The Princess Spy

Publisher: Zondervan

Pages: 304

Summary:

A new suitor. A shocking discovery.

Margaretha has always been a romantic, and hopes her newest suitor, Lord Claybrook, is destined to be her one true love. But then an injured man is brought to Hagenheim Castle, claiming to be an English lord who was attacked by Claybrook and left for dead. And only Margaretha—one of the few who speaks his language—understands the wild story.

Margaretha finds herself unable to pass Colin’s message along to her father, the duke, and convinces herself “Lord Colin” is just an addled stranger. Then Colin retrieves an heirloom she lost in a well, and asks her to spy on Claybrook as repayment. Margaretha knows she could never be a spy—not only is she unable to keep anything secret, she’s sure Colin is completely wrong about her potential betrothed. Though when Margaretha overhears Claybrook one day, she discovers her romantic notions may have been clouding her judgment about not only Colin but Claybrook as well. It is up to her to save her father and Hagenheim itself from Claybrook’s wicked plot.

Positive elements:

Colin is determined to protect Margaretha. Margaretha will do whatever it takes to help her family. Margaretha acknowledges her shortcomings. Colin and Margaretha are loyal to their family and friends; Margaretha handles a particularly difficult secondary character with grace.

Cons:

It is mentioned that a young woman became pregnant before marriage; Margaretha disobeys her father; characters steal.

Violence:

Colin and a friend are attacked; it is mentioned that a young woman was drowned; Margaretha uses a candlestick to knock guards out; men get their throats slit (no detail), Colin and Margaretha are attacked, with Colin sustaining injuries.

Spiritual Content:

Characters pray to God; it is learned that revenge is the Lord’s.

Other:

Colin and Margaretha kiss.

Rating:

5 Stars.

Conclusion:

The Princess Spy is, without question, one of my favorite Melanie Dickerson book. Margaretha is endearing both for being a chatterbox and her love and loyalty for her family. If you’re searching for a well-crafted, engaging fairy tale retelling, then The Princess Spy is the book you are looking for!