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The Whisperling #1
The Whisperling
When you're dead, you're dead. When you're gone, you're gone. Unless, of course, you're not. And that's where I come in. The year is 1897, and Peggy Devona can speak with ghosts. She hides her gift from those afraid of a girl with such powers, terrified of the secrets the dead could reveal through her. But when her best friend is accused of murdering her rich mistress, Peggy knows only she - a whisperling - can save her. Peggy escapes to her uncle's psychic emporium in the city, seeking out new ghosts to help her solve Sally's case. Yet time is running out, and each step towards uncovering the truth also brings Sally one step closer to the gallows. . .
352 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2022
6 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Hayley Hoskins
3 books6 followersLong-listed for the Bath Children's Novel award, Hayley Hoskins writes in the space between family and work, with much support from her writing group.
Mum to a teenage boy, she spends a disproportionate amount of time hoping that her son's life is far less complicated than those of the characters in her books, and trying to ensure he becomes a 'good egg'.
Originally from the Forest of Dean, Hayley lives with her family and hairy breeze-block of a dog in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Her debut children's novel, The Whisperling, was long-listed for the Branford Boase Award. The follow up, The Whisperling Twins, publishes in summer 2024.
Mum to a teenage boy, she spends a disproportionate amount of time hoping that her son's life is far less complicated than those of the characters in her books, and trying to ensure he becomes a 'good egg'.
Originally from the Forest of Dean, Hayley lives with her family and hairy breeze-block of a dog in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Her debut children's novel, The Whisperling, was long-listed for the Branford Boase Award. The follow up, The Whisperling Twins, publishes in summer 2024.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 9, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Kaleidoscopic book tours.
The Whisperling is set in 1897 where we meet Peggy Devona. Peggy has a secret gift she hides due to the fear others will have of her if they find out. But when her best friend Sally is accused of murder, Peggy knows she is Sally's only hope of being saved. Peggy is a whisperling - someone who can communicate with the dead. And she knows she needs their help to save Sally. But Tim's is running out and Peggy needs to act fast with all the help she can get, before it's too late!
What a spellbinding and captivating read this was. Its very hard to believe this is a debut novel as it is absolutely amazing! I loved the characters and found them uplifting and inspiring to the younger reader. Topics covered within this story include found family, death, loss, prejudice, acceptance and forgiveness. The dark gothic atmosphere is just the right amount for the story and the scene its set in. I'm so excited about what's in store next for this promising new author!
The Whisperling is set in 1897 where we meet Peggy Devona. Peggy has a secret gift she hides due to the fear others will have of her if they find out. But when her best friend Sally is accused of murder, Peggy knows she is Sally's only hope of being saved. Peggy is a whisperling - someone who can communicate with the dead. And she knows she needs their help to save Sally. But Tim's is running out and Peggy needs to act fast with all the help she can get, before it's too late!
What a spellbinding and captivating read this was. Its very hard to believe this is a debut novel as it is absolutely amazing! I loved the characters and found them uplifting and inspiring to the younger reader. Topics covered within this story include found family, death, loss, prejudice, acceptance and forgiveness. The dark gothic atmosphere is just the right amount for the story and the scene its set in. I'm so excited about what's in store next for this promising new author!
March 10, 2023
Peggy is a whisperling, but hides her ability to speak to the dead from everyone in her village. What would they think if they knew the truth - what would they do?
But when her best friend Sally is accused of the worst possible crime, Peggy realises she is the only one who can help her, even if it means drawing attention to herself and her powers.
Fleeing from her tiny village to the big, scary city of Bristol, Peggy risks everything to save Sally’s neck from the hangman’s noose, bravely taking up residence at her estranged uncle’s Psychic Emporium in order to get closer to the ghosts that can help her.
A Victorian gothic middle grade ghost crime story…. I was already sold… and Hoskins didn’t fail to deliver. Her story and setting were atmospheric and eerie and the plot kept me reading and reading as I just needed to know how everything turned out. I don’t want to give too much away because it’s such a fab story that you should just read it so all I will say again is that if you love a good ghost story and are a fan of historical gothic fiction then this book is right up your street, young or old.
But when her best friend Sally is accused of the worst possible crime, Peggy realises she is the only one who can help her, even if it means drawing attention to herself and her powers.
Fleeing from her tiny village to the big, scary city of Bristol, Peggy risks everything to save Sally’s neck from the hangman’s noose, bravely taking up residence at her estranged uncle’s Psychic Emporium in order to get closer to the ghosts that can help her.
A Victorian gothic middle grade ghost crime story…. I was already sold… and Hoskins didn’t fail to deliver. Her story and setting were atmospheric and eerie and the plot kept me reading and reading as I just needed to know how everything turned out. I don’t want to give too much away because it’s such a fab story that you should just read it so all I will say again is that if you love a good ghost story and are a fan of historical gothic fiction then this book is right up your street, young or old.
September 15, 2022
*Thank you to Kaleidoscopic and Puffin for my copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review*
I don’t usually read a lot of middle grade, but I have been trying to read more recently, and this sounded like the perfect one for me to read. I was definitely not mistaken, because The Whisperling was fantastic.
The story begins with Peggy Devona, and her best friend Sally. Peggy is a whisperling, which means she can speak to the dead, but she can not reveal her secret because people’s fear can make them do crazy things. But of course Sally knows her secret. When the two friends fall out, Peggy is left feeling very alone, and when she tries to contact Sally, all she gets in response is silence. This is soon revealed to be because Sally has been arrested, and will be being sentenced to death for a crime that Peggy knows her friend would never have committed. Now, her gift could be the only thing that could save Sally.
