Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl

imageI could present Prisoners in the Palace by Michaela MacColl as historical fiction, but I think the tagline on the cover says it much better:  a novel of intrigue and romance.

Even though the story takes place in London of 1836 and involves historical characters such as the Princess Victoria, it is much more Downtown Abbey than dry history tome.  Poor Liza may have been born into a life of wealth and privilege, but her entrance into London society is blocked by the tragic death of her parents.  Now alone and penniless, she desperately accepts a job as a lady’s maid to the young Princess Victoria.

It’s certainly not what she expected–more maid than lady-in-waiting.  If she survives the gossip below stairs and the trickery above stairs, she just might be able to take control over her life, find true love, and secure the throne for her future king.  If she fails, she could live out her short days in a dungeon.

Liza is plucky and determined.  Even as fate turns her life upside down, she vows to do the right thing even when it means befriending a spoiled princess and a lost orphan boy.  She must learn who in the household she can trust, and who she cannot.  My favorite of her allies is one from outside the house–Will, a somewhat honest newspaperman.  He’s all for the power of the press, but doesn’t let the facts get in the way of good story.

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