A reclusive old man had to die before something of major proportions happened in the small seaside town of Calder Cove. Over a long and extended period, a series of weird and rather extraordinary events occur, most of which are hidden from view behind a construction of tall screens. Then, with a very grand and rather bizarre opening, a strange and mysterious castle is revealed, a castle that seemed to have appeared out of the darkness and silence of nowhere.

Was it magic? The townsfolk wondered. Or was it something more sinister?

In time it is made known that the massive grey edifice is nothing more than a school. But when the exclusively invited children finally step inside, the huge doors are locked securely behind them, creating a strict division between the world of their families and the castle. Everything that was once a part of everyday life becomes a thing of the past and the new students are thrown, without warning, into the unknown. It is with great trepidation they begin to question these changes and ask...is this place really a school?

An answer to their dilemma begins to show itself after an intriguing visit to an Aztec pyramid that results in the theft of a cursed ring, and the eventual disappearance of the school's bully, Neville Cormac. The teachers' blasé response to this matter prompts Bridget Lincoln and her motley crew of friends to investigate. But they get more than they bargain for when they stumble upon magical rooms and hidden passageways, a golden doorway and, most horrifically, their own doom!

Merlin's School for Ordinary Children: Ring of Curses is fast, fun and full on, a rollicking good read, jam-packed with magic and excitement that will have you captivated and hanging out for more.