Thursday, February 3, 2011

Dark Mirror-M.J. Putney

Dark Mirror
M.J. Putney
St. Martin’s Griffin, Mar 1 2011, $9.99
ISBN: 9780312622848

Late in the seventeenth century in London, the British aristocracy decided that magic was beneath their upper class; so only the masses of the lower classes displayed the skill. By 1803, noble children, who demonstrate magical inclination, are sent to Lackland Abbey to hide the scandal these misfits cause while also learning to suppress the skill.

When Lady Victoria “Tory” Mansfield, daughter of an earl and Countess, learns she has magical abilities, her ashamed family exiles her to Lackland. Frightened she expects to be punished if she displays her talent, but is somewhat shocked to find some people refuse to bury their talents. As Napoleon plans to cross the Channel abetted by mages, Tory must choose between remaining ostracized by embracing her abilities to help protect her country or returning to the idyllic charmed life of the Ton.

This is a super young adult historical fantasy starring a wonderful young lady who must choose between risking her life for her country and enjoying the gala her country endows on the wealthy. A great timely switch enhances Tory’s decision while also stunning readers who will not see it coming. Tory decides how to answer JFK’s poignant question: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.”

Harriet Klausner

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