Description:

Just right for fans of Tamora Pierce and Patricia C. Wrede! When twelve-year-old Lady Lilah decides to disguise herself and sneak out of the palace one night, she has more of an adventure than she expected--for she learns very quickly that the country is on the edge of revolution. When she sneaks back in, she learns something even more surprising: her older brother Peitar is one of the forces behind it all. The revolution happens before all of his plans are in place, and brings unexpected chaos and violence. Lilah and her friends, leaving their old lives behind, are determined to help however they can. But what can four kids do? Become spies, of course! ** ### From School Library Journal Gr 5-8-A fast-paced adventure set in the fictional land of Selenna within the larger realm of Sartorias-deles. Despite the long list of books set there, this one can easily stand alone. Princess Lilah, 12, lives in a world on the brink of revolution. When she gets an itch for adventure, she disguises herself as a boy and becomes embroiled in the action as the kingdom descends into chaos. The legions of poor have rebelled against their rich overlords, including Lilah's family, and her brother is helping to lead the revolution. The plot is complex but well developed and there are plenty of twists to keep clever readers guessing. Smith's writing keeps pace with well-placed descriptive passages, but without frills. Lilah is an empowered girl, but still acts her age and makes plenty of impetuous mistakes. Her world is richly detailed, and the supporting characters often defy convention. The political themes and complexity keep this novel out of reach for reluctant readers, but would likely satisfy more sophisticated children longing for something meatier.-Ricca Gaus, New York Public Libraryα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. ### About the Author Sherwood Smith started making books out of paper towels at age six. In between stories, she studied and traveled in Europe, got a Masters degree in history, and now lives in Southern California with her spouse, two kids, and two dogs. She’s worked in jobs ranging from counter work in a smoky harbor bar to the film industry. Writing books is what she loves best. She’s the author of the high fantasy *History of Sartorias-deles *series as well as the modern-day fantasy adventures of Kim Murray in *Coronets and Steel*. Learn more at www.sherwoodsmith.net.