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The Witchstone Ghosts
WINNER OF THE TIMES/CHILDREN'S FICTION COMPETITION WINNER OF THE MSLEXIA NOVEL AWARD 'It's exciting and original, warm and funny and gothic' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE Autumn Albert can see the dead – much to her annoyance. But when her dad dies in mysterious circumstances, he’s the one ghost who doesn’t appear. A curious instruction in his will sends Autumn to Imber, the storm-soaked island of his a place marked by tight-lipped locals, strange stacks of witchstones – and even fewer ghosts. Soon Autumn is ensnared in a dark and twisty mystery, which must be unravelled before the sea rises up and history is doomed to repeat itself ...
Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2023
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263 people want to read
About the author
Emily Randall-Jones
2 books15 followersEmily has worked as a touring actor, a princess at Hampton Court and for the National Trust creating experiences for visitors. She’s the winner of both the Mslexia Children’s and YA Novel as well as being longlisted for the Branford Boase award. 'The Scream of the Whistle' - another ghostly MG - is out June 25. She's a proudly neurodivergent single mum and can usually be found foraging for hag stones.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 26, 2025
Autumn is a girl who can see ghosts. And they annoy her wherever she goes. She doesn’t want to see ghosts, she just wants to be normal.
When her dad dies, she thinks her ghost-seeing gift will finally be useful to her. But he never shows up.
Worse, apparently her dad owned a house on an island, which he never told his wife and daughter about. What other secrets could he have been keeping? What other mysteries could there be worth unearthing on the island? And could solving those mysteries be the key to finding her dad’s ghost?
Maybe it’s because I love dogs, but don’t call your dog “The Dog” or “mutt.” If you love your dog, give him a proper name and let him be part of the family.
The island setting definitely comes alive here. The islanders rushing to see the outsiders, hoping to get some new things to gossip about. The island’s own traditions and folk stories about the Sea Witch. The secret doors. Quite atmospheric in the right places too.
The mystery plot is interesting. It has some good twists and turns and a satisfying ending. The protagonist’s motivation is also clear and quite strong, with her wanting to feel closer to her father after his passing and her wanting to see her father’s ghost.
I like the concept of the ghosts in the story, and they are relevant to the plot, but sometimes their inclusion also feels a bit off. In the beginning of the story for example, there’s ghosts everywhere. And once we get to the island, you could forget that the main character can see ghosts for quite a while. This is done for a reason though. There are also moments where we’re supposed to care about the ghosts, but the story could have taken a bit more time to make us care about them as characters first.
It’s a good atmospheric middle grade mystery with some ghosts and a witch as the cherry on the cake.
When her dad dies, she thinks her ghost-seeing gift will finally be useful to her. But he never shows up.
Worse, apparently her dad owned a house on an island, which he never told his wife and daughter about. What other secrets could he have been keeping? What other mysteries could there be worth unearthing on the island? And could solving those mysteries be the key to finding her dad’s ghost?
Maybe it’s because I love dogs, but don’t call your dog “The Dog” or “mutt.” If you love your dog, give him a proper name and let him be part of the family.
The island setting definitely comes alive here. The islanders rushing to see the outsiders, hoping to get some new things to gossip about. The island’s own traditions and folk stories about the Sea Witch. The secret doors. Quite atmospheric in the right places too.
The mystery plot is interesting. It has some good twists and turns and a satisfying ending. The protagonist’s motivation is also clear and quite strong, with her wanting to feel closer to her father after his passing and her wanting to see her father’s ghost.
I like the concept of the ghosts in the story, and they are relevant to the plot, but sometimes their inclusion also feels a bit off. In the beginning of the story for example, there’s ghosts everywhere. And once we get to the island, you could forget that the main character can see ghosts for quite a while. This is done for a reason though. There are also moments where we’re supposed to care about the ghosts, but the story could have taken a bit more time to make us care about them as characters first.
It’s a good atmospheric middle grade mystery with some ghosts and a witch as the cherry on the cake.
