The girl and the ghost: Grand opening by Jacqueline Harvey

I am not in the target age for this book, but I absolutely love this series! In this latest instalment of Josephine’s (aka Jet’s) life in her family’s chateau in France, a lot of mysterious events take place before the official Grand Opening event. The presence of a ghost is not one of these mysterious happenings. Louis the 17th is Jet’s companion and regular visitor via her gold locket, but when the locket goes missing this is worse than all the other things that happen that upset the smooth sailing for the launch of the chateau as a tourist destination. Jet’s romance interest with her friend Gabriel is also on slightly uneven territory. Will there ever be a second kiss? And who can be trusted in their circle of staff and friends? Is sabotage a likely explanation for all the problems they face? 

This is another winner for those who love Jacqueline Harvey’s stories and characters. For readers aged 10-14 this is a delightful read, with the flavours of France adding absolute joy. Tres magnifique! Readers of the first books in the series will be delighted for this new episode in Jet’s life. There is mystery and young love, friendship and jealousy, artistic charms, restoration delights, plus historical references with ghosts, and kittens! What an amazing combination. And although we are left wanting more, the mystery still has room for further exploration. (I love Harvey’s cheeky acknowledgment that her character may have read one of her previous series.) The setting in France is also a highlight. French language use is translated at the beginning of the narrative and will be appreciated by those who do not have any French language skills.

Themes: Ghosts, Hotels, Thefts, Friendships, Romance, France, French culture, Jealousy.

Carolyn Hull