The Haunting of Aveline Jones

Its half term (and halloween) when Aveline arrives in the seaside town of Malmouth to stay with her Aunt. A visit to the local bookshop leads Aveline to discover some haunting local folklore that is tied up with the disapperance of a young girl called Primrose Penberthy. As Aveline begins to investigate the mysterious disapperance of Primrose she is drawn into a dark and haunting tale, and as the stormy weather stirs so does a restless spirit from the depths of the sea....
Just the right amount of horror and suspense for ages 9+ I loved the authors descriptions of the sea and the weather as the suspense built...this would be the perfect read for a wet and dreary afternoon when the wind rattles the windows and the sea mist rolls in..,.just make sure you put a scarecrow outside your house first!

Wow - I loved this. It reminded me of ghost stories I used to read when I was in primary school, devouring all of the books that were meant for people older than me.

A really well developed plot, characters and setting that feels incredibly realistic. It's genuinely spooked me and I'll be thinking about it for a long time. Wonderful!

Aveline Jones loves stories of ghouls and ghosts; fascinated by the idea of the dead returning to life. Ghosts are everywhere, so Aveline always keeps an eye out, just in case, her morbid fascination bordering on obsession. But her Summer is stretching out in front of her, dreary and uneventful, as she is taken to stay with her cold and strict Aunt Lilian in the less-than-exciting town of Malmouth. Though in the Summer this seaside town may be filled with the buzz of tourists and beachgoers, in October all Aveline is greeted by are empty, desolate streets and the menacing child-like scarecrows put out by locals in time for Halloween. There are odd goings-on all around her, scratching on windows, footsteps on floorboards, and shadows everywhere. All the right ingredients for a haunting.

As Aveline explores the local town, she visits an eccentric bookshop and purchases a second hand book of ghost stories from local folklore, but the very last story has been scratched out, removed from existence by the previous owner. Why would anyone want to do such a thing? Frustrated, Aveline sets out to find out what happened to the story, and indeed the previous owner, and is led down a sinister path of malevolent long-forgotten spirits. The closer she gets to finding out the truth, the closer she comes to danger herself. A storm is coming, and when Aveline finds herself face to face with the past, will she escape from the clutches of Malmouth’s most tormented and vengeful spirit?

Hickes has hit the perfect note for a chilling ghost story for middle grade readers. There is a sense of foreboding from the moment Aveline arrives in Malmouth, and the reader is swept up in uncovering the truth about the eerie happenings there. Hickes creates the perfect blend of tension, suspense and atmosphere with storms, crackling fires, unexplained shadows and a rich, supernatural plot. There are themes of loss, lonliness, and injustice. I devoured this in one sitting—there were chilling moments when I felt a shiver down my spine, and a truly heart-pounding climax. The stories of local spirits feel so real I could picture them perfectly, and I felt that a protagonist who isn’t afraid of them played a part in comforting the reader. As Autumn approaches, this is a story that 9+ horror fans will relish, just in time for Halloween! Perfect for fans of Crater Lake or Goosebumps. Both adults and children will be staying up late to finish this one under the duvet with a torch! Deliciously terrifying.

If there was ever a recipe for the perfect middle-grade scary story, then The Haunting of Aveline Jones has followed it to a tee. Take one eerie and miserable seaside town, a girl with a penchant for ghost stories, and a generous helping of things that go bump in the night, and you have all the ingredients you need to conjure up a tale that will have you well and truly spooked.
Aveline finds herself being left to spend her October half term with her Aunt Lilian in dreary Malmouth, a desolate and grim seaside town ravaged by stormy weather. From the minute Aveline arrives, she is perturbed by the presence of ghoulish scarecrows adorning the houses, and the unmistakeably creepy sounds she hears at night. Upon discovering the local bookshop and its eccentric but loveable owner, Aveline buys a book of local ghost stories, but is intrigued to find that the last story has been scratched out by the previous reader. Armed with a sense of determination and her inquisitive mind, Aveline embarks on a mission to uncover the missing story, but soon realises that something or someone already has its sights set on her…
What the author has created here is a fast-paced and chilling story, which will serve as the perfect introduction to horror as a genre for younger readers. Every sight, sound and smell feels so real, from the waves crashing against the harbour wall, to the wonderfully comforting treasure trove that is the bookshop. The suspense builds as Aveline delves deeper into the history of Malmouth and its urban legends and culminates in an epic and heart-stopping moment when the story comes to an almighty and terrifying climax. However, this is more than just a spine-tingling ghost story. This is a story about family, friendship, loss and adventure, with a tale that is laced with sadness weaving its way throughout. I consumed this book in one sitting and by the time I finished reading, I was left feeling satisfyingly thrilled, yet hungry for Aveline’s next adventure.

Aveline Jones loves to read ghost stories, while others her age like stories with unicorns or horses. Knowing she is different in this way, she is unstoppable in her quest to find spooky tales.
Being forced to spend October half term with her Aunt Lilian in Malmouth, Aveline is sure to be bored. Her Mum has to travel to Scotland to visit Granny who has been ill. Driving into the town, they are surprised and spooked to see child like figures standing outside of homes. They are creepy and almost life like from afar.
Within the first day, Aveline has spotted a bookstore and meets the owner Ernst, and his great nephew, Harold. Finding ghost story treasure within the shelves at the back, Aveline takes home her new purchase and sets to reading. To her dismay, she finds the very last short story in the book completely and purposefully crossed out.

Disappointed and feeling as though there is a mystery here, Aveline heads back to the shop. The more she explores the town, the more creepy child like figures keep appearing. Believing it to be some weird Halloween tradition for the town, she hurries past them.

When searching for more clues within the bookstore, they discover a young girls diary...Primrose Penberthy. This young girl went missing some 30 years ago on Halloween and the mystery was never solved.

This story had me on the edge of my seat as ghostly sightings, creepy child like figures and Halloween approaching all converged to create this super story. Aveline is the unsuspecting detective and heroine of this story, putting the pieces together and figuring it all out. New friendships are forged and a new fondness for Aunt Lilian is a positive to come out of this spooky and haunting tale.

I read this story in one day and loved it entirely. Feeling spooked, haunted and proud of Aveline all the way through to the end! Whether you read it on a sunny bright day or a rainy grey day, I am sure you will enjoy it!
10 stars for me and the promise of more to come from Aveline Jones!

When you read a ghost story in broad daylight on a summer afternoon and you find the hairs standing up on the back of your neck, you know that it’s going to be a spooky read. And this is a very spooky read, one which I requested from Net Galley after having my curiosity sparked by all the discussion about it on Twitter at the end of last week.

In an unusually cold October – one so cold that it has closed schools early ahead of the half term holiday – Aveline arrives in the dark and gloomy coastal town of Malmouth. It is here that she is to spend the break with her Aunt Lilian so that her mum can visit Aveline’s sick grandmother. As mum drives into the town with the purpose of dropping her off, they are shocked to see a strange-looking boy leaning against a wall who on closer inspection turns out to be the first of many scarecrows that are dotted around the village.

The following morning, after her mother has left, Aveline explores her surroundings visiting the local second-hand bookshop run by the eccentric Mr Lieberman. With a little help from the old man’s nephew Harold, she finds an old volume of local ghost stories which she decides to buy. Meeting her aunt afterwards at a coffee shop, she is puzzled by her aunt’s decision to leave immediately, having barely touched her cake after reading the name written inside the front cover.

As she starts to read the book, Aveline flicks through and is angered at finding that all of the last story has been crossed through. Together with Harold and Mr Lieberman, Aveline works to unravel the mystery of the book’s original owner – a girl who mysteriously disappeared some thirty-odd years ago – to prevent history repeating itself.

