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Elston-Fright Tales #2
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright
Being a Lightkeeper is Very Serious Business.
Nobody in Elston-Fright believes in magic anymore. Well, nobody except for Flip Little, his nan and his a girl called Corpse, a ghost called Girl and a very large spider called Simon.
But when Simon is spider-napped by ancient weather ghouls called the Poltergusts, Flip and his ghostly companions turn to the last Lightkeeper's journals for answers. To rescue their friend, they will need to find and return the missing Light to the lighthouse, restoring its lost magic.
Only nothing in Elston-Fright is as it seems. Questions bubble up from the deep. Dark secrets come to light. And pretty soon, Flip and his friends learn that in order to save the future of Elston-Fright, they'll first need to understand its past.
Nobody in Elston-Fright believes in magic anymore. Well, nobody except for Flip Little, his nan and his a girl called Corpse, a ghost called Girl and a very large spider called Simon.
But when Simon is spider-napped by ancient weather ghouls called the Poltergusts, Flip and his ghostly companions turn to the last Lightkeeper's journals for answers. To rescue their friend, they will need to find and return the missing Light to the lighthouse, restoring its lost magic.
Only nothing in Elston-Fright is as it seems. Questions bubble up from the deep. Dark secrets come to light. And pretty soon, Flip and his friends learn that in order to save the future of Elston-Fright, they'll first need to understand its past.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2023
3 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 4, 2023
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The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is book two featuring Corpse (a girl made of wax and seaweed), Girl (a ghost) and Flip (a young boy). The story reads well as a standalone and includes some backstory but you will want to read book one, A Girl Called Corpse. It's the book that endeared me to Corpse.
Flip has a greater role in this book as the three friends face a new danger in the Poltergusts (malevolent winds) and embark on a mission to find the light.
Reece Carter has come through with another highly imaginative tale rich in danger, suspense and magical battles. Both Flip and Corpse learn some truths about their family's past and that friendship is the strongest magic of all.
The addition of a new magical creature, the seafoam sprites added another level of fantastical appeal. But are they friend or foe?
Told through the alternating voice of Corpse and Flip we see both characters embrace bravery and true friendship. Girl seems to be a side character in this book so I do hope she gets a bit more purpose in book three.
There is a subtle lesson included about doing the right thing even if it is a difficult choice.
The story ends on a breath-holding cliff hanger leaving me eager for the next book.
The wonderful black and white sketched illustrations by Simon Howe add a visual dimension to the story.
*I received my copy from the publisher
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is book two featuring Corpse (a girl made of wax and seaweed), Girl (a ghost) and Flip (a young boy). The story reads well as a standalone and includes some backstory but you will want to read book one, A Girl Called Corpse. It's the book that endeared me to Corpse.
Flip has a greater role in this book as the three friends face a new danger in the Poltergusts (malevolent winds) and embark on a mission to find the light.
Reece Carter has come through with another highly imaginative tale rich in danger, suspense and magical battles. Both Flip and Corpse learn some truths about their family's past and that friendship is the strongest magic of all.
The addition of a new magical creature, the seafoam sprites added another level of fantastical appeal. But are they friend or foe?
Told through the alternating voice of Corpse and Flip we see both characters embrace bravery and true friendship. Girl seems to be a side character in this book so I do hope she gets a bit more purpose in book three.
There is a subtle lesson included about doing the right thing even if it is a difficult choice.
The story ends on a breath-holding cliff hanger leaving me eager for the next book.
The wonderful black and white sketched illustrations by Simon Howe add a visual dimension to the story.
*I received my copy from the publisher
October 28, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to listen to in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
***AUDIO BOOK VERSION***
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is a fun audio book for middle-graders about a boy called Flip Little who still believes in magic although everyone else in Elston-Fright seems to anymore (except his gran and his new friends who are all ghosts).
When his friends pet spider Simon gets spider-napped by the weather ghouls (the Poultrrgusts) who have appeared at the island, Flip and his friends are frantically trying to find a way to get him back. They turn to the Last Lightkerpers journals to try to find a way to do this and find their next challenge and adventure awaiting them. As they uncover dark secrets and explore the past history of Elston-Fright for answers, they have to pull together and use their friendship and the kindness between them to save the day.
This was a fun listen, and I enjoyed the narration and pace of the story. This would make a great listen for any child aged 8+, especially for Halloween.
***AUDIO BOOK VERSION***
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is a fun audio book for middle-graders about a boy called Flip Little who still believes in magic although everyone else in Elston-Fright seems to anymore (except his gran and his new friends who are all ghosts).
When his friends pet spider Simon gets spider-napped by the weather ghouls (the Poultrrgusts) who have appeared at the island, Flip and his friends are frantically trying to find a way to get him back. They turn to the Last Lightkerpers journals to try to find a way to do this and find their next challenge and adventure awaiting them. As they uncover dark secrets and explore the past history of Elston-Fright for answers, they have to pull together and use their friendship and the kindness between them to save the day.
