Book Review: 'Absolution By Murder' by Peter Tremayne

✰✰✰✰ Sister Fidelma of Kildare has trained as an advocate of the courts. Her special skills are requested by the King of Northumbria to help decide the religious future of the people. However, before important decisions can be made, a leading Celtic speaker is found dead. Amid the chaos that ensues, Sister Fidelma must seek the truth and ferret out a killer before it happens again. With the help Brother Eadulf, Sister Fidelma deftly navigates the twists and turns of this skillfully written mystery. 

The Bottom Line: Over the years, I have read and enjoyed several of the short stories featuring Sister Fidelma. At a patron's insistence, I tracked down a copy of the first installment in the series, and I'm glad I did. Starting from the beginning has added a lot of information and enjoyment to my reading. Mystery fans interested in ancient Ireland and religious settings will find this enjoyable reading. There are currently 34 books in the series, and I am looking forward to reading book two. 

Details: Absolution by Murder (A Mystery of Ancient Ireland) (A Sister Fidelma Mystery) by Peter Tremayne. Paperback published by A Signet Book in 1997. 272 p. ISBN: 978-0-451-19299-8 

Book Review: 'Aggie Morton, Mystery Queen: The Dead Man in the Garden' by Marthe Jocelyn

✰✰✰✰½ The third book in the series takes the young detective, Aggie Morton, and her pal, Hector, to a Yorkshire spa, where Aggie's recently widowed mother can take the waters and recuperate. Along with Grannie Jane, they all could use a break. As Aggie's mother settles in to her schedule of treatment, Aggie and Hector stumble onto not one crime, but two! The two young sleuths are delighted at the challenge, but with two mysteries to solve the stakes are higher. Together with the help of a young disabled patient and Grannie Jane, Aggie & Hector must get help before they meet their demise.

The Bottom Line: This installment was a quick, pleasant read that takes one back to a different era. The two sleuths have grown in their abilities to solve crimes and work well together as a team. Highly recommended for young fans of mysteries and historical fiction. I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book in the series.

Details: Aggie Morton, Mystery Queen: The Dead Man in the Garden by Marthe Jocelyn. Published by Tundra Books in 2022. 368 p. ISBN: 978-0735270817 [NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program.] 

Book Review: 'The Secret Starling' by Judith Eagle

✰✰✰½ From the moment Clara Starling was taken in by her Uncle, her life has been full of routine and gloom. Nothing ever exciting ever happened until the day her uncle dropped her off at a cafe and disappeared. With no other options, Clara heads home to Braithwaite Manor only find an orphan named Peter and his cat. With no adults around to spoil the fun, the children can do whatever they want. Soon their games uncover a worn ballet slipper that takes them on an adventure to London and the Royal Opera House. As Clara begins to uncover information about her parents the duo are chased by villains and uncover a tale of glamour, romance, and murder. With time of the essence, it's up to Clara and Peter to unravel the secrets of the Starling family.

The Bottom Line: Although the beginning was a bit of a slow read for me, the pace picked up to reveal family secrets and twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. Although the final interior images were not available in the advance reading copy, the preliminary sketches were charming. An enjoyable treat for middle grade readers who favor historical fiction about dance and friendship.

Details: The Secret Starling written by Judith Eagle & illustrated by Jo Rioux. Advance reading copy published in 2021. 256 p. ISBN: 978-1-536213652 [NOTE: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the publisher and the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program.] 

Book Review: 'Amber and Clay' by Laura Amy Schlitz

✰✰✰✰½ Travel back in time to Ancient Greece through the poetry and prose of Newbery Medal Winner Laura Amy Schlitz. It was a time when people were restricted to the boundaries of class. A time when households owned slaves. Melisto was born into a noble family, but unloved by her mother; while Rhaskos was born to a slave woman, who loved him with all her heart. This girl and boy with nothing in common would someday forge a friendship that would free them both. This is their story told in their voices and in the voices of others like the Greek god Hermes and the philosopher Sokrates. This haunting tale of a wellborn girl and a slave boy illustrates power of friendship and love that knows no bounds.

The Bottom Line: Don't be dissuaded from picking up this book because of its page count; the mix of poetry, prose, and illustrations of archaeological exhibits makes for quick reading. The author deftly transforms the reader into the audience, and the story is like watching a play. Once I started reading, I was transfixed. Very highly recommended for young adults and adult interested in historical fiction, Greek mythology, and supernatural tales of friendship. 

Details: Amber and Clay written by Laura Amy Schlitz & illustrated by Julia Iredale. Advance reading copy published by Candlewick Press in 2021. 544 p. ISBN: 978-5362-0122-2 

[NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers Program at LibraryThing. Some interior images were not final at the time this review was written.] 

Book Review: 'Aggie Morton: Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano' by Marthe Jocelyn

✰✰✰½ When well-to-do, but shy, Aggie Morton discovers a body, the young girl quickly learns to accept getting out of her comfort zone. With the help of a young boy from Belgium, the new friends begin to uncover the clues to solving the crime. Unfortunately, the police seem to be following the clues down a different path. With time running out, the timid young girl and her foreign friend must sort everything out before danger befalls them as well. Pick up this mystery set in the seaside town of Torquay, England in 1902 for a tale of adventure and mischief.

The Bottom Line: This middle grade novel is a sweet nod to the real Queen of Mystery (Agatha Christie) and one of her leading characters (Hercule Poirot). While the beginning was a bit slow, the story picked up the pace in the middle and end for a surprising ending. Young fans of mystery and historical fiction will enjoy these characters in this new mystery series.

Details: Aggie Morton: Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano by Marthe Jocelyn. Hardcover published by Tundra in 2020. 336 p. ISBN: 978-0-7352-6546-2 NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the LibraryThing Early Reviewers program. 

Book Review: 'Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen' by Anne Nesbet

✰✰✰✰ Darleen Darling is a young silent film star who's life is about to get even more daring. When her family's studio decides to generate some extra publicity with a fake kidnapping stunt, things go terribly wrong. Not only does Darleen get kidnapped for real, but she stumbles upon another kidnapping already taking place. To her surprise, the captive is none other than heiress Miss Victorine Berryman!

It's evident quite quickly that the two captives are in a heap of trouble. When it's obvious help isn't coming, the two young girls quickly become friends and hatch a plan to rescue themselves. With daring escapes, murderous plans, and danger around every corner, their daring rescue unfolds like an adventure movie serial. Will the two manage to outwit their captors or will evil prevail? Check out this captivating read to find out.

The Bottom Line: This tale of adventure is a quick read that will keep kids in middle school turning the pages. The escapes and plots are fun to read, but the budding friendship between two very different (and very resourceful) young ladies is what really shines through. I'm looking forward to reading more mysteries featuring these two clever heroines. Highly recommended for young fans of mysteries and historical fiction. 

Details: Daring Darleen, Queen of the Screen by Anne Nesbet. ARC published by Candlewick Press in 2020. 368 p. ISBN: 978-1-5362-0619-7  [NOTE: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.] 

Book Review: 'The Turnkey of Highgate Cemetery' by Allison Rushby

✰✰✰✰ Twelve-year-old Flossie Birdwhistle may have thought death meant peaceful rest, but she was wrong. She has a job in the afterlife, a very important job. As turnkey of London's Highgate Cemetery, she cares for all the souls buried there making sure they are content and at rest. Unfortunately, this is especially difficult during World War II.

When Flossie happens to spot the ghost of a German soldier, she has a feeling it is up to no good. It's only a matter of time before she uncovers a plot that could jeopardize both her cemetery and all of England. Flossie and her ghost friends must find a way to save both and set things right before it is too late.

The Bottom Line: This Gothic mystery for middle grade readers is a delight to read. Filled with relatable characters, a bit of history, and a dash of the supernatural, this quick read takes the reader on many twists and turns. Highly recommended for middle grade and YA readers looking for a slightly dark, but engaging mystery. I hope there are more books to follow.

Details: The Turnkey of Highgate Cemetery by Allison Rushby. Hardcover published by Candlewick Press in 2018. 256 p. ISBN: 978-0-7636-9685-6 NOTE:  I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'Lucifer's Harvest' by Mel Starr

✰✰✰½ Prince Edward has requested that Lord Gilbert Talbot provide soldiers for a battle in France. And so it is that Hugh de Singleton, surgeon, reluctantly leaves his growing family in Bampton, not to fight, but to treat the wounded. Along the way Master Hugh has a run-in with his nemesis, Sir Simon Trillowe. Master Hugh vows not to let his guard down. Unfortunately, when Sir Simon ends up the victim of foul play, naturally everyone blames Master Hugh. With the help of his allies, Master Hugh has little time to investigate in order to try to clear his name before the battle begins.

The Bottom Line: The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon is a cozy mystery series that I always look forward to reading. The 9th installment is a page-turner. It's a very quick and enjoyable read. Plus, I always learn something new about medieval life. Those new to the series will find ample backstory included without having to read the books in order. Enthusiastically recommended to fans of medieval mysteries, Christian fiction, and cozies. A glossary of medieval terms and a map are included.

Details: Lucifer's Harvest (The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon) by Mel Starr. Paperback published by Lion Fiction in 2016. 160 p. ISBN: 978-1-78264-188-9 NOTE: I received a free copy from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers Program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'Secrets In the Snow' by Michaela MacColl

✰✰✰½ Young Jane Austen is busy working on a draft of Elinor and Marianne when a family friend introduces her to a charming young man, Tom Lefroy. Jane is amused and annoyed at the prospect at the same time. Since the Austen family is poor, it is important for the daughters to be married off. However, clever Jane has a habit of turning every single suitor away.

Before she has a chance to get to know Mr. Lefroy, mystery arrives by way of her sophisticated cousin. It seems the War Office is keeping an eye of the vivacious, beautiful widow. With clandestine meetings and a gruesome murder, readers will get plenty of mystery and suspense in this well-researched novel.

The Bottom Line: This delightful imagining of a young Jane Austen is a fun, quick read sprinkled with romance and suspense. Recommended for teens and adults interested in historical fiction and Jane Austen.

Details: Secrets in the Snow: A Novel of Intrigue and Romance by Michaela MacColl. Hardcover published by Chronicle Books in 2016 288 p. ISBN: 978-1-4521-3358-4 NOTE: I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust' by Alan Bradley

✰✰✰✰ After finally putting her mother to rest, Flavia de Luce is suddenly banished from her beloved ancestral home, Buckshaw, and England. Transported to Canada, Flavia is enrolled in Miss Bodycote’s Female Academy like her mother had been. Before Flavia has time to settle into the boarding school, a gruesome corpse is discovered. Quick as a wink, Flavia is on the case. In between attending classes, making friends, and avoiding new enemies, Flavia must navigate a minefield of dangerous situations. Along the way she discovers that students have gone missing and that Miss Bodycote’s is no ordinary school. With danger around every corner, the stakes are high as Flavia rushes solve the mysteries and discover more information about her family’s secrets and her own personal destiny,

The Bottom Line: In this installment Flavia faces new challenges, while continuing to be as charming and brilliant as ever. This cozy series is a must-read for both adult and young adult mystery aficionados. Like previous installments, this book is a quick and fun read perfect for weekend or beach reading.

Details: As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust: A Flavia de Luce Novel by Alan Bradley. Hardcover published by Delacorte Press in 2015. 416 p. ISBN: 978-0-345-53993-9

Book Review: 'The Pierced Heart' by Lynn Shepherd

✰✰✰✰ After an Austrian nobleman offers a sizable donation to the University of Oxford, private investigator, Charles Maddox, is sent on a quest to vet the mysterious benefactor. Maddox soon discovers that the Viennese countryside is steeped with superstitious tales about the baron and his castle. As the days go by, disturbing dreams and incidents haunt Maddox. After nearly dying, Maddox returns to London where a series of horrific murders have taken place. The deaths are rumored to be the work of a vampire, but Maddox suspects his nemesis, the baron. With another young woman missing, Maddox must race against time to find her before another innocent dies.

