A fairy tale whodunit by the Newbery Honor author of Ella Enchanted featuring an aspiring actress, a dragon detective and a case of a shape-shifting ogre.

Elodie journeys to the town of Two Castles to become a mansioner—an actress—but the master of the troupe turns her away. The only one who will take Elodie in is Meenore, a dragon who happens to be a brilliant detective. To crack Meenore’s newest case, Elodie goes undercover on a dangerous mission within an ogre’s castle. There, disguised as a kitchen maid, Elodie plays the role of a lifetime, pitted against a deadly foe . . .

Praise for A Tale of Two Castles

“A thoroughly delicious romp from the author of Ella Enchanted. . . . The plot is winningly unpredictable, the characters easy to relate to, the humor subtle and the action well-paced. Newbery Honor–winner Levine has once again breathed new life into old stories.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Readers are certain to be pulled, like Elodie herself, right into the midst of the rich and swirling life of Two Castles.” —School Library Journal

“Carson crafts a persuasive fantasy realm and a capable heroine. Readers . . . will likely anticipate further sleuthing adventures with this companionable duo.” —Publishers Weekly