This was a fun listen, and I enjoyed the narration and pace of the story. This would make a great listen for any child aged 8+, especially for Halloween.
December 5, 2023
What I love about middle grade books is how they're usually filled with kindness and friendship.
This one, a sequel to a fun debut novel called A Girl Called Corpse, is like that. As you can imagine with a book that features a literal corpse, her ghost friend, Girl as well as a human boy called Flip as protagonists, the adventures and challenges that our little group of misfits go through are tinged with darkness and heavier themes like grief and pretty complex moral issues. I loved the balance of wholesome story for a young audience and more complex themes, because a) children are smarter than we give them credit for and b) this makes the book enjoyable for adults too.
This one, a sequel to a fun debut novel called A Girl Called Corpse, is like that. As you can imagine with a book that features a literal corpse, her ghost friend, Girl as well as a human boy called Flip as protagonists, the adventures and challenges that our little group of misfits go through are tinged with darkness and heavier themes like grief and pretty complex moral issues. I loved the balance of wholesome story for a young audience and more complex themes, because a) children are smarter than we give them credit for and b) this makes the book enjoyable for adults too.
October 24, 2023
The definitely starts with a punch of activities, followed by the introduction of a group that still believes in magic, even though no one else on Elston-Fright does. I do have to mention that one of the members of this group is a ghost 👻 and there are several other fascinating creatures in the book that got me hooked.
I do feel that this book will work for a middle-grade audience, especially if they don't read that often as the magical storyline is interesting. But for avid readers, I do feel the end could be a bit disappointing as it's not that novel and appears to be an expected outcome.
Thank you @netgalley @herbnerdreece @allenandunwin and @bolindaaudio for the cute Audiobook ARC.
Genre: #middlegrade #fantasy
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
I do feel that this book will work for a middle-grade audience, especially if they don't read that often as the magical storyline is interesting. But for avid readers, I do feel the end could be a bit disappointing as it's not that novel and appears to be an expected outcome.
Thank you @netgalley @herbnerdreece @allenandunwin and @bolindaaudio for the cute Audiobook ARC.
Genre: #middlegrade #fantasy
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
August 21, 2024
Enjoyed it as an adult. Would have loved it as a kid.
A nice bit of imaginative fantasy derring-do. Fast paced, with original characters, keeping the attention all the way through.
I wanted to see more of Mr McKraken the were-squid...
As an adult, there were a few deus-ex moments but they wouldn't have bothered me as a child.
There are some nice moral ambiguities as well about just who is the hero and how to reconcile the actions of our ancestors.
If you child likes this sort of book, buy them a copy.
A nice bit of imaginative fantasy derring-do. Fast paced, with original characters, keeping the attention all the way through.
I wanted to see more of Mr McKraken the were-squid...
As an adult, there were a few deus-ex moments but they wouldn't have bothered me as a child.
There are some nice moral ambiguities as well about just who is the hero and how to reconcile the actions of our ancestors.
If you child likes this sort of book, buy them a copy.
October 21, 2023
Elston Fright is a small coastal town with a history of magic. This history is all but forgotten, especially as the powers that be have denied it ever happened.
But one boy named Flip knows there is still plenty of mystical things happening around them. After all, his three best friends are Girl (a ghost that can’t be seen except when she’s wearing the gloves and cape he gave her,) Corpse (another ghost who has made herself a body out of stolen wax, shells, teeth and seaweed) and Simon (a giant spider who can understand them but talks in clicks).
Flip Little lives in the town lighthouse with his grandmother. This lighthouse was once extremely important to Elston Fright, as the light it emitted was particularly special. It didn’t just serve the ships of the region, it repelled bad magic. But this light has long gone, way back in Flip’s grandfather’s day of being the town lightkeeper. He was from a long line of lightkeepers in their family.
One day Flip notices something strange in the air around the lighthouse. It isn’t a thing or a someone, it’s a wrongness that is hard to explain. After past adventures with his ghost and spider friends and terrible magic, he knows he must report this phenomenon to them immediately. Rowing out to their home on a rock not far from shore, the full horror of this wrongness reveals itself – and kidnaps Simon.
Flip, Corpse, Girl and with a little help from Girl’s octopus friend, Mr McKraken; they begin looking for clues to help unravel the strange air currents and get their furry friend back.
Along the way with Girl and Mr McKraken at hand, Flip discovers terrible truths about his family’s legacy of light, and Corpse learns more about her lost parents. The weird wind gusts are Poltergusts, greedy for magic. They will do anything and hurt anyone in their desire to collect it. Using Flip’s grandad’s diary, meeting new creatures small but mighty, and relying on each others’ love and loyalty, they fight back to reclaim their friend.
It seems even more adults in their lives have kept secrets and told lies about the history of their town. Will Corpse, Flip and Girl ever get to the bottom of it all?
The second in this ghostly but fun trilogy, the story is told in the two viewpoints of Flip Little and Corpse. Learning more about the history of Elston Fright was intriguing and seeing the trio work together in a quest to save their furry spider friend, endearing.
A few shocks along the way kept me reading and guessing at the true history of the lighthouse and it’s lightkeepers, and the epilogue left me wondering….
If you like humour, quests, friendships, magic and mystery, this is a series for you.
I would like to thank Net Galley for my opportunity to review this title.
But one boy named Flip knows there is still plenty of mystical things happening around them. After all, his three best friends are Girl (a ghost that can’t be seen except when she’s wearing the gloves and cape he gave her,) Corpse (another ghost who has made herself a body out of stolen wax, shells, teeth and seaweed) and Simon (a giant spider who can understand them but talks in clicks).
Flip Little lives in the town lighthouse with his grandmother. This lighthouse was once extremely important to Elston Fright, as the light it emitted was particularly special. It didn’t just serve the ships of the region, it repelled bad magic. But this light has long gone, way back in Flip’s grandfather’s day of being the town lightkeeper. He was from a long line of lightkeepers in their family.
One day Flip notices something strange in the air around the lighthouse. It isn’t a thing or a someone, it’s a wrongness that is hard to explain. After past adventures with his ghost and spider friends and terrible magic, he knows he must report this phenomenon to them immediately. Rowing out to their home on a rock not far from shore, the full horror of this wrongness reveals itself – and kidnaps Simon.
Flip, Corpse, Girl and with a little help from Girl’s octopus friend, Mr McKraken; they begin looking for clues to help unravel the strange air currents and get their furry friend back.
Along the way with Girl and Mr McKraken at hand, Flip discovers terrible truths about his family’s legacy of light, and Corpse learns more about her lost parents. The weird wind gusts are Poltergusts, greedy for magic. They will do anything and hurt anyone in their desire to collect it. Using Flip’s grandad’s diary, meeting new creatures small but mighty, and relying on each others’ love and loyalty, they fight back to reclaim their friend.
It seems even more adults in their lives have kept secrets and told lies about the history of their town. Will Corpse, Flip and Girl ever get to the bottom of it all?
The second in this ghostly but fun trilogy, the story is told in the two viewpoints of Flip Little and Corpse. Learning more about the history of Elston Fright was intriguing and seeing the trio work together in a quest to save their furry spider friend, endearing.
A few shocks along the way kept me reading and guessing at the true history of the lighthouse and it’s lightkeepers, and the epilogue left me wondering….
If you like humour, quests, friendships, magic and mystery, this is a series for you.
I would like to thank Net Galley for my opportunity to review this title.
May 10, 2025
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright (Unabridged) is a chapter book for kids, written by Reece Carter. I read the audiobook version, which was narrated by Gabriella Russo. The story is set in Elston-Fright and focuses on a group of friends. Flip lives in a lighthouse and he’s friends with Corpse, Girl and Simon the Spider. Troubles start in the book, so the friends try their best to figure out who is causing the troubles and how to stop them.
(I listened to the audiobook version, so I apologise if I have misspelt any names or words from the book.) I initially read through the book description and thought it sounded interesting. However, at that point in time, I didn’t realise that it was the second book in a series, due to there being no mention of it on the library page where I borrowed the book from. So, I have not read the first book in the series. While there were vague mentions of what had happened in the first book, I don’t think there was a good enough explanation about it, in my opinion. I think, in order to understand aspects of this book, I would probably need to read the first.
For me, I like the premise of the book. However, my main issue with it is that it feels really rushed. The characters go from dramatic scene to dramatic scene. And, in doing so, there isn’t enough suspense or build-up of important information. Like with the early portions of the book, there’s stuff about witches being sent out of town by the ghosts, or something like that. But I feel like I didn’t gain enough knowledge about it, due to how quickly the author rushes over it. Throughout the rest of the book, the characters are in regular dramatic scenes. I felt like it could have been paced out better; to develop more suspense to the book. In the same way, I think there’s needed to be more information about all the characters, who they are, etc. Because a lot of the descriptions of who these characters are feels like it relies on foreknowledge of the first book. I think the characters seem okay, admittedly. And I admire their dedication to try and help the area.
With the narrator vocals, I sometimes found it difficult to realise which character was speaking. Especially between chapters, if I got distracted and missed the first few moments of a chapter, it meant that it might not be clear which character perspective was being focused on at each point. Otherwise, I think the narrator did a pretty okay job.
Overall… I think it was quite okay. I might go back to the first and give that a read. I didn’t love it, but I think it was alright. I definitely don’t think I would read it again.
