The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham

by Ryan James Black

Perfect for fans of Lockwood & Co. and Serafina and the Black Cloak, Ryan James Black's debut THE DARK TIMES OF NIMBLE NOTTINGHAM, set during the World War II Blitz blackout, follows a 12-year-old orphan who accidentally unleashes a shadow monster onto the streets of London and must team up with an unlikely assembly of allies to hunt it down

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Fiction, Historical, Historical Fiction, Horror, Childrens

288 pages, Hardcover

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Ryan James Black is a writer from Manitoba, Canada, where he lives with his wife, two kids, and curmudgeonly bulldog, Frank. A history enthusiast with a penchant for horror and the perpetual sense of humor of an eleven-year-old, Ryan writes books that attempt to combine all three: mirth, macabre, and twists of real life stranger-than-fiction history. When not writing Ryan enjoys football, scary movies, and exploring the Great Outdoors with his family.

His debut middle grade historical fantasy, The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham, is forthcoming from Nancy Paulsen Books in August, 2025.

Reviews

[Jenna Lee-Yun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an early draft of this story and I knew from the opening that this book was going to become an instant favorite! Nim, the protagonist, is a character that sticks with you long after you've read the last page. With his wit and charm, he's a kid you can't help but root for! Well, Nim and his trusty furry companion 🤎 The historical setting and world-building are skillfully crafted and the story is absolutely captivating. There are air raids and monsters and street gangs and mystery and hope and healing and so. much. heart. I can't wait to hold a hardcover in my hands and re-read it many times over!

[Rosa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was listed as perfect for fans of Lockwood and Co. I requested and received this copy from NetGalley in exchange for feedback and a review.

This book was captivating in so many ways. The characters introduced were charming and had me on the edge of my seat. Through the story the author created a world you could really immerse yourself in. I saved the last few pages as long as I could as I didn’t want the story to end. I hope to see the author continue with these characters. I will definitely be grabbing a physical copy once this book releases!

[Holly Beets · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jack aka Nim is an orphan boy during WW1 who lives in London. He ran away from his orphanage when they evacuated to the countryside because of the blitz. He is nimble and likes to hangout on roof tops and has exactly 1 friend, Winnie, his dog. He is a thief to survive. He bites off more than he can chew when he accidentally unleashes a monster upon London.
A dark MG historical fantasy.
Nim is layered with emotions and likes to keep his distance from people as a self preservation technique. However, once this monster is released he realizes he actually NEEDS others and deep down wants others too.
This is a book that will introduce WW1 and the bombings of London in a very digestible way for children. The characters are dealing with a literal monster while tackling issues of being unattended street kids. They face: bullying, malnutrition, starvation, unattended injuries, loss of family members, fear and moral dilemmas.
There are also strong themes of friendship, empathy, remorse, strength, endurance, found family and hope.
I enjoyed the ending and how the story was wrapped up. The monster and the situation around it was well thought out and felt seamless, weaving into the already dark WW1 London setting.

Thank you NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Young Readers Group | Nancy Paulsen Books for the advanced copy.
#TheDarkTimesofNimbleNottingham #NetGalley

[rachel x]

"Perfect for fans of Lockwood & Co. and Serafina and the Black Cloak, Black's debut, set during the World War II Blitz blackout, follows a 12-year-old orphan who accidentally unleashes a shadow monster onto the streets of London and must team up with an unlikely assembly of allies to hunt it down"

i love the lockwood & co series so i can't wait for this debut

[Trevor Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham is at its core about hope. It's about resiliency and community, about banding together to confront the horrors of the world, and it's about leaving isolation and loneliness behind in favor of what is right and good. It's a story that reminds us that dark times pass, so long as we never give up on the rotation of the Earth and the reappearance of the sun.

It's for that reason that I absolutely love it. Black has crafted a consummate middle grade horror story, full of darkness and scary stuff, but also tremendous spark and hope and heart. It fundamentally understands that middle grade horror is ultimately about the hope, no matter what else the book might contain.