August 7, 2023
Couldn't put this one down! Storytelling at its finest. Mystery, atmospheric and genuinely tense towards the end, I had a fantastic time reading this!
November 9, 2023
This was fun! I’ve been quite slumpy so I had to put it down for a while and come back to it, but that’s through no fault of the writing or the book itself.
Autumn is so lovely, a shy child with a gift that allows her to talk to ghosts. This comes at a great cost as she’s always considered the ‘strange girl who talks to herself’. When her own father dies suddenly, Autumn is forced to move to a mysterious Cornish island and is left distraught when her unique powers don’t grant her one last moment with him, and she’s keen to get to the bottom of why!
This book was very sweet. It explored the lore and magic of Imber in a way that was intriguing without being overcomplicated (or a total info dump) which made for an easy reading experience. I also found it had a solid slow burn build up to the big reveal at the end, with some great foreshadowing and a fun mystery that entangled with the island’s history as well as Autumn’s personal life.
Autumn is so lovely, a shy child with a gift that allows her to talk to ghosts. This comes at a great cost as she’s always considered the ‘strange girl who talks to herself’. When her own father dies suddenly, Autumn is forced to move to a mysterious Cornish island and is left distraught when her unique powers don’t grant her one last moment with him, and she’s keen to get to the bottom of why!
This book was very sweet. It explored the lore and magic of Imber in a way that was intriguing without being overcomplicated (or a total info dump) which made for an easy reading experience. I also found it had a solid slow burn build up to the big reveal at the end, with some great foreshadowing and a fun mystery that entangled with the island’s history as well as Autumn’s personal life.
October 13, 2024
PERFECTION. One of the best kids books I’ve ever read. Full of emotion and mystery and completely original. Emily is one to watch!!
July 28, 2024
As atmospheric as the island of Imber, off the coast of Cornwall, where most of the action takes place, The Witchstone Ghosts had me intrigued from page one and then gripped until the last page.
I loved how the book starts starts slap bang in the middle of some ghostly goings on. It’s clear that Autumn is extraordinary from the off and her ability to commune with spirits is part of who she is. Autumn is navigating life with her special ability, which although obviously REALLY COOL, can be intrusive and overwhelming for a 12 year old with all of the usual pressures to deal with. It is also without doubt part of the reason for her isolation from her peers: her only real friend has been dead for well over 100 years!
Soon, Autumn’s dad disappears, feared drowned. When his will leaves directions for Autumn and her mum to move to the island of Imber, doubt is poured on everything they’ve known and it seems her dad has been concealing something from them. These secrets are, however, shrouded in mystery. Will visiting the island uncover the truth and help Autumn reconnect with her father, who seems like the only ghost who won’t turn up in her life!
I loved the way the story interacts with generations old folklore, folk music and the geography of this wild coastline. I loved the timeless, land that time forgot quality of life on the island despite the contemporary setting, which added to the mystery and magic of the place.
A great read. I know a group of children who would absolutely LOVE this and can’t wait to recommend it in September.
For fans of Lucy Strange and Francis Hardinge
I loved how the book starts starts slap bang in the middle of some ghostly goings on. It’s clear that Autumn is extraordinary from the off and her ability to commune with spirits is part of who she is. Autumn is navigating life with her special ability, which although obviously REALLY COOL, can be intrusive and overwhelming for a 12 year old with all of the usual pressures to deal with. It is also without doubt part of the reason for her isolation from her peers: her only real friend has been dead for well over 100 years!
Soon, Autumn’s dad disappears, feared drowned. When his will leaves directions for Autumn and her mum to move to the island of Imber, doubt is poured on everything they’ve known and it seems her dad has been concealing something from them. These secrets are, however, shrouded in mystery. Will visiting the island uncover the truth and help Autumn reconnect with her father, who seems like the only ghost who won’t turn up in her life!
I loved the way the story interacts with generations old folklore, folk music and the geography of this wild coastline. I loved the timeless, land that time forgot quality of life on the island despite the contemporary setting, which added to the mystery and magic of the place.
