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Curtsies & ConspiraciesGail Carriger

Young adult historical fantasy

Curtsies & Conspiracies

by Gail Carriger

Book 2 of the Finishing School series

Sophronia's second term of finishing-school training brings her floating academy to London under circumstances more suspicious than an ordinary field trip. Sneaking through teachers' quarters and the dirigible's boiler room reveals a conspiracy with dangerous consequences for both humans and supernatural society. Academic rivalries, visiting boys, and a full social calendar complicate an investigation that requires her to apply lessons in deception without knowing whom to trust. Jaunty and quick-witted, this steampunk sequel suits readers who enjoy spy schools, clandestine machinery, ballroom intrigue, friendship tensions, and heroines equally prepared to eavesdrop in evening dress or climb where a proper young lady should not.

Paired for this story

Case-File Cold Brew + Honeyed Reading Mead

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense4 of 5
Creepy1 of 5
What do these symbols mean? →

No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Fantasy violence, school danger, kidnapping themes, and mild romance

Alcohol-Free Pour

Case-File Cold Brew

A brisk coffee-and-milk pour accompanies Sophronia's casework in teachers' quarters, boiler rooms, and London ballrooms.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Stir any sweetener, cocoa, or spices into the coffee until dissolved. Add milk or cream if listed and garnish as indicated.
  2. Garnish: Orange peel if listed; otherwise none.
  3. Glassware: Mug or highball glass as appropriate.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Honeyed Reading Mead

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

For adult readers, traditional honey mead offers a bright counterpoint to Sophronia's social calendar, ballroom maneuvering, and secrets aboard the floating academy.

What you'll need

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Alcohol-shopping links are not shown on children's or young-adult book pages.

How to mix it

  1. Pour into a small wine glass. Serve chilled or at the temperature recommended on your chosen bottle.
  2. Enjoy plain, or add a strip of orange peel if desired.

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