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The House of Hidden Wonders
Zinnie and her sisters live in the murky tunnels beneath Edinburgh's Old Town. They keep out of the way of the authorities and remain undetected. Until, that is, rumours of a ghost bring unwanted visitors into the caverns they call home. Among them, a young Arthur Conan Doyle, keen to investigate, and MacDuff, the shady owner of Edinburgh's newest attraction, the House of Wonders. Caught up in a world of intrigue and adventure, Zinnie seeks answers. But how can she discover what secrets lie in the House of Wonders while also protecting the sisters she holds so dear? A thrilling historical adventure featuring mystery in the tunnels beneath Victorian Edinburgh, for fans of Robin Stevens, Katherine Woodfine and Jennifer Bell. Praise for THE GOLDEN
“Touching on issues of class and gender, its main purpose is to bewitch and enthral” – Financial Times
“A perfectly paced and wonderfully written tale of mystery and magic” – Sinéad O'Hart, author of THE EYE OF THE NORTH and THE STAR-SPUN WEB
“Touching on issues of class and gender, its main purpose is to bewitch and enthral” – Financial Times
“A perfectly paced and wonderfully written tale of mystery and magic” – Sinéad O'Hart, author of THE EYE OF THE NORTH and THE STAR-SPUN WEB
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 2, 2020
5 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Gosling
56 books115 followersSharon Gosling began her career in entertainment journalism, writing for magazines in the science fiction and fantasy genre, before moving on to write tie-in books for TV shows such as "Stargate" and the 'reimagined' "Battlestar Galactica."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 26, 2022
Zillie, Sadie and Neil are “sisters” and look out for each other.
I love how they are all individual characters who we later find out are very different in all aspects.
The good thing was the diversity and disabilities however, I would have preferred to hear about their lives in they’re own voice rather than the main character telling us (Zillie) the impact could have been stronger for the reader.
Lessons to learn in this book even if you are an adult.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it really drew me in.
Just what is The House of Hidden Wonders?
Brilliant
I love how they are all individual characters who we later find out are very different in all aspects.
The good thing was the diversity and disabilities however, I would have preferred to hear about their lives in they’re own voice rather than the main character telling us (Zillie) the impact could have been stronger for the reader.
Lessons to learn in this book even if you are an adult.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it really drew me in.
Just what is The House of Hidden Wonders?
Brilliant
March 31, 2020
Zinnie is fiercely protective of Sadie and Nell, her sisters. Their home in Old Edinburgh is dark, dirty and underground but Zinnie is proud of it. At least she’s been able to keep her family together. She doesn’t believe the talk in the Close about the ghost.
Along the way, Zinnie meets an explorer and doctor who are both intelligent, independent and female. I really liked the inclusion of women who were very much ahead of their time.
I’m not usually much of a fan of the inclusion of historical figures in fiction so I was initially hesitant when I encountered Arthur Conan Doyle. The author’s historical note at the end of the book helped me correlate some elements of his character with his life. I found the information about Doctor Sophia Jex-Blake particularly interesting, as I hadn’t heard of her before.
With a “terrible, cruel man” with cronies, a tortoise named Algernon, curiosities from around the world and mysteries to solve, including , this book went in a different direction than I was expecting. The prologue had me anticipating supernatural spookiness; however, the focus was more on solving mysteries and the importance of family and being there for the ones we love.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Stripes Publishing, an imprint of Little Tiger Group, for the opportunity to read this book.
“Can’t stay down there no more. Not with that spirit abroad. Vicious, she is. Evil.”Arthur Conan Doyle, who is currently a medical student at the Royal Infirmary, pays Zinnie to do jobs for him. He is currently investigating a mystery that not even the local authorities have been able to solve.
“More subterfuge? How perfectly wonderful!”I loved Zinnie. She’s headstrong, resilient and intelligent. Her loyalty to her sisters and ingenuity in finding ways to provide for them impressed me. She’s the kind of person you want on your side. I didn’t feel like I got to know Zinnie’s sisters, Sadie and Nell, that well. Although I know facts about each of them, this was really Zinnie’s story.
Along the way, Zinnie meets an explorer and doctor who are both intelligent, independent and female. I really liked the inclusion of women who were very much ahead of their time.
I’m not usually much of a fan of the inclusion of historical figures in fiction so I was initially hesitant when I encountered Arthur Conan Doyle. The author’s historical note at the end of the book helped me correlate some elements of his character with his life. I found the information about Doctor Sophia Jex-Blake particularly interesting, as I hadn’t heard of her before.
With a “terrible, cruel man” with cronies, a tortoise named Algernon, curiosities from around the world and mysteries to solve, including , this book went in a different direction than I was expecting. The prologue had me anticipating supernatural spookiness; however, the focus was more on solving mysteries and the importance of family and being there for the ones we love.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Stripes Publishing, an imprint of Little Tiger Group, for the opportunity to read this book.
November 8, 2020
I picked this up the other night, & read the whole book in 1 sitting. I loved it so much. Zinnie is my hero! I want to be just like her when I grow up! Funny how at 38 this young girl in a book can make you want to be better-that’s what MG does though, & 1 reason I love it so much. She is feisty, strong, brave, loyal, determined, & devoted. The book is set in 1879 Old Edinburgh-& it’s not in good times. The author did a lot of research of this place in the Victorian period. There are also parts of the story based on history-1 thing I absolutely LOVE when it’s apart of a story. One is a location where Zinnie & her other 2 orphaned sisters live-Mary’s King’s Close. So fascinating, & I can’t even imagine. The author described everything perfectly...I could feel the despair..I could smell it..amazing writing. Other parts based on history were certain characters of the story. This made me want to go & research everything! I won’t spoil who they are so you can discover yourself-read the authors note in back when done! But I will say the story Arthur was brilliantly done, & I loved it. I also loved his character. I also adored the doctor, Lady Sarah(amazing lady!!), the other 2 sisters, Aelfine, & Ruby the monkey-loved that monkey lol there was also representation for a disorder that it appears they were just starting to learn about at the time. The way the author did it was amazing...seeing it all through the book, little things hinted at, & the judgments...it must have been awful for people to deal w/that who were going through that, & they themselves not understanding either, since so much wasn’t known. Then later in the book, a name for the disorder is given, & it hits you out of nowhere, & all those things through the book tie together, & you have this understanding. It makes me want to go back in time & protect everyone that went through what this character did. This story had so many winning factors..I’ve just named a few, there’s so much more. This was also full of action, a terrible villain, danger, suspense, mystery, family, &even some detective like elements. I really hope this author writes more MG,b/c I need more! Lol beautiful cover as well of course.😍😍 HIGHLY recommend!!💜💜
February 5, 2020
This is an excellent book. I had so much fun reading Zinnie’s adventures in 1870s Edinburgh. Sharon Gosling has created a totally believable world, and I just love the way she has woven in real people (and included some information on them at the back of the book). The adventure itself is exciting, I found it hard to put my kindle down to go to sleep. However, there is nothing too frightening for the age group it is primarily aimed at (Middle Grade). It is very well written, the characters are all three dimensional. I particularly liked Zinnie - although she has had a very difficult childhood, and had to learn to look after herself, she is still kind and compassionate towards others.