A great read. I know a group of children who would absolutely LOVE this and can’t wait to recommend it in September.
For fans of Lucy Strange and Francis Hardinge
October 3, 2023
Set on the windswept island of Imber just off the coast of Cornwall, 12-year-old Autumn is swept into a world of mystery and folklore after the disappearance of her father. Yet the ghosts that Autumn so often encounters in her hometown of London are scarcely seen on this rural island.
With a host of brilliant characters including Autumn herself, her best friend Jack and her beloved dog, the story takes the reader on an adventure that’s hard not to love. The writing is very atmospheric and bewitching, making you feel as though you are in Imber yourself.
The story has family at its centre as well as the message of finding the courage to be true to yourself. It has manageable chapters and a great character at its heart. A brilliant read that fans of Lucy Strange, Helen Duggan and Lisa Thompson will surly love.
With a host of brilliant characters including Autumn herself, her best friend Jack and her beloved dog, the story takes the reader on an adventure that’s hard not to love. The writing is very atmospheric and bewitching, making you feel as though you are in Imber yourself.
The story has family at its centre as well as the message of finding the courage to be true to yourself. It has manageable chapters and a great character at its heart. A brilliant read that fans of Lucy Strange, Helen Duggan and Lisa Thompson will surly love.
August 5, 2023
I absolutely loved this book - a haunting, dreamy story of Autumn Albert, who can see ghosts, and her search to find the story of her dad when he dies and does not come to find her. I loved how atmospheric this was, how real the island of Imber felt and how much music and sound was wound all the way through the story.
Autumn's dog was a great little touch of humour to lighten some dark moments, and the relationships Autumn builds with her mum, ghosts Jack and Lily and the mysterious Lamorna were so believeable and wonderful. I couldn't put this down and just had to keep reading the next chapter, the next chapter. Beautifully told.
Autumn's dog was a great little touch of humour to lighten some dark moments, and the relationships Autumn builds with her mum, ghosts Jack and Lily and the mysterious Lamorna were so believeable and wonderful. I couldn't put this down and just had to keep reading the next chapter, the next chapter. Beautifully told.
August 6, 2023
Absolutely tore through this one. A fantastic spooky-ghost-filled mystery set on a rainy Cornish island…perfect setting for a spooky story. It does get a bit dark as a warning but nothing kids who’ve read Harry Potter can’t handle. Loved her best friend, loved the mystery, the lore behind witch stones. Well done.
September 2, 2025
Cute, mysterious but nothing to write home about (sorry) will read more from this author tho, liked the writing
July 27, 2024
I love a middle-grade book every so often and this one was very sweet. The main theme is about accepting yourself, no matter what, which is obviously a great message to such young children.
The font in this book is huge, which is great for younger readers, but I think it actually could have been scaled down a bit. It would be a smaller page count, but the age this is aimed at (think David Walliams or Jacqueline Wilson) has a smaller font. I also would have liked the scenes to be a bit more drawn out, as they seem quite choppy and quick. Otherwise I really enjoyed this, and would pass this on happily to the children in my family/friend circle.
The font in this book is huge, which is great for younger readers, but I think it actually could have been scaled down a bit. It would be a smaller page count, but the age this is aimed at (think David Walliams or Jacqueline Wilson) has a smaller font. I also would have liked the scenes to be a bit more drawn out, as they seem quite choppy and quick. Otherwise I really enjoyed this, and would pass this on happily to the children in my family/friend circle.
September 19, 2023
Summary:
The Witchstone Ghosts is Emily Randall-Jones debut novel and was the winner of the Mslexia Children's and YA Novel prize, as well as the 2021 Times/Chicken House award.
Autumn wishes she was an ordinary girl – and she is, of course excluding the fact she can see dead people and they her. On an unsuspecting day, Autumn arrives to school late (again, thanks to the ghost constantly trying to hinder her progress) to find her Mum waiting for her with the unfortunate news her father had died. In the throes of grief, Autumn, her mother, a ghostly chum and their flatulent hound are forced to relocate to Imber, a small island off the coast of Cornwall. But things didn’t add up – why would her father send them to a house he had never spoken of? Thrust into a quest for answers, whilst trying to embrace the change, Autumn is sent on a quiet adventure into the folklore-steeped past of the island, her father and what will be her future.
