Children’s / Teenage fiction: Horror and ghost stories

Book SynopsisCatlin has already fallen foul of one such creature - a dark, vicious predator who almost killed her - and only Madeline giving up a part of her own soul was able to bring Catlin back from the brink of death. Now, the girls are making their strange new lives: Catlin, haunted by what happened to her, is isolated and bereft;Trade ReviewDeirdre Sullivan handles darkness in a way that instills addictive dread, but also, somehow, hope. She is a natural successor to Angela Carter - and Perfectly Preventable Deaths, a tale of rural horror, family and peril, is the Irish Gothic we deserve. -- Sarah Maria Griffin, author of SPARE AND FOUND PARTSThis is the novel the recent Sabrina reboot wishes it could be - a thrilling, eerie exploration of sisterhood, first love and dark powers hiding out of sight. Perfectly Preventable Deaths lures you in with wit and compassion before hitting you with horror and twists worthy of Stephen King or Shirley Jackson. Nobody writes teenagers or witches like Deirdre Sullivan, and Perfectly Preventable Deaths is her best novel yet. * Dave Rudden, author of KNIGHTS OF THE BORROWED DARK *I am completely smitten with Madeline's voice and this witty, wise and weird depiction of a quiet, strange village where neither girls nor small creatures are safe from predators. Deirdre Sullivan has crafted a tale that is both achingly tender and unsettlingly creepy, a world where magic and love have tremendous power and devastating consequences. * Claire Hennessy, author of NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD *Sullivan has an eye for the uncanny, a taste for the macabre, and a gift for beautiful prose. Perfectly Preventable Deaths is her best book yet. * Louise O'Neill *This intoxicating, skilfully crafted novel laced with sisterhood, first love and witchcraft is sure to entice fans of Angela Carter or Melissa Albert's The Hazel Wood. * The Bookseller, Editor’s Choice *This book, this book. Deirdre's writing is a drug, her characters crackle and the magic is so tactile you can feel rough bark and leaves under your fingers. I swallowed this whole. * Moira Fowley-Doyle, author of SPELLBOOK OF THE LOST AND FOUND *A dark, surreal and chilling slow-burner that'll crawl under your skin and make you wish for more * Culture Fly, Best Summer Reads *Sullivan's prose bewitches in a tale featuring dark magic, supernatural predators and a plot worthy of Angela Carter * Observer *I've wanted to read Perfectly Preventable Deaths by Deirdre Sullivan ever since I first heard about it, in a tweet about three witchy, Irish books coming out this year (including Other Words for Smoke by Sarah Maria Griffin and All the Bad Apples by Moïra Fowley Doyle). And it was so, so good!Madeleine and her twin sister, Catlin, are moving with their mum to their new step-dad Brian's hometown of Ballyfrann. A town that is known for missing girls, and found body part in the mountains. To the castle - an actual castle - Brian's father built, and where Brian's aunt Mamó also lives - a surly woman who constantly glares at them and doesn't seem to want them around. It's a small town where everyone seems to know everyone, but no-one really seems all that interested in getting to know them. Except for Lon, an older boy of 19 or 20, who has taken a keen interest in Catlin - who's interest is very much returned. It doesn't take long for Catlin to become infatuated with him, but Maddie has felt uneasy about him since they met. Maddie herself is feeling quite strange; there's some instinct in her that tells her things aren't right. She has a compulsion to gather things she believes will protect her family; salt, sage, berries. But she's also discovering her own sexuality when she meets fellow new-comer to Ballyfrann, Oona. As Catlin gets more and more entangled with the controlling Lon, Maddie's unease grows. But when the two stumble across the dead body of a fox in the woods that has clearly been sacrificed, and get Mamó for help, they realise there is definitely something strange about this town. Maddie discovers magic lives in the world, that Mamó is a witch and she might be, too. Mamó offers Maddie the opportunity to be her apprentice, but it would mean giving up on all her plans for the future, and embrace a part of herself that she's been made to feel ashamed of. But when Catlin's life is in danger, Maddie will do anything to try to save her.At it's heart, Perfectly Preventable Deaths is a story about twin sisters and their bond. I absolutely loved Maddie and Catlin, and their relationship. Catlin is confident and sure of herself, without being arrogant, which I don't really think we see much of in YA? She's an extrovert, while Maddie is an introvert, with pretty low self-esteem. They're a bit like chalk and cheese, but they love each other. They bounce off each other so well, and they're just so funny. I loved them! And their bond was just so beautiful. Until Lon gets his claws into Catlin, she becomes infatuated, and practically addicted to him, and everything else seems to fade. Maddie really struggles with the distance growing between them, especially as she doesn't trust or like Lon, and is certain that he's no good. It was heartbreaking, but it was just wonderful seeing how much Maddie cared about her sister, but wasn't quite sure what the right thing to do was.Perfectly Preventable Deaths is a slow burner of a novel. Not a huge deal happens at first, but that's mainly because Ballyfrann is a town full of secrets, and they're kept under lock and key for the most part. There's a pervasive sense of something not being quite right - a strangeness to the town - but for a fair while, you can't put your finger on it. A lot of the story is build-up and introspection, though it's far from boring, because there are hints throughout of something, but you just don't know what. There's the castle with it's strange secret passages, the fear and respect Brian's not-so-nice father inspired. How everyone seems to be wary of Lon, but won't say why, or do anything about it. Something is going on, and there's a definite atmosphere. And finding the sacrificed fox scares the crap out of Maddie and Catlin. Who would do that? Why would they do that? Who or what are they sacrificing it to? And, also, what happened to the missing girls, that only a few body parts were ever found? What is going on here? The more uneasy Maddie feels, the more she gathers and hides things around the house, to keep them safe - a compulsion her mum tries again and again to stamp out of her, because "this isn't normal behaviour." Mamó will only say so much, saying Maddie doesn't need to know more yet, but also refuses to answer some questions unless Maddie becomes her apprentice.But the pace is dialled right up for the last third of the novel, and oh my god, it was just brilliant! It's sinister and malevolent, and frankly, quite messed up. And I can't talk about it without spoiling it! I do wish that Maddie was at a particular place at a certain point in the book, because I would have liked to have seen what happened first hand, but mate, it blew my mind. Not all questions are answered, and you are left with even more - especially with the epilogue!I have thoughts and I have theories, and I need answers! Perfectly Preventable Deaths feels very much like a first book in a series, with all the build up, and all the left over questions, and I honestly can't see how this could be a standalone with that epilogue. I need to know what happens next, I need all my answers, and I need to know if my theories about the epilogue are correct, because if they are... well. I am just not ok, ok? I'm not. This story may have a conclusion, but there is so much more going on, and I think danger is practically next-year-or-so imminent! And I think Ballyfrann and it's history is seriously, possibly, really, really screwy, especially if people are perhaps purposely overlooking things, and... I am just extremely worried for Maddie, Catlin and their mum right now, and I think they need to get out of Ballyfrann pronto! I just need a sequel! But I can't find any info that says it is or not.As you can probably guess, I adored Perfectly Preventable Deaths, and highly recommend it! It's such a mysterious, magical thriller, and I am just hooked. Do not sleep on this one!Thank you to Hot Key Books for the proof. * Onceuponabookcase *Perfectly Preventable Deaths is wince-inducingly gruesome, with another properly evil villain waiting to do some unspeakable things to the unwary, but it's also frequently laugh-out-loud funny. Magic comes with a price but it's one that's worth paying nonetheless. * SciFi Now *The sinister, mysterious story continues in this sequel book, it's not as gory as Perfectly Preventable Deaths but it's just as compelling. This author knows how to keep her audience engaged until the very last page...Precious Catastrophe begins a year after the tragic, macabre events of Perfectly Preventable Deaths and the twins Maddy and Caitlin are still coming to terms with the consequences of those events. Maddy knows that she has to keep a look out for her sister, look for signs that she didn't completely come back from the dead but Caitlin will not confide in her. She prefers to pray to the wooden statue of Mary in the local church, but are her prayers as innocent as Caitlin believes? Their stepfather Brian keeps going away on unexplained trips, what is he up to? Their mother is quiet and not her usual self, is she coping? The secrets and lies that surround this town are on the verge of destroying the relationship between these girls; can they find their way back?This sequel is suitable for the 13+ confident reader. It does have its sinister moments of abuse, possession, witchcraft and animal abuse but not in the same depth as the first book. It also has some very dark humour moments, that at times weaken the plot. This sequel book could be read as a stand alone as the author provides a back story along the way to fill in any gaps. A great book for book clubs as there are many avenues for discussion. Another good read that completes the story for the dark Halloween season.432 pages / Ages 13+ / Reviewed by Linda Brown, school librarianSuggested Reading Age 14+ -- Linda * Reading Zone *Precious Catastrophe is an amazingly spellbinding book containing many dark secrets and happenings. Following on from Perfectly Preventable Deaths (the first novel in the series), we see events pick up a year on from the last time we saw Maddy and Catlin. Told from the dual perspectives of the twin sisters, we see how the toll of events from a year ago affect their lives in the present.Maddy is becoming more proficient in her witchcraft under the tutelage of Mamo, although this is at the cost of seeing her friends and family. Meanwhile, Catlin turns to religion and prayer in order to find some comfort and solace following major trauma. When Catlin's prayers and trust are misplaced and she becomes consumed by an evil spirit, as well as their step-father Brian not being what he seems, the girls must work together to fight for their lives. They discover even more secrets and ghostly goings-on along the way.This is a fantastically compelling book, which although second in a series could easily be read as a stand-alone. I would recommend the book for older readers only due to the many dark and traumatic themes.432 pages / Reviewed by Katrina Waldron, school librarianSuggested Reading Age 14+ -- Katrina * Reading Zone *Deirdre Sullivan's Perfectly Preventable Deaths was a delightfully macabre gothic fantasy tale of witchcraft, love, sisterhood and sacrifice. The sequel, Precious Catastrophe, takes readers back to the isolated village of Ballyfran, which acts as a magnet for people who are not quite human. Sisters Catlin and Madeline are trying to move on with their lives after the events of the first book, which saw Maddy give up a part of her soul to save her sister. But with Catlin still haunted by what happened to her and Maddy trying to master the ancient magics, it's not long before they come up against another evil that's haunting their hometown. This book - with its witchy vibes and supernatural sister protagonists - was made to be read during spooky season when the dark makes anything and everything seem possible. (30 September, Hot Key Books) * Culture Fly *'Older teens and young adults with a taste for the macabre will love Deirdre Sullivan's new novel, Precious Catastrophe (Hot Key Books), the sequel to Perfectly Preventable Deaths. Sisters Catlin and Madeline are back (one of them back from the dead) but once again all is not well in the strange village of Ballyfran. Deliciously dark and sinister, perfect for the witching season. Age 15+' -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *5 Reasons Precious Catastrophe Is The Creepy Read You Need In Your Life * United by Pop *Best books for Christmas 2021: Fiction, biography, sport and children's books Precious Catastrophe by Deirdre Sullivan (Hot Key Books, £7.99). The second in the Perfectly Preventable Deaths series, this supernatural mystery revisits twins Caitlin and Madeline, whose lives have been changed forever by the horrors they've encountered. * Irish Times *Dark magic, on the other hand, swirls around Deirdre Sullivan's Precious Catastrophe (Hot Key Books, £7.99) as we return to the Irish hellmouth of Ballyfrann, moving between twins Maddy (apprenticed to an old witch) and Catlin (causing havoc, as usual, and also possibly being possessed) as they uncover more of the town's unsettling secrets. Sullivan's ear for Hiberno-English and attentiveness to teenage worries makes this gorgeous horror tale all the more believable, and the plot skilfully builds on what's gone before without ever repeating or recanting it. This is a perfect Halloween read. -- Claire Hennessey * Irish Times *In the second book in the young adult series from Deirdre Sullivan, Precious Catastrophe, the girls have uncovered the secrets of the town and are making strange new lives. While Maddie practises ancient magic she keeps watch on her sister, who is haunted by the events of the first book. * Big Issue North *

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Book SynopsisGet ready for another heart-racing, twist-filled thriller from the #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author NATASHA PRESTON. CAN THE PAST HAUNT THE PRESENT?Penny's trying to forget about her ex, Nash.