I loved ghosts, vampires and all things undead and scary as a child but they seemed to have fallen out of fashion when my own children were the age at which this is aimed. Fortunately, for those for whom ‘fluffy’ books full of glittery unicorns are of no interest, reads like this are becoming a more commonly available treat. Many children do love being scared and this book delivers frights in spades full from very early on in the story. Through devices such as footsteps coming from the unoccupied room above and a child’s handprint inexplicably appearing on a window, the tension steadily ramps up until the end where the ghostly carryings on reach their heart-pounding climax.

With perfect timing, this book is due to be published on September 17th, when the nights will be drawing in and Hallowe’en will be within sight. That extra layer of creepiness that comes with being able to read this in reduced lighting with appropriate weather to add sound effects will be in place, making this a wonderful autumn read. I have no doubt that many of my current class would enjoy the chance to be scared silly by this as would the Year 6s. 5 out of 5 stars.

Huge thanks, as always, to Net Galley and to Usborne for allowing me to read this ahead of publication.

Aveline has to spend her holidays with her uptight aunt who lives in Malmouth, a desolate coastal town, where life seizes up once the summer tourists leave - a dull and dreary vacation seems inevitable. But then Aveline stumbles across an old book about local ghosts and legends, and learns that in Malmouth, not everything might be well...

I was always was that odd kid who loved everything scary, who enjoyed getting spooked out of my mind. Therefore, I could totally identify my middle-grade self with Aveline and would have adored this book, had I had the chance to read it back then. In fact, I still adored it now and enjoyed myself so much.
The Haunting of Aveline Jones is just perfectly spooky and yet so cozy - a bleak little English town by the sea, raging autmn storms, ghostly legends, an old second-hand bookshop, homely cottages, and warm fireplaces.
A perfect read for cold autumn nights!

Thanks to Usborn Publishing and NetGalley for the eBook!

***eProof given by UK publisher, Usborne, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review/reaction***

Have you ever started reading a book and you instantly go "Oh boy, this is going to be good!"? Well, it's very rare for me to get that strong a reaction within the first few pages of reading this middle-grade ghost story, but I got it and I was right. This is a fast-paced (yet slow burning), creepy and addictive read! I devoured this and this is going to be perfect for Halloween!

I can imagine this so clearly being adapted into a film/TV series, very much in the the style of The Nightmare Before Christmas or, more likely, Coraline. I mean, the Lady in the Waves is SO the Other Mother!

[insert gif of the Other Mother from the movie "Coraline", saying the words "You Know I Love You" here]

I can't think of any real faults with this book - the characters were fleshed out, the atmosphere and tone was just unsettling enough and the pacing built from unsettled to chilling. It just hit the right notes for a middle grade ghost story, and I want MORE! Thank goodness this is the first in a series!

Readers who read and loved Crater Lake, City of Ghosts & the Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine will read this late at night as a storm is raging outside. I can't wait to read the second book in the series, The Bewitching of Aveline Jones, as soon as I can get my hands on it!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Usborne Publishing for the e-arc copy to read and review.

This was exceptional, it was eerie from the very start, it had you gripping things, clenching your fists with fear and anticipation. The story was creepy and enthralling each page made you enticed and desperate to know how the story was going to unfold.

From the second we meet Aveline we are met with an interesting child who loves ghosts and all things haunting, then as they drive into her aunts creepy beach side town we see a child like creepy scarecrow, in which starts us off on the mystery we get to unfold whilst reading.

As the story progresses and Aveline finds out more, witnesses more it gets creepier and creepier which was probably one of my favourite parts of the story as the tension within yourself whilst building gets higher and higher and draws you into the story so much more.

I have literally zero faults with this book, it’s rare for me personally to find a horror book that I see as perfection, but this here Book is literally perfection. The characters are all so fascinating and realistically written, the story itself is enticing, paced appropriately and has the right amount of eerie, creepy, mystery. The author has crafted together this wonderfully exceptional horror book that will suit any age.

I am excited and desperately awaiting the sequel that was advertised at the back of the book I know it’s going to be just as exquisitely written as this one was.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a fast paced, spooky read which kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I couldn't put it down!

It will delight fans of ghost stories, thanks to it's fantastic, eerie setting and chilling conclusion. I will definitely be thinking about this atmospheric story next time I'm near the sea during a storm... If you like to be scared, it would be a great story to read on holiday, while staying in an unfamiliar place!

It is also full of great characters and some lovely, if unusual, friendships. The adults were as well developed as the children, which it was great to see too.

Robinson's spooky illustrations add to the unsettling atmosphere.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a brilliant, quick spooky read that opens what is sure to be a fantastic series. I will definitely be ordering the next one.

3.75 stars

"The Haunting of Aveline Jones" is an atmospheric Middle-Grade novel. I really liked the premise of the story and how the suspense was built up. The whole novel felt a little rushed and could have profited from 50 more pages. Still, I really enjoyed the plot and the characters.

Want a scary book that is not so far fetched it could actually be "true"? This is your book!

Aveline has to spend the Autumn Half Term holiday with her aunt who she doesn't know that well, in her seaside town in Cornwall. Seaside towns in winter can be rather dreary and desolate places where it feels like it just rains all the time, and Malmouth is rather like that.

With a spooky feel to the story as soon as it starts, Aveline gets swept up in a mystery that she is determined to solve despite her love of ghost stories actually making her quite scared.

I really enjoyed the fast paced and very realistic writing style. It was a real page turner with just the right amount of spookiness for those starting out on their love of ghost stories.

As someone who does believe in ghosts, I could definitely believe in this story! A fantastic debut with some great discussion questions at the end.

I 100% love this book. Atmospheric, incredibly creepy and skilfully written. The inclusion of a labyrinthine bookshop is always a winner too. Really looking forward to selling this in the autumn.

I have literally just finished this, I started it yesterday and have binged read it on and off all day today, gripping!

Aveline is forced to spend half term visiting her strict and formal Aunt Lilian in the little coastal town of Malmouth, days of boredom await her and she uses her love of ghost stories to pass the time finding a very old one full of tales, in a second hand bookshop where she meets shy and messy haired Harold and his Great Uncle.

The town has a sinister tradition for Halloween and Aveline is spooked by the child like scarecrows left or hung outside homes as Halloween approaches, little does she know of the towns sinister and ghostly history as she begins to read several ghost tales, but one is missing.

A truly gripping ‘could easily be true’ ghost story that actually made me gasp and want to hide at times, wonderfully written to engage the reader, like watching a film, every detail imaginable and real, perfect for ghost hunting fans and those who like to be thrilled !

Review to come to my blog/Goodreads on September something.(not sure yet).

A girl moves to a lonely sea town for vacation and finds creepy things lurking around.

I just loved Aveline, she is a bookworm like me and can get totally lost in books. Not only that, but she also loves ghost stories, which I have been doing since I was small. I just love bookworms in stories. I can often relate to them. Next to the bookworm stuff, Aveline was also a wonderful and brave character. She went on to search for Primrose despite the scary things happening to her and in the end even tried to do something (which was a bit stupid but mostly brave) for Primrose.

Before we get to Primrose's diary, we already see little snippets of it at the end of each chapter and I can tell you I was a big fan as they gave some good goosebumps! Later on we get more diary entries and I just loved reading them. They gave more insight to the whole situation (and what the story may be about), but also showed a girl who knew something was wrong and was trying hard to have people believe her.

I wish Aveline's aunt had been a bit more honest about things. And less dodgy.

Harold and his uncle were great characters. Harold took me a bit to get used to, but I loved his uncle. He was sweet, kind, and knew his stuff. And yes, he could win a gold medal for talking. :P

I found the tradition of dolls/children puppets on Halloween to be extreme creepy. The descriptions gave me goosebumps, but then there is also an illustration of it. Later we learn why the villagers use the dolls and I could understand, but dang, I would just have moved away. :P

The story about the lady of the water was more sad at first, though became increasingly NOPE as it continued.

