Horten's Miraculous Mechanisms

Ten-year-old Stuart runs across a note encouraging him to find his great-uncle's workshop, and the challenge is on. Clues...puzzles...mystery...magic...this book has it all.

I expected more from this wonderful cover and even better title. It was pleasantly British and rather whimsical which are things I enjoy but it fell a bit flat to me. Perhaps I just read it too quickly, though I can hardly see how that is to be helped because it is a fast read even for a middle grade book.

I found Stuart's solitary adventures a trifle dull, mostly because everything fell into place rather easily and it seemed a little forced. It was more fun when he finally teamed up with the girl, but that took its time in happening.

All in all, I'm glad I read it, but it's probably not something I'll add to my permanent collection.