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Book SynopsisThe Woods are Always Watching by Stephanie Perkins is an edge-of-your-seat, nerve-wrangling thriller – full of breathtaking action and twists you'll never see coming.If you go down to the woods today . . . Two girls go backpacking in the woods. Things go very wrong.And, then, their paths collide with a serial killer . . .

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Book SynopsisTwin brothers discover their new home is also a portal to a parallel dimension in this spine-chilling middle-grade adventure, perfect for fans of The Mysterious Benedict Society--now available in paperback! Twelve-year-old twins Colm and Mal might look identical, but they’re different in just about every other way. The one thing they can agree on is that neither brother wants to move to Chicago for a fresh start with their mom two years after their dad’s death. The boys soon discover that their new apartment building, Brunhild Tower, is full of strange quirks: a mysterious Princess who warns them not to wander the building at midday, eerie sounds coming from the walls, and an elevator that’s missing a button for the thirteenth floor. Then one afternoon, that button appears, catapulting the brothers and their inquisitive new neighbor, Tamika, into a parallel dimension and a twin building stuck in time, where the spirits of all the former residents of Brunhild Tower live on, trapped by an ancient curse. Now, Colm, Mal, and Tamika must race against time to solve the mystery of the phantom tower—or risk spending an eternity as ghosts themselves. 

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Book Synopsis"Ghost story, love story, and mystery in equal measure, Helene Dunbar's Prelude for Lost Souls is filled with unforgettable characters who reveal the many ways a life can be haunted. Perfect for fans of The Raven Boys."-Lisa Maxwell, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Magician seriesFrom acclaimed author Helene Dunbar comes the start of a spellbinding young adult series about a small town filled with spiritualists and one boy who wants out, perfect for readers who want teen ghost books and fans of Maggie Stiefvater, Maureen Johnson, and Nova Ren Suma.In the town of St. Hilaire, most make their living by talking to the dead. In the summer, the town gates open to tourists seeking answers while all activity is controlled by The Guild, a sinister ruling body that sees everything.Dec Hampton has lived there his entire life, but ever since his parents died, he's been done with it. He knows he has to leave before anyone has a chance to stop him.His best friend Russ won't be surprised when Dec leaves-but he will be heartbroken. Russ is a good medium, maybe even a great one. He's made sacrifices for his gift and will do whatever he can to gain entry to The Guild, even embracing dark forces and contacting the most elusive ghost in town.But when the train of Annie Krylova, the piano prodigy whose music has been Dec's main source of solace, breaks down outside of town, it sets off an unexpected chain of events. And in St. Hilaire, there are no such things as coincidences.Perfect for readers looking for:ghost town booksyoung adult lgbt booksatmospheric storiesPraise for Prelude for Lost Souls:"Dunbar invokes small-town intrigue and plentiful atmosphere with this haunting, romantic tale."-Publishers Weekly"A quietly compelling story."-Kirkus Reviews"Mesmerizing and haunting, Dunbar invites readers into a world of family secrets, anxious ghosts and a society's ruthless grasp for power that will leave you wanting more."-The Nerd DailyAlso by Helene Dunbar:We Are Lost and Found

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Book SynopsisFrom USA Today bestselling horror/thriller author Darcy Coates comes the chilling legend of a monster no one can escape.DON'T WALK ALONE, OR THE STITCHER WILL FIND YOU.Abby Ward lives in a town haunted by disappearances. People vanish, and when they're found, their bodies have been dismembered and sewn back together in unnatural ways. But is it the work of a human killer...or something far darker?DON'T STAY OUT LATE, OR THE STITCHER WILL TAKE YOU.She and her younger sister live by a strict set of rules designed to keep them safe-which is why it's such a shock when Hope is taken. Desperate to get her back, Abby tells the police everything she knows, but they claim their hands are tied.DON'T CLOSE YOUR EYES, OR THE STITCHER WILL REMAKE YOU.With every hour precious, Abby and her friends are caught in a desperate game of cat and mouse. They have to get Hope back. Quickly. Before too much of her is cut away. And before everything they care about is swallowed up by the darkness waiting in the tunnels beneath the home they thought they knew.Chilling Reads by Darcy Coates:The Haunting of Ashburn HouseThe Haunting of Blackwood HouseVoices in the SnowThe Whispering DeadFrom BelowGallows HillTrade ReviewDarcy Coates’ latest young adult horror is chilling and creepy to the extreme. * Culturefly *

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Book SynopsisThe Spook's Secret is the third book in Joseph Delaney's terrifying Wardstone Chronicles – over 3 million copies sold worldwide!'It's going to be a long, hard, cruel winter and there couldn't be a worse place to spend it.'As the nights draw in the Spook decides to travel to his winter house. His apprentice, Tom, hates the desolate place. There are feral witches in the cellar, menacing creatures stirring on the nearby moors and a sinister stranger threatening Tom's master. Is the Spook's past catching up with him? And what dangers will Tom face if his master's secrets are revealed?Trade ReviewIdeal for the reader who has outgrown Harry Potter. Be warned, these books are seriously scary . . . Beautifully produced and consistently surprising, the weird and wonderful Wardstone Chronicles are an annual treat * The Times *The spine-chilling escapades of the Spook and his apprentice continue apace * Waterstone's Books Quarterly *This is terrific writing coupled with such an exciting and frightening storyline of good versus evil that you really will be hanging on to the bedcovers while reading it * My Child *