I read the standard, £7.99 paperback edition (346 pages, including the acknowledgments). I appreciate that the publisher, Chicken House, includes a “try it!” page and a “this book in three words” summary, I think it is a wonderful way to engage children, especially. In this case, the three words were: haunting, gothic, adventure…I’m hooked! The artwork on the cover is lovely and captures the atmosphere.
My thoughts:
The Witchstone Ghosts was a charming novel, concocted with some of my favourite elements: magic, music, secrets and mysteries resolved in myth – and so I was able to read it in a single sitting.
The author created believable, but equally complex characters that complimented the exciting settings, producing a beautiful narrative. Randall-Jones’ storytelling ability was evident throughout, with the eloquent exploration of young Autumn’s thoughts and feelings being exemplary. The writing style was easily digestible, but evocative and imaginative in an engaging way. I am always dazzled, when reading books for younger age groups, that so much imagery can be made by so few words, and think it really speaks to the author’s talent. She used an appropriate amount of awarding foreshadowing (and I think many children would pick up upon, making it a good option for a book club/classroom library) and created a bit of a puzzle to work out alongside the protagonist. The short chapters mean that the story is constantly evolving and the pace variable, making it quite accessible for a range of readers.
Read my full review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
The Witchstone Ghosts is Emily Randall-Jones debut novel and was the winner of the Mslexia Children's and YA Novel prize, as well as the 2021 Times/Chicken House award.
Autumn wishes she was an ordinary girl – and she is, of course excluding the fact she can see dead people and they her. On an unsuspecting day, Autumn arrives to school late (again, thanks to the ghost constantly trying to hinder her progress) to find her Mum waiting for her with the unfortunate news her father had died. In the throes of grief, Autumn, her mother, a ghostly chum and their flatulent hound are forced to relocate to Imber, a small island off the coast of Cornwall. But things didn’t add up – why would her father send them to a house he had never spoken of? Thrust into a quest for answers, whilst trying to embrace the change, Autumn is sent on a quiet adventure into the folklore-steeped past of the island, her father and what will be her future.
I read the standard, £7.99 paperback edition (346 pages, including the acknowledgments). I appreciate that the publisher, Chicken House, includes a “try it!” page and a “this book in three words” summary, I think it is a wonderful way to engage children, especially. In this case, the three words were: haunting, gothic, adventure…I’m hooked! The artwork on the cover is lovely and captures the atmosphere.
My thoughts:
The Witchstone Ghosts was a charming novel, concocted with some of my favourite elements: magic, music, secrets and mysteries resolved in myth – and so I was able to read it in a single sitting.
The author created believable, but equally complex characters that complimented the exciting settings, producing a beautiful narrative. Randall-Jones’ storytelling ability was evident throughout, with the eloquent exploration of young Autumn’s thoughts and feelings being exemplary. The writing style was easily digestible, but evocative and imaginative in an engaging way. I am always dazzled, when reading books for younger age groups, that so much imagery can be made by so few words, and think it really speaks to the author’s talent. She used an appropriate amount of awarding foreshadowing (and I think many children would pick up upon, making it a good option for a book club/classroom library) and created a bit of a puzzle to work out alongside the protagonist. The short chapters mean that the story is constantly evolving and the pace variable, making it quite accessible for a range of readers.
Read my full review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...
October 12, 2025
(4,5 stars) I've said it before and I'll say it again, middle-grade books are where the heat is at. If you're looking for a fun, adventurous adventure this is the thing you should be reading.
Are you in the mood for a little mystery? Do you like to read about ghosts? Does the sea call to you? Then this is the book for you!
