Emma Carroll

Emma Carroll is a British children's author known for historical fiction novels aimed at middle-grade readers. Her works frequently incorporate elements of mystery and adventure while exploring significant historical events through the eyes of young protagonists. Carroll began her career as a secondary school English teacher before publishing her debut novel "Frost Hollow Hall" in 2013. She has since written multiple acclaimed novels including "Letters from the Lighthouse," "Secrets of a Sun King," and "The Week at World's End." Her books often focus on periods such as World War II, Victorian England, and Ancient Egypt, with particular attention to historical accuracy and period detail. Her writing has earned several awards and nominations, including the West Sussex Children's Book Award and the North East Book Award. Carroll's background in education influences her approach to historical subjects, making complex historical events accessible to young readers while maintaining narrative depth. She continues to write and release new titles, establishing herself as a significant voice in contemporary children's historical fiction.

Readers consistently highlight Carroll's skill at making historical events engaging for young readers. Parents and teachers frequently mention their children's increased interest in history after reading her books. What readers liked: - Clear, accessible writing that doesn't talk down to children - Detailed historical research and accuracy - Strong female protagonists - Balance of historical facts with compelling plots - Educational value without being didactic What readers disliked: - Some found the pacing slow in first few chapters - A few readers noted predictable plot elements - Occasional criticism of modern attitudes appearing in historical settings Ratings across platforms: Goodreads averages: - Letters from the Lighthouse: 4.3/5 (2,800+ ratings) - Secrets of a Sun King: 4.2/5 (1,900+ ratings) - Frost Hollow Hall: 4.1/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon UK averages 4.6/5 across titles, with parents often commenting on their children "devouring" the books. Multiple reviewers note their children read the books multiple times and sought out more information about the historical periods afterward.

Frost Hollow Hall (2013) A Victorian ghost story about a servant girl who investigates mysterious events at a country manor after nearly drowning in its frozen lake.

The Girl Who Walked On Air (2014) A circus performer in Victorian England pursues her dream of becoming a tightrope walker while uncovering dark secrets about her past.

In Darkling Wood (2015) A modern-day story connects with World War I when a girl discovers fairy sightings while staying at her grandmother's house near a mysterious wood.

Strange Star (2016) A fictional account of the night in 1816 when Mary Shelley first conceived the idea for Frankenstein.

Letters from the Lighthouse (2017) During World War II, two evacuee children discover coded messages that lead them to investigate their sister's disappearance.

Secrets of a Sun King (2018) A girl in 1922 London becomes involved in an Egyptian curse mystery connected to Tutankhamun's tomb.

When We Were Warriors (2019) Three interconnected stories set during World War II follow different children facing wartime challenges.

The Somerset Tsunami (2019) A girl in 1616 flees accusations of witchcraft during the historic flooding of Somerset levels.

The Week at World's End (2021) During the Cuban Missile Crisis, a girl discovers a mysterious runaway hiding in her family's bomb shelter.

The Ghost Garden (2022) A story set in 1945 about a girl who discovers eerie happenings in her family's garden while her brother recovers from polio.

The Little Match Girl Strikes Back (2022) A reimagining of Hans Christian Andersen's tale where a match seller in Victorian London fights for workers' rights.

The Cloak of Night (2023) A World War II story about a girl who helps Jewish children escape Nazi-occupied France through underground networks.

Katherine Woodfine writes historical mysteries set in Edwardian London with young detectives solving crimes. Her plots incorporate real historical elements and settings like department stores and museums.

Lucy Strange creates middle-grade historical fiction focused on World War periods in British history. Her protagonists navigate family secrets and overcome challenges during times of social upheaval.

Karen Foxlee combines historical settings with elements of magic and folklore in her middle-grade novels. Her works feature young female protagonists who uncover truths about their families and communities.

Michelle Harrison writes stories that blend historical settings with supernatural elements and folklore. Her books feature child protagonists discovering magic in their everyday surroundings while solving mysteries.

Frances Hardinge creates Victorian-era stories incorporating dark mysteries and folklore elements. Her works feature complex female protagonists who challenge societal expectations while uncovering hidden truths.