Readers who think life calmed down for Maeve Merritt after she rid herself of her sardine-can djinni in Wishes and Wellingtons (2020) have another think coming in this action-packed sequel. Things start peacefully enough, with a thrilling visit to the Crystal Palace in honor of Queen Victoria's 1897 Diamond Jubilee. There Maeve delights in the rides and exhibitions with her two best friends, Alice Bromley and Tom Poindexter, and unsubtly plays matchmaker for her beloved sister, Polly. Such pleasant diversions are fleeting, as soon after this outing, a burglary at Tom's adoptive father's shop is quickly followed by the abduction of Mr. Poindexter himself! Not convinced that the police are taking the matter seriously, Maeve dives straight into investigating matters herself, especially since she's sure Mr. Poindexter's disappearance is connected to his having possession of the djinni now. Berry unfolds a charming and witty Victorian adventure, marked by a mysterious villain, flying carpet bags, and a daring rescue, but it's the tight friendship among Maeve, Alice, and Tom that makes the story soar.

Misadventures and magic in the time of Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.In Wishes and Wellingtons (2020), Maeve Merritt found a wish-granting djinni that brought her world-traveling adventures and lifelong friends. It's now 1897, and Maeve's only wish is for her favorite sister, Polly, to find wedded happiness with her constable beau. Perhaps there's something about Maeve that attracts magic, for it's not long before she's embroiled in a misadventure involving a missing adopted father, a phony baroness, new magical discoveries, and, of course, Mermeros the djinni. Can Maeve and her friends save the day and secure matrimonial bliss for Polly? Fans of E. Nesbit and Edward Eager will find much to love in this title that is best enjoyed by those who have read the first volume. The historical time and place are strongly developed and buoyed by magical antics, including two puppyish magic carpetbags. Maeve's opinionated voice is compelling enough to overcome more than a few plot holes. The conclusion tidily resolves all the loose ends while leaving an opening for Maeve to find more magical objects and adventures. As before, the cover depicts Maeve with brown skin and dark hair, but the narrative, in which characters' appearances are minimally described, never mentions her race, ethnicity, or even her physical appearance.This action-packed sequel possesses strong voice and setting. (Historical fiction. 10-13)