“What you love can never be lost.”

Jessie Burton is most well known for her novel The Miniaturist and more recently her retelling of the story of Medusa.

Hidden Treasure is her debut in the world of children’s fiction.

This is a story that weaves together history, magic and a treasure hunt with a twist

Although set during the period of World War One, there is a Dickensian almost gothic feel to the tale - young Bo lives in Battersea and is known as a mud lark as she is often found near the Thames. Her brother has gone off to war and she lives with the fear of what will happen to him.

On one of her regular visits , she discovers a piece of jewellery known as The Eclipsing Moon. This jewel has magical powers and if held alongside another piece known as The Brightest Sun whilst recounting an ancient ballad then the river has the power to bring somebody back from the dead.

Aided by Billy River, threatened by the evil Mr Muncaster who believes the jewels are his and encouraged by the curious class teacher Miss Cressaant ( who has her own secrets ) Bo finds she has a magical abilities from the energy of the Thames

A race against time to find the missing jewel and ballad before an upcoming eclipse being the perfect time for the power of the river to do its magic, Bo and Billy overcome various obstacles.

This is a tale of self belief, survival and identity- of family and love - woven into a. magical adventure

An intriguing and captivating debut

Recommended for 10-12 year olds and readers of Hilary McKay and Emma Carroll