Set in the Victorian era, I think that Hayley Hoskins did a brilliant job of capturing that era, and especially the way they felt about the paranormal. We got a real feel of their day to day life too. As someone who has always been fascinated by all aspects of history, I really enjoyed this element of the story.
There is a real mix of characters within the story, with some rather large personalities. Cecily and Oti were two of my personal favourites, they were bright and fun, and were always willing to help Peggy with anything she needed. Peggy herself was an interesting character, because she was very sweet and caring, but also extremely strong, and determined to do everything in her power to save her friend. Her loyalty to Sally never wavered, and that’s the sort of friend we all need in our lives.
I absolutely loved following Peggy while she explored her gift, which was getting stronger by the day. Despite her young age, she clearly understood the seriousness of what she was able to do, and she respected it, while also wanting to push her abilities in order to help Sally.
The plot twist ending was completely unexpected. I certainly didn’t see it coming, and when it did, it absolutely broke me. I haven’t cried that much at a book in quite a while. It was so brilliantly written that I felt every emotion. But this twist flows so beautifully in to the ending of this story, and makes for a very interesting ending, which also leaves room for a sequel.
This book was so much more than I had expected it to be. It was fast paced, emotional, exciting, and a real joy to read. What a fantastic debut from Hayley Hoskins, and I’m definitely hoping to read more about the Devona’s in the future. This is probably one of the best middle grade novels I have ever read.
I give The Whisperling a 4.5 star rating!
I don’t usually read a lot of middle grade, but I have been trying to read more recently, and this sounded like the perfect one for me to read. I was definitely not mistaken, because The Whisperling was fantastic.
The story begins with Peggy Devona, and her best friend Sally. Peggy is a whisperling, which means she can speak to the dead, but she can not reveal her secret because people’s fear can make them do crazy things. But of course Sally knows her secret. When the two friends fall out, Peggy is left feeling very alone, and when she tries to contact Sally, all she gets in response is silence. This is soon revealed to be because Sally has been arrested, and will be being sentenced to death for a crime that Peggy knows her friend would never have committed. Now, her gift could be the only thing that could save Sally.
Set in the Victorian era, I think that Hayley Hoskins did a brilliant job of capturing that era, and especially the way they felt about the paranormal. We got a real feel of their day to day life too. As someone who has always been fascinated by all aspects of history, I really enjoyed this element of the story.
There is a real mix of characters within the story, with some rather large personalities. Cecily and Oti were two of my personal favourites, they were bright and fun, and were always willing to help Peggy with anything she needed. Peggy herself was an interesting character, because she was very sweet and caring, but also extremely strong, and determined to do everything in her power to save her friend. Her loyalty to Sally never wavered, and that’s the sort of friend we all need in our lives.
I absolutely loved following Peggy while she explored her gift, which was getting stronger by the day. Despite her young age, she clearly understood the seriousness of what she was able to do, and she respected it, while also wanting to push her abilities in order to help Sally.
The plot twist ending was completely unexpected. I certainly didn’t see it coming, and when it did, it absolutely broke me. I haven’t cried that much at a book in quite a while. It was so brilliantly written that I felt every emotion. But this twist flows so beautifully in to the ending of this story, and makes for a very interesting ending, which also leaves room for a sequel.
This book was so much more than I had expected it to be. It was fast paced, emotional, exciting, and a real joy to read. What a fantastic debut from Hayley Hoskins, and I’m definitely hoping to read more about the Devona’s in the future. This is probably one of the best middle grade novels I have ever read.
I give The Whisperling a 4.5 star rating!
September 10, 2022
4.5 stars
Spooky season is upon us and The Whisperling is a great addition to a spooky TBR. Set in Bristol in the Victorian era we start with Peggy (Margaret Devon’s) and her best friend Sally having a disagreement and then Sally goes silent on her. But it’s not just a case of Peggy being sent to Coventry, instead Sally has been charged with murdering her mistress and is set to hang.
Peggy is a Whisperling and she can see and speak to ghosts and witness their burn (where they head to the next plane of existence) but although signs around town suggest that people are to accept any Whisperlings amongst them people still remember when witches roamed and dictating inclusion does not inclusion create. Especially not with judgemental clergy spouting about the devil.
For her own “safety” Peggy joins her estranged uncle in the city and is set to work at his Psychic Emporium with Oti and Cecily. The Victorian fascination with Spiritualism led to a lot of hokey seances but what happens when a real Whisperling is added to the mix?
The thread of mystery runs alongside with the urgency of solving the murder to clear Sally’s name before she hangs. There’s a Q&A with the author at the back of the book that talks about her inspirations and some of the real life cases of young girls receiving a death sentence. Add in the threat of ‘The Righteous’ - Whisperling Finders and there is plenty of peril for a middle grade tale.
The villain of the piece may be who you expect but there’s enough red herrings along the way to keep you guessing. In fact there’s a really early gasp inducing moment that gets twisted (although I think it would have also made an interesting story to go with what I thought had happened).
I really liked the family story alongside this too. With Peggy’s father not having trusted her with the family secrets, mysterious pictures of her uncle and mother and a generational line of whisperlings - not to mention the not quite spectre with raven hair.
This is like a middle grade Ghost Whisperer and it is left open for more stories of whisperlings past, present and future. I’ll definitely check them out when they appear.
A nod must also go to Kristina Kister for the stunning cover design which makes me hope to see this as an animated film.
A huge thanks to Blue at Kaleidoscopic Tours and the publisher Puffin for the gifted copy for the purposes of an honest review.
