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Delores Mackenzie #1
The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores McKenzie
When Delores Mackenzie is chased home by a restless spirit, she is sent to the mysterious Uncles in Edinburgh Old Town to learn how to control her unusual ‘gifts’. Scared and alone, she finds her new home at the Tolbooth Book Store is full of curious surprises: some welcome, others less so. But when a sinister apparition threatens the lives of her strange new housemates, Delores must gather all her strength to save them.
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
9 people are currently reading
357 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 28, 2023
This one was oodles of fun! Well, OK, mostly oodles of fun because Prudence can just F off to whatever hell part she came from. Who the F goes to bully someone just because she is new? And why did the Uncles not do anything? They reminded me of my teachers at school, instead of helping me with the bullies they said I should just get stronger, and blablabla. *flips table*
But the rest of the story was fantastic, Scotland, a bookstore, magic, paranormal powers, several fun characters and backstory to discover, ghosts, demons, and more! I really flew through this book! It was just so fab to get more and more details on what is going on, find out more about the big baddy, see Delores do her best to fix things and help out wherever she can. I loved that it took place in a bookstore with normal books.. and some special things! The ending was a ride! Whoo~ And that cover. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. It is so pretty! Recommended!
But the rest of the story was fantastic, Scotland, a bookstore, magic, paranormal powers, several fun characters and backstory to discover, ghosts, demons, and more! I really flew through this book! It was just so fab to get more and more details on what is going on, find out more about the big baddy, see Delores do her best to fix things and help out wherever she can. I loved that it took place in a bookstore with normal books.. and some special things! The ending was a ride! Whoo~ And that cover. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. It is so pretty! Recommended!
December 11, 2022
Vivid, descriptive, immersive paranormal fantasy middle-grade story, with gothic-y vibes.
The characters are well-rounded, and the story hints to interesting back stories for all of them. Delores is a feisty MC, with just the right amount of sass. I adored Bartleby, and enjoyed the character growth of Prudence. The abilities they all showed had clearly been well though out, and I hope that the hints of the Paranormal world-building and political system will be expanded on further as Delores discovers more about her new life. The ending sets up for more stories and it has the potential to be an amazing series.
The characters are well-rounded, and the story hints to interesting back stories for all of them. Delores is a feisty MC, with just the right amount of sass. I adored Bartleby, and enjoyed the character growth of Prudence. The abilities they all showed had clearly been well though out, and I hope that the hints of the Paranormal world-building and political system will be expanded on further as Delores discovers more about her new life. The ending sets up for more stories and it has the potential to be an amazing series.
March 24, 2024
Delores can see spirits of the inbetween and is only at the start of understanding the depths of her power. Separated from her sister she is sent to Old Town Edinburgh to stay with the mysterious Uncles, where she will learn to cultivate her dangerous gift.
I loved this book. A great story with beautiful prose and the perfect setting... Edinburgh. My favourite character was the grumpy gargoyle, Bartleby. The theme of found family and belonging captured my heart and I adored how through tough obstacles, Delores began to find herself.
I'm eagerly waiting for more and I look forward to my girls reading this in the next few years. I was delighted to find a signed copy in one of my favourite bookshops: @theedinburghbookshop and highly recommend this for not just middle graders but all ages too.
I loved this book. A great story with beautiful prose and the perfect setting... Edinburgh. My favourite character was the grumpy gargoyle, Bartleby. The theme of found family and belonging captured my heart and I adored how through tough obstacles, Delores began to find herself.
I'm eagerly waiting for more and I look forward to my girls reading this in the next few years. I was delighted to find a signed copy in one of my favourite bookshops: @theedinburghbookshop and highly recommend this for not just middle graders but all ages too.
October 20, 2023
I love a story based in Edinburgh and this is an absolutely haunting book set in the streets of the Old Town taking in some of the creepiest parts of the city and weaving it into the storytelling. I really liked the main character in this and thought she was a mighty girl protagonist to be admired. Not without her flaws of course! I found some of the gate keeping in this, where the adults are keeping secrets, as frustrating as the kids did! But loved the way the story unravelled. This also has the creepiest of baddies - think The White Queen meets the Hocus Pocus Witches but with venom. She will send shivers down your spine. Spooktacular storytelling!
July 6, 2023
I really hope there’s going to be a series as this was the perfect scene-setting ‘first’ - intriguing characters, pacey plotting and mysteries aplenty. I particularly enjoyed the vivid and sparky face-offs between Delores and Prudence! More please!
December 24, 2024
Libro magico con protagonista Delores, una ragazzina speciale che deve imparare a controllare i propri "poteri" e per questa ragione è costretta a trasferirsi a vivere dagli zii.
La narrazione è avvincente e piena di mistero, i personaggi sono interessanti (la protagonista, i suoi nuovi amici e gli zii misteriosi) e la scelta della gotica Edimburgo come ambientazione è perfetta per il tema trattato: gli spettri che infestano il mondo dei vivi.
Dal finale si prospetta un seguito.
Suggerisco la lettura a tutti soprattutto agli amanti del genere fantasy. Bello, coinvolgente e... "spettrale".
La narrazione è avvincente e piena di mistero, i personaggi sono interessanti (la protagonista, i suoi nuovi amici e gli zii misteriosi) e la scelta della gotica Edimburgo come ambientazione è perfetta per il tema trattato: gli spettri che infestano il mondo dei vivi.
Dal finale si prospetta un seguito.
Suggerisco la lettura a tutti soprattutto agli amanti del genere fantasy. Bello, coinvolgente e... "spettrale".
August 13, 2023
3.5 stars
This took me a while to get into, but once I did, I had a fun time with this book. There's definitely series potential here!
This took me a while to get into, but once I did, I had a fun time with this book. There's definitely series potential here!
November 26, 2025
I think this book was pretty good.
hope there's a sequal cozz it kinda lesve u on a cliff hanger.
Do I recommend it
yes
hope there's a sequal cozz it kinda lesve u on a cliff hanger.
Do I recommend it
yes
April 22, 2023
A dark and twisted adventure down Edinburgh's haunted streets full of unique and intriguing characters you want to be friends with. This book was an absolute delight and I want more!
February 3, 2025
Vorrei un fermaporta come Bartleby ♟️😜 Ben scritto, si legge velocemente...punto di forza: molto visivo!
May 8, 2023
Intriguing premise, but the execution was lacking.
I also found it unnecessary and stereotypical that the two main female characters couldn't stand each other without apparent reason.
I also found it unnecessary and stereotypical that the two main female characters couldn't stand each other without apparent reason.
April 3, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Delores Mackenzie is able to communicate with the dead and is sent to the mysterious “Uncles” in order to what she thinks, ‘control’ her powers. Set against the spooky and historical backdrop of Edinburgh, she gets used to living with these Uncles as well as others with different supernatural gifts. While settling in, she notices someone trying to communicate with her, but this connection feels different and they need her help.
This was an absolutely delightfully spooky read! I would have absolutely loved this growing up and still enjoyed it now. I will definitely be recommending this book. Who doesn’t love a spooky little read?
Delores Mackenzie is able to communicate with the dead and is sent to the mysterious “Uncles” in order to what she thinks, ‘control’ her powers. Set against the spooky and historical backdrop of Edinburgh, she gets used to living with these Uncles as well as others with different supernatural gifts. While settling in, she notices someone trying to communicate with her, but this connection feels different and they need her help.
This was an absolutely delightfully spooky read! I would have absolutely loved this growing up and still enjoyed it now. I will definitely be recommending this book. Who doesn’t love a spooky little read?
April 6, 2023
The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie is just so creepy you can feel it running its fingers down your spine as you read it. It takes a cold grip on you and just doesn't let go.
From the very first page we're thrust into an unsettling world. Crossing a causeway through a rising tide Delores is attacked by some kind of ghost creature, pulled back hard enough to bleed, but while this is concerning, what is possibly more concerning is how unsurprised she is by it. A conversation with her sister later and we have hints and suggestions of a wider paranormal world, strange Uncles she's being sent to, and a wider organisation. This is a world where there's a shadow government monitoring and managing those with paranormal activities. Throughout the book, this larger organisation is little more than hinted at, leaving us with the tantalising prospect of their world being explored further in subsequent volumes.
From that opening sequence to the climax, a terrifying descent into the vaults beneath Edinburgh's streets, the sense of threat and peril is so very real. It's gripping, heart-in-mouth stuff as Delores does her best to hold off forces of darkness trying to find a way back into life. Delores is sent to Edinburgh, to the Tollbooth Bookshop where she's expected to study and learn how to control her powers. There are two other students there, Gabriel and Prudence, and each of them have their own, distinct powers. Delores is a necromancer, able to see the dead, though most of them are merely passing spirits brushing past her some are much, much more malevolent. Gabriel is a diviner, with the ability to read other people. Prudence is an illusionist, able to plant suggestions and visions in people's minds, and the way she uses her powers to give Delores a hard time is just amazing! I absolutely love Prudence and the way she openly embraces the fact that she's a horrible person. She knows herself, accepts herself and screw anyone who stands in her way! Gabriel is sweet and caring, and a nice conduit between the two girls.
There are mysteries aplenty in the Tollbooth Bookshop, including the two Uncles there to teach and instruct Delores, a missing girl, dolls that move around in the night, a demon doorstop and Cook. Cook is awesome. Bartleby is awesome. It's all so awesome that after reading it I am still filled with awe.
The book's setting of Edinburgh is used really, really well! This isn't the first ghost story I've read set there (check out Victoria Schwab's City of Ghosts for more) and there's something about the city that lends itself so perfectly to this kind of story. The city really feels like an integral part of the story, from its graveyards to its galleries, with all of its ghosts and tourists.
But we don't get to dwell on the mysteries of the bookshop, because there's a very terrifying villain in this novel and wow, is she scary!? The sense of fear she gives off is palpable and every confrontation with her felt fraught and dangerous.
One of the tricky things in books of this nature is the inevitable question "Why doesn't our young heroine ask for help from people more capable and experienced than she is?" and The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie answers that question with ease. Delores feels insecure, not just in her own powers but with her place in her world and the bookshop. The mysteries of that place don't encourage trust or openness so as much as the reader might be willing her to just tell the Uncles what's going on, it's very understandable how reluctant she is to do so.
There's a line early on in the book where Gabriel tells Delores that she should pay more attention to names. On one level it is a clue to a relationship in the book, one I picked up on. But I was wondering if there was more to it than that, so I paid more attention to the names.
Delores means sorrow. An appropriate name for a girl who's lost her parents and is constantly surrounded by the dead.
Gabriel, God is my strength. Again, appropriate for a diviner, or one with divine powers.
Prudence. This is so perfect for her, so much so that she comments on it herself at one point. It means caution or discretion and describes a girl who is always so careful, so guarded, so pristine with everything about her.
Angel Barguest is a name openly discussed in the book, so I'll leave that one.
Solas is an interesting one. It's Old Irish, meaning light. An odd choice for such a dark, shadowy figure that it leaves me intrigued as to what we've still got to discover about Uncle Solas.
Oddvar is Norse, and derives from the elements oddr, point of a sword, and varr, vigilant or cautious. I think that's a very good fit for this uncle, who has a quiet danger about him, and a feeling that he's much more aware of what is going on in his bookshop tower than he maybe lets on.
Maud means powerful battler. A suitable name for this brave little girl who holds out against the darkness for so long.
Ernaline, a late arrival in the book, is also Norwegian or Celtic and means capable or serious. I'm hoping we'll see more of this character.
Cook. Cook is such a mysterious figure that it's hard to say anything definite about Cook other than that I love Cook. But if I had to make a guess I'd say Cook's name is derived from all of the cooking Cook does.
Maybe I'm reading too much into this? But it feels like there's definitely something there.
Oh, and Prudence's book selling technique had me absolutely dying of laughter. I know so many booksellers who would love to be able to do that! A gorgeous little touch that made perfect use of her setting, her powers and her personality.
A dark and dangerous gift of a novel!
From the very first page we're thrust into an unsettling world. Crossing a causeway through a rising tide Delores is attacked by some kind of ghost creature, pulled back hard enough to bleed, but while this is concerning, what is possibly more concerning is how unsurprised she is by it. A conversation with her sister later and we have hints and suggestions of a wider paranormal world, strange Uncles she's being sent to, and a wider organisation. This is a world where there's a shadow government monitoring and managing those with paranormal activities. Throughout the book, this larger organisation is little more than hinted at, leaving us with the tantalising prospect of their world being explored further in subsequent volumes.
