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Palace of Spies #3
The Assassin's Masque
Things are turning around for seventeen-year-old Peggy Fitzroy, a once-orphaned spy. Her father is back from the dead, and her unwanted engagement has been called off for good. But when a mysterious veiled woman shows up, Peggy uncovers a fresh slew of questions about her past, present, and future.
Now Peggy is back at the palace, unsure of the loyalties she thought she held. With the Jacobite uprising stalking ever closer to the throne, it's imperative that Peggy discover who she can really trust. Can she save herself and the royal family, or is she doomed as a pawn in this most deadly game?
Now Peggy is back at the palace, unsure of the loyalties she thought she held. With the Jacobite uprising stalking ever closer to the throne, it's imperative that Peggy discover who she can really trust. Can she save herself and the royal family, or is she doomed as a pawn in this most deadly game?
384 pages, Hardcover
First published January 12, 2016
12 people are currently reading
416 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Zettel
64 books439 followersSarah Zettel is the critically acclaimed author of more than twenty novels, spanning the full range of genre fiction. Her debut novel, Reclamation, won the Locus Award for Best First Novel. Her second release, Fool’s War, was a 1997 New York Times Notable Book, and the American Library Association named Playing God one of the Best Books for Young Adults of 1999. Her novel Bitter Angels won the Philip K. Dick Award for best science fiction paperback in 2009. Her latest novel, Dust Girl, was named as one of the best young adult books of the year by both Kirkus Reviews and the American Library Association. Zettel lives in Michigan with her husband, her rapidly growing son, and her cat, Buffy the Vermin Slayer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 22, 2016
2.5
I was disappointed in this book, especially as a conclusion to the trilogy. Peggy just seems... not an unlikely spy, but just a bad one. She constantly dithers and it seems the people around her are really the ones who actually get anything done and solve things.
And I found the ending kind of pat. I mean
I was glad she finally let Michael in, and that whole thing was resolved.
But, honestly, I don't even remember much about the plot, having finished this less than a month ago. It just didn't leave me with all that much of an impression aside from a ho-hum sense of "is that it?".
I was disappointed in this book, especially as a conclusion to the trilogy. Peggy just seems... not an unlikely spy, but just a bad one. She constantly dithers and it seems the people around her are really the ones who actually get anything done and solve things.
And I found the ending kind of pat. I mean
I was glad she finally let Michael in, and that whole thing was resolved.
But, honestly, I don't even remember much about the plot, having finished this less than a month ago. It just didn't leave me with all that much of an impression aside from a ho-hum sense of "is that it?".
November 9, 2016
Peggy Fitzroy is supposed to be mourning her uncle, but there was no love lost between them so she is focused on protecting her aunt and keeping her cousin's temper under control. When a mysterious veiled woman shows up at the funeral, announces she knew Peggy's mother and they were "Birds of a feather", Peggy's curiosity is piqued. Her family members aren't providing any answers and there are more questions and more intrigue at court. Her Royal Highness believes that the Jacobite plot Peggy's uncle was involved in was only one strand of the web but with enemies at court, Mr. Tinderflint not answering questions and her father conspicuously missing (again), Peggy doesn't know what to think. She can't be sure she can trust her allies anymore either. She can rely only her beloved cousin Olivia and true love Matthew for help. Can they ferret out the plot without getting anyone killed?
This is a fabulous ending for Peggy's story. It kept me turning the pages and I couldn't put it down until I had finished the whole thing (past 2 am). There's lots of intrigue and adventure in this novel, plus romance and some humor. In parts it reminded me of the later Harry Potter books when Harry learns certain things about his trusted allies and himself that make him question his role in the plot to overthrow evil. Peggy finds herself in a similar situation. Like Peggy, I couldn't figure out who was telling the truth, or at least who wasn't telling the whole truth. Unlike Peggy, I knew when someone wasn't sincere but it was doubtful which of her adult allies she could trust. Even Sophy becomes an unknown factor. There is some violence and darker parts to the story but there's plenty of humor to balance it out. The Prince's masque is an especially funny section of the book, in the beginning anyway. The questions surrounding Peggy's aunt and Uncle Pierpont's mother are not fully resolved and that's the only thing I found to complain about in this review.