So yeah, I absolutely loved its thrills and chills. I loved Nim as a character, his friends and his supporting cast; I loved the story of the Aether, how the book frames grief and loss and darkness both literally and symbolically; I love how it employs history to its thematic purpose; and I love that it never loses sight of what it really wants to say about resilience and light.

100% I'm going to be reading everything else Ryan James Black writes. This book was stellar, and I cannot wait to see what he comes up with next.

[Karolay Capellan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes the dark still scares me.
I’ve seen what lurks in it, after all.
But I remind myself that there can be no darkness without light. That for all the evil in the world, there will always be good to match it. always people to stand against it, no matter man, or army, or monster made of shadows.
That even the darkest times can’t last forever.

Easily one of my top three books of 2025; if not the best.

When I first started reading stories at around 11 years old, one of the very first books I picked up was Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens. I know it might seem strange to compare The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham with Oliver Twist, since they don’t have much in common on the surface. But in terms of my own reading experience, I find more similarities between them than most people probably would.

The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham follows Nimble Nottingham, a Northerner surviving on the streets of London during World War II, with only his beloved dog Winnie by his side. After a bomb falls on a creepy mansion, Nimble decides to sneak in, hoping to find food and resources. But instead of supplies, he ends up awakening something far worse. What began as a desperate search for survival turns into a nightmare, as Nimble unleashes a monster locked away in a safe. Now, he must protect the people he loves from this creature, no matter the sacrifices it takes.

The image of an orphan wandering through the streets of London instantly reminded me of Oliver Twist. This book truly has it all: adventure, friendship and found family, the unconditional love of a pet, historical charm, a touch of magic, and the comforting reminder that no matter how tough life gets, there is always good to balance it out.

The writing in this book is, without a doubt, some of the most beautiful middle grade prose I’ve ever read. It’s immersive, often lyrical, and so atmospheric that it completely pulls you in and holds your attention. The story begins at the end of October, and every page drips with that eerie, mysterious autumn vibe—you can almost feel the chill in the air.

I also loved the historical aspect. Since the book is set during World War II, there are moments that feel genuinely sad, with vivid descriptions of bombs falling and the impact on the townspeople. Those historical details really help the atmosphere and ground the story in something very real.

The war was far from over, but people were beginning to remember what life was supposed to be like. Not like the grim, lightless London of the past, but a different London.
A hopeful one.

As for pacing, the beginning may feel a little slow, but once the story takes off, it becomes a non-stop ride of banger chapters.

At its heart, this book is about friendship and love, how far you’re willing to go to save the people who matter most, and what you’re willing to sacrifice for them. It’s so moving, and even brought me to tears at times.

Fans of Oliver Twist might also find something familiar here. Though very different in plot, The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham feels, to me, like a modern Oliver Twist.

Nimble Nottingham has easily become my favorite middle grade hero. And since this story takes place in October and is so steeped in atmosphere, I highly recommend reading it in the autumn. If you’re looking to romanticize the season with cozy yet haunting reads, this one is perfect. I loved it so much, and I’m pretty sure it’s going to end up in my top 5 books of the year.

Thank you so much to Penguin Group, Ryan James Black, and NetGalley for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. I already pre-ordered my copy and can’t wait to re-read it!

[Emma Rizi]

The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham is set during the blitz of WW2. It follows Nim, an orphan and loner, who avoided the evacuation in favour of staying with his only friend: a dog called Winnie. An opportunity to scavenge in the remains of a house destroyed in the Blitz sees Nim unwittingly releasing a monster. The story follows Nim's heroic deeds as he uncovers the mystery of the monster - a living shadow. Will he be able to uncover the truth and save the children of London?
This book is ideal for horror and mystery fans aged 10-12. Black's attention to detail adds authenticity to the story that helps make the story all the more chilling - especially if you're just a little worried about the shadows underneath your bed!