(I listened to the audiobook version, so I apologise if I have misspelt any names or words from the book.) I initially read through the book description and thought it sounded interesting. However, at that point in time, I didn’t realise that it was the second book in a series, due to there being no mention of it on the library page where I borrowed the book from. So, I have not read the first book in the series. While there were vague mentions of what had happened in the first book, I don’t think there was a good enough explanation about it, in my opinion. I think, in order to understand aspects of this book, I would probably need to read the first.
For me, I like the premise of the book. However, my main issue with it is that it feels really rushed. The characters go from dramatic scene to dramatic scene. And, in doing so, there isn’t enough suspense or build-up of important information. Like with the early portions of the book, there’s stuff about witches being sent out of town by the ghosts, or something like that. But I feel like I didn’t gain enough knowledge about it, due to how quickly the author rushes over it. Throughout the rest of the book, the characters are in regular dramatic scenes. I felt like it could have been paced out better; to develop more suspense to the book. In the same way, I think there’s needed to be more information about all the characters, who they are, etc. Because a lot of the descriptions of who these characters are feels like it relies on foreknowledge of the first book. I think the characters seem okay, admittedly. And I admire their dedication to try and help the area.
With the narrator vocals, I sometimes found it difficult to realise which character was speaking. Especially between chapters, if I got distracted and missed the first few moments of a chapter, it meant that it might not be clear which character perspective was being focused on at each point. Otherwise, I think the narrator did a pretty okay job.
Overall… I think it was quite okay. I might go back to the first and give that a read. I didn’t love it, but I think it was alright. I definitely don’t think I would read it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2023
Do you believe in magic??? In the town of Elston-Fright, most of the residents would respond with an absolute NO! But they may soon change their minds. The poltergusts are coming!!! Flip Little has an idea to keep the evil winds away, though. All it takes is getting the family's lighthouse relit, and to do that, he and his friends must adventure to find the magical light. He may be a human "fleshie", but along with his two ghost friends (Girl & Corpse) and a giant spider (Simon), Flip believes that they can restore the light and get rid of the poltergusts for good. He may get a little more than he bargained for, however, as he begins to uncover family secrets that could change everything!
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is book two of the Elston-Fright series. I personally have not read book one, yet I did not feel as if I was missing any information by not doing so. I would say that this book could be read as a standalone if so desired.
I did listen to this book on audio. The narrator was fantastic, and I loved that she sounds young. I think that will help middle-grade readers stay engaged and also make the story easier to relate to. I would also like to say that the narrator has the most amazing Aussie accent. I have listened to literally hundreds of audiobooks, and can probably count on one hand how many of the narrators had prominent Australian accents. It made for a very nice change of audio scenery.
Overall, I enjoyed this book! It is a fantasy novel with a little bit of a creep factor, which seems to be a HUGE trend in my area right now for young readers. I can think of several of the kiddos I work with at the library who would really like this book/series!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bolinda Audio, and the author for providing me with the audiobook version of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is book two of the Elston-Fright series. I personally have not read book one, yet I did not feel as if I was missing any information by not doing so. I would say that this book could be read as a standalone if so desired.
I did listen to this book on audio. The narrator was fantastic, and I loved that she sounds young. I think that will help middle-grade readers stay engaged and also make the story easier to relate to. I would also like to say that the narrator has the most amazing Aussie accent. I have listened to literally hundreds of audiobooks, and can probably count on one hand how many of the narrators had prominent Australian accents. It made for a very nice change of audio scenery.
Overall, I enjoyed this book! It is a fantasy novel with a little bit of a creep factor, which seems to be a HUGE trend in my area right now for young readers. I can think of several of the kiddos I work with at the library who would really like this book/series!
Thank you so much to NetGalley, Bolinda Audio, and the author for providing me with the audiobook version of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 9, 2024
"Adventures are supposed to be Great Big Fun". That's the opinion of Flip, the young lad who is due to inherit the legacy of his family, in protecting his home village from all things nasty, nightmarish and badly magical, from the lighthouse just outside it. This adventure will prove that supposition wrong, however, as it will start with his best ghost friends and their humongous spider made homeless, and then one of the small party will be snatched away – before his whole life finds a – well, a flip he never saw coming.
This struck me as markedly different from the vaguest of memories I had of the first pleasurable read in this series. I didn't remember the chapters being split between two different characters – I didn't remember the characters, I just see the notes I made about the strong, if guessable, story and the solid conviction of the fantasy. This has all of that, then, and a pretty distinctive feel throughout.
