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The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Portraits and Poison

A historical mystery featuring brave young detectives

JT Williams author Simone Douglas illustrator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers

Published:30th Mar '23

Should be back in stock very soon

The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Portraits and Poison cover

This engaging mystery follows Lizzie and Belle as they solve a stolen painting case in 18th-century London, showcasing their bravery and cleverness.

In The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Portraits and Poison, readers are transported to the vibrant streets of eighteenth-century London. This engaging middle grade mystery follows twelve-year-olds Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle, two girls from vastly different backgrounds who share a passion for solving crimes. When they successfully save Lizzie’s father from an attempted murder, they prove that no mystery is too challenging for their detective duo. Their adventure begins during the grand unveiling of the Sancho-Mansfields family portrait, a night meant for celebration that quickly spirals into chaos as the painting is stolen.

As the summer of 1777 unfolds, Lizzie and Belle find themselves embroiled in a web of thefts, kidnappings, and even poisonings. Their journey takes them through the twisting streets of London, where they must navigate a dark conspiracy that threatens their friends and family. With the stakes higher than ever, the girls must rely on their wits and courage to uncover the truth behind the sinister events that have unfolded. The story is infused with themes of civil disobedience and rebellion, reflecting the spirit of the Little Rebels Awards.

The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Portraits and Poison not only captivates with its thrilling plot but also educates readers about real Black British historical figures. This illustrated detective mystery is perfect for young fans of Robin Stevens, blending history with an exciting narrative that keeps the pages turning.

“A fantastic means of countering erasure across all spheres including artistic, fictional, historical and political; challenging misrepresentations while encased in a brilliantly crafted, engaging and accessible story.” – Farrah Serroukh, Little Rebels Award

Reviews for Lizzie and Belle: Drama and Danger

“Black British Georgian history is effectively brought to life through characters based on real people, but it is the suspense and plot twists that keep the pages turning” – Sarah Keating, The Irish Times

‘This vivid theatreland mystery – whose atmospheric setting recalls Phillip Pullman’s The Ruby and the Smoke series – is deeply rooted in the abolitionist milieu and resonates sonorously today.’

The Observer, Chapter Books of the Month, 29th May 2022

‘I was hooked from the outset as Williams expertly takes the real life historical figures of two black Georgians Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle and imagines them tackling a mystery of an attempted onstage murder! From the descriptions of the Jamaica Coffee House to the candle lit theatre chandeliers Georgian London is vividly brought to life. A must read for mystery fans.’

Joseph Coelho, Waterstone’s Children’s Laureate

“Bringing Georgian London vividly to life, this is a wonderful historical mystery with two delightful heroines. I can't wait to read the next instalment and find out what Lizzie and Belle will get up to next!”

Katherine Woodfine, author of The Sinclair’s Mysteries series

ISBN: 9780008485283

Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 25mm

Weight: 300g

486 pages