Spotlight – Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime

Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime by Jennifer Claessen is published by UCLan Publishing. It is due for release on Thursday 26th June 2025.

Blurb

Legend and edge-of-your-seat action fuse together in this exciting new time travel adventure by esteemed children’s author, Jennifer Claessen. With danger at every turn and new-forming friendships emerging, this middle-grade title is equal parts thrilling and heartwarming, underpinned with an informative feminist retelling of Ancient Greek myth.

A mysterious labyrinth. A desperate king. A rebellious princess.

Being stuck in a crumbling old villa in Crete with her annoying, history-obsessed little brother Remy isn’t exactly Netta’s idea of a fun summer holiday. But before she can even get bored, Netta starts having very real dreams where she is dragged back thousands of years to Ancient Greece. Here, King Minos is preparing for the opening of his precious labyrinth, and there are rumours that a monster lurks inside. As Netta becomes more drawn to the past, her present-day self starts slipping away. Netta and Remy must figure out what is pulling her back before they run out of time – and if they don’t solve the puzzle soon, Netta might just become history herself.

About the Author

Jennifer Claessen born in Reading so, of course, grew up a book worm. She is the author of the A Month of Magic series. She studied literature and theatre at at least five universities. As teacher and theatre-maker, Jennifer loves stories and leads interactive drama-based workshops.

She is currently Writer in Residence at Abney Park, a cemetery in northeast London, where she works with year five students on telling their own stories. Jennifer has two small feral children of her own and is raising them to love reading, travel and ice cream, just like her. You can find her whizzing to drama and creative writing workshops on her yellow bike.

I have previously featured Jennifer’s blog tour for her Month of Magic trilogy on my blog here: Blog Tour – The December Witches by Jennifer Claessen

Praise for the Month of Magic trilogy

‘This is such a warm-hearted and joyful story about finding your magic…A comforting hug of a book, with a sprinkling of peril and adventure too!’ – Yarrow Townsend, author of The Map of Leaves

‘It explores big, complicated feelings about identity and finding your place in the world in a thoughtful and charming way’ Anna James

Book Review: Pergrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm

Title: Pergrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm

Written by: Ash Bond

Cover design and llustrations by: Two Dots and lettering by Katie Foreman

Published by: Picadilly Press

The first in a fantastic new middle grade series, this atmospheric and imaginative adventure grabbed me from the very first page. Peregrine is a feisty, spirited and enterprising young girl who craves excitement, and the fast paced narrative delivers exactly that.

The story is told from the perspectives of four characters: Peregrine, Royan the dryad, Cal the faun and Hekate the witch. Their paths cross as Hekate attempts to reopen a portal and bring an ancient evil into the Cosmic Realm. Each viewpoint is clearly marked in the chapter headings, which helps guide the reader through the shifting perspectives.

The book draws on creatures from Greek mythology and weaves them into a unique and magical storyline. It explores themes of identity and belonging as Peregrine searches for the truth about who she is and what the Cosmic Realm means to her. The realm itself is a parallel world to Earth where magic is real and mythological beings exist.

I particularly enjoyed the portals used to connect the two worlds. The links to Oxford and the London Underground were clever and added depth, helping to move the plot forward in an inventive way. The included map was a helpful touch and added a clear sense of place.

The world building was rich and creative, and I found myself fully immersed in the setting. There was never a dull moment. The journey to the underworld was a standout section and added to the sense of mystery and excitement.

The story came to a satisfying close while still leaving the reader eager for the next instalment.

Book Review – Gargoyles: The Watcher by Tamsin Mori

Title: Gargoyles: Guardians of the Source

Written by: Tamsin Mori

Cover design and llustrations by: David Dean

Published by: Uclan Publishing

Tamsin Mori returns with another thrilling instalment in the Gargoyles series. I was excited to rejoin Callen and his friends, Yasmin, Raf and Angus, for Book 2 of the Gargoyles trilogy. The Watcher picks up where Guardians of the Source left off, plunging readers straight back into the magical world of Gargoyles Rest, where danger is rising once more.

Callen may have bonded with Zariel the gargoyle, but his training as a Guardian is far from complete. When Oculus, the organisation that oversees all magical sources, hears of his appointment, they send a Watcher to assess whether he’s truly up to the task. Failure could mean losing both his gargoyle and the home he has just begun to love.

But Callen has more to worry about than impressing a Watcher. A kelpie named Gem has gone missing since the final battle at the source and all signs point to Jake, the villain who escaped. Worse still, magic is blighting the local countryside and village again, twisting the land with dark energy. Callen, Yasmin, Raf and Angus suspect another source is being corrupted and if they cannot stop it in time, The Watcher will seal it and magic everywhere for good.

With the future of the world’s magic hanging in the balance, the group sets off on a new mission to uncover the truth behind the tainted sources and rescue Gem. Along the way they encounter other Guardians and magical creatures. Their journey is full of high stakes, fast-paced action and deepening friendships as they race to stop the spread of darkness before it consumes everything.

Callen and Zariel start training, practising gargoyle riding whilst his parents teach him archery and sword fighting. His inexperience is a constant obstacle, but it makes his courage and growth all the more compelling. He learns through his mistakes and begins to understand what being a Guardian truly means. The threat is bigger this time and so is the world, with the magic system expanding beyond the grounds of Gargoyles Rest.

The only thing missing is a map. With such a rich setting and a growing cast of characters, a visual guide to the grounds and surrounding locations would help readers stay grounded in the action.

Once again Mori delivers a gothic-tinged fantasy packed with charm, danger and imagination. Full of magical creatures, mysterious secrets and heartfelt moments, The Watcher is a spellbinding adventure that keeps the heart of the first book while raising the stakes.

An original and exciting continuation of the trilogy, perfect for fans aged 8 and up who love atmospheric fantasy with humour, heart and a dash of darkness.

Spotlight – Exit Stage Death

Curtains up… and someone’s plotting more than just stage directions. In Exit Stage Death, Ava Eldred delivers a whip-smart, twist-filled mystery for young readers who love their clues clever and their sleuths sharp. With a backstage full of secrets and a cast that’s anything but ordinary, this YA crime novel is set to steal the spotlight when it hits shelves on June 5th. Published by UCLan Publishing.

Blurb

From producer Ava Eldred comes a gripping YA musical theatre themed murder mystery. Strange happenings are plaguing Camp Chance, but can a group of friends solve these alarming disappearances before curtain-up? Dramatic in every sense of the word, this showstopping novel will have you on the edge of your seat.

Livi Campbell’s summer to-do list is simple:

  • 1. Have the best final summer at Camp Chance.
  • 2. Prove to her parents that acting is an acceptable career choice.
  • 3. Smash all her rehearsals and get the lead in the senior showcase.

But when a fellow camper shows up dead under mysterious circumstances and Livi finds a note suggesting all is not as it seems, she must team up with her campmates to catch the culprit before they kill again.

Enter Juliet, the social media influencer with everything to prove; Aaron, the nepo baby who isn’t sure he wants to be in Hollywood at all; Daisy, the inexperienced newbie trying to find her place; and Sam, the leading man who broke Livi’s heart last summer.

The players are in place. The stage is set. Curtain up.

About the Author

Ava Eldred was born in London, and has spent much of the last decade writing and developing stage musicals, as well as producing large scale theatrical concerts. Her work has been performed both in London and internationally.

She is a recent alumnus of Faber Academy’s Writing a Novel course. Her debut novel, The Boyband Murder Mystery, was published by Penguin Random House in 2021.

Book Review: Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes (Book 3)

To celebrate today’s launch of Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes (Thursday 29th May), I’m thrilled to share my review of the latest swashbuckling instalment in this action-packed series. With betrayals, magical secrets and high-seas adventures, Book 3 takes readers deeper into the world of the Pirate Federation and the dangerous League of True Pirates.

Find out why this gripping new chapter is a must-read for fans of daring missions and unforgettable characters.

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Title: Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes

Written by: Justin Somper

Illustrated by: Teo Skaffa

Published by: UClan Publishing

Sword Echoes, the third book in the Pirate Academy series, picks up immediately after the events of Book 2, launching readers straight into another thrilling adventure filled with unexpected twists and double-crossing characters.

The story begins with a shocking revelation: a beloved teacher from Barracuda Class is unmasked as an agent of the League of True Pirates. As Jacoby struggles to process the betrayal, he uncovers evidence suggesting that one of his classmates might be the League’s next target.

