The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern
Warren Cabral author Corryn Webb illustrator Daniel Redford editor
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Wilton Books Ltd
Published:18th Sep '25
Should be back in stock very soon

"...this is another great addition for newly independent readers looking for an entertaining mystery series to enjoy." LoveReading4Kids
The Lakeland Mysteries introduce two extraordinary primary school sisters forever finding themselves caught up in action-packed puzzles to be solved by their powers of observation and deduction, helped along by an ability to share their thoughts. Set in England's beautiful Lake District, the five fully colour illustrated books in the first series are written for children aged 9 - 12 and tell gripping tales that range from the dark arts of mass deception to body-snatching, shape-shifting aliens. The other books in the series are: The Fire on Slate Fell 978-1-0686043-0-0; The Wolf of Ennerdale 978-1-0686043-1-7; The Lad in the Lane 978-1-0686043-2-4; The Vanishing Young of Rydal Cave 978-1-0686043-4-8. AUDIOBOOK The Vanishing Young of Rydal Cave ISBN 978-1-0684055-4-9
Meet the Donaldson girls - primary schoolers and detectives. Mae, clever and very, very proper. Isla, a wild, artistic soul most at home wandering the fells of England's beautiful Lake District. They are united by an uncanny ability to share their thoughts.
After the arrival of monstrous Aunt Mary, much of Cockermouth falls ill with a mysterious stomach bug. On a hunch from one of their aunt's crazy drawings, telepathic sisters Mae and Isla Donaldson follow a trail of ambition and despair that leads to the door of a famous family, exposing the darkness within. Is this one secret too many?
"The loving and complementary relationship between the sisters is not only fun but utterly endearing. It is very reminiscent of the old classics, but with a notable modern twist that gives both creativity and intelligence a chance to shine. The prose is sure to delight both children and adults alike, as the language is both evocative and accessible to readers of all levels." Lu Acevedo, Writer and ESL Tutor, Mexico City.
"A sparkling adventure blending family drama and an intriguing mystery into one irresistible read. Follow sisters Isla and Mae as they unravel the secrets of strange brews, eccentric artists, grimy mischief- makers and a series of strange events in a tale that is unexpected, hilarious and just a bit off-beat. Two of the sharpest detectives you'll ever meet - can't wait to join them on their next adventure." Sally McNish, mother of 4, dog lover, London.
"'Families are a funny business,' and get a bit wild when Isla and Mae are on the case, sorting out the problems of the adults, with their extraordinary secret skills. They may be young but with keen observation and imagination, they can peer into the tangled lives of the people of their community. When the whole town comes down with disgusting tummy troubles, the girls' mental focus is sharpened, and the case is on!" John Zuill, Actor and father, Australia.
"The two sisters' first taste of shandy leads them awry and headfirst into a mystery amongst complex and colourful characters. Clever, sharp, and connecting the dots far quicker than the adults...these are certainly two children who should not be underestimated!" Natasha Sharma, Accountant, London.
"Really enjoyed this fast-paced mystery with its delightful heroines, ingenious plot twists and vivid sense of place. Follow Isla and Mae, two very different sisters, as they investigate mysterious Lakeland happenings and with the help of their secret mental link, run rings round well-meaning but oblivious adults. Bright children who enjoy words and ideas will love it. This is a great series which manages that rare combination of being both subtly educational and laugh out loud funny. Very much looking forward to the next adventure." Serena Cox, Mother of two, London.
"Warren Cabral has written a charming, tightly woven mystery in The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern, in his Lakeland Mysteries series. The story is set in the quaint town of Cockermouth and follows telepathic sisters Mae and Isla as they investigate a strange illness linked to a local tavern. The plot moves along quickly, and the writing is easily accessible, with the illustrations by Corryn Webb adding a vibrant visual layer. Ideal for young readers and cozy mystery fans, this is a polished and engaging read that balances intrigue with heart." Gaynor Gallant, Teacher, mother of 2, Brighton.
"Warren Cabral's latest book in his humorous and refreshing sleuthing series introduces eccentric Aunt Mary to the family ensemble when she comes to stay. Sisters Mae and Isla Donaldson think their only challenge is putting up with an unwanted guest over Guy Fawkes. But when explosions (that have nothing to do with gunpowder) afflict the beer-drinking villagers of Cockermouth, there's a mystery to be solved. Charming and imaginative, this is fun, fast paced and beautifully written." Catherine Zuill, Editor, Writer & Online Producer, Sydney.
"It was good to be back in the company of Mae and Issy - in a challenging puzzler which turns on a vital piece of art history. My favourite detectives!" John Nicolson, father of three, Berlin.
"I enjoyed The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern. Aunt Mary is quite a character, who lends some comedy to the proceedings! I also love how the girls communicate. Their "power" is not presented like something weird but in a normal way, so the girls seem credible and likeable." Deirdre de Wijze, mother of two, The Netherlands.
- Commended for by LoveReading4Kids 2025
 
ISBN: 9781068604331
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown