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The Golden Butterfly
The Golden Butterfly danced in the air, beautiful and impossible, yet there before their eyes. Then The Magnificent Marko flicked his wand again. There was a shower of sparks, a bang and ... The Golden Butterfly vanished.
It's 1897 and since The Magnificent Marko dramatically departed the stage, no magician has come close to performing a trick as spectacular as The Golden Butterfly. With her grandfather gone, Luciana feels that the world has lost its wonder. Then the imposing leader of the Grand Society of Magicians appears, searching for something belonging to Marko, and Luciana is drawn into a world of danger and deception. As she battles to protect her grandfather's greatest legacy, can she distinguish reality from illusion?
A dazzling tale of bravery and friendship in this fast-paced historical adventure for fans of Katherine Woodfine, COGHEART and THE NOWHERE EMPORIUM.
It's 1897 and since The Magnificent Marko dramatically departed the stage, no magician has come close to performing a trick as spectacular as The Golden Butterfly. With her grandfather gone, Luciana feels that the world has lost its wonder. Then the imposing leader of the Grand Society of Magicians appears, searching for something belonging to Marko, and Luciana is drawn into a world of danger and deception. As she battles to protect her grandfather's greatest legacy, can she distinguish reality from illusion?
A dazzling tale of bravery and friendship in this fast-paced historical adventure for fans of Katherine Woodfine, COGHEART and THE NOWHERE EMPORIUM.
- GenresMiddle GradeMystery
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 2, 2019
About the author
Sharon Gosling
54 books121 followersSharon Gosling began her career in entertainment journalism, writing for magazines in the science fiction and fantasy genre, before moving on to write tie-in books for TV shows such as "Stargate" and the 'reimagined' "Battlestar Galactica."
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 28, 2019
4.5 Stars
Wow! The Golden Butterfly was an entrancing, gorgeous, simply stunning work of MG fiction. Everything about it had me mesmerised and caught up in this beautiful world that had been created. I was absorbed into the story almost instantly and because of this I found that I couldn't put the book and devoured it in less than 24 hours.
The plot was so well pieced together, and as I am a sucker for MG mysteries at the moment I knew from the start that I was going to be taken on one hell of an adventure. The mystery itself, for me was quite easy to figure out but for a younger audience I can imagine it would be extremely thrilling to work out the conundrum behind The Golden Butterfly. It is a fast paced plot but you don't feel like anything is rushed or skimmed over. In my opinion it is perfectly paced for the story that is being told. Younger readers won't become bored when reading and will, in fact be rather excited to carry on reading.
The setting was just incredible. I am starting to read more books with historical elements within them and I loved the element of Victorian England that was added to The Golden Butterfly. The detail was so intricate that you could almost feel like you were being transported to 1897. What also stood out to me in The Golden Butterfly was the topic surrounding women's roles in society in that time era. We read about women only being allowed to be magician's assistants and ultimately being seen as second class citizens. Throughout the book we see women and girls try to change this stigma and it is really refreshing to see some girl power in MG fiction. It isn't seen often enough in this genre and I feel it would appeal to many young women.
Luciana, as a main character, was one that I instantly clicked with. She was not prepared to conform to what society thought she should be. She wanted adventure, she wanted excitement and she wanted to prove what she could truly do and be. Her determination was admirable and she could soon be a role model for young girls everywhere. Luciana's relationships with her grandmother, best friend and other important characters were all relevant to the storyline and none of them felt forced. Fantastic character development was shown throughout The Golden Butterfly.
The only thing that I found a little bit frustrating with The Golden Butterfly was the ending. It ended rather abruptly and although this could leave doors open for a sequel (let's hope so!). I did want to know just a tiny bit more about what happened to some key characters. This was my only gripe, as the rest was just spectacular.
The Golden Butterfly was a beautiful read that had me charmed with its magic, wonder and amazement. It is probably one of the best MG books I have so far this year and I feel that it is going to pretty hard to beat.
Wow! The Golden Butterfly was an entrancing, gorgeous, simply stunning work of MG fiction. Everything about it had me mesmerised and caught up in this beautiful world that had been created. I was absorbed into the story almost instantly and because of this I found that I couldn't put the book and devoured it in less than 24 hours.
The plot was so well pieced together, and as I am a sucker for MG mysteries at the moment I knew from the start that I was going to be taken on one hell of an adventure. The mystery itself, for me was quite easy to figure out but for a younger audience I can imagine it would be extremely thrilling to work out the conundrum behind The Golden Butterfly. It is a fast paced plot but you don't feel like anything is rushed or skimmed over. In my opinion it is perfectly paced for the story that is being told. Younger readers won't become bored when reading and will, in fact be rather excited to carry on reading.