Determined to fight back, the Barracudas bravely infiltrate the League, an organisation bent on destroying the honourable Pirate Federation and dismantling the safety rules they view as restrictive. Their mission is fraught with danger as they attempt to stop the League from carrying out its destructive plans.

Meanwhile, Jasmine sets sail on a daring solo mission to reunite with her father, only to find herself navigating treacherous waters. Far from the Academy, Neo follows a trail of clues left by his mother, leading to a mysterious sword with extraordinary powers. Rooted in a believable magical system, the sword is not only a powerful artefact but also a link to Neo’s past, offering a deeper understanding of his background.

The idea of three sister swords, each with unique abilities and the potential to become even more powerful when united, adds a fascinating layer to the story and leaves readers eager for the next instalment.

The narrative is fast-paced and emotionally engaging, with each character driven by personal stakes and clear motivations. Neo, Jasmine and Jacoby each have distinct voices, and the shifting perspectives add richness to the plot. Their individual journeys are compelling and equally enjoyable to follow.

Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes explores themes of family, loyalty and friendship, all wrapped up in a high-seas adventure. It’s a perfect choice for readers who enjoy action-packed stories and swashbuckling pirates.

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Last month I was involved in the cover reveal for Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes (Book three). You can take a look here: Cover Reveal: Pirate Academy Sword Echoes.

To read my review of the first book in the series see: Book Review: Pirate Academy – New Kid on Deck.

To see my interview with Justin Somper about the series go to: Blog Tour – Pirate Academy: Missing at Sea.

Spotlight – Wildlands

Today I am spotlighting a middle grade adventure, Wildlands by Brogen Murphy, which was published on 6th March 2025 by Puffin Books, a subsidary of Penguin Random House. The story was sparked by Brogen’s university studies in zoology.

A UTOPIAN FUTURE.
A FORBIDDEN WILDERNESS.
TWO SISTERS TRYING TO SURVIVE.

Twenty-five years into the future, no humans are allowed in the Wildlands – a vast area in Britain where wolves, lynx and bison roam free. The only exception is a high-speed train line between London and Glasgow that crosses right through the heart of the project. Thirteen-year-old Astrid and her little sister, Indie, are onboard when their train slows to a brief, unexpected stop… and they find themselves accidentally left behind.

Stranded in this place of astonishing natural wonders and terrible dangers, they have only a rucksack, a phone without signal – and each other. As every wrong turn takes them deeper into the Wildlands, do the sisters have the ingenuity and determination to survive? How far would YOU go to find your way home?

Perfect for fans of The Explorer and The Last Wild, this gripping and heartfelt survival story by debut author Brogen Murphy takes place in an imagined rewilded future, teeming with lost flora and fauna that we can only dream about encountering today.

About the Author

Exploring a utopian vision of the future where society has taken radical steps to address humanity’s relationship with the environment, the book touches on the themes of rewilding and sustainability, sisterhood and belonging. The thrilling plot draws in readers while also raising compelling questions about humanity’s relationship with nature. Brogen’s background in climate activism and green technology gives them an authentic perspective on the issues raised in the story.

After graduating with a degree in Zoology from the University of Cambridge, Brogen Murphy set about trying to figure out how best to save the world. After a (very) brief stint in climate activism, they spent fifteen years promoting clean technologies that help build a low-carbon future. They are currently on a nomadic adventure with their wife, searching for the perfect place to live.

Book Review – Paper Dragons: The Rise of the Sand Spirits.

Title: Paper Dragons: The Rise of the Sand Spirits

Written by: Siobhan McDermott

Illustrated by: Yuzhen Cai

Published by: Hodder Children’s Books

Paper Dragons: The Rise of the Sand Spirits is a vibrant and imaginative sequel that expands on the rich world introduced in The Fight for the Hidden Realm. Siobhan McDermott continues to build a universe steeped in Chinese mythology, filled with colour, complexity and magic. From the underwater city of Hok Woh to the crowded streets of Omophilli, every setting bursts with detail and originality.

The story follows Zhi Ging, a determined and compassionate young Silhouette, as she and her companions face twelve demanding trials in their quest to become Cyo B’Ahon, apprentices to the immortals. Each challenge tests a different discipline such as Concealment, Perception and Recall, with unexpected twists along the way. Zhi Ging must also navigate a hostile relationship with Iridill, a fellow student from her hometown who is driven to sabotage her progress. As yellow lines appear mysteriously on the walls, suspicion falls on Zhi Ging, threatening everything she has worked for.

