This book, more so than the previous ones, felt like the authors were changing up the formula slightly. This time there’s a curse, disguises, intrigue, a cast of suspicious characters and a windswept mountain castle with its own private train line. With danger and warring motives at every junction, will Hal and Uncle Nat be able to crack the case before their time in Germany is up? A curse, a very strange family, a missing will, witches, a spooky castle and a steam train gave great background to the story which was as always beautifully illustrated by Elisa Paganelli.

As in previous books, this one combined a thrilling story and a classic denouement at the end with lots of interesting facts as Uncle Nat and Hal travel across Europe.The old family home (more of a castle, with a train station inside) is big enough to hide many secrets. After completing artistic studies she made a career in advertising and has been the founder and owner of a small award winning design and trade business. Read an extract from the book here, or downl oad our questions to use for discussion in your own book club. Elisa Paganelli was born in Italy and since childhood, hasn’t been able to resist the smell of paper and pencils.

We’re delighted to bring you this thrilling adventure to enjoy in a book club setting – whether with friends, family or your school mates. The thought of a private line to a rather unusual large house is sure to capture children's imaginations and thrill them.Join the crew and tell us what you thought of this month’s title, discover other brilliant books in our gallery of reading recommendations, stay updated by signing up to our newsletter and make some tasty book-themed snacks for your Book Club!