I love how all the characters have so much depth, even Sophy avoids becoming a cliche in this novel. I just love Peggy. She's sassy, intelligent, witty and loyal but she's not perfect. Peggy has a temper, she is unsure of herself at times, she makes mistakes and dare I say it - has nerves! I like her as she is. It makes her a fun heroine and someone readers can relate to. Her true blue cousin Olivia is a little silly, with an overactive imagination, but she's lived and sheltered and pampered life so she knows little of real life the way Peggy does. She provides a lot of the humor. I can't help but love her though. She's so much fun and her energy and enthusiasm for schemes are infectious. Sophy goes through the most character development in this novel alone. She's complicated. She actually has a lot in common with Peggy so naturally they don't get along. I was surprised at some of the things she did in this book but then not surprised by her motivation. I think she is a victim of gender roles in Georgian England and just wants to get ahead the only way she knows how, while Peggy accepts her fate as a poor orphan and anything else is a bonus. She's more tough than Sophy. The Princess of Wales is awesome. She's more shrewd and a better judge of character than her husband, she directs the spying action within the court, manages her young family, spends alone time with her husband all while ready to give birth! I must look her up and find out if she really was an amazing, strong woman.
Matthew is a swoony hero. He's too good to be true outside the pages of a book. I just loved him. He's a great boyfriend for Peggy. He loves her but understands her need to direct the action and will willingly follow her into danger and fight for her. What a guy! Peggy's father is a little mysterious. I'm not sure I really like him. He's a roguish sort of character and not much of a father. It's easy to see where Peggy gets her brains the more we learn about her parents. Mr. Tinderflint is a more complicated man than he appears at first. He is a lot like a certain character in Harry Potter. Still, I liked him a lot and didn't want to see him lose his head if things went wrong. The Prince of Wales is a simple man. He redeems himself late in the story and makes up for his bad judge of character.
The villains are pretty much the only standard characters in the book and only just barely avoid being cardboard. Julius, Lord Lynnfield, is by far the most cunning of the villains. He is ruthless and cruel. Sebastian has a very nasty temper and can't be forgiven for what he tried to do to Peggy in the first book, but I almost feel bad for him. Almost. He has a tough time as a younger son and is less hard than his brother. Mrs. [name omitted to avoid spoilers] is a crafty woman. I can not justify her actions the way Peggy seems to. Her daughter is completely mad!
This is a fun trilogy with a great heroine for anyone ages 13+. There's plenty of action for boys and romance and strong female characters for girls.
This is a fabulous ending for Peggy's story. It kept me turning the pages and I couldn't put it down until I had finished the whole thing (past 2 am). There's lots of intrigue and adventure in this novel, plus romance and some humor. In parts it reminded me of the later Harry Potter books when Harry learns certain things about his trusted allies and himself that make him question his role in the plot to overthrow evil. Peggy finds herself in a similar situation. Like Peggy, I couldn't figure out who was telling the truth, or at least who wasn't telling the whole truth. Unlike Peggy, I knew when someone wasn't sincere but it was doubtful which of her adult allies she could trust. Even Sophy becomes an unknown factor. There is some violence and darker parts to the story but there's plenty of humor to balance it out. The Prince's masque is an especially funny section of the book, in the beginning anyway. The questions surrounding Peggy's aunt and Uncle Pierpont's mother are not fully resolved and that's the only thing I found to complain about in this review.
I love how all the characters have so much depth, even Sophy avoids becoming a cliche in this novel. I just love Peggy. She's sassy, intelligent, witty and loyal but she's not perfect. Peggy has a temper, she is unsure of herself at times, she makes mistakes and dare I say it - has nerves! I like her as she is. It makes her a fun heroine and someone readers can relate to. Her true blue cousin Olivia is a little silly, with an overactive imagination, but she's lived and sheltered and pampered life so she knows little of real life the way Peggy does. She provides a lot of the humor. I can't help but love her though. She's so much fun and her energy and enthusiasm for schemes are infectious. Sophy goes through the most character development in this novel alone. She's complicated. She actually has a lot in common with Peggy so naturally they don't get along. I was surprised at some of the things she did in this book but then not surprised by her motivation. I think she is a victim of gender roles in Georgian England and just wants to get ahead the only way she knows how, while Peggy accepts her fate as a poor orphan and anything else is a bonus. She's more tough than Sophy. The Princess of Wales is awesome. She's more shrewd and a better judge of character than her husband, she directs the spying action within the court, manages her young family, spends alone time with her husband all while ready to give birth! I must look her up and find out if she really was an amazing, strong woman.
Matthew is a swoony hero. He's too good to be true outside the pages of a book. I just loved him. He's a great boyfriend for Peggy. He loves her but understands her need to direct the action and will willingly follow her into danger and fight for her. What a guy! Peggy's father is a little mysterious. I'm not sure I really like him. He's a roguish sort of character and not much of a father. It's easy to see where Peggy gets her brains the more we learn about her parents. Mr. Tinderflint is a more complicated man than he appears at first. He is a lot like a certain character in Harry Potter. Still, I liked him a lot and didn't want to see him lose his head if things went wrong. The Prince of Wales is a simple man. He redeems himself late in the story and makes up for his bad judge of character.
