The Lost Twin (Scarlet and Ivy #1) - Sophie Cleverly
I hadn't heard much about this book when I noticed a couple of girls in my year level reading it. Then I found it on sale at Dymocks, and picked up a copy during one of their '2 for $25' deals - I'm so glad I did!
The story centres around Ivy Grey who is sent to boarding school to take her twin sisters place - literally. Sweet and rule-following Ivy needs to figure out how to fit into Scarlet's argumentative and rule-breaking shoes. Meanwhile, she finds clues about the mysterious school she's attending, and has to avoid the terrifying Miss Fox while she discovers what is really going on.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. This was a real page turner, and I immediately went out to buy book too (review coming soon). Sometimes with mysteries for children, they are either obviously simple or the children are abnormally gifted etc. Neither of those things is bad, but this one was a happy medium between the two.
Ability Range: 10+, maybe for advanced 9 year olds
Age Suggestion: 10+. It's nearly 300 pages, and very plot heavy. There's some great character development, and subtle elements that younger or less confident readers may miss.
Content Notes: Now I'm an adult who adores a gruesome and violent crime thriller novel - so I'm probably not the best person to talk about this. I wouldn't say this book has very scary moments, but there certainly are some tense scenes. It completely depends on the child - if they are easily affected by scarier themes, then this isn't for you. If they enjoy other mystery/'horror' books (Goosebumps etc.), then this will be fine!
Grab a copy today!
*Book depository (cheapest!)