Clutch; M. G. Leonard

Queen of the birds, Maya Leonard, swoops in with another pitch-perfect instalment in this sparkling series that just gets better and better and better.

Spring has arrived in Briddvale bringing with it blossoming flowers, warmer days and the return of migrating birds. Twitch is incredibly excited to observe the peregrine falcons that are nesting on Passerine Pike, anxiously waiting for the chicks to hatch. Disaster strikes when the eggs are stolen. An egg thief is on the prowl, the police are involved and everyone is under suspicion, including Twitch. With more eggs in danger, can Twitch and the gang bring down the egg thief…

After solving two dangerous crimes and bringing criminals to justice, the crime-fighting, mystery-solving, bird-watching Twitchers are back in another highly appealing, incredibly intriguing and egg-citing whodunnit. The stakes are higher than ever this time, not only are precious eggs under threat but the very future of the The Twitchers and their hide in Aves Wood all hang precariously in the balance as a police inspector with tunnel vision has Twitch firmly in her crosshairs.

High drama, dangerous adventure and nighttime stakeouts ramp up the tension and jeopardy in this fast-paced, cleverly plotted and brilliantly written mystery that will keep you guessing and perched on the edge of your nest. With red-herrings, twists, numerous suspects, alibis, motives and allegations, it has everything readers could want.

The Twitchers are such a joyous group to spend time with and their shared love of nature,  wonderful moral code, blossoming friendships and fierce resolve to look out for each other are all delightful. With someone trying to frame Twitch, and willing to go to any lengths to cast suspicion on him, the friends have to come together like never before. These resourceful, observant and clue-hunting environmentalists will do anything to protect one of their own.

A glorious celebration of nature and birds in particular, Leonard and The Twitchers implore us all to protect local wildlife and raise issues around declining bird populations and the sad consequences of eggs stolen by eggers and overly keen oologists. Twitch and co teach readers about the need to care for nature and the environment, and to be conscious about making a difference in the here and now and the importance of looking after animals and the planet for future generations.

A thrilling springtime mystery! I cannot wait to see what summertime brings to Briddvale.

Recommended for 8+.

With huge thanks to Walker for the copy I received in exchange for an honest review.