The villains are pretty much the only standard characters in the book and only just barely avoid being cardboard. Julius, Lord Lynnfield, is by far the most cunning of the villains. He is ruthless and cruel. Sebastian has a very nasty temper and can't be forgiven for what he tried to do to Peggy in the first book, but I almost feel bad for him. Almost. He has a tough time as a younger son and is less hard than his brother. Mrs. [name omitted to avoid spoilers] is a crafty woman. I can not justify her actions the way Peggy seems to. Her daughter is completely mad!
This is a fun trilogy with a great heroine for anyone ages 13+. There's plenty of action for boys and romance and strong female characters for girls.
March 20, 2021
For the final book in the trilogy, and the one that I was most anticipating based on the synopsis, this book was pretty disappointing. Unfortunately, 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏'𝒔 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒒𝒖𝒆 is one of those books that could’ve easily been shortened 100-150 pages. That would’ve made this book a lot better! As it is, there was so much repetition and inner monologuing from Peggy (the MC) that I was tempted to DNF this book at certain times.
I am happy that I decided to push through, though, because in the end I was satisfied with the conclusion of the story and the revelations about Peggy’s family members. The romance was really sweet in this book, and was the main thing, other than wanting to know the last of Peggy’s secrets, that kept me reading.
After finishing this trilogy, something that I find really interesting about it is that I didn’t really “feel” anything or connect to the characters like I do in other books. There was just something keeping me from really immersing myself in the books. That’s not to say that they’re bad, because they’re not, but they’re definitely different from most other books that I’ve read.
I am happy that I decided to push through, though, because in the end I was satisfied with the conclusion of the story and the revelations about Peggy’s family members. The romance was really sweet in this book, and was the main thing, other than wanting to know the last of Peggy’s secrets, that kept me reading.
After finishing this trilogy, something that I find really interesting about it is that I didn’t really “feel” anything or connect to the characters like I do in other books. There was just something keeping me from really immersing myself in the books. That’s not to say that they’re bad, because they’re not, but they’re definitely different from most other books that I’ve read.
October 31, 2019
So this was pretty good. The twists were amazing, and I was really on the edge of my seat, and pretty excited to find out what happens next. However, I was a bit disappointed by the ending. . Still, it was a pretty good and enjoyable series. However, Peggy is honestly not a good spy, Olivia is awesome, and also more suited for this than Peggy is. The family drama was...eh. But it was still enjoyable.
December 28, 2022
It has been awhile since I picked up this series, so I greatly appreciate the recap at the beginning of the book. This one picks up right where the last one left off, and it was great to visit Peggy and her friends again. So much came to a head in this book that it could be overwhelming at times, but it flowed very well and led to a satisfying conclusion. I was glad to finally get some answers on things. Highly recommend this series to those who enjoy historical mysteries and those who like reading about the 1700s (which don't show up often in historical fiction).
Winter Wonderland Reading Challenge: Read the third book in a series.
CW: animal cruelty, bullying, death of a prominent character, deceased parents, guns, kidnapping/abduction, medical procedures, murder, sexual assault (references to in past), sexual content (kissing on page, references to other acts), swearing (mild), torture, war
Winter Wonderland Reading Challenge: Read the third book in a series.
CW: animal cruelty, bullying, death of a prominent character, deceased parents, guns, kidnapping/abduction, medical procedures, murder, sexual assault (references to in past), sexual content (kissing on page, references to other acts), swearing (mild), torture, war
March 20, 2016
That was one of the most painful books I have ever read. The heroine bumbled so much it should have been a comedy. I don't know what happened to the intelligent, competent girl of the first two books. Brain aneurism? Stroke? Alien abduction? I don't know but this girl is idiotic and completely incompetent. The whole book is her stumbling from one mistake to another. She can't figure out who to trust so she betrays EVERYONE! She hands blackmail letters for the country's four most important government leaders to the biggest enemy to the Royal family she purports to loyally serve. I found myself repeatedly shaking my head, hitting my head or exclaiming omg throughout the book. It was so ridiculously imbecilic and Painful to read. I gave the first and second books 4 stars each but this gets 2-1/2 stars Tops!
February 9, 2019
This was not what I expected for the finale of this trilogy. I wanted so much more. And the book just ended so suddenly that it shocked me. So many loose ends and questions and sudden changes of heart. It just felt rushed which is unfortunate.
I still loved all the characters but I wanted so much more from the supporting characters like Olivia and Molly and Mrs. Howard, who all played a bigger role in the second book.
I still loved all the characters but I wanted so much more from the supporting characters like Olivia and Molly and Mrs. Howard, who all played a bigger role in the second book.