Here, a host of different people have a motive to interact with the baddies of the piece, whether for good or for bad, from greed or desperation. The pace at which they try their best to fulfil their missions really makes for a page-turning drama, and the seaside setting is strongly used. What I still think wins over the reader the most though is the anything-can-happen aspect of this fantasy, where whatever does happen just makes perfect sense, unlike with so many weird-for-weird-sake stories in similar books elsewhere. There is a touch of "white man = bad" about the whole piece, but there is a strong sense of firm assuredness – there is more to come, but this never feels like a bit of writing with the sole purpose of getting the series from A to C. It's a very strong B on the way, and a strong four stars once again.
This struck me as markedly different from the vaguest of memories I had of the first pleasurable read in this series. I didn't remember the chapters being split between two different characters – I didn't remember the characters, I just see the notes I made about the strong, if guessable, story and the solid conviction of the fantasy. This has all of that, then, and a pretty distinctive feel throughout.
Here, a host of different people have a motive to interact with the baddies of the piece, whether for good or for bad, from greed or desperation. The pace at which they try their best to fulfil their missions really makes for a page-turning drama, and the seaside setting is strongly used. What I still think wins over the reader the most though is the anything-can-happen aspect of this fantasy, where whatever does happen just makes perfect sense, unlike with so many weird-for-weird-sake stories in similar books elsewhere. There is a touch of "white man = bad" about the whole piece, but there is a strong sense of firm assuredness – there is more to come, but this never feels like a bit of writing with the sole purpose of getting the series from A to C. It's a very strong B on the way, and a strong four stars once again.
November 21, 2023
The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright is the second book in this ghostly Middle Grade trilogy, following A Girl Called Corpse
Nobody in the small coastal town of Elston-Fright believes in magic anymore. Well, nobody except for Flip Little, his nan and his friends: Girl (a ghost that can’t be seen except when she’s wearing the gloves and cape he gave her,) Corpse (another ghost who has made herself a body out of stolen wax, shells, teeth and seaweed) and Simon (a giant spider who can understand them but talks in clicks).
Flip lives in the lighthouse with his grandmother. The lighthouse used to be extremely important to Elston Fright, as the light it emitted saved ships but also repelled bad magic. But the light went out back in Flip’s grandfather’s day and Flip is a lightkeeper without a light. Flip notices a strange weather event, which turns out to be a group of evil and powerful weather ghouls called the Poltergusts. When Simon is taken by the Poltergusts, Flip and his ghostly companions turn to the last Lightkeeper’s journals for answers. To rescue their friend, they will need to find and return the missing Light to the lighthouse, restoring its lost magic. But things are not straightforward. There are questions about the origins of the light, about dark secrets from the past that will change the way everyone understands their world and their memories.
The setting is inspired by the area around Dunsborough in WA, where the author grew up. The lighthouse is based on the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and The Rock That Doesn't Exist - the mystical home of the series' ghostly characters - was inspired by Sugarloaf Rock
Nobody in the small coastal town of Elston-Fright believes in magic anymore. Well, nobody except for Flip Little, his nan and his friends: Girl (a ghost that can’t be seen except when she’s wearing the gloves and cape he gave her,) Corpse (another ghost who has made herself a body out of stolen wax, shells, teeth and seaweed) and Simon (a giant spider who can understand them but talks in clicks).
Flip lives in the lighthouse with his grandmother. The lighthouse used to be extremely important to Elston Fright, as the light it emitted saved ships but also repelled bad magic. But the light went out back in Flip’s grandfather’s day and Flip is a lightkeeper without a light. Flip notices a strange weather event, which turns out to be a group of evil and powerful weather ghouls called the Poltergusts. When Simon is taken by the Poltergusts, Flip and his ghostly companions turn to the last Lightkeeper’s journals for answers. To rescue their friend, they will need to find and return the missing Light to the lighthouse, restoring its lost magic. But things are not straightforward. There are questions about the origins of the light, about dark secrets from the past that will change the way everyone understands their world and their memories.
The setting is inspired by the area around Dunsborough in WA, where the author grew up. The lighthouse is based on the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, and The Rock That Doesn't Exist - the mystical home of the series' ghostly characters - was inspired by Sugarloaf Rock
December 30, 2023
Book review:
👻 This book will provide plenty of opportunities for readers to be engaged in entertaining, suspenseful and mysterious storylines. It is definitely a book that would be read for pleasure. Readers are taken to a world of ghosts, magic, sprites and strange happenings which offers an adventurous read you just can’t put down.
👻 Flip Little is extremely proud of his family history - the official lightkeepers of Elston-Fright; the lighthouse keepers. When the light is missing, it is up to Flip to restore the protection the lighthouse has always offered to the people of the town.
👻 But, the light is not the only thing that goes missing! There are mysteries and secrets to uncover, and magic and magical beings to combat. But will help come from the most unexpected place?
Can Flip and his friends Corpse and Girl save their friend and restore the lost magic before it’s too late?
