Being a history buff, I must to admit to putting the book aside a few time to search out some event or name mentioned. What a delight to learn that the Asylum for Female Orphans was real, not to mention much of the unrest that plays a vital role in this book. As with the first book of the series, I did find this one slow going at times, probably partly because it takes my awhile to adjust to sorting out who is who with all the names and titles and even nicknames used. That said, just keep reading. Without me really even noticing it, the pace did pick up as the book went along. It's been awhile since I've read a Regency based book, so this may be deliberate. It didn't particularly detract from the story, which was an interesting one, but did allow me to sort out names and relationships and adjust to the pace.
Lady Petra is a likable character although she seemed quick to jump to conclusions, especially where her childhood friend and current lover Duncan was involved. I don't recall her being quite as hasty in book one but it's been awhile since I read that one, so possible. The surrounding cast of characters, from royalty, ie Queen Charlotte who directs her to investigate strange goings-on at the asylum, to her dog whisperer of a friend, Miss Charlotte "Lotte" Reed to Vera, the Dowager Countess Grimley, are an interesting lot. Street urchin Teddy is a dear and seems to have some investigative chops, so I'm hoping he'll be back next book, and orphan Nell, who claims she's due money at age 21, probably from a high society father, is also a winner that I hope will be back. Duncan, of course, who is missing for a big chunk of the book but ultimately plays a central role, remains front and center in Petra's thoughts, that's for sure. Mysteriously going missing, he leaves behind a cryptic note that does little to sooth Petra's emotions after she receives a note accusing him of murdering her former beloved. Could he be guilty of that as well as treason? Yikes.
As for the murder, it was an intriguing one. Not quite what it appeared to be. Nor does everything seem quite right at the asylum. I won't detail the plot because it's intriguing to see it unfold slowly, ever so slowly as the plot progresses, but will say it does involve possible treason and the royal family. Petra is trying to sort out her own romantic concerns, of course, while dealing with all the rest. Is the answer to what befell her beloved Emerson somehow woven into this web of intrigue? And, who are Bellowers? What is the significance of that name? Will Petra, brave but occasionally impulsive, put herself into danger? Bet you can guess the answer to that. I mean, it starts with her trying to steal a letter... from the Queen! How will it all play out? Will Duncan be a good guy or has he betrayed her and the realm? Thanks to #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for allowing me to take an early time travel capsule back to the Regency Age. The history major and mystery fan in me was a happy camper.
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