Return to Finkleton

Finkleton #2

by K.C. Hilton

When the Finkle children discovered magical secrets in Uncle Harry’s shop, they vowed to keep them safe. Two years later Jack, Lizzy and Robert realized that the perfect weather wasn’t the only secret waiting to be discovered in the mysterious shop. Things aren’t always what they seem to be! There were people who would stop at nothing to acquire land in Finkleton. Of course, there were also those determined to protect the little village from greedy outsiders. Will selfish desires destroy the village of Finkleton? It was only a matter of time before those who cared about Finkleton and those who cared only for themselves would come into conflict. The result of this outcome would likewise depend on a matter of time. Once again Jack, Lizzy and Robert must learn to work together to protect the magical secrets of Finkleton. Come along to Finkleton. A new, magical adventure is about to begin!Age Range 9-12 Childrens / Middle Grade FictionChildren's Literary Classics Seal of Approval - April 13, 2012Readers Favorite - Five StarsReviewed by Rita V for Readers FavoriteMarch 11, 2012 - 5 Stars! Return To Finkleton is a wonderful mystery book for children aged 9-12. KC Hilton does it again in this magical adventure book for pre-teens! There are 28 action packed and fast flowing chapters that include everything from the magical valley, mysterious visitors, new magical items to discover, and ghosts. I loved every minute of reading this book as if I were a child again. I can easily see this series made into a movie series on the big screen and would be disppointed if it doesn't.

Genres: Magic, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Young Adult, Time Travel, Childrens

210 pages, Paperback

First published February 23, 2012

About the author

K.C. is a wife, mother and manages the family business. K.C.’s husband refers to her as Hobbit size and claims that she is “nuttier than a fruit cake.”

She owns a complete set of pink tools, believes in aliens and secretly wants to become a badass ninja. In her spare time, she can be found daydreaming about leaving work early to eat chocolate and drink wine. Sometimes her dreams come true.

Website: www.kc-hilton.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KcHiltonAuthor

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/MrsKcHilton

Reviews

[Ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a note: This was an ARC, so the final version may be slightly different.

I recall reviewing the The Magic of Finkleton last year as "exciting, fast-paced, and magical." The second installment is soooo much more... well, MORE than the first. There is no "sophomore slump" with her second novel (although, I guess technically this is Hilton's third. Shame on me for not having read her 90 Miles to Freedom by now). Anyway, the second Finkleton is cleverly written (giving the right amount of description so as to move the story along, but not bore its younger readers), slyly plotted (you're never exactly sure what's going to happen next), and will be, if this book is any indication, a staple for young readers for many generations to come.

Revolving around a clock and a hidden library with a bright blue book, the Finkle children are once again protecting their village from both weather-related issues and blunders, as well as from the odious Mr. Lowsely. Can Robert fix a grievous accident in time? Can he keep the family's secret in the family? Read this novel and find out just how exciting the magical world of Finkleton really is. I eagerly await the third and final installment to Finkleton; I also eagerly await Hilton's many other novels that I hope are to come.

My advice? Read the books. But please, keep in mind they ARE middle grade. Don't be that douche who complains that it reads too young - they're for kids, read the description. More importantly, read the books.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I didn't read the first one, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked the characters and all the little magical things that can happen in Finkleton! I sincerely cant wait for the next one! You have me HOOKED! Thanks for the Goodread!

[Bunny]

***Originally posted on BUNNYCATES.COM***
For the video review, unboxing video, and giveaay - please see the review post on my site. Thanks.
*****************************************

I love this entire series. I really liked book one, the Magic of Finkleton (read my review here). As much as I liked book one, I LOVED book two!

In book two the kids are a little older, and so is the writing style. It’s almost like Mrs Hilton is letting the kid readers – grow along with the story. Book One was more for say 6 and up with help reading the bigger words. Book Two is like ages 8 and up, no help required. So it’s gone from Childrens book to Middle Grade, if that makes sense. I think it’s fantastic.

The Return to Finkleton is book two in the series, but it is also written well enough that it can be read as a stand alone. If you haven’t read book one, you won’t be lost at all. I love series when they are written this way. Each book is it’s own complete story, which in the end will go together to tell the BIGGER story.

For the series itself, in my mind I can see so many possibilities on where the storylines could go! I mean these kids have their entire lives to live, so much can happen between 8 and 80, you know? I am glad that another book is already in the works. There is a sneak peek of it at the end of RtF , “Saving Finkelton”!

Character wise, each of the three siblings (Robert, Jack, and Lizzie) are very well fleshed out. Their personalities are as defined as their looks, which in my opinion, most childrens books miss the mark on. I love that they are ALL smart, whether it be book smart or “street smart”. Their personalities help to define the family dynamic, and I love that as well. So many books now a days have characters with a strong sense of self. So strong that the sense of “FAMILY” gets lost along the way. Not in Finkleton. In the Finkleton series, “FAMILY” is forefront. We need to see more of that in our childrens literature!

Plot wise, there is nothing I want to tell you that’s not already stated in the synopsis. This story is as much a mystery as it is an adventure. I would hate myself if I thought I “spoiled” the book for anyone! I will say that even though it is the “MAGIC” of Finkleton series, there are no witches or anything like that in it. It’s more a “fairy tale” type magic. Think faerie type magic and you are leading in the right direction. BUT with that said – there are no fae in Finkleton either. Or are there? hmmmmm LOL.

In Conclusion:
I’m a fan of this entire series, and not just because I helped edit the second book! I think it’s fantastic for little ones. This one helps in teaching the lesson of “accountability” and the repercussions of ones actions.

Mom Notes:
Great series! I would say good for age 7 (advanced readers)+

Dont miss our EPIC Return to Finkleton Giveaway!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Finkleton series and I must admit this is better than the first book. Sorry, it's just my opinion. I enjoyed the first book and looked back to see that I had given it a 4 star rating. This book is worthy of 5 stars! It has mystery, action and twists that I did not see coming. For a middle grade book it's very good! Worth the read. Although this is the sequel, it seemed to be its own story and only referenced the first book a few times, not that it needed to.

*** SPOILER BELOW ***

We start off learning about glowworms (I did a quick google search - interesting and beautiful - I never knew). Also the chapter headings have quotes from Harry Finkle. I found them ALL great! They were almost a small story themselves.

Again, the Finkle children are the center of attention, but we are also introduced to new people and get to discover the town of Finkleton, which I adore. Mr. Lowsley is still lingering around and being his bad self.

The mysterious clock from the first book is now introduced in more detail along with more fascinating discoveries. I now want a hidden library! Ohhh, and special magical books to go with it!

I can't force myself to spoil much more. I've wrote and erased several times for this review, but I can't bring myself to say much more to ruin it for anyone.

The ending is wonderful and the first chapter of Saving Finkleton is a must read! This series has me hooked!

[Jonathan Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE MAGIC OF FINKLETON set the scene, but WOW oh WOW we are sent into another world of time travel and adventures beyond compare - literally!! Having narrated the first book, I was naturally curious as the childrens next adventure plus the introduction of some brilliant created and thought out new characters - a real lovely challenge for a narrator. Robert still lags behind his brother and sister and after several new and exciting "discoveries" along the way he makes a dreadful mistake unleashing a set of circumstances that seem irrevicable! However, something thay all agreed to never meddle with takes him on brave, lonely and courageous journey of time travel! How can Mr.Lowsely be stopped THIS time? Why does Miss.Caroline wink at him in the past and present? And the staircase into the abyss! The magic of Finkleton was the starter, KC HIlton has now supplied the meat and two veg meal with this runaway epic!!! Any child and adult will be taken away from their woes and current economic climate and this beauty will bring sunshine into anyone's life! I badger her to write finish SAVING Finkleton! For there's something magical in them there trees?!

Jonathan Evans
Narrator - Return to Finkleton.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who controls time? In this, the second Finkleton book, the magic begins with a new secret uncovered. Robert finds out the hard way, first playing with the old clock, spinning the hour hand, and then by breaking it. How did he become 35 years old? He's supposed to be 10 years old. This isn't right! And how will he fix the clock and return to normal, is it even possible? How time flies! Robert is shocked to discover his sister and brother have also aged by 25 years.