I had a laugh that our girl went to the police.. for a ghost. Yep. And she was surprised they didn't take her seriously, um what did you think would happen?

When that person crawled out of the depths of the sea in a seriously creepy way? OMG NOPE. And then the whole chase scene in the DARK. I love it, but I was scared to death. That was amazingly written!

I loved the illustrations they added to the creepy atmosphere of the book.

The ending was a delight. Aww! I hope they meet again!

This is a book that definitely shouldn't be read at the time I read it (way past midnight in a dark and gloomy room), but rather during the day. I was spooked out quite a few times and before sleeping had to read a cutesy picture book to calm my mind. :P

I would definitely recommend this one to all.

Title: The Haunting of Aveline Jones
Author: Phil Hickes

Recommended age: 9+
Price: £6.99
Publication date: 17 September 2020

Topics covered: loss, loneliness, injustice

Blurb: Turn on your torches and join Aveline Jones!
Aveline loves reading ghost stories, so a dreary half-term becomes much more exciting when she discovers a spooky old book. Not only are the stories spine-tingling, but it belonged to a girl called Primrose Penberthy, who vanished mysteriously, never to be seen again. Intrigued, Aveline decides to investigate Primrose’s disappearance, with some help from her new friend, Harold.
Now someone…or something, is stirring. And it is looking for Aveline.

My view: The Haunting of Aveline Jones has all the ingredients needed for a spooky yet cozy autumn read: think bleak English coastal location, ghostly legends, raging storms, a labyrinthine book shop; all mixed with crackling fires, comforting cottages and a quest for the truth. It is definitely going to appeal to fans of the Goosebumps and Crater Lake series.
Aveline loves all things ghost and ghouly, and loves nothing more than to delve into a good ghost story. A family illness means Aveline has to spend her half term holiday with her aunt, in the coastal town of Malmouth. In the summer this seaside town is a friendly and welcoming place, but by October the tourists have left and the town takes on a more sinister feel. One of the first things Aveline sees when she arrives in the town is a scary child-like scarecrow by a garden wall; surely it’s a bit early for Halloween decorations?

An exploration of the local second hand bookstore delivers the perfect book of local ghostly folklore, but why has someone desecrated the last story in the book? What follows is a quest to find out why the book had been damaged, who was the original owner, and what had happened to her?

My inner middle-grade self was on tenterhooks reading The Haunting of Aveline Jones, with clenched fist, hair-standing-up-on-the-back-of-your-neck moments; this was devoured in one sitting, leading to a rather late night as I needed to know how it finished before I went to sleep! (I am a wimp at heart!) The expected publication date is perfect for this book, as the nights draw in and Halloween approaches; it will create the perfect real-life backdrop for the story. An extra bonus to this book, there are some great book club questions included at the end! These will be really useful for both book clubs and class discussions about the story.
I am now impatiently waiting Aveline’s next adventure!

Everything about this book grabbed my attention - the cover, the illustrations throughout, the premise and the main character in Aveline to name a few. This is a pitch-perfect ghost/mystery story for ages 9+ and being significantly older than this, I wanted more! It took me right back to being a child and wanting to be unnerved and chilled by a scary story. I applaud Phil Hickes for his writing, the prose might be challenging at times for younger children but absolutely adds to the quality of the story. Even the descriptions of the landscape and weather makes everything more real, atmospheric and just wonderfully creepy! A fantastic debut and I very much look forward to reading further stories with this strong, curious and smart young female character.

They usually say don't judge a book by it's cover. However, I'm not ashamed to admit that I picked up this beauty because of its cover, how could I not?
I was born right after the spookiest night of the year and even though I'm a scaredy cat I've always been drawn to darker gothic takes and spooky mysteries. That is why I was so happy to come across such fast-paced, thrilling and ghostly story.
I felt a strong connection with Aveline and her love of ghost stories even when she got so scared after reading them at night. Furthermore, Harold was so odd and shy I couldn't help to love him instantly and wanted to befriend him so badly. Lastly, don't get me started on Ernst because owning a sea town second hand bookstore is the REAL dream and he takes such good care of his books I would definitely love to work with him!
Okay, enough with the chit-chat. If you love fast-paced stories involving disappearences, spooky scarecrows, ghosts and unsolved mysteries, this is your book. Oh wait, this is your book series (there's more stories to come, how cool is that?)
Lastly, I wanted to acknowledge Robinson on the illustrations. They upped the book to a different level, building on the spooky atmosphere brilliantly.
I will definitely pick up the next one. Thanks for my ARC.

Just finished the fabulous ‘Haunting of Aveline Jones’. A perfect ghost story which made this grown up check the back door was locked! Thank you #NetGalley and #AvelineJones for a great teen ghost story @NetGalley
Would definitely recommend for Year 6.

This is as close to perfect to a middle grade ghost story mystery as we're gonna get!

Aveline is forced to stay with her Aunt in the lead-up to Halloween in a small coastal village. While there, Aveline comes across a book of ghost stories that used to belong to a girl who went missing over thirty years before. With spooky happenings, Aveline's life is then put into mortal danger when it appears a vengeful ghost may want her for her own.

I REALLY enjoyed this book. The atmosphere was pitch-perfect in this, from the gloomy stormy weather, to the small-town feel, it was very nicely written. It's one of those books where you could cosy down with a hot chocolate on a dark night close to Halloween and read cover-to-cover. For a ghost story mystery, this one is a fantastic one.

The character of Aveline is very approachable and her affinity for ghost stories adds to her charm. She is balanced out by her Aunt Lilian and new friend Harold, who try to add some rationality to the strange hauntings. A character I also absolutely loved was the quirky Mr Lieberman who owns the local bookshop. The adults in this aren't infuriating or in the way like a lot of adults are in middle grade novels - the characters were done so well, I seemed to like them all (well, maybe except the terrifying ghost... but no spoilers here).

I only wish this had of been longer as I would have loved more of the investigation into the missing girl's disappearance. However, this was such a quick and atmospheric read that I would recommend to read by the fire when it's dark out and you're after some chills. Very excited for the next book now - 'The Bewitching of Aveline Jones'.

. Aveline is a young girl obsessed with reading ghost stories. When Aveline goes to stay with her aunt over Halloween in an eerie seaside town, she is drawn into a real life haunting. The book echoes some of the conventions of classic horror stories, with strange local customs and creaky old houses with mysteries in the attic. I’d definitely recommended it to a year 5 or 6 pupil, but I’d perhaps check with parents first as it seriously scary.

This was a thrillingly spooky read, with a great coastal setting. It reminded me of the classic children's horror Room 13, set in Whitby, although this is set along the Cornish coast. The protagonist, Aveline Jones, is an avid reader of ghost stories, and is spending half term in her Aunt's creepy cottage. She finds a mysterious book in a local bookshop, where one of the stories is crossed out. She discovers it is linked to the drowning of a local girl, Primrose Pembernathy, in the 1980s. She has to find out more, but she is drawn too far into the story! I found parts of this book genuinely scary, and the image of the local cottages surrounded by effigies of children (to confuse the spirit that will otherwise come and steal their children) was very creepy. Definitely one for horror fans who enjoy the spooky and unsettling. I would recommend to Years 5 and 6 or above.

As a librarian it's important for me to be able to recommend books to children and their parents and I certainly will be recommending this book. It's fantastic to see a return of tbe 'ghost' story. The protagonist, Aveline Jones was a highly likeable character which makes a huge difference for readers and the author got the balance perfectly between writing for children without writing down. I will also recommend we include this in the book club we run as well. Look forward to seeing more from this author

“Malmouth appeared to have all the right ingredients for a Haunting. Stormy weather. Old houses. The eerie grey swell of the sea. But, most of all, that uncanny emptiness that ghosts like best.”

