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Marvelo Mystery #1
Murder at Hotel Marvelo
Welcome to Hotel Marvelo - a luxury retreat for magic-makers!
Hotel Marvelo is famous for allowing all magical beings a place to relax, rest and recover in safety. Until, that is, the wizard Henry Gravelaxe, is discovered dead in the spa. But who is the murderer?
As soon as his parents are blamed, Finnian Marvelo knows that he must do everything he can to clear their names. Together with his siblings Juniper and Teddy, Finnian sets out to hunt for clues to reveal the truth.
But it soon becomes clear that not even Finnian knew everything there is to know about the hotel - and more than one of their guests is hiding something. The pressure is on to solve the murder before time runs out!
Hotel Marvelo is famous for allowing all magical beings a place to relax, rest and recover in safety. Until, that is, the wizard Henry Gravelaxe, is discovered dead in the spa. But who is the murderer?
As soon as his parents are blamed, Finnian Marvelo knows that he must do everything he can to clear their names. Together with his siblings Juniper and Teddy, Finnian sets out to hunt for clues to reveal the truth.
But it soon becomes clear that not even Finnian knew everything there is to know about the hotel - and more than one of their guests is hiding something. The pressure is on to solve the murder before time runs out!
- GenresMysteryMiddle Grade
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
March 27, 2026
Murder at Marvelo Hotel follows siblings Finnian, Juniper and Teddy as they work together to solve a mysterious murder at their family hotel after their parents are accused of the crime.
This was fun, fast-paced middle-grade mystery that kept me hooked from start to finish. I loved the magical hotel and unique characters, and the illustrations throughout the book helped to bring everything to life.
The real stars were the kids, i loved how different their personalities were and how they all contributed to solving the mystery in their own unique way. Special shout out to little Teddy! ☺️
I found the writing a little jumpy in places with some minor plot holes, and was able to guess the culprit early on. But that didn’t ruin it for me and I still enjoyed following along as the characters pieced everything together.
This was a really charming, cosy fantasy and I am already looking forward to picking up book 2!
Thank you to Bonnier Books UK, Piccadilly Press, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy
Hotel Marvelo is meant to be a safe haven for magical beings to rest and recharge, but everything changes when a wizard is found murdered. The hotel owners, Ida and Caspian Marvelo, are suddenly accused of the crime, and with their parents taken away, it’s up to their children—Finnian, Juniper, and Teddy—to solve the mystery and clear their family’s name before their parents are banished from their world forever.
I love a good murder mystery, and it’s refreshing to see one written for kids. This story strikes a great balance: not too complicated for younger readers, but the stakes remain high and the plot engaging. Add in the magical setting, and you’ve got a mystery that feels both whimsical and exciting.
Following the children as they piece together clues was such a fun ride. Along the way, they encounter magical beings like griffins, water sprites and witches, while also dealing with tricky guests and adults who’d rather see them fail. Each sibling brings something unique to the table—Finnian, the prim and proper eldest who learns to step into his role; Juniper, bold and brash, always ready to take risks; and Teddy, the brilliant, quiet thinker. They’re all so likable that I found myself rooting for them from the get-go.
For parents wondering if a murder mystery might be too scary for kids, rest assured that this one is very age-appropriate. There’s no blood or gore, and the suspense is handled in a way that’s thrilling but not frightening. It’s recommended for ages 9–12, and I’d say it’s perfect for kids and grown-ups who enjoy mysteries. Thank you, Definitely Books Kids (Pansing), for sending me the uncorrected proof for review!
I love a good murder mystery, and it’s refreshing to see one written for kids. This story strikes a great balance: not too complicated for younger readers, but the stakes remain high and the plot engaging. Add in the magical setting, and you’ve got a mystery that feels both whimsical and exciting.
Following the children as they piece together clues was such a fun ride. Along the way, they encounter magical beings like griffins, water sprites and witches, while also dealing with tricky guests and adults who’d rather see them fail. Each sibling brings something unique to the table—Finnian, the prim and proper eldest who learns to step into his role; Juniper, bold and brash, always ready to take risks; and Teddy, the brilliant, quiet thinker. They’re all so likable that I found myself rooting for them from the get-go.
