The first in the popular Lone Pine series of novels (twenty in total).

Sets the standard for all the other books. However, it is firmly dated in the middle of World War Two, and the Home Guard and food,in particular, date it.

The book starts with a journey (two trains and a car). The Mortons get to meet Peter, and Tom, explore the area around Witchend, Hatcholt, The Long Mynd and Stiperstones, and have “adventures” – namely walking in the countryside, eating sandwiches outside, and building camp fires.

Eventually, we have a “mystery” surrounding Mrs Thurston, Jacob, John Davies and Mr Evans. The twins are detained at Mrs Thurston’s house, and subsequently freed.

Separately, each Lone Piner uncovers evidence that strangers have an unusual interest in the reservoir at Hatcholt.

Eventually, the German spies (for that is what they are) blow up the reservoir near Hatcholt. However, they are all captured due to the excellent work of the Lone Piners. ( )

First in the 'Lone Pine' series about a group of children who have adventures, mostly in Shropshire. This one is set in the war years; a family go to stay near the Long Mynd while their father is away, and get involved in a puzzling series of incidents.

A little dated, but very well written with good characterisation - I enjoyed it as a teenager, and enjoy it again as an adult - I re-read about every ten to twelve years. Delighted to have acquired a GGBP edition that holds the full text, after many re-reads of the abridged Armada edition.

Definitely recommended.

Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2020/07/mystery-at-witchend-by-malcolm-savi... ( )

In Raadsels om de Heksenhoek wordt het eerste avontuur beschreven van de Eenzame-Sparreboomclub (= Lone Pine Club ). ( )