The Gilded Cage

Reviewed by: Terri Bauld - Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 6, 2017

Review

After an unexpected inheritance, Katherine and her brother George find themselves moving to a new world of luxury at Walthingham Hall in England. Life is very different here from their life on a simple farm in Virginia. 20 year old George and 16 year old Katherine are trying to adjust to their new life of high society with it's restrictive norms and culture. Unfortunately, tragedy soon strikes and George drowns under very mysterious circumstances. Katherine seems to be the only one certain that her brother's death was not an accident. Poachers, roaming wild creatures, a possible killer on the loose as well as questionable relatives will keep readers engaged in this who done it.. Will Katherine keep her wits or is she truly going mad? An interesting 19th century murder mystery with a plucky heroine whose farm girl roots will serve her well.

The fast paced writing and interesting plot keeps this historical novel appealing to a broad audience of young readers.

Overall Book Score: good