For parents wondering if a murder mystery might be too scary for kids, rest assured that this one is very age-appropriate. There’s no blood or gore, and the suspense is handled in a way that’s thrilling but not frightening. It’s recommended for ages 9–12, and I’d say it’s perfect for kids and grown-ups who enjoy mysteries. Thank you, Definitely Books Kids (Pansing), for sending me the uncorrected proof for review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Murder at Hotel Marvelo is one of those middle-grade mysteries that hooks you from the first scream in the spa and refuses to let go. Set in a glittering luxury retreat for magical beings, the story blends intrigue, fantasy, humour, and heart in a way that feels fresh, cosy, and just the right amount of spooky.
Thank you to Bonnier Books UK, Piccadilly Press, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows siblings Finnian, Juniper and Teddy Marvelo, three very different personalities who balance each other perfectly. When a wizard guest, Henry Gravelaxe, is found dead and their parents are wrongly accused of “magicide,” the kids decide they’re not just going to sit around and watch their family fall apart. Instead, they launch their own investigation, snooping through corridors, questioning curious guests, and uncovering secrets hidden within the enchanted walls of Hotel Marvelo.
One of the story’s strongest elements is the setting. The hotel itself feels like a character full of strange residents, magical rules (like the ward that prevents spells), and whimsical details that make the world feel alive. The fact that the siblings can’t rely on magic to solve the crime flips the genre on its head, meaning they have to use their brains, their bravery, and, honestly, some pretty solid teamwork.
Teddy is a standout character and easily the emotional heart of the book. Without ever making a big announcement about labels, the story beautifully reflects neurodiversity through her communication style and routines. It’s a sensitive, respectful, and genuinely meaningful representation that the kind kids and adults will appreciate.
The mystery itself is layered but accessible, full of suspicious characters (hello, mysterious alchemist 👀), hidden motives, and twists that keep readers guessing. And the illustrations by Federica Frenna add an extra sprinkle of magic, making the book even more inviting, especially for reluctant or developing readers.
Overall, Murder at Hotel Marvelo is charming, clever, and delightfully atmospheric, the kind of story that feels like a warm blanket and a thrilling puzzle at the same time. It’s a brilliant start to a new series, and honestly, it sets the stage for so many future adventures at this extraordinary hotel.
This is a gripping, wholesome, and delightfully magical start to a new series.😊
Thank you to Bonnier Books UK, Piccadilly Press, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book follows siblings Finnian, Juniper and Teddy Marvelo, three very different personalities who balance each other perfectly. When a wizard guest, Henry Gravelaxe, is found dead and their parents are wrongly accused of “magicide,” the kids decide they’re not just going to sit around and watch their family fall apart. Instead, they launch their own investigation, snooping through corridors, questioning curious guests, and uncovering secrets hidden within the enchanted walls of Hotel Marvelo.
One of the story’s strongest elements is the setting. The hotel itself feels like a character full of strange residents, magical rules (like the ward that prevents spells), and whimsical details that make the world feel alive. The fact that the siblings can’t rely on magic to solve the crime flips the genre on its head, meaning they have to use their brains, their bravery, and, honestly, some pretty solid teamwork.
Teddy is a standout character and easily the emotional heart of the book. Without ever making a big announcement about labels, the story beautifully reflects neurodiversity through her communication style and routines. It’s a sensitive, respectful, and genuinely meaningful representation that the kind kids and adults will appreciate.
The mystery itself is layered but accessible, full of suspicious characters (hello, mysterious alchemist 👀), hidden motives, and twists that keep readers guessing. And the illustrations by Federica Frenna add an extra sprinkle of magic, making the book even more inviting, especially for reluctant or developing readers.
Overall, Murder at Hotel Marvelo is charming, clever, and delightfully atmospheric, the kind of story that feels like a warm blanket and a thrilling puzzle at the same time. It’s a brilliant start to a new series, and honestly, it sets the stage for so many future adventures at this extraordinary hotel.
This is a gripping, wholesome, and delightfully magical start to a new series.😊
April 1, 2026
Murder at Hotel Marvelo is a marvellously magical murder mystery that completely captured me from the intriguing opening to the I-need-the-next-book-now ending.
Twelve-year-old Finnian Marvelo opens the doors of his parents’ hotel to a griffin – yes, a griffin – who wants to book a room. She’s just one of the magical beings who come to the Hotel Marvelo to take a break from the magical arts, safe in the knowledge that it is protected by magical wards that prevent the use of magic whilst at the Hotel. That is – until a guest, the wizard Henry Gravelaxe, is found in the spa – murdered by magical means. And, when Detective Bianco arrives to investigate, she rather quickly deduces that the only possible culprits are the Marvelo siblings parents – but how could they possibly benefit from the death of a guest? Taken into custody and in danger of banishment, can the siblings prove their parents’ innocence and discover the identity, and motive, of the real culprit?