The Bottom Line: This is the third book in a series; each book pays homage to a literary classic. This dark installment plays off Bram Stoker's Dracula. Although I have not read the previous books, Shepherd includes plenty of back story so the reader does not feel lost.

This book got off to a slow, smoldering start as I adjusted to the writing style. The story jumps back and forth between different points of view and times. However, the book is full of mystery and intrigue. Shepherd has braided together the elements of superstition, science, and classic literature to create a gripping suspense that I couldn't put down. With the paranormal twist and Gothic mood, this book will appeal to fans of historical fiction. A word of caution though...this tale is not for squeamish readers.

Details: The Pierced Heart: A Novel by Lynn Shepherd. Hardcover published by Delacorte Press in 2014. 256 p. ISBN: 978-0-345-54543-5 NOTE: I received a free copy from Delacorte Press in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing. 

Book Review: 'The Abbot's Agreement' by Mel Starr

✰✰✰✰✰ Things are not as they should be at tranquil Eynsham Abbey. On his way to Oxford, Hugh de Singleton, surgeon, happens upon the mutilated body of a young Benedictine novice. At the nearby abbey, Hugh learns of a lad who has been missing for four days. Upon further examination of the body, Hugh discovers 'twas not the plague that did him in, but murder. To Hugh's dismay, the abbot commissions him to uncover the culprit in exchange for a Bible. Although the abbot only asks for his best effort, Hugh soon questions his decision to accept. The investigation takes several complicated twists and turns as Hugh seeks a killer and uncovers a sinister secret hidden within Eynsham Abbey.

The Bottom Line: The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon are one of my favorite mystery series. In the 7th installment, Hugh's character continues to evolve as both his family and his responsibilities grow. Like the previous books, this is written in the first person in the form of a journal. This quick read touches on darker topics than previous books, and author Mel Starr includes plenty of red herrings to keep readers guessing. My only complaint is that this installment is too short; I'm already looking forward to the next one. Readers of medieval mysteries and Christian fiction will want to give this series a try. Those new to the series will find ample backstory included without having to read the books in order. A glossary of medieval terms and maps are included.

Details: The Abbot's Agreement (The Chronicles of Hugh de Singleton, surgeon) by Mel Starr. Paperback published by Lion Fiction in 2014. 256 p. ISBN: 978-1-78264-109-4 NOTE: I received a free copy from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'Blood on the Water' by Anne Perry

✰✰✰½ In the twentieth William Monk mystery, Monk witnesses the spectacular explosion of the Princess Mary, a pleasure boat. With pieces of debris and bodies everywhere, Monk and the River Police rush into action. Soon it is clear that this was no accident. Before Monk can begin his investigation, the case is handed over to the Metropolitan Police. Although a man is quickly caught, tried, and sentenced, Monk discovers that the defendant was somewhere else at the time of the blast. Now with the case back in his hands, Monk must sift through the twists and turns of the investigation before he or others end up dead.

The Bottom Line: With international intrigue and lots of courtroom scenes, this complicated mystery is a page-turner. Having not read the previous books in the series, I was missing some of the backstory of the characters; however, this did not deter from my enjoyment of the novel. Recommended for fans of mysteries and historical fiction.

Details: Blood on the Water: A William Monk Novel by Anne Perry. Hardcover published by Ballantine Books in 2014. 320 p. ISBN: 978-0-345-54843-6 NOTE: I received a free copy from Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Swallow' by Charis Cotter

✰✰✰✰✰ Polly and Rose are two lonely 12-year-old girls who feel invisible to everyone. Set in the 1960s in Toronto during an outbreak of meningitis, the girls live right next door to each other. One day the girls discover that they can communicate through a shared wall in the attic. Besides being the same age, the girls learn that they are nearly exact opposites. Polly comes from a large family, while Rose is an only child. Polly is boisterous, while Rose is reserved. Polly wishes she could see ghosts, while Rose wishes she didn't. In fact, Polly is so convinced that Rose is actually a ghost, she sets out to prove it.

