Serafina and the Black Cloak-The Serafina Series Book 1 - Softcover

"Beatty spins an enchanting mystery through lonely Serafina's golden eyes. Each new clue adds another brush stroke to this keenly perceptive portrait of a young girl searching for answers about herself and the world around her. The book leaves readers satisfied with the plot but hungry for more about its unusual heroine. Adults and children will eagerly follow Serafina from the basement into a world of self-discovery, justice, and new friendships."--Kirkus

"Serafina narrates with an engaging voice that draws the reader into her world. The setting is just as engaging: the Biltmore drips with opulence and the surrounding forest with sufficient eeriness Serafina has enough mystery and fantasy (with a fair amount of creepiness) to satisfy young readers."--Historical Novel Society

"Serafina's quest to understand herself and her unknown family history, along with some truly creepy moments and imagery makes for an eerie historical mystery."--Publishers Weekly

"An entrancing historical, mystery thriller, Beatty tells the story through Serafina's searching and inner dialogue. A finely detailed setting, strong characterization, rich foreshadowing, and haunting imagery, all work to build suspense throughout."--SLC

"The vast estate with a haunted past and a creepy present makes for an atmospheric setting, and Serafina's multiple narrow escapes from her enemy are absolutely thrilling. Serafina herself is an enchanting heroine, brave and determined, and her attraction to the dark forest adds another layer of suspense and mystery."--BCCB

"The chills and adventure will surely please."--Booklist

"The story drips with suspense, wrapping readers into the narrative just as easily as the man in the black cloak binds his young victims. Serafina's friendship with Braeden is heartfelt and believable... mystery fans will enjoy this book." --School Library Journal

AccoladesSouthern Independent Booksellers Association: OKRA Pick for representing the "best in Southern Literature"2017-18 Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice List, selection

Living secretly in the basement of a grand estate where her pa works as a maintenance man, young Serafina narrowly escapes a black-cloaked man who has been abducting local children and who Serafina, aided by a youth from the estate, endeavors to expose. Simultaneous eBook.