[Jen Nishi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! And it deserves a galaxy of stars. The tense setting of London during the blitz emphasized the threat of the darkness and the monster all while underscoring the sense of loneliness that permeates the narrative. Nim is a character who is rough around the edges and has built up impenetrable walls around his heart but is so endearing. The monster is both terrifying in that it cannot be seen in the darkness yet because of this, I don’t think it’s too scary for the 9+ age group. I will be exploring this one with my intermediates book club at school. They are very eager to read it. Solidly atmospheric, well plotted with great dynamic characters, a creepy monster, and lots of heart, this book is a fantastic addition to any library and or bookshelf.

[Dave Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
In one word: delightful.
Loved the London setting. Reading the bit at the end about the real world inspirations for the story was a lot of fun.
I also appreciated the imaginative take that blends the Black Death and 1940's England with myth and legend, giving Death (or the Darkness) a personified presence as the main threat in this adventerous story that boasts a good pace and lots of action.

Who knew there was a real world gang of underground teenagers in London at this time (I didn't).

The book is written for a teenage audience, and reads well as a horror story targeting that demographic. But as a quick and breezy read I don't think it discriminates. Especially if you are fond of stories that feature a relationship between a boy and his dog. Count me in.

Lastly: this ones a great chance to support and celebrate a local winnipeg author.

[Zach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is filled with heart, wit, humor and enough spooky vibes to send a shiver down your spine.

Following the adventures of unaccompanied minor Jack “Nim” Nottingham and his desperate attempts to stop a monster that prowls the shadowy depths of a war-torn London, this book kept me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end! An incredible debut from Ryan James Black!

[SS · Rating 5 out of 5]

The kind of book you want to read in the dead of night under the covers, a flashlight your only protection against the dark!

Loved this so much! Recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a spookier read this fall!

[D. Field · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. A shadow monster is terrorizing London during the Blitz. Nim, an orphan, is determined, to solve the mystery, kill the monster, and save his dog and his friends. I give it a 4.5.

[Karin Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Jennifer Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivid, suspenseful, gripping! What a wild ride. I would recommend this book for all ages!

[Christiana Doucette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in London during the Blitz, this fast-paced adventure has Nim facing off with a shadow monster he's accidentally unleashed on the town. As more and more kids succumb to the shadow, Nim learns that his wits alone are not enough, he's going to need help.

Those who enjoyed Sam Subity's Dragon Wings with dragons at Dunkirk, may be the perfect audience for this middle grade historical fantasy!

[Mark Buxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

What worked:
Nimble Nottingham has been alone for as long as he can remember. Even when surrounded by other kids at the orphanage, he’d rather perch on the roof by himself than be teased and bullied. Now, he only cares for himself and his partner Winnie, a scraggly, one-eyed dog he found. Gangs of other homeless kids don’t want him, and that suits him just fine. He’s “not very good at people”, although he tolerates a tag-along kid named Mouse. Nim doesn’t want help from anyone, but he slowly learns that he doesn’t need to live that way. However, it also means there are more lives for him to worry about. Nim’s character narrates his first-person account of the incredible events.
The author is a master of description, and readers are immersed in a creepy 1940s London. The countdown to October 31 is a fortunate coincidence. The book opens with Nim preparing to enter the “gloom at Gravenhurst Manor”. “… darkness waited… Even moonlight knew better than to linger.” Hidden doors pop up in different buildings, and Nim knows hidden doors “always-always- led to treasure.” He unlocks a secret safe and the “reek whooshed out”, and he finds a “greasy, flickering black candle”. Nim’s first descriptions of the shadow monster “splatting like wet meat” are like “a lump of liquefying tar… a bubbling inky puddle”. Young readers will be unnerved as it lurks in the darkness, waiting to pounce on its next victim.
Some books have satisfying resolutions, while others don’t fully resolve all of the issues. This book teases readers, as Nim is ready to stop the shadow monster, only to have something unexpected happen to keep the threat going. The problem isn’t solved even after the creature is captured. Then, a conflict arises when characters disagree over what should be done with the shadow monster. Pieces of information are slowly shared, and Nim is frustratingly angry when he realizes he’s not getting the whole picture. However, his haste to stop the creature blinds him to the full truth when he should have his eyes wide open.
What didn’t work as well:
The shadow monster’s demise is predictable, as Nim immediately realizes its sensitivity to light. However, the details of its defeat aren’t known until the end, when the author builds to an inevitable showdown.
The final verdict:
Young readers enjoy scary stories, so they should love this book. The author’s skillful ability to evoke emotions and mental images will captivate all readers, and I highly recommend you give this book a shot!

