Mysterious Disappearance Sparks Magical Underwater Quest in New Cornwall-Inspired Book

New fantasy novel draws inspiration from Sennen Cove and Cornish coast

Debut author Sophie Peterson has just released a magical middle-grade novel, and it’s one that will strike a chord with readers in Cornwall.

Penelope Irving and the Secrets of Pastel Bay is a fantasy adventure set in a place heavily inspired by the Cornish coastline. In particular, it draws on Sophie’s memories of family holidays to Sennen Cove near Land’s End.

Underwater worlds, pirates and powerful secrets

At the heart of the story is Penelope Irving, a young girl whose life changes forever when her parents’ ship goes missing at sea. As her fourteenth birthday approaches, a sudden storm sweeps her away, kicking off an underwater journey packed with magic, danger, and unexpected revelations.

After waking in a mysterious cave, Penelope finds a shell necklace that seems to hold the key to a world she never imagined. Back home with her grandparents, Penelope decides to hide what happened – but strange dreams and growing suspicions begin to pull her deeper into the secrets of Pastel Bay.

A story of family, courage and what really matters

With evil pirate captains, magical necklaces and a race to uncover the truth, Penelope’s story is described as “an exciting underwater adventure full of magic, plot twists, love stories and laughs.”

The book explores the idea that family isn’t just who you’re born to, but the people you choose to keep close. As danger grows and her beloved Pastel Bay is threatened, Penelope must face her fears and make the biggest decision of her life.

Penelope Irving and the Secrets of Pastel Bay is available now – buy on Amazon.co.uk