Wrapped (Wrapped, #1)

Jun 19, 2012 Miriam rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: mystery, victorian, ya, unfinished

I dropped this book around page 100; it was just too fluffy, while at the same time annoying.

I don't think the things I didn't like will bother every reader. My chief gripe, a common with historical fiction, is that it was just too inaccurate. The way the characters thought, the ways they interacted, their public behavior, these were just not correct for the Regency period. But obviously for people who don't know or care much about history this won't matter. It's just a deal breaker for me becau...more

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Jun 07, 2012 Kathryn rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of light mysteries, Ancient Egypt and the Regency period

Shelves: ya, audiobooks, british

3.5 STARS

I really liked the premise of this story as it includes several of my favorite topics--Regency England, Ancient Egypt, and non-violent spy stories! Also, that cover art is just gorgeous! ;-)

Unfortunately, the story didn't quite weave together all that I could wish of those rich subjects in an ultimately satisfying way, but I still enjoyed it. Too, I listened to this on audiobook and the narrator was not my favorite. I didn't like the way she read Cademan (our swoony leading man), I'm s...more

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Mar 18, 2011 Minli rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, young-adult

Agnes Wilkins is a wealthy debutante in Regency England who speaks ten languages (and counting) and has a bit of a geeky streak. Bluestocking? Sign me up! She goes to the handsome Lord Showalter's "unwrapping" party (the grotesque practice of pirating mummies out of Egyptian pyramids and unwrapping them at upper class social gatherings) and decides to nick something small--just for kicks--only to uncover a scheme bigger than she could have imagined. I love this time period, and stories about the...more

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Jul 20, 2011 Nancy O'Toole rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, library, young-adult

Agnes Wilkins is about to make her debut into society, and she has already attracted the attention of a very rich man. But Agnes, a highly educated young woman, can't help but feel unfulfilled and desires something more in life than an advantages match. Then she is invited to a party where an ancient Egyptian mummy is unwrapped by the guests. When a small stone object slips out of the mummy's wrappings, Agnes steals it without realizing why. It doesn't take long before she learns that there's mu...more Agnes Wilkins is about to make her debut into society, and she has already attracted the attention of a very rich man. But Agnes, a highly educated young woman, can't help but feel unfulfilled and desires something more in life than an advantages match. Then she is invited to a party where an ancient Egyptian mummy is unwrapped by the guests. When a small stone object slips out of the mummy's wrappings, Agnes steals it without realizing why. It doesn't take long before she learns that there's much more to this tiny object than she suspects.

There are so many reasons why I should have loved Wrapped, a Regency era historical fiction book that features a bookish heroine, a suspenseful plot, a star-crossed romance, and plenty of Jane Austen references. These are all features of books that I tend to enjoy. So why did this book ultimately fall flat for me? It wasn't poorly written, and it was well paced. Instead the problem arises from the fact that all of the elements that drew me towards this book have been better executed in other novels such as Y.S. Lee's The Agency Series, Nancy Springer's Enola Holmes novels, and Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl. In comparison, Wrapped ends up coming up a bit short.

One of the issues I had with Wrapped is it's protagonist, Agnes. I suppose it's not impossible for a seventeen-year-old girl to be well read, and known ten languages in an era where a girl's education was typically based around attracting a suitable match and running a household, but is it plausible? As a result, she can feel a little too perfect. I also found the Jane Austen quotes to be a bit tiresome after a while. The plot suffers from being too predictable. I'm not saying I saw every twist and turn coming, but it becomes obvious pretty quickly who the “bad guy” really is. The romantic subplot also left me cold. I felt as the book was often telling me about the growing affection between the couple, but I never actually felt any of it.

Wrapped isn't necessarily a bad book. It starts out promising enough, and the Egyptian angle is interesting. Unfortunately, it never ended up working out for me. I consider reading to be a very emotional experience. A book may have many of my favorite tropes, and solid writing, but if in the end I can't care about the characters, their stories, and their relationships, the book just won't work for me. Wrapped is a perfect example of this problem. I'm sorry to say that I cannot recommend this novel to others.(less)

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May 18, 2011 Ashley - Book Labyrinth rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: from-publisher, galleygrab, for-review, fave-covers

So first of all, let's comment on that GORGEOUS cover. Love it! It's not often that a cartoon/illustration cover can look YA, but this one completely does. So pretty! Second of all, I don't read a lot of historicals, but this one was great. It contained so many of my favourite things! It had a cool, forward thinking girl who I still found to be time-period appropriate. She was modern enough that readers can identify with her, but she wasn't just a modern girl transported back into a pretty dress...more

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Dec 11, 2012 Cleo rated it 4 of 5 stars

Wrapped is an engaging story set in Regency England in 1815, about a young woman named Agnes Wilkins, a debutante. But she's very intelligent, knows multiple languages, and wishes that she could take control of her own fate. "Agnes Wilkins is standing in front of an Egyptian mummy, about to make the first cut into the wrappings, about to unlock ancient (and not-so-ancient) history. Maybe you think this girl is wearing a pith helmet with antique dust swirling around her. Maybe you think she is a...more

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Jun 08, 2012 Kate rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

Wrapped is a perfect title for this book, but another good one might have been Pride and Prejudice and Mummies.

