Darkmouth: Book 1

Shane Hegarty explodes into the fantasy universe with Darkmouth. An incredible debut. Hilarious and exciting. Terrifying and heart-stopping. Everything a great fantasy series should be. The next big thing is here. Eoin Colfer, author of Artemis Fowl

Hegarty writes surely, unpretentiously and amusingly, drawing up beguiling characters and constructing a plot which simply skips along. Great for primary school children studying myths and legends. The Times

A cracking debut novel, packed with wonderful characters and imaginative gadgets, and the fast-paced action is underpinned with a dry wit. The first in the series should win an enthusiastic readership impatient for the next title. Daily Mail

Hegarty understands the importance of humour for young readers. One of the great pleasures of being scared is the release of laughter that comes afterwards, and Darkmouth is peppered with sly, gentle wit. The Irish Times

Believe the hype. The relationship between the young hero and his father is touching and real. There are touches of Ghostbusters, along with some Bond-like gadgets, plus a rather Dickensian setting (the mist-swirling town of Darkmouth). This fantasy adventure is a stunning debut. Sarah Webb

A thrilling read, full of quiet wit. Emily Drabble, Guardian Children's Books

Spine-chilling totally awesome page turner of a book. Charlotte, age 9 (Lovereading4kids)

The perfect combination of comedy and adventure, which had me enthralled from the front cover to the final fight. A brilliant read! Sam, age 11 (Lovereading4Kids)

Shane Hegarty was the Arts Editor of the Irish Times, but left to be a full time writer after DARKMOUTH sold in a frenzied auction at Bologna Book Fair in 2013. He lives with his family near Dublin.