Follow Polly through the many twists and turns of this gothic ghost story with a surprise ending. You won't be disappointed.

The Bottom Line: This is a bittersweet story of friendship.Written from two points of view, each character has a distinctive voice. I enjoyed the use of mood, setting, and hints employed by the author to keep readers guessing. Readers will appreciate the short chapters making this book a very quick read. Check it out if you enjoyed the movie "The Sixth Sense." Very highly recommended for tweens interested in ghost stories and paranormal fiction. This would make a great gift.

Details: The Swallow: A Ghost Story by Charis Cotter. Hardcover published by Tundra Books in 2014. 322 p. ISBN: 978-1-77049-591-3  Note: I received a free copy from Tundra Books in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Great Trouble' by Deborah Hopkinson

✰✰✰½ Eel is a young orphan just trying to scrape by on what he finds as a mudlark. As he struggles to save what he earns in order to protect a secret, a disease descends upon Victorian London. Hundreds of people in the Broad Street district succumb to what is believed to be bad air. In an effort to help his neighbors, young Eel turns to Dr. John Snow. However, instead of doctoring to the people of Broad Street, Dr. Snow takes a different approach. Drafted into helping the untiring Dr. Snow, Eel works ceaselessly to help create a map that will both enlighten the scientific community and help solve this medical mystery. Eel must race against the ravages of the disease to find where it all began, before it starts all over again.

The Bottom Line: This book will appeal to young fans of historical fiction. While cholera is an unpleasant topic, this fictional story brings to light a disease that rears its ugly head even in modern times. Recommended for middle grade readers and young adults who enjoy Dickensian tales and historical fiction set in London.

Details: The Great Trouble: A Mystery of London, the Blue Death, and a Boy Called Eel by Deborah Hopkinson. Hardcover published by Alfred A. Knopf in 2013. 256 p. ISBN: 978-0375848186

Book Review: 'Cy in Chains' by David L. Dudley

✰✰✰✰✰ The 1890s were a difficult time in American history. After slavery had ended, African Americans were free; however, they were still expected to obey the white men. Punishments for disobedience in rural Georgia at the time included being whipped, abused, and killed. Thirteen-year-old Cy Williams has grown up with this unsavory fact of life. He lives with his father on the Strong plantation. He, also, knows how to stay out of trouble and mind his own business. However, when the plantation owner's son, Travis, runs away, Cy goes after his young friend. The result is a tragedy that is unfairly blamed on Cy.

Cy is promptly sent to a chain gang, where the challenges he faced before pale in comparison to life in the labor camp. Conditions at the camp are horrific and leave little hope for freedom or joy. Faced with brutal beatings and sexual abuse over four years, Cy changes from an innocent young boy into an angry young man and finally into a leader the others look up to. Before the story is finished, Cy will risk everything for his friends, himself, and freedom.

The Bottom Line: I received an advance reading copy from the publisher while I was attending the 2013 ALA conference. When I finally got around to reading it, I was hesitant at first. To be honest, I don't read a lot of historical fiction. That being said, Cy in Chains drew me in from the very first page. In fact, I couldn't put it down. Author David L. Dudley has a talent for making the reader feel as if she is right there witnessing the atrocities of the era. The images were so vivid, and the characters were so believable. With each chapter, I just had to know what would happen next. Although the bittersweet ending brought me to tears, I will remember this book for a long time to come.

Highly recommended for mature young adult readers and adults interested in historical fiction. This fast-paced and compelling book explores justice, race relations, and what it means to be free. This would be an excellent pick for a book club as well. NOTE: This book includes graphic depictions of abuse which may not be appropriate for younger readers.

Details: Cy in Chains by David L. Dudley. Advance reading copy published by Clarion Books in 2013. 336 p. ISBN: 978-0-547-91068-0 NOTE: I received a free ARC from the publisher in exchange for nothing.

