The Ivory Rose by Belinda Murrell

I haven't enjoyed a junior fiction read so thoroughly or as much as I did The Ivory Rose for quite some time.

Perhaps it was the local setting of Annandale in Sydney. Perhaps it was the time slip theme as Jemma found herself suddenly in 1895. Perhaps it was the well-drawn, believable characters. Or perhaps it was the strong, warm-hearted, likeable Jemma.

It was all of the above! But it was also beautifully crafted by Murrell. A well set-up mystery with dramatic tension and humour. The historical facts were woven into the drama in a natural way. Clues and danger aplenty to keep the pace moving along briskly. And a very satisfying ending.

What more could you want....except another story by Murrell as soon as possible! And for me - a stroll next week around the Witches houses of Annandale to soak up the atmosphere a bit longer.

If you enjoyed this book, you might like Girl About Time by Kerstin Gier.