Books Reviews

Dead Man’s Cove – Book Review

By Angela Youngman Jan 10, 2011, 15:57 GMT

When orphaned Laura Marlin moves from a children\'s home to live with her uncle in Cornwall, she longs for a life of excitement just like the characters in her favourite detective novels. A real life adventure is on hand as she is deposited at her uncle\'s spooky house ...Why does her uncle, Calvin Redfern, forbid her to go to Dead Man\'s Cove? What\'s the truth about Tariq, the silent Indian ...more

Laura Martin loves books - especially stories about ace-detective, Matt Walker.  Books have become her escape from a world of orphanages and foster homes.  Then the news comes that an unknown uncle has been discovered, and she is to go to live with him in Cornwall.  Laura is convinced that at last she will have adventures of her own. 

But nothing is quite what it seems.  Her uncle does not explain why he has not been in touch before, and does not want to talk about his own past.  Why is the young Indian boy Tariq so afraid of everyone?  Is he friend or enemy?  Why is everyone so afraid of Dead Man's Cove? Who has left a message in a bottle? 

Accompanied by Skye, a three legged husky she has befriended; Laura cannot resist trying to be a detective and solve the mysteries that surround her. 

Unlike St John's previous stories there is little magic or fantasy involved, this story is much more basic mystery and adventure but is quite engrossing.  The character of Laura is well drawn and very likeable, and will undoubtedly appeal to any girl wanting adventure.