This is the first novel in the new "Violet Veil Mysteries" by Sophie Cleverly. I am a big fan of this author and thoroughly enjoyed her "Scarlet and Ivy" series which is very popular in our school library, so I was keen to try this one.

Violet was a great character and I loved her greyhound, Bones, who was brave and had a knack for solving mysteries and finding clues. Together with Oliver, Vilet and Bones found themselves trying to solve a number of murders that her father had been accused of.

I also liked that the novel was set in Victorian times as it will give younger readers an idea of the limitations that were placed on girls at that time without being too heavy.

Sophie Cleverly is a clever author who is able to write quick, engaging and suspenseful novels for middle-grade readers, The sense of mystery and danger was apparent without being overly scary and I think students will enjoy following Violet (and Bones) throughout the series as she continues to solve mysteries using her detective skills. An enjoyable read. ( )

#FirstLine - I was born in the mortuary.

I loved this book for so many reasons. It was one of those books that brings history to life and creates an interest in the area for kids. This story is powerful because it focuses on themes that kids may not be aware of. I just loved it and I know young readers will love it too! ( )