The Doomsday Machine by Catherine Webb

The Blurb On The Back:

London, 1865. There are many mysteries in this world that are yet to be resolved. Some of them, man was not meant to know ...

Scientist, inventor and occasional sleuth, Horatio Lyle is a man of science - a man of reason. As such, he does not care for the mysterious Tseiqin and the strange, mystical enigma they represent. But when news reaches him of a plot to remove them - through the simple expedient of mass murder - well, that presents a problem for a man of moral fortitude. A decent man. A man like Horatio Lyle ...

Leading his young friends, Tess and Thomas, and his faithful hound, Tate, into a series of the most appalling dangers, Lyle leaps to the rescue of his mortal enemies. But when the dust clears and the menace has been confronted, there remains one rather pressing question for occassional Special Constable Horatio Lyle: who's going to rescue him ...?

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The Verdict:

This is a really enjoyable read with some fascinating characters and a good set up for further adventures and mysteries to be solved. Definitely worth a look if you're looking for something entertaining and well constructed.

Skulduggery Pleasant: Playing With Fire by Derek Landy

The Blurb On The Back:

You know how it is - you think you've saved the world, and then ANOTHER evil villain turns up with an unbeatable monster and starts breaking things.

Oh yes, and you've got a skull for a head. A thirteen-year-old girl for a sidekick. And no clue what to do.

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The Verdict:

This is one of the best YA series I've read in a long time - witty, moving and fast-paced - it's a book that I would recommend to anyone looking for an entertaining read.