This satisfying middle-grade mystery features a colorful cast of characters and their even more colorful secrets.
The creaky old Greenglass House, known as an inn for smugglers, is usually quiet over Christmas break, but a storm ensures that, this year, there's "no vacancy"--it's full of eccentric characters. The innkeepers' adopted son, Milo, wishes he could have his parents to himself, especially when they enlist their cook's help in serving the houseful, and young Meddy tags along. Soon, however, Milo and Meddy find themselves in the middle of the guests' secrets and mysteries, such as items gone missing, and the true motives for their stay.
This book makes you want to curl up by the fire with a hot beverage and not stir until the last page. Much like a Dickens novel, every detail about the characters propels the plot apace--and, at times, tucks in some whopper surprises. Highly recommended as a family read-aloud and equally pleasurable as a vacation book to be savored by independent readers. --Susannah Richards, associate professor, Eastern Connecticut State University