Palace of Spies
Sixteen-year-old Peggy Fitzroy is an orphan, raised by her aunt and uncle in 1700s London. She is smart, charming, feisty, and unwilling to accept the repulsive and immoral suitor chosen for her. Angered by her refusal, her uncle throws her out. Homeless, Peggy agrees to disguise herself as a lady-in-waiting at the court of King George I, taking the name and identity of Lady Francesca Wallingham, recently deceased from supposedly natural causes. In this fashion, Peggy becomes a spy and finds herself involved in multiple mysterious and perhaps nefarious intrigues, all while falling in love with the handsome and gentlemanly artist Matthew. Zettel has created a dynamic, immensely likable heroine in Peggy, and she folds in plentiful history, both cultural and political. Clever chapter headings give a tongue-in-cheek taste of the nonstop action. Historical fiction readers will love the detailed clothing descriptions, and romantics will bask in the comfortably predictable pattern of Peggy and Matthew’s relationship. A sequel is in the works, and it will be eagerly anticipated by fans of Libba Bray. Grades 8-12. --Debbie Carton