This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Curious Conundrum of Charlemagne Crosse is a work of fiction in the mystery, suspense, and historical adventure subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author PJ McIlvaine. Set against the backdrop of an alternate Victorian London, the story follows Charlemagne Crosse, a resourceful and intelligent young woman who has endured a challenging upbringing after the mysterious disappearance of her parents. When she unexpectedly regains her wealth and freedom, Charlemagne returns to her ancestral home and is thrust into a world of intrigue and secrets. As Charlemagne delves into her father's inventions and the quest to contact the afterlife, the narrative unfolds with a perfect balance of suspense and discovery.
Author PJ McIlvaine's storytelling is enchanting, with a vividly described setting that immerses readers in the Victorian era with just the right amount of detail and atmospheric touches. The characters, especially Charlemagne and her enigmatic Uncle Alistair, are well-developed and engaging, with convincing dialogue that sounds appropriate to the era but is still accessible and easy for YA readers to enjoy. The pacing keeps you eagerly turning the pages, and the plot twists are both unexpected and satisfying, offering a delightful blend of mystery, adventure, and a touch of the supernatural that always has a surprise in store. For example, the concept of using a solar eclipse as a pivotal event in the plot was so inventive and creative, like nothing I’ve seen in these kinds of novels before. Overall, The Curious Conundrum of Charlemagne Crosse is a charming and imaginative tale that combines historical elements with supernatural mystery, making it an enjoyable read for anyone who loves a good adventure with a strong and resourceful female protagonist.
