Publication Date: 6 July 2023

The Blurb

Amity has run off into Badwell Woods. Her brother Claude goes after her, only to discover his little sister’s scarf dangling near a house in the trees. Has she gone inside?

He enters, not expecting a three storey-building with NO stairs. And a party laid out when there’s nobody else around. Only when the front door locks behind him does he realize it’s a housetrap.

And they’ve been caught . . .

The Review

Chillingly good storytelling. If you imagine Stephen King and a much darker Jumanji you’ll understand why I’ve a few shorter nails than I woke up with, and a very squished cushion of comfort, but it was so worth it! If, like me, supernatural thillers give you goosebumps even when closed, this might be best read in daylight…

From the moment the Housetrap is sprung, Emma keeps cranking the tension up, notch by notch as the children search for a way out. Secret rooms, seances and sinister secrets leaving you gasping as spooks and scares spiral together ever closer as we reach a gripping conclusion that doesn’t quite leave the Badwells Wood curse broken and buried.

Friendship dynamics are deftly explored as we see Claude and Delilah’s lifelong friendship seemingly at an end as she feels pushed out by newcomer, Sam. Delilah’s mathematical expertise, Sam’s Escape Room experiences and Claude’s belief in the supernatural are all needed to beat the house at its own game, whilst testing the bonds of trust and loyalty within the group. Resilience, tenacity and hope are all required to see them past their own fears in a bid to ensure all four children make it home.

Perfect for children who like scares from the safety of a brilliantly written book, and great for fans of:

• Seven Ghosts by Chris Priestly
• The Red Gloves And Other Stories by Catherine Fisher
• Wren by Lucy Hope

Huge thanks to Laura and Chicken House for sending me a finished copy for review.