Review: A Spoonful of Murder - Robin Stevens

A Spoonful of Murder by Robin Stevens, published by Puffin on 4th January 2018

Goodreads synopsis:
When Hazel Wong's beloved grandfather passes away, Daisy Wells is all too happy to accompany her friend (and Detective Society Vice President) to Hazel's family estate in beautiful, bustling Hong Kong.

But when they arrive they discover something they didn't expect: there's a new member of the Wong family. Daisy and Hazel think baby Teddy is enough to deal with, but as always the girls are never far from a mystery. Tragedy strikes very close to home, and this time Hazel isn't just the detective. She's been framed for murder!

The girls must work together like never before, confronting dangerous gangs, mysterious suspects and sinister private detectives to solve the murder and clear Hazel's name - before it's too late . . .

Review:
'A Spoonful of Murder' is the sixth instalment in the Murder Most Unladylike series. Oh how I adore these books! They are sooo good and such a treat to read. Everything else just fades into the background when I'm reading about Daisy and Hazel.

The story is set in Hong Kong in 1936. It was interesting to see the whole book set on non-English soil and how this affects the behaviour of the characters. With Hazel back with her family (Daisy in tow), Hazel is suddenly the one who is more in charge as she knows the language and the culture. It was strange to see Daisy having to take a backseat for once as normally she is always barrelling ahead but she is now on slightly uncertain footing. I absolutely love Hazel, so I enjoyed seeing her leading the investigation and growing in confidence throughout the book. The exchange of roles between the two is well written and really well done. I honestly sometimes forget that the two girls are only fourteen because they seem much more mature than that with everything they have had to face together.

I also loved learning more about Hazel's family and the ways and rituals of Hong Kong society. Her little sisters, May and Rose are very sweet too and I wonder if there is potential for a future spin-off starring them.   

The mystery was deliciously intriguing and yielded a lot of surprises. Robin Stevens always ensures that the books are well plotted so I'm never able to guess the outcome which makes for even better reading. I'm tempted to say that this was my favourite book in the series so far. Impossible to put-down, full of puzzles and intrigue and wonderfully written. Stevens does it again! I hope we have many more Wells and Wong adventures still to come.

Books I'm looking forward to in 2018

I love the start of a new year because there are so many wonderful new books to look forward to.  Here are just a few of my most hotly anticipated titles for the first half of 2018.

A Spoonful of Murder by Robin Stevens

Published by Puffin on 8th February

When Hazel Wong's beloved grandfather passes away, Daisy Wells is all too happy to accompany her friend (and Detective Society Vice President) to Hazel's family estate in beautiful, bustling Hong Kong. But when they arrive they discover something they didn't expect: there's a new member of the Wong family. Daisy and Hazel think baby Teddy is enough to deal with, but as always the girls are never far from a mystery. Tragedy strikes very close to home, and this time Hazel isn't just the detective. She's been framed for murder!

The girls must work together like never before, confronting dangerous gangs, mysterious suspects and sinister private detectives to solve the murder and clear Hazel's name - before it's too late . . .

The Prophecy by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Published by Hodder on 8th March

The end has come.
Old gods will fall.
New ones will rise...
and Seth and Josie will need more than love to survive the final battle that could not only destroy them, but the world as they know it.

 

Not If I Save You First by Ally Carter

Published by Orchard Books on 27th March

 

After Maddie's Secret Service dad takes a bullet for the president, he takes Maddie somewhere he thinks they'll be safe - far away from the White House and the president's son, Logan.

But when Logan comes to Alaska, so does the danger.

If there's one thing Alaska has taught Maddie, it's how to survive. And now her best friend's life depends on it ...  

 

 

A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

Published by Bloomsbury on 1st May

 

Feyre, Rhys and their companions are still busy rebuilding the Night Court and the vastly changed world beyond. But Winter Solstice is finally near, and with it a hard-earned reprieve. Yet even the festive atmosphere can't keep the shadows of the past from looming. As Feyre navigates her first Winter Solstice as High Lady, she finds that those dearest to her have more wounds than she anticipated - scars that will have a far-reaching impact on the future of their court.

 

 

The Belles by Dhonielle Clayton

Published by Gollancz on 8th February

 

In the opulent world of Orléans, the people are born grey and damned, and only a Belle's powers can make them beautiful.  Camellia Beauregard wants to be the favourite Belle - the one chosen by the queen to tend to the royal family.

 

But once Camellia and her Belle sisters arrive at court, it becomes clear that being the favourite is not everything she always dreamed it would be. Behind the gilded palace walls live dark secrets, and Camellia soon learns that her powers may be far greater - and far darker - than she ever imagined.

When the queen asks Camellia to break the rules she lives by to save the ailing princess, she faces an impossible decision: protect herself and the way of the Belles, or risk her own life, and change the world forever.
 

 

Are you looking forward to any of these too?

 

Which books do you have on your wishlist for 2018?

 

Review: See You in the Cosmos - Jack Cheng

See You in the Cosmos by Jack Cheng, published by Puffin on 2nd March 2017

Goodreads synopsis:
11-year-old Alex Petroski loves space and rockets, his mom, his brother, and his dog Carl Sagan-named for his hero, the real-life astronomer. All he wants is to launch his golden iPod into space the way Carl Sagan (the man, not the dog) launched his Golden Record on the Voyager spacecraft in 1977. From Colorado to New Mexico, Las Vegas to L.A., Alex records a journey on his iPod to show other lifeforms what life on earth, his earth, is like. But his destination keeps changing. And the funny, lost, remarkable people he meets along the way can only partially prepare him for the secrets he'll uncover-from the truth about his long-dead dad to the fact that, for a kid with a troubled mom and a mostly not-around brother, he has way more family than he ever knew.

Review:
I hadn't heard of this title before reading it, so I started it not having any particular expectations of the content.  I found myself instantly drawn into Alex's story and ultimately found 'See You In The Cosmos' to be a delightful and entrancing read.

It reminded me a bit of 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio in the way that I was drawn to the main character of Alex.  He is an incredible individual and for an eleven year old boy is both brave and true and very inspirational.  When he embarks upon a journey with his dog Carl Sagan, to launch his own rocket into space, he meets an eclectic group of individuals along the way and learns some hard truths about his own family history.

Each chapter is structured like a dialogue by Alex about his journey.  His voice is true and authentic and made me love him even more.  There should be more characters like him in middle-grade fiction. 

The book deals with some serious issues such as mental illness and the affect it can have on a family but the overall message is one of positivity and hope and made me believe that Alex would be alright in the end. 

This is a word of mouth treat that is sure to be a big hit in 2017.  It most definitely won me over!

Review: Mistletoe and Murder - Robin Stevens

Mistletoe and Murder by Robin Stevens, published by Puffin on 20th October 2016

Goodreads synopsis:
Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong are spending the Christmas hols in snowy Cambridge. Hazel has high hopes of its beautiful spires, cosy libraries and inviting tea-rooms - but there is danger lurking in the dark stairwells of ancient Maudlin College.

Two days before Christmas, there is a terrible accident. At least, it appears to be an accident - until the Detective Society look a little closer, and realise a murder has taken place. Faced with several irritating grown-ups and fierce competition from a rival agency, they must use all their cunning and courage to find the killer (in time for Christmas Day, of course).

Review:
A new Wells and Wong mystery is fast becoming the highlight of my reading calendar.  This is one of my favourite series and each book is a genuine delight to read.  I usually devour them in one sitting - the perfect bun break treat!

The newest title is set around Christmas time in the gorgeous setting of snowy Cambridge.  Hazel and Daisy are spending Christmas with Daisy's Aunt and her brother Bertie.  They have no expectations beyond exploring their ancient surroundings and enjoying buns galore in Fitzbillies.  Well, that's not entirely true, as the two girls always have a nose for any possible mystery that might arise!  Instead of a quiet Christmas with family, they stumble upon a murder mystery after a terrible incident occurs.  Determined to investigate and solve the crime, they face competition from the Junior Pinkertons, Alexander and his friend George, who want to prove that they are the best detective society in Cambridge.

As usual, the mystery is fiendishly clever and such fun to untangle.  There are lots of clues presented along the way and suspects identified but I'm always in awe of Daisy and Hazel and their powers of deduction.  They make a great team.  People always seem to underestimate a pair of girls, which plays in their favour and allows them to investigate all kinds of different avenues.  Stevens, also uses this to highlight the differences between the two genders and the fact that even in the 1930s, women were still in an inferior position and treated as such by men. 

I loved the Cambridge setting.  I've never visited but would love to, so it was great getting to live vicariously through Daisy and Hazel.  Plus the ancient buildings sound gorgeous and are the perfect place for a murder mystery to occur.    

A five star fabulous read, I was head over heels for 'Mistletoe and Murder'.  I love the fact that it took place during my favourite holiday season and I can't wait to see our intrepid duo back together again for their next mystery.  This is one series that I hope will go on and on and on.

Review: Jolly Foul Play - Robin Stevens

Jolly Foul Play by Robin Stevens, published by Puffin on 24th March 2016

Goodreads synopsis:
Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong have returned to Deepdean for a new school term, but nothing is the same. There's a new Head Girl, Elizabeth Hurst, and a team of Prefects - and these bullying Big Girls are certainly not good eggs.

Then, after the fireworks display on Bonfire Night, Elizabeth is found - murdered.

Many girls at Deepdean had reason to hate Elizabeth, but who might have committed such foul play? Could the murder be linked to the secrets and scandals, scribbled on scraps of paper, that are suddenly appearing around the school? And with their own friendship falling to pieces, how will Daisy and Hazel solve this mystery?

Review:

I was beyond excited to start reading ‘Jolly Foul Play’ by Robin Stevens. I’ve been on a bit of a crime kick lately and this series is one of the best. Wells and Wong return to investigate another crime, but this time they have their friends on hand for assistance. The setting of the book is glorious. Deepdean Boarding School is their home away from home. It’s the place where they can enjoy midnight feasts and tuck boxes filled to the brim with an assortment of sweet treats. It’s also, unfortunately, the scene of the crime. I love, no make that adore, stories which are set in boarding schools, so I was really pleased to see Robin Stevens revisiting the place where Hazel and Daisy’s detective society adventures first started.

