Rummanah Aasi
  The Mysterious Howling was an entertaining read and I couldn't wait to read more of this series. The second book, The Hidden Gallery, does not disappoint. Questions about the Incorrigible’s backgrounds, Penelope’s connections to them, and Lord Ashton’s own wolfish behavior set the stage for the next act of this most excellent adventure.

Description: Thanks to their plucky governess, Miss Penelope Lumley, Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia are much more like children than wolf cubs now. They are accustomed to wearing clothes. They hardly ever howl at the moon. And for the most part, they resist the urge to chase squirrels up trees.
  Yet the Incorrigibles are not entirely civilized, and still managed to ruin Lady Constance's Christmas ball, nearly destroying the grand house. So while Ashton Place is being restored, Penelope, the Ashtons, and the children take up residence in London. As they explore the city, Penelope and the Incorrigibles discover more about themselves as clues about the children's--and Penelope's own--mysterious past crop up in the most unexpected ways.


Review: The fun and chaos continues in this enjoyable sequel to The Mysterious Howling. Transplanted to London while repairs are being made to manorial Ashton Place in the wake of the last episode's disastrous and hilarious climax of introducing the Incorrigibles at the Ashton Place's Christmas ball, inexperienced but resourceful governess Penelope Lumley looks forward to taking care of her charges in London. Though the Incorrigibles have the veneer of civilization, they still retain their wolf-like characteristics but Penelope is determined to make sure everyone has a good time and is in one piece. 
   Of course to much of Penelope's dismay and to the delight of the reader, events quickly get out of hand. The plot of the second book moves slowly compared to the first book as we are introduced to new characters with ambiguous identities, astonishing apparent coincidences and take a moment to sight-see 19th century London (which I didn't mind at all. I loved my visit to London and want to go back!) as the plot thickens.
  The plot and suspense escalates when Penelope and the Incorrgibles attend a play with pirates (who are also possibly real)- you can only imagine the trouble they get into! We also meet a dashing, helpful, unemployed playwright who I'm really hoping would be a love interest for Penelope as sparks of chemistry fly between them. More questions arise as vague warnings, references to a prophecy, and a strange guidebook emerges that might hold all the clues to Penelope and the Incorrigibles' past. I couldn't wait to jump into the third book to find out more. 

Rating: 4 stars

Words of Caution: None. Recommended for Grades 4 and up.

If you like this book try: The Unseen Guest (The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place #3), Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket, The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry
3 Responses
  1. Jenny Says:

    It's a bummer the pace of this one is a bit slower than the first book Rummanah, but it sounds like it at least picks up eventually and that's always a good thing. As is being left at the end dying to read the next book! I haven't read this series, but I they're on my list. My list that only ever seems to grow instead of shrink:) Lovely review!


  2. I wouldn't mind the London sightseeing at all, especially in a historical settings. These seem to be quirky and hilarious, two of my favorite things. :)
    Thanks for sharing your thoughts.


  3. Candace Says:

    Since I saw your review for the first I have kept my eyes out for the first book. I was hoping it would be at the book fair but it wasn't. I'm glad you enjoyed this second installment!


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