And so begins an exciting mystery adventure as siblings Finnian, Juniper and Teddy investigate how a magicide could have occurred in a place where the use of magic should be impossible. I absolutely loved following these three young sleuths as they follow a trail of clues to identify and eliminate suspects, a trail that leads them into tricky situations and danger, but which also allows them to find some new friends. As time runs out, the tension increases and the stakes become higher, making this an unputdownable story that I was completely invested in as the mystery deepened … and truths were slowly revealed.
As if investigating their very first murder wasn’t enough to contend with, the children also have to adjust to life with the guardian sent by Social Services to care for them after their parents have been taken away. And, Mrs Weatherley is definitely not in favour of children who would rather be sleuthing than studying.
The Hotel Marvelo is the most wonderful establishment that welcomes a diverse group of magical beings from griffins (Emily is absolutely brilliant!) and water sprites to alchemists and sorcerers. The children make use of its hidden passageways, and its incredible library, to help them with their investigation, but could it also have other hidden secrets?
I absolutely adored this clever, courageous and determined sleuthing trio. Their different strengths and qualities allow them to work successfully as a team and support each other during the investigation. Not only are there a diverse group of magical beings staying at the hotel, but there is also implied diversity within the Marvelo family, something that I think is so important to allow all children to see themselves represented in what they read, but also to allow children to develop empathy through the stories they read.
The captioned full-page illustrations, map and floor plans are absolutely stunning and complement the sense of mystery and magic within the story perfectly.
A marvellously magical whodunnit, with family and friendship at its heart, perfect for children of 9+.
Twelve-year-old Finnian Marvelo opens the doors of his parents’ hotel to a griffin – yes, a griffin – who wants to book a room. She’s just one of the magical beings who come to the Hotel Marvelo to take a break from the magical arts, safe in the knowledge that it is protected by magical wards that prevent the use of magic whilst at the Hotel. That is – until a guest, the wizard Henry Gravelaxe, is found in the spa – murdered by magical means. And, when Detective Bianco arrives to investigate, she rather quickly deduces that the only possible culprits are the Marvelo siblings parents – but how could they possibly benefit from the death of a guest? Taken into custody and in danger of banishment, can the siblings prove their parents’ innocence and discover the identity, and motive, of the real culprit?
And so begins an exciting mystery adventure as siblings Finnian, Juniper and Teddy investigate how a magicide could have occurred in a place where the use of magic should be impossible. I absolutely loved following these three young sleuths as they follow a trail of clues to identify and eliminate suspects, a trail that leads them into tricky situations and danger, but which also allows them to find some new friends. As time runs out, the tension increases and the stakes become higher, making this an unputdownable story that I was completely invested in as the mystery deepened … and truths were slowly revealed.
As if investigating their very first murder wasn’t enough to contend with, the children also have to adjust to life with the guardian sent by Social Services to care for them after their parents have been taken away. And, Mrs Weatherley is definitely not in favour of children who would rather be sleuthing than studying.
The Hotel Marvelo is the most wonderful establishment that welcomes a diverse group of magical beings from griffins (Emily is absolutely brilliant!) and water sprites to alchemists and sorcerers. The children make use of its hidden passageways, and its incredible library, to help them with their investigation, but could it also have other hidden secrets?
I absolutely adored this clever, courageous and determined sleuthing trio. Their different strengths and qualities allow them to work successfully as a team and support each other during the investigation. Not only are there a diverse group of magical beings staying at the hotel, but there is also implied diversity within the Marvelo family, something that I think is so important to allow all children to see themselves represented in what they read, but also to allow children to develop empathy through the stories they read.
The captioned full-page illustrations, map and floor plans are absolutely stunning and complement the sense of mystery and magic within the story perfectly.
A marvellously magical whodunnit, with family and friendship at its heart, perfect for children of 9+.
Review of advance copy
Feb 2026: Murder at Hotel Marvelo
Hotel Marvelo is not an ordinary hotel. It was inherited by the Marvelos, a getaway for magical creatures i.e. sorceror, alchemist, griffin, water sprite, witches, wizards, and more, where they could rest and relax with no magic and spells allowed in the hotel.
