This book is everything a middle grade book should be. Adventure, mystery, and a character that resembles that of a real twelve-year-old. Kiki is a typical twelve year old, seeing all her flaws and not paying attention to the things that make her unique. She wants to be like her older sister Alison and a 3 week stay at Faylinn ballet school brings her real strength and courage to life.

This book was a joy to read, the writing was superb and it flowed effortlessly onto the page. As a reader I was drawn into the story right from the beginning and I thought the emotions that Kiki displayed and faced on her adventure were really well done. I loved her uniqueness and the way she created her own words.

Faylinn is not what it seems and weird things happen before Kiki even leaves her house. The promise of mystery and adventure had me turning the pages and I loved how the ballet school came to life with vivid descriptions that were both eerie and magical. I felt Kiki's emotions as she struggled to fit in and her disappointment at not being as balanced and coordinated as the other children.

Oliver was another excellent character and as he and Kiki explored the mystery of Faylinn and set out to protect the school and the students, I couldn't stop reading. The Willis were dangerous and cunning and Kiki fought all her fears to take them on.

I loved the theme of family that ran throughout the story and even found myself tearing up at the end. This book reminded me of why I fell in love with reading at such an early age and how any story told well can resonate with a reader of any age. I think all 10 to 12 year old girls will love this story and find parts of themselves in it too.

A big thank you to Owl Hollow Press and Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this beautifully written, action packed, spooky tale.