Whitby, Adele. Beth’s
Story, 1914 (Secrets of the Manor), illustrations by Jaime Zollars. Simon Spotlight, 2014. $16.99. 148 pages.
Lady Beth of Chatswood Manor is excited to celebrate her twelfth
birthday because she will inherit a family heirloom called the Elizabeth
necklace. She now has her very own lady’s
maid, Shannon, who used to be a housemaid.
To add to Beth’s joy, her cousin Gabrielle, from France, is coming for a
visit. But Gabrielle isn’t like she
remembered. She isn’t interested in talking
to Beth at all or the plans for her party.
Gabrielle’s locket goes missing and it is found in a laundry basket in
Shannon’s room. Beth is sure Shannon is
innocent, but she’ll have to prove it before Shannon is dismissed.
The book feels like “Downton Abbey” watered down for kids. The plot’s mystery was very basic and
obvious. The character development was slim. However, young girls who are interested in
historical fiction will probably enjoy this very light fare. Recommend to American Girl series fans.
EL-ADVISABLE.
Samantha Hastings, MA, MLS.
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1 comment:
I do rather enjoy these, and there are a few of my readers who picked them up for something quick and then found they enjoyed historical fiction.
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