The Agency 1: A Spy in the House by Y.S. Lee

**2010 Debut Author Challenge List**
Reading level: Young Adult Hardcover: 352 pages Publisher: Candlewick; 1 edition (March 9, 2010)
Summary: Rescued from the gallows in 1850s London, young orphan (and thief) Mary Quinn is surprised to be offered a singular education, instruction in fine manners -- and an unusual vocation. Miss Scrimshaw's Academy for Girls is a cover for an all-female investigative unit called The Agency, and at seventeen, Mary is about to put her training to the test. Assuming the guise of a lady's companion, she must infiltrate a rich merchant's home in hopes of tracing his missing cargo ships. But the household is full of dangerous deceptions, and there is no one to trust -- or is there? Packed with action and suspense, banter and romance, and evoking the gritty backstreets of Victorian London, this breezy mystery debuts a daring young detective who lives by her wits while uncovering secrets -- including those of her own past.
My review: A mystery starring a seventeen-year-old female thief turned spy sent out on her first mission for The Agency all set in Victorian England. Who could need anything else? I didn't. This first installment in Y.S. Lee's trilogy is an invigorating story filled with well defined characters, a vivid setting, and a satisfying, exciting climax. Lee is an engaging writer, her novel is written in the third person from the perspective of main heroine Mary Quinn and her partner-of-sorts James. Their banter, while proper for the time period, is humorous and witty and their chemistry is reason alone to read this book. 

Mary is the underdog so many like to root for. She is smart but not perfect and on her first mission she is sure to make a few mistakes. While posing as an attendant for a young socialite, Mary has to find incriminating evidence against her new employer. I found Mary's character, in particular her background, innovative and it certainly added another dimension to the book. I don't want to spoil the reading experience but I do have to wonder if a certain cigar box will resurface?

The story was deftly planned out. I only have one minor complaint. I thought a little more could have done to develop the antagonist before the big showdown and the quick explanation/confession. Since this is the first book some background had to be given--it helped create some minor storylines which were not resolved so I'm guessing they will be revisited. 

A Spy in the House has everything a well written mystery needs: an unforgettable heroine, a remarkable setting and a crime to solve. Adding in some playful romance, a spunky, unconventional main character, and interesting story developments only enriches this story more. Recommended.

Favorite excerpt: "It was more than five years since she'd worn boys' clothing. She'd almost forgotten how comfortable and practical trousers were. And with her cap pulled low over her eyes, the cabman hadn't betrayed a flicker of interest in her destination or her purpose. He'd been more worried about whether she could afford the fare. Once the investigation was finished, she would have to do this again just for fun--although she could do without the trespassing and the stinking river." (Page 94)

Cover comment: Practically perfect. 

Rating: ++++

Series: Yes. The Agency 2: The Body at the Tower will be published in August.

For fans of: YA mystery.

Book source: Library.

Reviewed by: Laurie