The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Drama and Danger (The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries, Book 1)

A thrilling middle grade mystery series, perfect for fans of Robin Steven’s Murder Most Unladylike. Set in eighteenth-century London, with all the fun and zest of Hamilton and inspired by real Black British historical figures.

Twelve-year-olds Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle are from different worlds – Lizzie lives in Westminster in her dad’s tea shop, while Belle is an heiress being brought up by her aunt and uncle at grand Kenwood House – but they both share a love of solving mysteries.

And when their eyes meet in the audience of the Drury Lane theatre one night, both girls are sure they’ve seen something suspicious on stage.

Lizzie and Belle soon find themselves on the trail of a mystery – and becoming best friends. But can they work out what’s going on in time to prevent a murder?

Robin Stevens meets Hamilton – with themes of friendship, girl power and mystery

Featuring real historical characters – Dido Belle and Ignatius Sancho

The project was developed by Jasmine Richards at Storymix, who create pathways for UK BME authors and illustrators into the creation of children's books. Their mission is to create heroes for every child, and stories where every child can be a hero.

Joanna is a freelance writer and educator and regularly works for the British Library, where she runs workshops and school visits, using clues and documents to unravel the real mysteries of the past and help children find a way in to history

Competition: a;the;murder most unladylike;mystery and mayhem;once upon a crime;death sets sail;crater lake;the secret lake;top marks for murder;skandar;good turn. katherine woodfine;catherine Johnson;robin stevens;serena patel; dominique valente;sharna jackson;jennifer killick;karen inglis;AF Steadman;MG Leonard