The setting was just incredible. I am starting to read more books with historical elements within them and I loved the element of Victorian England that was added to The Golden Butterfly. The detail was so intricate that you could almost feel like you were being transported to 1897. What also stood out to me in The Golden Butterfly was the topic surrounding women's roles in society in that time era. We read about women only being allowed to be magician's assistants and ultimately being seen as second class citizens. Throughout the book we see women and girls try to change this stigma and it is really refreshing to see some girl power in MG fiction. It isn't seen often enough in this genre and I feel it would appeal to many young women.
Luciana, as a main character, was one that I instantly clicked with. She was not prepared to conform to what society thought she should be. She wanted adventure, she wanted excitement and she wanted to prove what she could truly do and be. Her determination was admirable and she could soon be a role model for young girls everywhere. Luciana's relationships with her grandmother, best friend and other important characters were all relevant to the storyline and none of them felt forced. Fantastic character development was shown throughout The Golden Butterfly.
The only thing that I found a little bit frustrating with The Golden Butterfly was the ending. It ended rather abruptly and although this could leave doors open for a sequel (let's hope so!). I did want to know just a tiny bit more about what happened to some key characters. This was my only gripe, as the rest was just spectacular.
The Golden Butterfly was a beautiful read that had me charmed with its magic, wonder and amazement. It is probably one of the best MG books I have so far this year and I feel that it is going to pretty hard to beat.
July 6, 2019
The novel premise of illusions and magicians instantly grabs me. As the book suggested several times, illusionists and magicians are not as popular as they used to be. There was a time when there were numerous TV programs with magicians. From what the book says, there was a time when magicians wowed the audience on stage.
The opening chapter throws us into the wondrous world of being in the presence of a magician on stage, those words of 'how did he do that' on our lips or our minds. The author skilfully engineers her story to get us to root for the main character; the beloved grandfather's death followed immediately by a high-ranking official's threat to destroy their lives. Unless they give up this secret item belonging to the Magnificent Marko.
Hence begins the adventure of finding the mystery item and trying to make sense of what it is. One location, one hiding place, one gadget. Identify the location, find the hiding place and you'll see the gadget or a clue to the next place. The hiding places and gadgets described are fascinating; I'd love to see them in animation or a movie. The hiding places are ingenious like the Japanese puzzle boxes.
Although this book is set in the last 19th century, the current wave of feminism is strong here. There is a clear message for girls to fight for equality, that girls are able to magic even though society does not accept it.
A good read.
The opening chapter throws us into the wondrous world of being in the presence of a magician on stage, those words of 'how did he do that' on our lips or our minds. The author skilfully engineers her story to get us to root for the main character; the beloved grandfather's death followed immediately by a high-ranking official's threat to destroy their lives. Unless they give up this secret item belonging to the Magnificent Marko.
Hence begins the adventure of finding the mystery item and trying to make sense of what it is. One location, one hiding place, one gadget. Identify the location, find the hiding place and you'll see the gadget or a clue to the next place. The hiding places and gadgets described are fascinating; I'd love to see them in animation or a movie. The hiding places are ingenious like the Japanese puzzle boxes.
Although this book is set in the last 19th century, the current wave of feminism is strong here. There is a clear message for girls to fight for equality, that girls are able to magic even though society does not accept it.
A good read.
May 4, 2019
A brilliant tale of magic, friendship, family and badass women. This book is a deliciously enchanting scavenger hunt across London to keep a memory, and magic, alive!
April 21, 2019
I'm so glad that I got sent this book for review; I'd not heard of it before and it's now one of my go-to middle grade mystery books. I adored every second of The Golden Butterfly! This is one of the best middle grade books I've read in recent years.
In The Golden Butterfly, Sharon draws together all the things that make recent middle grade mysteries so special; a strong female lead, an intricate mystery full of twists and turns and a brilliant setting, in this case Victorian England. I was hooked from page one and instantly liked Luciana as a main character. I liked how determined and forward-thinking she is.
I'd love to revisit Luciana and her friends and family and find out what happens next for them. Towards the end of the book, the points about women and their role in society towards the end of the Victorian era make for an interesting discussion and I'd love to see this explored further with these characters, so I'm definitely hoping for a sequel! That said, this is a brilliant standalone that's fast-paced and gripping and I can't recommend it highly enough.
In The Golden Butterfly, Sharon draws together all the things that make recent middle grade mysteries so special; a strong female lead, an intricate mystery full of twists and turns and a brilliant setting, in this case Victorian England. I was hooked from page one and instantly liked Luciana as a main character. I liked how determined and forward-thinking she is.
