Title: The Lost Property Office
Author: James R. Hannibal
First published November 8, 2016
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.78
Overview
In James R. Hannibal’s mesmerizing middle-grade novel, The Lost Property Office, embark on an exciting journey through time, riddled with enigmas, hidden treasures, and a hint of enchantment.
Jack Buckles, a thirteen-year-old boy, has a unique talent for locating lost items. However, his expertise is put to the test when his father vanishes without a trace in London.
As it turns out, his father was a part of a secret society of detectives who have been serving the crown for centuries, and now it is Jack’s turn to take up the mantle. But to find his father, he must first find the Ember, a mysterious object that holds a secret from the Great Fire of London.
Will Jack succeed in his quest and save his father, or will he fail, and his talent for finding things be for naught? Find out in this enthralling tale of adventure, mystery, and magic.
About the Author
Meet James R. Hannibal, an accomplished author with a diverse range of writing expertise.
With a background as a former stealth bomber pilot and drone pilot, James is well-versed in the world of action and secrecy. He has experienced being shot at, captured by surface-to-air missile systems, and even played a role in the apprehension of High Value Targets.
James’ writing spans across various genres including children’s fiction, spy and military thrillers, and young adult fantasy. His award-winning work is a testament to his skill and passion for storytelling.
Editoral Review
James R. Hannibals novel, The Lost Property Office, is an enthralling and imaginative addition to the middle-grade adventure genre.
Hannibal is a former stealth pilot who brings his expertise to bear in this action-packed tale, which was first published on November 8, 2016. Set in Londons bustling St. Pancras railway station, the story follows thirteen-year-old Jack Buckles, an orphan with a knack for unlocking any lock.
When his father disappears, Jack is convinced that the key to finding him lies in the lost property office of the railway station, where lost and forgotten items are kept. With the help of a resourceful young girl and Tom Carter, a seasoned investigator for the Lost Property Office, Jack embarks on a perilous adventure to track down his father and unravel the mysteries behind the strange objects that seem to hold the key to his father’s disappearance.
Hannibal skillfully weaves together historical elements and real-life locations to create a rich and engaging world for his characters to explore. Through vivid descriptions of Londons iconic landmarks and the inner workings of a railway station, readers are transported to a magical world of lost treasures and hidden secrets.
Meanwhile, the unusual objects that Jack and his friends encounter on their quest add a fantastical element that is sure to capture the imagination of young readers. One of the strengths of The Lost Property Office is its well-drawn characters.
From the plucky and determined Jack to the street-smart and resourceful Gwen and the enigmatic investigator Tom Carter, each character is fully realized and adds depth to the story. Despite their different backgrounds and motivations, the three protagonists share a common sense of determination and loyalty that makes them easy to root for.
The novel’s pacing is another strong point. Hannibal deftly balances action and suspense with quieter moments of introspection and character development.
The result is a smooth and engaging narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. At times, the novel can feel a bit formulaic, and certain plot points are somewhat predictable.
However, Hannibal’s skillful writing and attention to detail keep the story fresh and exciting. Overall, The Lost Property Office is a delightful and well-crafted middle-grade adventure that is sure to captivate young readers.
With its unique blend of history, mystery, and magic, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure story. 4/5
