Book Review of The Ghost of Midnight Lake
The Children’s Book Review
The Ghost of Midnight Lake
Written by Lucy Strange
Ages 8-12 | 336 Pages
Publisher: Chicken House | ISBN-13: 978-1338686432
What to Expect: Family, bereavement, greed, illicit relationships
The Ghost of Midnight Lake is one of those stories that just cannot be put down until finished.
After her father, the Count of Asquith, dies, Agatha’s world turns upside down. Not only is she now an orphan; it turns out she is also a nobody—not the daughter of the count and countess, not an heiress, and not entitled to anything, according to her cousin Clarence, the heir and new Count of Asquith. Still coming to terms with her grief, she is turned out of the castle and sent to live with a man that Clarence claims is her real father—and a common thief.
As Agatha tries to adjust to her new life, she is smart enough to realize that something is off. Thomas is inherently honest and kind—how can he be a thief? Who was her mother? And why will no one talk to her about the family secrets—the missing opal, a mysterious unmarked grave, and a secret will? As Agatha tries hard to unearth some answers, she finds that there is someone who wants to give them to her—from the other side of the grave.
Aggie is determined, vulnerable, strong, and likable, making her relatable and believable within the novel’s historical setting. The story is exciting, with twists and turns in every chapter and a villain readers will love to hate. Despite the foreboding title, the ghost story itself is uplifting rather than chilling, and the story ends on a heartwarming note. At the same time, there are some essential lessons in the story about finding worth, being true to oneself, and being resilient in the face of change.
Gripping and thought-provoking, The Ghost of Midnight Lake is a novel to recommend.
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About the Author
Lucy Strange worked as an actor, singer, and storyteller before becoming a secondary school English teacher. She lives in Kent, England. The Secret of Nightingale Wood is her first novel.
The Ghost of Midnight Lake by Lucy Strange was reviewed by Dr. Jen Harrison. Discover more books like The Ghost of Midnight Lake by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with family, ghosts, and orphans.
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