A lot has happened since those early days. The two girls have solved crime in Daisy’s own home, as well as on board the Orient Express. They have formed a close bond, which this time is tested by another of Hazel’s friendships. Can they still manage to stick together through thick and thin to bring justice to Deepdean? It was interesting to see friction developing between the girls. They are very different characters but their personality traits have always worked well to complement each other. Hazel often has to take a bit of a backseat to Daisy who is more impulsive and headstrong but she has her own unique gifts which often have helped them to crack a case open. Although they are my two favourites, I really enjoyed getting to see their other friends become involved in helping them with the mystery too. Beanie is so sweet and good and Kitty and Lavinia are great side-kicks to have. They all have an important role to play in catching the guilty party.

As the story unravels, all the clues are laid out for the reader to follow. One of the things I enjoy the most is seeing if I can piece everything together and come up with my own theory about what happened and who was involved. Sometimes, I’m right but usually I’m way off the mark. It doesn’t matter though, it’s all part of the fun! There are lots of twists and turns and red herrings as the gang try to eliminate suspects one by one. As Society secretary, Hazel keeps comprehensive notes of the case and these always make great reading, as well as being extremely helpful.

Robin Stevens has done it again with another truly fantastic instalment of the Murder Most Unladylike series. I cannot get enough of these books and seeing the way the story ended, I have a feeling that the next one is going to be another rollicking ride. I can’t wait to join Hazel and Daisy again!          

Review: The Blackthorn Key - Kevin Sands

The Blackthorn Key by Kevin Sands, published by Puffin on 3rd September 2015 

Goodreads synopsis:
London, 1665. Fourteen-year-old Christopher Rowe is apprenticed to master apothecary Benedict Blackthorn. In Blackthorn's shop, Christopher learns the delicate secrets of transforming simple ingredients into powerful medicines, potions and weapons. His beloved master guides him with a firm, steady hand - instilling him with confidence and independence that prove increasingly vital as Christopher learns of a mysterious cult preying on the most learned men in London. The murders are growing closer and closer to home and soon Christopher is torn from the shop with only a page of cryptic clues from his master and the unambiguous warning: 'Tell no one'.

Helped by his best friend, Tom, Christopher must decipher his master's clues, following a trail of deceit towards an unearthly secret with the power to tear the world apart.

Review:
If you are a Percy Jackson fan looking for your next read, then 'The Blackthorn Key' may well fit the bill perfectly.  It is a story with plenty of twists and turns, some dark secrets to uncover and fiendish clues to crack.  Although I don't often read a lot of middle-grade fiction, this one appealed to me a lot and proved to be a fantastic read.

One of the things I particularly liked about it was the main character, Christopher Rowe.  He is a apprentice apothecary to Benedict Blackthorn, who is more like a father to him than an employer.  Christopher finds himself in deep trouble when a series of murders are committed and he is caught in a web of secrets more dangerous than he could ever realise. 

Set just before the plague in London, during 1665, the story hurtles ahead at breakneck speed, taking the reader along for the ride.  You are plunged straight into the adventure, as Christopher has to solve a series of cryptic clues.  The story is like 'The Davinci Code' for a younger generation of readers and I loved it. 

If mystery and murder are your kind of thing, then you will definitely enjoy 'The Blackthorn Key' which will take you on an adventure you will never forget! 

Review: Bodyguard: Ransom - Chris Bradford

Bodyguard: Ransom by Chris Bradford, published by Puffin on 1st May 2014 

Goodreads synopsis:
With a successful high-profile assignment under his belt, Connor’s services are now in great demand. Maddox Sterling, the world famous Australian media mogul, hires him and fellow bodyguard Ling to protect his two children, Ella and Lilly.

His daughter Ella has already been a kidnap victim and Mr Sterling will spare no expense in securing their safety. Colonel Black promises a watertight operation, but Connor knows twins mean twice the trouble!

Review:
Teenage bodyguard Connor Reeves is back in a new and exciting adventure. ‘Ransom’ sees him assigned to protect the twin daughters of a media mogul. But this time he has to put his protection skills into action at sea and away from any kind of back-up.

I loved the first book in this series and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a new instalment. Exciting, fast-paced, gripping and a real thrill-ride, it’s everything and more I look for in a book! The whole idea of teenage bodyguards or buddyguards, as they are known, is fascinating and I enjoyed seeing all the training they have to do to ensure that they are up to the job. Although Connor initially questions himself, he is definitely more than capable of protecting those in his charge.  

I thought setting the story at sea was a nice change too and meant that we got to see Connor learning a whole new set of survival skills. It kept the story fresh and original and presented new challenges which our hero had to overcome. I’m a huge Connor fan and I think male readers in particular will really like and admire him. He always seems to be able to keep a clear head and he’s not one to back down from a challenge, however difficult it may be.  