Book Review: 'Rest Not in Peace' by Mel Starr

✰✰✰✰✰ Sir Henry Burley and his entourage have overstayed their welcome at Lord Gilbert's castle. Unfortunately Lord Gilbert must allow them to stay a little while longer after Sir Henry is found dead in his bed. Lady Margery, Sir Henry's widow, is quick to point an accusing finger at Hugh, who gave the knight a sleeping draught. Although the death appears natural at first, Hugh's keen sense of observation soon takes the investigation in another direction.

Lady Margery is eager to move on, but before she can, Hugh must clear his name and find out who in the castle wanted the man dead. It seems that the penniless knight had no shortage of enemies, but who would have access to commit the crime? After all Bampton castle is secure at night. It is up to Hugh to uncover clues and family secrets that will lead him to the real murderer before the grieving widow takes flight.

The Bottom Line: This well-told tale will appeal to a wide audience and is highly recommended for readers who enjoy cozies, medieval mysteries, and Christian fiction. Written in first person, the writing style is accessible and reveals the main character's thoughts and observations. This is a very fast paced book with lots of twists and turns. Author Mel Starr keeps the reader guessing in this house party style mystery. This series continues to get better and better as Hugh's character continues to grow and struggle with both his sense of responsibility and faith. 

While it is not necessary to read the books in order, the series can be best appreciated if one does. Also, this book includes a glossary of medieval terms and a map of Bampton. Finally, descriptions of several medieval medical procedures are included, but are not too graphic for the average reader. 

Details: Rest Not in Peace by Mel Starr. Paperback published by Lion Fiction in 2013. 256 p. ISBN: 978-1-78264-008-0 NOTE: I received an Advance Reading Copy from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Tainted Coin' by Mel Starr

✰✰✰✰½ The fifth installment finds Hugh still holding down two vastly different jobs: bailiff and surgeon. As a new father, Hugh must learn to balance his concerns for his family’s safety with his work responsibilities. So when a chapman is found beaten, Hugh is summoned to provide aid. Unfortunately, the chapman is mortally wounded. Before dying, the chapman mutters a simple, yet puzzling, phrase. Then as Hugh helps bury the man, an ancient coin falls out of the man’s mouth.

Written in first person, Hugh chronicles his personal observations and actions as he searches for the both the murderer and the origin of the strange, ancient coin. As Hugh and his brawny sidekick, Arthur, investigate the matter, the mystery becomes more complex. Adding to the challenge, Hugh’s nemesis, Sir Simon Trillowe, returns with his minions. Thus, when his wife and child are attacked, Hugh is faced with a moral dilemma. Before he can find closure for the chapman’s death, Hugh must struggle with his conscience, faith, and duty to do what is right.

The Bottom Line: Starr’s medieval series is one of my favorites, and I look forward to each installment for an entertaining read. I find the language and information about culture included in these books to be fascinating. I’ve enjoyed watching Hugh’s character evolve. However, this installment includes less input from his wife Kate; I missed her wit and quick thinking.

This is a fast-paced read with lots of action, twists, and turns. While descriptions of medical procedures are included in the text, this installment is not too graphic. Also, I have enjoyed reading the books in order; however, each book may be read as a stand-alone. I, for one, am hooked on the series and highly recommend it for fans of medieval mysteries, historical fiction, and Christian fiction. As with the previous books, this book includes a glossary of medieval words and a map of the local area.

Details: The Tainted Coin: The Fifth Chronicle of Hugh de Singleton, Surgeon by Mel Starr. Paperback published by Monarch Books in 2012. 240 p. ISBN: 978-0-85721-250-4 NOTE: I received an Advance Reading Copy from Kregel Publications in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.  