We travel around Finkleton and discover everything has changed, and not for the better. Teamwork is needed to return Finkleton to its wondrous and happy days of wonderful weather, just the right weather to produce the best crops in the world, and to restore Miss Caroline's house, which was destroyed by lightning. As the Finkle children discovered in the first book, they must not keep secrets from each other and they must trust each other to work as a team. Otherwise, a serious mistake can leave disaster in its wake, and that is exactly what they now face together.

The children, adults through a large portion of this book, must find a way to turn back the clock. Together they are able to fix the clock but there are more secrets to be learned. At least they have learned that the "bad" man, Mr. Lowsley, has not been giving them trouble over the past 25 years. Finding the new secret room with even more books, even the books are magical. But who are the two young men Robert saw who look so familiar? And, what exactly does Miss Caroline know and why? Are there really fairies? Ah, this question must wait for another episode of life in the magic town of Finkleton. Another wonderful tale for young people, with life lessons hidden in the adventures. Recommended for ages 9-12, I find it an enjoyable series for any age, perhaps some memories of the childhood left behind. Another winner for KC Hilton.

[Kira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living with their Great Uncle Harry and helping in his shop, Robert, Lizzy, and Jack has discovered some magical secrets. In the first book Magic of Finkleton, the trio was able to stop their nemesis, Mr. Lowsley’s dastardly plot to try and force people into selling their house to him by fixing the lever under the counter of their uncle’s shop. That lever controlled the rain in Finkleton. Now, a new lever has appeared. When Robert discovers a secret room under his uncle’s study, he also discovers a lever that creates lightning in Finkleton. When he pulls the lever, he finds out that Miss Caroline, a friend of the family’s, house has burned down. To make matters worse, the hourglasses in the shop, that somehow help to control the weather, malfunction and Robert accidentally blurts the problem out to his uncle in front of Mr. Lowsley. Now Mr. Lowsley is threatening Robert and his family if Robert doesn’t tell the magical secret of Finkleton. Thinking that he can get past all of the bad things and prevent himself from betraying his family, Robert messes with a clock in his uncle’s study that’s supposed to go forward or backward. Unfortunately, he not only winds the clock forward, but manages to break just as he gets 25 years into the future. Can Robert figure out a way to fix the clock, save Finkleton from Mr. Lowsley, and fix the problem he created?

A delightful, time travel fantasy. The characters are likable and realistic. The plot is well-developed, well-paced, and entertaining. Readers who have read the first book in the series will have an easier time following this book, but it can be read without having read the first one. Fans of fantasy, adventure, time travel, and magic will enjoying reading this book.

[B.J. Burgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this sequel to The Magic of Finkleton, taking place two years later, the Finkle children, Jack, Lizzy, and Robert have adjusted to living in the town of Finkleton. The family is still running their late uncle’s shop, in which the children discover a secret room full of mysterious books. Robert sneaks into the room and pulls a magical lever that causes lighting to strike a nearby home. Feeling guilty, Robert is determined to change his mistake, and with the help a magical clock, he might be able to do so. First, he accidentally travels to the future, where he sees the outcome of his actions.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and eagerly waited for the second book to be released. I read the book in one sitting! Just like the original, the sequel has a dazzling cover but this time with a magical clock. The sequel focuses more on the youngest child Robert as he travels through time to undo a fire that he caused. My favorite character still has to be Lizzy, as she and I have a love for books. This time around, we meet some new characters and get to explore some of the other shops in Finkleton. Mr. Lowsley returns as the villain, even more determined to find out what or who is responsible for the magical occurrences in Finkleton. KC Hilton has once again created a wonderfully original fantasy that both children and adults will love. I like how the author leaves a few unanswered questions for the reader to think about. Who is Mrs. Caroline? Luckily we don‘t have to wait long because we get a sneak peak at the third book Saving Finkleton, in which I cannot wait to read, in the back of the book. I recommend the book to everyone!

[Laurie Cameron · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I had it to do all over again, I would... How many of us have had that thought? Or suppose you did something really stupid. Wouldn’t you like to be able to go back in time and undo it? The Finkle family has inherited a general shop that has all kinds of magic tools, like hourglasses that control the rain and a clock that manipulates time. The three children have taken it upon themselves to safeguard these things from greedy people who are intent on discovering them so that they can use them for their own purposes.

