Mad Miss Mimic by Sarah Henstra

In 1872, the opium trade and a mysterious gang called the Black Glove are causing havoc in London. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Leonora Somerville struggles with a speech disorder—she stutters and impeccably imitates other people’s voices, earning her the nickname Mad Miss Mimic.

Leo, as she prefers to be called, lives with her sister and brother-in-law, Dr. Dewhurst. Leo becomes uneasy as she realizes that lower-class patients are dying in Dr. Dewhurst’s care as he experiments on them with an injectable form of opium.

Leo is flattered when Dr. Dewhurst’s business partner, the wealthy and politically connected Francis Thornfax, begins to court her. But her uneasiness with both men’s ethics, as well as her growing interest in Tom Rampling—their lower-class assistant—force her to face danger and pain as she seeks out the truth.

Fast-paced and exciting,this young adult novel introduces readers to an intriguing character who learns how “a person grows brave.” (Razorbill)