Review: Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor
Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor
What the book is about:
Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor by Lucy Strange and Pam Smy is an enchanting middle-grade mystery packed with spooky charm and heartwarming friendships. The story centres around two unusual kids, Matilda Lockett and Edgar Wilde, as they investigate eerie occurrences at an old, mysterious manor. As they delve deeper into the secrets of the house and its peculiar inhabitants, they uncover hidden truths and encounter ghostly figures that add an extra layer of suspense to the tale. The hand-drawn illustrations by Pam Smy beautifully complement the eerie atmosphere, bringing the quirky characters and haunted setting to life. With a few twists to keep readers guessing, this lighthearted adventure strikes the perfect balance between spooky fun and gentle intrigue, making it a delightful read for all ages who love a ghostly mystery.
Me reading on my iPad
My Reading Experience:
What a spooky and funny read!
From the very first page, I was charmed by the unique characters and captivated by Pam Smy’s stunning artwork. Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries delivered everything I hoped for: a spooky autumn setting, an interesting mystery and a quirky cast of characters. The book’s cover sets the tone for a cosy mystery, and it didn’t disappoint. It’s the kind of book I love to read on a rainy evening, curled up with my cats and a cup of hot chocolate, getting lost in its pages.
The friendship that blossoms between Matilda and Edgar as they team up as supernatural detectives is heartwarming, and their dynamic adds so much to the story’s charm. Their bond grew in such a natural, endearing way that you can’t help but root for them as they uncover the manor's secrets together.
The pacing was spot-on too: the plot unravelled at a steady pace, with lighthearted humour sprinkled throughout, which kept me turning the pages. And yes, I read it in one evening! =)
Illustrations:
The illustrations by Pam Smy really bring the story to life. They are charming, mysterious and beautifully drawn by hand, adding depth and humour to the story. The style fits the lighthearted spooky tone of the book perfectly and every page felt like a treat, pulling you deeper into the eerie yet inviting world of Matilda, Edgar and the haunted manor.
Favourite Moments:
One of the standout moments for me was when Matilda stumbles upon the manor's conservatory. Whenever there’s an old estate in a book and you add a winter garden on top, to me that’s the equivalent of gifting me a cake – with cocoa powder and chocolate crumbling that is!
Matilda is discovering a clue
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Who Will Love This Book:
This book is perfect for readers who love a good mystery with a pinch of humour.
Fall vibes are matched perfectly with spooky artwork, so it’s a good choice if you enjoy reading when it’s raining outside. If you enjoyed The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson and The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane by Julia Nobel, you will surely like this book!
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Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Illustrations: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Big thanks to Walker Books for sending me this ebook!
Details
Title: Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor
Author: Lucy Strange
Illustrator: Pam Smy
Genre: Mystery / Ghost Story
Age Range: Middle Grade
Big thanks to Walker Books for providing me with this digital review copy!
Get the book
Spooky Bookworm Checklist:
Spooky vibes
Ghosts
Cold and windy weather
Old mansion
Mystery
Thematic illustrations