In 1815, multilingual Agnes Wilkins would much rather be traveling the world on archaeological adventures than preparing to make her debut to London society. She gets more than she bargained for when her potential suitor Lord Showalter holds a mummy unwrapping at his garden party (something that was actually a fad in the 1800s, according to the author’s note). Agnes uncovers a mysteriou...more Wrapped is a perfect title for this book, but another good one might have been Pride and Prejudice and Mummies.

In 1815, multilingual Agnes Wilkins would much rather be traveling the world on archaeological adventures than preparing to make her debut to London society. She gets more than she bargained for when her potential suitor Lord Showalter holds a mummy unwrapping at his garden party (something that was actually a fad in the 1800s, according to the author’s note). Agnes uncovers a mysterious artifact, and possibly a curse as well once a murder and burglaries start sweeping the neighborhood. Not one to ignore a mystery, Agnes aims to get to the bottom of it all…and still be home in time for tea.

What I liked: Agnes had a lot of spunk and I enjoyed her Jane Austen quotes in multiple languages. In addition, kudos to Ms. Bradbury for knowing that Austen’s books were first published anonymously. The tie-ins to the war with Napoleon was unique to this book – it seems that in many novels of the same setting, the war is barely mentioned. The ending tied up enough loose ends to satisfy me, while still leaving the door wide open for sequels, which sound more potentially interesting than the first book.

What I was not so crazy about: There is really nothing wrong with this book. My biggest problem was simply that it did not feel very original. Yes, the Egyptology plot was different, but besides that it felt quite a bit like other historical mysteries. The characters felt like archetypes, and the plot twists were fairly predictable. Lots of “talking heads” scenes, and nothing too exciting.

In short: This is a fun, very quick mystery with a bit of romance, but not outstanding. Still, I would be willing to read sequels in the future.

3 out of 5 stars.

Something similar: The Season by Sarah MacLean, The Agency series by Y.S. Lee

Something better: Sorcery and Cecelia by Caroline Stevermer and Patricia C. Wrede

Cover: I love it! I like that it’s drawn and not a photo like the vast majority of YA books today. Cover girl who looks like the main character? Also a check. Upon closer inspection, the ribbon from Agnes’ dress connects with part of the mummy’s wrapping to form the title. Very clever :)(less)

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May 04, 2012 Claudia rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-book-challenge-160-books, historical-fiction, chick-lit, ya-books

Regency YA, and a heck of a lot more fun than those historical romances you can pick up at the book store. Agnes is part of the upper crust in London, 1815. Her older brothers are playing their expected roles and now it's her turn. She's to be introduced to society and find a suitable husband, but Agnes has read too much...especially the mysterious 'A Lady' whose books are sweeping the country: Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility...but no one knows the identity of this fascinating author....more

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Apr 14, 2012 Jessica Harrison rated it 5 of 5 stars

Review via Cracking the Cover
Ancient Egypt has intrigued people since before it became “ancient.” Pyramids and mummies call to mind rituals and mystique.

“Wrapped” by Jennifer Bradbury works off of the 19th century fascination with all things ancient.

Agnes Wilkins is “of age.” The time has come for her to enter society and find a good match. Too bad she wants nothing to do with the whole process. She’d much rather further her studies.

Yet, here 17-year-old Agnes is, the center of attention during...more

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Mar 19, 2012 Kiera Beddes rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: action-adventure, historical-fiction, ya-lit

Genre: Regency England, Egyptology, historical fiction
Summary:Agnes (awful name, I know) is a well-to-do, highly educated member of the aristocracy. She is about ready for her debut into society. Along comes an Egyptian mystery with ties to Napoleon, the Rosetta Stone, Jane Austen and everything in between. Kind of a mash-up but still works somehow.
Response: I enjoyed this book. It has a smart heroine (a little unbelievable, a teenager in high society who knew 10 languages?) Please. Cool, but wo...more

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Dec 18, 2011 Martha rated it 4 of 5 stars

On page 115, "Alexander the Great went to the Oracle at Delphi to receive his prophecy, ordering the seer to tell his generals who'd accompanied him that he could not be defeated in battle. The Oracle inhaled the vapors at the altar and foretold teh exact place and time of Alexander's death....he held a knife to her throat in front of his men, she said exactly what he (Alexander)wanted them to hear." And so goes the reason that Agnes and Caedmon must not only discover the "standard" but determin...more

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Dec 15, 2011 Ann Carpenter rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

