The Perils of Peppermints

September 1, 2003
In the sequel to Peppermints in the Parlor, The Perils of Peppermints by Barbara Brooks Wallace, Emily has been sent to the terrifying Mrs. Spilking's Select Academy for Young Ladies. But what is the secret Mrs. Spilking doesn't want her to learn? And why is there a bowl of forbidden peppermints, just like those from Emily's time as a servant in Sugar Hill Hall?

The tale of orphan Emily Luccock that began with PEPPERMINTS IN THE PARLOR continues in this sequel, read by Suzanne Toren. When Emily's aunt and uncle leave for a business venture in India, Emily is sent to Mrs. Spilking's Select Academy, where she and the other students must endure terrible living conditions and unfair punishment. Toren effectively evokes Emily's plucky character as she uncovers a sinister plot, learns the real reason she has been sent away, and engineers a happy resolution. Toren's earnest tone brings the right touch of innocent emotion to Emily's joys, fears, and outrage. Listeners who like gothic fiction and orphan tales will enjoy this story even if they're not familiar with the first book. R.Q.D. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine