This novel places the Scottish mythological creature of the Kelpie within a contemporary, realistic setting in New Zealand. When 13-year-old Ella curses a boy who is bullying her on the school bus, she can’t help but think it’s her fault when he disappears. Then a new boy appears in town, both enticing and strange, who seems to know a lot about Ella.

Ella’s family run a horse-trekking business and she has a special relationship with her beloved pony, Magpie. Ella’s Scottish granny has first-hand experience of the Kelpie, which stole her family back in Scotland. It appears to people as both a young boy and in its true form, a terrifying giant horse that comes from the water. It seems unbelievable, but the Kelpie may just have followed Ella’s granny around the world to continue the family curse. Ella’s family will need to confront the Kelpie one final time, or the children of their town will never be safe.

Filled with evocative landscapes and stunning horses, this exciting story also has the classic feel of The Dark Is Rising and other tales of ancient magic come to life. A wonderful read for ages 10+.