October 10, 2017
Margaret Preston Fitzroy is better known as Peggy. She is also a confidential agent to the crown. She always thought she was an orphan, that is, until her father resurfaced from some spy event he’d been involved in. Peggy had been thrown out of her uncle’s home because she refused to marry a man they chose for her. As a result, and in order to survive, she impersonated a Maid of Honor to Princess Caroline. Of course, this was Peggy’s undercover position and since there was a conspiracy and an over throwing of some heirs from the thrown she had a job to do. There is a new player in town, a woman with a veil. With the mystery around her uncle and her father missing again, who will Peggy be able to trust?
Author Sarah Zettel has completed this trilogy with a nice ending for the heroine. This book has everything mystery and romance readers would love. There is plenty here for boys to become engaged such as spies and royal courts. Parents and teachers will want to read this series too.
Author Sarah Zettel has completed this trilogy with a nice ending for the heroine. This book has everything mystery and romance readers would love. There is plenty here for boys to become engaged such as spies and royal courts. Parents and teachers will want to read this series too.
April 13, 2020
Peggy's father is back, but things have only become more complicated for the seventeen-year-old spy. A veiled woman has inspired more questions about her past, present, and future. When everyone around you lies, who can you trust?
I feel like this is the story where Peggy finally grows up. Her skills were put to the test, and her loyalties tested. While she has Matthew Reid by her side, she doesn't know who she can trust or who is telling her the truth. Every way she turns, she finds more questions and accusations.
It takes all the skills she has learned (and some she hasn't) for her to prevent a civil war, learn the truth about her mother, and keep herself from being killed. Her path takes her right into the heart of treason.
The writing was excellent and kept me interested from start to finish. Even I was kept guessing about who Peggy could really trust, and I really felt for her when she hit rock bottom.
For readers looking for a historical YA adventure, I would recommend this one.
I feel like this is the story where Peggy finally grows up. Her skills were put to the test, and her loyalties tested. While she has Matthew Reid by her side, she doesn't know who she can trust or who is telling her the truth. Every way she turns, she finds more questions and accusations.
It takes all the skills she has learned (and some she hasn't) for her to prevent a civil war, learn the truth about her mother, and keep herself from being killed. Her path takes her right into the heart of treason.
The writing was excellent and kept me interested from start to finish. Even I was kept guessing about who Peggy could really trust, and I really felt for her when she hit rock bottom.
For readers looking for a historical YA adventure, I would recommend this one.
June 23, 2017
I have really enjoyed this series. I like the characters. I enjoy the "period" way it is written. I think the storyline is usually pretty solid.
In this book I thought the whole thing kind of fell apart in the last 20 pages. Just a sloppy ending. I really felt that there needed about 30 more pages to wrap things up well. That made me really sad since I enjoy the rest of the book and series.
In this book I thought the whole thing kind of fell apart in the last 20 pages. Just a sloppy ending. I really felt that there needed about 30 more pages to wrap things up well. That made me really sad since I enjoy the rest of the book and series.
October 25, 2017
I don't know if this is the finale of Peggy's stories, because the ending (this is not a spoiler) feels like it is not....
What has kept me reading Zettel's trio of espionage, deceit, blackmail, murder, politics, assassination plots, and intrigue are her colorful cast of characters and the way she keeps her readers guessing. it can be confusing (in all 3 books) to keep your head as the reader wrapped around all of the questions that Peggy is speaking/asking or her thoughts in regards to the plot(s).
At times, esp. in this book, once you think you've got part of the clue figured out, she will throw not one, but at least 3 curve balls at you. She keeps her red herrings going as well as the actual mysteries that Peggy must attempt to overcome.
Find out what happens in Part 3 of Peggy's Adventures!
What has kept me reading Zettel's trio of espionage, deceit, blackmail, murder, politics, assassination plots, and intrigue are her colorful cast of characters and the way she keeps her readers guessing. it can be confusing (in all 3 books) to keep your head as the reader wrapped around all of the questions that Peggy is speaking/asking or her thoughts in regards to the plot(s).
At times, esp. in this book, once you think you've got part of the clue figured out, she will throw not one, but at least 3 curve balls at you. She keeps her red herrings going as well as the actual mysteries that Peggy must attempt to overcome.
Find out what happens in Part 3 of Peggy's Adventures!
October 9, 2019
This trilogy started off with a really promising start, with a murder mystery mixed in with a spy caper in the 1700s. It felt unique, there were stakes, and the characters were fun.
I don’t know if it’s just me but it felt like the scope of the books and the consequences in its political consequences felt like they got smaller and smaller, instead of bigger. Maybe because I got tired of the Sandfords? Not really sure.
But the final book was definitely better than the second.
Will be looking at some of Sarah Zettel’s other books.
I don’t know if it’s just me but it felt like the scope of the books and the consequences in its political consequences felt like they got smaller and smaller, instead of bigger. Maybe because I got tired of the Sandfords? Not really sure.
But the final book was definitely better than the second.
Will be looking at some of Sarah Zettel’s other books.
April 23, 2022
I actually skipped a lot of pages
There was too much description of the fetes. There were unnecessary repetition of individual characters traits (within the book. I get you need to describe characters in each book in case someone picks up book 3 first, but they were described ad nauseam). The (very) ending was too easy. How can it all be forgotten? I am interested in where it will go from here if the author continues the series.
There was too much description of the fetes. There were unnecessary repetition of individual characters traits (within the book. I get you need to describe characters in each book in case someone picks up book 3 first, but they were described ad nauseam). The (very) ending was too easy. How can it all be forgotten? I am interested in where it will go from here if the author continues the series.
January 18, 2019
Really more of a 2.5. I don't know what the hell was up with her decision making in this one. Truly some of the dumbest conclusions and plans I've ever seen including sending very important letters to the enemy when she would probably have been welcome without them.
I read books rather quickly but I just couldn't bring myself to sit down with this one.
I read books rather quickly but I just couldn't bring myself to sit down with this one.
January 22, 2022
This book felt very abrupt, low stakes, and a little nonsensical. I didn't dislike it, and it was a fun little romp that required very little attention or emotional investment, but I think the first of this series was the best.
Overall, I don't think I would actively recommend this series, but I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading it
Overall, I don't think I would actively recommend this series, but I wouldn't discourage anyone from reading it
July 29, 2021
This was a great conclusion to the series. When I started Palace of spies I really had no idea what to expect. How thrilled I was to find a well written story that pulled me in and kept me wanting more. I loved that it was clean.
April 10, 2022
Why isn’t Sarah Zettel a household name? This series was so much fun, wonderfully researched, clever characters, great plot twists. And it looks like she writes in several genres.
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Peggy and company, and I’m sad it’s come to an end.
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Peggy and company, and I’m sad it’s come to an end.
March 9, 2019
These are great period spy books with plot out the wazoo. Dangerous to read at night before bed - it’s so tempting to read just one more chapter.
July 24, 2023
3.5 stars
April 19, 2024
Loved all three!
Loved all three books! Characters are well rounded and grounded. I would definitely recommend to my high school students! Thanks
Loved all three books! Characters are well rounded and grounded. I would definitely recommend to my high school students! Thanks
February 1, 2017
This book was so awesome!! The perfect blend of princesses, romance, and danger.
October 15, 2016
The author did a great job wrapping up some of the loose threads in this series. The heroine finally uncovers all the deep dark secrets of her family.
December 31, 2015
Things are turning around for seventeen-year-old Peggy Fitzroy, a once-orphaned spy. Her father is back from the dead, and her unwanted engagement has been called off for good. But when a mysterious veiled woman shows up, Peggy uncovers a fresh slew of questions about her past, present, and future. Now Peggy is back at the palace, unsure of the loyalties she thought she held. With the Jacobite uprising stalking ever closer to the throne, it's imperative that Peggy discover who she can really trust. Can she save herself and the royal family, or is she doomed as a pawn in this most deadly game?
The Palace of Spies series has so far been an entertaining series. Margaret 'Peggy' Fitzroy is a smart young girl, trained in the arts of espionage and forever troubled by the fashion of her era. She brings out the story alive with her humor and personality, and though the pastel background in the covers don't suit the era, it certainly does suit her. All is not bright and shiny in her world, though, because even after having a fairly good life over the last two books (just one or two attempts of murder) she is now a bit worrisome over her future. She has her father back now but does not know how their relationship stands. On one hand, she is mystified by his intrigue and personality, while on the other she searches for vestiges of familial belonging.
During such a tumultuous emotional period, things in the court are starting to take a turn for the worse. The fact that Prince George is somewhat allying with others, especially those who are her enemies, makes her that much determined to uncover the plot to overthrow the throne. She is a brilliant spy, but the same cannot be said for her investigative skills. She comes up against plenty false leads, some ruinous exchanges and manages to get kidnapped yet again. Ultimately, our heroine perseveres and barely in the last few pages, we get an ending, albeit a rushed one. The storytelling style, thus, was engaging, right until the last chapter, when I was so worried things won't be resolved. And hope springs eternal for any further installations of this really good series.
Received a free galley from HMH Books for Young Readers via Edelweiss; this does not influence my opinions or the review.