[Ariel K · Rating 4 out of 5]

First thank you to NetGalley, Nancy Paulsen Books and Ryan J Black for allowing me to read this ARC of The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham

I have to admit, I got a little lost in the character's voice at first (it just felt a little off on the page). But when I hunted down that short reading on YouTube, everything clicked immediately. By the way, the person reading the audiobook (I think Andrew Fallaize?) has a great voice! It's that kind of voice that has so enthusiasm and character developed that he made the entire first chapter jump off the page. Excellent choice for a spooky historical adventure storytelling! His narration definitely helped me find the voices for the characters in my head; I want to go back to Audible and get the whole book to listen to!

The story is told through an orphaned child’s eyes named Nim/Nimble (I love his name) as he experiences the bombing of WW2’s London Blitz with his similarly lost boy ‘tag a long’ friend Mouse and Winnie, his one eyed street dog. The era and travels the boys live is already a dark period, but the story turns “spooky” as they enter a shell of a once was mansion and accidentally release a shadow monster into London. This story made me think of the movie Pan’s Labyrinth quite a bit because the descriptions and stories seem like how a child might almost dissociate from reality and turn reality into a mysterious fiction that ‘could be solved’ to answer for reality…

I’d definitely recommend this to students in higher elementary to middle school who were into eerie or scary Historical Fiction. Plus, I saw that R.L. Stine even praised it—and that’s high regards!

[Alexis Kressner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an incredible concept for a story — a haunt within history. Set in Blitz-era London, The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham layers real historical fear with supernatural horror. As if war-torn London weren’t dangerous enough, an ancient shadow monster is unleashed, spreading a plague-like sickness and preying primarily on the city’s most vulnerable children.
Nimble “Nim” Nottingham is an orphan simply trying to survive with what little he has left. Nim is immediately lovable, and his fierce devotion to his dog, Winnie, brings an emotional depth that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved a pet. As the danger escalates, Nim takes it upon himself to uncover the truth behind the monster and stop it once and for all.
What truly shines is Nim’s character arc. Watching him grow from a guarded loner into someone willing to accept help hits deeply, especially given the harsh realities of his daily life. The supporting characters add warmth and balance, making the emotional beats land even harder.
Ryan James Black has written a beautifully unique haunt within a horror — one that blends fear, history, and heart seamlessly. With a strong beginning, a hard middle, and an extremely satisfying resolution, this is a compelling story of courage, connection, and survival. Pick this up if you’re looking for a classic character arc wrapped in atmospheric, emotionally resonant horror.

[Sails and Scales · Rating 3 out of 5]

If World War II bombings and orphaned children in London trying to survive isn’t sad and scary enough, Nimble Nottingham also has to deal with monsters that are stealing souls.

The beginning of the book is a little slow, but the atmospheric descriptions of a spooky, danger-ridden London create a lot of interest and vibes.

I didn’t feel like some of the characters worked particularly well. The creature’s ending was predictable, and the adult character seems to flip-flop for the sake of the story rather than because of who he is as a person.

