4.5 Stars

Man, I haven't read children's lit/middle-grade fiction in a while. This was fun! I love a good alternative history fantasy book, and I would highly recommend this to an elementary or middle-grade reader who wants to explore the genre. It had an interesting magic system that was explained well (at one point with literal blackboard and chalk!), a fun adventure with appropriately high stakes, a satisfying conclusion, gorgeous illustrations, lines and characters that made me laugh out loud, and a realistic explanation for the "chosen one" trope. I really appreciated that last one as it's not something I come across often. There was a bit more telling and less showing than I prefer as a general rule, but I think it actually made sense given that this is for younger readers who are still learning the genre and its features. I'm really glad I got to read this one, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who loves middle-grade or children's lit.

Parents, be aware that necromancy, ghosts, and possession do play a role in the story, so steer clear if that's something you don't want your kids reading.

There's really interesting world building here and a crackerjack start, but then it all slows down a bit too much. The adventure of the book is quickly lost in multiple slow carriage rides back and forth across England (in one case for a visit that lasts less than five minutes) and shoehorning in multiple historical figures who don't really add to the narrative beyond the surprise of their being there at all. The secret at the heart of the book is extremely guessable and the impact of that secret so easily reversed it felt meaningless. I enjoyed the book, but would have enjoyed it more if the adventurous first half hadn't drifted into political procedural in the second,