These works of faux Victoriana really grab me. Fans of The Strange Case of Origami Yoda should be prepared, this is nothing like that. This is more like The Wooden Mile. It's a Dickensian tale of a poor scullery boy, with dastardly plans that need thwarting, and many chances to prove clever and resourceful. And, there are shipless pirates, which I find hilarious.

My favorite bit: the shout outs to other beloved writers. Attending the costume ball are Lady Aiken dressed as a wolf, Lord Alexander dressed as Puss in Boots, and the Empress of Blandings dressed as a pig.

Silly fun. Recommended for fans of The Mysterious Howling (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #1).

Library copy