👻 In this second novel by Reece Carter, there are dark secrets that poor Flip uncovers, there are ghouls waiting to wreak havoc on Elston-Fright AND Flip, Corpse and Girl meet some very little, bright and important creatures that have crossed paths with Flip’s family before.
👻 This is a spooky, magical, fast-paced adventure with heart-warming friendships that stand the test of everything thrown against them.
👻 Highly recommend to readers 8+
👻 If you haven’t read “A Girl Called Corpse” you will still be able to understand and enjoy this novel. However, the first is a great read too.
#bookreview #teacherlibrarian #teacherlibrariansofinstagram #reececarter #thelonelylighthouseofelstonfright @herbnerdreece @simonhoweart @allenandunwin
👻 This book will provide plenty of opportunities for readers to be engaged in entertaining, suspenseful and mysterious storylines. It is definitely a book that would be read for pleasure. Readers are taken to a world of ghosts, magic, sprites and strange happenings which offers an adventurous read you just can’t put down.
👻 Flip Little is extremely proud of his family history - the official lightkeepers of Elston-Fright; the lighthouse keepers. When the light is missing, it is up to Flip to restore the protection the lighthouse has always offered to the people of the town.
👻 But, the light is not the only thing that goes missing! There are mysteries and secrets to uncover, and magic and magical beings to combat. But will help come from the most unexpected place?
Can Flip and his friends Corpse and Girl save their friend and restore the lost magic before it’s too late?
👻 In this second novel by Reece Carter, there are dark secrets that poor Flip uncovers, there are ghouls waiting to wreak havoc on Elston-Fright AND Flip, Corpse and Girl meet some very little, bright and important creatures that have crossed paths with Flip’s family before.
👻 This is a spooky, magical, fast-paced adventure with heart-warming friendships that stand the test of everything thrown against them.
👻 Highly recommend to readers 8+
👻 If you haven’t read “A Girl Called Corpse” you will still be able to understand and enjoy this novel. However, the first is a great read too.
#bookreview #teacherlibrarian #teacherlibrariansofinstagram #reececarter #thelonelylighthouseofelstonfright @herbnerdreece @simonhoweart @allenandunwin
March 10, 2024
👻 Magic, witches, ghosts (both visible and invisible), dangerous winds and flying light-bearing seahorse things. What more could you want?!
🌊 ‘The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright’ delivers a well-written and page-turning story. If you enjoyed reading ‘A Girl Called Corpse’ then you are going to love this one! We are back in the spooky town of Elston-Fright where a group of unlikely friends must work together to investigate the latest magical disturbance.
👻 The characters are truly tested when one of their own (kind of, he’s a spider) get taken away by the dangerous wind called ‘The Trapper’. A beautiful story of friendship and understanding. I really enjoyed how the characters reflect empathy and care toward each other and the relationship they share is strong. However, family relationships are put to the test when secrets are kept and people are not who they appear to be!
🌊 I thoroughly enjoyed reading this latest Elston-Fright adventure and I am eager to read what will happen next!
👻 Recommended for anyone aged 8 and older. RRP $17.99 AUD
🧠 Teaching Point:
SYNTHESISING — The characters are very well-developed in this novel which provides teachers with the opportunity to reflect with their readers about the new information we learn about characters. This could be based on their actions or simply through the new information we are given throughout the book.
🌊 ‘The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright’ delivers a well-written and page-turning story. If you enjoyed reading ‘A Girl Called Corpse’ then you are going to love this one! We are back in the spooky town of Elston-Fright where a group of unlikely friends must work together to investigate the latest magical disturbance.
👻 The characters are truly tested when one of their own (kind of, he’s a spider) get taken away by the dangerous wind called ‘The Trapper’. A beautiful story of friendship and understanding. I really enjoyed how the characters reflect empathy and care toward each other and the relationship they share is strong. However, family relationships are put to the test when secrets are kept and people are not who they appear to be!
🌊 I thoroughly enjoyed reading this latest Elston-Fright adventure and I am eager to read what will happen next!
👻 Recommended for anyone aged 8 and older. RRP $17.99 AUD
🧠 Teaching Point:
SYNTHESISING — The characters are very well-developed in this novel which provides teachers with the opportunity to reflect with their readers about the new information we learn about characters. This could be based on their actions or simply through the new information we are given throughout the book.
September 18, 2024
I received an ARC version of this as part of the review panel for the Booksellers Circle, so thanks to everyone involved there.
This is such a fantastic follow-up to Reece’s previous novel “A Girl Called Corpse”. Set in a little seaside town where spooky goings on occur under the noses of the locals. Well most of them anyway. Our two heroes Flip, a 12 year old human “lightkeeper” who’s job it is to investigate the strange goings on in the town, and Corpse, the ghost of a girl possessing a body of wax with seaweed hair, pebble teeth, and seashell eyes. Together with their friend Girl (another ghost) they set out to rescue their giant spider Simon from the clutches of some evil ghouls.
There are so many twists in this tale that every chapter leaves you guessing as to what’s going to come next. Thankfully you don’t need to have read the first book as everything you need to know is perfectly explained as and when you need it, but you may find yourself wanting to read it when you're done.
This is a perfect book for the spooky season, and readers young and old (like me) will enjoy this exciting adventure.
This is such a fantastic follow-up to Reece’s previous novel “A Girl Called Corpse”. Set in a little seaside town where spooky goings on occur under the noses of the locals. Well most of them anyway. Our two heroes Flip, a 12 year old human “lightkeeper” who’s job it is to investigate the strange goings on in the town, and Corpse, the ghost of a girl possessing a body of wax with seaweed hair, pebble teeth, and seashell eyes. Together with their friend Girl (another ghost) they set out to rescue their giant spider Simon from the clutches of some evil ghouls.
There are so many twists in this tale that every chapter leaves you guessing as to what’s going to come next. Thankfully you don’t need to have read the first book as everything you need to know is perfectly explained as and when you need it, but you may find yourself wanting to read it when you're done.
This is a perfect book for the spooky season, and readers young and old (like me) will enjoy this exciting adventure.
November 1, 2023
Firstly, thank you to both #netgalley and #bolindaaudio for providing an arc of the Audiobook.
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We return to Elston-Fright to a new adventure with Corpse, Girl, and Simon. In this second book, we also see more of Flip whom we met in book one. We learn more about the history of the Lightkeepers and Flips Family while the group of friends battles a new supernatural threat to their home.
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This series is one I would highly recommend the audio for. Gabriella Russo was the narrator for both the first and second book, she brings the characters to life and makes their individual personalities shine.
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This is a well-written, ghostly, and action-packed adventure. Filled with magic, Creatures, secrets and ghosts.
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We return to Elston-Fright to a new adventure with Corpse, Girl, and Simon. In this second book, we also see more of Flip whom we met in book one. We learn more about the history of the Lightkeepers and Flips Family while the group of friends battles a new supernatural threat to their home.
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This series is one I would highly recommend the audio for. Gabriella Russo was the narrator for both the first and second book, she brings the characters to life and makes their individual personalities shine.
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This is a well-written, ghostly, and action-packed adventure. Filled with magic, Creatures, secrets and ghosts.
October 22, 2024
The Lonely Lighthouse is a fun sequel to A Girl Called Corpse, and is a wholesome read full of kindness and the joys of friendship.
This time, Corpse goes on another adventure with Girl, Flip, and her best friend, Simon the Spider. It was great to read another tale of Corpse and Co, and the friendship between the characters really shines through.
I read this with two of our Daughters, aged 8 and 11, over a few bedtimes, and we all really enjoyed it, especially as Halloween is coming up and we're all getting in the spooky spirit.
I'd say, if you haven't read A Girl Called Corpse, this reads quite well as a standalone. But I'd certainly recommend reading the former to get the most out of this read.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from us.
This time, Corpse goes on another adventure with Girl, Flip, and her best friend, Simon the Spider. It was great to read another tale of Corpse and Co, and the friendship between the characters really shines through.
I read this with two of our Daughters, aged 8 and 11, over a few bedtimes, and we all really enjoyed it, especially as Halloween is coming up and we're all getting in the spooky spirit.
I'd say, if you haven't read A Girl Called Corpse, this reads quite well as a standalone. But I'd certainly recommend reading the former to get the most out of this read.
5 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 's from us.
November 18, 2023
I'm baffled at myself for giving the previous book A Girl Called Corpse only 3 stars. I really thought I enjoyed it more and I did. I'll have to go back and fix it up. Meanwhile, The Lonely Lighthouse is a fantastic read! Told in alternating chapters between Corpse and Flip which is really well done (no double up on events). I love Simon, the giant huntsman spider, we also have new characters in the seafoam sprites, some shocking revelations and a lot of heart. And it leaves it open for another book! I can't wait!
September 27, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the audiobook ARC.
This is a hopeful and adventurous read!
I will admit I did not realize this was the second in a series and did not read the first one but it’s totally not necessary to enjoy the book.
Flip Little comes from a family of Light Keepers and the light has gone out. His spider friend Simon is stolen and so Flip and his ghost friend Corpse need to go find him.
This book is full of fun surprises, family secrets and adventure. It evoked memories of my own in finding out how things you see aren’t as they seem within your family.
Great read for adults and kids!
This is a hopeful and adventurous read!
I will admit I did not realize this was the second in a series and did not read the first one but it’s totally not necessary to enjoy the book.
Flip Little comes from a family of Light Keepers and the light has gone out. His spider friend Simon is stolen and so Flip and his ghost friend Corpse need to go find him.