Book Review: 'Behind the Shattered Glass' by Tasha Alexander

✰✰✰½ Lady Emily is just settling into married life and enjoying being a new mom, when the peace of country estate life is shattered by a murder. On a warm autumn evening the new Marquess of Montagu, Archibald Scolfield, staggered through the French doors and died on the library floor. The family is stunned, and Lady Emily is thrown into a new mystery to solve. Having just arrived the day before, the dead Marquess didn't have time to make enemies or did he? His cousin, Matilda, stood to gain the most from his death, but when Archibald's engagement to an American heiress comes to light, so do other family secrets.

With a zeal for finding clues, Lady Emily wastes no time in getting involved. It seems that Archibald was popular with women from all stations in life, and left a trail of broken hearts behind where ever he went. When an unknown relative arrives to claim the Montagu title, the plot thickens. Meanwhile, Colin's friend, Lord Flyte, has taken a fancy to one of the maids causing jealousy and strife amongst the servants. Lady Emily must not only solve the mystery and help her friend Matilda, but she must continue to oversee managing the busy country estate as well.

The Bottom Line: This installment is Book 8 in the series; however, it is the first book in the series that I have read. While it has received mixed reviews elsewhere, I found the story to be fun and fanciful. It's a quick and entertaining read that's perfect for the weekend. I enjoyed the period details and descriptions of country estate life. Lady Emily is spunky and forward thinking. Each chapter includes an upstairs part and a downstairs part, which I enjoyed as well. Fans of historical mysteries and Downton Abbey will enjoy this novel. There was also quite a bit of romance in this book.

Details: Behind the Shattered Glass: A Lady Emily Mystery by Tasha Alexander. Hardcover published by Minotaur Books in 2013. 304 p. ISBN: 978-1250024701 NOTE: I received an Advance Reading Copy from Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.

Book Review: 'The Clockwork Scarab' by Colleen Gleason

✰✰✰ In this first installment of a new series, young, wealthy women are being mysteriously killed in a steampunk version of London in 1889. Each victim happened to have an unusual Egyptian styled clockwork scarab in her possession. In order to uncover the murderer, Miss Irene Adler, under the request of Princess Alexandra, calls upon the unique talents of two young women. One just happens to be the niece of Sherlock Holmes, and the other is the much younger sister of Bram Stoker. However, these aren’t your ordinary teenaged girls. Miss Mina Holmes is logical and composed, while Miss Evaline Stoker is a fast-acting vampire hunter. While each is gifted in her own way, each struggles with a secret as well. Mina doubts herself, and Evaline gets queasy at the sight of blood.

Out of necessity the two young women form an uneasy alliance to try to solve the mystery before more of London’s finest young ladies are murdered. Add a pickpocket, a police inspector, and a time traveler into the mix, and things start to get interesting. Together Mina and Evaline discover a dark side of London filled with interesting characters, danger, and even a little romance.

The Bottom Line: This story is told from the differing viewpoints of Mina and Evaline with more emphasis given to Mina. While the two characters are unique, their viewpoints can be confused at times as the two often sound quite similar. The two young women fall into obvious stereotypes. As their relationship evolves they begin to discover that their strengths and weaknesses complement each other. Unfortunately, both are easily wooed and distracted by potential romantic involvements.

I was originally drawn to this book because of the combined elements of mystery, historical fiction, steampunk, and time travel with a twist of paranormal. Additionally, there is an interesting focus on the Egyptian obsession of the Victorian Era. Also, the detailed descriptions of the clothing and outfits will appeal to young women. Thus, the intended audience, girls in grades 8 - 10, may find this novel amusing. Nevertheless, while a few questions were answered, too many loose ends were left hanging. Without spoiling the ending, I was left somewhat annoyed by the lack of resolution. The unsatisfying conclusion was obviously meant to string the reader along to the next installment. While I’m not sure that I’ll pick up the next one set to publish in 2014, I hope it does have a more complete ending.

Note: There is a discussion guide available for book groups or classes.

Details: The Clockwork Scarab: A Stoker & Holmes Novel by Colleen Gleason.  Paperback ARC published by Chronicle Books in 2013. 356 p. ISBN: 978-1-4521-1070-7 Note: I received a review copy from Chronicle Books in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible by the Early Reviewer program at LibraryThing.