Laura Marlin Mysteries

DEAD MAN’S COVE HAS WON BLUE PETER’S 2011 FAVOURITE READ AND BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS. The paperback edition is out now. KIDNAP IN THE CARIBBEAN is in all good bookshops now or available from www.amazon.co.uk. The third Laura Marlin mystery, KENTUCKY THRILLER, will be out in July 2012. If you can’t wait until then, my latest novel, THE ONE DOLLAR HORSE, will be out on 1 March 2012.

‘An absorbing novel that will hold the imagination of young readers and keep them guessing throughout’ (Jake Hope THE BOOKSELLER )

‘A refreshing Cornish mystery adventure with a traditional, almost Blytonesque feel, but a thoroughly modern and tenacious heroine’ (Fiona Noble THE BOOKSELLER )

“There was never a dull moment, and Lauren St John captures the eeriness and mystery of the story magnificently… In a world obsessed with vampire tales, is Lauren St John set to bring back the nation’s love for a good old detective story? Judging by this book, it seems definite!” (Amy Naylor, age 14 )

“Dead Man’s Cove has in many ways the feel of a traditional adventure mystery, with clear-cut villains, clues and false trails and a dramatic climax. But Laura is a thoroughly modern girl… a pleasure to read” (THE BOOK BAG )

“Feisty orphan Laura Marlin is rescued from her life in a children’s home by her mysterious uncle Calvin. Laura loves everything about her new life in Cornwall but soon realises that it is full of secrets. Laura’s sharp observation and her passion for amateur investigation sets her on the path of some great adventures during which she discovers why her new friend suddenly no longer wants to see her, the secret world of her uncle and why she is never allowed to go to Dead Man’s Cove.” (Julia Eccleshare LOVEREADING4KIDS )

‘With vivid descriptions and a page-turning plot this is the perfect children’s summer read, especially for those lucky enough to frequent the magical coastline of Cornwall’ (Octavia Karavla WATERSTONE’S BOOKS QUARTERLY )

“… clear, warm-hearted storytelling…” (Amanda Craig THE TIMES )

“Here is a heroine I wanted to be friends with. Funny, clever and brave, she shines like a shiny thing… I loved everything about this book. The writing is excellent, the story is clever and full of twisty turns, our main character is charming and likable and the supporting cast of characters are more than just walk-ons… It is clever writing. Lauren St John is definitely – in my opinion – a master storyteller, keeping plot and pace steady, letting us run with Laura…” (Liz de Jager MY FAVOURITE BOOKS )

“It’s gripping, hugely entertaining and has something special about it – I just can’t put my finger on it. Lauren St John has written a beauty with this one! My only criticism is that it wasn’t longer. I was left yearning for more!” (Ryan Woods EMPIRE OF BOOKS )