"Non-stop mystery and adventure, enhanced with a touch of magic"
May 2024 Debut of the Month
Zélie Dutta can beat her father at chess, has crushed the head of a poisonous snake with her naked heel, can fart with her armpit and curse in three languages. She is magnificent inside and out! Which is just as well, because she needs all her capabilities and more in this thrilling magical adventure, set in fin de siècle Paris.
Where is the mysterious, powerful Snakestone, and why are so many bad people hunting it? Where is Zélie’s father and is his disappearance connected to the Snakestone? Helped by her friends Jules, a sewer sweeper, and the performers at the Cirque Fantastique, Zélie sets out to find the answers, putting herself in real danger as she does.
Piu Dasgupta’s magical adventure story is a non-stop scramble through sewers, over rooftops, across train lines as Zélie – just – stays ahead of her enemies. We are never quite sure what’s going to happen next, and her adventures make for thrilling reading, with Zélie a dashing protagonist. If you love mystery and adventure, enhanced with a touch of magic, this is for you!
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Transporting readers to the enchanting streets and hidden depths of nineteenth-century Paris, Secrets of the Snakestone is a tale of mystery and intrigue.
Secrets of the Snakestone transports readers to the enchanting streets and hidden depths of nineteenth-century Paris, where young Zélie finds herself embroiled in a riveting tale of mystery and intrigue. Sent from her home in India to work as a maid in Paris, Zélie's life takes an unexpected turn when a mysterious boy emerges from the sewers clutching a locket belonging to her father. Together, they delve into a world of dark secrets, cursed stones, and colourful circus performers, accompanied by an adorable baby sloth!
Zélie shines as a fearless and spirited protagonist, complemented by the cautious and thoughtful Jules. Her inner pep talks add a delightful depth to her character, especially during moments of uncertainty. Despite its historical backdrop, the story maintains a modern pace, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with fast-paced action and intrigue.... Read Full Review
This fantastic tale is a must read for all those who are a fan of riddles and mysteries.
Secrets of the Snakestone is an amazing book that follows Zélie and Jules on a fantastic journey. When Zélie receives a locket that used to hold the Snakestone, adventure calls. She needs to find her father before the Brotherhood of Blood get their hands on the Snakestone. This fantastic tale is a must read for all those who are a fan of riddles and mysteries. The book was thrilling all the way through – from the very first page, to the epic ending. The chapter illustrations are beautiful, and always have me staring at them for ages. The book is the perfect entertainment for rainy evenings, because it takes you to another world! It has an enchanting plot, and the characters are so interesting!... Read Full Review
