The Cabinet of Wonders by Marie Rutkoski. In a world where everyone has a talent, Petra’s father is a gifted metal worker. He is hired by the Prince of Prague to create a clock designed to stun people with its sheer beauty. When the clock is finished,the Prince gouges out father’s silver eyes to keep him from ever creating another wonder. This clock is more powerful than you would imagine! Petra’s quest is to avenge the wrong done to her father and to steal back those beautiful silver eyes. This fantasy tale unfolds in Rutkoski’s 1st book of the Kronos Chronicles where readers follow Petra’s adventures into the Salamander Castle. The story is set in historical Prague, where no character is what they seem nor can any one of them be trusted. This book is stirring to read and has earned the title of “one of this year’s best fantasy books.” It certainly will excite anticipation for the continuing tales of courageous Petra and her erudite tin spider. — Julie