Brilliantly paced, extremely exciting and packed full of adventure, danger and intrigue, I loved it. I can’t get enough of this series. The next book, ‘Ambush’ is out in May 2015.

 

Review: Anywhere - Jon Robinson

Anywhere by Jon Robinson, published by Puffin on 3rd July 2014

Goodreads synopsis:
Six kids have escaped from a prison in the middle of nowhere. Now they're being hunted.

And they're beginning to realise they have a valuable skill - a skill that powerful people want for themselves.

They need to use it now more than ever, but can they learn how to in time?

Review:
*There may be spoilers from the previous book in the series

'Anywhere' is the second book in this exciting conspiracy series about teenagers Alyn, Jes, Ryan and Elsa, along with Harlan and Julian, as they try to leave the terrible existence of Nowhere behind them. 

 

The teens are separated as they go on the run, determined that they will never return to the terrible prison in which they were held.  As they learn more about their special abilities, they have to decide how to use them and who to trust.  As the characters all become separated, it means that we get to see them trying to survive in different situations and locations, with varying levels of success.  This kept the story flowing and provided plenty of opportunities for plot development.

 

I am over the moon that finally some of my questions have been answered.  I thought the explanation behind their captivity was actually quite plausible and believable which made it all the more scary.  It was great getting to find out more about the people and the organisation behind it all.  But be warned, they are scary bunch of individuals, particularly the insane Stephen!

 

Each chapter in the book is fairly short but impactful and there is always something happening which means that the story rockets along at breakneck speed.  I finished reading this in one evening because it was just so addictive that I couldn’t put it down.  A pacy and exciting read that fans of the TV series Misfits will definitely want to pick up. 

 

Please let me have the final book now!  Somewhere’ is due to be published in 2015.   

Review: Nowhere - Jon Robinson

Nowhere by Jon Robinson, published by Puffin on 4th July 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
Alyn, Jes, Ryan and Elsa are Nowhere.
A concrete cube in the middle of a dense forest.
Imprisoned inside are one hundred teenagers from all over the country.
They're all criminals. But none of them remember committing any crimes.
Who has put them there. What do their captors want?
And how will they ever break free...

Review:
Nowhere’ by Jon Robinson is the first in an enigmatic and thrilling new YA series.  I hadn’t actually heard a lot about it prior to reading this so I wasn’t sure what to expect.  I think that was a good thing because it meant that I was continually taken by surprise in terms of the quality of the plot and the unusual twists and turns that the author incorporated.

 

The premise for this book is brilliant!  Teenagers put in prison in the middle of nowhere, with no knowledge of why they are there.  This must be everybody’s worst nightmare and that alone was enough to hook me in and get me interested in the characters' plights.   

 

The story was really puzzling but in a good way.  There were hints and clues as to what was going on but you had to try to connect all the dots yourself.  I still have lots and lots of questions about the reasons why the teenagers were all being held in the prison and why they were made to think that they were guilty of crimes they had not committed.  It would have been nice to have found out a bit more by the end of the book but I guess a lot of the reveals are being saved for later in the series. 

 

The teens themselves were an interesting bunch.  The book focuses on Alyn, Jes, Ryan and Elsa as they attempt to break out and escape.  I admired their strong will and determination and found myself really rooting for them to succeed.  I would have liked a little more character development throughout the book but flashes of their previous lives are interwoven into the story.      

 

This is a debut novel by a UK author who is definitely one to watch.  I’m eager to read the follow-up ‘Anywhere’ which I’m hoping will shed light on some of the mysteries that are still unanswered. 

#ShareAPuffinBook - The Neverending Story - Michael Ende

This summer Puffin are bringing a series of timeless and unforgettable stories to life for a new generation of readers to discover as A Puffin Book – including Goodnight Mister Tom, Charlotte’s Web, Watership Down and Tarka the Otter. The new editions feature beautiful new cover designs, including iconic cover images and new artwork, as well as additional content, such as material unearthed from the Puffin archive, activities inspired by the books (such as make your own origami Gobbolino the Witch’s Cat!), background information on the story, as well as quizzes, author profiles, fun facts and much more.
I'm pleased to share my favourite story from their launch list of twenty titles.  It wasn't too hard to pick my favourite as soon as I saw 'The Neverending Story' by Michael Ende on the list. 

I first read 'The Neverending Story' when I was twelve, after having seen and fallen in love with the film.  My two best friends and I were hooked on the film and we used to watch it over and over again.  We cried in some places, such as when Atreyu is in the Swamps of Sadness, we laughed in others and we cheered when Bastian finally finds himself in Fantasia, riding on the back of the wonderful Falkor. 

One of the Christmas presents that I found in my stocking that year was a copy of the book.  I think the rest of my presents were forgotten as soon as that book landed in my hands.  I was swept away as I entered the amazing world of Fantasia and joined Bastian on the most incredible adventure of his life.  Michael Ende's writing is truly wonderful and the story is timeless.  Since then I always try to re-read 'The Neverending Story' every other year and I have recommended and implored countless others to read and enjoy it too.

