The Princess Spy

Gr 9 Up—It's April 1413, and 18-year-old Margaretha, eldest daughter of Duke Wilhelm of Hagenheim, is reluctantly entertaining the pursuit of her latest suitor, Rowland Fortescue, Earl of Claybrook, when a handsome, severely injured stranger, Colin, arrives. The heroine is immediately drawn to the alluring young man and the daunting information he insists that he must share with her father—information that could put her and her entire family at risk, but could also save their lives. Talkative, sheltered, and carefree, Margaretha must undertake the task of spying on Lord Claybrook and his men to learn for herself if what Colin has warned her of is true and if so, how she can save her family from certain death. Throughout the story there is an undertone of attraction between the protagonist and Colin that builds gradually, leaving readers yearning for the moment the two will finally express their love. The story and the characters are believable, and the author seamlessly weaves details about this Holy Roman Empire village and courtly life, while maintaining the narrative's even pace. References to God are made throughout the story: Margaretha and Colin's thoughts and prayers often address the deity, making this an appropriate title for teens who enjoy princess-themed Christian romance.—Susan Harris, Ridgeway High School, TN