Verity Gallant knows she'll never be as pretty and popular as Poppy, her perfect little sister - she doesn't quite fit in. But when a mysterious stranger hands her an ancient red book, everything changes. Verity becomes embroiled in a tale of dark magic and intrigue; she uncovers old rivalries and discovers new friends. Together, she, Henry and Martha explore the secrets stirring in the ancient harbour town of Wellow.
But what will it take to stop a powerful witch hell-bent on revenge?
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A really gripping magical debut with a strong girl heroine - Bookseller
One of those delightful books that just makes you keep on reading one more chapter as you feel compelled to find out what happens . . . Just very occasionally, when you have a new book to read by a new author, you find that you have come across a book that deserves to become a classic. This was definitely one of those books. I loved it all the way through, from start to finish, and would highly recommend it to adventure-loving children, and adults too - Bookbag
Young readers will undoubtedly identify with social outcast Verity. Her character evokes empathy, while her courage and strength of character are also evident. Overall, the book is well-written and young adults will enjoy this compelling story - Hello Magazine Book Blog
As the first in a planned series of four stories abour Verity Gallant, there is enough nautical appeal here to make you hope that future instalments will set full sail - Books For Keeps
There's plenty of magic, folklore and the time-honoured theme of good versus evil in this book, which starts slowly before building up to a fast-paced climax. Good for young teen readers who enjoy fantasy and mystery - Norwich Telegraph
I really enjoyed this book - it always kept me gripped and was a real page turner. It is filled with mystery and adventure, and shows how being popular and having posh clothes isn't everything - what matters is the stuff inside. - Guardian children's books site
Melanie spent her formative years in the sailing town of Cowes, on the Isle of Wight. The tightly-bound community, maritime history and captivating landscapes of the southern Island were all sources of inspiration for the fictional town of Wellow in which Mistress of the Storm is set. Melanie lives in Suffolk, near the seaside town of Southwold, with her husband Lucien and their two sons, Joe and Ben. Mistress of the Storm is her first book.
