★ "Murphy’s world-building is extraordinary. Readers will delight in exploring the intricate passageways and elaborate furnishings of the mansion.... Murphy’s attention to detail is delicious... A great fantasy for middle school readers who need an age-appropriate challenge that won’t burn their eyes."—School Library Journal, STARRED review ★"An assured blend of historical fiction and fantasy, with satisfyingly researched details appearing alongside a simple but powerful system of magic.... Most satisfying is the book’s villain, an occasional narrator whose identity is revealed in time. Murphy has created a more nuanced villain than is usually attempted in YA fantasy, with valid (yet misguided) goals and easily understandable, even sympathetic motivations. Marit’s struggle to find and protect her found family, the lush and hygge-filled Scandinavian surroundings and the thrilling showdown with a complex villain make Splinters of Scarlet a finely woven tale perfect for historical fiction and fantasy readers alike."—BookPage, STARRED review "Part wish-fulfillment fantasy, with lavish descriptions of clothing, food, and flowers, part gritty whodunit....Come for the ballet costumes, stay for the exposé of corruption." —Kirkus   "Set against the backdrop of nineteenth-century Denmark, this standalone historical fantasy has an intriguing premise and a large cast. Hand to fans of dangerous magic and found families." —Booklist   "Readers can take aesthetic pleasure in the magical gowns Marit creates and the lush, gilded world of privilege in 1860s Denmark." —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books