A real gripping, engaging story, with a nice heart of darkness.' - A.F. Twelve-year-old Jimmy and his little brother Ronnie are evacuated to the Welsh mining village of Llanbryn at the start of the Second World War. I loved it with all my heart.' - Liz Hyder It’s a debut novel from Lesley Parr, but told with quiet confidence, combining page-turning mystery with tender human drama.

A celebration of kindness and friendship at a time of upheaval, it's gripping, heart-breaking and yet full of hope. 'Evocative and heartfelt, The Valley of Lost Secrets already reads like a classic. Archaeologists investigate the truth behind forgotten. An investigation at a tomb could reveal the secrets of a lost kingdom. This story is quietly brutal and brilliantly heartfelt. A new archaeological search seeks to uncover the mysteries behind an ancient, royal necropolis containing Egypts most. It is refreshing to read historical fiction for children offering the reader a chance to experience different realities. 'With echoes of Carrie's War, and Goodnight Mister Tom, Parr brings her own fresh voice to what already feels like a wartime classic.

'Atmospheric, direct and gripping, with a superbly assured narrative voice, this book is woven through with powerful themes: grief, belonging and making peace with the past.' - The Guardian This appealing book is about losses healed, lies uncovered, cruelty defeated and goodness rewarded.' - The Sunday Times

Valley of the lost secrets