The Royal Search for Shenanigans - (Secrets of Zen Castle) by Nita Marie Clark (Hardcover)

About the Book

Danger, dragons, and destiny await young Princess Lillian as she discovers clues left behind by three previous Princesses, in the new suite in the castle where she now resides.

Book Synopsis

A land that has been locked in isolation more than three hundred years ago by a young princess as a time out of sorts for a misbehaving older brother. This action weaved a long thread of magic that requires a special princess from each century to become part of the adventure. Each princess was to share her story and leave clues for the next princess to follow while preserving it's secret. Our heroine Princess Lillian finds that although she is the youngest of the predestined princesses she also has inherited the complicated task of completing the final phase of this century old plan. Using intelligence, ingenuity, bravery, and a centuries old set of Princess Rules to guide her, Lillian achieves a successful outcome to free The Land Of Shenanigans.

Review Quotes

Reviewed By K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Royal Search for Shenanigans is a work of fiction in the adventure sub-genre, penned for children by author Nita Marie Clark with illustrations by Kathy Doherty. This delightful and partially illustrated chapter book is a great introduction to independent reading for young children, and it forms the first book in The Secrets of Zen Castle Series. In this adventure, the forthright and confident Princess Lillian examines a treasure trove of clues that she discovers in her family heritage, which leads her to an incredible new land. Dragons, danger, and doom abound, but can Lillian learn the true rules of being a princess and save the day in time?

Author Nita Marie Clark has crafted a superb and immersive adventure novel that combines the modern and traditional fantasy fairytale genres really well. Lillian is an excellent example of a subversion of the traditional princess roles, and here she is transformed into a heroic figure who is proactive in her own destiny and decision-making. Children of all ages are sure to find enchantment in the magical elements and creative creatures within the tale, and the illustrations by Kathy Doherty will help the imagination along for young readers encountering chapter books for the first time. I also enjoyed the fact that the princess's rules present a good moral message for young readers on how to behave well and be kind and fair to others. Overall, I would highly recommend The Royal Search for Shenanigans for young readers looking for a hearty new adventure.