Lady Grace Mysteries: Assassin, by Grace Cavendish

This is one of those series I've wanted to try for some time and...I'm SO GLAD I did!


The Lady Grace Mysteries: Assassin, by Grace Cavendish
Young Adult, 2004

from fantasticfiction.co.uk:
It's the spring of 1569 and 13-year-old Lady Grace, the youngest lady-in-waiting to the Queen, finds herself at a glittering ball choosing amongst three suitors. But the Queen's generosity turns deadly as threats, dark secrets, and even murder descend on the Tudor court. And it is up to Grace to use her intelligence, stealth, and curious nature to solve the mystery that threatens the very lifeblood of England.

I really enjoyed this quick mystery in journal form. Grace is a cute, confident, and believable character. I like her 'side kicks', and the history is right on target. The author (who uses the pseudonym Grace Cavendish) takes plenty of creative license, but that's what makes it fun. I read so many varieties of Elizabeth I's personality, that I never know what to believe, but I liked her version. Don't hesitate to try these works, they're enjoyable from beginning to end!

Graded an A-. I recommend this first book for the pre-teen audience, but I'm hoping that as the series progresses Grace gets older and grows up a bit. Anyone who enjoyed the Enola Holmes mysteries or even as young as the Theodosia Throckmorton mysteries could enjoy these.


There are twelve books so far in the Lady Grace series, and I am looking forward to reading all of them. I believe omnibuses are being published starting next year with the first two with what looks like a much better cover.