Murder, Magic, and What We Wore

June 15, 2017
"Women's work" is a weapon in this female-centric spy novel set in the Regency era.Annis Whitworth's father has died, leaving the white English teen and her aunt--her only living relative--penniless. What is a destitute lady of quality and intelligence to do? Serving as governess to small children will not do, nor will being a lady's companion. And marriage is out of the question. While altering a dreadful pre-made mourning gown, Annis discovers she's a glamour artist. She can transform any article of clothing into a disguise, a talent fit for a spy. Annis' father was a spy, so why shouldn't she be one as well? She heads to the War Office to offer her services, but she's dismissed as a silly girl. With mounting debts, Annis, Aunt Cassia, and their maid Millie move to Flittingsworth, where Annis sets up shop as Madame Martine, glamour modiste. When a real threat looms, Annis hopes she can convince the War Office to hire Madame Martine to wield her powers for England. Annis and Cassia and their unmarried female associates (all evidently white) defy 19th-century gender conventions with their independence, intellect, and daring. Tongue-in-cheek commentary on the state of womanhood dominates the narrative, and the story's most meaningful relationships are those among the women of the story. Cameos from history, classic literature, and modern Regency novels for young readers add fizz for those in the know. A great deal of fun, one stitch at a time. (author's note) (Historical fantasy. 12-18)

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Starred review from July 1, 2017

Gr 9 Up-A cross between Jane Austen dramas and Harriet the Spy, this delightful strong female-led title mixes historical fiction and spy mystery with a touch of magic to produce a story filled with adventure. Sixteen-year-old Annis Whitworth leads a privileged existence in 19th-century London when she learns about her father's tragic death. Suspecting foul play, she sets out to discover the truth behind his mysterious accident and his peripatetic lifestyle. Placing herself on a dangerous path that reveals secrets she may not be prepared to hear, Annis, along with her daring maid, Millie, sets herself up as a disguised dressmaker in a suburb of London. Using her newfound talent to sew magical glamours, which create alternative identities, Annis goes to extremes to get the answers she wants. Though her aunt and guardian, Cassia, appears to be unaware of Annis's exploits, she reveals herself to be a larger part of the puzzle than Annis could ever have imagined. Rejecting conventions of the time period, Jones infuses her female characters with boldness, intelligence, and wit. The heroine is not shy about devouring food and has aspirations that do not involve marrying a rich man, making this a refreshing take on women in the 1800s. The quirky humor further enhances the book. VERDICT Teens will find this a perfect, modern introduction to Regency novels that portrays confident female role models. An excellent addition to high school libraries.-Karin Greenberg, Queens College, NY

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