Romance, humor and magic mark this brisk debut novel, the first of a trilogy set in an alternative Regency England. With two marriageable older sisters, a regrettable older brother, retiring father and meddling stepmother, 12-year-old Kat occupies the bottom slot in the family pecking order. She’s more than up to the challenge, thanks to a feisty nature and newly awakened magical gifts inherited from the mother she never knew. No sooner does Kat discover those gifts than senior members of the Order demand that she be guided by them in developing her powers. Not likely! Kat will go her own way, risking the consequences—invariably unexpected. Burgis’s command of the conventions of the genre is evident in characterization and plot, putting every element in place for a genteel romp. Stepmama maneuvers to marry off Elissa to a wealthy nobleman; Elissa, knowing her family’s dire financial straits, tries to dutifully submit to loathsome Sir Neville; Angeline struggles with the consequences of a love spell. Luckily, Kat is on hand to interfere with everyone’s plans. Enjoyable mayhem ensues. (Historical fantasy. 10 & up)