I’d recommend this book to children and adults alike, it’s great fun and a joy to read. I will certainly be looking out for more books from Sharon Gosling.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
I’d recommend this book to children and adults alike, it’s great fun and a joy to read. I will certainly be looking out for more books from Sharon Gosling.
I was given a free copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
July 2, 2020
It’s the year 1870. We’re in Edinburgh, Arthur Conan Doyle is a medical student, but he’s not our main character. Our MC is Zinnie, a fierce young girl, trying to keep a roof over the heads of her sisters Sadie and Nell, and some sort of food on their table. This is how Doyle and Zinnie cross paths, Doyle pays Zinnie for small jobs – like recovering a pocket watch – which soon turns into solving mysteries.
Zinnie is a wonderful character, she’s loyal to her family and friends, she’s headstrong and intelligent. You know that she’ll prevail against all odds and that you can count on her to protect her siblings.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes their stories a little on the dark side, though not that dark, it’s a middle-grade after all. The historical figures included in the story don’t distract from Zinnie’s story or the mystery, they add to it.
Zinnie is a wonderful character, she’s loyal to her family and friends, she’s headstrong and intelligent. You know that she’ll prevail against all odds and that you can count on her to protect her siblings.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes their stories a little on the dark side, though not that dark, it’s a middle-grade after all. The historical figures included in the story don’t distract from Zinnie’s story or the mystery, they add to it.
March 13, 2020
A beautiful, emotional, clever and utterly fascinating story that cleverly weaves together fiction and history.
Honestly, this is one of my top picks for my book of the year. With no anticipation, as I read it the day it was announced, it absolutely blew me away!
It's a stand-alone story, though it has a lot of similar themes and the same period setting as The Golden Butterfly, also by Sharon Gosling (and also a spectacularly good novel!) While The Golden Butterfly is set in the theatres of Victorian London, The House of Hidden Wonders takes place in and below Edinburgh. The city is brought vibrantly to life, with a wealth of detail and atmosphere, particularly the parts set in the ruins of old Edinburgh, which are mostly buried under the city built on top of them. You can go there, and wander around it in a weird, creepy ghost town. The thought of young children living down there is a chilling one.
And this is a chilling novel. Unlike the rather well-to-do heroine of the Golden Butterfly, the girls in this novel are homeless, scraping a living any way they can on the streets. They've fallen through the cracks in society, and it's harrowing to see how hard their lives are, and the extent to which their at the mercy of street thugs, starvation and disease.
But it's also a novel filled with love and hope. The bond between the sisters is really something very special, and when Zinnie asserts that they are sisters, despite their different appearances and parents and everything, it is just a truly beautiful moment. The way they support each other and that palpable love between them is gorgeous.
I loved the mix of historical and fictional characters, and I thought this worked really well. The young Arthur Conan Doyle is a very amusing figure, and there's fun to be had in little hints about his future writing career. I'd never heard of Sophia Jex-Blake until I read this book, and her real life story is a fascinating one, and something I think more people should be aware of. As with The Golden Butterfly, the way feminist themes are woven through the novel is very clever and very powerful. But one of my favourite characters has to be the (fictional) Lady Sarah Montague, the wealthy widow turned world explorer. Her dinner party scene was just absolutely fantastic, hilarious and inspirational. Victorian-era mansplaining put down with consummate style.
The plot is absolutely cracking. There are so many mysterious elements, a truly nasty villain, a cute animal sidekick, dastardly plots and complicated plans to stop them.. I couldn't put the book down until I'd finished. There's also some really sensitively done disability-representation, that I thought was beautifully handled.
A truly stunning novel, emotional, exciting and empowering.
Honestly, this is one of my top picks for my book of the year. With no anticipation, as I read it the day it was announced, it absolutely blew me away!
It's a stand-alone story, though it has a lot of similar themes and the same period setting as The Golden Butterfly, also by Sharon Gosling (and also a spectacularly good novel!) While The Golden Butterfly is set in the theatres of Victorian London, The House of Hidden Wonders takes place in and below Edinburgh. The city is brought vibrantly to life, with a wealth of detail and atmosphere, particularly the parts set in the ruins of old Edinburgh, which are mostly buried under the city built on top of them. You can go there, and wander around it in a weird, creepy ghost town. The thought of young children living down there is a chilling one.
And this is a chilling novel. Unlike the rather well-to-do heroine of the Golden Butterfly, the girls in this novel are homeless, scraping a living any way they can on the streets. They've fallen through the cracks in society, and it's harrowing to see how hard their lives are, and the extent to which their at the mercy of street thugs, starvation and disease.
But it's also a novel filled with love and hope. The bond between the sisters is really something very special, and when Zinnie asserts that they are sisters, despite their different appearances and parents and everything, it is just a truly beautiful moment. The way they support each other and that palpable love between them is gorgeous.
I loved the mix of historical and fictional characters, and I thought this worked really well. The young Arthur Conan Doyle is a very amusing figure, and there's fun to be had in little hints about his future writing career. I'd never heard of Sophia Jex-Blake until I read this book, and her real life story is a fascinating one, and something I think more people should be aware of. As with The Golden Butterfly, the way feminist themes are woven through the novel is very clever and very powerful. But one of my favourite characters has to be the (fictional) Lady Sarah Montague, the wealthy widow turned world explorer. Her dinner party scene was just absolutely fantastic, hilarious and inspirational. Victorian-era mansplaining put down with consummate style.
The plot is absolutely cracking. There are so many mysterious elements, a truly nasty villain, a cute animal sidekick, dastardly plots and complicated plans to stop them.. I couldn't put the book down until I'd finished. There's also some really sensitively done disability-representation, that I thought was beautifully handled.
A truly stunning novel, emotional, exciting and empowering.
April 2, 2020
This could have been a 4, but I'm sticking with 3.
This story follows the lives of young children in 1870s Edinburgh. Sisters bonded by hardship. We meet Sadie, an Irish orphan with a knack for medicinal herbs (she'd make a great midwife, but I suppose a doctor will suffice!) her younger 'sister' Nell, a very young black orphan with no where to go and a horrible sickness threatening her life and our main girl Zinnie. She is the big sister and only wants to provide a better life for her family.
Zinnie is known to the not-so-famous writer Arthur Conan Doyle as his 'finder out of things': she helps him track down stolen or lost items and she ensures she does a good job to buy food for her sisters.
As Conan Doyle is studying medicine at Edinburgh Infirmary, he asks Zinnie for her opinion on a bizarre case - bodies with their ears missing! As Zinnie aids the future author with the findings, she interacts with an array of characters and discovers some truly gruesome things. Zinnie risks it all and does what she has to, in order to protect her family, old and new.
This is very good middle grade crime book but perhaps for the upper range of the age group, due to the nature of ears being severed and some threatening language which may make some younger children uncomfortable (I know Talbot will be haunting my dreams).
My only criticism and the reason I give 3 stars and not 4 is that the storyline is slow. There is so much description and exposition that it drags the story out, removing some of the tension and slowing down the flow of the plot. It wasn't like the usual middle grade books I've read where you're left wanting more so you keep reading and keep reading until you've finished. This book, I found easy to put down and come back to. I didn't feel like I was being told to keep reading, to find out what happens next. That's my only complaint.
The characters were well written and it has a happy ending. What more could I want?
Had this been written for adults, I would hope to see Fowler gunned down or some horribly graphic end.
This story follows the lives of young children in 1870s Edinburgh. Sisters bonded by hardship. We meet Sadie, an Irish orphan with a knack for medicinal herbs (she'd make a great midwife, but I suppose a doctor will suffice!) her younger 'sister' Nell, a very young black orphan with no where to go and a horrible sickness threatening her life and our main girl Zinnie. She is the big sister and only wants to provide a better life for her family.
Zinnie is known to the not-so-famous writer Arthur Conan Doyle as his 'finder out of things': she helps him track down stolen or lost items and she ensures she does a good job to buy food for her sisters.
As Conan Doyle is studying medicine at Edinburgh Infirmary, he asks Zinnie for her opinion on a bizarre case - bodies with their ears missing! As Zinnie aids the future author with the findings, she interacts with an array of characters and discovers some truly gruesome things. Zinnie risks it all and does what she has to, in order to protect her family, old and new.
This is very good middle grade crime book but perhaps for the upper range of the age group, due to the nature of ears being severed and some threatening language which may make some younger children uncomfortable (I know Talbot will be haunting my dreams).
My only criticism and the reason I give 3 stars and not 4 is that the storyline is slow. There is so much description and exposition that it drags the story out, removing some of the tension and slowing down the flow of the plot. It wasn't like the usual middle grade books I've read where you're left wanting more so you keep reading and keep reading until you've finished. This book, I found easy to put down and come back to. I didn't feel like I was being told to keep reading, to find out what happens next. That's my only complaint.
The characters were well written and it has a happy ending. What more could I want?
Had this been written for adults, I would hope to see Fowler gunned down or some horribly graphic end.
November 19, 2020
First of all, thank you to Little Tiger Group for giving me an opportunity to review an ARC of this fantastic book!
It's such a wonderful story filled with beautiful characters. Although it's filled with adventure, wit and mischief, it also tackles a lot of important topics like poverty, feminism and disability. I think younger readers as well as older readers will get a lot out of this book.
The relationships in this book were truly a joy to read. The women are so strong and independent and kind. They take the girls under their wings and treat them like equals and I just love them so much for it!
Zinnie is a great protagonist. She survived a rough childhood and will do anything to give her sisters the best life possible. She is a fighter. Now I want to read all about her adventures in South America! Oh, and I want an Algernon please. 😉
I felt like every character was well developed and three-dimensional which isn't easy to do, especially in a book this short.
I think the writing is very mature for a middle grade which I really enjoyed. I think it is definitely suitable for all age groups. The pacing was great, I never felt bored or like I needed a break and the plot was so interesting that I devoured this book in one sitting. I hope I'll be able to get my hands on a finished copy once it is out and I can't wait to read more by Sharon Gosling! ♡
(This review is reposted from my old account which will be deleted soon.)
It's such a wonderful story filled with beautiful characters. Although it's filled with adventure, wit and mischief, it also tackles a lot of important topics like poverty, feminism and disability. I think younger readers as well as older readers will get a lot out of this book.
The relationships in this book were truly a joy to read. The women are so strong and independent and kind. They take the girls under their wings and treat them like equals and I just love them so much for it!
Zinnie is a great protagonist. She survived a rough childhood and will do anything to give her sisters the best life possible. She is a fighter. Now I want to read all about her adventures in South America! Oh, and I want an Algernon please. 😉
I felt like every character was well developed and three-dimensional which isn't easy to do, especially in a book this short.
I think the writing is very mature for a middle grade which I really enjoyed. I think it is definitely suitable for all age groups. The pacing was great, I never felt bored or like I needed a break and the plot was so interesting that I devoured this book in one sitting. I hope I'll be able to get my hands on a finished copy once it is out and I can't wait to read more by Sharon Gosling! ♡
(This review is reposted from my old account which will be deleted soon.)
February 2, 2022
3.5/5⭐
Przyjemna i lekka książka dziecięca/młodzieżowa. Pojawiają się morderstwa oraz odcinanie uszu zwłokom. Także czy to taka lit. dziecięca to nie jestem pewna. Mimo wszystko dobrze się bawiłam i może przeczytałabym coś jeszcze od tej autorki.
Przyjemna i lekka książka dziecięca/młodzieżowa. Pojawiają się morderstwa oraz odcinanie uszu zwłokom. Także czy to taka lit. dziecięca to nie jestem pewna. Mimo wszystko dobrze się bawiłam i może przeczytałabym coś jeszcze od tej autorki.
March 16, 2020
To start, Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities in the Uk. I've only been there twice and both times I fell head over heels in love with it. I love the juxtaposition between the old and new architecture, the vibrancy, the history, the people, the accent and everything else associated with it; so I was already excited to read this knowing it was set deep in Victorian Auld Reekie.
Add in a strong female protagonist who strives for the best despite adversity and we're on to a winner. Zinnie, the eldest of 3 sisters has a strong mother role where, despite living hand to mouth in the slums, wants the best for her siblings and will do anything to make sure they are all ok. Sadie, the next sister down is quiet and demure with a love for botany and the medicinal properties of plants. Lastly, there is Nell. The youngest sister and one who takes ill through the poor living conditions. The relationship between the sisters is extremely powerful and shows the bond they all have. They will do anything for each other and anything to stay together. Zinnie knows they don't live well but knows it is her duty to look after them. She wants the best for them but understands she can only do what she can. However, that doesn't mean she rests on her laurels and accepts things for what they are. In fact, quite the opposite.
She has a friendship with a young Arthur Conan Doyle and between the 2 of them, they seem to feed off each other. He understands Zinnie knows the streets of Edinburgh like the back of her hand. Zinnie knows that he is a learned man who is inquisitive and won't stop at what is there before him. If he feels there is more to something than the obvious, he and Zinnie almost think aloud together in a search to unravel a mystery.
Also in the book is another very powerful, strong lady called Lady Sarah Montague. How I would love to be her! She is widowed and has travelled extensively around the world on her own and intends to keep going, much to the dismay of the gentlemen around her who think a lady should be doing no such thing! Lady Sarah puts these men swiftly back in their place. She is an endearing character and one who takes an instant liking to Zinnie, albeit she is a street child, knowing she is a friend of Conan Doyle.
Then we have Dr Sophia Jex-Blake. Again another female character and as it turns out, another factual person from the time. I'm not going to spoil it here and tell you her history as I think it will be interesting for you to find out, as I did, when you get to the end of the book. I must admit, the author really has done her research and I love this aspect of the book, mixing fact with fiction. Delicious!
Then there is the bad guy. A supposedly American freak show owner who isn't all that he seems. As you read the book, you take an instant dislike to him and that's all down to the power of the writing.
Finally there is one more girl who I'm not going to say anything about. All I will say is that I cried when I found out about her. I'll leave that little nugget with you.
This was an absolutely fantastic book and one that I will definitely be buying. Suitable for upper key stage 2 as there are some darker themes, we follow Zinnie as she takes us on a rip-roaring adventure to solve her own Sherlock Holmes style murder mystery. You are thrown straight into the story from page 1 and to be honest, as I was reading, I forgot it was even a middle grade book. I was so engrossed that I needed to read and read until every little twist was put into place.
This is a story of sibling love; a love for someone no matter what they look like, be that in race or disability. The bond between people through adversity to not only make the best of what they have but also stand by their morals and fight for justice and what is right. There is the history of the underground streets and a glimpse into life as it was then, yet just down the road, the rich lived with their staff.
I can already say with confidence, that this will be one of my best books of the year. I'd highly recommend this to anyone, adults and children alike who want an adventure that draws you straight in and you can get your teeth into.
Add in a strong female protagonist who strives for the best despite adversity and we're on to a winner. Zinnie, the eldest of 3 sisters has a strong mother role where, despite living hand to mouth in the slums, wants the best for her siblings and will do anything to make sure they are all ok. Sadie, the next sister down is quiet and demure with a love for botany and the medicinal properties of plants. Lastly, there is Nell. The youngest sister and one who takes ill through the poor living conditions. The relationship between the sisters is extremely powerful and shows the bond they all have. They will do anything for each other and anything to stay together. Zinnie knows they don't live well but knows it is her duty to look after them. She wants the best for them but understands she can only do what she can. However, that doesn't mean she rests on her laurels and accepts things for what they are. In fact, quite the opposite.
She has a friendship with a young Arthur Conan Doyle and between the 2 of them, they seem to feed off each other. He understands Zinnie knows the streets of Edinburgh like the back of her hand. Zinnie knows that he is a learned man who is inquisitive and won't stop at what is there before him. If he feels there is more to something than the obvious, he and Zinnie almost think aloud together in a search to unravel a mystery.
Also in the book is another very powerful, strong lady called Lady Sarah Montague. How I would love to be her! She is widowed and has travelled extensively around the world on her own and intends to keep going, much to the dismay of the gentlemen around her who think a lady should be doing no such thing! Lady Sarah puts these men swiftly back in their place. She is an endearing character and one who takes an instant liking to Zinnie, albeit she is a street child, knowing she is a friend of Conan Doyle.
Then we have Dr Sophia Jex-Blake. Again another female character and as it turns out, another factual person from the time. I'm not going to spoil it here and tell you her history as I think it will be interesting for you to find out, as I did, when you get to the end of the book. I must admit, the author really has done her research and I love this aspect of the book, mixing fact with fiction. Delicious!
Then there is the bad guy. A supposedly American freak show owner who isn't all that he seems. As you read the book, you take an instant dislike to him and that's all down to the power of the writing.
Finally there is one more girl who I'm not going to say anything about. All I will say is that I cried when I found out about her. I'll leave that little nugget with you.
This was an absolutely fantastic book and one that I will definitely be buying. Suitable for upper key stage 2 as there are some darker themes, we follow Zinnie as she takes us on a rip-roaring adventure to solve her own Sherlock Holmes style murder mystery. You are thrown straight into the story from page 1 and to be honest, as I was reading, I forgot it was even a middle grade book. I was so engrossed that I needed to read and read until every little twist was put into place.
This is a story of sibling love; a love for someone no matter what they look like, be that in race or disability. The bond between people through adversity to not only make the best of what they have but also stand by their morals and fight for justice and what is right. There is the history of the underground streets and a glimpse into life as it was then, yet just down the road, the rich lived with their staff.
I can already say with confidence, that this will be one of my best books of the year. I'd highly recommend this to anyone, adults and children alike who want an adventure that draws you straight in and you can get your teeth into.
April 18, 2020
This was an exciting read that takes you on a great adventure through the streets of Edinburgh! I found it really easy to become absorbed in and the writing style had such a quirky, fun element to it that made me so eager to carry on reading. Gosling has such a great way of getting you engaged with her stories and this was clearly evident in The House of Hidden Wonders.
The setting of the book is just wonderful and one that I haven’t read about much in Middle Grade. I visited Edinburgh a few years ago and loved it, so it was great to read about this wonderful city. Also, I visited Mary’s King Close when I was there and found it fascinating, so, was overjoyed to be able to read about it in The House of Hidden Wonders. The details of Edinburgh in 1800’s were so intricate and intriguing, and I feel that Gosling must have done tons of research to get this amount of accuracy within the book, and that is commendable.
The plot, despite starting off quite slow, keeps you on your toes and makes you want to know more. I do love a good mystery and the one that was present within The House of Hidden Wonders was such a thought provoking one, that did make me think..a lot! The use of suspense to capture the readers interest was also amazing in this book, and you literally can’t put it down. Gosling has an incredible way of keeping the reader on tenterhooks and this, in turn, makes them become utterly absorbed in the story.
The diversity within The House of Hidden Wonders is next to none, and something that has been solely needed in Middle Grade for a while now. We have own voices rep, disability rep and great female rep, and I was all for it! The one that stood out the most was the disability representation. We learn that one of the characters has Down’s Syndrome and what I like about it was that most of the characters within the story treated them exactly the same as others, and it warmed my heart. It’s exactly how people in real life should be treating those with disabilities and I am hoping that anyone who reads this book takes that away with them.
The House of Hidden Wonders was an enjoyable, action packed read full of secrets and surprise. If you end up reading this you will find yourself drawn in and captivated by it’s historical, diverse feel.
The setting of the book is just wonderful and one that I haven’t read about much in Middle Grade. I visited Edinburgh a few years ago and loved it, so it was great to read about this wonderful city. Also, I visited Mary’s King Close when I was there and found it fascinating, so, was overjoyed to be able to read about it in The House of Hidden Wonders. The details of Edinburgh in 1800’s were so intricate and intriguing, and I feel that Gosling must have done tons of research to get this amount of accuracy within the book, and that is commendable.
The plot, despite starting off quite slow, keeps you on your toes and makes you want to know more. I do love a good mystery and the one that was present within The House of Hidden Wonders was such a thought provoking one, that did make me think..a lot! The use of suspense to capture the readers interest was also amazing in this book, and you literally can’t put it down. Gosling has an incredible way of keeping the reader on tenterhooks and this, in turn, makes them become utterly absorbed in the story.
The diversity within The House of Hidden Wonders is next to none, and something that has been solely needed in Middle Grade for a while now. We have own voices rep, disability rep and great female rep, and I was all for it! The one that stood out the most was the disability representation. We learn that one of the characters has Down’s Syndrome and what I like about it was that most of the characters within the story treated them exactly the same as others, and it warmed my heart. It’s exactly how people in real life should be treating those with disabilities and I am hoping that anyone who reads this book takes that away with them.
The House of Hidden Wonders was an enjoyable, action packed read full of secrets and surprise. If you end up reading this you will find yourself drawn in and captivated by it’s historical, diverse feel.
April 1, 2021
You say middle grade mystery with Arthur Conan Doyle and a diverse cast including some women doing their thing at a time where we don't often hear about that? Or course I'm in and my expectations are high! Luckily, this novel didn't fall short of these lofty expectations.
This novel is about a group of girls or 'sisters': Zillie, Sadie and Neil. We spent a lot of time with Zillie, as the main protagonist, and with Sadie. I loved the idea that Conan Doyle had a band of underworld children similar to the gang featured in his Sherlock Holmes books and that there were women in said gang. I also enjoyed seeing women subvert socially-accepted gender roles and class expectations of the time, although this declined in believability as the book continued and veered towards the cliché. I enjoyed the mystery and got sucked into it after a slow start. It was wrapped up satisfactorily to be a standalone, although these characters would lend themselves to deeper exploration in further books.
These girls are very interesting and distinct characters, but I did have an issue with seeing everything through Zillie's narrative POV lens, particularly the issues around race surrounding Nell and what's later revealed to be the disability of another. I really appreciated seeing these issues discussed in middle grade, but thought it would have been more powerfully expressed byvthe characters who experienced them, rather than the reader being shown this through a white able-bodied gaze; something that you see time and again throughout literature. I loved that there were a variety of temperaments on show here, people with different experiences and backgrounds. It made the cast of characters really come to life as an ensemble and it would be great to see this as a film for younger audiences.
After a rocky start, I found the book to be extremely engaging and I'm glad I finally got around to reading it.
This novel is about a group of girls or 'sisters': Zillie, Sadie and Neil. We spent a lot of time with Zillie, as the main protagonist, and with Sadie. I loved the idea that Conan Doyle had a band of underworld children similar to the gang featured in his Sherlock Holmes books and that there were women in said gang. I also enjoyed seeing women subvert socially-accepted gender roles and class expectations of the time, although this declined in believability as the book continued and veered towards the cliché. I enjoyed the mystery and got sucked into it after a slow start. It was wrapped up satisfactorily to be a standalone, although these characters would lend themselves to deeper exploration in further books.
These girls are very interesting and distinct characters, but I did have an issue with seeing everything through Zillie's narrative POV lens, particularly the issues around race surrounding Nell and what's later revealed to be the disability of another. I really appreciated seeing these issues discussed in middle grade, but thought it would have been more powerfully expressed byvthe characters who experienced them, rather than the reader being shown this through a white able-bodied gaze; something that you see time and again throughout literature. I loved that there were a variety of temperaments on show here, people with different experiences and backgrounds. It made the cast of characters really come to life as an ensemble and it would be great to see this as a film for younger audiences.
After a rocky start, I found the book to be extremely engaging and I'm glad I finally got around to reading it.
March 30, 2020
So, all I had to hear was history, adventure, museum and curious girls, and I was hooked! Once I started reading, it took no time for me to lose myself in Zinnie’s Edinburgh, and join her on her quest to protect her sisters and discover the secret of the House of Wonders. The House of Hidden Wonders is a thrilling story of a group of young girls making their way in a world stacked against them, featuring themes of found family, diversity and acceptance. Through the story of ghosts and mystery, ultimately, Zinnie shows the world around her how crucial it is to see beyond the obvious and accept and support each other for who they are. We modern grown-ups would do well to listen to her!
In its historical Edinburgh setting, we encounter some familiar figures, such as a young Arthur Conan Doyle, a medical student who is embarking on his first writing exploits, or Sophia Jex-Blake, one of the first female doctors, who opened a practice in Edinburgh in the late nineteenth-century. Others, such as Lady Sarah or Macduff might not be historical figures, but fit into the story just as well, and round out the cast of adults. The girls, Zannie, Sadie, Nell and Aelfine are all utterly different and equally wonderful, each with their quirks and flaws, but lovable to the core. Nell is portrayed as dark-skinned, and Aelfine was likely born with what we would call Down Syndrome today – making Zannie fiercly protective of them, and educating the world in how they should be treating them. It is clear that much care went into researching The House of Hidden Wonders, and the effort pays off.
In short, this is everything I would have wanted in a children’s book back when I was a child, and I would happily buy The House of Hidden Wonders for any child in my life! (And really, kidlit is great for getting your mind off things during this awful situation, so why not try it for yourself?)
In its historical Edinburgh setting, we encounter some familiar figures, such as a young Arthur Conan Doyle, a medical student who is embarking on his first writing exploits, or Sophia Jex-Blake, one of the first female doctors, who opened a practice in Edinburgh in the late nineteenth-century. Others, such as Lady Sarah or Macduff might not be historical figures, but fit into the story just as well, and round out the cast of adults. The girls, Zannie, Sadie, Nell and Aelfine are all utterly different and equally wonderful, each with their quirks and flaws, but lovable to the core. Nell is portrayed as dark-skinned, and Aelfine was likely born with what we would call Down Syndrome today – making Zannie fiercly protective of them, and educating the world in how they should be treating them. It is clear that much care went into researching The House of Hidden Wonders, and the effort pays off.
In short, this is everything I would have wanted in a children’s book back when I was a child, and I would happily buy The House of Hidden Wonders for any child in my life! (And really, kidlit is great for getting your mind off things during this awful situation, so why not try it for yourself?)
April 2, 2020
The House of Hidden Wonders is a superbly gripping historical adventure set in a richly detailed and immersive Victorian Edinburgh which immediately captured me in the richly atmospheric and intriguing prologue, and kept me enthralled until the final page.
Zinnie and her little sisters, Nell and Sadie, scrape a meagre living on the streets of Edinburgh, and live in the tunnels beneath it. Zinnie has taken both of the younger girls, who are orphans, into her heart and is determined to protect them and keep them safe: the strength of their sisterly bond is beautifully portrayed throughout. These unbreakable bonds of sisterhood are a strong theme within the story, and the relationships between the sisters was incredibly touching, especially in Zinnie’s absolute commitment to saving her youngest sister when she becomes desperately ill.
One of the people who gives Zinnie paid jobs is none other than a young medical student, Arthur Conan Doyle. He treats her with respect and values her opinion, asking for her help in solving a gruesome mystery, but unwittingly puts her in terrible danger as she tries to keep herself one step ahead of the law, and finds herself coming to the attention of a vile villain who will stop at nothing to protect his own secrets …
Zinnie’s life changes forever when she attends a séance being organised by the independently wealthy widow Lady Sarah Montague. It is not long before she finds herself at the centre of a dark and utterly intriguing mystery: uncovering hidden secrets within the House of Wonders museum; revealing the true story of the ghost haunting the tunnels; and, uncovering the perpetrator of a crime from the past that has come to the streets of her home … The plot is intricate, action-packed, heart-stopping, and so very, very clever: I was utterly compelled to follow Zinnie who proves to be a rather brilliant sleuth in her own right.
I absolutely adored Zinnie, who is just the most wonderful young girl. She is incredibly protective of Nell and Sadie who have become her sisters. Highly intelligent, fiercely independent and full of courage, Zinnie forges her own path and has an incredible inner strength and tenacity, not afraid to stand up to unscrupulous adults, and fight for those she loves. She sees past other peoples’ prejudices, and is determined to fight for the rights of others, especially those of another young girl who has found herself being cruelly exploited. The portrayal of this young girl’s condition is beautifully written: she is a victim, but she is also a fighter and a survivor, but who doesn’t need someone else fighting your corner when the odds are not in your favour? This is a role that Zinnie fulfils with kindness, ingenuity and great deal of empathy.
I also loved the portrayal of the strong adult female characters in this story. Lady Sarah Montague is an independent widow who uses her wealth to fulfil her sense of adventure by undertaking intrepid expeditions, and is quite capable of standing up for herself, and woe betide any man who thinks she should be doing otherwise! Dr Sophia Jex-Blake is a real historical figure, being the first female doctor in Scotland: I found the Author’s Historical Note regarding her fascinating.
It was a privilege to read this utterly compelling historical adventure with its inspirational female characters, realistic setting, and gripping plot which kept me turning page after page as I just had to follow the mystery with all of its superb twists and turns. Sheer brilliance!
Zinnie and her little sisters, Nell and Sadie, scrape a meagre living on the streets of Edinburgh, and live in the tunnels beneath it. Zinnie has taken both of the younger girls, who are orphans, into her heart and is determined to protect them and keep them safe: the strength of their sisterly bond is beautifully portrayed throughout. These unbreakable bonds of sisterhood are a strong theme within the story, and the relationships between the sisters was incredibly touching, especially in Zinnie’s absolute commitment to saving her youngest sister when she becomes desperately ill.
One of the people who gives Zinnie paid jobs is none other than a young medical student, Arthur Conan Doyle. He treats her with respect and values her opinion, asking for her help in solving a gruesome mystery, but unwittingly puts her in terrible danger as she tries to keep herself one step ahead of the law, and finds herself coming to the attention of a vile villain who will stop at nothing to protect his own secrets …
Zinnie’s life changes forever when she attends a séance being organised by the independently wealthy widow Lady Sarah Montague. It is not long before she finds herself at the centre of a dark and utterly intriguing mystery: uncovering hidden secrets within the House of Wonders museum; revealing the true story of the ghost haunting the tunnels; and, uncovering the perpetrator of a crime from the past that has come to the streets of her home … The plot is intricate, action-packed, heart-stopping, and so very, very clever: I was utterly compelled to follow Zinnie who proves to be a rather brilliant sleuth in her own right.
I absolutely adored Zinnie, who is just the most wonderful young girl. She is incredibly protective of Nell and Sadie who have become her sisters. Highly intelligent, fiercely independent and full of courage, Zinnie forges her own path and has an incredible inner strength and tenacity, not afraid to stand up to unscrupulous adults, and fight for those she loves. She sees past other peoples’ prejudices, and is determined to fight for the rights of others, especially those of another young girl who has found herself being cruelly exploited. The portrayal of this young girl’s condition is beautifully written: she is a victim, but she is also a fighter and a survivor, but who doesn’t need someone else fighting your corner when the odds are not in your favour? This is a role that Zinnie fulfils with kindness, ingenuity and great deal of empathy.
I also loved the portrayal of the strong adult female characters in this story. Lady Sarah Montague is an independent widow who uses her wealth to fulfil her sense of adventure by undertaking intrepid expeditions, and is quite capable of standing up for herself, and woe betide any man who thinks she should be doing otherwise! Dr Sophia Jex-Blake is a real historical figure, being the first female doctor in Scotland: I found the Author’s Historical Note regarding her fascinating.
It was a privilege to read this utterly compelling historical adventure with its inspirational female characters, realistic setting, and gripping plot which kept me turning page after page as I just had to follow the mystery with all of its superb twists and turns. Sheer brilliance!
May 15, 2020
I was really excited to read this and was lucky enough to receive an advance reading copy – thank you Little Tiger!
I fell in love with Zinnie straightaway, with her street smarts and caring for her sisters as they live in the abandoned buildings that go down underground in Edinburgh. The sitting was richly evoked and I loved seeing Arthur Conan Doyle as a young doctor, already showing an interest in the supernatural. There are lots of little nods to his stories, including a few things that Zinnie says to him which later appear in his work.
Lady Sarah Montague became another firm favourite as she defies society’s expectations of a woman at the time by traveling all over the world and exploring. What a role model! Doctor Sophia Jex-Blake was another character in the book, but one who did actually exist – after finishing the story I went off down the rabbit hole reading about her and the struggles she faced to be taken seriously as a woman in what was very much considered a man’s profession (medicine). This was a fantastically atmospheric middle grade story with realistic characters and a gentle challenge to the societal norms of the time about women, disability and difference. My only slight warning, if you’re giving this to your child, is that the murders with the severed ears is a scary image and the baddie is truly menacing – beware if giving to a more sensitive or younger reader. I finished this book with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes, hoping that this will only be the first of Zinnie’s adventures!
