What a gem of a story!

Burton has created the type of historical fiction I would have gobbled up as a child. In fact, I gobbled it up as an adult too.
It’s 1918 and WWI is drawing to a close, although the residents of London do not yet know this. So when Bo’s older brother Harry is conscripted into the army his family have no idea how long he might be gone or if he will return.

On the day he is due to leave, Bo pulls a treasure out of the Thames during lowtide. A sparkling, silver jewel, covered in pearls and rubies. It looks just like a miniature moon, but as Bo holds it in her hands, a weird feeling overwhelms her – the river begins to speak to her and she sees a vision. When she is able to look around again a strange boy has appeared – a boy who also seems to have an unusual connection to the river and the moon jewel.

So begins Hidden Treasure, a marvellous mystery of friendship, love and loss perfect for 9-13 year olds.

A big shout out to the beautiful cover art by Melissa Castrillon. Highly recommended for lovers of both historical fiction and fantasy and for fans of Emma Carroll and Katherine Rundell.