A magical and captivating story, it's one of my all-time favourite books.         

Check out #ShareAPuffinBook to see what others have chosen as their favourite Puffin read. 

Review: Cress - Marissa Meyer

Cress by Marissa Meyer, published by Puffin on 6th February 2014

Goodreads synopsis:
In this third book in the bestselling Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder and Captain Thorne are fugitives on the run, with Scarlet and Wolf in tow. Together, they’re plotting to overthrow Queen Levana and her army.

Their best hope lies with Cress, who has been trapped on a satellite since childhood with only her netscreens as company. All that screen time has made Cress an excellent hacker—unfortunately, she’s just received orders from Levana to track down Cinder and her handsome accomplice.

When a daring rescue goes awry, the group is separated. Cress finally has her freedom, but it comes at a high price. Meanwhile, Queen Levana will let nothing stop her marriage to Emperor Kai. Cress, Scarlet, and Cinder may not have signed up to save the world, but they may be the only ones who can.

Review:
I love this series so much!  It's original, inventive, quirky, exciting and gripping and I adore Marissa Meyer's writing.  The whole concept for the series is unlike anything else I've come across before and starting each new book is such a treat that I always want to savour it as much as possible.  The only problem is that as soon as I've picked up one of Meyer's books, it's utterly impossible to put it down.  Case in point, 'Cress' which took over my life completely once I'd started it.  I couldn't concentrate on anything else apart from the story.

The third book in the Lunar Chronicles is loosely based on the fairy-tale of 'Rapunzel'.  I say loosely because as far as I can remember, Rapunzel was never stuck in a satellite for seven years orbiting the planet earth.  Cress has spent so long on her own that she has almost given up any hope of anyone coming to rescue her.  When she becomes embroiled in Cinder's quest to stop Queen Levana and sabotage her planned marriage, she is thrown into a whole new adventure with the dashing Captain Thorne by her side, but life on earth doesn't always turn out to be what she dreamt about during all those years alone.  I really loved Cress as a main character.  She can be quite timid and shy but I thought that only made some of her actions all the more impressive.  She demonstrates incredible bravery and strength throughout the story and I adored her relationship with Thorne, who she's in love with before they've even met. 

The character viewpoint in the book is split predominantly between Cinder and Cress but also occasionally touches on Scarlet and Dr Erland.  This allows the reader to hurtle between our favourite heroines as they strive to defeat the evil Queen Levana.  I was sad not to see more of Scarlet and Wolf together, because I love them, but I'm fairly sure we'll get to share more of their story in the last book in the series.  One of the things I enjoy about these books, is the way that all the characters intersect with each other.  This is cleverly done and means that there's a whole host of new faces to meet, as well as some beloved favourites to revisit.   

'Cress' weaves fantasy together with adventure and romance to create a thrilling story which gripped me from start to finish.  I thought the book was absolutely amazing and brilliantly constructed and I loved every second of it.  I'm looking forward to finding out what will happen in the concluding instalment of the series, 'Winter' but I really don't want the ride to ever come to an end.  This series is so, so good that you'll keep going back to pick these books up from your shelves to read over and over again.         

Review: The Burning Shadow - Michelle Paver

The Burning Shadow by Michelle Paver, published by Puffin on 1st August 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
While searching for his kidnapped sister, Outsider Hylas takes a dangerous detour when he’s captured as a slave and sent to the copper mines of Thalakrea. Hylas faces brutal overseers and lethal cave-ins while evading his enemies, the Crows. With the aid of an orphaned lion cub and his friend Pirra, Hylas must escape the mines and shatter the power of the Crows for good. But the prophecy is still at work and Hylas cannot escape its grasp, especially when the anger of the oldest god is awakened.

Review:
'The Burning Shadow' is the second book in Michelle Paver's Gods and Warriors series.  When I read the opening instalment last year I was extremely impressed so I was excited to pick up the threads of the main character Hylas's story and see what lay in store for him next.

The plot again follows Hylas the Outsider and Pirra, who is on the run from her life as daughter of the High Priestess.  The two have been separated but they are never far from each other's thoughts and their paths seem destined to collide again in the future.  The adversity that both characters face is shown but their strength lies in their determination to overcome all the obstacles put in their way. 

I absolutely adored the chapters told from the viewpoint of Havoc the lion cub.  Michelle Paver writes beautifully through the eyes of Havoc, conjuring a real sense of the animal's thoughts and feelings.  She also shows wonderfully the cruelty and beauty of nature working in tandem together.  Havoc and Hylas develop an amazing bond and it's this which for me is one of the main strengths of the whole book.  I've yet to come across another author who writes about animals in the way that Paver does.     

An incredible sense of history is conveyed throughout the story.  I knew very little about the Bronze Age before I started reading this series but I feel like I've gained a real understanding of this particular period of history and I'm eager to find out more about the way of life of the people that lived during this time.         

Overall, this was a tale of exciting adventure which hooked me from the very first page. The third book in the series is set to be published in 2014 and with the ending of 'The Burning Shadow' leaving the reader in great anticipation of what will come next, I for one am going to be counting down the days until it hits bookshop shelves.   

