Rose

Rose is an orphan who works as a servant at a busy Victorian household where magic exists. She discovers she has her own magical abilities and must decide what to do with this newfound power. The story follows Rose as she learns about magic from the household's alchemist while continuing her duties as a maid. Children begin disappearing from London's streets, leading Rose to investigate the connection between the missing children and dark magic practices. Children's fantasy elements blend with historical details of servants' lives in Victorian England. The narrative explores themes of class differences, friendship across social boundaries, and the responsibilities that come with having special abilities.

Most readers find Rose to be an engaging middle-grade fantasy that appeals to both children and adults. Parents report their 8-12 year old children finishing the book quickly and requesting the sequels. Readers appreciated: - The Victorian London setting with magic elements - Rose's character development from servant to magic user - The balance between darker themes and age-appropriate content - Clear, straightforward writing style Common criticisms: - Predictable plot points - Slow pacing in the first third - Some found the magic system underdeveloped Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (280+ ratings) "A perfect introduction to fantasy for younger readers" notes one parent reviewer. Another mentions "My daughter loved identifying with Rose as she discovered her abilities." Several reviewers compared it favorably to Harry Potter but "with a gentler approach suitable for sensitive readers."

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🌹 "Rose" is the first book in Holly Webb's Rose series, which eventually grew into four books following the young orphan's magical journey. ⚜️ The Victorian London setting was extensively researched by Holly Webb, who incorporated authentic details about workhouses and domestic service from the 1870s. 🎭 The character of Mr. Fountain was inspired by real-life Victorian magicians who performed elaborate stage shows during the height of spiritualism in England. ✨ Holly Webb wrote "Rose" after a successful career writing contemporary animal stories, marking her first venture into historical fantasy fiction. 🏰 The magical elements in the book were influenced by traditional British folklore about household magic and domestic spirits, blending them with Victorian-era sensibilities.