The Ruby in the Smoke

Philip Pullman's "The Ruby in the Smoke" introduces readers to the intrepid sixteen-year-old Sally Lockhart, who, after her father's sudden death, receives a cryptic warning that pulls her into a dangerous mystery. Set in the gritty backdrop of 19th-century London, Sally navigates a world of opium dens, cutthroats, and hidden family secrets, all while trying to solve the puzzle of a stolen ruby and her father's demise. This historical mystery is perfect for mature middle-grade readers and young adults who enjoy strong female protagonists and thrilling adventures.

"Beware the seven blessings" When she first utters there words, sixteen-year-old Sally Lockhart doesn't know their meaning. But when an employee of her late father hears them, he dies of fear. Thus begins Sally's terrifying journey into the seamy underworld of Victorian London, in search of clues that will solve the puzzle of ther father's death. Pursued by villains and cutthroats at every turn, she at last uncovers two dark mysteries. One involves the opium trade; the other, a stolen ruby of enormous value. Sally soon learns that she is th the key to both- and that it's worth her very life to find out why.