Autumn is a lovely protagonist in which a lot of young girls will probably recognize themselves. She's a bit different from the rest and it's difficult for her to make friends. I really enjoyed her journey from being a shy wallflower to a more confident girl. She's incredibly funny, says the sweetest things and deserves the world. My heart genuinely broke when I read how she felt about being lonely and not having many friends. (She reminds me of my first ever dnd character, Eleanora). The other characters are also great! They have solid backstories and their actions match their beliefs.
Another thing that I really enjoyed was the amazing folklore that fuels the entire plot of the book. Myths & legends have always been a major part of human history, but we seem to have lost this for the greater part. So, introducing children to witch stones (also known as hag stones), and other sea related folklore is amazing. In addition, it created this fantastical yet slightly unsettling atmosphere.
There are quite a few themes in this book that are important for kids to read about. Unconditional love, not giving up, believing in yourself, embracing the weird, dealing with loss etc. I thought the author handled these themes with grace. It's not sugarcoated, but it's also not too harshly written. I think kids (and adults like me) could learn a lot from it.
I loved this one. I'll definitely keep it in mind to recommend it to my students (and adult friends, because y'all should really get into middle grade fiction).
Are you in the mood for a little mystery? Do you like to read about ghosts? Does the sea call to you? Then this is the book for you!
Autumn is a lovely protagonist in which a lot of young girls will probably recognize themselves. She's a bit different from the rest and it's difficult for her to make friends. I really enjoyed her journey from being a shy wallflower to a more confident girl. She's incredibly funny, says the sweetest things and deserves the world. My heart genuinely broke when I read how she felt about being lonely and not having many friends. (She reminds me of my first ever dnd character, Eleanora). The other characters are also great! They have solid backstories and their actions match their beliefs.
Another thing that I really enjoyed was the amazing folklore that fuels the entire plot of the book. Myths & legends have always been a major part of human history, but we seem to have lost this for the greater part. So, introducing children to witch stones (also known as hag stones), and other sea related folklore is amazing. In addition, it created this fantastical yet slightly unsettling atmosphere.
There are quite a few themes in this book that are important for kids to read about. Unconditional love, not giving up, believing in yourself, embracing the weird, dealing with loss etc. I thought the author handled these themes with grace. It's not sugarcoated, but it's also not too harshly written. I think kids (and adults like me) could learn a lot from it.
I loved this one. I'll definitely keep it in mind to recommend it to my students (and adult friends, because y'all should really get into middle grade fiction).
December 15, 2023
Autumn sees ghosts everywhere, distracting her no matter where she is. Not all the ghosts are annoying though - in fact her best friend Jack is a ghost. But, when her dad dies she doesn't see his ghost. A cruel irony that keeps her looking for him.
When her dad's will is read his instructions are to return to his childhood home, a storm ravaged island where Autumn becomes part of a spooky and intense mystery.
This ghost story is unique and draws you in from the beginning with its quirky ghosts and intrigue. Autumn is a very likeable character and I was quickly invested in her journey. Serious subjects of grief and dementia are handled sensitively - the story's humour and mystery reducing the intensity without undermining the seriousness.
I was gripped by the heartfelt mystery that takes many twists and scary turns. I honestly didn't know what was going to happen next! The rich varied settings, from London to the Island are tangible and brought alive by the ghosts in each place. From a tube station platform to a stormy island hiding chilling secrets - all work together to immerse the reader in Autumn's spooky and emotional experience!
The short chapters kept me turning pages at a fast pace, which may suit children who find longer chapters overwhelming. My favourite character other than Autumn is probably Jack the chimney sweep ghost, but all the story's characters are wonderfully vivid and engaging.
I loved reading The Witch-stone Ghosts and would highly recommend it to ages 8 -108+.
When her dad's will is read his instructions are to return to his childhood home, a storm ravaged island where Autumn becomes part of a spooky and intense mystery.
This ghost story is unique and draws you in from the beginning with its quirky ghosts and intrigue. Autumn is a very likeable character and I was quickly invested in her journey. Serious subjects of grief and dementia are handled sensitively - the story's humour and mystery reducing the intensity without undermining the seriousness.