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Book SynopsisThe Spook's Nightmare is the seventh book in Joseph Delaney's terrifying Wardstone Chronicles – over 3 million copies sold worldwide!'I stood there, terrified. My master was about to die.'The County is facing dark times, and the Spook is being haunted by terrifying dreams. With his precious library burned to the ground and his old enemy, Bony Lizzie, free once again, things are falling apart. As nightmares turn real, the Spook's powers seem to be waning just when he needs them the most. Can Tom, the Spook's apprentice, face the dark alone?Trade ReviewDelaney's mastery of suspense will grip even reluctant readers with his dramatic, beautifully paced prose. -- Amanda Craig * The Times *. . . ideal for the reader who has outgrown Harry Potter. Be warned, these books are seriously scary . . . Beautifully produced and consistently surprising the weird and wonderful Wardstone Chronicles are an annual treat. * Amanda Craig, The Times *Wonderfully dark * The Bookseller *Another breathless thriller from the genius of magic and mayhem! * Pam Norfolk, Lancashire Evening Post *Fans of Joseph Delaney's fantastic Wardstone Chronicles will need no urging to buy the latest instalment... Gripping, moving and terrifying for anyone of 10+. * Amanda Craig, The Times *

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Book SynopsisThe Spook's Destiny is the eighth book in Joseph Delaney's terrifying Wardstone Chronicles – over 3 million copies sold worldwide!'You belong to the blade now. You'll belong to it until the day you die . . .'Tom, the Spook's Apprentice, has travelled to Ireland, where he must tackle a group of evil mages. His dangerous mission leads him to the Destiny Blade - a sword with a dark side, and a thirst for blood. Could this new weapon give him a fighting chance against the Fiend? And dare he accept the help of Grimalkin, the terrifying witch assassin?Trade ReviewDelaney's mastery of suspense will grip even reluctant readers with his dramatic, beautifully paced prose... Unlike the vampires and so forth, both these novels carry a genuine graveyard chill. Huge fun, and deliciously shivery. * The Times *. . . ideal for the reader who has outgrown Harry Potter. Be warned, these books are seriously scary . . . Beautifully produced and consistently surprising the weird and wonderful Wardstone Chronicles are an annual treat. -- Amanda Craig * The Times *Christmas traditions have long included the telling of grisly tales and THE SPOOK'S BESTIARY by Joseph Delaney fits the bill. Adding value and context to the popular series, the illustrations and design of this book are stunning. It is a brooding and eerie collection of stories for reading in one sitting or dipping into. -- Jake Hope * Bookseller 2010 Booksellers' Choice *Wonderfully dark * The Bookseller *Another breathless thriller from the genius of magic and mayhem! -- Pam Norfolk * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisEleven-year-old Bella Bright has just moved into Darkling House in Castleton. On her first day at her new school, she is spotted by a pair of manipulative mean girls, Skylar and Regan. They push her into inviting them to a Halloween sleepover. Another much friendlier girl, Lex, comes to Bella's rescue and offers to join the sleepover to support Bella, who is delighted to be making a real friend.On Halloween night, things start getting spooky for the four girls, when the huge front door appears to shut itself, and their mobile phones lose signal. They decide to order pizza using the landline, but a hair-raising whisper comes down the line.Skylar suggests they play hide and seek, but as she utters the words, the house appears to wobble and they discover all the exits are impossibly locked. Bella searches the manor and a ghostly teenage girl appears in front of her. She reveals herself to be Alice, a young girl who died in the house 150 years ago during a game of hide and seek gone terribly wrong. She has hidden Bella's three friends, and gives Bella a rhyming clue to find them in the enormous and cavernous house.Bella has until midnight. After that, Alice will get to keep the girls as her playmates for ever...

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Book SynopsisNew Orleans, 1995 Mina's having a hell of a family reunion.After the death and chaos of Halloween, Mina and the gang are looking forward to their road trip to Roswell, New Mexico, where they are hoping to be thrilled by the alien stories and have some quiet time with Mina's parents. However, their trip ends abruptly and before they know it, they are back in New Orleans. Instead of enjoying the fall celebrations and renovating the mansion, they find themselves investigating a serial killer who claims to be a real vampire in disturbing letters to the press.As the city is gripped by fear, a group of believers is planning to disrupt the fragile balance between the humans and the supernatural creatures hiding in the shadows. This threatens the peace that Mina and her friends have been working so hard at maintaining.Caught between investigating the killer and trying to stop the group's destructive plans, Mina's third mystery might be her last . . .''I could not

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Book SynopsisWhen Cass's family heads off to Edinburgh, Cass meets a girl whoshares her gift of entering the world of the spirits. Cass stillhas a lot to learn about the Veil - and herself. And fast... A thrillingly spooky and action-packed tale of hauntings, history,mystery, and the bond between friends (even if that friend is aghost...)

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Book SynopsisIt’s all fun and games until a prank goes fatally wrong in this spine-tingling young adult thriller from Goosebumps author R.L. Stine.Diane and her friends have been sneaking out every night to play pranks while Fear Street sleeps. She loves breaking the rules, just a little, and pushing the limits of what they can get away with. Not to mention that whatever they get up to in the night is all the town can talk about the next day. No one likes the rush of a good practical joke more than Diane’s boyfriend, Lenny, who has masterminded some of their best work. But when he sets his sights on one of the most hated teachers at their school, the group finally goes too far…and the consequences are deadly. And on Fear Street, even death can’t stop people from getting their revenge.