I'd love to revisit Luciana and her friends and family and find out what happens next for them. Towards the end of the book, the points about women and their role in society towards the end of the Victorian era make for an interesting discussion and I'd love to see this explored further with these characters, so I'm definitely hoping for a sequel! That said, this is a brilliant standalone that's fast-paced and gripping and I can't recommend it highly enough.
April 9, 2019
This is an absorbing, richly-detailed historical adventure set in the late Victorian period which enthralled me from the start.
Luciana is grieving the loss of her beloved Grandfather, the Magnificent Marko, when Thursby, the Master of the Grand Society of Magicians turns up on the day of his funeral demanding to search their home. Luciana realises that he is searching for the key behind her Grandfather’s Golden Butterfly illusion, but she is determined to find it first. So begins her adventure into the theatres of London alongside her childhood friend, Charley.
Luciana is a girl outside her time who is not prepared to conform to the norms of Victorian society. She wants excitement and adventure, and protecting her Grandfather’s legacy provides her with just this.
This story cleverly weaves together a fast-paced intriguing adventure with social issues related to women’s role in society. Luciana, who is resourceful and determined, has no intention of letting society dictate to her as she searches out more and more pieces of the puzzle leading to the Golden Butterfly. However, the more she finds out … the more questions are raised. Where do her nightmares about fires come from? What does her Grandfather really want her to discover? Will Thursby’s all-consuming desire for the Golden Butterfly lead to the destruction of Luciana’s dreams?
This story is a spectacular jigsaw which, when finished, reveals an incredible family history, steeped in sacrifice and love.
I would highly recommend this book to children of 9+.
Thank you to NetGalley and Stripes Publishing for an e-ARC of this book.
Luciana is grieving the loss of her beloved Grandfather, the Magnificent Marko, when Thursby, the Master of the Grand Society of Magicians turns up on the day of his funeral demanding to search their home. Luciana realises that he is searching for the key behind her Grandfather’s Golden Butterfly illusion, but she is determined to find it first. So begins her adventure into the theatres of London alongside her childhood friend, Charley.
Luciana is a girl outside her time who is not prepared to conform to the norms of Victorian society. She wants excitement and adventure, and protecting her Grandfather’s legacy provides her with just this.
This story cleverly weaves together a fast-paced intriguing adventure with social issues related to women’s role in society. Luciana, who is resourceful and determined, has no intention of letting society dictate to her as she searches out more and more pieces of the puzzle leading to the Golden Butterfly. However, the more she finds out … the more questions are raised. Where do her nightmares about fires come from? What does her Grandfather really want her to discover? Will Thursby’s all-consuming desire for the Golden Butterfly lead to the destruction of Luciana’s dreams?
This story is a spectacular jigsaw which, when finished, reveals an incredible family history, steeped in sacrifice and love.
I would highly recommend this book to children of 9+.
Thank you to NetGalley and Stripes Publishing for an e-ARC of this book.
June 20, 2019
I loved this story from beginning to end. Aysha Kala is a great reader and it was a pleasure listening to her voice telling me this beautiful tale of magic, friendship, loss and growing up in a world that tells you you can’t succeed in the thing you’re best at. I loved Luciana’s defiance and refusal to give up even when the odds are stacked against her. How she’s able to overcome her fear for something she believes in, lives and ultimately decides she doesn’t want to live without even though she could have an easier and more comfortable life if she conformed to society’s expectations. I love the big and small twists and turns and the ultimately big message: in a world where people have to hide who they are, all it takes is a small flame and a handful of people to start fighting for what is right and to pass that message and opportunity on to others. You don’t let the bullies win without a fight. And who knows, maybe they aren’t as strong as they want you to believe. (Also, the friendship between Lucians and Charley is wonderful!)
I can’t wait to pass this on - to anyone really but especially to young readers who need exactly this kind of positivity!!!
I can’t wait to pass this on - to anyone really but especially to young readers who need exactly this kind of positivity!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2019
If you loved the frantic code and puzzle breaking escape across cities of The Da Vinci Code, if you loved the Hugh Jackman/ Christian Bale film The Prestige, are interested in stories that promote STEM pursuits, and you want a strong female cast then you MUST READ The Golden Butterfly!
The writing is incredibly immersive and you are clearly orientated in the dismal drizzle of wintery Victorian England and immediately care for Luciana and Charley and there were tears shed by the end with the revelations. Here were hints and nudges clearly written in but like any good magic trick Gosling keeps the glittery distraction until she is ready to reveal the plot developments in such a powerful journey towards feminism and social empathy and one that may inspire many children to consider the inequalities in the world around them.