I devoured The Haunting of Aveline Jones in a matter of hours. It’s thrilling, mysterious and spooky and I literally could not put it down! A real page-turner!

A ghost story, an unsolved mystery coupled with an eerie seaside setting in the run up to Halloween make this the perfect Autumn read. The September publication date is timed impeccably to ensure that the atmosphere will mirror the dark, blustery autumn afternoons described in the book and the approach of All Hallows Eve. As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, this book is best enjoyed cuddled up in front of the fire as it begins to get dark.

Whilst her mother looks after Granny who is ill in hospital, Aveline Jones has to go and spend half term with her Aunt Lilian in Malmouth on the Cornish coast. The town has unnerving Halloween tradition and creepy scarecrow dummies begin appearing outside the cottages.

Aveline loves reading ghost stories and she pays a visit to the town’s quirky second hand bookshop. Here she meets the shop’s eccentric owner, Ernst Lieberman and his nephew Harold. As she browses the shelves, a book of local folklore book catches her eye. Aveline discovers it belonged to a girl called Primrose Penberthy, who vanished mysteriously, some 30 years ago and has never been seen since. She then makes another disturbing discovery when she comes to read the final legend in the book ‘The Lady in the Waves.’ Sensing that her findings are somehow linked, Aveline is intrigued. She decides to investigate Primrose’s disappearance, with some help from her new friend, Harold but then the hauntings begin… The story reaches its nerve-jangling climax on Halloween night.

The exact amount of suspense needed is delivered at just the right moments; a scraping sound in the middle of the night, small marks on the window pane that resemble a small hand...these build to a deliver a spectacular dose of horror appropriate to middle grade fiction.

Although the principal character is female, I feel this book would appeal to both boys and girls in equal measure. I thoroughly enjoyed the dynamic between Aveline and Harold– the awkwardness between them, desperately trying to hide the fact that they like each other perfectly captured the pre-teen relationships of upper primary school pupils. They make a great duo. The character of Aveline’s Aunt Lilian was also cleverly developed as the story progressed and I loved seeing the subtle changes in her relationship with her niece.

As a primary teacher, I would delight in reading this book to a class of Year 5 or 6 pupils - I loved scaring myself silly listening to a ghost stories as a child. This would be an ideal class book just before October half term and I know they would be on the edge of their seats wanting more.

I was absolutely thrilled to discover at the very end of the book that my adventures with Aveline Jones are not over...there is going to be a second in the series! The short synopsis of 'The Bewitching of Aveline Jones' sounds equally as gripping as the first and I shall be eagerly awaiting its arrival.

I will post a review on my blog at the point of publication.

Thank you to Net Galley and Usborne Publishing for allowing me to read this fantastic book ahead of publication.

It is only October but Winter has come early and so too has half-term. Aveline had many plans for her extended break but none of them involved residing with her cold and controlling aunt in her colder and bleaker seaside home. Looking to distract herself from the relentlessly dreary weather and her aunt's disproving demeanour she escapes to a second-hand book store to add a new addition of the ghost stories she adores so much to her collection. The mysterious volume she selects promises to be as nightmare-inducing as she was anticipating, but the history of it might just be even more so!

This was exactly the sort of middle-grade story I adore - eerie, full of adventure, and with a sassy protagonist unafraid to throw herself into danger if it also means getting to the heart of the mystery! The seaside setting, blanketed in its relentlessly gloomy weather, also added an extra chilling element and I adored Aveline's exploration of her new setting as I did the expansion of her sleuthing abilities. This was full of sinister atmosphere as it was heart and I adored both sides of charming yet ghostly little tale.

This is a really good start to what looks like a new series of supernatural stories. The characters were well developed and I especially liked Aveline who is both bright and courageous. The plot is a good one and genuinely creepy in places. It has a really good atmosphere and just the right amount of chills for the 8-10 age group. Overall I enjoyed this one a lot and will be looking out for the next in the series.

A fantastically haunting tale of ghosts and ghoulies from a brilliant debut author. Perfect for fans of spooky middle grade novels.

There will always be something about dark middle-grade/children novels that utterly terrifies me. Set in a bleak fictional town, Malmouth, Aveline Jones goes to visit her aunt in a seaside town in which a series of hauntings occur. 
This book is one that I definitely wish I had an opportunity to read when I was a kid as ghost ‘stories’ don’t always translate the same to adults as they do to children, but the language and beautiful autumnal imagery within the book did help me visualise it and did send a couple of shivers down my spine. At first I was sceptical of how much a book can actually creep me out. It’s written for children, and I, who hasn’t been one for many years now, cannot be even scared if even Pet Cemetery didn’t give me a single goosebump. Eeeeeek. Wrong. My lights will be staying on for the foreseeable future.The town is so atmospheric, immersive, and if you’ve ever lived in a seaside town, you’ll notice many things that will ring home to you. If you haven’t lived or visited one, then the book is a perfect opportunity for you to do so from the comfort of your own home. The metaphors are so clear, down to the point, all in all: perfect for children while holding a lovely balance between the contrasting sides of the spooky and the funny. It is absolutely phenomenal in all its darkness, and the character of Aveline Jones seems very much like a distant sister of our so beloved Coraline Jones. Filled with pumpkins, ghosts, small town characters, and mystery: this book is perfectly eerie for all ages to enjoy. The cover art is also phenomenal, and really brings the story to life.

Haunting, spooky and fully creepy. The Haunting of Aveline Jones was a spooky ghost story that had excellent atmospheric build up and suspense. I loved the integration of the missing child and her diary within the chapters. I liked Aveline herself and her interest in ghost stories. In addition, I enjoyed the bookseller and Harold who added their own quirkiness but in a different way. A truly scary tale that I imagine will delight younger readers!

I grew up in a town with a castle, the resident ghost there 'The Green Lady', haunting the ramparts waiting for her executed lover to return. As a kid, I was equal parts fascinated and terrified by the idea of her. Whenever we'd drive past the castle at night, I'd intensely look for her on the battlements, and instantly screw up my eyes for fear of actually seeing her. The Haunting of Aveline Jones completely harnesses that feeling, both in the context that it completely creeps you out, and that Aveline herself both wants to look and doesn't want to look.

The setting of Malmouth was perfection, totally atmospheric, it's an slightly abandoned town by the sea that's dark and gloomy, and constantly being lashed with rain and wind. The town's backdrop sets the tone for what's to come, and instantly makes you feel slightly on edge. My favourite part of the town was definitely the second hand bookshop, crammed with dusty old books and an eccentric owner, it felt like a little safe haven during all the spooky goings on.

Aveline is a wonderful protagonist, with her slightly quirky need to surround herself with ghost stories. I just loved her sense of adventure and how quickly she was willing to throw herself into any situation, even though she was just as on edge and spooked as the reader. She's supported by some great side characters, her auntie in particular with her love of order and rules added an interesting dynamic to the ghostly tale.

Of course you can't review a ghost story without talking about the spooky side of things. It is wonderfully creepy, and there were plenty of moments that left my spine tingling. I'd spend hours pouring over 'Goosebumps' books and 'Are You Afraid of the Dark?' was always on the tv, and The Haunting of Aveline Jones has all the elements of those classics. I would have adored this as a kid, it undoubtedly would have given me nightmares, but that wouldn't have stopped me reading it time and time again.

I'd have loved it to be a little longer, just to spend more time discovering Malmouth and it's history, but I was excited to see that there will be another book and can't wait to see what comes next for Aveline! A fantastic little book, which would be the perfect read for Halloween for both middle graders and adults alike! If you like your stories with a little creep, definitely check this one out.

