Murder, Magic, and what we wore

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 8, 2018

Review

Set in Regency England. While coping with the sudden news that her traveling father has been murdered,recently orphaned teenager, Annis Whitworth discovers that she can make garments change with "glamour" magic into useful disguises. She refuses to succumb to the expected paths of being a governess, maid or convenient wife by opening a shop rumored to provide "glamour services" when her initial goal to become a spy for the war office, like her father, is thwarted. With the help of her maid named Millie and under the secret protection of a spymaster, Annis tries to navigate the dangerous ways of a spy while sewing ballgowns. All the main characters are female and the thread throughout this historical mystery/fantasy novel is a "poking fun at" gender expectations with real historical figures making appearances. An entertaining read for historical fiction or mystery readers in middle grades and high school.

Overall Book Score: very good