I was gripped by the heartfelt mystery that takes many twists and scary turns. I honestly didn't know what was going to happen next! The rich varied settings, from London to the Island are tangible and brought alive by the ghosts in each place. From a tube station platform to a stormy island hiding chilling secrets - all work together to immerse the reader in Autumn's spooky and emotional experience!
The short chapters kept me turning pages at a fast pace, which may suit children who find longer chapters overwhelming. My favourite character other than Autumn is probably Jack the chimney sweep ghost, but all the story's characters are wonderfully vivid and engaging.
I loved reading The Witch-stone Ghosts and would highly recommend it to ages 8 -108+.
January 19, 2024
Since reading this stunning debut, I can see why it won the prestigious Times and Chicken House competition! The story follows 12-year-old Autumn, a lonely girl who can see dead people. But when her dad dies, his ghost is the only one she can’t see. Things become stranger when his will stipulates that Autumn and her mum have inherited his childhood home which they didn’t know existed, on condition they move there. As instructed, they leave London and relocate to the strange and stormy island called Imber. A heartfelt mystery unfolds from there, where Autumn tries to discover where her father’s ghost is and why his childhood is shrouded in secrets.
Autumn is an interesting and quirky character who I was rooting for from the first chapter. Her ghostly best friend Jack, a Victorian chimney sweep, added a dash of humour to this otherwise spooky and gothic story. The stormy setting of Imber was so immersive and atmospheric it had me captivated, especially when contrasted with the London setting at the start. This story has lyrical prose, sea shanties, quirky characters, ghosts, storm ravaged setting, hooky mystery and the emotional journey of a young girl trying to piece together the puzzle that was her father.
This story appealed to both my 12-year-old daughter who is in target age range and myself so I would also recommend it to both adults as well as children. I’m a sucker for gothic fiction and fell in love with everything about this MG classic.
Autumn is an interesting and quirky character who I was rooting for from the first chapter. Her ghostly best friend Jack, a Victorian chimney sweep, added a dash of humour to this otherwise spooky and gothic story. The stormy setting of Imber was so immersive and atmospheric it had me captivated, especially when contrasted with the London setting at the start. This story has lyrical prose, sea shanties, quirky characters, ghosts, storm ravaged setting, hooky mystery and the emotional journey of a young girl trying to piece together the puzzle that was her father.
This story appealed to both my 12-year-old daughter who is in target age range and myself so I would also recommend it to both adults as well as children. I’m a sucker for gothic fiction and fell in love with everything about this MG classic.
September 2, 2023
Autumn has always been able to see ghosts, like her friend Jack – a Victorian chimney sweep, but when her Dad tragically dies, there’s no sign of his ghost anywhere. And even worse, his will compels Autumn and her Mum to leave their home in London and move to a tiny, stormy Cornish island called Imber. Imber, unlike London, is surprisingly devoid of ghosts. Autumn enjoys the peace and quiet, and even makes her first real-live friend, but the island is hiding a sinister secret and time is running out for her to unravel the mystery of the witchstones.
‘The Witchstone Ghosts’ is a dark and captivating story, full of rich details and humorous quips. Autumn is an engaging heroine and I particularly enjoyed the relationships she has with her embarrassing mum and her cockney ghost buddy, Jack. The plot had plenty of twists and turns and I had some theories about the Island of Imber and its inhabitants but I was wrong!
Can you have a lively ghost story? I think so. I was thoroughly swept away by this lively, atmospheric ghost story and it is perfect for fans of Catherine Doyle’s ‘The Storm Keeper’s Island’ and Victoria Schwab’s ‘City of Ghosts’ series.
And what a gorgeous cover design by Micaela Alcaino – I love the colours in particular, and the illustrations!
Thanks to Chicken House for the ARC.
‘The Witchstone Ghosts’ is a dark and captivating story, full of rich details and humorous quips. Autumn is an engaging heroine and I particularly enjoyed the relationships she has with her embarrassing mum and her cockney ghost buddy, Jack. The plot had plenty of twists and turns and I had some theories about the Island of Imber and its inhabitants but I was wrong!