Aveline’s half term plans are thrown into disarray when Mum has to visit Grandma who is ill in Scotland, and Aveline is taken to stay with her Aunt Lilian, whom she does not know very well, in a Cornish seaside village. Although fond of a ghost story, she is disturbed by the bizarre and grotesque child-like scarecrows that keep appearing around the village, and the strange noises that emanate from Aunt Lilian’s cottage. On a visit to the bookshop, she immediately feels at home with proprieter Mr Liebermann - even if the same cannot be said for his nephew Harold – and returns to the cottage with a book of folklore and ghost stories from the local area. The last one has been completely blacked out to the point where it is unreadable. As she tries to find out why, and what the story might be about, she uncovers disturbing facts about the book’s previous owner.
There is a real sense of menace in this brilliantly told ghostly mystery, balanced by a down to earth realism in the relationships between the characters and their differing views on existence of ghosts. Touches of humour in the dialogue and good-natured, kindly characters add warmth to the mix. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which kept me turning the pages but anyone who shares Aveline’s imagination should certainly read it in the daytime!

I’d first like to thank Usborne for allowing me to read this digital ARC via Netgalley!

The first thing I need to say is that I am glad I read this in the summer, while the nights are light haha! Not that it would be too scary for children, I am just particularly easy to scare/have an overactive imagination! It is definitely the perfect level of creepy for young ghost story fans in the run up to Halloween.

Aveline is like many of us; lover of ghost stories until the creaking starts and the howling of the wind rages on and then it gets too scary. Couple this with her stay in an out of season seaside town round Halloween and a strict aunt, who is keeping secrets and you have the creepiest of settings.!Oh, and let’s not forget the awful scarecrows designed to look like children that adorn the front gardens of those who live in Malmouth. They were the icing on the (terrifying!) cake.

The setting description was perfect – if you have ever been to a seaside town in the winter, it is like a ghost town and usually pretty freezing and dismal! This is a perfect example of pathetic fallacy for students; the bleak, grey palette that is described coupled with fantastic language that foreshadows what is to come perfectly sets the rest of the story up.

‘Malmouth appeared to have all the right ingredients for a haunting. Stormy weather. Old houses. The eerie grey swell of the sea. But, most of all, that uncanny emptiness that ghosts liked best.’

The motley crew of characters also works a treat; a young girl with a love of ghost stories, an annoying sidekick with his heart in the right place, his old book seller uncle who seems a bit zany and a no-nonsense aunt, as well as the mystery of Primrose, a teen who went missing several decades prior without a trace. Throw in a ghoulish folk tale, ‘The Lady in the Waves’ and prepare to be freaked out! Aveline is determined and brave but the characters knit together seamlessly. Take one away and the whole set up fails. I can’t tell a lie, the description of the lady reminded me of ‘The Woman in Black’, which I had nightmares about after watching! The tiny detail of having no visible eyes changes the whole tone from ghost story to full on fear factor, or it did for me! (I am easy to spook though. 😂)

I’m not going to go into detail about the story line because it would be easy to give spoilers in this type of novel but it’s fair to say Phil Hickes has executed the perfect ghost story here and really pushes it to the limit for the intended age group, with the fear factor, vocabulary and writing techniques. There is so much to pick out! You know that moment on a film when the protagonist is hiding, trying to hold their breath so the killer spectre doesn’t find them? The descriptive language is so detailed, I could actually hear that in my head!

All in all, The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a macabre, atmospheric novel, perfectly paced and absolutely essential for reading under the covers with a torch in the run up to Halloween this year!

When Aveline Jones discovers she has to spend October half-term with her slightly aloof Aunt Lilian in Malmouth, a deserted seaside town, she’s far from happy; however, her love of ghost books and all things spooky is fed when her aunt leaves her at a musty old book shop. Here she discovers a book of local ghost stories that once belonged to a girl from Malmouth, Primrose Penberthy, who went missing on Halloween many years ago. After finding the final story in the book blacked out, and then being given Primrose's diary by Mr Lieberman who found it in his shop, Aveline is convinced there is more to her disappearance than meets the eye, but can she discover what happened? Is there a link to the past and why on Earth do so many of the locals have creepy child-like scarecrows in their gardens?

The setting for this book is just perfect for such a spooky story: a deserted seaside town with stormy, roiling seas; an old musty bookstore piled with long-forgotten second-hand books, and old cottages that creak and groan with age. If you then add into the mix Aveline whose love of ghost stories means she reads more into bumps and knocks in the night, you've got the perfect setting for a ghost story!

The tension and suspense builds from the very beginning of this book and doesn't let up. I read it I one sitting as I couldn't put it down! I was desperate to discover what was going to happen next and yet, at the same time, had my fists clenched in fear and was hugging the nearest cushion!

At 224 pages, this book will be perfect for children who like shorter novels yet still like thrills and brilliantly written plots. I'd recommend The Haunting of Aveline Jones for those aged 9+, as well as those who enjoyed VE Schwab's City of Ghosts, Ross Montgommery's Christmas Dinner of Souls and Jennifer Killick’s Crater Lake.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is brilliantly eerie and deliciously spooky and a book to read in a stormy night by torch-light ... if you dare!

This story gripped me from the very beginning. All the best horror stories have a wintry seaside setting and this tale doesn't disappoint.

Obsessed with ghost stories, Aveline is sent off to spend a few days in the sea side town of Malmouth with her Aunt. She is reluctant to go but her mother needs to visit her Grandmother in Scotland. It isn't long before she is adding to her collection of ghost stories after visiting a quaint second hand book shop. Aveline, helped by the Great Nephew of the book shop owner, discovers a few quirks about the book itself and it's previous owner. As she delves into the history of Malmouth, her aunt's house and her book it starts to appear as if Aveline herself might be in danger.

Thank you to NetGalley and Usborne Publishing for the e-arc copy to read and review.

Set in the fictitious Cornish sea side town of Malmouth, this is the story of Aveline Jones who is sent to spend the autumn half term holiday with her Aunt whom she does not know very well. Aveline is a keen reader of spooky ghost stories and with nothing else to do with her time she soon finds herself if the local bookstore own by the eccentric Mr Lieberman. Whilst at the store she discovers a book about Cornish ghost stories with One of the stories unreadable and the name of a local girl who went missing 30 years ago written inside. Desperate to know more about the missing girl, Aveline sets out to investigate her disappearance with the help of Mr Lieberman and his great nephew Harold.

This is a fantastic fast-paced paranormal middle grade mystery with engaging characters and a marvellously spooky atmosphere throughout. The setting of the desolate seaside town in the autumn/winter when it has been abandoned by the tourists was perfect. The town almost felt like another character within the book.

As a primary school teacher I cannot wait to get my hands on a finished copy of this book to share with my class. They will love it. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for the next in the series.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a deliciously scary story that will send shivers down your spine. One cold, blustery October half-term, Aveline travels to the Cornish coast to spend the week with her hard-edged, strict Aunt Lillian. Right from the start, readers are immersed in a shadowy, autumnal mood. The town of Malmouth is full of folklore and ghost stories. Superstitions live on even though most towns people have forgotten how they started and Aunt Lillian’s old house is full of secrets.

When Aveline discovers Lieberman’s Second-Hand Bookshop, she enters a treasure trove – like a secret book cave waiting to be explored. Searching through the stacks of old books, she comes across a volume of local ghost stories and the name Primrose Penberthy. Who was this girl? How did she disappear? What connection could she possible have to Aveline Jones?

Readers’ hearts will beat a little faster and they’ll hide under their blankets as they journey with Aveline to solve the mystery of the missing girl and the strange hauntings of her aunt’s house. Is Primrose Penberthy a kindred spirit or is there something more sinister yet to come?

A heart racing, palm sweating, deliciously terrifying 5 star Halloween read for sure. Although you may be sleeping with the lights on after!

