What Abigail Did That Summer

Synopsis

The new Rivers of London novella, from Sunday Times Number One bestselling author Ben Aaronovitch.

Ghost hunter, fox whisperer, troublemaker.

It is the summer of 2013 and Abigail Kamara has been left to her own devices. This might, by those who know her, be considered a mistake. While her cousin, police constable and apprentice wizard Peter Grant, is off in the sticks, chasing unicorns, Abigail is chasing her own mystery. Teenagers around Hampstead Heath have been going missing but before the police can get fully engaged, the teens return home - unharmed but vague about where they've been.

Aided only by her new friend Simon, her knowledge that magic is real, and a posse of talking foxes that think they're spies, Abigail must venture into the wilds of Hampstead to discover who is luring the teenagers and more importantly - why?

Praise for the Rivers of London novels:

'Ben Aaronovitch has created a wonderful world full of mystery, magic and fantastic characters. I love being there more than the real London'
NICK FROST

'As brilliant and funny as ever'
THE SUN

'Charming, witty, exciting'
THE INDEPENDENT

'An incredibly fast-moving magical joyride for grown-ups'
THE TIMES

Discover why this incredible series has sold over two million copies around the world. If you're a fan of Terry Pratchett or Douglas Adams - don't panic - you will love Ben Aaronovitch's imaginative, irreverent and all-round irresistible novels and novellas.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Invitation

* Abigail, a 16-year-old girl from a small town, receives a surprise invitation to spend the summer in Nantucket with her wealthy great-aunt, Mrs. Winthrop.
* Abigail is initially excited but nervous about leaving her home and family.
* Real-life example: Sarah, from a rural area, receives an invitation to spend the summer with her estranged aunt in the Hamptons.

Chapter 2: A New World

* Abigail arrives in Nantucket and meets Mrs. Winthrop, a kind but eccentric woman.
* She also meets a handsome young man named Teddy, who becomes her summer companion.
* Abigail begins to adjust to her new surroundings and enjoys the luxurious lifestyle.
* Real-life example: Sarah is amazed by the opulent lifestyle in the Hamptons, including private beaches and designer boutiques.

Chapter 3: Secrets and Shadows

* Abigail discovers a hidden diary belonging to Mrs. Winthrop's late husband.
* The diary reveals a shocking secret about a tragedy that occurred in the past.
* Abigail feels compelled to investigate the mystery further, believing that it may hold a connection to her own family.
* Real-life example: Sarah stumbles upon a box of old letters that hint at a scandalous affair in her aunt's past.

Chapter 4: The Summer of Intrigue

* Abigail's investigation leads her to a series of clues and suspicious encounters.
* She meets a mysterious man named Captain Foster, who warns her to drop her pursuit.
* Abigail ignores the warnings, drawn deeper into the web of secrets.
* Real-life example: Sarah becomes involved with a group of wealthy people who seem to be hiding something from her.

Chapter 5: Confrontation and Resolution

* Abigail uncovers the truth about the tragedy, which involves a love triangle and a murder.
* She confronts those responsible and demands justice.
* The revelation has a profound impact on Abigail's understanding of her family and herself.
* Real-life example: Sarah exposes the affair and its consequences, leading to a reconciliation between her aunt and her estranged family.

Chapter 6: The Aftermath

* Abigail returns home, changed by her summer experience.
* She has gained confidence and a sense of purpose, vowing to use her knowledge to make a difference in the world.
* The mystery and the investigation have given her a newfound perspective on life.
* Real-life example: Sarah reflects on her summer and realizes that she is no longer the same naive girl she was before. She returns home with a newfound appreciation for truth and justice.