I loved this book so much!! It ticks so many boxes; historical, coming of age and revealing of secrets, puzzles and mysteries both physical and metaphorical and wrapped up in the context of stage magic.
I immediately ordered An earlier book by the author The Diamond Thief.
The writing is incredibly immersive and you are clearly orientated in the dismal drizzle of wintery Victorian England and immediately care for Luciana and Charley and there were tears shed by the end with the revelations. Here were hints and nudges clearly written in but like any good magic trick Gosling keeps the glittery distraction until she is ready to reveal the plot developments in such a powerful journey towards feminism and social empathy and one that may inspire many children to consider the inequalities in the world around them.
I loved this book so much!! It ticks so many boxes; historical, coming of age and revealing of secrets, puzzles and mysteries both physical and metaphorical and wrapped up in the context of stage magic.
I immediately ordered An earlier book by the author The Diamond Thief.
May 11, 2019
This is the story of a girl named Luciana, whose grandfather Marko has just died, as she tries to learn more about his mysterious and sudden exit from stage magic and protect his most acclaimed trick (the titular Golden Butterfly) from malevolent forces. I adored Luciana as she was so strong-minded and determined, and I really liked her friend Charley too- their friendship was so lovely. The supporting characters who help them along the way were fabulous too. I also really enjoyed the writing style, which brought every setting and the story in general to life. The mystery element of this was wonderful too, as it moved at a great pace, kept me gripped throughout and all came to a super satisfying conclusion. This is a truly wonderful historical adventure full to the brim with magic, mystery and magnificent women. 4.5/5
February 12, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book, Miss 9 did borrow it herself but we came to the conclusion it was a little bit advanced for her, but it's probably suitable for older kids.
I loved taking a "magical" adventure with Luciana and her friend Charley, uncovering the mystery of her grandfather and the legacy of his final act "The Golden Butterfly".
I think the adult in me wanted more from this book (fantasy and bit of romance) but I had to keep telling myself it's a children's book.
The characters, setting and plot were done well, so much so I think it would be one of those books I would eventually read again.
Overall it was a beautiful story, full of friendship, family, secrets, mystery. I will definitely get my daughter to read once she is a bit older.
Our copy of The Golden Butterfly was borrowed from the library.
I loved taking a "magical" adventure with Luciana and her friend Charley, uncovering the mystery of her grandfather and the legacy of his final act "The Golden Butterfly".
I think the adult in me wanted more from this book (fantasy and bit of romance) but I had to keep telling myself it's a children's book.
The characters, setting and plot were done well, so much so I think it would be one of those books I would eventually read again.
Overall it was a beautiful story, full of friendship, family, secrets, mystery. I will definitely get my daughter to read once she is a bit older.
Our copy of The Golden Butterfly was borrowed from the library.
May 3, 2022
After reading Gosling's "The Diamond Thief" trilogy I searched for other books written by her. Wow! I was captivated. The setting, the time period, the mystery, the enchantment!
England 1898. 15 year-old Luciana Cattaneo is the granddaughter of the great magician, The Magnificent Marko, who was forced into retirement a year ago by the leader of the Society for Magicians, Mr. Thursby, an evil man. He performed only once a trick called The Golden Butterfly that was so exquisite that Mr. Thursby wants it. Now Marko has died and Lucaina found clues to the trick. The clues lead her and her friend Charley to London where alone they follow a dangerous trail stalked by Thursby. The clues are unique. I always loved puzzles.
England 1898. 15 year-old Luciana Cattaneo is the granddaughter of the great magician, The Magnificent Marko, who was forced into retirement a year ago by the leader of the Society for Magicians, Mr. Thursby, an evil man. He performed only once a trick called The Golden Butterfly that was so exquisite that Mr. Thursby wants it. Now Marko has died and Lucaina found clues to the trick. The clues lead her and her friend Charley to London where alone they follow a dangerous trail stalked by Thursby. The clues are unique. I always loved puzzles.
April 9, 2019
A perfectly paced and wonderfully written tale of mystery and magic which reminded me of Peter Bunzl's COGHEART, but with a charm all its own, this is an excellent, absorbing and unputdownable story from Sharon Gosling. The Golden Butterfly conjurs up a world of stage magicians, rivalry, magical illusions and family secrets, asking some big and important questions about gender equality and opportunity along the way. Luciana and Charley are wonderful creations, characters to really root for in a story packed with memorable players, and I'm sure this is a book I'll return to with great enjoyment. A fantastic read!
November 8, 2019
Although a story about family secrets, magic and mystery this is also a strongly feminist novel. Set in 1897 Luciana learns early on in life that she will be barred from many opportunities in her life because of her gender - if she lets it be so. She is a strong minded character determined not to be restricted by the confines of her society. On her quest to solve the puzzle of The Golden Butterfly Luciana, accompanied by her best friend Charley, must travel to London and draw on all her resources to combat the prejudices of her day and solve the secrets of her family. It is difficult to know whom to trust and the plot twists and turns make this an exciting read.
Suitable for 10+
Suitable for 10+
May 7, 2019
The clever and determined Luciana is the true star of this middle grade tale of magic, bravery, friendship and adventure. Fast-paced and dazzling, the story captured my attention from the very beginning with the emotional scenes between Luciana and her dying grandfather, the Magnificent Marko. The mystery of her parents, the treasure hunt through London, and the brilliant world of magicians only added to the appeal of the book as it tackled the issues of gender equality, misogyny and equal opportunities.
January 31, 2021
As unassuming as this book is, it's such a remarkable read.
This book is fantastically magical. I often search for books that return me to my childhood years where I can escape in the pages and be taken away on a wonderful journey and The Golden Butterfly does just that.
This book is fantastically magical. I often search for books that return me to my childhood years where I can escape in the pages and be taken away on a wonderful journey and The Golden Butterfly does just that.
August 18, 2021
After reading The house of hidden Wonders, this was a must read. It is superb with magic, puzzles and a scavenger hunt and best of all feisty females (kickass actually). Sharon Gosling just has a wonderful way of portraying characters and I will be hunting down more of her books.
May 17, 2019
A scintillating tale of magic, mystery, family and friendship.
October 6, 2022
I loved this book, such a lovely story
May 1, 2024
“Everything changes, but that does not mean that everything ends.” 🦋✨
June 20, 2021
The star I took away is for encouraging knowingly playing with VERY HOT fire, and justifying it despite the consequences.
September 25, 2019
(1) YA alert. Nothing more to be said. Damn the people who write the synopsis.
November 18, 2019
This book is magnificent!
I love the world of Victorian magic and stage shows, and it really captures the feeling that this wonderful time of magic and showmanship is fading away, replaced by music hall shows. A little wonder is going out of the world, but it's not quite gone yet.
The plot is a gripping one. It's reminiscent of The Da Vinci Code, in the way Luciana follows hidden clues and clever devices from one point to the next, slowly unfolding the mystery of her grandfather's greatest trick, the Golden Butterfly. But unlike in that book, Luciana's journey moves on long before it gets tedious, and the story moves forward with pace, drama and peril that keeps it exciting and quite emotional at times.
Like all great magic tricks, this book knows when to hide things and how to manage the big reveals, and I loved how the secrets unfolded throughout it.
It's also strongly feminist, which I really enjoyed. Luciana quickly comes to understand that when people tell her that women can't do something, what they really mean is that they aren't allowed to do it, and throughout the novel she is fighting for her own equal rights, which comes to a pay-off that was simply marvellous, and had me laughing through my tears. There are also important messages throughout about facing and overcoming your fears, being brave and finding the life that is right for you, not the one that society expects you to lead.
The Golden Butterfly is exciting magical mystery, which delivers an important message about what girls are truly capable of achieving.
I love the world of Victorian magic and stage shows, and it really captures the feeling that this wonderful time of magic and showmanship is fading away, replaced by music hall shows. A little wonder is going out of the world, but it's not quite gone yet.
The plot is a gripping one. It's reminiscent of The Da Vinci Code, in the way Luciana follows hidden clues and clever devices from one point to the next, slowly unfolding the mystery of her grandfather's greatest trick, the Golden Butterfly. But unlike in that book, Luciana's journey moves on long before it gets tedious, and the story moves forward with pace, drama and peril that keeps it exciting and quite emotional at times.
Like all great magic tricks, this book knows when to hide things and how to manage the big reveals, and I loved how the secrets unfolded throughout it.
It's also strongly feminist, which I really enjoyed. Luciana quickly comes to understand that when people tell her that women can't do something, what they really mean is that they aren't allowed to do it, and throughout the novel she is fighting for her own equal rights, which comes to a pay-off that was simply marvellous, and had me laughing through my tears. There are also important messages throughout about facing and overcoming your fears, being brave and finding the life that is right for you, not the one that society expects you to lead.
The Golden Butterfly is exciting magical mystery, which delivers an important message about what girls are truly capable of achieving.
December 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. It's very atmospheric and kept me gripped right to the end. I loved the way the magic was woven throughout the book. The main characters were well written and helped to draw me into their story.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews