A valuable painting leaves the train station in Galway in a guarded carriage. When the train arrives in Dublin, the painting is gone.

Suspicion immediately falls on Mr Kavanagh, the train's guard. Twins Deirdre and Tim know their father isn't the thief, and they're determined to find out who is.

Along with their friend Joe, they race against time to track down the painting … but as they close in on the thief they find themselves up against powerful enemies. Soon the children are battling not just to clear Mr Kavanagh's name – but for their very lives!



Overall a very rewarding and enjoyable story that is sure to make children aged 9+ to feel part of the adventure. Highlighting the wisdom and strength of children, this is a book full of wonderful language that is sure to fuel its readers literacy and reading skills



A well-plotted crime story with a distinctive setting and appealing cast, this has much to offer young readers



twists and turns aplenty keep this historical fiction action-packed, while Gallagher's masterful recreation of early 20th century Dublin adds atmosphere to this nail-biting mystery



a thrilling adventure



Accurate glimpses into the world of 1911 Dublin combine with masterful characterisation throughout and perfect plot developments and twists that will hold the attention of any reader. It is compelling reading; fast-paced, intriguing, clever, dramatic twists and turns, brave, loyal, full of friendship…. It's everything you want in a mystery…or in historical fiction, for that matter. Simply wonderful!



Brian Gallagher, author of children's historical fiction including Across the Divide and Secrets and Shadows, sets this fast-flowing mystery in his home city of Dublin and surrounds, threading the Holmes and Watson-style sleuthing with themes of friendship, grief, and loyalty



rooted in Dublin, the novel brings the city to life throughout, as the action follows a typical Holmes and Watson style. An enjoyable story highlighting the wisdom and strength of children



so much like the Famous Five, only an Irish version