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Book SynopsisOn Bird Rock, gannets circle and thick mist surrounds the lighthouse at its centre, hiding the secrets of a tragic past within … From the second they set foot on the island to join their dad and his new family, Jess and Rosie feel that something’s wrong. Nightmares haunt their dreams and there seems to be someone, or something, else with them in the lighthouse – their home for the summer. Counting down the days until they can leave, Jess and Rosie decide to investigate. But when Rosie disappears, the countdown takes on a new meaning. Especially when no one but Jess remembers Rosie at all… Alex Bell’s chilling novel is part of the Red Eye series, perfect for fans of Juno Dawson’s SAY HER NAME and Kat Ellis’s HARROW LAKE.

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Book SynopsisThe Hunted is Charlie Higson''s sixth terrifying installment in the thrilling The Enemy series The sickness struck everyone over fourteen.First it twisted their minds.Next it ravaged their bodies.Now they roam the streets -Crazed and hungryThe others had promised that the countryside would be safer than the city. They were wrong. Now Ella''s all-alone except for her silent rescuer, Scarface - and she''s not even sure if he''s a kid or a grown-up.Back in London, Ed''s determined to find her. But getting out of town''s never been more dangerous- because coming in the other direction is every SICKO in the country. It''s like they''re being called towards the capital and nothing is going to stop them . . .In the penultimate book in The Enemy series, the survivors'' stories cross with chilling consequences.

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Book SynopsisIn this hilarious and heartwarming sequel to the bestselling and critically acclaimed graphic novel, The Okay Witch, half-witch Moth Hush uses magic to boost her confidence with disastrous results—perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Molly Ostertag!Moth Hush is starting to settle into her newfound witch heritage and powers, but life at school continues to be rough. Even her best friend, Charlie, doesn’t entirely understand what it’s like for her to always be the one who gets mocked, and things only get worse when Moth’s mom starts dating one of the dorkiest teachers in the school! Then Moth gets hold of a mysterious charm that can unleash another version of herself—one who is confident, cool, and extremely popular. What could possibly go wrong?

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Book SynopsisTyler Morant and his friends are seeing a hot new video-game-turned-movie, Mega Mightees. Suddenly one of the Mega Mightees leaps off the screen, headed right for the kids. As more characters come to life, the battle proves too much for the Gamer alone. How will the Gamer defeat these mighty enemies?

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Book SynopsisThe third beastly book in the deliciously gruesome and hilarious series by Jack Meggitt-Phillips, perfect for little beasts aged 8-12.''Reads like a modern classic. Sharp, funny, original I thought this was brilliant'', Sam Copeland, bestselling author of Charlie Changes into a Chicken on The Beast and the BethanyThe beast, who has tried to eat Bethany twice and controlled Ebenezer Tweezer for 511 years, is now in prison.Even better, it seems to have lost its despicable mind and is pinky-winky promising to be a do-gooding beast, vomit out helpful gifts, and be besties with Bethany and Ebenezer.There's really no sign of the old beast at all any more, as long as you don't count that hungry belly which still needs feedingOutrageously funny and deliciously dark, this series is perfect for readers aged 8-12 and fans of Roald Dahl and Lemony SnicketTrade Review PRAISE FOR THE SERIES 'Witty and entertaining', The Sunday Times 'Reads like a modern classic. Sharp, funny, original – I thought this was brilliant', Sam Copeland, bestselling author of Charlie Changes into a Chicken 'What a FEAST! A funny and (bone) cracking good read', Michelle Harrison, bestselling author of A Pinch of Magic ‘A devilishly delicious delight', iNews ‘Fans of Despicable Me and A Series of Unfortunate Events will love this brand-new series’ – funkidslive.com "Now THAT was a rollercoaster of a book, and totally NOT what I expected in all the best ways! I flippin’ LOVED this cracking tale of absolute chaos, comedy and commotion. The beast couldn’t be on better form, and I can’t wait to read more of its misadventures with Git-face, I mean, Ebenezer and Bethany. And that epilogue . . . now I’m HUNGRY for the next juicy-woosie tale of the reluctant do-gooder, the ex-prankster and the 511 year old man in his favourite waistcoat!" Laura Ellen Anderson ‘Writing one classic would be enough for most authors. Two is a delightful bonus. Writing three is just showing off. Jack Meggitt-Phillips is such a gitface. Annoyingly, Battle Of The Beast might even be the best of the lot . . .’ Ian Mark ‘I flipping loved it. Mischievous, wildly imaginative and full of characters you really care about. The ending has a brilliant twist and now I desperately want to eat an egg containing a blueberry cheesecake.’ Jenny McLachlan

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Book SynopsisEoin Madden is captain of the Junior Cup team, training with Leinster and aiming for Ireland's Under 16 World Cup team. He also has to deal with grumpy friends, teachers piling on the homework - AND a ghost on a mission that goes back to the very origins of the game of rugby. Books, crooks and rucks - it's all to play for this term!

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Book SynopsisRebecca Strand was just sixteen when she and her father fell to their deaths from the top of the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse in 1839. Just how they fell—or were they pushed?—remains a mystery. And their ghosts haunt the lighthouse to this day ...Gabe tells this story every day when he gives the ghost tour on Toronto Island. He tries to make it scary enough to satisfy the tourists, but he doesn’t actually believe in ghosts — until he finds himself face to face with Rebecca Strand. The true story of her death is far more terrifying than any ghost tale Gabe has told. Rebecca reveals that her father was a member of the Order, a secret society devoted to protecting the world from 'the wakeful and wicked dead' — malevolent spirits like Viker, the ghost responsible for their deaths. But the Order has disappeared, and Viker’s ghost is growing ever stronger. Now Gabe and his friends must find a way to stop Viker before they all become lost souls ... A fresh—and very scary—take on the ghost story from Kenneth Oppel.Trade ReviewWith a high-stakes premise, harrowing growing pains and moments as chilling as midnight ocean spray, Oppel plays his readers' nerves like an out-of-tune harp * New York Times *Dark, complex, unsettling. * Daily Mail *A ghost story like no other ... masterful storytelling * Clare Povey, author *Pacey and thrilling, with one of the best opening chapters I have ever read. * Charlotte Eyre, The Bookseller *A spooktacular story that’s surprisingly insightful * Kirkus *This book has everything ... action, friendship, innocent first love (boy meets ghost), mystery solving, sense of place and a spine tingling ghost story! * Veronica Price, Vs View from the Bookshelves blog *Super dialogue and suspenseful action. My favourite read of the year. * Angela Ahn *

