“The Robe of Skulls” has a very neat plot with several interesting characters: Gracie and Prince Marcus, Lady Lamorna and Gubble, Foyce and Mange (Gracie’s step-sister and father), not forgetting the two bats, Marlon and his daughter Millie who serve as guides and protectors. Overall, I really liked THE ROBE OF SKULLS and highly recommend it! I loved how the author connected everything in a way that wasn't predictable and added to the hilarity of the book. I really enjoyed the quick-moving plot that keeps taking twists and turns. The illustrations are very comical, too! While this is definitely a middle grade novel, it is definitely suited for older and younger readers alike. While it is a super-fast read, you will find yourself enthralled with the quirkiness of the characters and loving the story. Through a twist of fate he is paired up with Gracie and they set off to put Lady Lamorna in her rightful place. When his brother is turned into a frog he is determined to find the person who committed this heinous crime. Marcus is a rather curious prince who really doesn't want anything to do with royalty. Last but not least there is the prince that scoots under Lady Lamorna's radar. He's taking her to see the Ancient Crones, who will hopefully be able to help her with her wicked stepsister and stepfather problem. Days later he returns and helps Gracie escape. When a talking bat finds her one day, he promises her a better life and takes off. When she's not spending time with the spiders under the stairs she is running after her stepfather and complying with his every wish.

Then there is Gracie Gillypot, a shy girl who spends most of her days locked up in the cellar under the stairs of her house. Her plan includes a couple of members of the royal party, some frogs, and blackmail. Instead of canceling her order, Lady Lamorna concocts a plan to pay for the dress.

When she goes to pay for it she finds that her treasure chest is empty. Her latest wish is a magnificent black velvet gown that is studded with skulls. Just above the town of Fracture lies a ghastly castle with an even ghastlier occupant, Lady Lamorna, who is just plain freaky.

The robe of skulls by vivian french