• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 7
• Reading age: 8 to 12

Shortlisted for Ontario Silver Birch Award 2010

 

Selected, Canadian Children's Book Centre's "Best Books for Kids & Teens" (Starred selection, 2009)

 

Since Halloween, things are getting back to normal for Cat Peters. Now the big drama in her life isn’t a battle against diabolical fairies, but a battle of the sexes on the soccer field. Meanwhile, ever since Cat’s little sister, Sookie, was imprisoned on Grim Hill, she has only been interested in one thing: magic. When the aspiring conjurer takes her discoveries too far, it is up to Cat to set things straight. Can she really bear to return to the dreaded Grim Hill for a final confrontation with the powerful beings that dwell there?

Linda DeMeulemeester is the author of the critically acclaimed Grim Hill series. The Secret of Grim Hill won the Silver Birch award in 2008, and her other books have been nominated or shortlisted for several awards, including the British Columbia Young Readers’ Choice Red Cedar Award, the Saskatchewan Young Readers’ Choice Diamond Willow Award, and the Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award. Also a teacher, DeMeulemeester enjoys sharing her lifelong love of reading with children.

Linda DeMeulemeester's profile page

"This book deserves a shout out . . . Fun and adventure-filled, this book would be great for any younger siblilng, especially if they like soccer and magic."

Em's Bookshelf

"Cat gathers her friends, including Clive, to follow an exciting battle with Father Winter."

Children's Liiterature

"A winning, fun, and spooky series."

Montreal Review of Books

"Tying in Celtic mythology themes and fairyland magic, DeMeulemeester weaves an entertaining story that will appeal to fans of mysteries and fantasies."

Booklist

"Includes some information about the Celtic legends that some readers may want to investigate furhter. The characters in the story are well developed and the conflict bewteen the girls' and boys' soccer teams is cleverly written. Reluctant readers will follow the storyline and enjoy the action and suspense."

Library Media Connection

"A strong, spirited heroine who might make a good addition to a Harry Potter-reading [kid's] library."

HollyBookNotes

"This series is just spooky enough to be fun without being too scary. The books are written in a straightforward, fast-paced style that is an easy read and perfect for tween reluctant readers or anyone interested in a fun adventure with magic!"

Canadian Children's Book News

"Darker (and a little spookier) than its predecessor, the plot is tightly knit. DeMeulemeester does an impressive job of weaving in sports, academics, and an entertaining cast of characters, along with authentic Celtic fairy lore. Cat's character is truthful and feisty without being brazen. DeMeulemeester has seemingly hit her stride."

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

"DeMeulemeester combines the old world charm of fairy tales, black magic, and Celtic mythology with the modern-day world of soccer, homework, and divorce to come up with a fast-paced story that keeps you guessing until the very end. As Cat struggles to keep Father Winter from gaining power over Grim Hill, she is also struggling with emotional maturity and coming of age. The characters in the book are far from perfect, making them all the more likeable. I would highly recommend this book and am anxious for the next installment of Grim Hill. Rated E for Excellent."

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