Books

Thirteen Days of Midnight

Thirteen Days of Midnight
Pub date 2nd July 2015
Publisher (UK) Orchard Books
Publisher (US) Candlewick Books
International publishers Rocco (Brazil), Arena (Germany), Anaya Infantil y Juvenil (Spain)

Shortlisted for the Waterstone's Children's Prize 2016

‘It might be wise,’ says the Vassal, ‘to read everything that he left to you. Some of the Host… some of them are dangerous sir. I won’t speak ill—’

‘—of the dead. I know.’

‘Quite, sir. Nevertheless. Your father’s collection was the envy of many who moved in his circles. We are not some flea market amassment of second-rate chain rattlers. We must be managed, as one would manage anything that one knew to be powerful and dangerous.’

When Luke Manchett’s estranged father dies suddenly, he leaves his son a dark inheritance. Luke has been left in charge of his father’s ghost collection; eight restless spirits. They want revenge for their long enslavement, and in the absence of the father, they’re more than happy to take his son. It isn’t fair, but you try and reason with the vengeful dead.

Halloween, the night when the ghosts reach the height of their power, is fast approaching. With the help of school witchlet Elza Moss, and his cowardly dog Ham, Luke has just thirteen days to uncover the closely guarded secrets of black magic, and send the unquiet spirits back to their graves.

 

Praise for Thirteen Days of Midnight

'With well-drawn characters, some truly creepy ghouls, and entertaining banter, this is a self-assured debut that s as funny as it is terrifying.' – Publishers Weekly (starred review)

'A well-constructed, truly unique plot and perfect pacing combine to immediately hook readers, who will be invested in Luke s fate after only a few pages. Luke and Elza are credible and convincing characters: He is funny, likable, and though inexperienced with the paranormal, he is determined. Independent and outspoken Elza shows a spark of her own humor...Fans of Jonathan Stroud s "Lockwood & Co." series are certain to appreciate this unusual and enjoyable title.' – School Library Journal (starred review)

'Hunt keeps tension high but balances it with humor, including a wonderful short episode written from a dog's point of view. The northern English setting adds atmosphere, and Luke's narration is both disarming and amusing. A sprightly, original story with good twists.' – Kirkus Reviews

'Hunt builds suspense as the days to Halloween melt away and creates a sharp contrast between the mundane details of Luke s pedestrian school life with the fresh horror he sees as the veil between the living and the dead grows ever thinner. A solid pick for paranormal enthusiasts.' – Booklist Online

'The frequent dark humor of Luke s narration is balanced by moments of true suspense and satisfyingly complex relationships between Luke and his parents, Elza, the Host, and even his dog (whose touching perspective is revealed in an unexpected way).' – The Horn Book

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