The Barony of Cant is difficult to find on a map, usually hidden within the folds, but within this anachronistic land, which uses catapults and dungeons, but receives hand-me-down clothes from America, lives Lucy Wickwright. An orphan and maidservant to mischievous Pauline, heiress to the throne, Lucy finds herself an unlikely spy for the Chewing Gum Rebellion. More than an anti-loyalist faction that wants to rid the barony of overpriced, imported chewing gum, which keeps the commoners slaves to the aristocracy, the Cause is spreading rumors that Lord Cant had an illegitimate daughter before he married. This unknown child would be the rightful heir. Claiming the throne isn’t an easy task, however, when a diabolical would-be regent wants to usurp control, and loyalty over status guides one’s heart. Lucy must choose her true alliances, family, and future in this clever debut. With its quirky medieval setting and unpretentious, underdog heroine, this story will appeal to young fans of that other popular orphan. (Fiction. 10-14)