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Book Synopsis A spooky, cosy romance to curl up in front of the fire with – perfect for fans of Heartstopper and Gilmore Girls. 'Perfect for Heartstopper fans, this cute and spooky ghost story is deliciously romantic and it has the best characters. I loved it!' AMY MCCAW, AUTHOR OF MINA AND THE UNDEAD 'A thoroughly enjoyable queer teen romance filled with mystery, Halloween fun, and tender moments.' THE SUN Sal hates standing out. But he lives in a haunted house – and everybody knows it. His oldest friend, Dirk, tries to help ... but he wants to stay popular, and Sal isn’t helping. Elsie was popular – until recently. Now she’s on the outcast’s table too ... and she doesn’t want to talk about it. Then there's the new boy, Pax, who won't leave Sal alone. His idea of a good time is hanging out in graveyards. And, for some reason, Sal just can’t stay away. Meet The Other Ones. Can they banish their ghosts together? A cosy, contemporary gay romance and ghost story with spooky Gilmore Girls vibes Winner of the Times/Chicken House Chairman’s Choice Prize, 2020 An LGBTQ+ romance between two very different boys, who readers will quickly root for and grow to love For fans of Heartstopper - with a spooky twist

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Book SynopsisA #1 New York Times bestseller! In this spine-chilling gothic murder mystery set in gritty Victorian-era London, an intrepid society girl finds herself inescapably embroiled in the investigation of a ghastly serial killer known as Jack the Ripper.

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Book Synopsis‘It’s a dangerous job, but someone has to do it.’For years, the local Spook kept the county safe from evil. But now his time has ended, and there is only one boy who can take over – Thomas Ward, barely more than a child himself. Now he too must take on an apprentice, a girl called Jenny who is untested but willing to be trained in the dangerous life of a Spook.When girls start dying in mysterious circumstances, they soon find themselves on the path of a terrifying and deadly beast. Monstrous assassins are loose in the County, and far to the north, a new darkness is rising that threatens to engulf the whole world. Do Tom and Jenny stand a chance against the might of the Kobalos?The first terrifying tale in the Starblade Chronicles, from the bestselling author of The Spook’s ApprenticeTrade ReviewThe ending will shock all Spook’s fans and leave them desperate for the next in this new series -- Andrea Reece * lovereading4kids.co.uk *A solid, suspenseful, and spooky adventure with a fiendish cliffhanger * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisThe second book in the series following on from the American classic The House With a Clock in Its Walls, now a major motion picture from Steven Spielberg's Amblin Entertainment, starring Cate Blanchett, Jack Black and Kyle MacLachlanSettled into his new life, Lewis seems content living with his magical Uncle Jonathan and neighbour Mrs Zimmermann. He even has a new best friend, Rose Rita, who loves to play sport, build Roman ship models and play with magic - all the things Lewis loves to do too!After discovering Grandpa Barnavelt's 1859 lucky coin, Lewis is certain that it is magical, so he puts it to the test - he recites one of Mrs Zimmermann's spells to awaken its magic. Only Lewis hasn't awakened a good sort of magic. As he wears the coin around his neck, sinister things start to happen. Strange letters addressed to Lewis arrive at midnight, a dark shadowy figure begins to follow him in town and something seems to be inside his body controlling his actions.As the figure in the shadows appears more and more, Lewis is possessed by its power, unable to free himself. Has Lewis awakened a force beyond his control? And can Uncle Jonathan, Mrs Zimmermann and Rose Rita make it in time to rescue Lewis?