I wish this book had been around when I was growing up – younger me would have loved it (of course present me did too!) Atmospheric, creepy and chilling it was a perfect read for a grey, rainy day.

Aveline is staying with her Aunt Lillian for a few days in the coastal town of Malmouth. Out of season, this makes for a perfect backdrop to the story that follows – the stormy weather, the deserted streets, the unfamiliarity to city-born Aveline.

The writing was really imnersive and I could feel the wind whipping my hair and the spray from grey waves hitting my face as I hunkered down along the front with Aveline and local boy Harold, who she gradually – somewhat reluctantly at first! – befriends.

Shy, but hiding it with quick comments (and a long fringe), Harold’s clumsy attempts to make friends with Aveline were so well-written and touching to read; I thought he was a great character and I’d love to see more of him in the next book (which I found out about the other day and now can’t wait for!)

I also really liked the way the adults in the story were portrayed too – they aren’t stereotypically stupid, mean or absent, but real, supportive and caring. I especially Lillian and the effect Aveline’s visit had on her.

And when Aveline starts to suspect some ghostly goings on, they don’t dismiss her, but walk a careful line between believing her and suggesting alternative theories, helping her to get to the bottom of it.

And it’s these ghostly goings on that make the book so thrilling. Those and Keith Robinson’s wonderfully dark and atmospheric illustrations!

Aveline loves a good ghost story and ‘stuck’ at her aunt’s for a few days with limited internet and TV, she buys a book of ghost stories from Mr Lieberman’s (another great character!) bookshop down the road.

And this is where the trouble starts. A crossed out story at the end of the book, eerie visions in the sea, a mysterious previous owner gone missing, some truly disturbing scarecrow-like effigies and things that go bump in the night… the tension, mystery and spookiness gradually build and come together leading to an absolutely heart-pounding finale.

Plus, The Specials Madness and cherry red DMs.

I really enjoyed this, and I know if I’d read it as a child I’d have loved it then too. Creepy and atmospheric with a likeable and believable cast, I can’t wait to recommend this in work as the nights draw in and I’m so excited already for book two!

Set on the South-West coast of England, ghost-obsessed Aveline is dropped off to stay with her Aunt Lilian for half-term. She very quickly notices that Malmouth is a coastal town unlike any other when she begins to spot spooky, child-like scarecrows. A visit to the quirky, local bookshop leads to a chilling discovery; consequently, Aveline and 'Book Boy' Harold set out to solve a spooky mystery.

The story is set in autumn (my favourite time of year) and the author does a brilliant job of personifying the weather, using it to create a sense of foreboding throughout the book. The main characters are well-developed and the added narration adds more depth to the story.

If you enjoy spooky stories, 'The Haunting of Aveline Jones' is the perfect middle grade book to read during Halloween season. I have already pre-ordered a copy to share with my Y5-6 class next term! I was glad to read that there will be another Aveline Jones mystery to come. If I have one criticism of the book, it is that it ended too quickly!

Thank you to the author, publisher and Net Galley for an advanced e-copy in exchange for my feedback.

I was initially drawn to The Haunting of Aveline Jones because of the gorgeous cover art. I know that you're not supposed to be judging books by their covers, but let's be honest, we all do. This one immediately jumped out at me and drew me in, and once I read the blurb I was hooked.

The book follows Aveline Jones, who's gone to stay with her aunt, Lilian, for about a week or so when her mother travels up to Scotland to visit her ill mother. Aveline's aunt lives in the small coastal town of Malmouth, where she tutors some of the local children. Lilian and Aveline have something of a strained relationship, thanks to not having seen each other for a while, and Lilian's slightly removed and regimented way of dealing with children takes some getting used to.

Aveline explores Malmouth and discovers a second hand book store, run by the elderly Mr Lieberman. She picks out an old and unusual book about local ghost stories, and is soon enthralled by the local tales. However, the final story in the book is crossed out. Wanting to learn more about this, Aveline discovers a mystery about a girl that disappeared in Malmouth thirty years ago, a girl who was convinced was being stalked by a ghostly figure.

One of the things that I really likes about The Haunting of Aveline Jones is that there's not a huge amount of conflict. I thought the book was going to be setting up a stern and overbearing aunt figure that would cause all kinds of problems for Aveline, but instead she was a kind woman, just one who's not used to having a young teen around. And it was nice to see this relationship evolve over the course of the book, and see the two of them become closer.

In fact, there wasn't really any kind of adult foe or overbearing authority figure for Aveline to overcome, something that can become something of a easy trope in middle-grade books. Instead, the adults are well reasoned and kind people. They don't instantly dismiss the things kids say out of hand just because they're adults and know better. It also means that the mystery is able to be given centre stage without other issues that are superfluous.

The central mystery is where the book really shines, and author Phil Hickes is able to craft a story that goes from slightly unsettling to very scary in no time at all. The book managed to get under my skin in a way that few horror books do. It might have been the cold and rainy coastal village on the edge of Halloween that helped with this, but it was also the fact that Hickes didn't give much away. He slowly built up the idea of something ghostly lurking in the background, laying small seeds that would later bloom into very real fear. I've read a lot of adult horror books that aren't even half as scary, and I think that it's because those authors didn't spend enough time building up the world and the atmosphere, slowly introducing more elements until you suddenly realise that you're reading curled up beneath your blanket, sitting on edge. And the fact that he managed to do so in a relatively short book aimed at younger readers was astounding.

There were times I was reading that I found myself wondering if perhaps things got a little too scary, if maybe this might be too much for the target audience, but I don't think it is. It's just a book that's able to appeal to a broader audience beyond just middle-grade readers. The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a story that can draw you in, that makes you want to devour it in a single sitting, and will have you turning on the lights to chase away the shadows. It might be best to read this on a dark and spooky night around Halloween, but just be warned that if you do you might end up hiding under your covers.

This is a spine tingly ghost story perfect for those Autumn evenings when the warm summer evenings are a distant memory and there is a definite chill in the air.
Draw the curtains, turn up the heating and join Aveline Jones on her October half term break in the small seaside town of Malmouth.
Aveline, the main protagonist, is staying with her Aunt Lilian. Convinced that her stay will be boring, reluctantly Aveline ventures out to explore Malmouth only to discover that it has a bookshop. Within its dark interior, Aveline discovers a book of new ghostly tales. She sets of home with her purchase, hurrying past the creepy child-like scarecrows that are appearing in the town. Are they part of a Halloween tradition or part of something more sinister and spooky?
As Aveline reads her new purchase, she discovers that the final story is missing and that the books previous owner also vanished mysteriously more than 30 years before.
What follows is a brilliant haunting 5 star read. Aveline turns detective but will she uncover the town's haunted past in time? Whatever you do, make this your number one read but don't turn off the light.

I really really loved this book! It is the perfect spooky read! I just wish it was longer!!

Following Aveline as she visits a Cornish seaside town and visits a book shop to find local ghost stories. This leads her to a cold case mystery from the 80’s and to a local myth that are somehow connected!

So spooky and the atmosphere was everything. I have yet to read an adult book with this kind of atmosphere.

My only tidbits about this book is that 1) it was too short! I wanted more! She did all this within practically 2-3 days! Why not the full week that she was visiting?
2) It seems very unrealistic for the mum to go from Bristol to Cornwall and then to Scotland TWICE in one week. I can’t even figure out the logistics of that. I know as a middle grade, that isn’t supposed to matter. But financially that is a lot, and also timewise that is a lot of traveling!
And 3) is Malmouth really meant to be in Cornwall? The beach/seaside town and especially the weather sounds more like from something in the northern coast of England.

Otherwise I really loved this book!

Aveline Jones loves ghost stories... Until she finds herself in one.