The Palace of Spies series has so far been an entertaining series. Margaret 'Peggy' Fitzroy is a smart young girl, trained in the arts of espionage and forever troubled by the fashion of her era. She brings out the story alive with her humor and personality, and though the pastel background in the covers don't suit the era, it certainly does suit her. All is not bright and shiny in her world, though, because even after having a fairly good life over the last two books (just one or two attempts of murder) she is now a bit worrisome over her future. She has her father back now but does not know how their relationship stands. On one hand, she is mystified by his intrigue and personality, while on the other she searches for vestiges of familial belonging.
During such a tumultuous emotional period, things in the court are starting to take a turn for the worse. The fact that Prince George is somewhat allying with others, especially those who are her enemies, makes her that much determined to uncover the plot to overthrow the throne. She is a brilliant spy, but the same cannot be said for her investigative skills. She comes up against plenty false leads, some ruinous exchanges and manages to get kidnapped yet again. Ultimately, our heroine perseveres and barely in the last few pages, we get an ending, albeit a rushed one. The storytelling style, thus, was engaging, right until the last chapter, when I was so worried things won't be resolved. And hope springs eternal for any further installations of this really good series.
Received a free galley from HMH Books for Young Readers via Edelweiss; this does not influence my opinions or the review.
November 14, 2016
A Palace of Spies Novel: Assassin’s Masque by Sarah Zettel (vol 3)
Assassin’s Masque is book 3 in the Palace of Spies trilogy. The full title of the book continues in the title page - “Being a true and accurate account of the further adventures of Margaret Preston Fitzroy, Maid of Honor, Cardsharper, Housebreaker, Forger, Thief of Private Correspondence, Sometime Conspirator, and Confidential Agent at the Court of His Majesty, King George I.” This book is written as a memoir by Peggy Fitzroy (like the other 2 books). Peggy had been thrown out of her uncle’s house and had to make her own way. Fortunately, someone was looking out for her and she quickly found a job as a lady-in-waiting and confidential agent to King George of England. “I found myself impersonating a maid of honor to Her Royal Highness, Princess Caroline. I discovered a forged letter, which led to a series of Nefarious Plots with foreign Implications designed to topple the House of Hanover… (viii)”. The tone of the writing of the rest of the book is similar to this quote. It’s sort of a mix of historical fiction and steampunk, with a dash of romance.
In this book, Peggy is at her uncle’s funeral and a mysterious veiled woman shows up and tells Peggy that she knew her mother. No one can help her find the answers she needs. Mr. Tinderflint is gone, her father has disappeared again and everyone is keeping secrets. On the upside, Matthew and Peggy are officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Although, they have to keep it a secret.
This book is a little darker than the previous two books. However, there is humor written to the dialogue. The author does a nice job blending the action of the plot and the details of history. The cover would appeal to teen girls with bright colors and fancy gowns. Books 2 and 3 have a better cover than book 1. Sarah Zettel is a Michigan author, so I will let my readers know this when I recommend this book to them. I would also place it on a Michigan author display. It would also make for a good historical fiction or mystery/action book display. I think this book wraps up the trilogy up quite nicely. Not everything turns out perfect, but people get on with their lives. Peggy ends up knowing who she is and where she came from.
Assassin’s Masque is book 3 in the Palace of Spies trilogy. The full title of the book continues in the title page - “Being a true and accurate account of the further adventures of Margaret Preston Fitzroy, Maid of Honor, Cardsharper, Housebreaker, Forger, Thief of Private Correspondence, Sometime Conspirator, and Confidential Agent at the Court of His Majesty, King George I.” This book is written as a memoir by Peggy Fitzroy (like the other 2 books). Peggy had been thrown out of her uncle’s house and had to make her own way. Fortunately, someone was looking out for her and she quickly found a job as a lady-in-waiting and confidential agent to King George of England. “I found myself impersonating a maid of honor to Her Royal Highness, Princess Caroline. I discovered a forged letter, which led to a series of Nefarious Plots with foreign Implications designed to topple the House of Hanover… (viii)”. The tone of the writing of the rest of the book is similar to this quote. It’s sort of a mix of historical fiction and steampunk, with a dash of romance.
In this book, Peggy is at her uncle’s funeral and a mysterious veiled woman shows up and tells Peggy that she knew her mother. No one can help her find the answers she needs. Mr. Tinderflint is gone, her father has disappeared again and everyone is keeping secrets. On the upside, Matthew and Peggy are officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Although, they have to keep it a secret.
This book is a little darker than the previous two books. However, there is humor written to the dialogue. The author does a nice job blending the action of the plot and the details of history. The cover would appeal to teen girls with bright colors and fancy gowns. Books 2 and 3 have a better cover than book 1. Sarah Zettel is a Michigan author, so I will let my readers know this when I recommend this book to them. I would also place it on a Michigan author display. It would also make for a good historical fiction or mystery/action book display. I think this book wraps up the trilogy up quite nicely. Not everything turns out perfect, but people get on with their lives. Peggy ends up knowing who she is and where she came from.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2016
Peggy is once again thrust into palace intrigue, this time by Princess Caroline herself who fears a Jacobite plot to overthrow the Monarchy. Peggy sometimes stumbles, yet other times glides through duties as royal lady-in-waiting / spy. It seems as though her tight-knot group of confidants is forming and working almost as a spy-ring "cell": cousin Olivia, ever loyal and so eager to take up the reins of spy herself for the adventure, the intrepid, faithful, & very resourceful Matthew, Peggy's enigmatic handler, spymaster, Lord Tierney,aka Mr Tinderflint, and now, Peggy's father, the not-dead-after-all, seasoned spy himself. This "cell" seemed, at times, to be working together, at other times, perhaps against each other (or with their own agendas) which added to the drama and mystery unfolding. Peggy's hand-wringing, nervous Aunt Pierpont turns out not to be who everyone thought she was, however, her exact role in the unfolding conspiracy was never fully answered and remains a mystery. Hopefully, there will be another book answering that question. There were some mysteries about Peggy's past and her family that were, however, resolved and I was happy to see that that was not strung-along any further. Peggy's relationship with her fellow lady-in-waiting & best frenemy, Sophy, also undergoes some changes due to the girls' shared experiences. It would be interesting to see where that relationship goes from here.
I enjoyed this novel every bit as much as the first 2. The author's tongue-in-cheek description of events, Peggy's thoughts, and life in English court in those days was humorous. Peggy's relationship with her previously MIA father still has a lot of room to grow, I think, and I'd like to see where that would also go in the next book (if there is to be a #4). Matthew & Peggy's relationship is one of the sweeter aspects of this storyline. Who wouldn't love Matthew after he rescues her, joins her espionage escapades (sometimes at his own peril), and supports & protects the dogmatic and sometimes foolhardy Peggy as best he can? I would dearly love to see where the story goes with these two as well.
I enjoyed this novel every bit as much as the first 2. The author's tongue-in-cheek description of events, Peggy's thoughts, and life in English court in those days was humorous. Peggy's relationship with her previously MIA father still has a lot of room to grow, I think, and I'd like to see where that would also go in the next book (if there is to be a #4). Matthew & Peggy's relationship is one of the sweeter aspects of this storyline. Who wouldn't love Matthew after he rescues her, joins her espionage escapades (sometimes at his own peril), and supports & protects the dogmatic and sometimes foolhardy Peggy as best he can? I would dearly love to see where the story goes with these two as well.
June 14, 2016
The feisty, intelligent, competent 17-year-old heroine of Palace of Spies is back in book 3, and she has an artistic boyfriend (as if, in 1716, such a thing is possible for a Maid of Honor to the royal princess), and her long-lost, presumed-dead father has returned.
Readers who got caught up in books 1 & 2, will undoubtedly want to read this, but many of them will feel disappointed. Not knowing much about British history made it difficult for me to differentiate between poorly constructed plot points, confusing counter-espionage & double-agent scheming, and farce. Generally speaking, if there is a costume scene in which an outlandish headdress nearly foils a rebellion, we aren't meant to take the entire work seriously. However, there is no other humor! Therefore, the costume changes feel more like distractions and filler for what amounted to very little on-screen action.
Finally, Peggy is confused all the time about whom to trust, even when the reader starts to have a strong feeling in favor of one or another character, which is NOT how it's supposed to be, I'm sorry to say. I think most readers want the heroine to be uncannily prescient and perspicacious. If she misses the point, makes the wrong decision, is foiled in her plans, then it should be a dramatic climax that shifts everything into high gear, whereupon she heroically recovers just in the nick of time - NOT (as it is in this book) just another mistaken path on her part, that leads nowhere good, and peters out in a pretty lame scene in which she has to be rescued.
Nevertheless, it was mostly fun to read.
Readers who got caught up in books 1 & 2, will undoubtedly want to read this, but many of them will feel disappointed. Not knowing much about British history made it difficult for me to differentiate between poorly constructed plot points, confusing counter-espionage & double-agent scheming, and farce. Generally speaking, if there is a costume scene in which an outlandish headdress nearly foils a rebellion, we aren't meant to take the entire work seriously. However, there is no other humor! Therefore, the costume changes feel more like distractions and filler for what amounted to very little on-screen action.
