Rory is desperate to help his family earn money. When he finds a flyer advertising for a gentlemen's valet at rumored Foxglove Manor, he feels he has no choice but to take it. Treated poorly and mysteriously, Rory confides in his best friend Izzy. He starts having strange dreams and seeing strange things. He leaves the manor, but the ominous things continue. He and Izzy try to get to the bottom of it and save people's shadows before the joy and life is gone from everything.
Lots of twists and turns, especially at the end of the book. ( )

I think it is too dark for the intended audience.... ( )

Things are not too pleasant in the town of Gloom. They are, shall we say, rather gloomy. In addition, Rory and his mom are having trouble paying the rent to their mean and greedy landlord. So, Rory decides to get a job in order to help. But Rory is only twelve, and, due to his age, does not qualify for any job. Then, he sees a notice for a job as a gentleman’s valet for Lord Foxglove. He knew that it wouldn’t be easy, but, in addition to the hard and ceaseless work, he discovers some very unusual, suspicious, and dangerous happenings at the Manor.

This story gets off to a rough start with an uneven plot line, but it smooths out as the book progresses. I grew to love the characters, and the story ended up having an impact on me after all. This is a story of fantasy, magic, and amazing sea voyages. What child, big or small, wouldn’t enjoy that?

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. ( )