Short Synopsis
A new fantasy novel from the author of the award-winning book A Wizard's Guide To Defensive Baking.

Full Synopsis
From the author of the award-winning book A Wizard's Guide To Defensive Baking . . .

Rosa Mandolini knows in her heart that her family are the greatest painters of magical illuminations in the city. But the eccentric Studio Mandolini has fallen on hard times and the future is no longer certain. While trying to help her family, Rosa discovers a strange magical box protected by a painted crow. But when she finds a way to open the box, she accidentally releases the Scarling, a vicious monster determined to destroy the Mandolini family at any cost.

With the aid of her former best friend and a painted crow named Payne, it's up to Rosa to stop the Scarling before it unmakes the magical paintings that keep the city running, and hopefully save her family in the process!

"[Beattie] captured the fun of this story well in her narration with the exasperation of Rosa and all the big feelings she was having. . . . All the voices of the characters were distinct and easily identifiable." —Books of My Heart

"Raquel Beattie's enchanting narration elevates this fantastical misadventure featuring the Mandolinis--a family of magical artists." —AudioFile