Flora and Jack go to a reenactment rehearsal of the Battle of Lewes. It seemed like an interesting, fun way to pass away an afternoon while still waiting for time to go on their delayed honeymoon. Unfortunately, a man dies when he falls from the castle ramparts. Everyone initially thinks it was a tragic accident, even the usually suspicious Flora. It's only when a friend, Hector, approaches her and asks Jack and her to look into it that she begins to wonder. Jack isn't so sure they should get involved but wants to support Flora, who admittedly started questioning some likely suspects before he came aboard. Flora, as usual, always seems to crave the next adventure. That's when the book really takes off.
So, who killed Alex Vicary? Or, was it really an accident? That possibility seems to dim when there is a push back to their questioning. I mean, would someone who wasn't involved resort to violence? Now, true, Flora's questioning technique is anything but subtle but, well, threats and attempts to harm them aren't the reaction of an innocent person, no matter how aggrieved by their snooping. One of the things I most enjoy about this series is the history lessons it subtly provides, so learning a bit about castle construction and history was a plus for this former history major. At the same time, we're getting a look at Flora and Jack's everyday life, cranky stove and all, as well as the lack of respect for Flora's teaching of reading at the college where Jack is employed.
Bottom line, while frequently rolling my eyes at Flora's rushes to judgment, I enjoyed the book. The side stories, in particularly those that tied to the investigation in some way, were also intriguing. Who knew romances among friends could create so much potential for havoc? It's also telling to read of the pressure put on young women to marry asap, even against their will in Sussex in 1959. Heck, everywhere. Most still didn't drive and, in fact, Flora clings to her trusty bicycle Betsy. Even worse, the victim's wife is being pressured, even threatened, to leave their home quickly with little recourse in the matter. Could this in any way be connected to the victim? Even Flora's bookshop assistant, Rose, is being manipulated, so it all has a personal meaning to Flora. And....okay, enough teasers. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me this sneak peek into Flora's Sussex life in 1959. And, hey, readers, did you know what famous toy debuted that year? Barbie!
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