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Book SynopsisA second novel from the bestselling author of Branford Boase-shortlisted and Carnegie-nominated Witch. An engrossing story of fathers and sons, death and grief, and unexpected bonds, new and old, forged by dark and benign magic. When Sam, grieving the death of his father, finds a silver-flecked stone, ice-cold to the touch, strange and eerie things begin to happen. Myth, legend, magic and witchcraft mingle on the ancient hillside where the chalk white horse has galloped for centuries. Ravens wheel. Wolves prowl. As Halloween draws close, witches dance. Odin gathers brave, fallen warriors to his side. Only the mysterious new girl, Oona, can heal Sam's heart, revealing tarot secrets with her bewitching ways. Reviews for Witch: 'A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism' Anthony McGowan, author of Carnegie-winning Lark 'There is real magic here... Perfect reading for a dark, stormy night' Irish Times WeekendTrade ReviewSuch a tour de force opening of emotions, followed by a mix of mythical & mystical. Don't often read YA but enjoyed this! -- Hannah Gold, Waterstones Book Prize 2022 WinnerAn absolute corker. I read this in a single sitting. Joyful and heartbreaking, beautiful and eerie. If you loved Witch... You'll love this too -- Liz Hyder, author of The GiftsFull of myth and magic * The Bookseller *As All Hallows' Eve approaches, a book of myth, legend, witchcraft and magic is the perfect novel to get cosy with. Stone by Finbar Hawkins [...] provides all that and more * Scotsman *A beautiful story about the love between a father and son, and how we can find comfort and support in unexpected places when everything feels lost * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisThis spine-tingling collection of spooky stories features over 20 eerie tales from across the globe. Discover bewitching retellings of ghost- and monster-filled myths regaled with ghoulish relish and journey continent-by-continent through this haunting book. With shocks and twists like you wouldn’t believe - are you brave enough to read them all?Packed with mind-boggling mysteries, real unexplained enigmas and traditional stories that are sure to send shivers down your spine, Spooky Stories of the World is the ultimate feast for Halloween-loving kids and readers in search of a fright. Meet vampires, werewolves and fearsome monsters that hide in the shadows in this one-of-a-kind round-the-world collection of hair-raising tales.Inside Spooky Stories of the World:- More than 20 fang-tastic stories from around the world featuring both traditional tales and unexplained mysteries from modern times- Arranged continent by continent with spooky illustrations, original artwork and additional creepy characters for readers to look out for on their travels- Chilling tales include: The Vampire Skeleton (Canada and USA), The Luz Mala (Argentina), The Basilisk of Vilnius (Lithuania), The Bite of the Queen Rat (UK), The Fox Sister (South Korea), The Ghost on Pinjarra Bridge (Australia), The Devouring Gourd (East Africa)Spooky Stories of the World is the much-anticipated follow-up to Myths and Legends of the World. Written by British-Guyanese author and professional storyteller Wendy Shearer, and beautifully illustrated by Teo Georgiey, this is the perfect book for curious kids in search of a creepy kick to their reading list and is probably best read with the lights left on... About Lonely Planet Kids: Lonely Planet Kids - an imprint of the world's leading travel authority Lonely Planet - published its first book in 2011. Over the past 45 years, Lonely Planet has grown a dedicated global community of travelers, many of whom are now sharing a passion for exploration with their children. Lonely Planet Kids educates and encourages young readers at home and in school to learn about the world with engaging books on culture, sociology, geography, nature, history, space and more. We want to inspire the next generation of global citizens and help kids and their parents to approach life in a way that makes every day an adventure. Come explore!

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Book SynopsisWhen Sir Charles Baskerville dies in mysterious circumstances, the world's greatest detective is called in to investigate. Sherlock Holmes must use all his powers of deduction if he is to solve the blood-curdling mystery of the terrifying Hound of the Baskervilles.

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Book SynopsisFog rolls into Tulsa, and with it comes Darkness. Zoey knows the Darkness means something is up, and it looks like something involves Neferet. But Neferet can't possibly have been freed, right? Meanwhile, Other Neferet arrives in Woodward Park to set this world's Neferet free from her grotto prison. Other Kevin and Other Stark are hot on their trail, but how can the new friends travel to this world without invoking Old Magick, and paying a costly – perhaps deadly – price? Faced with a deadly enemy, Zoey and the Nerd Herd will have to band together with the unlikeliest of allies. But will they be powerful enough to defeat her old nemesis? Or will both worlds be destroyed and claimed by Darkness? The thrilling conclusion to the House of Night Otherworld series from New York Times bestselling authors P.C. and Kristin Cast.

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Book SynopsisThe next thrilling and magical adventure set in the multi million copy bestselling world of The Spook''s Apprentice.Wulf has left behind his life in the monastery and is now the Apprentice to Spook Johnson, assisting him in protecting the County from denizens of the dark - which mainly involves Wulf acting as bait.But Wulf is captured by Hrothgar, a giant with abilities to conjure subservient creatures - or tulpas - from his imagination. And he strongly suspects that Wulf has these abilities too . . .Wulf begrudgingly begins training with his new master, but meanwhile, something dangerous is afoot in the County. Wulf''s old friends, Tom and Alice, have been imprisoned by an all-powerful witch and her brain sucking minions. And together with Tilda, Tom and Alice''s daughter, he needs to rescue them from Circe''s enchanted lair before it''s too late...Trade ReviewThe newest Delaney character returns to steal the limelight ... step forward Brother Wulf. * The Lancashire Post *

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Book SynopsisWulf must face his greatest enemy yet - and this time, he''s all alone . . .Wulf is at war - war against the Dark. As Pan''s soldier and champion, it''s his responsibility to fight for what is right. An early Winter has come to the County, threatening its people with starvation - but there is an even more dangerous foe to face. A demon is trying to become the next ruler of the dark. He has many names but one of them is Loki, the Trickster God. Loki has many, terrible powers - but his most deadly weapon is the one that controls all Wulf''s own power . . .Featuring fan-favourite characters Grimalkin, Thorne, Jenny and even Slither, Wulf''s War is sure to delight - and fright!

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Book SynopsisReturn to the World of Eragon with master storyteller Christopher Paolini in this stunning illustrated edition packed with full-colour paintings.Celebrate the worldwide fantasy phenomenon Eragon, the first book in the Inheritance Cycle, which has sold more than 40 million copies across the series.Prepare for the flight of a lifetime with Eragon as you''ve never seen him before in this dazzling oversized edition with brand-new full-colour illustrations throughout. This is the perfect must-have gift for both new and long-time Inheritance fans. Soar high above the ground with Eragon on Saphira''s majestic back. Experience narrow escapes from the gruesome Ra''zac. See the wonders of the dwarves'' city-mountain, Tronjheim. Rich detail and painterly strokes make each piece by accomplished fantasy artist Sidharth Chaturvedi feel as if it''s actually moving. Fifteen-year-old Eragon believes that he is merely a poor farm boy - until his destiny as a Dragon

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Book SynopsisThis Ladybird Classic is an abridged retelling of the classic tale of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley. A perfect introduction to the famous story, it is ideal for adults to read with children, or for newly confident readers to tackle alone. Please note that due to some scary parts in places, content may not be suitable for very young or sensitive readers.Victor Frankenstein has always been fascinated by the darker side of nature One fateful night, his sinister obsession triggers a chain of events that will have terrible consequences for Frankenstein and those closest to him...Beautiful new illustrations and a gorgeous larger format with ribbon marker bring the magic of this classic story to a new generation of children.

