First published 2012
Clara Wintermute watches Gaspare Grisini work his puppets with such skill they seem alive. The wealthy doctor's daughter invites the mysterious performer to her birthday celebration, where he arrives with his caravan and two orphaned helpers, Lizzie Rose and Parsefall. The assistants marvel at Clara's luxurious home and loving parents, everything they lack as street children. But Clara harbors her own grief and secrets behind the privilege. When she disappears that same night, authorities suspect Grisini of kidnapping. Lizzie Rose and Parsefall must clear their names while searching for Clara. Their investigation reveals Grisini's criminal history and sinister plans. The children flee London only to encounter Grisini's ancient enemy, a witch carrying a lethal curse she must pass on before time runs out. Laura Amy Schlitz weaves Victorian atmosphere with supernatural menace as three young people navigate a world where magic and malice intertwine.
Genres: historical-fiction, adventure, mystery, fantasy, supernatural, 19th-century
Vibes: atmospheric, dark, suspenseful
Tropes: found-family, mystery, supernatural-elements
Setting: London
Period: 19th-century
308 pages · ebook · Candlewick Press (MA)
Content warnings: child-abuse, violence