In the process, the children wind up keeping secrets from each other and being at cross purposes instead of working together. The youngest, ten-year-old Robert, finds himself making messes all over town. He is so ashamed that he doesn’t want to tell his brother and sister what he has done. Wouldn’t it be nice if he could just go back and fix it? Against his own better judgment and the vow the children have made to each other never to touch the clock, Robert can’t resist the idea of manipulating time.

It is a very imaginative story taking place in a quaint village with colorful characters. I was more intrigued with the effects of time travel on eventual outcomes than the quest to save the village from greedy out-of-towners. Still, I found the beginning to be just a bit disjointed and can’t help but wonder if one must read the first book to make sense of the second. I would recommend it to all middle grade readers.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh yeah, I read this and forgot to mention it! I read it on a plane sometime in the abyss between March 10th and 12th, so I'm just gonna say it was the 11th because I can't recall exactly when I read it (though I think it might even have been at KL airport, which was on the 11th) and the timezones were changing madly anyway, so who knows really what date went with what day? I mean, I flew out of London on 10pm Saturday and 24 hours later it was 9am Monday in Melbourne. And this is why I keep waking up at 5am and crashing by like 8:30.

BUT I DIGRESS.

This book is awesome!! I loved the first book in the series, but I think I might have actually liked this one even more. Omg, I don't know. It's the perfect follow-up, though. The perfect second novel, while the first one was the perfect first/introduction. It's very fast-paced and gripping, and everything fits together so neatly. I didn't want to put it down. So I didn't! It's just the right length to read all in one sitting :D And still has that lovely Enid Blyton-esque charm to it, and still makes me think that this would make a freakin' awesome TV series.

[Brad Sells · Rating 5 out of 5]

RETURN TO FINKLETON is magical, whimsical, and a fun journey into the marvelous land of Finkleton!

Let me say this: I love middle grade novels. Sure, I’m 14, but middle grade novels had that little spark that can take you into a magical place that, almost always, does not focus on romance. K.C. Hilton’s latest novel is one of the best middle grade novels I’ve ever read.

Two words: The. Imagination. This world that Hilton has created is fun, magical, but also haunting. This vivid and bright place has the one of the best storytellers telling the book. Every little detail of the book played out perfectly clear inside my head, and I didn’t want to set the book down.

K.C. Hilton also has the magnetic writing style that entices the reader into the story and doesn’t let them leave the world of Finkleton until the very last page. This fun experience had me actually dreaming about what would happen next to our beloved characters.

Overall, RETURN TO FINKLETON is a wondrous and great middle grade novel that I highly recommend you go read!

[Sheena-kay Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a fun read for me. As a bibliophile I really got into the character of Lizzie a book lover like myself. Robert the youngest will appeal to readers who know what it's like to be the young one in the family and having to sometimes force people to listen to you. Jack the eldest shows how older children can take on responsibilities beyond even their capabilities sometimes because they feel it's their duty and end up being overprotective. K.C. Hilton created a magical story in a town when everything goes perfectly until human error or greed gets in the way. Proving no matter how perfect something seems, nothing is perfect. A great lesson for children as well as the fact that anything can be worked out with love and co-operation. This book is for ages 8-11 and will capture the interest of any child who loves reading fantasy or a really good book. And even a couple adults.

[Sue Moro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This wonderful sequel to The Magic of Finkleton begins two years after the events in the previous book. Even more magical wonders await Jack, Lizzy, and especially Robert as they uncover yet another secret room within the shop.

I found myself liking the sequel even more than the first book! The children are faced with an even more complicated chain of events that they must unravel and set to rights. The pacing is fast and kept me engaged, and the wringing style is delightful.

The sneak peak of Saving Finkleton, the next (final ?) book in the series, left me craving a copy now!

[Krista (CubicleBlindness Reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

We return to Finkleton village where the kids are still running most of the duties around the shop. This time there is a hidden door in the floor where more magical things are found for the kids to discover. One of the new discoveries involves a clock, one that can bring about time-travel. More danger and magic ensues.

