MONTGOMERY BONBON: MYSTERY AT THE MANOR, by Alasdair Beckett-King and Claire Powell, Candlewick Press, June 3, 2025, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)
A retired master thief is killed and world-famous detective Montgomery Bonbon is on the case in Mystery at the Manor, by Alasdair Beckett-King and Claire Powell.
Bonnie Montgomery (as her case-cracking alter ego Montgomery Bonbon) has been tasked with delivering a priceless diamond to Adderstone Manor, the home of retired master thief Fergus Croke. The plot thickens faster than a good roux when Croke is found dead hours later, and every one of his four protégés is suspected of the dirty deed. But when everyone is a crook, how does even the great Bonbon know where to begin?
With the help of Grampa Banks and an undercover best friend, it’s not long before Bonbon uncovers hidden identities, motives a-many, and a rather surprising hedge maze full of monkeys. But can they catch the killer before it’s too late? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Press
Mystery at the Manor is the third book in Alasdair Beckett-King’s Montgomery Bonbon series. The first two books are Murder at the Museum and Death at the Lighthouse.
As with the previous books, Mystery at the Manor unfolds through delightful tongue-in-cheek narration that will appeal to fans of the Lemony Snicket series. Beckett-King’s text is full of snappy dialogue and wonderful asides. That text, paired with Claire Powell’s stylized illustrations move the story forward at break-neck speed.
Bonnie aka Bonbon is a plucky character with great style and a flair for the dramatic, making her the perfect middle-grade protagonist.
At approximately 275 pages, Mystery at the Manor is a decent length, but feels much shorter. And with mystery and mischief throughout, it’s a comfortable read. It would also make for a delightful read-aloud.
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