Aveline Jones is back for a second spooky adventure in this spine-tingling and spooky middle-grade story.

Aveline is excited when she discovers that there is an ancient stone circle in the small village of Norton Wick adjacent to the holiday cottage her mum has rented for a couple of weeks. Aveline cannot wait to learn more about the Witch Stones. When she befriends Hazel, she soon falls under the spell of the mysterious, unpredictable and eccentric local girl. Hazel is unlike anyone Aveline has ever met, and she is knowledgeable about local history, superstitions and witchcraft. Aveline will have to trust her instincts to navigate this friendship, which doesn’t seem quite right from the start. Can she discover the truth about Hazel before it is too late?

This is a thrilling read for young readers, and perfect for fans of darker stories. Aveline is a resourceful heroine who would have been a firm book bestie for me back in middle school. I highly recommend this series, though perhaps not to the faint-hearted…

Thanks to NetGalley and Usborne for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Witchcraft, druids, and a stone circle mean Aveline's holiday in a quiet little village is far from dull. When Aveline meets Hazel, she thinks she has found a new friend for the holidays, but it soon becomes clear Hazel wants much more than that. I felt this was a well constructed and, in places, genuinely creepy story involving a long past witch trial and execution. The issues raised around loneliness, anger and the need for friendship were nicely done and I really like the characters, particularly Aveline. This is a great series, perfect for autumn evenings.

After reading the first book in this series, I knew I would be reading the rest of it as soon as I could and when I saw the ARC appear on NetGalley I was delighted and for good reason, this author delivers every time and I fell into this book as much as I fell into the first.

Aveline is a wonderful character with the curiousity and intelligence of a kid and reminds me of when I was a child and used to look for ghosts in the woods with a friend (yeah, I hope I was not the only one who did that, right? Shout out to Joe for sticking with me) and I am glad, I never found the things Aveline does but I am so glad I get to read her adventures which leave me on the edge of my seat (even if I am an adult, idc).

The plot is exciting and gets you hooked, Hazel is an incredibly scary nemesis for Aveline and the dark and gothic tones are that flow through this book are perfectly done as the stakes get higher for the characters. The pace feels a little quicker in this one, but that is not a bad thing as this book pulls you in and makes it impossible for you to put down.

I just can't wait for the next installment of this series, it's probably my new favourite series and I need to get my hands on them as soon as I can! Pacey, dark and picturesque, this book is brilliant and no matter your age, I'd recommend it to you. Read this series!

(I received an ARC from Netgalley for honest review).

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
Age recommendation: 9-12

Prepare to be bewitched! Aveline Jones is back...

Aveline is excited when she learns that the holiday cottage her mum has rented is right by an ancient stone circle known as the Witch Stones. She can't wait to explore and show the stones to her friend, Harold who'll be staying with them for a few days.

The holidays seem to be getting even better when Aveline meets Hazel, a mysterious girl with a magnetic personality, who puts Aveline under her spell. As much as Aveline is drawn towards Hazel, there is something about her that makes her feel uneasy. Something that she can't put her finger on... And then there's the village vicar with her curious practices. Will Aveline discover the mystery of the Witch Stones before she gets ensnared by their magic?

Phil Hickes has done it again! I was spellbound from the very first page! As soon as I started reading, I just couldn't put the book down. The cover and illustrations by Keith Robinson are just magical and so atmospheric. They complete the book beautifully.

I found the character of Aveline not as developed as in the first part and I missed Harold. But that's just me being very pernickety as I liked this book even more than the first one (and I liked that one a lot!) and the worst thing is that I'll have to wait so long now until book three is out...

'The Bewitching of Aveline Jones' publishes in September.
Thank you to @netgalley and @usborne_books for the ARC of the book.

I couldn't wait to read this book after starting the first one with a class of 11 year olds. I couldn't wait to see what would happen to Aveline and Harold next. I loved the setting of the story and how Aveline uses books to find out more about it. I think this shows children how books can be fun and useful. The story itself was definitely the right amount of scary for the age it is reccommended for. I'm sure Aveline will continue to have more adventures.

A last minute surprise holiday in a somewhat rundown holiday cottage not too far from her home city of Bristol brings the surprise of the “Witch Stones” for Aveline to investigate. In the cottage garden she discovers a bottle buried near the gate, and intrigued by the discovery, asks her friend Harold to find some books in his great uncle’s book shop that will tell her more about it, and the thirteen standing stones that are at the end of the garden.
She is quickly drawn into an uneasy friendship with the eccentric Hazel, who seems to be able to come and go as she pleases, and does not like Harold when he arrives, with his great uncle and Aveline’s aunt, to spend some time with them at the cottage. Hazel insists that the stones are magic and seems to know an awful lot about their history, as does the equally eccentric and mysterious local vicar, Alice – another focus of her new friend’s dislike. When Hazel persuades Aveline to give something to the stones in return for new clothes despite her misgivings, the exchange bears fruit, and Aveline becomes more convinced that there is something decidedly strange about her new friend.
This supernatural mystery puts sympathy for others and loyalty to the test, and celebrates the bonds of family and friendship, as well as presenting a lesson in following your instincts when in doubt! This is an entertaining novel and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Phil Hickes first introduced readers to Aveline Jones - lover of ghosts, ghouls and all things supernatural - in September 2020. After what has seemed like an impossibly long wait for a sequel, Aveline is back in another irresistibly creepy middle-grade adventure that will put the frighteners on the bravest of souls.

Whilst not her perfect summer holiday, Aveline is excited to be spending a few days in the small village of Norton Wick as she will be able to explore an ancient stone circle that she has read about in a book.

The Witch Stones are the stuff of legend in the sleepy countryside village and Aveline is thrilled to meet the uber-cool, care-free, wildly unpredictable and mysterious Hazel who has all all sorts of secrets and stories about them. But Hazel has her own dangerous secret and Aveline needs to find out what it is before it is too late…

This is a proper spine-tingling, goose-bump inducing read for readers aged nine and up. Those who want a read that takes them out of their comfort zone, will have them watching over their shoulder and sleeping with the light on won’t want to miss this one (for those that scare easily it is one that is probably best to avoid).

Phil Hickes had me bewitched from the first page, so much so that I was unable to put it down and I read it in one rather nerve-shredding afternoon. I was partly desperate to discover what would happen next but also keen to escape the eerie village of Norton Wick and be able to get a good night’s sleep without thoughts of witchcraft, Witch Stones and witch bottles inhabiting my dreams. Held in an uneasy suspense for all two-hundred-and-fifty-six pages, it is safe to say I was completely gripped by this tension-filled and atmospheric read.

Sinister goings-on, a dangerous friendship and learning to trust your instincts are just some of the things waiting in store for Aveline in the village of Norton Wick where things are definitely not as they seem. You’ll need your protective charms at the ready as Aveline’s fascination for all things supernatural takes a rather dark and sinister turn as she finds herself engaging with the world of witchcraft in a village steeped in historical folklore and superstition. Add in tales from the past, unsettling encounters, dangerous magic, secret messages and witchcraft and even the bravest of readers will be left with racing hearts and cold chills.

Creepy and thrilling from beginning to end, Hickes will have many a reader under his spell as his compelling and bewitching story unfolds. You can never shake the feeling that everything is not quite as it should be and, just like Aveline, I had the over-whelming feeling that I was being watched - never a good thing. Adding to the mood and not doing anything to warm the chills down the spine are sinister quotes at the beginning of each chapter and haunting illustrations by Keith Robinson.

Middle-grade horror writing at its very best, just be sure not to fall under Hazel’s spell. Not for the faint-hearted.

Recommended for 9+.

With thanks to Phil Hickes and Usborne for the advanced reader copy that was received through NetGalley.

I read the previous book and thought it had a good twist. The Bewitching of Aveline Jones was a really good sequel, sometimes sequels tend to lose the quality but this was good! Aveline goes on holiday and experiences a supernatural stone circle. Who is watching her? Lots of intrigue at a rip-roaring pace.

I love, love, loved this book! It reminded me of the kind of book that had me hunkering under my sheets as a kid reading with a torch and completely freaking myself out. Hickes just dives straight into this stream-lined fantasy about standing stones and witches without any deviation to detract from the excitement of the story. The adults are largely absent, there aren't big subplots, it's all about the mystery of the creepy girl who turns up at the holiday let and whether Aveline Jones can get to the bottom of her story. Fans of the first book (I have many in my school library) will be clamouring to read it and I am very excited about the possibility of more Aveline adventures- it's shaping up to be a popular, fun and exciting series.

I enjoyed this story very much, I found it very exciting and couldn't put it down. I love stories about witches and magic, the story had a great flow and kept me hooked.

A perfect spooky classroom read for Years 5 and 6! I read The Haunting of Aveline Jones last summer and really enjoyed it, but i found it a little too scary - you would have to be careful about which classes you read it with, and really only Year 6 or above. This one was a little more down to earth, if a story with witches and standing stones can be called that! I loved all the nods to old British superstitions about standing stones and witchcraft, particularly the witch bottle (which reminded me of one on show at the Spellbound exhibition at the Ashmolean in Oxford a few years ago).

Aveline is on a summer holiday when she meets a mysterious girl called Hazel Browne, who seems to live an amazing life - but there's more to her than meets the eye. A classic spooky story with a modern twist, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this to anyone 10+ who enjoys tales of ghosts and witches.

I loved the first Aveline Jones book, so jumped at the chance to read book two a little early, and I was not disappointed in the slightest! Following on from the first book, Phil Hickes easily drops you into the creepy tale, painting the perfect picture of a tiny rural village and it's spooky ancient stone circle. After the first 50% of the book, I found myself, as a grown adult, turning on the light because it was sending literal shivers down my spine.

I thought it would be impossible to top the previous books location. Malmouth was the perfect level of dark and gloomy for a spooky read. Norton Wick however, truly manages to hold its own. From the mysterious stone circle that seems to have some connection to witches, to the seemingly barking mad vicar who wears long colourful socks and a bowler hat, you just know there is something strange afoot from the word go. It truly proved that a summer setting can be just as scary as Halloween.

It was wonderful that Harold was able to join Aveline again to solve this new supernatural mystery. They make the perfect pairing, both curious, open to believing the unbelievable, and Harold of course brings a mountain of books to the party. I also loved Hazel's character. As an adult, I think you quickly pick up on who she is and what's actually going on. But reading at the intended age, it would no doubt make your jaw drop as all is slowly revealed!

I can't write a review without mentioning the gorgeous illustrations throughout. Keith Robinson does the perfect job of helping drop you in the story, the beady eyed magpie for example, keeping a close eye on you at the turn of every chapter. The covers of both books have also been absolute perfection, and I love the blue colour thats been used for the sequel.

Another wonderful trip with Aveline, and I was thrilled to get to the end and find out there is indeed going to be a third book. I'll now go back to eagerly waiting for the next instalment. Highly recommend both these books to anyone who enjoys a little bit of spook in their stories, they are the perfect October reads!

After finishing The Haunting of Aveline Jones, I was particularly pleased to hear there would be a sequel, so when it arrived on NetGalley, I had to read it.

It’s the last remaining weeks of the summer holidays. Aveline and her mother are utilising the time to take a little break away from the hustle and bustle of city life in the village of Norton Wick.

Very quickly, Aveline is drawn by the villages very own standing stones, which just happen to be located at the back of their holiday home. Upon exploring the area, Aveline bumps into a strange and peculiar girl called Hazel.

Hazel seems instantly drawn to Aveline, and they hit it off immediately, especially after discovering one another’s enjoyment of the supernatural. Despite this, some of Hazel’s behaviours make Aveline increasingly wary and this is a continuing theme throughout the book.

Phil Hicke’s does a tremendous job of building tension throughout the chapters. As an author, he has a brilliant way of leading you to be convinced on where the story is heading, yet he still weaves a cloud of doubt in the back of your mind.

When reading this book, there were certain points where I thought, “I have to share this with a class, they’d love this.” I think it would make a terrific read aloud, but with all books, read it yourself first.

Aveline Jones is most definitely back. It’s felt like forever since the phenomenal first book (The Haunting of Aveline Jones) and this sequel is just as good, if not better, than it’s predecessor. Turning to witchcraft this time, The Bewitching of Aveline Jones will most certainly enchant you – I couldn’t put it down and read it this morning. It is a spell-binding, creepy but fun story with genuine scares but yet stays suitable for children. Phil’s books are such a masterclass in writing suspense and judging by the synopsis I’m not spoiling anything in saying the eerie way that Hazel is written is fantastic (I knew breaking that glass bottle would lead to problems!). It reminded me of Michelle Harrison’s A Tangle of Spells. At times, you can empathise with her but then… I shouldn’t say any more! That sleepover made me very nervous for Aveline!!

It’s great as well seeing Harold and other familiar characters from book 1 return as I loved Aveline and Harold’s friendship. What’s so great about this book is the strong, formidable female characters and it’s clear that this book will appeal to both boys and girls. You could even read it without reading the first.

Keith Robinson’s illustrations most again are fantastic – I especially love the book cover and also the creepy illustrations and quotes accompanying each chapter. It definitely led to more tension. For a nerve-jangling, twist-filled, magical adventure then look no further than The Bewitching of Aveline Jones. I’ll definitely need a copy for my classroom! Having read the tease for book 3 at the end of this book, I am so excited for The Vanishing of Aveline Jones…

*Full review on my blog*

The first Aveline Jones book snuck up on me last year - I wasn't expecting to love it nearly as much as I did, but to find a properly spooky middle grade book was a pleasant surprise. When The Bewitching of Aveline Jones was announced, I knew it could go one of two ways - it would be as good as the first (a lofty goal!) or it would disappoint me. Luckily, after being approved to read this on NetGalley, I am pleased to say it was in fact the former.

Aveline has a habit of visiting places with somewhat spooky histories, and this sequel gets right into it. Witches, curses, you name it, Aveline finds herself mixed up in it. Though not quite as jumpy as the first book - the fear factor was more of the macabre and the feeling of being watched constantly - Phil Hickes has pulled out of the bag another absolute hit. I devoured this book in an evening, effectively breaking the reading slump I had previously found myself in.

Full of twists and turns and the appearance of some favourite familiar characters, The Bewitching of Aveline Jones is a triumph of a sequel, one I personally can't wait to read again on an Autumn evening - though maybe with the lights fully on!

I absolutely loved the first Aveline Jones story and devoured it in one super spooky sitting. As soon as I’d finished it, I looked up when the next one was due out and was delighted to see that it was available on Netgalley. I was thrilled when I was approved for it and started it immediately. I read a lot of kid’s fiction and enjoy a lot of it immensely but very few immerse me as much as these books have. I swear I have read them through the eyes of a ten year old rather than as a 43 year old teacher!

The 2nd Aveline story did not disappoint! So privileged to have been able to read it pre-publication. It completely immersed me as much as #1! The physical book has been pre-ordered for my class and I’ll be keeping an eye on when #3 is due out…

Phil Hickes does it again and thoroughly creeps me out with another spooky Aveline Jones novel. Honestly, I don’t do well with scary stuff, so I don’t know why I keep doing this to myself, but I cannot resist! Such a wonderfully told story, I couldn’t put it down.

After reading The Haunting of Aveline Jones last year, I couldn't wait to read this sequel. Phil Hickes has done it again and written a fantastic spine-tingling story that will keep you hooked until the end.

Aveline and her mum are staying at an old, creaky holiday cottage in the countryside, where there just so happens to be an ancient stone circle right at the bottom of their garden. The villagers of Norton Wick have many theories about the stones and how they got there, but it is the name that draws Aveline in - The Witch Stones - and it is not long before creeping shadows, cackling birds and a strange sealed bottle add to the mystery. Then, Aveline meets a mysterious girl called Hazel Browne (with an e), who seems to know a lot about the stones and the history of Norton Wick. They soon become friends but Aveline can't shake the feeling that something isn't quite right about Hazel. With the help of Harold and his books, can she work out what it is before it is too late?

This eerie and chilling tale is sure to be another hit and it is great to read the teaser for the next instalment, 'The Vanishing of Aveline Jones' - I can't wait!

After devouring the first of this series, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the sequel and wow, it did not disappoint! Another delightfully eerie, spooky story by Phil Hickes as we follow more adventures of Aveline Jones. Everything about this read kept me on edge and wanting more - I can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy and for book number 3!

Thank you so much to Usborne publishing and netgalley for the earc to read and review.

Since finishing the first book I desperately awaited the second one, I knew it would be another fun haunting story with Aveline. I was so pleasantly excited reading this book it did not disappoint at all, it was so eerie and mysterious and I loved it so much.

Oh my gosh this story is so good and eerie, I love a good witch story and this focus on the lure, the magic, the druids, the witch stones and what a witch is truly capable of doing. I admit it wasn’t as tense or scary or creepy as the first book was for me anyway, however this book will still have you in suspense awaiting what is going to happen next, it will have you intrigued with what is really going on and wanting to protect Aveline.

This book is written so incredibly well, it provides a wonderful eerie vision in your mind the whole time you are reading and you are instantly transported to this story, learning new things about witches as you go along and the heebie jeebies will still follow you throughout this book.

We cannot forget the illustrations by Keith Robinson they are amazing and umm eerie, seeing the art work for each new chapter of the stones and the magpie was just wonderful and adds extra creepy to what you are reading, I loved it.

I am so happy that I read this book, it’s an amazing sequel and I loved following Aveline along on another creepy vacation. I highly recommend this book and the first one if you are looking for an easy, yet uneasy creepy book series to read for yourself or 10+ year old in your life then seriously this book series needs to be in your life.

I am also so super excited that there is a third book advertised in the back of this book, I am now awaiting for it to be available as I already know I need it and will love it.