'Write for the Gods' short story contest

Young people with a talent for spinning an adventurous yarn are being invited to take part in a unique writing challenge by bestselling novelist Michelle Paver.

To mark the release of her new book, Gods and Warriors: The Burning Shadow, the award-winning children’s author is launching ‘Write for the Gods’, a short story contest offering youngsters of all ages the chance to show off their storytelling skills and scoop some money-can’t-buy prizes.
Wannabe writers should submit their own original tale of up to 450 words.  The ten most imaginative and exciting stories – as selected by Michelle herself – will be published online as part of an official Write for the Gods page on social media platform Tumblr, and appear on the new Gods and Warriors website.

Winning entrants will also receive signed copies of The Burning Shadow, as well as a copy of the first book in the Gods and Warriors series, The Outsiders.

Taking part is simple. Just visit www.writeforthegods.tumblr.com where you will find some opening lines written by Michelle to get your entry started, along with step by step instructions for sending in your finished story. Two winners will be unveiled every week until 23 August 2013.

If you’re stuck for a brainwave, Michelle’s top writing tips should come in handy:

1. Ask yourself: who is my main character? What do they like, hate or fear? Most importantly, what do they want? To escape a lion? Pass a test? Get to safety?

2. Next, ask: what gets in their way of achieving their aim? An enemy? A blizzard? Self doubt? Putting an obstacle in your character’s way, then deciding how they deal with it, will give you the basis of a story.

3. Now make your story real. If it’s set in a forest, take a walk in one and pretend to be your character. Take notes on whatever strikes you, using all five senses.

4. Then, start writing. Just get something down. (You can either write on paper first, or straight onto a computer, whatever feels right for you.)

5. Now read your story through as if you were a new reader. Is anything unclear? A bit boring, wordy or unnecessary? Change it! You can rewrite anything. It’s your story. You’re in charge.

6. Finally, reading your story out loud can really help, especially in writing natural-sounding dialogue.

Wereworld: Storm of Sharks - Curtis Jobling

Wereworld: Storm of Sharks by Curtis Jobling, published by Puffin on 21st May 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
The epic Wereworld saga continues as Drew Ferran—werewolf, leader of people, and the rightful king of Lyssia—battles the evil Catlords who seek to oppress the kingdom. As the war’s scope widens, Drew and his allies take the fight to the high seas. But just as many terrors await them on the water as on land, with pirates and scoundrels abounding and a host of previously-unknown werelords emerging to take sides in the war that threatens to destroy the Seven Realms.

Review:
This is the fifth book in the fantastic Wereworld series by Curtis Jobling and is the penultimate title. I don't know what I'm going to do when it's all over because I've loved it so much.  It's going to leave a big void in my reading calendar as I always look forward to each new instalment being published. 

The story picks up with Drew still fighting for Lyssia's freedom while his allies are scattered and his enemies closing in.  The action packed storyline grabbed me by the throat from the opening chapter and never let go the whole way through.  I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes in the book which took place at sea.  I'm also a fan of Vega the Sharklord and I thought the twist involving him and Casper was perfectly executed.  I certainly didn't guess the truth about them both.    

Whitley has gradually become one of my favourite characters.  She has really grown and matured and is now quite a force to contend with.  There is a romantic undercurrent between her and Drew and I enjoyed the fact that Drew may be a Werelord but he's still pretty clueless sometimes when it comes to the opposite sex.   

I'm looking forward to seeing Trent and Drew finally reunited.  It will be interesting to see what kind of reunion the two brothers have, particularly now that Trent has grown much closer to Gretchen.

I've been Team Hector from the word go and have always believed that he will finally be redeemed.  He comes tantalisingly close to this but Jobling still leaves us hanging about whether or not Hector can ever truly make amends for his actions.  I'm hoping so because I always think back to the type of person he was at the start and those qualities must still be buried deep inside of him. 

I've been a fan of this series from the very beginning and I'm so attached to all the characters and the world that Curtis Jobling has created.  He literally never takes his foot off the gas with some superb storytelling!  I'm excited to find out how it's all going to end in 'War of the Werelords' which is being published in October 2013 but I'll also be extremely sad to wave goodbye to the world of the Seven Realms.  

Review: Scarlet - Marissa Meyer

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer, published by Puffin on 7th February 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. The police have closed her case. The only person Scarlet can turn to is Wolf, a street fighter she does not trust, but they are drawn to each other.

Meanwhile, in New Beijing, Cinder will become the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive – when she breaks out of prison to stay one step ahead of vicious Queen Levana.

As Scarlet and Wolf expose one mystery, they encounter Cinder and a new one unravels. Together they must challenge the evil queen, who will stop at nothing to make Prince Kai her husband, her king, her prisoner.

Review:
'Scarlet' is the second book in the Lunar Chronicles series by Marissa Meyer.  I adored 'Cinder' so I couldn't wait to get started on the sequel which turned out to be equally brilliant and amazing and mind-blowingly good. 

