Thursday, June 18, 2015

A Pocket Full of Murder by R. J. Anderson

How could anyone think her father was a murderer?

Antheneum Books for Young Readers and Edelweiss gave me the opportunity read this book for review (thank you).  It will be published September 8th so make a note to pick it up then.

Isaveth is working hard at trying to duplicate her mother's spells.  Since her mother died and her father lost his job, things have been tight around the house.  If only she could make a bit of money they could eat better and maybe get some new shoes for her sisters.  She manages to make the magic, but she's having a hard time selling it.  When a young ruffian runs into her and her goods go into the street, the cops are about to take her in.  Luckily, a young noble explains what just happened and she's freed.  He also sneaks her a few sheckles so she can buy food.  Little does she know that she's just gotten involved with royalty that will cause her even more trouble.

When the street boy that ran into her saves her from being set on by other street urchins, she's hesitant to accept him as a friend.  He's persistent, though, and soon she's calling him Quiz.  He's also willing to help her try to find out who the real murderer was.

Isaveth learns a lot during this story.  She learns about trust, politics, truth, family and bullies.  Nothing is as straightforward as she thought it would be.  And the real killer will still be hidden, but her father is set free and comes home.

I'm glad the author added this dose of reality to the story.  Nothing was what it seemed and the outcome isn't perfect, but it's real enough.  Even magic can't save you from politicians.


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