Spooky season is upon us and The Whisperling is a great addition to a spooky TBR. Set in Bristol in the Victorian era we start with Peggy (Margaret Devon’s) and her best friend Sally having a disagreement and then Sally goes silent on her. But it’s not just a case of Peggy being sent to Coventry, instead Sally has been charged with murdering her mistress and is set to hang.
Peggy is a Whisperling and she can see and speak to ghosts and witness their burn (where they head to the next plane of existence) but although signs around town suggest that people are to accept any Whisperlings amongst them people still remember when witches roamed and dictating inclusion does not inclusion create. Especially not with judgemental clergy spouting about the devil.
For her own “safety” Peggy joins her estranged uncle in the city and is set to work at his Psychic Emporium with Oti and Cecily. The Victorian fascination with Spiritualism led to a lot of hokey seances but what happens when a real Whisperling is added to the mix?
The thread of mystery runs alongside with the urgency of solving the murder to clear Sally’s name before she hangs. There’s a Q&A with the author at the back of the book that talks about her inspirations and some of the real life cases of young girls receiving a death sentence. Add in the threat of ‘The Righteous’ - Whisperling Finders and there is plenty of peril for a middle grade tale.
The villain of the piece may be who you expect but there’s enough red herrings along the way to keep you guessing. In fact there’s a really early gasp inducing moment that gets twisted (although I think it would have also made an interesting story to go with what I thought had happened).
I really liked the family story alongside this too. With Peggy’s father not having trusted her with the family secrets, mysterious pictures of her uncle and mother and a generational line of whisperlings - not to mention the not quite spectre with raven hair.
This is like a middle grade Ghost Whisperer and it is left open for more stories of whisperlings past, present and future. I’ll definitely check them out when they appear.
A nod must also go to Kristina Kister for the stunning cover design which makes me hope to see this as an animated film.
A huge thanks to Blue at Kaleidoscopic Tours and the publisher Puffin for the gifted copy for the purposes of an honest review.
November 19, 2022
Wow, what a debut.
This book is so atmospheric, spooky and gripping as it moves at a fast pace with a few plot twists thrown in to keep you hooked. The characterisation is great and it has a real gothic feel.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Netgalley in providing this arc in return for a honest review.
This book is so atmospheric, spooky and gripping as it moves at a fast pace with a few plot twists thrown in to keep you hooked. The characterisation is great and it has a real gothic feel.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Netgalley in providing this arc in return for a honest review.
January 7, 2023
I did a bit of research throughout the book and it turns out the story is in fact not set in 1897 like it was said at the beginning. Though I can't tell when it is set, because of a mixture of historical events.
While it is not a disaster and a lot of facts are true, those little "mistakes" bothered me a lot and made it hard to just follow and enjoy the story.
The characters:
Were pretty boring and most of them annoying. But the protagonist hat a bit of a character development moment, so I'll let that one slide.
The storyline:
I think the idea of the book was wonderful. It had so much potential but the execution was terrible. Which leads me to my next point
The writing:
70% of this book were so incredibly boring. And the beginning (first 50 pages or so), had a terrible writing style. Every major moment (like Peggys and Sallys fight) happened in 3 pages and it felt so rushed. Luckily that changed during the book, otherwise I wouldn't have read the whole thing.
But i still rate this book 2/5 because some parts were really good and enjoyable, I just wished it would've been more, than just 70 pages.
While it is not a disaster and a lot of facts are true, those little "mistakes" bothered me a lot and made it hard to just follow and enjoy the story.
The characters:
Were pretty boring and most of them annoying. But the protagonist hat a bit of a character development moment, so I'll let that one slide.
The storyline:
I think the idea of the book was wonderful. It had so much potential but the execution was terrible. Which leads me to my next point
The writing:
70% of this book were so incredibly boring. And the beginning (first 50 pages or so), had a terrible writing style. Every major moment (like Peggys and Sallys fight) happened in 3 pages and it felt so rushed. Luckily that changed during the book, otherwise I wouldn't have read the whole thing.
But i still rate this book 2/5 because some parts were really good and enjoyable, I just wished it would've been more, than just 70 pages.
August 26, 2023
4.5 stars
I'm thrilled to see a second Whisperling book has been anounced, because this was just delightful. It was creepy, it was suspenseful, it was beautifully written; what more could I want? Hoskins has also clearly done her research into the Victorian period, which is always appreciated.
I'm really looking forward to that second Whisperling book!
I'm thrilled to see a second Whisperling book has been anounced, because this was just delightful. It was creepy, it was suspenseful, it was beautifully written; what more could I want? Hoskins has also clearly done her research into the Victorian period, which is always appreciated.
I'm really looking forward to that second Whisperling book!
December 24, 2022
Woweeeeee 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹
September 12, 2022
A highly entertaining debut novel, perfect for the upcoming spooky season.
The Whisperling is atmospheric and haunting. The settings of the fictional Victorian world and the Psychic Emporium were perfect, very gothic, dark and shrouded in mystery.
I was hooked from the very first page, so any young ghost hunters in the family will love it.
It's characters are diverse, the plotline compelling and its a highly enjoyable, immersive read.
Many thanks to Kaleidoscopic Tours for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Whisperling is atmospheric and haunting. The settings of the fictional Victorian world and the Psychic Emporium were perfect, very gothic, dark and shrouded in mystery.
I was hooked from the very first page, so any young ghost hunters in the family will love it.
It's characters are diverse, the plotline compelling and its a highly enjoyable, immersive read.
Many thanks to Kaleidoscopic Tours for my tour spot.
