About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with peer pressure or the difficult realization that their mentors are flawed. It is an ideal pick for readers who enjoy high-stakes action but are starting to ask deeper questions about personal integrity and the courage required to say no to a powerful figure. The story follows Riley, a Victorian orphan forced into a life of crime by a manipulative illusionist, who is suddenly thrust into the modern world via a time-travel accident. While the plot is a fast-paced science fiction thriller, the heart of the book explores the heavy emotional weight of breaking free from a toxic parental figure. It deals with themes of resilience and moral courage in a way that resonates with middle schoolers. Because of its gritty Victorian setting and some moments of intense action, it is best suited for mature readers aged 10 and up who can handle a story where the line between hero and villain is tested by survival.
