Book Review: The Sinister Secrets of Singe by Sean Ferrell

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the THE SINISTER SECRETS OF SINGE by Sean Ferrell Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

About the Book:

Title: THE SINISTER SECRETS OF SINGE

Author: Sean Ferrell

Pub. Date: June 6, 2023

Publisher: Pixel+Ink

Formats: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 384

Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/THE-SINISTER-SECRETS-OF-SINGE 

The Wild Robot meets Sweet Tooth in the first book in a sweeping adventure series packed with robots, smugglers, battles, and a lonely boy trying to find where he fits in the world.

Eleven-year-old Noah has grown up in a mysterious house that grows larger every night with only his mother and a robot-boy for company. He spends his days building robotic devices for the city of Liberty, a place he’s not even allowed to visit—not since his father almost destroyed it when Noah was only a baby.

When Noah discovers a message hidden in one of his father’s inventions, he decides to run away to find him. He’s sure that at his father’s side he’ll finally get the recognition he deserves. With the help of a band of smugglers (especially unofficial second in command, young Winona), he sails to Singe to rescue his father, who he’s certain is as misunderstood as he is, but the man he finds there is even more  of a monster than his mechanical creations. And when Noah returns home, he accidentally leads his father’s robot army to Liberty once more. 

Now, it’s up to Noah to rescue the city—but to do so, he’ll have to make a terrible choice.

Reviews:

“A boy’s determined search for his father lends emotional heft to this steampunk-inflected series starter. . . . Tackling questions about sacrifice and sentience, this speculative enterprise, accompanied by Carter’s moody illustrations, offers melancholic refinement. . . .”—Publishers Weekly

“Ferrell opens this exciting new middle-grade adventure series with a bang. . . . Lush world building and an action-packed storyline will prove perfect for fans of book franchises such as A Series of Unfortunate Events. With a plot that never fails to lose steam, accompanied by Carter’s eerie illustrations, Noah’s origin story is one that fans of adventure and mystery ought not to miss.”—Booklist

“This high adventure veers between fast action sequences and stolid instances of emotional development.”—Foreword Reviews
 
“An impressively descriptive story. . . .”—Kirkus Reviews

 

Why Should You Read This?

Sean Ferrell’s “The Sinister Secrets of Singe” is an enthralling first installment in a thrilling adventure series that effortlessly combines elements of science fiction, coming-of-age, and the search for belonging. The story revolves around eleven-year-old Noah, who lives in a peculiar house that mysteriously expands each night, with only his mother and a robot-boy companion for company. This fantastical setting sets the stage for an unforgettable journey that will keep readers glued to the pages from beginning to end.

At the heart of the tale is Noah’s longing for recognition and acceptance. Denied access to the city of Liberty due to his father’s destructive past, Noah spends his days using his talents to construct robotic devices for the very city that shuns him. However, when he stumbles upon a hidden message in one of his father’s inventions, Noah sees a glimmer of hope. Driven by a desire to reunite with his father and earn the recognition he craves, Noah embarks on a courageous journey to find him, unaware of the dark secrets that await him in Singe.

Accompanied by a band of smugglers, led by the spirited Winona, Noah’s adventure takes a perilous turn as he sets sail to confront the truth about his father. The narrative excels in creating a vivid world filled with awe-inspiring mechanical wonders, relentless battles, and heart-pounding moments that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Throughout the story, Noah’s emotional turmoil and his need to find his place in the world are deeply relatable, making him an endearing protagonist for readers of all ages. As he uncovers the shocking reality about his father in Singe, Noah is faced with a heart-wrenching dilemma that challenges his principles and forces him to confront the darkness within.

Ferrell’s writing is engaging, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement that will resonate with young readers and captivate adult audiences alike. The author’s skillful world-building effortlessly transports readers to Liberty and Singe, immersing them in an intricate tapestry of human emotions and mechanical marvels.

“The Sinister Secrets of Singe” is a testament to the power of family, friendship, and the complexity of choices. As the tale unfolds, the readers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, culminating in a breathtaking climax that will leave them eager for more.

In conclusion, “The Sinister Secrets of Singe” is a must-read adventure novel that leaves a lasting impression. Sean Ferrell’s talent for storytelling shines through, offering a captivating and richly imagined world. The book is a thrilling beginning to a promising series that promises even more excitement, challenges, and personal growth for the remarkable protagonist, Noah. Whether you’re a fan of robots and technology or a lover of heartfelt coming-of-age tales, this book has something for everyone. Prepare to be enthralled by Noah’s journey of bravery, sacrifice, and self-discovery.

 

About Sean Ferrell:

Sean Ferrell lives and works in Brooklyn, NY. He writes stories about children and adults who don’t understand why they keep getting into trouble. Sometimes those stories are for adults. Sometimes for children. His work is usually speculative in nature. His shorter writing has appeared in journals and magazines such as Electric Literature’s “The Outlet” and The Adirondack Review. 

Visit him online at www. seanferrell.com

Sign up for Sean’s newsletter! (scroll to the bottom)

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

 

About The Illustrator:

Graham Carter can often be found printmaking, sketching, or making a mess in his studio. He was recently shortlisted for the Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize. He lives in Seaford with his wife and sons.

Visit him online at www.graham-carter.co.uk

 

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a finished copy of THE SINISTER SECRETS OF SINGE, US Only.

Ends July 25^th, midnight EST

a Rafflecopter giveaway