Book Review Thursday: Return to Finkletom

Return to Finkleton by K.C. Hilton
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy
Publishing Date:
First Heard Of: Goodreads and Author's Website
Purchase: Amazon
Source: Won Giveaway on Author's Website











Summary on Goodreads: When the Finkle children discovered magical secrets in Uncle Harry’s shop, they vowed to keep them safe. Two years later Jack, Lizzy and Robert realized that the perfect weather wasn’t the only secret waiting to be discovered in the mysterious shop. Things aren’t always what they seem to be!

There were people who would stop at nothing to acquire land in Finkleton. Of course, there were also those determined to protect the little village from greedy outsiders. Will selfish desires destroy the village of Finkleton?

It was only a matter of time before those who cared about Finkleton and those who cared only for themselves would come into conflict. The result of this outcome would likewise depend on a matter of time.

Once again Jack, Lizzy and Robert must learn to work together to protect the magical secrets of Finkleton.

Come along to Finkleton. A new, magical adventure is about to begin!
Review

Having never read the first book The Magic of Finkleton, I worried temporarily if reading the second one in the series would be hard or confusing. But I was relieved that the author took me on a journey that left me with enough tidbits of what happened in the first book to keep me on track and not take away or slow down the story of the current book. First off this is a children's book and as typical of many children's books it's written in a language for children to understand. So if you can't stand the explaining or style of books for small children no matter if it's a book that can transition to an adult loving audience like myself, Return to Finkleton is not for you. In Return To Finkleton the Finkle children: Jack, Lizzy and Robert have to protect the secrets of a shop inherited by their family.  Also there was the issue of greedy outsiders like Mr. Lowsley who wanted land in Finkleton only to discover it's secrets for profit. The secret being that Finkleton is not just a magical place but within the shop are things that determine the town's prosperity or downfall. Like objects that have the ability to control weather (e.g. an hour glass that can control the rain). After two years of perfect crops they discover a room under the library. What seem to be harmless books bring about a series of calamities including lightning and the burning down of Miss Caroline's home.

As the children try to fix disasters happening in the town, Robert tries to fix everything out of regret and guilt. Unfortunately he ends up messing with a clock that takes him forward in time to a Finkleton that has Mr. Lowsley actually residing there and Miss Caroline living in the Bakery since she never got to rebuild her home. As he works to get back to his time, he and the future version of his siblings learn lessons in trust, honesty and having faith in each other and others around them. How everything comes together and other misadventures will be an enjoyable read for those willing to get a copy and join all who have read this book and been transformed into fans of three children trying to take care of a town called Finkleton.

This book was a fun read for me. As a bibliophile I really got into the character of Lizzie a book lover like myself. Robert the youngest will appeal to readers who know what it's like to be the young one in the family and having to sometimes force people to listen to you. Jack the eldest shows how older children can take on responsibilities beyond even their capabilities sometimes because they feel it's their duty and end up being overprotective. K.C. Hilton created a magical story in a town when everything goes perfectly until human error or greed gets in the way. Proving no matter how perfect something seems, nothing is perfect. A great lesson for children as well as the fact that anything can be worked out with love and co-operation. This book is for ages 8-11 and will capture the interest of any child who loves reading fantasy or a really good book. And even a couple adults.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars