Scan barcode
A review by laurenjodi
What Angels Fear by C.S. Harris
4.0
What Angels Fear
4 Stars
When the body of a young woman is discovered on the steps of an alter in a London church next to a distinctive pistol, Sebastian St. Cyr becomes the prime suspect. In order to clear his name, Sebastian will have to go on the run and investigate the crime himself with the aid of Tom, a snarky street urchin, and Kat, the woman who broke his heart. Can he uncover the truth before the real killer strikes again?
A very entertaining historical mystery. Harris seamlessly merges the fictional plot with the historical facts of the regency period (although the forensic details may not be all that accurate). The investigation is fast-paced with some exciting action scenes and a satisfying climax and resolution. The characters are fleshed out well, especially Sebastian whose inner demons and intriguing abilities make him particularly endearing.
The biggest problem with the story is the unappealing heroine. Not only do I have a huge aversion to the keeping secrets trope (and she is keeping a doozy), but her actions toward the end are inconsistent with her characterization -. Moreover, she comes across as far too damaged and her relationship with Sebastian doesn't seem to be all that healthy.
In sum, the solid writing, compelling mystery and engaging hero more than make up for the minor issues and I’m looking forward to continuing with the series.
4 Stars
When the body of a young woman is discovered on the steps of an alter in a London church next to a distinctive pistol, Sebastian St. Cyr becomes the prime suspect. In order to clear his name, Sebastian will have to go on the run and investigate the crime himself with the aid of Tom, a snarky street urchin, and Kat, the woman who broke his heart. Can he uncover the truth before the real killer strikes again?
A very entertaining historical mystery. Harris seamlessly merges the fictional plot with the historical facts of the regency period (although the forensic details may not be all that accurate). The investigation is fast-paced with some exciting action scenes and a satisfying climax and resolution. The characters are fleshed out well, especially Sebastian whose inner demons and intriguing abilities make him particularly endearing.
The biggest problem with the story is the unappealing heroine. Not only do I have a huge aversion to the keeping secrets trope (and she is keeping a doozy), but her actions toward the end are inconsistent with her characterization -
Spoiler
is she a damsel in distress or a hardened spy?In sum, the solid writing, compelling mystery and engaging hero more than make up for the minor issues and I’m looking forward to continuing with the series.