Where do I begin with this book? I don't think I would have even finished it if I hadn't been listening on audiobook and in the car for a long ride anyway. It was so frustrating! Agnes, the main character, was never convincing as a member of her era. The book is set in 1815, yet Agnes repeatedly (as in over, and over, and over!) comments that museums should not be appropriating artifacts from other countries because the items should remain in their original countries. Um, that is NOT a period co...more Where do I begin with this book? I don't think I would have even finished it if I hadn't been listening on audiobook and in the car for a long ride anyway. It was so frustrating! Agnes, the main character, was never convincing as a member of her era. The book is set in 1815, yet Agnes repeatedly (as in over, and over, and over!) comments that museums should not be appropriating artifacts from other countries because the items should remain in their original countries. Um, that is NOT a period concept. The author tries to pretend that Agnes is just a rogue thinker by having other characters react to this with various degrees of outrage and scorn, but it doesn't work. The viewpoint is far too modern to have any place in this book. Agnes also disdains the ways in which wealthy women marry for money and prestige rather than for love. I'm sure that some girls did question this, but for Agnes it is never really a question, more an obvious worldview she has a hard time seeing past. Why doesn't everyone just agree with her??? She throws all propriety out the window in her quest to solve the problem, which is good for drama, but is not in keeping with her time period. Yes, all ends happily, but in real life she should have been far more anxious about the consequences. in real history she would not have been rewarded the way that she is, she would have been locked up by her parents. Reputation was far, far more important for wealthy young women in that era. In real life there simply were no other options aside from marriage. If you ruined your chances at marriage, you were a burden on your family. Yet Agnes never even hesitates to ditch her chaperone, run around at night with strange men, or dress inappropriately. And apparently her father is okay with that???

Agnes is also extremely self-absorbed. She is supposed to be nearly 17, but she acts far more like a 13 year old. An immature 13 year old. She's impulsive (which is not always a bad thing for a character) but she also refuses to admit her own mistakes. She's sullen and petty on several occasions. For instance, she knows that there is a threat to national security during a time of war, and yet she doesn't tell her father the minister anything about it because she's pissed off that he brushed her off while conferring with others over something he saw as both extremely important and not a concern of hers. When he later found out that it did concern her, he apologized, but she didn't forgive him. She was too intent on solving the mystery and getting all of the glory to "prove herself" to consider asking for help from people who were far more qualified to figure things out. Later she purposefully picks a fight in public with the socially impossible boy she likes essentially because he is doing a great job of staying poker faced when she shows up with the man she's supposed to marry. It is hugely important that their relationship stay secret, both for social reasons and for national security, and yet here is Agnes throwing a tantrum because the boy is not making it obvious that this is awkward for him.

Agnes is supposed to be this great scholar, and yet we never ever see her do anything smart. She can translate in several languages, which is a nifty skill, but she never uses any reasoning or logical thought at all. Even the villain, in his stereotypically bombastic reveal, is all "How could you not figure this out sooner? You're so self-absorbed!"

I won't even go into the bizarre fact that the entire book revolves around finding something paranormal, despite there being no other paranormal element in the book. Something that all of the relevant characters accept as a paranormal artifact essentially without question. (Agnes does question it, very briefly, twice, and both times different people say the exact same thing "Of course I believe this! I've seen things that couldn't be explained before!" But exactly what they've seen is never mentioned and Agnes never asks.) Yet the artifact is never used. If you're not going to make the book a paranormal book, why even introduce that element at all? It just makes the characters seem silly, running around trying to get their hands on mystical juju based on no evidence whatsoever. Instead of the artifact it could easily have been some other important tool, such as a codebook or secret plans. (less)

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Dec 14, 2011 Libby rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

I have long maintained that the best pure storytelling is being done in the YA ranks. This book is a prime example. It boasts a spunky heroine fit for Jane Austin or Georgette Heyer's best works. It is set in London in 1815, when England was apprehensively expecting Napoleon to resume hostilities. Our feisty protagonist is making her debut, although she is viewing her future with some unease. She is not at all certain she wants to marry well and have the right kind of children and live the right...more

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Nov 20, 2011 Amy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Can I just gush? For hours? Because this book is worthy of years of gushing. Jennifer Bradbury states in the author’s note that she wrote this book to “[combine] my loves for the Regency period, Egyptian mythology and history, and stories featuring spies and secret agents.” Does this not sound like the most perfect combination of awesome things? And trust me, it worked. Soooo well!!
Because of my love of Jane Austen (whose works are referenced and spoken of many times throughout the story), I ado...more Can I just gush? For hours? Because this book is worthy of years of gushing. Jennifer Bradbury states in the author’s note that she wrote this book to “[combine] my loves for the Regency period, Egyptian mythology and history, and stories featuring spies and secret agents.” Does this not sound like the most perfect combination of awesome things? And trust me, it worked. Soooo well!!
Because of my love of Jane Austen (whose works are referenced and spoken of many times throughout the story), I adore any story set in the same time period. In the very first scene of the book, Agnes is reading Mansfield Park. Right there, I knew I would love her. She goes on to quote Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility.

The start is like many regency books with the girl getting ready for her debut and dislikes all the fuss over husband-hunting. Agnes was on the more romantic side of that rebellion though, in that she longed for a Jane Austen-like romance, not something set up and based on social standing. She was also not in complete rebellion over the season. While she disliked the stress over it, she was not as “oh goodness I will rebel against everything” like some regency heroines (see “The Season” “Bewitching Season” etc.). Agnes held her parents in high respect and wanted to please them. If this involved marrying some random guy, then she would, albeit begrudgingly, do it.

