Spark by M G Leonard

Cover illustration by Paddy Donnelly

Published by Walker Books

ISBN 978-1-4063-8938-8

I have just spent the most glorious few days in the company of Jack, Twitch and friends as they simultaneously try to solve the mystery of the cat murderer at work in Briddvale and get excited about the rare sighting of the lammergeier. These two worlds collide in an exciting quest to save the rare bird and expose its potential enemy.

Meant in the most respectful way, this book transported me to my childhood days of reading Secret Seven books. I adore the characters and their willingness always to give each other a second chance.  There are realistically childish mistakes, humility and lessons learned – and plenty of humour to make it palatable. It’s a page-turning adventure above all, but it is also inspired to set this story (and series) in the nature reserve of Aves Wood, teaching us all sorts about the natural world along the way.

For those who have already read the first in the series Twitch, this is the one in which Jack comes into his own and takes centre stage. You don’t need to have read Twitch to enjoy Spark – but you will want to read all of this series at some point!

Thank you to Walker Books and NetGalleyUK for the advance proof of this book.