With Christmas rapidly approaching, if you’re scratching your head for gift ideas, I have several novels available that might make good presents. Over the next few days I will explore each one in a little more detail.

Some of my novels are aimed at grown-ups, others at children, but all readers can enjoy them. As CS Lewis once said, a children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story.

Today’s suggestion: Dr Gribbles and the Beast of Blackthorn Lodge

Intended Readership: Children and adults who enjoy books like the Alex Rider series.

Dr Gribbles and the Beast of Blackthorn Lodge is a gripping and scary tale involving spies, monsters, haunted houses, mad scientists and lots more besides, with action and thrills to spare. It was actually inspired by the nightmares of my youngest son, and the book is duly dedicated to him.

Here is the blurb from the back of Dr Gribbles and the Beast of Blackthorn Lodge:

September 1987.

Curiosity lands Tim Rawling in a world of secrets, spies and a desperate race against time.

The haunted house, the monster and the mad scientist are only the beginning of a terrifying adventure.

So far hardly any reviews have appeared for this book, which is a shame as I think it is rather good. There is a five star rave on Barnes and Noble, calling it a “fantastic read” but by and large the novel has been somewhat overlooked. Time to change that!

Print copies are available to order here: http://www.lulu.com/shop/simon-dillon/dr-gribbles-and-the-beast-of-blackthorn-lodge/paperback/product-21564790.html