However from this typical beginning we get all Egypt-crazy and have a mummy unwrapping (which I never knew was “a thing” back then!) at a high-class party. Here is were she sees a mysterious young man for the first time, and we all just *know* that he’s her destined true match (and how right we are). Because while Lord Showalter might be the most eligible man in London, for all his impressive qualities (and big ego) we know he’s not her man.

I don’t want to ruin too much of the mystery and excitement of the storyline for you, but let me say, it’s pretty fantastic. Understanding Egypt's history more and the effect Napoleon had on the people of England was fantastic. She only took a few liberties which she explains at the end. Mostly the deviations were all “fixed” by the end of the novel. I love historical novels as long as they are creative enough, and this was SO creative.

The “mysterious young man” is Caedmon who, as a male lead, is pretty awesome. He’s the “not so rich” guy who falls for the rich girl, and holds out hope that it will all work out. I loved him for his intelligence, his confidence, and his spirit. He was so normal, I loved it! Even though this normal-ness made him a flatter character in general, I do think he compliments Agnes perfectly and is just a great guy.

She is totally setting this up for more books!! I’m so happy!! At least, the ending makes it seem like they could have many adventures. Although, it might be a way to end the book and give the readers knowledge of the characters’ future events. But I hope she writes more books about Agnes. She gave herself so much to write off of, and her characters are so amazing that more books are definitely needed!

As you can obviously tell, I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. Go read it.

P.S. The cover??? It’s completely gorgeous!! I would have read it just for the cover. . .
P.P.S. I read this in one day. Got it from the library at five and read it pretty much since then till about 10. It was THAT good.

Content Warning: Infrequent language (about two different words used around two-three times each). (less)

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Nov 04, 2011 Christine Edison rated it 4 of 5 stars

What a fun read! I liked the period details of this book and liked the character of the strong-willed heroine, although I got distracted by her name. The romance was fun, and I like the hint that there might be more books to come.

Agnes Wilkins is a debutante in London in 1815. For her debut, her mother has accepted an invitation to the unwrapping of an Egyptian mummy at a neighbor's party. (According to the author's note at the end of the book, unwrapping parties were known in England at the tim...more

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Oct 19, 2011 Majanka rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure, historical-fiction, teen, romance

Wrapped provides a mixture of Regency fiction, Egyptology and a suspense novel. Since I love the Regency period – doesn’t everyone? – and I absolutely adore Egypt (mummies, ancient curses, pyramids, need I say more?), and I occasionally enjoy a nice suspense novel, I was pretty certain that Wrapped would be a perfect source of entertainment for me. I have to admit that although it wasn’t exactly what I suspected it to be – I had anticipated more paranormal stuff, and an actual curse for one – it...more Wrapped provides a mixture of Regency fiction, Egyptology and a suspense novel. Since I love the Regency period – doesn’t everyone? – and I absolutely adore Egypt (mummies, ancient curses, pyramids, need I say more?), and I occasionally enjoy a nice suspense novel, I was pretty certain that Wrapped would be a perfect source of entertainment for me. I have to admit that although it wasn’t exactly what I suspected it to be – I had anticipated more paranormal stuff, and an actual curse for one – it does turn out an amusing and entertaining read.

Agnes Wilkins is a young debutante in London’s society in the early 19th century. But unlike other debutantes, she isn’t interested in parties, meeting a suitable husband or what dress she’s going to wear, and she’s not really looking forward to Lord Showalter’s party. When the party opens with the unwrapping of an Egyptian mummy, Agnes actually feels bad for disrupting the latter’s millenia-long sleep. She retrieves an object from the mummy and fails to put it back later on when they discover they are in fact unwrapping the wrong mummy. Afterwards, strange things start to happen. A mysterious guy follows Agnes in the gardens and is later found falling of a carriage and breaking his neck. Various party attendants get a visit from burglars, and even Agnes’ own home isn’t safe from intriduers. Obviously the mummy’s curse is either real, or someone is looking for something that was attached to the money. It doesn’t take long before Agnes realizes the object she possesses might very well be what the culprit is looking for. She travels to the British Museum and asks the help of Caedmon, a newbie Egyptologist who also happens to be working on Rosetta’s Stone. The object she retrieved from the mummy holds a special message, and it’s not one related to a mummy curse. It’s actually one that could be very helpful for the French general, Napoleon, and one that cannot fall in the wrong hands. Agnes and Caedmon must find the object the French are looking for, before they find it. Because that could very well mean the end of the British Empire…

The storyline isn’t really that original, but it was fun nevertheless. It reminded me of those books like National Treasure, and a bit like Dan Brown for middlegraders or something. It was amusing though. I really had no idea that in 19th century London people actually held mummy unwrappings at parties. I was aware of their obsession with the occult and supernatural, but I didn’t think they’d take it that far. I love it when I learn something new from a book. Also, the general fear in the public for the great French general Napoleon, was something I never even stopped to think about. Naturally, by practically resurrecting from the dead (not literally though) not once, but twice Napoleon certainly was a worthy and fearsome opponent. I can imagine that the superstitious lot living in the era would see him as either working for the devil, the devil in disguise, or a practically mythological figure who proved to be undefeatable.