When Aveline is forced to spend her half term holiday with her Aunt Lilian by the sea in Malmouth, she fears she's in for a week of rules and dullness. Until, that is, she finds a second hand book with a mystery. The more she knows, the more real the mystery becomes, and maybe half term being dull would have been a relief...

Phil Hickes has managed to create a proper ghost story with Aveline Jones, one you certainly don't want to read right before bed! It's jumpy and spooky, perfect for curling up under a blanket on a rainy day and reading in one or two sittings. Heart pounding and bone chilling, everything you love about ghost stories has found its way into this book.

Genuinely creepy, brilliantly plotted, with warm and gorgeously crafted characters. I would have loved this title as a child and did so as an adult. Can’t wait for the next in the series. Great illustrations too - perfectly pitched. Wishing this book every success.

Before I start this review, I wanted to say thank you to the Usborne for sending me a proof and giving me the opportunity to read this awesome book!

I started this yesterday and I am sooo glad I did! I live in the south where this book is set and we had a very blustery, rainy, cold, and overcast day, which was an absolutely perfect setting for this book! ... I may have lit a fire to top off the atmosphere...

This book is superbly written and has all the hallmarks or a great horror. Chilling, tension filled and exquisitely eerie. It is so atmospheric you call smell the sea, touch the books and feel the biting cold. The scenes are scattered with stormy weather, creepy scarecrows, bumps in the night and silhouette lightening.

Aveline our protagonist is left with her aunt, while her mother visits her ailing grandmother in hospital. She expects nothing more and plans for a boring stay in a empty dismal seaside (well best laid plans and all of that...). Nearing Halloween the town emptied of its usual tourists. In its wake has left a dark sinister feel. Aveline who has a love for ghosts, paranormal and ghost stories regrets on bringing her books along with her given the lack of phone signal. That is pretty much all I am willing to say because its easy to give spoilers. I read this knowing next to nothing about it and I am so glad I did. It deserves the gasps and the drawing of covers it will entice.

What I will say is the characters are perfect, it is rare you are able to pick up a book and you are unable to find any faults, or make desired tweaks. Aveline is an amazing protagonist, who shows a great deal of determination, courage and honesty, even when overcome with fear. Mr Ernest Lieberman who is the bookseller I would love to be.

This will be my go to Halloween recommend without a doubt!

What an absolutely superbly spine-tingling story! The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a satisfyingly chilling, tension-filled and eerily atmospheric story, and is the perfect read for a cold, dark evening – if you dare!

Aveline Jones has been sent to the seaside town of Malmouth on the Cornish Coast to stay with her Aunt Lilian whilst her mother visits her Grandmother who is unwell.

Aveline is a booklover who has a predilection towards those of the spooky kind – you know, the kind that keep you awake at night or, even worse/better, wake you up in the middle of the night! After visiting the most wonderful dusty old second-hand bookshop, she buys a book of folklore about local ghosts and phantoms.

Aveline finds the name of the previous owner, Primrose Penberthy, written in the book and, on further investigation, discovers that she went missing over 30 years previously. She is determined to find out what happened to her, to not let her be forgotten and to unearth the truth behind the last story in the book which has been crossed out … a booklover’s nightmare!

So begins a riveting mystery, laden with masterfully balanced tension and a sense of foreboding which builds a tightrope of suspense, orchestrated perfectly to send shivers down your spine. Is there any truth in a local almost forgotten ghost story? Why are scarecrows placed outside homes on Halloween?

I am in awe of how enticingly the eerie atmosphere has been portrayed through the senses: a seaside town in winter, stormy weather, crashing waves, child-like scarecrows, scratching noises, unexpected occurrences and sightings, shocking revelations, the threat of danger … this is definitely a story that made me jumpy and read some parts from behind my fingers, and I loved it for being able to do that!

Aveline is a wonderful protagonist who shows great courage, determination and strength despite her understandable fear. She is intent on solving the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Primrose, and feels an affinity with her as she learns more and more about her. I loved how the relationship between Aveline and her Aunt Lilian changed during the course of the story, from one of tentativeness and awkwardness to closeness and warmth. I also enjoyed Aveline’s growing friendship with Harold who despite his scepticism about ghosts and irritating her at times, proves a loyal ally in her investigation.

I have to give a special mention to the bookseller, Ernst Liberman, who is a wonderfully rich, eccentric character, kind-hearted with a wealth of bookish knowledge, who utters the lines that are very close to my heart … “ … Books are the most precious thing in all the world …”

This is an absolutely perfect middle-grade read for those who like the frisson of fear, the eerie atmosphere and the build-up of tension that are all part of a thrilling ghost mystery story … it gave me delicious reading chills.

This book made me yearn for autumn and as a summer lover this is no mean feat! Aveline Jones is chock full of ghosts, turbulent seas and friends in the unlikeliest of places.
Set by the sea and so beautifully described that at times I could truly imagine the sound of the waves, Aveline embarks on an adventure after finding a mysterious book. Alongside her friend she sets to solve a town’s mystery and save a missing girl, or is the girl trying to save her?
This is going straight into the library in school, I cannot wait to share this with children, it’s an excellent read, spooky not scary, cold yet full of warmth!

I am always intrigued by middle grade spooky books because it is a fine line to walk to make it spooky without stepping outside of the lines of the target group. I think The Haunting of Aveline Jones does that well. At the end of the day, many young kids are interested in spooky elements and ghosts and this book will appeal to many, just as Aveline will. 

Aveline is staying with her distant aunt for half-term as her mother goes to take care of her grandmother. Her aunt lives in an old house in a small town near the sea. It is not how she imagined spending her half-term, but at least she'll be able to read some more ghost stories. In a second hand book store she finds an old volume of ghost stories from the area. But the last story is crossed out. From there Aveline falls into a mystery that reaches back to an old case of a missing girl, Primrose, presumed death. 

I think what I liked a lot about this book is the mood that is there throughout the book. It feels grey and bleak in the town, with odd customs. I certainly felt the mood that is conveyed on the UK cover. There is something very unsettling about it all. The added illustrations by Keith Robinson that are spread throughout the book help set the mood. 

But another thing I liked is how that the adults were present for most of it. There is the show owner of the second hand bookstore and his cousin (of the same age as Aveline). But also surprisingly her aunt who builds a relationship with Aveline throughout everything that is happening. Never did she make Aveline feel silly for feeling as something paranormal was going on around them. She believed her, because she knew that Aveline would never make it up. 

So often there are middle grades where adults completely discard what the kids tell them. And while that does happen most of the time in real life, I love seeing it play out different because I think it is also a teaching moment for the adults that read middle grade. To be open to what our kids have to say. We don't have to squash them because we think it is silly. 

All in all I think this is a fun and spooky middle grade read that is perfect for the coming Halloween season.

I've just finished the haunting of Aveline Jones and as a lady in my 40's I know I am not this novels target audience, but I have to say I loved it, The story gradually builds up the suspense and it reminded me of the books I used to read when I was younger there was just the thrill.of fear for younger readers to enjoy. I will definitely buy this book for my granddaughter (I know I'm to young to be a nan ) and hopefully pass on the thrill of scaring yourself under the covers of your bed. I will look forward to reading more from Phil Hickes and Aveline

This is the perfect book to read on a rainy October day, curled up under a blanket, candles lit, hot chocolate steaming beside you. Unfortunately it was sunny when I read this book but the book's atmosphere is absorbing enough that I was transported to the dreary English seaside while reading anyway

This book follows Aveline as she is dropped off at her estranged aunt's to spend the half term holidays. Straight away, Aveline senses some strange things about the seaside town where her aunt lives, and soon finds herself involved in a mystery involving ghost stories and a child who went missing 30 years ago

I loved this book, and would've loved it as a middle grade aged person too. Aveline was a fab protagonist, and the side characters were great too. I loved the bookshop and could fully imagine myself getting lost for hours in there (especially when the prices sound so reasonable)

As I said, the atmosphere and setting are incredible. I could picture Malmouth perfectly, and it made me nostalgic for all of the English seaside towns I've visited. This would be the perfect Halloween read for someone who, like me, wants to be spooked but is a scardy cat

There is something so cosy about spooky middle-grade reads at the start of autumn and I was delighted when I was approved for this one on NetGalley.