I thought I would miss not having Cinder as the main focus of the story but she is still at the heart of a lot of the action which takes place.  I would have liked some scenes between her and Kai but I have a feeling that this could well be stored up for the next book, just to keep us fans in anticipation.  Cinder is joined by some fantastic new characters including the determined and headstrong Scarlet Benoit, the mysterious Wolf and the amusing Captain Thorne. 

The story is split into two strands, one following Cinder and Thorne and the other focusing on Scarlet's quest to find and rescue her grandmother.  Chapters switch back and forth between the two but the plot strands eventually converge as the links between all the characters come to light.  I was curious to see how Meyer was going to integrate all the new faces but she did it brilliantly and by the end of the book I loved Scarlet as much as I do Cinder. 

The interweaving of fairytale elements with a fantasy sci-fi twist is one of the trademarks of this series and is so cleverly done.  There are traces of Little Red Riding Hood throughout with Scarlet on her way to find her grandmother after her mysterious disappearance, as well as Wolf appearing on the scene to help her.  At the start, I wasn't sure if he could be trusted or not but by the end I was hooked on the scenes with him and Scarlet and their burgeoning romance.  

Fabulously inventive and original, I love Marissa Meyer's writing and this series is one of my current favourites.  Compulsive reading, I finished 'Scarlet' over the course of one evening.  A simply unputdownable book! 

Still to come in the series are 'Cress' in 2014 and 'Winter' in 2015.  I'm not sure how I'm going to stand the wait! 

Review: Born Wicked - Jessica Spotswood

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood, published by Puffin on 7th February 2013

Goodreads synopsis:
Everybody thinks Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship--or an early grave. Then Cate finds her mother's diary, and uncovers a secret that could spell her family's destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra. But if what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren't safe--not even from each other.

Review:
'Born Wicked' is a fantastic read about three sisters who also happen to be witches.  This is a secret that they must keep even from their father, because it would be far too dangerous for them if the truth was ever discovered.  With no mother to guide them, the oldest sister Cate vows to look after and protect her younger siblings from the Brotherhood, who arrest anyone they suspect to be a witch.  When a new governess arrives to look after them, Cate tries to safeguard their secret but the discovery of a prophecy in her mother's journal about three sisters, puts their future in jeopardy.

If you love witchy stories then you definitely need to pick up this title!  It only took me a few pages to become hooked and then I found it nearly impossible to put down.  Because of the period in which it is set, there is a culture of fear created by The Brotherhood, who warn people against anything to do with witchcraft.  They lecture the town's people regularly about the evils of magic, as well as the fact that women should be obedient to men and often force young girls into marriage.  Cate is headstrong and wishes to choose her own path but wonders whether she would be safer marrying the handsome Paul who she grew up alongside.

I quite liked Paul to start with but my heart was most definitely won over by Finn Belastra, the gorgeous gardener, whose family also owns and runs the local bookshop.  He's intelligent and bookish and utterly wonderful!  I thought he was a much better match for Cate because he treated her like an equal.  He is also fiercely protective of his mother and sister and would do anything for them.  There is one particular scene (those of you who have read it will immediately know which one I'm talking about!) which set my heart fluttering wildly.  It was beautifully written and my favourite moment of the whole book.

Cate and her sisters Tess and Maura each have very different personalities.  I enjoyed reading about each of them, although Cate was my favourite.  Because of their shared secret they are extremely close but don't necessarily have the same plans for their future.  Due to the discovery of an unexpected revelation in the prophecy, it will be interesting to see what happens to this sibling bond in the next instalment of the trilogy.

Because this is a book about witches I was expecting it to verge on the side of the paranormal, but in reality, it actually often came across more as historical fiction which I liked.  There are quite a lot of magical occurences which take place throughout the story but this never distracted from the plot and the character development which was brilliantly executed.     

I'm really looking forward to the story continuing in 'Star Cursed' which will be published in the UK by Puffin in 2014.   

Trailer and Chapter Extract - Born Wicked - Jessica Spotswood

There are lots of books that I'm looking forward to reading in 2013 but one that I have had my eye on for months is 'Born Wicked' by Jessica Spotswood. It's due to be published in the UK by Penguin on 7th February.

Our mother was a witch too, but she hid it better. I miss her.

To me, the magic feels like a curse. According to the Brothers, it's devil-sent. Women who can do magic-they're either mad or wicked. So I will do everything in my power to protect myself and my sisters. Even if it means giving up my life - and my true love.

Because if the Brothers discover our secret, we're destined for the asylum, or prison . . . or death.

Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

News: Beautiful Creatures: Official Illustrated Movie Companion

I'm really looking forward to seeing the big screen adaptation of 'Beautiful Creatures' by Margaret Stohl and Kami Garcia when it hits cinema screens next month. 

Until then Puffin have just published the official illustrated movie companion which looks amazing and should keep fans busy until February.  The cover art is fantastic and if possible, I think I'm even more excited now! 