Agnes is a very intriguing heroine. She is courageous with her heart in the right spot, straight-forward (especially for those days) and very intelligent. She can solve riddles without much hassle, and she has an interest in all things historical and/or mysterious. I really liked the fact that she doesn’t regard some things like other people do. For instance, the mummies in the museum, or the pieces of century-old temples displayed there. Agnes’ opinion is that they should have remained where they belonged, and where they have been for all those years. Naturally, she’d like to see a mummy once or twice, but preferably while travelling to Egypt and visiting the pyramids, not in some dusty museum in the middle of London.

I also really liked Caedmon’s personality. He is a struggling beginner in the field of Egyoptology, forced to dust off ancient mummies on a daily basis while he would probably prefer working on deciphering Rosetta’s Stone. Although he knows his place, and that he certainly isn’t the appropriate match for a girl like Agnes, he cannot help but fall in love with her. And I can’t blame him – she is an amazing person. I loved how Caedmon was so passionate about his work, and how he was actually quite courageous and brave as well. He ended up being one of my all-time favorite love interests for book heroines. I might be a bit biased because I’m a big fan of Egypt as well, and I would love to work at the British Museum, trying to figure out the mystery of the Rosetta Stone, or basically just dusting off ancient mummies. Sounds like the perfect profession for me.

Wrapped was full of suspense and mystery. My heartbeat trippled halfway the novel when I was getting really anxious on whether or not Agnes and Caedmon would be able to escape from the people searching them. It reads a bit like Agatha Christie for middlegraders, without the occasional murder that needs solving of course. Although it isn’t highly original, I did really enjoy reading this book, and I found Agnes to be a very loveable character. As a sucker for romance, I was most pleased with the way things turned out. The only downside is that some parts of the book were rather predictable – I knew who the villain was all along – but since it’s aimed at YA/MG, younger teenagers might not figure it out that easily.

Also, I would like to congratulate the illustrators on doing a marvellous job with this book. I really love the design of the cover. It’s a beautiful illustration, and it really fits with the general light-hearted and aimed at middlegraders style of the book.

If you like a good suspenseful novel with a fast-pace, interesting characters and a humorous undertone, then Wrapped definetely is a great choice. It’s a light and fast read, but it will pull you through a rollercoaster of events from a mummy unwrapping to a century-old mystery to a French general who needs to be defeated at all cost. And did I mention the occasional sparks between two of the most likeable heroes out there?(less)

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Oct 03, 2011 Hylary Locsin rated it 3 of 5 stars

Originally posted on my blog: http://libraryladyhylary.blogspot.com ! Check it out for more reviews!

In 1815 London, seventeen-year-old Agnes Wilkins is about to make her debut into society in hopes of making a good match. Agnes, however, would rather spend her time studying languages and reading books by her favorite author, A Lady (actually Jane Austen), than fret over her debut gown like her mother. To make matters worse, Agnes has attracted the attentions of a very rich suitor, Lord Showalter...more Originally posted on my blog: http://libraryladyhylary.blogspot.com ! Check it out for more reviews!

In 1815 London, seventeen-year-old Agnes Wilkins is about to make her debut into society in hopes of making a good match. Agnes, however, would rather spend her time studying languages and reading books by her favorite author, A Lady (actually Jane Austen), than fret over her debut gown like her mother. To make matters worse, Agnes has attracted the attentions of a very rich suitor, Lord Showalter, who seems intent on marrying her. One night at a party held by Showalter, Agnes and the other guests are invited to partake in the unwrapping of a mummy in hopes of finding treasures and trinkets to take home. Agnes does find a trinket, a small item in the shape of a dog's head. Intrigued by the item, Agnes decides to keep it even when Lord Showalter suddenly announces that the mummy in question is not the correct specimen and all of the trinkets must be returned. After the party, however, inexplicable things start occurring and Agnes' social circle begins to believe that a mummy's curse has been wrought upon their group. Agnes isn't convinced, and begins to believe that the strange things that have been happening are actually part of a plot by Napoleon to infiltrate London. Agnes is determined to thwart the plot and, together with the handsome Caedmon who she meets at the British Museum, pushes the concerns about her debut aside to find out the truth of the "mummy's curse."

Chock full of Jane Austen references, this fun historical mystery is a must read for any fans of the Regency time period. Bradbury does an excellent job of integrating the adventure aspects of the story with the more Austen-like plotline of Agnes' impending engagement to Lord Showalter. Agnes is a very likable protagonist and Bradbury makes a point to highlight the fact that her leading lady is not only beautiful but brave and intelligent. Through Agnes, Bradbury also comments on the life of women during this time period as well, and how society was far from equitable. The inclusion of Napoleon and his antics are a good introduction for younger readers who might not be familiar with all of the intrigue surrounding the controversial Emperor. Serving both as a history lesson, homage to Jane Austen, and fun mystery, Wrapped is an excellent choice for both teen and adult readers.

This was a fun book, and I especially loved all the Jane Austen references! Jennifer Bradbury does a good job of combining the adventure elements with Regency society, and throws in some Napoleon too. Overall, a fun story that can be enjoyed by Jane Austen fans of all ages!

