Book details
The Agency: The Body at the Tower
Description
Mary's second adventure as an undercover agent forces her to relive some harrowing childhood experiences as she seeks the identity of a murderer.Mary Quinn is back, now a trusted member of the Agency, the all-female detective unit operating out of Miss Scrimshaw's Academy for Girls. Her new assignment sends her into the grimy underbelly of Victorian London dressed as a poor boy, evoking her own childhood memories of fear, hunger, and constant want. As she insinuates herself into the confidence of several persons of interest, she encounters others in desperate situations and struggles to make a difference without exposing - or losing - her identity. Mary's adventure, which takes place on the building site of the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament, offers a fictional window into a fascinating historical time and place.
Age
12-17
Text complexity
beginner
Length
337 pages
Book in series
#2
Why to read
- Engaging Historical Setting: 'The Agency: The Body at the Tower' is set in Victorian London, providing readers with a rich and immersive historical environment. The attention to detail and historical accuracy offers a captivating backdrop for the story, making it a great read for those interested in this era.
- Strong Female Protagonist: The novel features a smart and resourceful female lead, Mary Quinn, who challenges the gender norms of the time. Her character development and the challenges she faces as a woman in a male-dominated society are inspiring and thought-provoking for readers.
- Mystery and Suspense: As a novel that combines elements of mystery and young adult fiction, it offers a compelling and intricate plot full of twists and turns. Readers who enjoy solving puzzles and uncovering secrets will find the book's suspenseful narrative engaging.
- Themes of Social Justice: The book touches on important themes such as social inequality, gender roles, and racial discrimination. It encourages readers to think critically about these issues, both in the context of the Victorian era and in relation to contemporary society.