Finally, Peggy is confused all the time about whom to trust, even when the reader starts to have a strong feeling in favor of one or another character, which is NOT how it's supposed to be, I'm sorry to say. I think most readers want the heroine to be uncannily prescient and perspicacious. If she misses the point, makes the wrong decision, is foiled in her plans, then it should be a dramatic climax that shifts everything into high gear, whereupon she heroically recovers just in the nick of time - NOT (as it is in this book) just another mistaken path on her part, that leads nowhere good, and peters out in a pretty lame scene in which she has to be rescued.
Nevertheless, it was mostly fun to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2016
It’s 1716 England and life is turning around for seventeen year old Margaret “Peggy” Fitzroy. By day Peggy is maid of honour to her Royal Highness, Caroline Princess of Wales. By night she is a confidential agent or spy in the service of the Crown. When a mysterious veiled woman shows up at her aunt’s home, Peggy’s life begins to unravel and she doesn’t know who to trust: her father who has just come back from the dead and may be a double agent; her mentor, Lord Tierney, aka Mr. Tinderflint, who may not be her greatest ally; her seemingly innocent Aunt Pierpont; or various lords and ladies of the court with their own motives and aspirations against the royal house. With the threat of a Jacobite invasion, Peggy finds herself a pawn in everybody’s plots and schemes. To get to the truth she has to rely on her wits, on subterfuge and on the only two people she explicitly trusts: her cousin Olivia and her sweetheart Matthew.
Assassin’s Masque is the third installment of the Palace of Spies young adult series. Peggy is a typical adolescent of any time period, prone to outbursts, long-winded “what if” scenarios, rashness, and sentimentality. But she is also endearing, smart and witty.
Assassin’s Masque is a light, breezy, and entertaining novel, involving a plot against the royal house and the inadequate spy and her equally inept cohorts who try to prevent it.
Reviewed for Historical Novels Society
Assassin’s Masque is the third installment of the Palace of Spies young adult series. Peggy is a typical adolescent of any time period, prone to outbursts, long-winded “what if” scenarios, rashness, and sentimentality. But she is also endearing, smart and witty.
Assassin’s Masque is a light, breezy, and entertaining novel, involving a plot against the royal house and the inadequate spy and her equally inept cohorts who try to prevent it.
Reviewed for Historical Novels Society
January 26, 2022
This series is a delight to read. Being inside Peggy’s head is fun, exciting, and an all-around good time. She is witty and smart and far too clever for her own good.
In Assassin’s Masque, Peggy is led on one wild goose chase after another, each one dredging up new suspicions and casting old characters in a new light. She tests out many theories, makes some mistakes, and ultimately proves herself to be the sharp and troublesome spy her enemies hope she isn’t. She takes everything in stride, and only occasionally pauses to collect her wits.
I hoped this wouldn’t be the last book in the series, but I think it is and I’m sad because it has been so much fun to read. If you are looking for a fun, humorous mystery set in an amazing historical setting, then you should definitely read this series. Other than a small amount of cursing and suggestive remarks, these books are quite clean, too. This is a fabulous series and I would happily recommend this to anyone looking for a good YA spy novel.
In Assassin’s Masque, Peggy is led on one wild goose chase after another, each one dredging up new suspicions and casting old characters in a new light. She tests out many theories, makes some mistakes, and ultimately proves herself to be the sharp and troublesome spy her enemies hope she isn’t. She takes everything in stride, and only occasionally pauses to collect her wits.
I hoped this wouldn’t be the last book in the series, but I think it is and I’m sad because it has been so much fun to read. If you are looking for a fun, humorous mystery set in an amazing historical setting, then you should definitely read this series. Other than a small amount of cursing and suggestive remarks, these books are quite clean, too. This is a fabulous series and I would happily recommend this to anyone looking for a good YA spy novel.
July 24, 2016
Well, this was rather disappointing. I loved the past 2 books in this trilogy, but I really didn't enjoy this one. Maybe it's because my tastes have changed, or maybe I've become a more critical reading since I read the last 2. This book felt very stilted and awkward. None of the characters felt real, and their interactions with each other were cringe worthy. There was almost no character development, and everything felt a bit flat.
This book had a huge pacing problem. At times it felt extremely slow, and other times it felt way too rushed. The ending was especially rushed. Everything happened very quickly with very little tension. I thought the ending was a bit dumb as well. It was very unsatisfying.
This book wasn't completely terrible, and since it's the last book in the series I'd say just read it so that you can finish the series.
This book had a huge pacing problem. At times it felt extremely slow, and other times it felt way too rushed. The ending was especially rushed. Everything happened very quickly with very little tension. I thought the ending was a bit dumb as well. It was very unsatisfying.
This book wasn't completely terrible, and since it's the last book in the series I'd say just read it so that you can finish the series.
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