(less)

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Aug 08, 2011 Sarai rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult-romance, young-adult-fiction, romance-historical, mystery, historical

I would have given this book a 3.5 star rating.

I read this three weeks ago and haven't had time to come write about it, so I don't remember lots. I remember that the story was all right. There were a couple of places where I was irritated by the stereotypical romance novel plot devices - the girl dresses as a boy and then the girl goes wandering around in the midnight hour in London on her own thinking she's safe because she's dressed as a boy. PUH-LEEZE. And, the fellow she is meeting does not...more I would have given this book a 3.5 star rating.

I read this three weeks ago and haven't had time to come write about it, so I don't remember lots. I remember that the story was all right. There were a couple of places where I was irritated by the stereotypical romance novel plot devices - the girl dresses as a boy and then the girl goes wandering around in the midnight hour in London on her own thinking she's safe because she's dressed as a boy. PUH-LEEZE. And, the fellow she is meeting does not recognize that it is her, though everyone else she runs into does. Really? This plot device went out in the 1980s. Can't we find a better way to have the girl join in the action?

Other than that, the story was not bad. There were some good parts and some dull parts. It was not difficult to figure out who the bad guy was. I did like the characters. There was some interesting historical information thrown into the mix. So a solid 3.5.

Product Description
Agnes Wilkins is standing in front of an Egyptian mummy, about to make the first cut into the wrappings, about to unlock ancient (and not-so-ancient) history.

Maybe you think this girl is wearing a pith helmet with antique dust swirling around her.

Maybe you think she is a young Egyptologist who has arrived in Cairo on camelback.

Maybe she would like to think that too. Agnes Wilkins dreams of adventures that reach beyond the garden walls, but reality for a seventeen-year-old debutante in 1815 London does not allow for camels—or dust, even. No, Agnes can only see a mummy when she is wearing a new silk gown and standing on the verdant lawns of Lord Showalter’s estate, with chaperones fussing about and strolling sitar players straining to create an exotic “atmosphere” for the first party of the season. An unwrapping.

This is the start of it all, Agnes’s debut season, the pretty girl parade that offers only ever-shrinking options: home, husband, and high society. It’s also the start of something else, because the mummy Agnes unwraps isn’t just a mummy. It’s a host for a secret that could unravel a new destiny—unleashing mystery, an international intrigue, and possibly a curse in the bargain.

Get wrapped up in the adventure . . . but keep your wits about you, dear Agnes. (less)

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Aug 07, 2011 LJ rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: young-adult

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

Wrapped is the story of teenager Agnes Wilkins, upper crust young lady from England getting ready for her big debut into society. She is privileged yes, but also manages to display a good deal of independence as she teams up with a young man from the lower classes to solve the mystery that is thrust upon her when she finds, and subsequently hides, a curious Egyptian artifact.

If you like romantic period stories with allusions to Jane Austen (referred to using her pseudonym, "a lady"), and filled

...more

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Jul 17, 2011 Shadee rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Sally Lockhart fans, Enola Holmes fans

Shelves: adventure, girl, historical-world, spies, teen

This cover completely caught my eye! As a lover of anything Egyptology related I was intrigued by the inside flap description of a young girl on the edge of her debut attending a mummy unwrapping party that leads to mystery, intrigue and spies.

The debutante, Agnes, is highly unusual for her time. She's extremely educated, fluent in 10 languages, has a mind of her own and has a father that rewards her curiosity with tutors and exotic gifts from his travels. Her mother is focused on her debut and...more

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May 29, 2011 Rachael rated it 5 of 5 stars

Agnes Wilkins is not your typical debutante in 1815 London. She’ll endure the dress fittings, make polite conversation, and attend all the events of the season to please her mother, but she’d much rather be reading a book, learning new languages, or traveling to exotic locales. Unfortunately, Agnes’s inclinations aren’t the most acceptable according to the rules for women of high society, so she’s forced to submit to the dullness of her first season. But after the first party of the season, an u...more

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May 22, 2011 Beth Flynn rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Lovers of Philip Pullman's Sally Lockhart series

Shelves: sunshy-read, netgalley, kindle

Review copy received from Simon and Schuster’s GalleyGrab

I was initially drawn to Wrapped by the cover (drawn, get it? Oh… ok…) – it’s definitely eye-catching and different from other titles I’ve seen on bookshelves (or Amazon) recently! Girl i beautiful dress, oriental-styled wallpaper, and… a mummy? Nice. Intriguing. Definitely something worth picking up, in my opinion.

Happily, this did prove to be the case. Agnes Wilkins is a good heroine; she has the scholarly “I can learn it if I try!” atti...more Review copy received from Simon and Schuster’s GalleyGrab

I was initially drawn to Wrapped by the cover (drawn, get it? Oh… ok…) – it’s definitely eye-catching and different from other titles I’ve seen on bookshelves (or Amazon) recently! Girl i beautiful dress, oriental-styled wallpaper, and… a mummy? Nice. Intriguing. Definitely something worth picking up, in my opinion.