When a murder occurred, Ida Marvelo and her husband, Caspian were taken in as suspects. Their children, Finnian, Juniper and Teddy are determined to save their innocent parents, and they need to solve the murder mystery. While their parents were locked up, Mrs Weatherly who appeared from nowhere, took the job to look after them. She was suspicious from day one.
Mystery and magic in one book! The idea of a hotel for magical mythical creatures, each room came with a theme and special features really made this book appealing. The siblings are each with different special expertise; Finnian, the eldest likes to read, Juniper the best sidekick, and Teddy, the littlest the most adorable and yet mysterious with her origami skills.
Readers will get furious knowing Detective Bianco simply blamed their parents with no evidence whatsoever. The siblings had to look for clues, question every guest and connect them. The situation made them think hard, be brave and focus on saving their parents from banishment.
wish i could finish this book in one go. Griffin, faun and water sprites are new to me, i had to search how they look like. Love the illustrations too, really helping me to be familiar with the characters and layout of the hotel.
Thank you #Pansing for this review copy. This book will be available in March 2026, check it out!
Hotel Marvelo is not an ordinary hotel. It was inherited by the Marvelos, a getaway for magical creatures i.e. sorceror, alchemist, griffin, water sprite, witches, wizards, and more, where they could rest and relax with no magic and spells allowed in the hotel.
When a murder occurred, Ida Marvelo and her husband, Caspian were taken in as suspects. Their children, Finnian, Juniper and Teddy are determined to save their innocent parents, and they need to solve the murder mystery. While their parents were locked up, Mrs Weatherly who appeared from nowhere, took the job to look after them. She was suspicious from day one.
Mystery and magic in one book! The idea of a hotel for magical mythical creatures, each room came with a theme and special features really made this book appealing. The siblings are each with different special expertise; Finnian, the eldest likes to read, Juniper the best sidekick, and Teddy, the littlest the most adorable and yet mysterious with her origami skills.
Readers will get furious knowing Detective Bianco simply blamed their parents with no evidence whatsoever. The siblings had to look for clues, question every guest and connect them. The situation made them think hard, be brave and focus on saving their parents from banishment.
wish i could finish this book in one go. Griffin, faun and water sprites are new to me, i had to search how they look like. Love the illustrations too, really helping me to be familiar with the characters and layout of the hotel.
Thank you #Pansing for this review copy. This book will be available in March 2026, check it out!
April 6, 2026
When somebody gets murdered at the Hotel Marvelo, and the owners get fingered for the crime, it's up to the owners' children, Finnian and Juniper, to solve it properly. If they can learn how… I suppose this is one step up from having a crime case in a magical school – it's actually a magic-free hotel, where wizards, griffins, sprites and a heck of a lot more retreat to detox from the spell-based world. But as we learn, that still leaves a lot of weirdness – for a start there's the third child, a non-verbal origami expert, before we even get to the diverse guests.
This is the second book of this author's I've found to have similar qualities (the first being https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). A singular institution to explore? Check. Copious hidey-holes and hidden compartments and passages? Very much so. Over-written? Definitely. It's fairly obvious from far too early on who is the murderer, even if the world is seemingly telling us it's impossible, and that would not be the only aspect of this improved if it had been briefer, more lively and more engaging. These books aren't bad – they have a pretty reasonable balance of old-fashioned and trendy, and a rich narrative drive – but to me the way they survive the editor's pen leaves them being really quite so-so and forgettable.
This is the second book of this author's I've found to have similar qualities (the first being https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...). A singular institution to explore? Check. Copious hidey-holes and hidden compartments and passages? Very much so. Over-written? Definitely. It's fairly obvious from far too early on who is the murderer, even if the world is seemingly telling us it's impossible, and that would not be the only aspect of this improved if it had been briefer, more lively and more engaging. These books aren't bad – they have a pretty reasonable balance of old-fashioned and trendy, and a rich narrative drive – but to me the way they survive the editor's pen leaves them being really quite so-so and forgettable.
April 7, 2026
Murder at Hotel Marvelo by Ruth Lauren is a brilliant first in a new series, ideal for fans of Robin Stevens and Lemony Snicket, as well as perfect for 9+ readers.
Hotel Marvelo! A luxury stay for the most magical of beings and creatures, with rooms to suit any guest and a luxurious spa, surely nothing can go wrong…
One particular morning when young Finnian is hoping the day can just be spent curled with a book, he and his siblings lives are turned upside down when a guest is found dead in the hotel.
But who could the murderer be? Is the guest that just checked in? Or might it be Finnian, Juniper and Teddy’s parents?
