The haunting of Hindmarsh Hall by Kate Gordon

The Haunting of Hindmarsh Hall is the first mystery in Kate Gordon’s exciting new series The Secret Detectives Club. Readers will be caught up in the unwitting charm of Table Cape Bay, a small coastal town in Tasmania where strange things are beginning to unfold.

At the heart of the story is Rocko, a quiet and thoughtful boy struggling to find his place in a world that doesn’t always feel kind. Having recently moved schools after being bullied, Rocko often feels overshadowed by his effortlessly cool older sister. His attempts to start clubs with his best friend Cosmo are more miss than hit, until the night they try to start a Scrabble club. What begins as another failed effort takes an unexpected turn when they’re joined by Mingus, a cool kid, and then encounter none other than the famous author P.D. Watson, who is visiting from out of town. When Watson reveals his temporary residence, Hindmarsh Hall, is haunted, the night becomes very intriguing.

Driven by a mix of excitement and fear, Rocko and his new club members set out to uncover the truth behind the troubling incidents that are occurring at Hinsmarsh Hall. But in true detective fashion, not everything, or everyone, is what they seem. Rocko’s nerves are tested, but he soon discovers a surprising new talent; a knack for close observation and critical thinking. As the mystery deepens, Rocko’s quiet courage begins to shine.

Gordon’s novel is filled with warmth, humour and a good dose of ghostly suspense. The atmosphere is skilfully spooky without being too scary, making it a perfect entry point for middle-grade readers who love a mix of mystery, friendship, thrills and twists.

Ultimately, The Haunting of Hindmarsh Hall is a story about sleuthing, bravery, belonging and self-belief. It is a great start to The Secret Detectives Club series, and readers who love a little investigating will eagerly await Rocko’s next case.

Themes: Detectives, Supernatural, Friendship, Critical Thinking.

Michelle O'Connell