These stories are cute and fast paced reads, they are really short and would be perfect for story-time, offers up an opportunity for children to build upon their imaginations and what it would be like to live in a magical village, especially in this store/house.

[Dan Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although I wasn't as "wow'ed" by this book as I was by the original I still enjoyed it. It was quite engaging and was easily read in less than a day. The author kept me wondering what would happen next. Now, with at least one more book on the way I have so many questions that I am hoping will be answered. Well done, K.C. Hilton. I look forward to the further adventures of the Finkle children.

[Daniel Osborn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book Return to Finkleton continues the story from the previous book. We get a lot more magic and secret doors that only make this story better. I am a fan of fast paced books and the author does just that with this. i didn't want to put it down i wanted to keep up with the Finkleton children to see what else they will discover. I can't wait for the third book to come out and continue the story.

[Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was truly AMAZING I could say probaly the best middle grades book I have ever read! Forget what it says on the back "Age 9-12" this book is really meant for everyone to love and enjoy! This was a really quick read and enjoyed every chapter of these two books! Defenitly looking foward to the last book :( sad to see the series end "Saving Finkleton"!!! Pick this book up!

Full review to come!

[Melissa Napier · Rating 5 out of 5]

all i can say is wow! my daughter and i are both hooked. i havent been this excited waiting for the next book to come out since the twilight series. my daughter LOVED the first one and read it for an honers english book and she was a fan ever since. KC Hilton has done an amazing job capturing her readers attenion with this series. it pulls you into the story and keeps you on the edge of your seat. we love love LOVE IT!! waiting for #3.

[✦BookishlyRichie✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great sequel to "The magic of finkleton".
I loved the ending and the sneak peek to book three was fantastic!
K.C. is a great writer and it shows her books. I cannot wait till book 3
comes out and I'd recommend this one to anyone who loves middle grade fantasy.
You don't HAVE to read the first book to know what the deal is, but it's wise to
read it anyway. :)

-R.D.

[Jaime (Twisting the Lens) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not read the first book, but I did not feel lost at all. Hilton has created a wonderful, fun, and smart world for middle-grade/YA readers. I am going to seek out the first book for sure, and pass them along to my niece who is sure to love them as well! A great new series that is sure to be remembered in a sea of forgettable books for kids.

[Therese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging book, reading it through in one setting. Time and magic, and people and things not as they appear to be! I received this second book in the series, "Return to Finkleton", through GoodReads First Reads Giveaways, but will be looking for the first book in the stores, and will be awaiting the next installment; this is a book I really recommend for young readers!

[pdarnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story continues from book 1 adding more magic, fun and mischief. Robert does a lot of growing up here and finds out many more secrets about Finkleton. Once again, Jonathan Evans does a grand job narrating.

Magic, time travel, lightning, book of truths, redeeming ones careless actions, discovery and fun.

[Dorothy Bacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eagerly awaiting the next book.

I know these are children's books but I remain a child at heart. I love the thought of a magical place. There is always a place for pure whimsy. No, there really is no place like Finkleton, but if we can enjoy flying carpets then why not a magical place where the weather is always just exactly perfect for individual crops?

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great! I really enjoyed the first book, The Magic of Finkleton, but this one is so much more. It has more stuff happening and I loved it! It also had a sneak peek of the next book and I can't wait to read it! Great book for kids and adults (I'm 43).

[Ed · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read with relatable characters. This is definitely the kind of book I would have searched for when younger.
This book stands on its own, without having read the previous adventure. A glimpse at the end does make you hope for more tales to come.

[Tosha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Gosh! I LOVED this book! I know it's for ages 9-12 (I'm 21) but I enjoyed Thirteen Treasures and it's for the same age group (I think). Great book! Can't wait for the next one!

[Wafflecakes]

YAY FREE BOOK MARKS THEY ARE AWESOME!

[Mechele · Rating 4 out of 5]

read my review at readforyourfuture.blogspot.com :)

[Read for your future! · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read Mechele's review here:
http://readforyourfuture.blogspot.com...

[Della · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished reading at 2am. Loved! Review to come.