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 3, 2025
This story follows Peggie, a ‘Whisperling’ who is able to speak to the dead. She uses her ability to help her friend who has been assured of murdering the lady of the house where she works as a housekeeper. As the story progresses we learn more about Peggie’s abilities and how she can use them for good!
All I can say is super impressed! For a debut novel, this is truly wonderful! So full of atmosphere and intrigue. Although this book is targeted as a young adult / middle grade age, it can totally be read across all ages. There were some more adult themes, which may be missed by a younger reader that an adult would certainly relate too. Loved the original concept of what a ‘Whispering’ is and what their gift enables them to do as there are so many other concepts of what a person who can speak to the dead can do and the powers they hold. Hayley’s idea was truly unique and really beautiful and the ‘burn’ was a great concept. Although Peggy’s abilities evolved over time, I think at times and certainly at the start of the book, I think there could have been a little more clarity on what a ‘Whisperling’ was and maybe narrow down their ability, as I found there maybe was a little too much going on towards the end - such as the future self, maybe not necessarily needed or explained a little more. Also the idea around ‘The Righteous’ was only touched on slightly - maybe this idea will be revealed more in future novels? Overall, a great concept, fantastically written and would absolutely recommend to read 👏
All I can say is super impressed! For a debut novel, this is truly wonderful! So full of atmosphere and intrigue. Although this book is targeted as a young adult / middle grade age, it can totally be read across all ages. There were some more adult themes, which may be missed by a younger reader that an adult would certainly relate too. Loved the original concept of what a ‘Whispering’ is and what their gift enables them to do as there are so many other concepts of what a person who can speak to the dead can do and the powers they hold. Hayley’s idea was truly unique and really beautiful and the ‘burn’ was a great concept. Although Peggy’s abilities evolved over time, I think at times and certainly at the start of the book, I think there could have been a little more clarity on what a ‘Whisperling’ was and maybe narrow down their ability, as I found there maybe was a little too much going on towards the end - such as the future self, maybe not necessarily needed or explained a little more. Also the idea around ‘The Righteous’ was only touched on slightly - maybe this idea will be revealed more in future novels? Overall, a great concept, fantastically written and would absolutely recommend to read 👏
December 23, 2023
When you're dead, you're dead. When you're gone, you're gone. Unless, of course, you're not. And that's where I come in.
-Hayley Hoskins
Dear readers, dorks, bookworms, schoolers and friends. A new story or should I say a new adventure, a new journey into the book of whisperlings, ghosts, spirits, and the vintage 1897. Peggy Devona a 12 year old girl who has this secret gift of speaking to the dead, with her parents having a business of dead. Those late, old fashion days people wouldn't accept people with gifts or should I say Witches... The young girl scared to get captured of being such but when her best friend is accused of murdering her rich mistress she had to take matters in her own hands. The journey to the gaol was a long way to save her best friend... while her uncle may make matters worse or maybe better.
Now people that is TRUE FRIENDSHIP! MOST OF US GET BETRAYED BY OUR BEST FRIENDS BUT LEARN FROM THESE GIRLS!
This book is an awfully amazing journey. I recommend this to ages 10-14. See you my fellow friends as we unravel and discover our next adventure together.
Guess what it would be???
-Hayley Hoskins
Dear readers, dorks, bookworms, schoolers and friends. A new story or should I say a new adventure, a new journey into the book of whisperlings, ghosts, spirits, and the vintage 1897. Peggy Devona a 12 year old girl who has this secret gift of speaking to the dead, with her parents having a business of dead. Those late, old fashion days people wouldn't accept people with gifts or should I say Witches... The young girl scared to get captured of being such but when her best friend is accused of murdering her rich mistress she had to take matters in her own hands. The journey to the gaol was a long way to save her best friend... while her uncle may make matters worse or maybe better.
Now people that is TRUE FRIENDSHIP! MOST OF US GET BETRAYED BY OUR BEST FRIENDS BUT LEARN FROM THESE GIRLS!
This book is an awfully amazing journey. I recommend this to ages 10-14. See you my fellow friends as we unravel and discover our next adventure together.
Guess what it would be???
September 1, 2022
The Whisperling is a sublime ghost story, with a terrifying villain, an endearing heroine, some incredibly powerful emotional punches, a strong sense of social justice and an almost overwhelming sense of peril. I absolutely loved it.
There's a strong sense of unease about the whole thing, as there should be with a good ghost story. Peggy can talk to ghosts, sure, but she doesn't really understand it or her powers beyond the bare minimum. That knowledge has been passed down through her family, but it's in a book her pa won't let her read until she's older. So we get to see this rather vague and unspecified ability, and when it shifts and changes that makes sense because there's so much we don't know about it. We're effectively learning as we go through it just as Peggy is. This works so much better than just setting out all of the supernatural rules early in the book, and lends the whole piece a mystery and unease. We do know, however, that whisperlings, people who can see and talk to the dead, are feared and hated, with frequent comparisons made to the witches. Some of these suggest that the witches too were real and maybe things played out slightly differently to how they did in our own reality.
Peggy herself is a lovely character. Through her determination and strength of character, I grew really attached to her. She stood up for what she believed in no matter how scared or uncertain she was. I really felt for her with everything that happened to her.
The Reverend Tait is one of the best villains I've come across in a while. He is absolutely awful! Vile, repugnant, opiniated, controlling. He's the kind of villain you absolutely love to hate!
The supporting cast were also excellent. I particularly loved Oti and Cecily, their way of speaking, their attitude to Victorian life and particularly their costumes. They both really came to life on the page. Sally was a really lovely character who took us on an extraordinarily emotional journey that near broke my heart.
