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Murder at Hotel Marvelo: A magical mystery adventure for young readers
Not yet published
Expected 12 Mar 26A FANTASTICAL AND FUN MURDER MYSTERY FOR CHILDREN, PERFECT FOR FANS OF ROBIN STEVENS AND THE SWIFTS.
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!
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!
Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 12, 2026
1 person is currently reading
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
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.😊
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!
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.
February 17, 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 - 5 of 5 reviews