THE LEAGUE OF DANGEROUS YOUNG LADIES, by J. A. Morgenstein, Stonefruit Studio, June 2, 2026, Hardcover, $19.99 (young adult)
The daughters of well-known literary and historical figures band together to hunt monsters in The League of Dangerous Young Ladies, by J. A. Morgenstein.
It’s 1909 and Rose Moriarty―teenage daughter of Sherlock Holmes’ greatest enemy―has made a name for herself fighting monsters and solving crimes. But that was before Rose met the one mystery she couldn’t solve: the disappearance of her headmistress. Now, her school has shut down, her classmates have scattered, and Rose is on her own.
On the very day Rose receives word that an old friend is dying, the shadowy Count Christoph and his ward Clara show up at her door. Rose has already figured out why they’re here (to hire her) and what’s in their bag (an ancient orb with incredible powers), but questions remain: Can Rose convince these strangers to help save her friend’s life? What are the grotesque, bug-shaped stalkers that plague their every step? And how can Rose pursue this adventure while avoiding a particular boy from her childhood? The only thing certain is that Rose is no longer alone, because danger forges strange alliances . . .
. . . and Professor Moriarty wasn’t the only famous villain to have a daughter. —Synopsis provided by Stonefruit Studio
The League of Dangerous Young Ladies is being billed as Enola Holmes meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and that’s an apt description. This smart fantasy adventure features bright text and unexpected references to period literature.
The League of Dangerous Young Ladies is J. A. Morgenstein’s debut novel, and while the first couple of chapters don’t move particularly quick, they set the tone and make you want to know more.
Rose is an exciting protagonist who carries the story forward with ease. But that ease is supported by a strong cast of secondary characters with nods to Dr. Moreau, Tesla, Dr. Frankenstein and Count Dracula, adding depth and interest along the way.
The League of Dangerous Young Ladies is a fast-moving adventure that features themes of friendship, family, and light romance. It’s easy to see this world expanding into a larger series. It has broad appeal, even for readers who may not be familiar with all the literary and historical characters. It’s great fun.
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