This ebook (available free on Barnes & Noble's Nook) is a simple short story (one of an anthology entitled Girls to the Rescue #1) with a reasonably predictable, innocent, and easy plot but respectable prose if not stellar writing. As one of those stories of young girls who defy the male-dominated social structures, it is an important one to read to our young girls. Lindsey rides in a joust in her brother's place.

Spoiler

The only real surprise in this tale is that she does not show her face even when she has won the tournament. She does not seem to defy the system for the sake of her recognition or rebellion (though her earlier dialogue with her brother makes it seem that that is indeed her goal) but rather merely to aid her brother. If she intended to send a message as she states she does, she spoke it softly and to only the one man in the system and her family, who embrace her for her audacity.

I liked this story better before I started reflecting on it. Reflecting on it, I'm rather disappointed with Lindsey though I should perhaps be more pleased that Lansky avoided the cliche reveal, scandal, and outrage before her acceptance. "The Royal Joust" is intended for middle-grade or elementary-age children.