I was sent 'The Shadow Keeper ' for review and read it straight after the first book in the series and loved it. After the events of 'The Dreamsnatcher', Moll and the gang are back doing everything they can to find the next amulet and stop the Shadowmasks. In their latest adventure, Moll, Gryff, Alfie and Siddy face off against the evil Darkbite and Ashtongue as the land around them becomes corrupted by dark magic. We get to see more of the gypsy magic as Moll tries to cast the Oracle Bones to help them find the second amulet of truth.

Elphinstone has written a wonderful, jam-packed adventure that is sure to capture the imagination of spirited young readers. The story is set along the coast with secret caves, dangerous villages and temperamental lighthouses, which adds to more to Moll's world than just Tanglefern Forest that we saw in the first book. We also get a host of new characters - some friendly, some not. However, where Elphinstone's writing really shines is in the relationships she has created between Moll and her friends and family. There are strong themes of friendship, trust and believing in each other. The plot even depends on Moll, Siddy and Alfie believing in and being there for each other. There is also a continuation from the first book od the idea that family doesn't depend on blood, but can be those who really love and care for you.

The one issue I had with Elphinstone's writing was that at times it felt a little too fast paced. There was always something happening, which left very little time to rest between the action. It would have been nice to have had a chapter or so at the beginning to really experience the gypsy life with Moll and the gang before the action kicked in.

Overall, this book is a great sequel (and better than the first too) and the series itself is one that I would highly recommend to any young readers who enjoy adventures full of magic, friendship and clue finding - oh and of course wildcats. ( )