From that opening sequence to the climax, a terrifying descent into the vaults beneath Edinburgh's streets, the sense of threat and peril is so very real. It's gripping, heart-in-mouth stuff as Delores does her best to hold off forces of darkness trying to find a way back into life. Delores is sent to Edinburgh, to the Tollbooth Bookshop where she's expected to study and learn how to control her powers. There are two other students there, Gabriel and Prudence, and each of them have their own, distinct powers. Delores is a necromancer, able to see the dead, though most of them are merely passing spirits brushing past her some are much, much more malevolent. Gabriel is a diviner, with the ability to read other people. Prudence is an illusionist, able to plant suggestions and visions in people's minds, and the way she uses her powers to give Delores a hard time is just amazing! I absolutely love Prudence and the way she openly embraces the fact that she's a horrible person. She knows herself, accepts herself and screw anyone who stands in her way! Gabriel is sweet and caring, and a nice conduit between the two girls.
There are mysteries aplenty in the Tollbooth Bookshop, including the two Uncles there to teach and instruct Delores, a missing girl, dolls that move around in the night, a demon doorstop and Cook. Cook is awesome. Bartleby is awesome. It's all so awesome that after reading it I am still filled with awe.
The book's setting of Edinburgh is used really, really well! This isn't the first ghost story I've read set there (check out Victoria Schwab's City of Ghosts for more) and there's something about the city that lends itself so perfectly to this kind of story. The city really feels like an integral part of the story, from its graveyards to its galleries, with all of its ghosts and tourists.
But we don't get to dwell on the mysteries of the bookshop, because there's a very terrifying villain in this novel and wow, is she scary!? The sense of fear she gives off is palpable and every confrontation with her felt fraught and dangerous.
One of the tricky things in books of this nature is the inevitable question "Why doesn't our young heroine ask for help from people more capable and experienced than she is?" and The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie answers that question with ease. Delores feels insecure, not just in her own powers but with her place in her world and the bookshop. The mysteries of that place don't encourage trust or openness so as much as the reader might be willing her to just tell the Uncles what's going on, it's very understandable how reluctant she is to do so.
There's a line early on in the book where Gabriel tells Delores that she should pay more attention to names. On one level it is a clue to a relationship in the book, one I picked up on. But I was wondering if there was more to it than that, so I paid more attention to the names.
Delores means sorrow. An appropriate name for a girl who's lost her parents and is constantly surrounded by the dead.
Gabriel, God is my strength. Again, appropriate for a diviner, or one with divine powers.
Prudence. This is so perfect for her, so much so that she comments on it herself at one point. It means caution or discretion and describes a girl who is always so careful, so guarded, so pristine with everything about her.
Angel Barguest is a name openly discussed in the book, so I'll leave that one.
Solas is an interesting one. It's Old Irish, meaning light. An odd choice for such a dark, shadowy figure that it leaves me intrigued as to what we've still got to discover about Uncle Solas.
Oddvar is Norse, and derives from the elements oddr, point of a sword, and varr, vigilant or cautious. I think that's a very good fit for this uncle, who has a quiet danger about him, and a feeling that he's much more aware of what is going on in his bookshop tower than he maybe lets on.
Maud means powerful battler. A suitable name for this brave little girl who holds out against the darkness for so long.
Ernaline, a late arrival in the book, is also Norwegian or Celtic and means capable or serious. I'm hoping we'll see more of this character.
Cook. Cook is such a mysterious figure that it's hard to say anything definite about Cook other than that I love Cook. But if I had to make a guess I'd say Cook's name is derived from all of the cooking Cook does.
Maybe I'm reading too much into this? But it feels like there's definitely something there.
Oh, and Prudence's book selling technique had me absolutely dying of laughter. I know so many booksellers who would love to be able to do that! A gorgeous little touch that made perfect use of her setting, her powers and her personality.
A dark and dangerous gift of a novel!
October 17, 2023
The plot
Delores MacKenzie is a troubled teen. But not in the way you may think. Sure, she has few friends at school, but then, with what she brings, is it any wonder?
You see, Delores has necromantic abilities. Her whole family do. But for Delores, they are not in control. Wherever she goes, she attracts the spirits. She has since birth. When young, she used to have one as a friend, and they played together. But now things are getting out of control. The spirits, the Bòcan as they are called in Scottish Gaelic, are trying to drag her back to their realm.
The book opens dramatically as Delores races across a causeway from Crammed Island to the mainland (Scotland), where she has spent the afternoon. She is late, and the tide is lapping at her feet as she gains pace. Every stride brings the water higher. Things suddenly turn nasty when one Bòcan grabs at her and tries to pull her under the water. It is a struggle Delores wins. Just. Racing to her parent's cottage, Delores makes it through the door and seemingly to safety. However, the Bòcan follows her and tries to batter the door down. With the help of her sister, Delilah, they stave off the attack.
How long the enchanted marking, the troll cross outside the cottage, will last, the girls don't know. And with their parents vanished, gone in the night without explanation or trace, there is little chance Delores or Delilah can replenish the enchantment to make things better.
The only option, Delilah says, is for Delores to go and see the Uncles. These are mysterious teachers who help those with supernatural gifts control their talents, so they stay under the radar of the more earthly authorities. The Uncles are a removed part of The Council, the governing body of this other, twilight world. They have rules and guidelines about the paranormal and its control. Delores, unchecked, would break all those rules. Dire consequences will ensue if she refuses to seek the Uncle's help.
There is little Delores can do. Ultimately she knows, as much as she hates the idea of being controlled by the Uncles or her own otherworldy community, she has to go. Delilah had been, and now it was her turn.
The school, for want of another name, is actually the Tollbooth Bookshop in the darker, older parts of the city of Edinburgh. It is, at face value, a shop like any other. But here, customers buy a book, and it is suggested subliminally that they don't return. They also never get the book they choose.
With only her rucksack of clothes, bits and bobs and a book stolen from her former high school library as company, Delores heads into a very unexpected adventure. An adventure where the undead make it far more deadly.
The teachers, the Uncles as they are called, are older than is natural. They hark back to the gothic vampiresque shapeshifters of the old movies. Delores is untrusting and scared of being sent to a prison for those with uncontrollable dangerous talents like hers. It is worse when a fellow student is, pardon the pun, hell-bent on making her life, well, hell! It leaves Delores struggling to come to terms with what she must do.
When a bòcan starts to plague Delores, starts to break into this world and recover its once mortal form, Delores and everyone in the school are in grave danger.
So, what did we think?
There is so much to enjoy in this story. The action starts on a high and then races to shore, adrenalin pumping. Mellowing for the following few chapters as Delores and we find our feet, we enter a world of characters/situations that would not be out of place in a junior Rivers of London novel.
Yes, at first glance, some may say there are hints of magical schools or reflections of one of many Netflix series. But this is not my overriding feeling. It stands, or maybe I should say floats, on its own merit. I wouldn't have enjoyed it half as much if this had been just another JKRowling-type adventure. It isn't. What it is, is a delightfully dark fantasy/horror/gothic race against otherworldly menaces. Being set in modern times but neatly nestling in the dark menacing corners of old town Edinburgh and a graveyard gives it a palpable chill. It ably brings together everything I liked about the older TV and movie horror shows, without any of the kitch.
So . . . .
Crunch time.
Absolutely do buy this. A highly enjoyable and refreshingly different, horrorsome, must-read fireside or bedtime tale. Age group 11+ is accurate, and it is a great adult read too.
Delores MacKenzie is a troubled teen. But not in the way you may think. Sure, she has few friends at school, but then, with what she brings, is it any wonder?
You see, Delores has necromantic abilities. Her whole family do. But for Delores, they are not in control. Wherever she goes, she attracts the spirits. She has since birth. When young, she used to have one as a friend, and they played together. But now things are getting out of control. The spirits, the Bòcan as they are called in Scottish Gaelic, are trying to drag her back to their realm.
The book opens dramatically as Delores races across a causeway from Crammed Island to the mainland (Scotland), where she has spent the afternoon. She is late, and the tide is lapping at her feet as she gains pace. Every stride brings the water higher. Things suddenly turn nasty when one Bòcan grabs at her and tries to pull her under the water. It is a struggle Delores wins. Just. Racing to her parent's cottage, Delores makes it through the door and seemingly to safety. However, the Bòcan follows her and tries to batter the door down. With the help of her sister, Delilah, they stave off the attack.
How long the enchanted marking, the troll cross outside the cottage, will last, the girls don't know. And with their parents vanished, gone in the night without explanation or trace, there is little chance Delores or Delilah can replenish the enchantment to make things better.
The only option, Delilah says, is for Delores to go and see the Uncles. These are mysterious teachers who help those with supernatural gifts control their talents, so they stay under the radar of the more earthly authorities. The Uncles are a removed part of The Council, the governing body of this other, twilight world. They have rules and guidelines about the paranormal and its control. Delores, unchecked, would break all those rules. Dire consequences will ensue if she refuses to seek the Uncle's help.
There is little Delores can do. Ultimately she knows, as much as she hates the idea of being controlled by the Uncles or her own otherworldy community, she has to go. Delilah had been, and now it was her turn.
The school, for want of another name, is actually the Tollbooth Bookshop in the darker, older parts of the city of Edinburgh. It is, at face value, a shop like any other. But here, customers buy a book, and it is suggested subliminally that they don't return. They also never get the book they choose.
With only her rucksack of clothes, bits and bobs and a book stolen from her former high school library as company, Delores heads into a very unexpected adventure. An adventure where the undead make it far more deadly.
The teachers, the Uncles as they are called, are older than is natural. They hark back to the gothic vampiresque shapeshifters of the old movies. Delores is untrusting and scared of being sent to a prison for those with uncontrollable dangerous talents like hers. It is worse when a fellow student is, pardon the pun, hell-bent on making her life, well, hell! It leaves Delores struggling to come to terms with what she must do.
When a bòcan starts to plague Delores, starts to break into this world and recover its once mortal form, Delores and everyone in the school are in grave danger.
So, what did we think?
There is so much to enjoy in this story. The action starts on a high and then races to shore, adrenalin pumping. Mellowing for the following few chapters as Delores and we find our feet, we enter a world of characters/situations that would not be out of place in a junior Rivers of London novel.
Yes, at first glance, some may say there are hints of magical schools or reflections of one of many Netflix series. But this is not my overriding feeling. It stands, or maybe I should say floats, on its own merit. I wouldn't have enjoyed it half as much if this had been just another JKRowling-type adventure. It isn't. What it is, is a delightfully dark fantasy/horror/gothic race against otherworldly menaces. Being set in modern times but neatly nestling in the dark menacing corners of old town Edinburgh and a graveyard gives it a palpable chill. It ably brings together everything I liked about the older TV and movie horror shows, without any of the kitch.
So . . . .
Crunch time.
Absolutely do buy this. A highly enjoyable and refreshingly different, horrorsome, must-read fireside or bedtime tale. Age group 11+ is accurate, and it is a great adult read too.
April 5, 2023
'The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie' marks the start of what promises to be a terrific new magical fantasy adventure series for middle-grade/YA readers.
14-year-old Delores comes from a family of paranormalists, and her gift of necromancy attracts restless ghosts to her. Now that her parents are missing and her older sister Delilah has been assigned to work in Norway, Delores is sent to a new 'school' in the Tolbooth Bookshop in Edinburgh Old Town where she will be taught by the 'Uncles' to control her gift. However, she must contend not only with the animosity of her fellow pupil Prudence, who is not afraid to use her gifts as an illusionist against Delores, but also with other unexplained phenomena which seem to be connected in some way with the mysterious disappearance of a previous pupil.
This is a delightfully imaginative and creepy story, full of wonderful details such as a chess-playing gargoyle. Yvonne Barham makes the most of the novel's Edinburgh setting, cleverly eliding real locations with a few invented places (I searched high and low for Esme's fudge shop but to no avail!) I particularly enjoyed the use of an ghost tour of the Edinburgh Vaults in the finale. The characters are engaging and sparky; Delores and Prudence's relationship is at the heart of the story and evolves nicely from hostility to grudging cooperation to something approaching friendship. Something I particularly liked was the way that Barham introduced other characters towards the end of the book with the promise of further development in future instalments. The ending of this story was very satisfying whilst leaving plenty of interesting possibilities for sequels, especially with regards to the whereabouts of Delores's parents.
I believe this book will be a big hit with younger secondary pupils - and perhaps some older primary readers too (there is nothing would unsuitable for them but I agree that 11+ is the ideal age for this book.) It would certainly be a logical next step for readers who have enjoyed the Harry Potter books and are looking for something in a similar vein but also refreshing and original. And it's a book that adult readers can enjoy too! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC to review.
