3.92 AVERAGE


Another finished-in-one-day reread because once I start these Julia Grey books, I can’t put them down.

The one thing that’s a little tough in this is that there are points when Julia, our narrator, figures something out and doesn’t share it with the reader. It’s a common tactic in mysteries, but it was a bigger factor in this book than it was in the last one in the series.

The ending is satisfying in some ways and a let down in others, but we know it can’t be HEA just yet.
adventurous mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

A slow-paced cozy mystery.

I enjoyed this book as much as Silent in the Grave, the villain was as unpredictable. Still kept me captivated enough to read the third instalment.
dark funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I love this series. The characters are so fun, the mysteries are cozy, the language is flowery (which, from me, is a compliment--I know others see it as a detriment, and if that's the case, this is not the series for them).

I found it a bit odd that the mystery didn't actually start until halfway through the book, but I didn't mind, because spending time in this universe with these characters is so pleasant there almost doesn't need to be a mystery--but I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the murder to happen!

I did more or less solve the murder, but I almost always do, no matter how well-written a book is. However, there were additional surprises in store at the end!

I loved the character of Charlotte and hope she makes later appearances.

The location of a certain misplaced item in the final pages of the book stressed me out to no end! I hope that that action proves endlessly rewarding as the series goes on. It is not a choice I would have made, but it speaks well of Lady Julia.

Can't wait to read the rest! 
adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

We get to meet more Marchs in their country home! After the end of the last book, and some time abroad, Lady Julia (who is becoming more and more awesome as the books continue) has been summoned home with her two brothers for the holidays. Brisbane was also invited. There are still some lovely tension-filled moments between the two of them, and a great Lady Julia taking charge moment towards the end that made me cheer out loud for her.

This second installment in the Lady Julia Gray series of historical mysteries was quite a satisfying read. I liked the mysteries and how they all wove together and the March family is endearing in its eccentricities. Lady Julia and Brisbane NEED TO GET TOGETHER ALREADY. Perhaps in the third book...

So much fun: historical fiction, handsome rogues, and an even handsomer hero, strong women, England, murder, a jewel thief, and lovers not yet really to commit or admit to their passion. Perfect page-turner to fill a mystery/romance/England need.

Lighter then Anne Perry's Monk & Pitt series, I still enjoy the verbal sparring and exchange of glances between Brisbane & Lady Julia, just waiting for the day when they finally go for it.


12/23/12