This ultimate visual companion is lavishly illustrated with full-colour photos of the cast, locations, and sets. With never-before-seen images, exclusive interviews and personal stories, Mark Cotta Vaz takes you behind the scenes with cast and crew, uncovering intimate details of the film-making process.

Review: Gods and Warriors - Michelle Paver

Gods and Warriors by Michelle Paver, published by Puffin on 28th August 2012

Goodreads synopsis:
In the turbulent world of the Mediterranean Bronze Age, long before the Greek myths, a boy and a girl battle for survival. With the help of three animal allies - a dolphin, a falcon and a lion cub - they defeat the forces of tyranny and withstand the elemental powers of the gods of land and sea.

Review:
I'm a huge fan of Michelle Paver and I loved her Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series.  I was therefore massively excited to have an opportunity to review the first book in her brand new series 'Gods and Warriors'.

The story is set during the Bronze Age and features an unlikely hero called Hylas, a twelve year old boy who finds himself being hunted down by rebels at the start of the book.  The beginning is fast paced and incredibly thrilling as Hylas manages to escape but finds himself separated from his younger sister Issi and out in the world on his own.

I thought the setting for the story was wonderful.  Michelle Paver always does such thorough and meticulous research and this pays off with fantastically precise details of Hylas's world.  I found the beliefs of the people of the Bronze Age hugely interesting and enjoyed reading about their connections to the spirits and their rituals in worshipping a greater power.  The descriptions of all the places that Hylas visits in the book are rich and detailed which made them easy to imagine as I was reading.

There are lots of other great characters in the book too, including Pirra who wants to experience freedom but is destined for a marriage she does not want.  Her path eventually crosses with that of Hylas as they each face personal struggles.

One of my favourite things about Paver's books is the way she depicts the relationship between people and animals.  as well as the chapters from Hylas's point of view, there are also the ones seen through the eyes of the dolphin that comes to his rescue.  From the dolphin is conveyed a sense of the vastness and beauty of the ocean and it's hidden depths.  Although animal and boy, the two share a special bond which runs extremely deep.

'Gods and Warriors' is a brilliantly written opening to what promises to be an epic adventure.  Paver is definitely back even better than ever.  This is the first in a five book series, the next of which will be published in 2013, so I'm looking forward immensely to following Hylas on the next stage of his journey.

Review: Wereworld: Nest of Serpents - Curtis Jobling

Wereworld: Nest of Serpents by Curtis Jobling, published by Puffin on 7th June 2012

Goodreads synopsis:
Young Werewolf Drew Ferran, rightful king of Westland, has rushed to the aid of the besieged Staglords, whose mountain stronghold is surrounded by the forces of the Werelion Prince Lucas.

And deep in the haunted Dyrewood forest, the Wereladies Gretchen and Whitley seek sanctuary within the city of Brackenholme. No opposing force has ever breached the palisade walls, but danger could be closer than they think... As Lyssia's greatest war rumbles towards a thunderous climax, the lines between friend and foe are blurred. What if the enemy is one of their own?

Review:
I was super excited when I realised that there was a new book in the Wereworld series out.  After having been left on a cliffhanger at the end of the fourth book, I was eager to pick this one up and start it straight away.

The first part re-introduces the reader to all the characters and picks up the thread of their stories.  Hector, Drew, Whitley and Gretchen, alolng with Drew's brother Trent are scattered throughout Lyssia.  Drew is helping the Staglords defend themselves against the Werelion Prince Lucas, whilst Gretchen and Whitley are headed for Brackenholme and safety.  As the story progresses, an old foe returns to put everyone's lives in danger.

As I've read each book in this series, I've been continually impressed and amazed at the sheer scale and scope of the story and the Wereworld universe.  There's now a huge cast of interesting characters with new faces appearing all the time.  The only problem is keeping track of all of their names! Sometimes I have to check back to make sure I remember who someone is correctly.

I've always made no secret of my love of Hector, the Boarlord.  He's made quite a transformation from the beginning of the series and at times he seems quite unrecognisable from the person that Drew first met.  Without giving anything away, because my lips are firmly sealed, I'm starting to worry that he may finally be beyond redemption.  I'm not sure if there is any way back for him now.  However, there's always hope and I truly believe that although he's done some terrible things, beneath it all is still a heart of gold. 

I also enjoyed getting to see more of Drew's brother Trent who is now repentant about his actions towards his brother and wishes to put things right.  I think there may be a possible romance on the cards between him and another character but I'll have to wait and see.  Gradually all the characters are being drawn back together and I'm looking forward to finally seeing them all reunited. 

Even though Jobling is now on book five, the writing remains wonderfully vivid and the story gets even more engaging with each new instalment.  There are some amazing battle scenes which are brutal, bloody and no holds barred and there's plenty of action and adventure to satisfy readers.  There's a fast and furious pace to the story and I didn't want to put the book down for a single second.

There's an epic quality about this series which I love and I can only hope that Jobling writes fast because I want more now! 

Just a quick note about the cover of the book.  The cover art for the series has been redesigned and published with a whole new look.  I have to say that I preferred the old one and not only because I like all my books in a set to match.