14-year-old Delores comes from a family of paranormalists, and her gift of necromancy attracts restless ghosts to her. Now that her parents are missing and her older sister Delilah has been assigned to work in Norway, Delores is sent to a new 'school' in the Tolbooth Bookshop in Edinburgh Old Town where she will be taught by the 'Uncles' to control her gift. However, she must contend not only with the animosity of her fellow pupil Prudence, who is not afraid to use her gifts as an illusionist against Delores, but also with other unexplained phenomena which seem to be connected in some way with the mysterious disappearance of a previous pupil.
This is a delightfully imaginative and creepy story, full of wonderful details such as a chess-playing gargoyle. Yvonne Barham makes the most of the novel's Edinburgh setting, cleverly eliding real locations with a few invented places (I searched high and low for Esme's fudge shop but to no avail!) I particularly enjoyed the use of an ghost tour of the Edinburgh Vaults in the finale. The characters are engaging and sparky; Delores and Prudence's relationship is at the heart of the story and evolves nicely from hostility to grudging cooperation to something approaching friendship. Something I particularly liked was the way that Barham introduced other characters towards the end of the book with the promise of further development in future instalments. The ending of this story was very satisfying whilst leaving plenty of interesting possibilities for sequels, especially with regards to the whereabouts of Delores's parents.
I believe this book will be a big hit with younger secondary pupils - and perhaps some older primary readers too (there is nothing would unsuitable for them but I agree that 11+ is the ideal age for this book.) It would certainly be a logical next step for readers who have enjoyed the Harry Potter books and are looking for something in a similar vein but also refreshing and original. And it's a book that adult readers can enjoy too! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an ARC to review.
February 25, 2024
Delores ha il dono di vedere i Bòcan, non dei semplici fantasmi, ma delle creature che sanno di essere morte e non ne sono felici. Dopo un duro scontro con un Bòcan, la sorella maggiore di Delores decide che è il momento di accompagnarla dagli Zii, in modo da imparare a usare meglio i suoi poteri.
Delores non è felice di questo cambiamento, soprattutto quando nella nuova casa incontra Prudence, un'altra studentessa che ha dei poteri diversi dai suoi e con cui non riesce ad andare daccordo. Con lei infatti iniziano dei piccoli scontri, ma per fortuna lì vi è anche Gabriel, un ragazzo con cui la nostra protagonista invece lega subito.
Delores è una ragazzina che dopo la scomparsa misteriosa dei suoi genitori, ha sempre vissuto da sola con la sorella, perciò questo trasferimento l'ha destabilizzata, sente la mancanza di sua sorella e non riesce neanche a fidarsi completamente degli Zii.
Molte azioni di questa storia si svolgono in una libreria, una delle mie ambientazioni m preferite, dove i tre studenti si devono dividere tra le lezioni e il lavoro nella libreria stessa.
Leggere un libro e respirare anche l'aria di vecchi libri è sempre un punto a favore della storia che sto leggendo.
Se poi aggiungete un dolcissimo gargoyle all'entrata della libreria, le strade di Edimburgo e un negozio di dolciumi, ecco un
fantastico luogo che vorrei visitare davvero.
La storia è riuscita a coinvolgermi sin dall'inizio, grazie a tanti misteri che si mostrano già dalle prime pagine. Delores si ritrova coinvolta con una misteriosa Bòcan che pretende da lei qualcosa, ma la giovane non vuole cedere e proverà in tutti i modi a contrastarla. Imparerà pian piano anche a fidarsi degli altri e a capire che non può risolvere tutto da sola.
È un libro dove si mischiano segreti e magia a un pizzico di gotico, ma che che parla anche di crescita, amicizia e famiglia.
Delores non è felice di questo cambiamento, soprattutto quando nella nuova casa incontra Prudence, un'altra studentessa che ha dei poteri diversi dai suoi e con cui non riesce ad andare daccordo. Con lei infatti iniziano dei piccoli scontri, ma per fortuna lì vi è anche Gabriel, un ragazzo con cui la nostra protagonista invece lega subito.
Delores è una ragazzina che dopo la scomparsa misteriosa dei suoi genitori, ha sempre vissuto da sola con la sorella, perciò questo trasferimento l'ha destabilizzata, sente la mancanza di sua sorella e non riesce neanche a fidarsi completamente degli Zii.
Molte azioni di questa storia si svolgono in una libreria, una delle mie ambientazioni m preferite, dove i tre studenti si devono dividere tra le lezioni e il lavoro nella libreria stessa.
Leggere un libro e respirare anche l'aria di vecchi libri è sempre un punto a favore della storia che sto leggendo.
Se poi aggiungete un dolcissimo gargoyle all'entrata della libreria, le strade di Edimburgo e un negozio di dolciumi, ecco un
fantastico luogo che vorrei visitare davvero.
La storia è riuscita a coinvolgermi sin dall'inizio, grazie a tanti misteri che si mostrano già dalle prime pagine. Delores si ritrova coinvolta con una misteriosa Bòcan che pretende da lei qualcosa, ma la giovane non vuole cedere e proverà in tutti i modi a contrastarla. Imparerà pian piano anche a fidarsi degli altri e a capire che non può risolvere tutto da sola.
È un libro dove si mischiano segreti e magia a un pizzico di gotico, ma che che parla anche di crescita, amicizia e famiglia.
May 4, 2024
Allora, sarebbe più un 5- ma DETTAGLI.
Ho AMATO questo libro. Davvero. Non me lo aspettavo di amarlo così tanto, soprattutto che sarebbe diventato un 5- ma l'ho DIVORATO. Tutte le emozioni che l'autrice ha voluto che provassimo le ho provate: rabbia, tristezza, paura, tutte.
Ammetto che inizialmente ho ODIATO Prudence e Oddvar: odiavo il comportamento e il bullismo che Prudence faceva nei confronti di Delores e che tutti la perdonassero e scusassero. Era ovvio che Prudence aveva qualche trauma e motivo per essere così però non sopportavo che la colpa ricadesse sempre su Delores. Ho apprezzato molto come il rapporto tra Prudence e Delores sia cambiato a piccoli passi e capisco perché erano tutti così protettivi nei suoi confronti, ma non perdonerò mai Oddvar. In alcune scene ero tipo "aww magari un po' ci tiene a Delores" ma subito dopo mi faceva arrabbiare; anche dopo aver finito il libro continuo ad avere un rapporto contrastante con lui.
La storia è davvero avvincente e rapisce il lettore, nonostante non sia una trama completamente innovativa l'autrice la narra perfettamente. Ho amato come hanno sconfitto il nemico finale, anche se fate riposare la povera Delores.
Ammetto che avevo capito che Solas c'entrava con Angel però non mi aspettavo fosse CONTRO di lei invece che CON lei. Avevo intuito anche che Solas e Prudence erano imparentati però è stato comunque una sorpresa quando le mie supposizioni si sono rivelate reali.
Ho AMATO questo libro. Davvero. Non me lo aspettavo di amarlo così tanto, soprattutto che sarebbe diventato un 5- ma l'ho DIVORATO. Tutte le emozioni che l'autrice ha voluto che provassimo le ho provate: rabbia, tristezza, paura, tutte.
Ammetto che inizialmente ho ODIATO Prudence e Oddvar: odiavo il comportamento e il bullismo che Prudence faceva nei confronti di Delores e che tutti la perdonassero e scusassero. Era ovvio che Prudence aveva qualche trauma e motivo per essere così però non sopportavo che la colpa ricadesse sempre su Delores. Ho apprezzato molto come il rapporto tra Prudence e Delores sia cambiato a piccoli passi e capisco perché erano tutti così protettivi nei suoi confronti, ma non perdonerò mai Oddvar. In alcune scene ero tipo "aww magari un po' ci tiene a Delores" ma subito dopo mi faceva arrabbiare; anche dopo aver finito il libro continuo ad avere un rapporto contrastante con lui.
La storia è davvero avvincente e rapisce il lettore, nonostante non sia una trama completamente innovativa l'autrice la narra perfettamente. Ho amato come hanno sconfitto il nemico finale, anche se fate riposare la povera Delores.
Ammetto che avevo capito che Solas c'entrava con Angel però non mi aspettavo fosse CONTRO di lei invece che CON lei. Avevo intuito anche che Solas e Prudence erano imparentati però è stato comunque una sorpresa quando le mie supposizioni si sono rivelate reali.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
I am a huge fan of horror stories and movies but I am not easily scared. I have a tendency to laugh when ghosts appear on screen. But this one has some spine-chilling moments and those moments are one of the many reasons that make this book special.
The story is about Delores who has supernatural powers. She has the ability to attract spirits. She is by no means the only "gifted" one in the family. Supernatural powers just run in her family. Her parents disappear when her elder sister is 17, leaving just a short note behind before they disappear. Her sister brings her up with what is left by their parents. When her power gets out of control, she is sent to see one of the Uncles. The Uncle that she sees, Oddvar, already has other children under his wing when she arrives. She is assigned a room full of dolls that move at night. (This part creeps me out.)
It is a very well-written book. The opening chapter is action packed. The second chapter in which Delores remembers her past reads like scenes from movies. It is just very cinematically written.
The setting in Edinburgh endears it to me even more because of my personal ties to the capital city.
It is a book I would recommend to students who like horror books and are not easily scared.
The story is about Delores who has supernatural powers. She has the ability to attract spirits. She is by no means the only "gifted" one in the family. Supernatural powers just run in her family. Her parents disappear when her elder sister is 17, leaving just a short note behind before they disappear. Her sister brings her up with what is left by their parents. When her power gets out of control, she is sent to see one of the Uncles. The Uncle that she sees, Oddvar, already has other children under his wing when she arrives. She is assigned a room full of dolls that move at night. (This part creeps me out.)
It is a very well-written book. The opening chapter is action packed. The second chapter in which Delores remembers her past reads like scenes from movies. It is just very cinematically written.
The setting in Edinburgh endears it to me even more because of my personal ties to the capital city.
It is a book I would recommend to students who like horror books and are not easily scared.
May 2, 2025
Yvonne Banham’s The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie is a deftly atmospheric debut that blends gothic chills with heartfelt character work. Set in a shadowy Edinburgh bookshop overlooking a graveyard, it follows twelve-year-old Delores, a reluctant necromancer sent to live with two enigmatic uncles and fellow paranormals. As she grapples with her unsettling gift and the threat of a malevolent spirit, the story balances eerie suspense with moments of warmth and humour.
Banham’s prose is crisp and evocative, conjuring a vivid sense of place and an undercurrent of unease. The supporting cast—particularly the prickly Prudence and the endearing Bartleby—add depth and charm. While the plot unfolds with a familiar rhythm, the novel’s strength lies in its richly drawn setting and the emotional resonance of Delores’s journey.
A compelling read for fans of middle-grade fantasy with a darker edge, this tale promises more adventures to come.
Banham’s prose is crisp and evocative, conjuring a vivid sense of place and an undercurrent of unease. The supporting cast—particularly the prickly Prudence and the endearing Bartleby—add depth and charm. While the plot unfolds with a familiar rhythm, the novel’s strength lies in its richly drawn setting and the emotional resonance of Delores’s journey.
A compelling read for fans of middle-grade fantasy with a darker edge, this tale promises more adventures to come.
December 27, 2022
I have to admit when I first started reading this, my heart sank a little. Oh no, not another MG story about an outsider with powers who has to learn to control them while dealing with fellow students/teachers who are against them, I thought. Thankfully this is different enough to be an enjoyable read.
Delores’ gifts of connecting with the dead see her sent away to learn how to control her power.. She finds herself living at a bookshop, with two ‘uncles’ to teach her and two fellow students. There are a number of mysteries surrounding the residents, but the big mystery comes from a dark spirit that needs Delores’ gifts to become stronger. It is nicely creepy, which builds up steadily towards a satisfying ending. I would have liked to have had more insight into the characters though, to get to know them more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
Delores’ gifts of connecting with the dead see her sent away to learn how to control her power.. She finds herself living at a bookshop, with two ‘uncles’ to teach her and two fellow students. There are a number of mysteries surrounding the residents, but the big mystery comes from a dark spirit that needs Delores’ gifts to become stronger. It is nicely creepy, which builds up steadily towards a satisfying ending. I would have liked to have had more insight into the characters though, to get to know them more.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
February 25, 2023
The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie is a tale of identity and one girl’s quest to discover where she fits in. We get to know Delores, her hopes, fears and dreams. The plot is laced with ghostly phenomenon, spooky locations and a whole host of entertaining characters each with their own unique paranormal gift.