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Book SynopsisDripping with bloody opulence, A Multitude of Dreams creeps up on you like a sly shadow. I couldn't guess at the horrors until it was too late to look away! I loved this book. Erin A. Craig, New York Times bestselling author of House of Salt and SorrowThe bloody plague is finally past, but what fresh horror lies in its wake?Princess Imogen of Goslind has lived a sheltered life for three years at the boarded-up castleshe and the rest of its inhabitants safe from the bloody mori roja plague that's ravaged the kingdom. But Princess Imogen has a secret, and as King Stuart descends further into madness, it's at great risk of being revealed. Rations dwindle each day, and unhappy murmurings threaten to crack the facade of the years-long charade being played within the castle walls. Nico Mott once enjoyed a comfortable life of status, but the plague took everyone and everything from him. If not for the generosity of a nearby lord, Nico may not have survived the mori roja's aftermath. But doeTrade ReviewPraise for A Multitude of Dreams:“Rutherford’s talent for creating a story that haunts and unravels you is not unlike Poe in her mastery.” —Buzzfeed“A bloody, fast-paced, and starkly beautiful reimagining of a Gothic classic—with a determined, fierce heroine at its heart. You’ll be lured into the rotten opulence of Eldridge Hall, and you won’t ever want to leave.” —Allison Saft, New York Times bestselling author of A Far Wilder Magic “Mara Rutherford’s gothic fantasy glitters with romance and dangerous secrets, rotting castles and slow-burning suspense. A spellbinding tale woven with horror and hope that will linger with readers long after the final page." —Rebecca Ross, New York Times bestselling author of Divine Rivals"With its slow-burning romance, masquerading characters, and dangerous castle intrigue, this timely fantasy enthralled me from the first page to last!” —Kathryn Purdie, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Bone Crier’s Moon"A Multitude of Dreams immerses you in lush, grotesque glamor; a world of decaying gothic manors and sinister monsters, where suspenseful horror is threaded with an undercurrent of determination and hope." —Lyndall Clipstone, author of the World at the Lake’s Edge duology and Unholy Terrors"Inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Masque of the Red Death,” this lush, eerie tale balances mystery, horror, and romance...Exquisitely moody and goose bumps-inducing." —Kirkus ReviewsPraise for The Poison Season:"Mara Rutherford’s The Poison Season took me on journey through a bloodthirsty forest, where two star-crossed lovers discover the true meaning of poison. It brims with evocative storytelling that left me enchanted!" — Emily J. Taylor, New York Times bestselling author of Hotel Magnifique"Whimsical, romantic, and satisfying." —Kirkus Reviews“This darkly magical tale, mixing forbidden romance, family drama, and a suspenseful mystery, is a strong standalone fantasy.” —Booklist "The Poison Season is a haunting and fairytale-esque YA fantasy about fear, love, and community. Recommend for fans of Small Favors, Lakesedge, and The Bone Houses." —YA Books Central

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Book SynopsisTyler and his friends are ready for a Cybercard Slam tourney when Cynthia Cyber appears. The supervillain makes the Slam Card creatures come to life and captures Tyler's friends in cards. It's up to the Gamer to save his friends and stop Cynthia!

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of Thirteen, Tom Hoyle's Spiders is a creepy, spine-tingling YA thriller that will leave you breathless, perfect for fans of Michael Grant.Adam may have survived once, but a cult still has him in its sights. And this time he may not escape with his life . . .Abbie's dad is an undercover agent, tasked with exposing dangerous cults. He's normally able to maintain his distance, but this time Abbie's worried he's in too deep.Megan was sure she and Adam were safe, but now he's missing and she's the only one who can help him . . .The web is closing in around them . . .Trade ReviewAddictive mix of action, danger and nail-biting suspense . . . a big screen thriller packed into the pages of a book. * Lancashire Evening Post *Thirteen was one hell of a ride and was nothing like I'd read before, and Spiders followed that suit, with a thrilling plot, fantastic characters and an extra shiver inducing factor that really took this book to the next level, it was superb. -- Amanda Gray * http://book-badger.blogspot.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisThe timeless, genre-defying classics Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde & Other Stories, Dracula, Frankenstein, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Other Stories, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Raven & Other Writings are now available together in this bone-chilling paperback boxed set.In Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde & Other Stories, the relationship between a well-respected doctor and a violent criminal is more shocking than anyone could guess in this unholy tale of a repressed man giving himself over wholly to the worst of his vices and shame. Also, two medical students turn to grave robbing in “The Body Snatcher” and a man wishes on a cursed bottle in “The Bottle Imp.” In Dracula, young English lawyer Jonathan Harker’s trip to Romania to meet with Count Dracula sets off a chain of events that threaten the lives of his friends, including his fiancée, Mina. With the help of vampire expert Professor Van Helsing, can Jonathan, Mina, and their friends defeat their sinister foe? In Frankenstein, Victor Frankenstein is an aspiring scientist whose obsession with the idea of creating life leads him to animate a humanoid figure he crafted from corpses. Confronted with the horror of what he’s created, Frankenstein abandons his monster—who in turn vows revenge. In The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Other Stories, schoolteacher Ichabod Crane flees from the Headless Horseman, Ichabod Crane sleeps for twenty years to wake to a changed world, and more. The titular Phantom of the Opera hides from the world while terrorizing the Paris Opera House and its star, beautiful soprano Christine Daaé, in The Phantom of the Opera. In The Raven & Other Writings, murder and grief dominate the eerie stories and poems of Edgar Allan Poe. This deliciously eerie paperback boxed set includes: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde & Other Stories Dracula Frankenstein The Legend of Sleepy Hollow & Other Stories The Phantom of the Opera The Raven & Other Writings

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