desire. Laura Steven has cut a modern Gothic gem, leaving room for glints of her trademark humour’ – Samantha Shannon ‘A fast-paced feminist horror, that manages to be oh-so-romantic and oh-so-haunting all at once’ – Alexandra Christo, bestselling author of TO KILL A KINGDOM ‘As seductive as it is sinister’ – Kate Dunn ‘Dark, clever and filled to the brim with feminist rage, Steven has crafted the sapphic dark academia of dreams – and of nightmares’ – Francesca May

Read more less

Book SynopsisI absolutely loved this book! Genuinely chilling and a little bit gory such a fun read' Jennifer Killick, author of Crater Lake.The Nightmares of Finnegan Quick is the scary, gross-out kid''s adventure of your dreams, with charming characters and plenty of creepy monsters! Don''t sleep on this one.' - Trevor Henderson, creator of Siren Head and author of ScarewavesBy night, Finn has horrible nightmares. By day, they come TRUE! A gripping horror story for readers of 10 and over, by Laugh Out Loud Book Award winner Larry Hayes.Finnegan Quick is haunted by nightmares. They're so bad, he's terrified of going to sleep. Because Finn's dreams change the waking world too. He's already lost his mum, his dad, his dog, even his shadow. And now they're coming for his gran, the only family he's got left.Then a mysterious girl starts appearing in his dreams, helping Finn fight back against the creatures in his nightly adventures. On the first day of the new term, she turns up at school, right there in real life, in the lunch queue!Cass tells Finn that she has come to solve the mystery of Finn's missing parents. Together with Finn's geeky best friend Squid, they travel through the nightmare world, battling goblins, ghosts and zombies. Finn, Cass and Squid are a sparky, wise-cracking trio, but even together, can they prove to be a match for the creatures of the night?If Finnegan Quick is to save the people he cares about most, he has to remember the lesson his gran has been teaching him all his life. He must learn to face his fears or be destroyed by them!Stuffed full of awesome adventure and superior supernatural chills'' Keith Gray, author of The Climbers and Creepers

Read more less