This is an incredibly dark story in places with some excellent tension-filled descriptions, which certainly gets your heart pumping. Delores and her companions race to escape Angel Barguest and decipher what exactly is happening. The paranormal elements have been well thought out and utilised throughout the book.
A dynamic adventure, full of twists and turns with plenty of mysteries to solve. Ideal for readers in Years 5 to 8, who enjoy stories about the supernatural and solving puzzles.
This is an incredibly dark story in places with some excellent tension-filled descriptions, which certainly gets your heart pumping. Delores and her companions race to escape Angel Barguest and decipher what exactly is happening. The paranormal elements have been well thought out and utilised throughout the book.
A dynamic adventure, full of twists and turns with plenty of mysteries to solve. Ideal for readers in Years 5 to 8, who enjoy stories about the supernatural and solving puzzles.
April 7, 2023
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.*
This is a vivid, immersive tale of magic and witchcraft. It is a paranormal fantasy middle-grade story that has gothic vibes.
I flew through this book and found that the storyline tied up really nicely with a satisfying ending and enough ambiguity and interesting possibilities for a sequel.
The characters were well-rounded, fun and sparky. I absolutely adored Delores, she was so much fun and her relationship with Prudence throughout the book was so interesting and heartwarming.
The magic-world was very interesting and I loved that this book was set in Edinburgh as I went to University there and spent 4 years in the capital city.
Overall, this is a delightfully imaginative and creepy children’s crime story with excellent tension and mystery.
#DeloresMackenzie #NetGalley
This is a vivid, immersive tale of magic and witchcraft. It is a paranormal fantasy middle-grade story that has gothic vibes.
I flew through this book and found that the storyline tied up really nicely with a satisfying ending and enough ambiguity and interesting possibilities for a sequel.
The characters were well-rounded, fun and sparky. I absolutely adored Delores, she was so much fun and her relationship with Prudence throughout the book was so interesting and heartwarming.
The magic-world was very interesting and I loved that this book was set in Edinburgh as I went to University there and spent 4 years in the capital city.
Overall, this is a delightfully imaginative and creepy children’s crime story with excellent tension and mystery.
#DeloresMackenzie #NetGalley
May 8, 2023
This is a charmingly gothic middle grade tale with paranormal activity, creepy dolls and mystery. After another close call with a ghost, Delores is sent to Edinburgh to live with the Uncles at the Tollbooth bookstore where she meets fellow pupils gifted with paranormal gifts. However, her power to attract dangerous ghosts puts her, and her new friends, in danger as a malevolent spirit seems intent on claiming them.
It was imaginative and creepy and Bartleby the gargoyle was delightful. I do wish the two female characters didn't automatically default to disliking each other and the story would have benefited from being slightly longer to fully explore character motivations and growth.
This would make a great Halloween read for middle grade readers.
It was imaginative and creepy and Bartleby the gargoyle was delightful. I do wish the two female characters didn't automatically default to disliking each other and the story would have benefited from being slightly longer to fully explore character motivations and growth.
This would make a great Halloween read for middle grade readers.
November 6, 2022
This is one of those books that you keep thinking about after you've finished reading it. I keep wanted to go back to find out what Delores is doing now so I've very much hoping that there will be another book in the series. The book was just the right level of creepy. The message in the book that it's ok to ask for help; you won't be rejected or judged, is such an important message for young people to hear. It was also interesting to think about how young people see adults and the judgements they make of them sometimes. I would definitely recommend this book for Year 5 or 6 or above, just because of some of the themes that come up. I am looking forward to the next one (fingers crossed).
February 7, 2023
This book already feels like a timeless classic, with each character instantly feeling like an old friend. As a kid I always latched onto imaginative details and there are so many gorgeous ones in this book…from the grumpy demonic gargoyle doorstop, to the little bowls of bespoke snacks. (PLEASE can I borrow Cook?!)
It’s dark and creepy, but never pushes things to nightmare level, so it’s perfectly pitched to a kid-audience eager for something scary. Plus, the darkness is balanced by sweet characters and relatable pre-teen concerns. The cover is so gorgeous, so I was delighted when the book lived up to it in every way!
It’s dark and creepy, but never pushes things to nightmare level, so it’s perfectly pitched to a kid-audience eager for something scary. Plus, the darkness is balanced by sweet characters and relatable pre-teen concerns. The cover is so gorgeous, so I was delighted when the book lived up to it in every way!
April 5, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! It is such a beautiful book! The way Yvonne writes has such a young charm, full of intelligence. It flowed beautifully and the characters were lovingly fleshed out leaving enough for the imagination. The setting of the book shop and the adventure itself was amazing! I genuinely couldn’t put the book down and I’ve been so excited to read more of it. I really REALLY hope there is a sequel of another adventure or of one of the other characters because I’m so intrigued by their stories.
I was expecting a book on witchcraft given the title and was happily surprised by the theme. It combines all the things I love!
I was expecting a book on witchcraft given the title and was happily surprised by the theme. It combines all the things I love!
April 6, 2023
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review
A short intriguing novel set with the backdrop of Edinburgh’s gothic old town. Delores can see ghosts, who aren’t very friendly, she is a necromancer who is sent to stay with the uncles to learn how to control her powers. When there she meets a range of supernatural characters and there are lots of dark secrets.
I enjoyed the setting of the book and the building mystery. I really loved some of the unique characters. A great book to start older children and young teens into the spooky gothic style books. I’m interested to see if there is a sequel!
A short intriguing novel set with the backdrop of Edinburgh’s gothic old town. Delores can see ghosts, who aren’t very friendly, she is a necromancer who is sent to stay with the uncles to learn how to control her powers. When there she meets a range of supernatural characters and there are lots of dark secrets.
I enjoyed the setting of the book and the building mystery. I really loved some of the unique characters. A great book to start older children and young teens into the spooky gothic style books. I’m interested to see if there is a sequel!
December 27, 2023
I really felt for Dolores, how horrible it must have felt to be sent away from the only family she had left. It was quite mysterious, I don't know who she could trust.
I wanted to know more about the whole system, the uncles, paranormals with different abilities, these homes where the young paranormals can learn more.
It started strong but I didn't really understand why everyone felt they had to hide so much each other, both Dolores not telling the uncles, and the uncles also hiding a lot from her. And what did happen to her parents? It seems like could be a series and I'm hoping more will be explained.
I wanted to know more about the whole system, the uncles, paranormals with different abilities, these homes where the young paranormals can learn more.
It started strong but I didn't really understand why everyone felt they had to hide so much each other, both Dolores not telling the uncles, and the uncles also hiding a lot from her. And what did happen to her parents? It seems like could be a series and I'm hoping more will be explained.
April 16, 2023
Originally posted on Just Geeking by.
Content warnings:
In this stunning debut Yvonne Banham introduces Delores Mackenzie, a fourteen-year-old who has known magic all her life and is quite happy living alone with her sister, thank you very much. So when her sister Delilah informs her that it’s time for Delores to study with the Uncles she’s not interested. Unfortunately her sister has been assigned to Norway, a post she was recommended for after studying with the Uncles and the protections their parents put on their cottage are beginning to fade. Even if Delores could stay there on her own it wouldn’t be safe, and her magic is becoming too unpredictable and attracting dangerous restless spirits called bócans.
Whether Delores likes it or not it’s time for her to go through the same period of study that all paranormals must go through. It’s something she has to do alone, and one week later she’s left alone on the doorstep of Tolbooth Book Store in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Her experiences at Tolbooth are mixed and confusing at first, and Delores struggles with life with her strange new housemates as a ghostly presence makes itself known to her. As she does battle with her awful housemate Prudence, she tries to unravel a mystery with the help of her other housemate Gabriel. All the while attempting to avoid catching the attention of the Uncles whose she’s afraid will notice just how dark and strange her powers truly are.
With The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie, Banham has written a wonderfully spooky tale filled with lots of delicious mysteries that unfold within this cracking world she has created. It more than lives up to the description of “Beetlejuice meets Lockwood & Co with added Tartan Noir” which is what drew me in originally. Banham has seamlessly blended gothic horror and mystery together to create a thrilling story filled with magic, ghosts and friendship. Her characters are so awkwardly real that they made me laugh and cry with familiarity. Delores is such a colourful character and watching her grow during her time at Tolbooth’s was such a pleasure. I have to admit that by the end of the book I had a soft spot for Prudence; I like complicated girls, and she is very well written.
I loved the whole magical teacher/student relationships setting outside a traditional academic setting. A bookshop in Edinburgh’s Old Town is as unique as everything else in this book, and it’s the perfect backdrop for an independent teenager with the power to talk to the dead. The lack of a traditional school setting also lets Banham explore the daily lives of her characters in a way reminiscent of fantasy novels. The lines blur between reality and fantasy a lot in The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie, adding to the atmosphere and drama.
My only complaint about this book is that there isn’t a lot of representation in this book. It was good to see some disability representation though, in the form of Gabriel whose eyesight is fading as his power as a seer grows.
If you’re looking for a book with a great story, delicious world-building and a dark academia setting suitable for younger readers then The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie is for you!
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Content warnings:
In this stunning debut Yvonne Banham introduces Delores Mackenzie, a fourteen-year-old who has known magic all her life and is quite happy living alone with her sister, thank you very much. So when her sister Delilah informs her that it’s time for Delores to study with the Uncles she’s not interested. Unfortunately her sister has been assigned to Norway, a post she was recommended for after studying with the Uncles and the protections their parents put on their cottage are beginning to fade. Even if Delores could stay there on her own it wouldn’t be safe, and her magic is becoming too unpredictable and attracting dangerous restless spirits called bócans.
Whether Delores likes it or not it’s time for her to go through the same period of study that all paranormals must go through. It’s something she has to do alone, and one week later she’s left alone on the doorstep of Tolbooth Book Store in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Her experiences at Tolbooth are mixed and confusing at first, and Delores struggles with life with her strange new housemates as a ghostly presence makes itself known to her. As she does battle with her awful housemate Prudence, she tries to unravel a mystery with the help of her other housemate Gabriel. All the while attempting to avoid catching the attention of the Uncles whose she’s afraid will notice just how dark and strange her powers truly are.
With The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie, Banham has written a wonderfully spooky tale filled with lots of delicious mysteries that unfold within this cracking world she has created. It more than lives up to the description of “Beetlejuice meets Lockwood & Co with added Tartan Noir” which is what drew me in originally. Banham has seamlessly blended gothic horror and mystery together to create a thrilling story filled with magic, ghosts and friendship. Her characters are so awkwardly real that they made me laugh and cry with familiarity. Delores is such a colourful character and watching her grow during her time at Tolbooth’s was such a pleasure. I have to admit that by the end of the book I had a soft spot for Prudence; I like complicated girls, and she is very well written.
I loved the whole magical teacher/student relationships setting outside a traditional academic setting. A bookshop in Edinburgh’s Old Town is as unique as everything else in this book, and it’s the perfect backdrop for an independent teenager with the power to talk to the dead. The lack of a traditional school setting also lets Banham explore the daily lives of her characters in a way reminiscent of fantasy novels. The lines blur between reality and fantasy a lot in The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie, adding to the atmosphere and drama.
My only complaint about this book is that there isn’t a lot of representation in this book. It was good to see some disability representation though, in the form of Gabriel whose eyesight is fading as his power as a seer grows.
If you’re looking for a book with a great story, delicious world-building and a dark academia setting suitable for younger readers then The Dark and Dangerous Gifts of Delores Mackenzie is for you!
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October 12, 2025
I didn't expect to enjoy the book so much, I binge read it only in two days!
The book fit the spooky theme of October very much. Paranormals, evil spirit, ghosts? All in one package, I must say, and it's delicious.
The mysteries that surrounding the characters are neat and I gasped the loudest at the near end because of it haha. The pace of the story is fast yet the important details are still there. Despite their differences, the characters are all lovable to me and it's a shocking. Even the antagonist is quite the charming haha!
Can't wait to read the second book!
The book fit the spooky theme of October very much. Paranormals, evil spirit, ghosts? All in one package, I must say, and it's delicious.
The mysteries that surrounding the characters are neat and I gasped the loudest at the near end because of it haha. The pace of the story is fast yet the important details are still there. Despite their differences, the characters are all lovable to me and it's a shocking. Even the antagonist is quite the charming haha!
Can't wait to read the second book!
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