Can you have a lively ghost story? I think so. I was thoroughly swept away by this lively, atmospheric ghost story and it is perfect for fans of Catherine Doyle’s ‘The Storm Keeper’s Island’ and Victoria Schwab’s ‘City of Ghosts’ series.
And what a gorgeous cover design by Micaela Alcaino – I love the colours in particular, and the illustrations!
Thanks to Chicken House for the ARC.
September 17, 2023
Autumn sees ghosts. She’d rather she didn’t, because her peers shun her, thinking she’s weird for talking “to herself”. But when her father is killed in a boating accident she’s distraught that she can’t see his ghost. Stranger still, his will sends her and her mother out of London and to a remote, strange island off the coast of Cornwall. Where is the haunting singing coming from? What’s the meaning of the tower of witchstones by the ruined church? What does Fred, their neighbour with dementia, see when he barks, “You shouldn’t be here”? And what is Dad’s connection with this place?
As Autumn finally makes a friend in Lamorna, the daughter of the lord of the isle, the mystery thickens then spills over into danger that puts Autumn’s life in peril. With an anxious but brave heroine, a loveable dog, a chimney-sweep ghost, a furious storm, an ancient legend and a mad lord, this is a thoroughly readable and cleverly plotted book that I raced through.
As Autumn finally makes a friend in Lamorna, the daughter of the lord of the isle, the mystery thickens then spills over into danger that puts Autumn’s life in peril. With an anxious but brave heroine, a loveable dog, a chimney-sweep ghost, a furious storm, an ancient legend and a mad lord, this is a thoroughly readable and cleverly plotted book that I raced through.
March 18, 2024
Autumn is inundated with ghosts trying to get her attention, but the one ghost she can't seem to find is her father's. After his death, she and her mother are obligated to move to the island where her dad grew up. It's a cold, rainy place and neither of them are thrilled to be uprooted there!
Imber is a peculiar island but the strangest thing to Autumn is how rare ghosts are. However, she still hopes to find out what happened to her dad and why she hasn't been able to contact him.
There are many mysteries and lots of twisty happenings throughout the book and it was gripping, trying to figure out how everything would fit together.
Autumn is a lovely protagonist and I enjoyed finding out all the folklore of the island.
This was a great book for for buddy reading, we had lots of theories and there was so much to discuss!
Imber is a peculiar island but the strangest thing to Autumn is how rare ghosts are. However, she still hopes to find out what happened to her dad and why she hasn't been able to contact him.
There are many mysteries and lots of twisty happenings throughout the book and it was gripping, trying to figure out how everything would fit together.
Autumn is a lovely protagonist and I enjoyed finding out all the folklore of the island.
This was a great book for for buddy reading, we had lots of theories and there was so much to discuss!
March 29, 2024
I was hooked by the premise of this book and it did not disappoint. Wonderfully atmospheric with a relatable main character, Autumn, the story moves along at pace (with short chapters encouraging "just one more" before bedtime!).
Autumn is very unusual; she sees dead people. But the one ghost she wants to see (her recently deceased dad) doesn't appear. Sent to live on the remote island of Imber thanks to the terms of her dad's will, Autumn tries to start afresh. But she can't resist trying to work out how to find his ghost - with help of her best friend (a fab chimney sweep ghost called Jack).
I would describe the story as gently dark, as it touches on quite dark themes but in a way that is completely appropriate for the target age group.
I really enjoyed how even the tiniest details had a role in Autumn piecing together the mystery of Imber. A cracking read.
Autumn is very unusual; she sees dead people. But the one ghost she wants to see (her recently deceased dad) doesn't appear. Sent to live on the remote island of Imber thanks to the terms of her dad's will, Autumn tries to start afresh. But she can't resist trying to work out how to find his ghost - with help of her best friend (a fab chimney sweep ghost called Jack).
I would describe the story as gently dark, as it touches on quite dark themes but in a way that is completely appropriate for the target age group.