I fell in love with Zinnie straightaway, with her street smarts and caring for her sisters as they live in the abandoned buildings that go down underground in Edinburgh. The sitting was richly evoked and I loved seeing Arthur Conan Doyle as a young doctor, already showing an interest in the supernatural. There are lots of little nods to his stories, including a few things that Zinnie says to him which later appear in his work.
Lady Sarah Montague became another firm favourite as she defies society’s expectations of a woman at the time by traveling all over the world and exploring. What a role model! Doctor Sophia Jex-Blake was another character in the book, but one who did actually exist – after finishing the story I went off down the rabbit hole reading about her and the struggles she faced to be taken seriously as a woman in what was very much considered a man’s profession (medicine). This was a fantastically atmospheric middle grade story with realistic characters and a gentle challenge to the societal norms of the time about women, disability and difference. My only slight warning, if you’re giving this to your child, is that the murders with the severed ears is a scary image and the baddie is truly menacing – beware if giving to a more sensitive or younger reader. I finished this book with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes, hoping that this will only be the first of Zinnie’s adventures!
October 1, 2020
I really enjoyed The house of hidden wonders. A strong storyline with fabulous characters. Sherlock holmes is an all time favourite of mine and I loved the idea of reading about his early life before we knew him as a famous detective in London with his sidekick watson.
Having visited Edinburgh recently and exploring Mary kings Close, I really felt the book brought the historical side to life.
The two main women characters were fantastic, strong minded, intelligent and independent, going against the norm of society and winning. I felt it was just as relevant in todays times as back in the 1800's.
Finally to Zinniecand her sisters. I loved thier deep love and bond for each other. No matter they had found each other from different backgrounds, all four sisters loved each other unquestionably. Thier loyalty to each other absolute.
I loved every minute of this story , the only downside was it was over to soon. I feel zinnie and her sisters have many more tales to tell and look forward to the author hopefully revisting Edinburgh and the delightful sisters to tell us about the further adventures that await them all.
Having visited Edinburgh recently and exploring Mary kings Close, I really felt the book brought the historical side to life.
The two main women characters were fantastic, strong minded, intelligent and independent, going against the norm of society and winning. I felt it was just as relevant in todays times as back in the 1800's.
Finally to Zinniecand her sisters. I loved thier deep love and bond for each other. No matter they had found each other from different backgrounds, all four sisters loved each other unquestionably. Thier loyalty to each other absolute.
I loved every minute of this story , the only downside was it was over to soon. I feel zinnie and her sisters have many more tales to tell and look forward to the author hopefully revisting Edinburgh and the delightful sisters to tell us about the further adventures that await them all.
April 8, 2020
I received this book in return for an honest review via Netgalley.
The House of Hidden Wonders follows Zinne through the streets of Edinburgh as she protects her sisters and works with the future author, Arthur Conan Doyle. That is a super basic introduction and doesn't do this book justice.
I thoroughly enjoyed Gosling's writing. It was fluent and well described, with good pacing and characterization of her many different types of characters. The story has two worlds - the poor and the rich - and both are well matched against each other. I liked the character interactions, the good and the bad, and how the reality of Edinburgh was woven into this story. Particularly, my favourite characters were Zinnie and Lady Sarah. In the course of the book, they show great resourcefulness and intelligence. Their interactions are really sweet and I love how Zinnie cares for her sisters - blood or otherwise!
This is a really fast-paced and engaging middle-grade story. It is definitely something I would recommend and I can't wait to read more of Sharon Goslings work!
The House of Hidden Wonders follows Zinne through the streets of Edinburgh as she protects her sisters and works with the future author, Arthur Conan Doyle. That is a super basic introduction and doesn't do this book justice.
I thoroughly enjoyed Gosling's writing. It was fluent and well described, with good pacing and characterization of her many different types of characters. The story has two worlds - the poor and the rich - and both are well matched against each other. I liked the character interactions, the good and the bad, and how the reality of Edinburgh was woven into this story. Particularly, my favourite characters were Zinnie and Lady Sarah. In the course of the book, they show great resourcefulness and intelligence. Their interactions are really sweet and I love how Zinnie cares for her sisters - blood or otherwise!
This is a really fast-paced and engaging middle-grade story. It is definitely something I would recommend and I can't wait to read more of Sharon Goslings work!
March 25, 2020
3.5 stars!
The House of Hidden Wonders is a fun and heartwarming children’s historical fiction with a lot of charm. I loved the setting, the characters and the atmosphere of the story. There was clearly a lot of historical research put into this novel - which I really appreciated - and I think Gosling did a great job an interweaving real historical figures with the fictional events of the story.
The only downside for me was that I did find the story quite hard to get into at first. There wasn’t a lot of ‘set-up’ in the first quarter of the story, and I sort of felt a little thrown in at the deep end, as if I was already expected to know the characters & their motivations. However, once I got over this hurdle, it was an enjoyable experience.
Overall, The House or Hidden Wonders is a fun and adventurous children’s novel that touches on some interesting & important themes in a charming and accessible way!
Arc provided through NetGalley! Opinions are my own.
The House of Hidden Wonders is a fun and heartwarming children’s historical fiction with a lot of charm. I loved the setting, the characters and the atmosphere of the story. There was clearly a lot of historical research put into this novel - which I really appreciated - and I think Gosling did a great job an interweaving real historical figures with the fictional events of the story.
The only downside for me was that I did find the story quite hard to get into at first. There wasn’t a lot of ‘set-up’ in the first quarter of the story, and I sort of felt a little thrown in at the deep end, as if I was already expected to know the characters & their motivations. However, once I got over this hurdle, it was an enjoyable experience.
Overall, The House or Hidden Wonders is a fun and adventurous children’s novel that touches on some interesting & important themes in a charming and accessible way!
Arc provided through NetGalley! Opinions are my own.
March 8, 2020
In the words of a young Conan Doyle, if you like books ‘full of adventure and strange goings on’ then The House of Hidden Wonder will be ‘right up your street.’
This detective mystery adventure story is chock full of strong, independent female characters and dastardly villains. I loved how aspects of the story were based on actual events, places and people from the past.
The view of Victorian Edinburgh enables the reader to see life from very different viewpoints at a time in our recent history - class, poverty and gender. The theme of family and diversity were beautifully told within the story. I ❤️❤️❤️ the ending which I’d had my fingers crossed for.
I’m hoping for more adventures from Zinnie and co! A definite must have read.
This detective mystery adventure story is chock full of strong, independent female characters and dastardly villains. I loved how aspects of the story were based on actual events, places and people from the past.
The view of Victorian Edinburgh enables the reader to see life from very different viewpoints at a time in our recent history - class, poverty and gender. The theme of family and diversity were beautifully told within the story. I ❤️❤️❤️ the ending which I’d had my fingers crossed for.
