A Lakeland Mystery: The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern (A Lakeland Mystery Series Book Four)

After the arrival of monstrous Aunt Mary, much of Cockermouth falls ill with a mysterious stomach bug. On a hunch from one of their aunt's crazy drawings, telepathic sisters Mae and Isla Donaldson follow a trail of ambition and despair that leads to the door of a famous family, exposing the darkness within. Is this one secret too many? 

Meet the Donaldson girls – primary schoolers and detectives. Mae, clever and very, very proper. Isla, a wild, artistic soul most at home wandering the fells of England’s beautiful Lake District. They are united by an uncanny ability to share their thoughts.

Reviews

“Another great story about Mae and Isla! I love the relationship between the sisters: the sibling rivalry is relatable, yet they always come together to solve a mystery, setting a good example to us all. If you are reading together with your child, your young reader will appreciate the pages with charming illustrations and short text.” K. Stubbs, Reading tutor, Mother of two, Bermuda

“If you’re looking for a mystery that will have both children and adults hooked, The Mystery of The Chemic Tavern by Warren Cabral is a must-read. This clever story follows two sisters who share a special connection as they uncover a strange illness spreading through their town — all somehow linked to the local brewery’s beer. Or is it? The mystery unfolds with just the right mix of suspense and fun. Parents will appreciate the smart, layered writing and Mr. Cabral’s light-hearted, whimsical turn of phrase. Perfect for young readers who love adventure, secrets, and a good twist, The Mystery of The Chemic Tavern is a delight from start to finish.” Paul Woolgar, Lawyer, Cornwall

“I enjoyed The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern. Aunt Mary is quite a character, who lends some comedy to the proceedings! I also love how the girls communicate. Their “power” is not presented like something weird but in a normal way, so the girls seem credible and likeable.” Deirdre de Wijze, Mother of two, The Netherlands.

“It was good to be back in the company of Mae and Issy - in a challenging puzzler which turns on a vital piece of art history. My favourite detectives!" John Nicolson, Father of three, Berlin

“Warren Cabral's latest book in his humorous and refreshing sleuthing series introduces eccentric Aunt Mary to the family ensemble when she comes to stay. Sisters Mae and Isla Donaldson think their only challenge is putting up with an unwanted guest over Guy Fawkes. But when explosions (that have nothing to do with gunpowder) afflict the beer- drinking villagers of Cockermouth, there’s a mystery to be solved. Charming and imaginative, this is fun, fast paced and beautifully written.” Catherine Zuill, Editor, Writer, Online producer, Sydney

“Warren Cabral has written a charming, tightly woven mystery in The Mystery of the Chemic Tavern, in his Lakeland Mysteries series. The story is set in the quaint town of Cockermouth and follows telepathic sisters Mae and Isla as they investigate a strange illness linked to a local tavern. The plot moves along quickly, and the writing is easily accessible, with the illustrations by Corryn Webb adding a vibrant visual layer. Ideal for young readers and cozy mystery fans, this is a polished and engaging read that balances intrigue with heart.” Gaynor Gallant, Teacher, Mother of two, Brighton

“Really enjoyed this fast- paced mystery with its delightful heroines, ingenious plot twists and vivid sense of place. Follow Isla and Mae, two very different sisters, as they investigate mysterious Lakeland happenings and with the help of their secret mental link, run rings round well-meaning but oblivious adults. Bright children who enjoy words and ideas will love it. This is a great series which manages that rare combination of being both subtly educational and laugh out loud funny. Very much looking forward to the next adventure.” Serena Cox, Mother of two, London

“The two sisters’ first taste of shandy leads them awry and headfirst into a mystery amongst complex and colourful characters. Clever, sharp, and connecting the dots far quicker than the adults…these are certainly two children who should not be underestimated!” Natasha Sharma, Accountant, London

“‘Families are a funny business,’ and get a bit wild when Isla and Mae are on the case, sorting out the problems of the adults, with their extraordinary secret skills. They may be young but with keen observation and imagination, they can peer into the tangled lives of the people of their community. When the whole town comes down with disgusting tummy troubles, the girls’ mental focus is sharpened, and the case is on!” John Zuill, Actor, Father, Australia

“A sparkling adventure blending family drama and an intriguing mystery into one irresistible read. Follow sisters Isla and Mae as they unravel the secrets of strange brews, eccentric artists, grimy mischief- makers and a series of strange events in a tale that is unexpected, hilarious and just a bit off-beat.  Two of the sharpest detectives you’ll ever meet - can’t wait to join them on their next adventure.” Sally McNish, Mother of four, Dog lover, London

“The loving and complementary relationship between the sisters is not only fun but utterly endearing. It is very reminiscent of the old classics, but with a notable modern twist that gives both creativity and intelligence a chance to shine. The prose is sure to delight both children and adults alike, as the language is both evocative and accessible to readers of all levels.” Lu Acevedo, Writer, ESL Tutor, Mexico City.

Author biography

Warren Cabral practised law in Bermuda for 30 years before taking up his pen as author of fiction for adults and children. Even before his second career as a writer, he had written short stories, plays, pantomimes and the books for two musicals. He was the winner of The Royal Gazette prize for one of his short stories. His most recent theatrical work was On the Line, staged at The Tea House Theatre in London. The Lakeland Mysteries, of which The Fire on Slate Fell is the first book, is Warren's first venture into children's fiction.

Corryn Webb is a Welsh freelance illustrator and designer based in the rugged mountains beside the North Wales coast in the UK. Living with her husband, children and rescue dogs.With her vivid imagination and eye for detail, Corryn has been lauded for her beautiful award-winning pieces bursting to the rim with creativity. She is fascinated by the beauty, magic, and mythology of the natural landscape of Wales, which regularly inspires her art.