Aveline Jones is spending some time at her aunt’s old, creaking house in Malmouth on the Cornish coast. Bored out of her mind with limited phone and internet access, Aveline finds her way to the local second-hand bookshop, where she finds a fascinating tome, full of local ghost stories. But the book holds a mystery of its own and Aveline finds herself at the centre of a supernatural folktale that was never quite put to sleep.

The story is illustrated by these wonderful, atmospheric images by Keith Robinson that really add to the drama. The scarecrows bearing an uncanny resemblance to sick children really chilled me and gave the whole town an uneasy vibe that was apparent from the very first chapter. I knew I was in for more than a few scares!

Mr Lieberman, the owner of the bookshop, is a charming, eccentric man who I know would have endless stories to tell about his childhood in Germany and how he came to be in possession of the hundreds of books in his shop. I would love to spend an afternoon, exploring the stacks and uncovering mysteries and secrets. His shop is the only pocket of magical warmth in the whole of Malmouth.

Hickes did a really great job of personifying the setting. To me, the town itself seemed to be a huge, heaving creature waiting to burst and unleash all of its long-buried sinister secrets. Aside from the ghosts Aveline met as the narrative progressed, the stark empty streets and grey storm-buffeted town of Malmouth acted as the biggest, most unsettling entity of them all.

As well as being a sad, chilling ghost story, this is also a tale of friendship. Aveline feels a deep connection to Primrose Penberthy, a girl who went missing in Malmouth 30 years previously. Defying time and space barriers, Aveline feels herself developing a unique friendship with this girl with whom she has so much in common and yet will never get the chance to meet. The power of this friendship comes to its peak in the final climax of the book and my heart lifted as it materialised.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is the perfect, eerie Halloween read for anyone who loves a quick spooky story. Although it is middle-grade, it is pretty frightening at points, so it’s perhaps not one for younger readers with nervous dispositions. Packed full of local folklore and intriguing mystery, this is the first in a series so I can’t wait to see what Aveline gets up to next.

The witching hour is nearly upon us guys! Spooky October is steadily approaching and a good TBR full of ‘haughty vibes’ is a requirement for this time of year.

And, what do I recommend? I HIGHLY, HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE HAUNTING OF AVELINE JONES!!! I’ll be perfectly honest when I say that I went into this book with pretty much no expectations, and then came out of it FULLY CREEPED OUT BUT SMILING!

Avaline’s favourite reads often involve the supernatural with a primary focus on ghosts. So when she is sent to a small costal town to spend half-term with her up-tight and rigid Aunty, she decides to erase the border by finding out the local legends. Only then, in an old dusty pile of books, does she find out about local girl Primrose Penberthy and her disappearance. It is up to Aveline to find out what happened to Primrose and just how the supernatural fits in here.

THIS BOOK WAS SO AMAZING! And, for a middle-grade, I did not expect it to haunt me so much. And I mean ‘haunt’ here in the sense that I was turning the light on so the ghosts didn’t eat me! Honestly, such a good read with great charcters— I loved the quirky, talkative old man who ran the bookshop— and the setting was just so perfect to create this creepy and ghostly vibe.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Thank you so much NetGallery and Usborne Publishing for this early readers copy! I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Read. Be happy. Stay safe.

I really could not put this book down! It is the perfect autumnal ghost story and will send shivers down your spine.
Aveline Jones has been sent to stay with her aunt on the Cornish Coast for half term while her mother visits her sick grandmother. The gloomy, stormy seaside setting is so atmospheric and creates an eerie tone right from the start. When searching for a book on ghosts in the local second-hand bookshop, Aveline comes across the perfect volume of stories about the local area. The only thing is, she soon finds that the last story has been completely blacked out by the book's previous owner, Primose Penberthy, and Aveline is desperate to find out why. With the help of Mr Lieberman, the bookshop owner, and his nephew Harold, Aveline begins to investigate further and uncovers more than she bargained for...
This well-crafted, fast-paced tale is full of suspense and will keep you hooked right to the end. It is perfect for middle-graders and adults alike but it may lead to you keeping the lights on at bedtime!

There’s a chill in the air, the leaves are starting to come down and we’re almost into October...so this was a perfect time to curl up on the sofa and read this ghost story.
Aveline Jones is a serious young girl, used to spending time alone and she loves nothing more than to read ghost stories under the covers. As her half-term approaches, Aveline is upset to be forced to spend the holiday with her aunt in the Cornish seaside town of Malmouth.
From the moment she arrives Aveline senses something odd about the place - from the remote setting to the strange child-shaped mannequins that decorate many of the houses. Her aunt’s home makes strange noises and for a child used to living in the city this is a place where her imagination can run riot.
Aveline finds herself pushed into visiting the local bookstore. There she finds a friend in its chatty owner and his nephew, but she also discovers a mysterious book telling some of the local stories.
The setting is perfect for this quite charming story. Everything is quickly put in place, and though we have an idea that something scary is going to happen (which is, naturally, linked to the book Aveline has bought) there’s a reassuring adult presence to stop it being too scary for its intended audience. Aveline is a determined and resourceful character, whose imagination is to be lauded but there’s a resilience to her that I couldn’t help but admire.
A must-read for those who like to be scared without being terrified, and the illustrations were perfect for setting the mood of each chapter.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to review this before its release...and I can’t be the only one excited to see there’s a second book to come.

8 autumnal books that you should read right now
As soon as it turned 1st September, I was all ready to curl up with a book and a blanket. I had a look through my TBR and picked out some autumnal books – and I thought I’d share them with you too!

The Haunting of Aveline Jones by Phil Hickes
This spooky middle grade mystery sounds perfect for Halloween. Aveline Jones loves reading ghost stories, so a dreary half-term becomes much more exciting when she discovers a spooky old book. Not only are the stories spine-tingling, but it once belonged to Primrose Penberthy, who vanished mysteriously, never to be seen again. Intrigued, Aveline decides to investigate Primrose’s disappearance. Now someone… or something, is stirring. And it is looking for Aveline.

I enjoyed this book, it was genuinely scary in parts and a great spooking book for middle grade. Loved the build up of elements that built the spooky atmosphere-the diary and the scarecrows worked particularly well. The ending built to a fantastic pace and it was very thrilling.

A great ghost story with genuine scares, but enough cosy details to lull you into a false sense of security. Perfect to read by the fire when the wind is howling outside...

Love, love, loved this book! Middle grade is really lacking in spooky stories, particularly in the last few years. This is a perfect addition to the genre and a great Halloween read. The characters are likeable and the plot was strong. Will definitely be purchasing this book. Thank you for the review copy. I cannot wait to read about Aveline’s next adventure.

The Haunting of Aveline Jones is a brilliant start to a brilliantly spooky series. Both the cover and the story remind me a lot of 'Scary Stories To Tell in the Dark', specifically, last year's film adaptation (what with both of them involving a book of ghost stories to which there is more to than is at first apparent - and sacrecrows ;D) and I mean that as a good thing.
Like the stories our intensely likable heroine prefers, it reads like an old fashioned ghost story, with the atmosphere and sense of dread built up slowly, increasing tension, culminating in the big scare as payoff. The cold, rain and wind swept seaside town of Malmouth is rendered wonderfully and perfect for this time of year.