Young readers who like scary stories may enjoy this book a lot, particularly with the vivid descriptions of the setting. It didn't have enough depth or characterization for me to love it, but I think a lot of people will.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[tara_l · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this middle grade adventure. I thought a monster that lives in darkness set during the London blackouts of World War II (when the city literally went dark at night to avoid bombings) was really clever and unique. I will admit that the description of how the blackout created true darkness could have been stronger to make it more atmospheric, but overall I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to many readers looking for a little bit of an adventurous story.

The author did get me a little emotional at the end during one part. That's a a compliment, as it means they made me care about the characters.

I didn't find it particularly scary, which is great if you want a little bit of a darker, slightly scary adventure, without having to be afraid to go to sleep after.

[Tiara Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y’all know how you start reading a book, and from the first chapter you get that restless excitement that comes with knowing, “This is IT!” That you’ve stumbled upon a book that is not only good, but a CLASSIC, like Percy Jackson, Coraline, City of Ghosts, Artemis Fowl. The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham IS that book! The characters are superbly drawn with a charming voice that is at turns humorous and dark, and the WWII London setting is a character in itself: moody, dangerous, and full of twists and turns. I promise you, if you’re looking for a rip-roaring good time, this BOOK is the ticket to a ride you will not soon forget.

[Kit · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always thrilled to find middle grade books that kids will genuinely get excited about -especially when they blend real historical events with high-interest action and adventure. The Dark Times of Nimble Nottingham by Ryan James Black does exactly that! Set during the World War II Blitz blackout, it combines the tension of wartime London with a thrilling fantasy twist. Nimble’s accidental unleashing of a shadow monster sets off a fast-paced, eerie adventure that feels perfect for kids who crave action and adventure. It’s spooky, action-packed, and rooted just enough in history to make young readers curious to learn more.

[Karen Reeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect dark and spooky book set in the perfect time period for it! What person didn’t at one time or another fear the dark? The dark is uncertain. The dark is unknown. The dark makes the perfect villain. The Dark Times of Nimble Notthingham reminds me of one of my favorite Dr. Who episodes. I love how the author took something so common, a shadow, and wove a story with unexpected twists that left me looking over my shoulder as I walked home in the dark. I look forward to reading Nim’s story again while I wait for more books from Ryan James Black.

[aNeedleinMyBookstack | Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful book!

I appreciated the historical references which featured the heroic gangs of orphaned children who helped save lives during the Blitz.

The book’s monster serves as an excellent metaphor for evil and darkness, drawing inspiration from old folklore stories.

This book will appeal to kids who enjoy fast-paced adventure, conquering fears, and sacrificing personal needs to help others.

[Sara Shacter · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a page-turning, spine-tingling, heartfelt story of monsters, war, and friendship, then this is the book for you. Black has created a truly terrifying monster, prowling WWII London during the Blitz. Self-reliant orphan Nim must open his heart and accept help in his quest to stop the soul-sucking creature. Surprising twists and turns make this tale impossible to put down. Highly recommend!

[Celeste Dador · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ensemble cast and storytelling skills of this author are five-stars! If you're looking for a suspenseful mystery, magic and historic vibes through the eyes of a loveable group of unlikely friends this is your jam!

[Mary Averling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clever and courageous as its plucky hero, THE DARK TIMES OF NIMBLE NOTTINGHAM is an explosive debut. Heart-pounding peril? Perfectly peculiar characters? Ghoulish mysteries buttoned into the gloom of Blitz-Era London? Sign me up!

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so fortunate I won this book through Goodread or I might not have read it. I loved it. I suggest it for anyone any age that like horror/fantasy books. The characters are well developed, and the setting of World War II London was brilliant. I cannot wait to read something else by this author!

[Shane Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a fantastic read. great suspense, wonderful storytelling. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a thrilling adventure. I think I'm going to read this yearly around Halloween. good book.

[Stan Yan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastically visual historical fiction fantasy horror. Ryan's world building really sets an immersive mood.