Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl

A week ago Liza's biggest concern was what dress flattered her figure best. Now she is a penniless orphan working as a lady's maid. At least she is working for princess Victoria. But for a future Queen, Victoria's palace looks pretty shabby. Her mother treats her as if she is still a child and never allows her to be alone.  Her mother plots with Sir John to take over Victoria's power and keeps Victoria hidden from view so that people will believe the rumors that she cannot handle being queen. Before Liza knows what's happening, she finds herself spying for Victoria and making deals with newsmen on fleet street. Victoria may be Queen some day, but until that day comes her mother has her in a trap.  She is a prisoner in her own palace.

Liza was a resourceful, intelligent protagonist. She thinks on her feet and she isn't afraid to risk herself for what she thinks is right. The life of young Victoria and the intrigue behind the scenes is fascinating. Real excerpts from Victoria's diary and letters from her mother are included throughout the text as well as diary entries from the fictional Liza.

Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl

Erica's Picks
6th - 8th Grade
Tags: Character Driven, Diaries, Historical Fiction

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