Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling (Delilah Dirk #2)

Gr 6 Up--Delilah Dirk has a chip on her shoulder. Of late, she lashes out at anyone who wounds her pride or name, even when the danger is great. As in Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant (First Second, 2012), her faithful friend Selim acts as the voice of reason, but stopping a resolute Delilah proves to be nearly impossible. So when a traitorous British soldier threatens her good reputation, she pursues him, bent on his downfall. England does not welcome her back, and with redcoats chasing her, she reluctantly takes refuge with her privileged family. This position gives her an advantage, but her headstrong attitude jeopardizes all: her chance at success, survival, and her bonds. Frustration and tension have a bigger presence than humor in this volume, but we get more character and relationship development because of this. Colors are key to setting the tone; when this duo arrive in England, the hues take on an overcast brown to match how stifled Delilah feels. Fortunately, heart-pounding action sequences chase such clouds away every time. VERDICT Another whirlwind adventure that builds upon Cliff's unifying factor--true friendship.--Rachel Forbes, formerly of Oakville Public Library, Ontario, Canada

What should have been a leisurely dip in a quiet pond instead lands globetrotting adventurer Delilah Dirk and her partner, Selim, in the middle of a political conspiracy in this follow-up to 2013's Delilah Dirk and the Turkish Lieutenant. The roots of their newfound predicament lie in England, currently embroiled in a bitter war with France, and involve a slimy major in the British Army who is tarnishing Delilah's reputation to obscure his own treachery. Despite Selim's reasoned warnings, Delilah itches for revenge; once in London, she's forced to endure her aristocratic mother, who is unaware of her daughter's wayward lifestyle. Can Delilah and Selim keep her secret safe while investigating the major, all without causing too much trouble? Cliff ups his game visually with a more nuanced and naturalistic style, and he doesn't miss a beat story-wise, keeping the swashbuckling front and center while adding new layers to his characters. It's the dynamic between Delilah and Selim, a headstrong woman and pliant man who remain platonic companions, that gives the book its compelling emotional center. Ages 12-up. Agent: Bernadette Baker-Baughman, Victoria Sanders & Associates. (Mar.)

"A story jam-packed with action and spectacle, but at its heart is a story of friendship and trust. A fantastic addition to a stellar series!" —Noelle Stevenson, author of Nimona

"Gorgeous." —Emily Carroll, author of Through the Woods

"With perfect comic timing and a hefty dose of charm thrown in with the adventure, Delilah Dirk and the King's Shilling is absolutely thrilling!" —Kate Beaton, author of Hark! A Vagrant

"One of the most beautifully illustrated books I've ever seen. Cheers to the swashbuckling adventures of Delilah and Selim!" —Kazu Kibuishi, author of the Amulet series

"Move over, Indiana Jones. . . . with gorgeous illustrations and clever writing, Cliff seamlessly blends action and comedy into a charming tale that is so much fun you'll wish you brought popcorn." —Entertainment Weekly

"The character development adds welcome depth to an already absorbing adventure. Irresistible and exhilarating." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Another whirlwind adventure that builds upon Cliff's unifying factor—true friendship." —School Library Journal, starred review

"It's the dynamic between Delilah and Selim, a headstrong woman and pliant man who remain platonic companions, that gives the book its compelling emotional center." —Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Cliff's artwork and storytelling skill make this graphic novel a fine purchase for those looking to expand their graphic novel collection beyond capes and manga." —Voya Magazine, starred review