by Stephanie Burgis
Publisher: Atheneum
Release Date: April 5, 2011
Source: sent by publisher
My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Summary from goodreads.com:
Twelve-year-old Kat
Stephenson may be the despair of her social-climbing Step-Mama, but she
was born to be a magical Guardian and protector of Society--if she can
ever find true acceptance in the secret Order that expelled her own
mother. She’s ready to turn the hidebound Order of the Guardians
inside-out, whether the older members like it or not. And in a society
where magic is the greatest scandal of all, Kat is determined to use all
her powers to help her three older siblings--saintly Elissa,
practicing-witch Angeline, and hopelessly foolish Charles--find their
own true loves, even if she has to turn highwayman, battle wild magic,
and confront real ghosts along the way!
My Review:
I remember wanting to read this one under it's original title "A Most Improper Magick." As a huge fan of historical romance, I thought it was great fun to see the Regency Era with it's ballrooms, carriages, and adorable suitors, from the eyes of a twelve year old.
There was a slight Cinderella slant to the story, with Kat's at times annoying two sisters, and her almost evil stepmama. I think this element will greatly appeal to younger girls. Sometimes the magical element seemed a little overdone and slightly confusing, but I liked the general idea of Kat having magical powers.
The two boys who Kat encourages to court her sisters are just too adorable for words. Mr. Carlyle was especially cute as a love potion victim. And Kat's exasperation with Mr. Collingswood's various shortcomings was quite entertaining.
Kat was a super heroine and she had so much self-confidence! She was so confident and sure of herself that it was a little funny sometimes, but still, I think this is a fantastic trait to nurture in girls that age. Kat knows what she wants and she doesn't even think twice before going after it.
The door is wide open for a sequel, I can't imagine what Kat will be up to next!
Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5 (Kat's sisters)
Uniqueness: 4/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Bottom Line: This is a fun historical romp that is perfect for middle grade girls and I think older fans of Regency book will get a kick out of Kat's story too.
I haven't read this book yet but my sister has. Like you, she loved it too. I don't read MG novels, but I really want to read this one.
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful. I have been seeing this book around and perhaps I should give it a shot. Such a lovely review and the breakdown is just icing on the cupcake!
ReplyDeleteHelen of Troy by Margaret George is a lengthy book. All of her books could be considered weapons of mass destruction but they are wonderful historical. The depth and detail that she puts into her books is incredible. You must be willing to put in the time.
Mad Scientist
I just started this last night, and I'm loving it already.
ReplyDeleteGreat review.
This looks SO cute. I need to try it.
ReplyDeleteI want to read this! The cover is gorgeous. I enjoy stories set in Regency England. Glad to hear there's a sequel!
ReplyDeleteI absolutely love the cover and title of this. It just captivates fun! I have wanted to read it for a while now and am going to have to get a copy to share with my daughter. Great review!
ReplyDeleteLol, sounds sweet and fun :D
ReplyDeleteSounds like a fun read! I might have to look into this book!
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