Molly Pepper and the Night Train
Author: Courtney King Walker
Publisher: Lands Atlantic Publishing
Published: March 2015
ISBN: 978-0-9857250-5-1
Paperback: 254 pages
FTC FYI: Received a paperback copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Mindy
Goodreads Summary
Hidden somewhere in the fog of the San Francisco bay lies Blue Rock Island, home to the bay area’s two best-kept secrets: Bell’s Bluff, the old, abandoned prison on one side of the island, and the Night Train, a mysterious train ride on the other. When twelve-year-old Molly Pepper receives a secret invitation promising a night of magic and adventure aboard the Night Train, she is skeptical. In her experience, most promises prove too good to be true. The fact that she lost her mom is proof enough.
Still, Molly gives hope another chance. Together with her loyal friend, Noah Wonderly, they sneak out of the house and follow a string of clues leading to the Night Train. But when the train stops at Bell’s Bluff, Molly discovers the real reason she was invited. There, she starts to wonder if hope and magic not only fix broken promises; but make you believe in them again.
My Review
This book is a treasure. I LOVE middle grade books, especially middle grade books with lots of heart, fun, and mystery. This book has it all. There were so many little things in this story that made me smile, and I loved the wonderful extra sweetness that made this book special (a certain scene with Noah, that I just loved). Molly is a fantastic character, but Noah stole the show for me. He was my favorite. I loved the pacing in this book too, the short chapters when it wasn’t being told by Molly’s POV, were the perfect added touch to give the story even more. It begins with a fun adventure for Molly and Noah and lots of people are waiting to see how it unfolds. There is a reveal at the end that I suspected, but when it came, it was heartbreaking and I loved how it all came out. Perfect ending to a fabulous book.
5 out of 5 stars. Courtney is also the author of an enjoyable YA book called On the Fringe that I reviewed back in 2012. Check that out here.
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