I really enjoyed how even the tiniest details had a role in Autumn piecing together the mystery of Imber. A cracking read.
September 14, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. There are Folk Horror vibes that are reminiscent of The Wicker Man, but told in a child friendly way that fits the Middle Grade (age 9 plus) age group. The writing has a gorgeous quality with lots of imagery that really evokes a spooky island vibe and a closed community hiding secrets. It's like the Sixth Sense meets The Wicker Man with all the fun and adventure you want in a story for younger (and older!) readers with lots of twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat and rooting for the main character, Autumn. I can highly recommended The Witchstone Ghosts.
October 20, 2023
An atmospheric novel to have read during the recent storm! Autumn is a brilliant protagonist - full of self-doubt and just wanting to blend in. She wants a friend. She wants to be normal. And so many readers will relate to that. But Autumn is special - she can see ghosts. And when twists take turns in her life she finds herself on the strange island of Imber which is steeped in sea shanties, and witch folklore. But where does Autumn fit in?
Wonderfully paced writing that will keep you turning page after page, reading beyond bedtime by the light of a torch. Magical. In all the meanings of the word!
Wonderfully paced writing that will keep you turning page after page, reading beyond bedtime by the light of a torch. Magical. In all the meanings of the word!
May 5, 2025
It's a very readable, fast-paced book focusing on a little girl who can see ghosts and whose entire life gets upended.
There are some ups and downs, a couple places where I felt quite disappointed with our heroine Autumn, but by the end of it all she redeems herself quite equitably.
It's got mystery, it's got ghosts, it's definitely a bit gothic in style and overall it's just a good bit of fun. Has a very happy ending considering where it started and features a theme of finding one's place in the world and accepting one's self that's not forced upon you. Comes across very organic and, as I say, very enjoyable.
There are some ups and downs, a couple places where I felt quite disappointed with our heroine Autumn, but by the end of it all she redeems herself quite equitably.
It's got mystery, it's got ghosts, it's definitely a bit gothic in style and overall it's just a good bit of fun. Has a very happy ending considering where it started and features a theme of finding one's place in the world and accepting one's self that's not forced upon you. Comes across very organic and, as I say, very enjoyable.
September 21, 2025
Read this for my daughter (almost 8) as it was in the children's section and is the kind of genre she likes, but it definitely felt a bit too old, too scary for a child. It's a bit like it's between age groups, it might slightly too juvenile for young adult, but it's definitely not a kid friendly bedtime story kind of book either. The story and writing were good, I just really am not sure of the age bracket I'd aim it at and maybe there should be a little age advice on the back. 11-12 year olds it would suit, not 7/8 year olds, but it's shelved along side younger audience books in our library so we didn't expect such a dark theme.
January 30, 2024
The most gorgeously spooky tale about a girl called Autumn who can see the dead. I was swept up in her quest to unravel the dark secrets of Imber island and to discover what happened to her missing father. With plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end, it's a story that has stayed with me like all the best stories should.
September 14, 2023
Thank you to Chicken House for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The perfect book for autumn! Spooky, atmospheric, and enchanting - this book has an amazing mystery and a great female main character!
The perfect book for autumn! Spooky, atmospheric, and enchanting - this book has an amazing mystery and a great female main character!
September 18, 2023
A gothic adventure that is an absolute treat! So atmospheric and pacy, with brilliant characters - including loveable ghosts and a terribly wicked villian - this was impossible to put down. Immediately passed to my 9-year-old niece who is loving it too!
October 1, 2023
Really lovely adventure story.
October 14, 2023
Gorgeous world building and a light touch so hard to achieve. Loved the short chapters constantly moving forward. Great twist. Loved it.
November 2, 2023
I have to say, this was a bit of an odd one. I felt the beginning was rushed, but needed to make the ending make sense. I did like how everything tied together. Some twists I didn’t see coming.
November 4, 2023
3.75 stars. Not what I expected, but still a nice story, well thought out, with all ends wraped up.
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