Happily, this did prove to be the case. Agnes Wilkins is a good heroine; she has the scholarly “I can learn it if I try!” attitude of Jane Eyre, the “You’re a man, yes, but hah – I am a woman and my speech will prove just how good a thing that is!” bearing of Lizzy Bennet, and something else quite her own that I can’t put my finger on. In other words, Agnes is very believable as a 17 year-old debutante in the London of 1815: she might not be the typical debutante, with her 10 languages (slightly excessive, even for the most accomplished young lady!) and largely uncontrollable hair, but she seems true enough to what readers of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters will expect and enjoy in a heroine.

The historical accuracy is mentioned in Jennifer’s author’s note – and she makes a good case for the slight liberties taken. I’m by no means a history buff when it comes to the early 19th century (nor, actually, to any one of the Egyptian dynasties!) but perhaps my love of history (550AD-1550AD) did speed me through the pages! The British Museum, Egyptian curses, Napoleon and Wellington waging tidal warfare, spies, and debutante dress-fittings mix together seamlessly in this page-turner.

Recommendation: If you’ve read and loved Philip Pullman’s Sally Lockhart mysteries, then this may be right up your street. My feeling is that the intended audience for Wrapped in younger (it’s more chaste than Pride and Prejudice – no Wickham-esque cad whisks unsuspecting ladies to London or Ramsgate!) but the enterprising quick-wittedness of posh-but-sensible Sally and poor-but-clever Jim mirrors the relationship between Agnes and Caedmon marvellously!

Rating: 4/5

Sidenote – I loved the use of the name Caedmon just for making me think of the Anglo-Saxon poet! Not enough YA books end up with me nodding sagely about Old English poetry. Also, the mere mention of using knitting needles as deadly weapons always delights me slightly too much as an idea!(less)

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Mar 14, 2013 Emily Ever rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: bad-ass-females, historical, ya

This book was great! The story really kept me engaged throughout and I love the cover! I liked the glimpse into a society that had 'unwrapping' parties for mummies. That's just... cray cray. The historical context was very interesting and really played a integral part in the story.

The whole part about the heroine just having natural spy-like abilities was a little far fetched, not gonna lie.

I think Caedmon could have been developed a little more as a character, there was a lot of telling and not...more

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Jun 23, 2012 Jan rated it 3 of 5 stars

In 1815 London, a popular party event was an "unwrapping" -- of a mummy! When archaeologists first discovered Egyptian mummies, there were so many of them that they were sold like jewelry, scarabs, and other artifacts from the tombs. Grisly as it may seem, affluent Londoners found the unwrappings to be exotic and exciting.

Seventeen-year-old Agnes Wilkins finds herself at an unwrapping just before her presentation as a debutant in London's high society. The experience leaves her dreaming of forei...more

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Jul 31, 2012 Jasmine rated it 4 of 5 stars

I'm happy to say I adored this novel. I was surprised by some of the harsher reviews on it, but found myself in love with every page. I really enjoyed the setting, and actually was entranced by the unique language, although some phrases and words were confusing at times. Despite this, I felt like I was immersing myself in truly a whole new world, and a whole different time, so I really never knew what to expect. Even the theme of Egypt and its curses and mysteries, integrated into the theme of a...more I'm happy to say I adored this novel. I was surprised by some of the harsher reviews on it, but found myself in love with every page. I really enjoyed the setting, and actually was entranced by the unique language, although some phrases and words were confusing at times. Despite this, I felt like I was immersing myself in truly a whole new world, and a whole different time, so I really never knew what to expect. Even the theme of Egypt and its curses and mysteries, integrated into the theme of an 1815 England, created a magnificent setting detailing not one but two different cultures and civilizations.

The idea itself of ladylike teas and frilly dresses was quite appealing to me (my personal taste though), as it is so different from our current day and age consisting of sweats and jeans. In addition, I absolutely was swept away by the unexpected connection between Agnes and Caedmon. Although she eyed him from the moment she saw him, I truly did not think much of it, considering it seemed as if they would never see each other again.

The only problem I had with the novel was Agnes' naive personality. I'm pretty sure I figured out who was behind you-know-what (trying not to give any spoilers here) long before she did. Plus, I must admit the ending was a bit too abrupt. I mean, the last chapter of full on action and surprise and twists and turns leads to.... "Several months later." What? Honestly, it seemed strange to me for there to be such a large time shift, and I was left feeling as if I'd lost something precious.

Unfortunately, the ending was also quite cheesy if I do say so myself. I'll simply say I love a happy ending as much as the next person (possibly more), but this ending almost seemed too far-fetched to be believable. However, after reading the note by the author at the end of the book speaking about the reality of situations such as Agnes' in real life, I loosened up to the idea a bit more.