The narrative builds on familiar elements we met inn the first book, including jellyfish that assist the immortals, animated paper birds and a mischievous phoenix named Malo. There are dark turns too, as Zhi Ging uncovers that many former Silhouettes have been turned to stone and children across the realm are vanishing under suspicious circumstances. The Matchmakers, once trusted figures, appear to be involved, especially when Zhi Ging discovers grains of sand hidden inside the buns they force upon others. This clue draws the elusive Sand Spirits into the plot and adds layers of mystery.

The novel shines in its creativity and magical world building. The Floating Markets and mystical creatures offer moments of wonder while Zhi Ging’s personal journey, including startling revelations about her past, keeps the emotional core strong. I loved the training exercise and when Zhi Ging had to recover the missing students and the expert way the tension builds to the major twist that sets up an exciting next instalment.

The Rise of the Sand Spirits is a compelling read. The blend of folklore and original fantasy makes for a thrilling and thoughtful adventure. Zhi Ging is a strong lead and her world is one readers will want to return to. Fans of the series should definitely read, or even like me reread, the first book before diving into this one but they will likely find themselves, again like me, eager for book three.

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy magical schools, mythology-inspired fantasy and determined heroines.

To read my revieew of the first book in the series, Paper Dragons: The Fight for the Hidden Realm, see: Book Review: Paper Dragons: The Fight for the Hidden Realm.

Spotlight – The Ordinary Life of Jacominus Gainsborough

The Ordinary Life of Jacominus Gainsborough by Rébecca Dautremer is due for publication by Post Wave Children’s Books this week on the 22nd May 2025

This timeless picture book captures the quiet wonder of an ordinary yet
extraordinary life. Through 12 beautifully illustrated scenes and portraits of our
hero at different ages, follow Jacominus Gainsborough – a humble, fluffy white
rabbit – through the changing seasons as life unfolds all around him.


From childhood through to old age, Jacominus is fortunate to be surrounded by
family and friends. He may not be the biggest or strongest, but he grows, learns,
faces moments of sadness and also finds great joy. This celebration of his life, as
he becomes a father, and then a grandfather, tells the story of a soul who has
loved and been loved, of the pride of having done one’s best and of the happiness
of a life well lived.


Rébecca Dautremer brings a universal message of the beauty of being alive in this
lyrical, stunningly illustrated story.

About the Author Illustrator

Rébecca Dautremer is a celebrated French illustrator and author. She graduated
from the Arts Décoratifs School in Paris and went on to illustrate several
bestselling picture books, including L’Amoureux which won the Prix Sorcières.

In 2016 she found a new publishing home with Editions Sarbacane where she was
able to express her creativity and unique personal style through her own stories.
She created the character of Jacominus Gainsborough in 2018, and her books
have been translated in 20 languages and published worldwide.

I would like to thank Antonia Wilkinson for sending me the PR for this book. Thank you.

Book Review: Gargoyles: Guardians of the Source by Tamsin Mori

Title: Gargoyles: Guardians of the Source

Written by: Tamsin Mori

Cover design and llustrations by: David Dean

Published by: Uclan Publishing

Tamsin Mori’s latest middle-grade fantasy adventure delivers everything young readers love: mystery, magic, friendship and a brave but relatable hero. This story is as meaningful as it is exciting. There are themes of honesty, courage, self-discovery and the importance of being true to yourself.

The book follows 11-year-old Callen, who moves into a crumbling country mansion called Gargoyle’s Rest after his grandmother’s death. The estate is steeped in secrets, with sprawling grounds, a lake, battlements and mysterious gargoyles that have slept for decades. When Zariel, a lioness shaped gargoyle with wings, suddenly awakens, Callen finds himself drawn into an ancient magical legacy involving guardian protectors, magical creatures and a powerful source of magic in the basement which is under threat.

Callen’s journey to become a Guardian is anything but straightforward. Zariel is sceptical of him, and Callen struggles with self-doubt, secrecy and the pressure to prove himself. His attempts to impress new friends with half-truths spiral into bigger problems, teaching him the hard way trust must be earned through honesty. The emotional growth he experiences, particularly in learning to be himself adds depth to the adventure.

The mansion itself becomes a character in its own right, full of hidden tunnels, old diaries, and forgotten history. However, I found it frustrating the sister’s diary disappears and never reappears even when Callen proves he is up to the task.

One highlight is the involvement of Callen’s parents, who play active roles in the plot rather than being sidelined. Their protective instincts and disbelief in Callen’s abilities feel authentic, echoing Zariel’s doubts and reinforcing Callen’s internal conflict. The way they step up and help to fight the evil felt instinctive.

The world-building is rich and immersive. Magic is cleverly integrated into the real world with clearly defined rules, which prevents it from becoming a convenient fix. Instead, the characters rely on teamwork, quick thinking and bravery to solve problems and face rising dangers. I particularly appreciated the nuanced view of magic in that it was neither good nor evil but shaped by the intentions of those who wield it:

“Magic is neither good, nor bad – it simply multiplies the dreams you feed it. Be careful what you wish for…”

The pacing is fast and engaging, helped by short, punchy chapters that keep readers gripped. Vivid descriptions bring the setting and characters to life, while the story’s twists are both clever and satisfying.

Overall, Gargoyles: Guardians of the Source is a captivating, action-packed read for ages 8+, with heart, humour and a meaningful message.

Spotlight and book Review – My Rice Is Best

Get ready for a deliciously fun food face-off in My Rice is Best by Selina Brown and Maxwell A Oginni. This joyful new picture book celebrates culture, friendship, and the meals that make us feel at home. It was published by Puffin last week, on Thursday 8 May 2025.

Blurb

A laugh-out-loud, heartwarming picture book that brings the joy of food, friendship, and cultural pride to life, written by Selina Brown, winner of the 2025 London Book Fair Trailblazer Award, and CEO of the internationally renowned Black British Book Festival.

My Rice is Best explores the playful rivalry between two friends who both believe their rice dish is the ultimate favourite.

Shane is convinced that nothing beats a big, delicious bowl of rice and peas—it’s the best rice in the world! But when he brings his favourite meal to school, he discovers that his friend Yinka is just as passionate about her jollof rice. What follows is a hilarious and heartfelt showdown to settle the age-old question: which rice reigns supreme?

With vibrant illustrations from Maxwell A. Oginni’s which bring to life the humour and playfulness, the book offers an entertaining way-in to help children embrace new cuisines and celebrate cultural identity and diversity. With the rising demand for inclusive stories that celebrate different cultures, My Rice is Best is a timely and essential addition to any child’s bookshelf.

Review

When Shane brings his beloved rice and peas to school, he doesn’t expect a rice rivalry with his friend Yinka, who swears by her jollof rice.

What follows is a funny and heartwarming showdown that explores identity through the universal love of food.

Packed with humour and vibrant illustrations, My Rice is Best is the perfect picture book for sparking conversations about heritage and sharing stories around the table.

This book is a mesme-ricing celebration of what brings us together. (Saw the pun on amazonn and it made me laugh!)

About the Author

Selina Brown is an Author, Marketing Consultant and Event Producer. At 16 she became the Youth MP for Nottingham, her love for words gained her two Degrees and a Masters at 21 years old. After living and working in New York, Jamaica, Kenya and Gambia Selina founded Little Miss Creative, an award-winning Female Development Agency that empowers girls in schools across the UK.

During the pandemic she wrote the picture book series Nena that became popular in 2020. The same year Selina launched the internationally renowned Black British Book Festival, which aims to celebrate new and emerging Black British authors across all genres of literature.

About the Illustrator

Maxwell Afolabi Oginni is a Nigerian-born, London-based animator & illustrator. Classically trained in 2D character animation, he has worked in the mainstream industry for over 18 years as director, animator, illustrator & story artist for TV commercials, music videos, feature film & popular children’s entertainment productions such as, Sony Pictures Animation’s ‘Young Love’, Mr Bean: The Animated Series, JoJo & Gran Gran, Hey Duggee, School of Roars, plus various other titles.

Having developed his own distinct style, Maxwell has also established himself as a skilled & ambitious creative with a fresh & dynamic approach. His unique artworks have been acknowledged by various institutions & highly respected industry professionals throughout his career.