As well as the creepy mysterious elements, The Whisperling really packs an emotional punch. Early in the book, a letter from a dead mother to her son had me in tears. It was so simple, and so beautiful. There are further deaths that really actually hurt. And twists and revelations by the end that had me weeping. This is a book that knows how to play with your emotions, keep you guessing and then really deliver! There's a real sense of peril too, that builds and builds right through to the incredible, dramatic climax.
Tears and fears from The Whisperling, in the best possible way. A beautiful and powerful book!
There's a strong sense of unease about the whole thing, as there should be with a good ghost story. Peggy can talk to ghosts, sure, but she doesn't really understand it or her powers beyond the bare minimum. That knowledge has been passed down through her family, but it's in a book her pa won't let her read until she's older. So we get to see this rather vague and unspecified ability, and when it shifts and changes that makes sense because there's so much we don't know about it. We're effectively learning as we go through it just as Peggy is. This works so much better than just setting out all of the supernatural rules early in the book, and lends the whole piece a mystery and unease. We do know, however, that whisperlings, people who can see and talk to the dead, are feared and hated, with frequent comparisons made to the witches. Some of these suggest that the witches too were real and maybe things played out slightly differently to how they did in our own reality.
Peggy herself is a lovely character. Through her determination and strength of character, I grew really attached to her. She stood up for what she believed in no matter how scared or uncertain she was. I really felt for her with everything that happened to her.
The Reverend Tait is one of the best villains I've come across in a while. He is absolutely awful! Vile, repugnant, opiniated, controlling. He's the kind of villain you absolutely love to hate!
The supporting cast were also excellent. I particularly loved Oti and Cecily, their way of speaking, their attitude to Victorian life and particularly their costumes. They both really came to life on the page. Sally was a really lovely character who took us on an extraordinarily emotional journey that near broke my heart.
As well as the creepy mysterious elements, The Whisperling really packs an emotional punch. Early in the book, a letter from a dead mother to her son had me in tears. It was so simple, and so beautiful. There are further deaths that really actually hurt. And twists and revelations by the end that had me weeping. This is a book that knows how to play with your emotions, keep you guessing and then really deliver! There's a real sense of peril too, that builds and builds right through to the incredible, dramatic climax.
Tears and fears from The Whisperling, in the best possible way. A beautiful and powerful book!
September 8, 2022
A Fantastical adventure The Whisperling will make you wonder who is sat in the empty chair at the table!
The Story follows Margaret (Peggy) on her journey to discover just how powerful her gift of talking to spirits is. After, fear mongering turns the village against her and the trouble her best friend has got herself into Peggy finds she must seek the help of an unlikely bunch of “charlatans” to help her rescue her friend Sally and unlock the true potential of her abilities.
An incredibly well written magical fantasy story that children and grown ups alike will enjoy. Set in the middle grade genre I did feel there were parts that were definitely on the older end of the grade and as far as fantasy goes this book is way up there with some of the best I’ve read in adult genres!
I loved Peggy and her family, I felt immediate warmth for Peggy and felt for her, trapped with a gift she wasn’t sure she wanted and in testament to the authors skill, I felt the pain and fear she experienced throughout the story, an incredibly powerful twist at the end had me bursting into tears.
It’s so difficult to do a review of The Whisperling without giving too much away as there as so many good bits of this story that keep you gripped from beginning to end, a perfect mix of peril and adventure that kept me turning page after page, not one part of this storyline dragged, there was no lull as the scene was set it just got cracking. I didn’t feel it lost anything by being as fast paced as it was as the author carefully weaved in context and world development as they went.
This book left me wanting more and I so hope I’ll be reading more about the Devona's’ soon but let me leave you with this….As a book blogger I read A LOT of books on a weekly basis and in all honesty not all of them stay in my memory for very long, there are a special few that I can recall the full story just by looking at it on the shelf. I truly believe that The Whisperling by Hayley Hoskins has earned it’s little place in my forever memory and I cannot wait until my nearly middle grader is ready for this one so it can be a forever book for her to!
Review Originally published at: https://www.thepursuitofbookiness.co....
We received a copy of this book free of charge in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
The Story follows Margaret (Peggy) on her journey to discover just how powerful her gift of talking to spirits is. After, fear mongering turns the village against her and the trouble her best friend has got herself into Peggy finds she must seek the help of an unlikely bunch of “charlatans” to help her rescue her friend Sally and unlock the true potential of her abilities.
An incredibly well written magical fantasy story that children and grown ups alike will enjoy. Set in the middle grade genre I did feel there were parts that were definitely on the older end of the grade and as far as fantasy goes this book is way up there with some of the best I’ve read in adult genres!
I loved Peggy and her family, I felt immediate warmth for Peggy and felt for her, trapped with a gift she wasn’t sure she wanted and in testament to the authors skill, I felt the pain and fear she experienced throughout the story, an incredibly powerful twist at the end had me bursting into tears.
It’s so difficult to do a review of The Whisperling without giving too much away as there as so many good bits of this story that keep you gripped from beginning to end, a perfect mix of peril and adventure that kept me turning page after page, not one part of this storyline dragged, there was no lull as the scene was set it just got cracking. I didn’t feel it lost anything by being as fast paced as it was as the author carefully weaved in context and world development as they went.
