|
There's
the scarlet thread of murder running through the colourless
skein of life, and our duty is to unravel it, and isolate
it, and expose every inch of it. -- A Study in Scarlet by
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Scotland, 1831
The beautiful Lady Kiera Darby is back in her fourth mystery.
In past mysteries, readers witnessed Lady Darby's struggle
for freedom and her need to find own her voice in a male-dominated
society. In a Study of Death she continues to use her talents
and her intelligence to break down the barriers in Victorian
society. She even dares to question her handsome fiancé
and his infamous father. Sebastian Gage believes in Kiera
and knows her past. They're now engaged, and he's understands
her need for independence, except when it pushes the boundaries
of society - or his father. In this mystery, Lady Darby is
painting the portrait of Lady Drummond. She is a kind woman
suffering the effects of pregnancy and abuse. When she dies,
Kiera suspects foul play and wants to investigate. It takes
some convincing but she persuades Gage to help her find the
murderer. The two move through the various social classes
with the goal of finding answers and staying alive.
Lucky for us, Huber delivers a diverse cast of characters
and shifts the mystery enough times to keep the pages turning.
What stands out the most, besides a well-thought out mystery,
is Kiera's need to have a say in her future as well as those
around her, including Gage. Lady Darby series is an engaging
one worth following.
Fair
Warning: there are major spoilers from past mysteries.
|
