The Incorrigible Children of Ashton
Place Bk. 1: The Mysterious Howling
by Maryrose Wood

    THE MYSTERIOUS HOWLING by Maryrose Wood
    Category:  Historical
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 6+
    Release Date:  2/23/10
    Publisher:  Balzer + Bray
    Reviewed by:  Cat
    Rating:  5 Stars


    Having graduated a year early from the Swanburne Academy for Poor Bright Females, fifteen-year-old Penelope
    Lumley is off to interview for a governess position at Ashton Place. After a rushed meeting with Lady Constance,
    Penelope is shocked to discover three dirty, wild-haired children howling in the stables.  

    Much to his bride of six month's consternation, Lord Ashton discovered the feral group while hunting the woods of
    his vast estate and decided to keep them. Now, Penelope must draw upon every ounce of ingenuity and skill at her
    disposal in order to civilize the incorrigible trio.

    Successful teen author Maryrose Wood makes her middle-grade debut with a charming, lighthearted Victorian
    mystery featuring a heroine brimming with intelligent gumption and a supporting cast that is (respectively) endearing,
    humorous, fluttery, pompous, and downright vexing. By juxtaposing the historical circumstances and details with
    examples from contemporary life, Ms. Wood gives young readers easily identifiable touchstones for reference.

    All in all, a winning combo that has me eagerly anticipating the next installment.