(3) 4-6 Illustrated by Amanda Hall. Ten stories of Hindu gods and goddesses, kings and queens, including "How Ganesh Got His Elephant's Head" and "The Birth of Lord Krishna," are lyrically told. Highly detailed gouache paintings, inspired by eighteenth-century Indian miniatures, highlight both magical elements and earthly life. Decorative borders and golden elements enhance the attractive book, but no sources are provided. Glos.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(4) YA Twelve-year-old Nettie Roberts lives in the lap of luxury and has never questioned her circumstances. Then her beloved tutor disappears and Nettie uncovers a cache of dark family secrets, including ties to human trafficking. Gavin's flair for action promises a gripping read, but the mystery soon descends into melodrama and Nettie, saved by convenient helpers, remains unempowered until an abrupt ending.

Reviewer: Hannah Rodgers Barnaby

(4) YA Meshak is an awkward, simple-minded boy of fourteen; Alexander is a musical genius whose father forbids music; Melissa is the beautiful daughter of a governess. Their lives connect as they encounter a world of murder, slavery, child abuse, despair, and redemption. Gavin creates a large cast of somewhat stereotypical characters to tell this intriguing, if melodramatic, tale.

Reviewer: Jeannine M. Chapman