This book left me wanting more and I so hope I’ll be reading more about the Devona's’ soon but let me leave you with this….As a book blogger I read A LOT of books on a weekly basis and in all honesty not all of them stay in my memory for very long, there are a special few that I can recall the full story just by looking at it on the shelf. I truly believe that The Whisperling by Hayley Hoskins has earned it’s little place in my forever memory and I cannot wait until my nearly middle grader is ready for this one so it can be a forever book for her to!
Review Originally published at: https://www.thepursuitofbookiness.co....
We received a copy of this book free of charge in return for an honest review. All opinions are our own.
September 1, 2022
Peggy can see the dead, when they die they burn bright and she can take final messages to their loved ones or a warning if disaster has fallen.
She tried when she was little to convince the vicar there had been an accident at the mine but he didn't listen and more souls were lost than necessary. There were whispers and looks after so her Pa told her to stay quiet, hide her gift and he'd hand down the family Book of Devona when she was older.
Now 12, she's having trouble with her best friend who hasn't been in touch since the fall out they had.
Her Uncle keeps coming around to discuss things & they all try to keep her out the way, she knows they are talking about her & her Uncle wanting her to work at his Clairvoyance House in Bristol Town.
Decisions are made for the small family when Peggy makes the decision to help. The whole village is suspicious she is a Whisperling already.
Her Ms and Pa pack her off to her Uncle where something even more sinister is occurring. Something that has been kept from Peggy.
She must now use her wit and skills to help save a life. Can she trust anyone?
This was a very entertaining read, great for widening vocabulary and I'd recommend for 10 - 14 year olds as Peggy is a bold character and is mature for her years.
The action is well paced within the plot and I did have tears towards the end of the book. I'm so pleased there are to be more in the Whisperling Series.
She tried when she was little to convince the vicar there had been an accident at the mine but he didn't listen and more souls were lost than necessary. There were whispers and looks after so her Pa told her to stay quiet, hide her gift and he'd hand down the family Book of Devona when she was older.
Now 12, she's having trouble with her best friend who hasn't been in touch since the fall out they had.
Her Uncle keeps coming around to discuss things & they all try to keep her out the way, she knows they are talking about her & her Uncle wanting her to work at his Clairvoyance House in Bristol Town.
Decisions are made for the small family when Peggy makes the decision to help. The whole village is suspicious she is a Whisperling already.
Her Ms and Pa pack her off to her Uncle where something even more sinister is occurring. Something that has been kept from Peggy.
She must now use her wit and skills to help save a life. Can she trust anyone?
This was a very entertaining read, great for widening vocabulary and I'd recommend for 10 - 14 year olds as Peggy is a bold character and is mature for her years.
The action is well paced within the plot and I did have tears towards the end of the book. I'm so pleased there are to be more in the Whisperling Series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2022
I love it when a book begins in an undertakers. You can guarantee a ghostly experience. The author gives us her unique twist on a well known genre.
Peggy is a whisperling who can speak to the dead before they pass over with the burn. Her family have to keep it a secret because a lot of people are frightened by her skill and don’t want their secrets revealed by the dead. But when her best friend, Sally is accused of murder, Peggy knows she must use her powers to save her from execution.
Peggy is a fabulous character who knows how to value true friendship and her loved ones. As the story progresses, so does her unique gift with the help of the people around her. She starts to understand what it really means to be a whisperling. The ending was action packed and explosive with an unexpected twist.
Set in 1897, the author has captured the gothic atmosphere and the fear of clairvoyance among the general public. This book is utterly spell-bounding and it was a complete joy to root for Peggy as she came to understand what she was actually capable of. This book is middle grade fiction and perfect for fans of Sophie Anderson, Jenni Spangler and Michelle Harrison.
I really hope we get to meet Peggy again as she learns to be the clairvoyant she was always destined to be.
Peggy is a whisperling who can speak to the dead before they pass over with the burn. Her family have to keep it a secret because a lot of people are frightened by her skill and don’t want their secrets revealed by the dead. But when her best friend, Sally is accused of murder, Peggy knows she must use her powers to save her from execution.
Peggy is a fabulous character who knows how to value true friendship and her loved ones. As the story progresses, so does her unique gift with the help of the people around her. She starts to understand what it really means to be a whisperling. The ending was action packed and explosive with an unexpected twist.
Set in 1897, the author has captured the gothic atmosphere and the fear of clairvoyance among the general public. This book is utterly spell-bounding and it was a complete joy to root for Peggy as she came to understand what she was actually capable of. This book is middle grade fiction and perfect for fans of Sophie Anderson, Jenni Spangler and Michelle Harrison.
I really hope we get to meet Peggy again as she learns to be the clairvoyant she was always destined to be.
December 23, 2023
"When you're dead, you're dead. When you're gone, you're gone. Unless, of course, you're not. And that's where I come in."
Didn't that line leave an impression on you? Well, it left one on me!
That line you just read is an amazing line that describes the book I am about to review.
****Drum roll please****
It's "The Whisperling," an amazing book by Hayley Hoskins. Usually, I don't give five-star reviews, but this one undoubtedly deserves it!
You may wonder, what is so good about this book? Well, let me make you delve into the book!
The year is 1897, and Peggy Devona can speak to ghosts! Shhhhh... don't tell anyone!
She hides this secret from everyone, but when her best friend is accused of murder, she can't hold back. She moves to her uncle's psychic emporium, to help solve her best friend's case. Can she save Sally, whilst time is ticking?
Read ahead to unravel the secrets hidden in the book!
I love this book, and I'm sure you will too!
Didn't that line leave an impression on you? Well, it left one on me!
That line you just read is an amazing line that describes the book I am about to review.
****Drum roll please****
It's "The Whisperling," an amazing book by Hayley Hoskins. Usually, I don't give five-star reviews, but this one undoubtedly deserves it!
You may wonder, what is so good about this book? Well, let me make you delve into the book!
The year is 1897, and Peggy Devona can speak to ghosts! Shhhhh... don't tell anyone!
She hides this secret from everyone, but when her best friend is accused of murder, she can't hold back. She moves to her uncle's psychic emporium, to help solve her best friend's case. Can she save Sally, whilst time is ticking?
Read ahead to unravel the secrets hidden in the book!
I love this book, and I'm sure you will too!
February 21, 2023
✰ 4 stars ✰
“There is a strange sort of silence in the moments after a disaster, pierced only by the weeping of those that have lost the ones they love."
Such a wistful feeling floated in my heart as I read The Whisperling I don't know how to explain it, but I enjoyed reading about Peggy and her otherworldly powers of seeing the dead. It was a 'coming-of-age' delightful and supernatural mix of mystery, friendship, family and heartbreaking loss of loved ones.
Peggy, a young girl with the powers to communicate with the dead, also known as a Whisperling, has to find a way to save her dear best friend who has been wrongfully accused of murdering her mistress. At the same time, Peggy also to deal with her town's fear of her being a witch, causing her to leave her family and join her uncle at his special institution. As she leaves her home to uncover the truth behind the murder, she meets a colorful bunch of characters and realizes that she really is not alone, or the only one with these special gifts.
A lovely weekend read! Peggy had a lot of heart, a lot of spunk and a lot of gumption that I admired and related with. She didn't shy from speaking the truth, she genuinely cared for her loved ones, and was determined in everything that she wanted to do. I liked that she wasn't afraid of her powers, but embraced them wholeheartedly and wanted to do more to help others.
There were definitely some macabre spooky moments and I enjoyed all the different supporting cast that aided Peggy in her mission to save Sally from the prison. Very original and very unique in their own distinctive personalities. There were dark sinister souls and caring kind beings that drew you in into their lives. And ah, that little twist of a reveal at the end...I DID NOT see that coming and my heart had such a hollow ache at that moment. Peggy's reaction felt so tangible that I didn't want to believe that it was real. 😢😢
I also appreciated the Author's Note that Ms.Hoskins included at the end, as it offered some insight into the world and time period she had chosen to set her story in. And if she does indeed decide to make a series out of the other various Whisperlings that appear throughout the years, I'll definitely be checking them out. ✨✨
“There is a strange sort of silence in the moments after a disaster, pierced only by the weeping of those that have lost the ones they love."
Such a wistful feeling floated in my heart as I read The Whisperling I don't know how to explain it, but I enjoyed reading about Peggy and her otherworldly powers of seeing the dead. It was a 'coming-of-age' delightful and supernatural mix of mystery, friendship, family and heartbreaking loss of loved ones.
Peggy, a young girl with the powers to communicate with the dead, also known as a Whisperling, has to find a way to save her dear best friend who has been wrongfully accused of murdering her mistress. At the same time, Peggy also to deal with her town's fear of her being a witch, causing her to leave her family and join her uncle at his special institution. As she leaves her home to uncover the truth behind the murder, she meets a colorful bunch of characters and realizes that she really is not alone, or the only one with these special gifts.
A lovely weekend read! Peggy had a lot of heart, a lot of spunk and a lot of gumption that I admired and related with. She didn't shy from speaking the truth, she genuinely cared for her loved ones, and was determined in everything that she wanted to do. I liked that she wasn't afraid of her powers, but embraced them wholeheartedly and wanted to do more to help others.
There were definitely some macabre spooky moments and I enjoyed all the different supporting cast that aided Peggy in her mission to save Sally from the prison. Very original and very unique in their own distinctive personalities. There were dark sinister souls and caring kind beings that drew you in into their lives. And ah, that little twist of a reveal at the end...I DID NOT see that coming and my heart had such a hollow ache at that moment. Peggy's reaction felt so tangible that I didn't want to believe that it was real. 😢😢
I also appreciated the Author's Note that Ms.Hoskins included at the end, as it offered some insight into the world and time period she had chosen to set her story in. And if she does indeed decide to make a series out of the other various Whisperlings that appear throughout the years, I'll definitely be checking them out. ✨✨
March 29, 2025
This was a local (amazing) book club read, and others who read it thought it was fabulous, which is what prompted me to read it. I loved the start and was enthralled by the story and its difference. I liked the characters and was intrigued. Disappointingly, the last quarter of the book seemed rushed and slightly ridiculous compared to the rest of it. I wish the tale had ended at the same pace as the rest had been told.
I wasn't too keen on the whiney tone of the narrator, but I suppose she was playing a 14-year-old girl, and maybe that is how she imagines 14-year-old girls speak. The accent wasn't particularly Bristolian but was Westcountry. I did like recognising places that I have been and hearing what they might have been like in the past.
Probably more a 3.5 stars but 3 was too few so I went for 4.
I wasn't too keen on the whiney tone of the narrator, but I suppose she was playing a 14-year-old girl, and maybe that is how she imagines 14-year-old girls speak. The accent wasn't particularly Bristolian but was Westcountry. I did like recognising places that I have been and hearing what they might have been like in the past.
Probably more a 3.5 stars but 3 was too few so I went for 4.
August 27, 2022
The whisperlings is a piece of middle grade fiction magic!
Set in the late Victorian period, the world of phantasmagoria is brought alive in this piece for younger readers. The book is equal parts thrilling, spooky and magical.
The characters are beautifully crafted and loveable! The cast is diverse and intriguing as well as being filled with powerful women who battle against the patriarchal constraints that have been placed upon them. The story is modern and doesn’t shy away from what it was truly like to be a 12 year old girl at the time.
The plot has so many twists and turns that every chapter was a delight and you couldn’t put it down - right until the last page Hoskins was able to provide new surprises!
A 5 star recommended read to everyone!
Set in the late Victorian period, the world of phantasmagoria is brought alive in this piece for younger readers. The book is equal parts thrilling, spooky and magical.
The characters are beautifully crafted and loveable! The cast is diverse and intriguing as well as being filled with powerful women who battle against the patriarchal constraints that have been placed upon them. The story is modern and doesn’t shy away from what it was truly like to be a 12 year old girl at the time.
The plot has so many twists and turns that every chapter was a delight and you couldn’t put it down - right until the last page Hoskins was able to provide new surprises!
A 5 star recommended read to everyone!
January 7, 2023
Number: 5
Inspiration: honestly can’t remember
Rating: ****
Review: I honestly can’t remember how I heard about this book but it’s been one on my wishlist for a while and then luckily it appeared on BorrowBox so I was able to read it. It was definitely one that was a cover inspired want to read.
I really enjoyed this book and the narrator of the audiobook. It kept me gripped throughout and I listened to it at whatever spare moment I could. The characters are well developed and interesting. There were definitely a few moments that had my jaw dropping and made me want to go back through this book to see if there were any clues that I had missed.
An amazing middle grade novel and I can’t believe it’s a debut!
Bookshelf: someday add to the bookshelf.
September 13, 2022
I love reading children's books. I'm not the right age group at all, but what I love about them is they have such good stories, and this one has been a really great read for me.
Set in 1897 a young girl Peggy has a secret. She can speak to ghosts. But to save her best friend she has to use her abilities to try to save the day, even though she is danger because of it.
I think anyone who enjoys historical fiction and the supernatural will love this one. It's well written, fast paced and I read this really quickly.
It's a middle grade novel but I see no reason why adults cannot enjoy this one too. I know I did!
Set in 1897 a young girl Peggy has a secret. She can speak to ghosts. But to save her best friend she has to use her abilities to try to save the day, even though she is danger because of it.
I think anyone who enjoys historical fiction and the supernatural will love this one. It's well written, fast paced and I read this really quickly.
It's a middle grade novel but I see no reason why adults cannot enjoy this one too. I know I did!
May 11, 2025
With this being a middle grade/YA novel I was nervous that this just wouldn't hit the spot. However, the way this book is written means it caters for readers of all ages and is like nothing I've read before.
The descriptions of the characters and their temperament were perfect, I could really see them in my mind as I was reading. The story is easy to follow, gripping and mysterious which just kept me wanting to turn the page and read 'one more chapter'.
The main character is also really likeable and relatable and overall this was a really great read. Excited to read The Whisperling Twins!
The descriptions of the characters and their temperament were perfect, I could really see them in my mind as I was reading. The story is easy to follow, gripping and mysterious which just kept me wanting to turn the page and read 'one more chapter'.
The main character is also really likeable and relatable and overall this was a really great read. Excited to read The Whisperling Twins!
September 9, 2022
A clever, creepy and charming book, worth it just for the imaginative strings of victorian insults! I loved the vivid West Country setting and really appreciated the subtle layers of detail that lay the groundwork for questions about misogyny and racism in a very natural way. And of course it’s a super gripping ghost story/ murder mystery. As soon as I got to the end I wanted to go right back to the start and read it again…
October 15, 2024
An interesting read that's ambitious with what it takes on for an MG audience. Sometimes overly so! Touches on class and history and gender in some intriguing ways, even if I didn't always buy the maturity of the young narrator's voice. Unique to see a tale of a child being evacuated TO the city for safety, whereas we're so used to the opposite in historical children's fiction, of the WWII era, for example.
July 21, 2022
A dark and creepy ghost tory for children that was well written, with a conpelling storylie and well developed characters. It is full of mystery and adventure and a perfect book to get children into ghost stories. There was also an emotive element that I wasnt expecting but that really gave an extra layer to the book.
August 27, 2022
Do not start to read this book on an evening, you will end up like me and still be awake at 2am because you can't stop reading it once you start ! For a book aimed at children, it was exceptionally gripping and I know that I will be reading it again at the weekend to the grandchildren. Buy it, you will love it.
July 8, 2022
This was a fun spooky read and I hope there will be more in this series. My only criticism is that it was too short. I would have loved to have read more about Peggy and Sally. Definitely a good October book for the kids.
September 7, 2022
This is such an accomplished and highly enjoyable MG debut. With a fantastic heroine in Peggy Devona, it’s atmospheric, totally gripping, moving and witty too. Plot twists, dastardly villains and plenty of gothic girl power. We loved it.
July 1, 2023
The story had potential. I loved the idea of the paranormal set in Victorian times, but the execution left me underwhelmed.
The ending seems open enough for it to become a series, if so, I'm not invested enough to continue it though.
The ending seems open enough for it to become a series, if so, I'm not invested enough to continue it though.
January 27, 2024
Rating: 3.5/5
I read it for 2024's wicked winterween ; prompt: Read a book with a ‘W’ in the title of the book
I enjoyed this middle-grade sm! Made me realize how much I enjoy the genre and how I should be reading more of it this year! xx
I read it for 2024's wicked winterween ; prompt: Read a book with a ‘W’ in the title of the book
I enjoyed this middle-grade sm! Made me realize how much I enjoy the genre and how I should be reading more of it this year! xx
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