The Accidental Highwayman: Being the Tale of Kit Bristol, His Horse Midnight, a Mysterious Princess, and Sundry Magical Persons Besides

Christopher “Kit” Bristol is an orphan. He worked in a circus as a trick horse rider, and now works for a rich gentleman. Kit is happy, if a bit bored. Suddenly, Kit’s world is turned upside-down. His master comes home late one night, bleeding profusely, and soon dies. Against his master’s orders, Kit dons his master’s clothes and fulfills his master’s last wishes. Unfortunately, this frames Kit as Whistling Jack, and before the night is through, he has discovered the fairy world, obtained a wishing tooth, fought with goblings (goblings are real, goblins are not), saved a princess from an arranged marriage, and maybe fallen in love. He learns of a crazy villainous plot orchestrated by the kings of England and the magic realms. He collects a motley band consisting of a trapeze artist, a lunatic, two fairies, a noble horse, and the princess. Kit must utilize all the talents and wit available to defeat the evil kings.

My favorite thing about this book was Kit’s dry humor and kindness. The twist ending was surprising and unexpected; I did not see it coming. Readers will thrill to the excitement and action of this riveting story of bravery.