I’m hoping for more adventures from Zinnie and co! A definite must have read.
May 23, 2020
A very entertaining mystery read set in Victorian Edinburgh.
We follow Zinnie & her two sisters running through the streets. Finding a pocket watch for a friend of Arthur Conan Doyle was easy, stealing it back was harder.
Arthur asks Zinnie if she knows anything about ears, as a couple of bodies at the Hospital he is studying at have been found without them.
Little does Zinnie know, her answer will change the life of her sisters, herself and those she hasn't met yet.
Really great intrigue and pace.
I'm so glad I picked this up on a recommend from Liam @notsotweets on twitter for Believathon prompt during lockdown. Highly confirm one of children's highlights for middle grade reads this year.
We follow Zinnie & her two sisters running through the streets. Finding a pocket watch for a friend of Arthur Conan Doyle was easy, stealing it back was harder.
Arthur asks Zinnie if she knows anything about ears, as a couple of bodies at the Hospital he is studying at have been found without them.
Little does Zinnie know, her answer will change the life of her sisters, herself and those she hasn't met yet.
Really great intrigue and pace.
I'm so glad I picked this up on a recommend from Liam @notsotweets on twitter for Believathon prompt during lockdown. Highly confirm one of children's highlights for middle grade reads this year.
April 17, 2020
Once I’d got into the book I really enjoyed it. One of the abiding things I came away with from this book is the fact that you don’t need to be blood to be sisters, bonds of protection and love are just as strong. The story centres around Zinnie, her ‘sisters’, an incorrigible American, a ruthless thief and a ghost. It all happens in the depths of Edinburgh’s hidden city but also brings the lower classes together with the wealthier citizens of the city. The book centres on strong women with Lady Sarah and Dr Jex-Blake based on real life female pioneers.
If you like subterfuge, magic, crime solving as well as historical drama, this is the book for you.
If you like subterfuge, magic, crime solving as well as historical drama, this is the book for you.
April 2, 2020
My Rating of House of Hidden Wonders is 5 Stars! I don’t think I could’ve loved this book any more!
I loved this book from the beginning right through until the end. It is fast-paced, intriguing and sucks you into Zinnie’s world from the start. Zinnie is a very likeable protagonist who is a strong female lead. She is caring for her sisters, resourceful and very logical. She battles with being seen as a little girl when she is very capable and able to see things in a clear way that only children can.
Zinnie is like a young Sherlock Holmes, solving a mystery and being brilliantly kind and caring at the same time. She is fiercely loyal and will protect her sisters until the very end. This book shows that through determination and spirit you can change your life.
There are so many strong characters in this story, all strong in different ways. There is someone for everyone. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure mystery story, this should be top of your list.
I loved this book from the beginning right through until the end. It is fast-paced, intriguing and sucks you into Zinnie’s world from the start. Zinnie is a very likeable protagonist who is a strong female lead. She is caring for her sisters, resourceful and very logical. She battles with being seen as a little girl when she is very capable and able to see things in a clear way that only children can.
Zinnie is like a young Sherlock Holmes, solving a mystery and being brilliantly kind and caring at the same time. She is fiercely loyal and will protect her sisters until the very end. This book shows that through determination and spirit you can change your life.
There are so many strong characters in this story, all strong in different ways. There is someone for everyone. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure mystery story, this should be top of your list.
April 30, 2025
A strange story I have to say & one that & I'm afraid to say this - I was drawn to read by the cover drawings!! I either saw it in Sainsburys - as normal - or on Amazon!
Having said it was a strange story, it was one I enjoyed and one where, towards the end I couldn't out the book down as I so wanted to know how it ended.
Loved the characters & the warmth of the main characters and in a way, I loved the simplicity of the story and characters - it was a lovely book just to pick up and read and relax with!
Having said it was a strange story, it was one I enjoyed and one where, towards the end I couldn't out the book down as I so wanted to know how it ended.
Loved the characters & the warmth of the main characters and in a way, I loved the simplicity of the story and characters - it was a lovely book just to pick up and read and relax with!
June 4, 2020
A fast-paced and thrilling adventure story about girls in the underworld of Victorian Edinburgh. Gosling brings together a cast of unforgettable characters: street urchin Zinnie and her sisters; the young Arthur Conan Doyle, Sophia Jex-Blake – the first female doctor in Scotland – to tell her tale of ghosts, seances, an unsolved murder – and of course, the House of Hidden Wonders itself. A wonderful, atmospheric read, with inspiring role models for girls.
March 7, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and the author for the ARC of this book.
A great children’s mystery story partly set in Edinburgh’s underground city - that’s all I needed to know before requesting it! Likeable characters and an interesting read. Would be great if it was made into a series!
A great children’s mystery story partly set in Edinburgh’s underground city - that’s all I needed to know before requesting it! Likeable characters and an interesting read. Would be great if it was made into a series!
March 24, 2020
I loved the weaving of Conan Doyle into this intriguing mystery story with a fabulous strong female protagonist. Zinnie was extremely likeable with her desire to help others (especially her sisters) at all costs. The action of the story was well paced and readable, with genuine fears for characters within the story. All in all, a fantastic story that I devoured quickly and enjoyed very much.
March 25, 2020
Well I sped through this once I was into it! This was a great bit of mystery, supernatural and girl power mixed with a massive chunk of Edinburgh history. I loved the characters and the rich plot! Yay for girls owning their own lives, their sense of sisterhood (and found families) and making their own decisions. Mix in a pretty ominous baddie and you’ve got a winner!
June 2, 2021
What is most evident in this novel (which I listened to) is the amount of research the author, Sharon GOSLING, has gone into for this novel. This results in the reader actually 'feeling' being in those places she describes. Her characters do take a bit of understanding, and yes some of the events are rather fanaticised, but in all, it is an excellent piece of fiction.
High recommended.
High recommended.
March 1, 2022
I have loved every second of this book.
The characters are perfect. Zinnie is tough, clever and sweet and caring. I love that the adults try to help them, but respect their decisions, and just go with it.
I can't wait for my wee one to be a bit older so we can read it together.
Also living in Edinburgh and being able to picture/know where they are at all times is a plus!
The characters are perfect. Zinnie is tough, clever and sweet and caring. I love that the adults try to help them, but respect their decisions, and just go with it.
I can't wait for my wee one to be a bit older so we can read it together.
Also living in Edinburgh and being able to picture/know where they are at all times is a plus!
March 17, 2020
The Edinburgh underworld. Rumours of a ghost. A mystery to solve. A house of wonders. Fortune telling. And Arthur Conan Doyle as a character. I love a book that has any of these elements in it, and this book has them all. Highly recommended.
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