All in all, I loved the book, with its very comfortable pace, which allowed sufficient character development for not only major, but also minor characters, who truly made the story whole. I can't tell you how many stories I've read that actually placed too much focus on the major characters, leaving bits and pieces where minor characters should have held their own. Bradbury did a wonderful job of painting a beautiful setting, with beautiful relationships that form with ease and believability. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an Egyptian or traditional English civilization kick (you never know, it could really spark some historic interest - I myself did some research on the practices of the Egyptians while reading), or even a simply adorable love story.(less)

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May 02, 2012 Jaime Leroy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: middle-school, high-school

This book takes place in 1815 in London. Agnes is seventeen years old and about to enter her debutant season. At the first party of the year, Lord Showalter has a mummy brought to the house for an “unwrapping”. Although appalled by the prospect of unwrapping a mummy, Agnes does just that at Lord Showalter’s request (afterall, he is the match her mother wants her to make). But when Agnes finds something hidden in the wrapping that could mean terrible things for England, we enter a mystery filled...more

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Aug 18, 2011 Shannon rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone

Shelves: all-time-faves, absolute-favourites

Wrapped is a cute little novel that draws on themes from jane Austen's novels, as well as a bit of National Treasure. I loved how Bradbury wove the threads of this story together to create a intelligent, intriguing and entertaining masterpeice. Theres also a cute little romance thrown in as well :-D

Agnes is not your typical 19th century lady. She may appear delicate and fragile, but she proves continually throughout this book that she is anything but. And she is also extremely integlligent! toge...more

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Jun 30, 2011 TheBookSmugglers rated it 3 of 5 stars

Review originally posted on: http://thebooksmugglers.com/2011/06/b...

Agnes Wilkins is sixteen, about to make her societal debut, and more than a little terrified at the prospect of coming out on the marriage market. Though Agnes is excited to attend parties, wear fancy dresses, loves her parents and is willing to emulate their dutiful roles in the peerage, she can’t help but feel that she isn’t quite ready for a husband. She longs for the adventure and romance she reads of in her darling A Lady...more

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May 18, 2012 Mandi Ellsworth added it

This is a murder mystery set in Regency England. It's the time of Napoleon, a London Season, gentlemen in brightly colored satin pants. A 17 year old socialite is on the verge of her presentation to the Prince of Wales, when she's invited to her first party of the season: an "unwrapping". Her neighbor has acquired a real Egyptian mummy and has made it part of the festivities to take the wrappings off the thing to see what treasures they find. It just so happens they find a few things. One thing...more

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May 22, 2011 the golden witch. rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: galley-grab-and-pulse-it, 2011, arc-galley, ebook, gods-and-monsters, history, magical-reality, teenage-shennanigans, reviewed

(Note: actual rating is 3.5, but I rounded it up to 4 here on the goodreads scale.)

While not as exciting as some of the debut class of 2011 books that have come out/are coming out this year, “Wrapped” is still a solid, fun story that melds YA with historical fiction with mystery, bringing the reader into the age of Napoleon’s domination of Europe.

This story was a bit slow to get started with, and it was hard to concentrate on Agnes’ story with so much going on around her — it was like one sound...more (Note: actual rating is 3.5, but I rounded it up to 4 here on the goodreads scale.)

While not as exciting as some of the debut class of 2011 books that have come out/are coming out this year, “Wrapped” is still a solid, fun story that melds YA with historical fiction with mystery, bringing the reader into the age of Napoleon’s domination of Europe.

This story was a bit slow to get started with, and it was hard to concentrate on Agnes’ story with so much going on around her — it was like one sound nearly drowning out another. But once it did get started, “Wrapped” was a great rollercoaster ride of a book, with lots of mystery being layered upon actual history and the fad of archeology as it was at the time. However, the story of Agnes trying to find the spy while stopping Napoleon and the Egyptian curse all the while trying to stop her own societal debut/marriage into the upper class made me feel like I was being pulled in all directions and, like the beginning, it made it hard to focus and puzzle out which what I should be paying attention to and giving priority to over the other mini-arcs in the storyline.

And then there is the character of Agnes, herself: she’s very self-absorbed, and her treatment of both men competing for her affections isn’t wonderful. Unfortunately, I grew up with quite a few girls much like her, and maybe my own experience soured my fictional one with Agnes in this book. She’s a teenager, so it’s okay for her to be confused and constantly changing her mind, but it got to the point where I wasn’t sure if she was sure what she wanted at all — did she just want to make Caedmon jealous? Was she wholeheartedly trying to commit herself to save her country out of patriotism, or was it just another way to get out of being married off? Did she like Caedmon at all? All of these questions made it very difficult for me to emotionally connect with her. Luckily, toward the end of the novel, she starts to solidify into a single person instead of all of these personality traits, but it’s a bit too little, too late.

And then there is Showalter — you do kind of get the feeling that he’s really pretty slimy right from the beginning. As a tangible villain, Bradbury does a really good job in establishing his position early on and keeps him constant and reliable in his role. As for the ending, you could see it coming with him being the traitor while Caedmon and Agnes try to save the day. It felt a bit contrived, but at least he was the most reliable of the characters aside from poor, mistreated Caedmon.

With all of that said, “Wrapped” is written well. The prose is lovely and it definitely pops you right into that time period. But with the confused subplots, I just couldn’t let myself escape into the high stakes of saving England through one single educated rich girl. Still, give it a read — I’m very picky, so this could all just be me — and judge for yourself.

(crossposted to shelfari and witchoftheatregoing.wordpress.com)(less)

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