This book is full of fun surprises, family secrets and adventure. It evoked memories of my own in finding out how things you see aren’t as they seem within your family.
Great read for adults and kids!
November 11, 2023
After saving herself from the witches you'd think Corpse could relax, but there's even worse coming to Elston-Fright! Corpse has another adventure but this time she has Girl and Flip to help, as well as her best buddy Simon the spider. Good thing too as the Poltergusts are a terrifying enemy for the gang to fight against. I liked the friendship between all four of them and it was great to find out more about Corpse's life.
I didn't remember much about the first book but luckily this one works quite well as a standalone too.
I didn't remember much about the first book but luckily this one works quite well as a standalone too.
November 20, 2023
This was a cute book I wish I had known it was book 2 in a series because I wish I knew more background on all these interesting characters. I do plan to go back and find book one and look forward to book 3.
I enjoyed this story it was quite the adventure.
Narrated by, Gabriella Russo her accent took me a little bit to get used to but by the end I really enjoyed the narration.
I would recommend this series!
3 1/2 stars
I received this book from the publisher Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
I enjoyed this story it was quite the adventure.
Narrated by, Gabriella Russo her accent took me a little bit to get used to but by the end I really enjoyed the narration.
I would recommend this series!
3 1/2 stars
I received this book from the publisher Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for a fair and honest review.
January 2, 2024
The Lonely Lighthouse is the second in the Easton-Fright trilogy by Reece Carter and I think I liked it even more than A Girl Called Corpse (which I loved). It’s told in dual pov, switching from Corpse to Flip throughout. It has themes of found family, trusting those around you, and trusting in yourself.
It was great to see Corpse discover who she really was in this book, I can’t wait to see how she develops in the next book.
I particularly loved the inclusion of Australian animals mentioned throughout, such a nice nod to the author’s home.
Highly recommend this series to everyone ages 8+
It was great to see Corpse discover who she really was in this book, I can’t wait to see how she develops in the next book.
I particularly loved the inclusion of Australian animals mentioned throughout, such a nice nod to the author’s home.
Highly recommend this series to everyone ages 8+
March 31, 2025
My kids and I rate this book 5/5 Seafoam Sprites
I have loved reading both this book and it’s predecessor with my children. It’s a book filled with suspense, comedy, drama and a little bit of horror (child approved).
Carter has built a lovely ensemble of characters who, while trying to find their place in the world and the origin of their living identities, help save the town of elston-fright from a cavalcade of villains.
We can’t wait for the newest title in the series which is released TOMORROW!
For all the teachers out there this would be a great class read too!
I have loved reading both this book and it’s predecessor with my children. It’s a book filled with suspense, comedy, drama and a little bit of horror (child approved).
Carter has built a lovely ensemble of characters who, while trying to find their place in the world and the origin of their living identities, help save the town of elston-fright from a cavalcade of villains.
We can’t wait for the newest title in the series which is released TOMORROW!
For all the teachers out there this would be a great class read too!
September 12, 2024
When you mix a boy, two ghosts and a giant spider with Seafoam Sprites and poltergusts (ghouls), the result is an amazing adventure that teaches trust, telling the truth and doing the right thing result in happy endings.
As an adult, I really enjoyed The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright, and think that all children will as well.
Thank you to Netgalley, the Publishers and author for letting me read this book in return for my honest review.
As an adult, I really enjoyed The Lonely Lighthouse of Elston-Fright, and think that all children will as well.
Thank you to Netgalley, the Publishers and author for letting me read this book in return for my honest review.
November 29, 2024
This middle grade supernatural adventure had great rising tension throughout. I hadn't read the previous book in the series, and was puzzled why two main character ghosts would be so different from each other - one classic invisible, and the other made of wax and seaweed (maybe it's explained earlier?). Aside from that, however, I found this a fun story with a couple of twists and turns to keep young readers reading.
October 24, 2023
This is a super fun and cute series...I started with the 1st book and I am so glad that I did. I can't wait to read Book 3 and see what happens. I hope the Corpse is reunited with her parents!! This was my 1st time reading books by Reece Carter but it will not be my last!
#TheLonelyLighthouseofElstonFright
#NetGalley
#TheLonelyLighthouseofElstonFright
#NetGalley
November 10, 2023
A fun ghostly story of uncovering secrets. The book is written to engage the readers and keep them invested in the plot. I have always loved the epilogue of any book and this one's did really make me want to know what's happening next.
Recommend it !
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
Recommend it !
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC
July 27, 2023
Such a wonderful follow up to 'A Girl Called Corpse'! Can't wait to properly recommend this when it's published in October, it's a spooky tale but full of heart. Loved learning more about Flip!!
October 13, 2024
Such a cute read. Highly recommend for kids who love something a little more spooky but not too scary. Great, fast-paced story, fantastic characters.
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