Rose and the Lost Princess (Rose #2)

Rose makes my heart smile. So far, Rose and the Lost Princess is my favorite in the series. The unique and imaginative plot won me over. The second book in the series begins right where Rose ended. For me, that helped keep the plot interesting and moving quickly because it felt like the story never ended.

This time around there is a new villain on the block, and what a villain he was! The interesting plot twist offered by the villain kept the story feeling fresh.

Of course, what would these books be without the cat? I really do think he's my favorite character. I just can't help but love his sarcasm. It's obvious that he loves Rose, but he tries to hide it so well. His role in the novels also helps move the story along and prevents it from stalling along the way.

Ms. Webb's writing is also exceptional. Her vivid descriptions whisk you away to the time and place in which Rose lives. I feel like I'm living in the same house as Rose and experiencing her life through her eyes. The interactions with the other characters is believable for the time period and her position in life. But the story doesn't feel forced or bordering on what might be considered historical fiction. It is definitely fantasy, and a delightful romp through the genre. There is plenty of magic (and magical mishaps) to excite the reader, and I do believe there might be a young romance starting to bloom for our heroine too.

I highly recommend this series for middle grade readers. While it will probably appeal to girls between the ages of 8-12 the most, there is still plenty to appeal to older readers. Rose is clever, resourceful, and a believable character. Many readers will find pieces of themselves between these pages.