Majestica

Gr 4-8–Thirteen-year-old Hattie Swift feels stuck as the only a maid-in-training at Majestica, a resort for rare, magical flora and fauna, and the most wonderful place in the world to her. Hattie wishes to be older and to feel a part of something. Due to certain events, Hattie is asked to accompany snobby Evelyn Ridgewell, niece of the hotel owner, as her chaperone on a famous wilderness train excursion. Soon Hattie is caught up in a whirlwind of drama, complete with an apprentice magician named Jacob, a train breakdown in a dangerous area, poachers, dragons on the loose, and more. The only way for Hattie to make it back to Majestica safely is to team up with Evelyn and Jacob. This is a delightful tale full of magic, fantastical creatures and plants, and, of course, adventure. It has a historical fiction feel due to the setting. It’s fast paced, and has well-developed characters and complex budding friendships. Also included is an opening map, a cast list of characters and creatures, and illustrated chapter headings.