One thing is for sure, the Marvelo siblings are not going to let their home be taken from them and a murderer to roam free! Armed with their library, knowledge of secret passages and their wits, they are sure to help solve this case and save the hotel!
This whimsical mystery is grounded in a deep magical setting, with Finnian’s devotion to the written word even rivalling a certain Hermione Granger, there is a little something for any reader.
Extremely excited for this series to continue! And cannot wait to discover how the Marvelo siblings solve the mystery in Murder at Sorcery Spires.
Also would like to add that the illustrations by Federica Frenna, add to the magic of the story and compliments Ruth Laurens’ writing.
Hotel Marvelo! A luxury stay for the most magical of beings and creatures, with rooms to suit any guest and a luxurious spa, surely nothing can go wrong…
One particular morning when young Finnian is hoping the day can just be spent curled with a book, he and his siblings lives are turned upside down when a guest is found dead in the hotel.
But who could the murderer be? Is the guest that just checked in? Or might it be Finnian, Juniper and Teddy’s parents?
One thing is for sure, the Marvelo siblings are not going to let their home be taken from them and a murderer to roam free! Armed with their library, knowledge of secret passages and their wits, they are sure to help solve this case and save the hotel!
This whimsical mystery is grounded in a deep magical setting, with Finnian’s devotion to the written word even rivalling a certain Hermione Granger, there is a little something for any reader.
Extremely excited for this series to continue! And cannot wait to discover how the Marvelo siblings solve the mystery in Murder at Sorcery Spires.
Also would like to add that the illustrations by Federica Frenna, add to the magic of the story and compliments Ruth Laurens’ writing.
April 4, 2026
The Hotel Marvelo is the place that Finian Marvelo and his blended family of parents and siblings call home, and it is also the place where magical beings like unicorns, griffins, and water sprites go for a respite from the pressures of magical life. Because magic is prohibited within the walls of the hotel.
But when a wizard is mysteriously found dead on the premises (in the hotel spa, no less!) and the senior Marvelos or accused of murder and threatened with banishment, Finian and his two sisters must step up to clear their names in a race against time. In the process, they make some unusual friends....
This is a delightful story and one that is consistently entertaining throughout. It should be a huge hit with readers in the target group.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
But when a wizard is mysteriously found dead on the premises (in the hotel spa, no less!) and the senior Marvelos or accused of murder and threatened with banishment, Finian and his two sisters must step up to clear their names in a race against time. In the process, they make some unusual friends....
This is a delightful story and one that is consistently entertaining throughout. It should be a huge hit with readers in the target group.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
February 20, 2026
I loved the sibling dynamics most of all. Finnian and Juniper have that sweet older brother and big personality younger sister energy that feels so genuine. Juniper’s word mix-ups and fierce determination make her incredibly endearing. Teddy’s mostly nonverbal presence adds a quieter layer to the trio and feels thoughtfully done.
The mystery itself surprised me. I truly could not guess the culprit, and the plot was far more intricate than I expected. It balances charm and suspense beautifully, making it a cozy yet clever read that keeps you hooked until the very end.
The mystery itself surprised me. I truly could not guess the culprit, and the plot was far more intricate than I expected. It balances charm and suspense beautifully, making it a cozy yet clever read that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was great! A lot of fun to read and a nice mystery. It did take me a bit to get into the story. I also did solve the mystery much quicker than the characters, but I still enjoyed reading about their investigation and them figuring it out, so I didn't mind that. I think this was overall a really fun book and a great introduction to a new series. I'm definitely interested in checking out any future installments
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July 23, 2026Totally entertaining #MG cosy crime with a magical twist for children aged 8/9+
You can read my full review here: https://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home...
You can read my full review here: https://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home...
February 8, 2026
A slightly bumpy start to this story, and some inexplicable child neglect by the authorities.
The world building is fun and unusual, with some interesting character lore, and kids in a hotel is always fun.
The plot dragged a little at the start, the story definitely picked up as the book progressed.
It was a great example of found family bonding together to save their parents and their home.
I have recommended it to my daughter who loves a mystery story.
Book received free via NetGalley.
The world building is fun and unusual, with some interesting character lore, and kids in a hotel is always fun.
The plot dragged a little at the start, the story definitely picked up as the book progressed.
It was a great example of found family bonding together to save their parents and their home.
I have recommended it to my daughter who loves a mystery story.
Book received free via NetGalley.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews