Lora Senf is a writer of dark and twisty stories for all ages. She is the author of The Clackity, Bram Stoker Award winner The Nighthouse Keeper, The Loneliest Place, and Pennies. She credits her love of words to her parents and to the public library that was walking distance from her childhood home. Lora finds inspiration for her writing in her children's retellings of their dreams, on road trips through Montana, and most recently while reminiscing about summer days spent on her bike. She lives in eastern Washington with her husband, their twins, and two remarkably lazy cats. Visit her at LoraSenf.com.

Alfredo Cáceres is an author and illustrator from Santiago, Chile. He has worked in picture books, magazines, newspapers, and video games, including the acclaimed Blight Harbor series and New York Times bestseller The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science. His debut graphic novel Through the Black Gate is based on the city of Valdivia, Chile, where he grew up between rain and moss. Visit him on Instagram @RedoLaf.

* "[O]utstanding . . . . Fans will be elated to see this extension of the Blight Harbor world, but prior knowledge is not necessary; lucky new readers will likely be excited that there is more to experience from this world."--BCCB, starred review "September 2025"

"Returning fans will enjoy references to the books, but no prior knowledge is required for new readers to enter this haunted world, which comes to life through Senf's rich, atmospheric writing. The spooks offer high stakes that are framed in a way that's appropriate for the target audience. Above all, the sisterhood among the girls is touching and feels believably nuanced, highlighting bonds that only time and trust can forge. Cáceres' eerie black-and-white illustrations appear throughout, helping to bring scenes to life and matching the tone of the story...A compelling and imaginative bookend to a strong series."--Kirkus Reviews "August 2025"

* "Senf returns to the world of The Clackity in this imaginative prequel set 100 years prior, telling a story that beautifully balances fantastical and frightening elements with a wonderfully nuanced and heartfelt portrayal of friendship. Alive with atmosphere and character, this creepy, captivating read will appeal to both longtime fans of the established series and newcomers alike."--Booklist, Starred Review

Publisher: Bound to Stay Bound Books

Pub date: 2025-09-23

Length: 369 pages