"What if...?" So many "What ifs..." in this book. What if Atalanta Ashford had refused handsome race car driver Raoul Lemont's invitation? What if they hadn't taken the, wow, Orient Express? What if they hadn't met Catharina Lanetti at breakfast that morning? What if they hadn't accepted the troubled woman's invitation to the elaborate, upscale birthday party for her somewhat estranged father, Cosimo? What if....well, you get my drift.
Atalanta's mind is seemingly always racing, taking wild twists and turns during even the most mundane circumstances. While her mind soon turns to murder, initially they're focused on her relationship, which she isn't even sure is a relationship, with Raoul. He does have a way of popping up unexpectedly so, what if....no, let's not go there. Let's just say that she's drawn to him but won't quite admit it. Remember, this story is set in the much slower days of the 1930s.
Needless to say, they arrive for the party and Atalanta, who still isn't accustomed to her inherited status of wealth, is awed by the surroundings. She is equally astounded at the tensions and power struggles within the family. While Cosimo's late first wife seems almost saintly by description, second wife Melina is lovely but, umm, abrasive. The brothers Lorenzo and Giovanni dislike each other and both want control of the business when their father passes. And, pass he does. Who kills Cosimo? Was Catharina's present to him a hint? Is it true people die where she goes? Could the brothers have tired of waiting for their chance to lead? Could Catharina be next? How long do some people hold a grudge? What if....oops, back to that again. But, enough hints.
While the plot unfolds slower than I've grown accustomed to of late, the unfolding is perfect for the time and setting. The author does a wonderful job painting the scene for us, the people, customs, lush colors and scenery, much while Raoul drives leisurely through the countryside, stopping in small villages and pubs, introducing Atalanta to his Italy. So, don't rush through the interludes as they're lovely snapshots of the times and places. As for the mystery itself, it held my attention and made me hungry for some sightseeing. Thanks#NetGalley and #HarperCollinsUK - #OneMoreChapter for inviting me along for Raoul and Atalanta's lovely excursion. After that hint in the last sentence, must admit I'm curious to see where this is going.
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