Based on the actual Ratcliff Highway Murders, Harris presents another possibility to the gruesome murders that took place in 1811, and as usual, the blend of fact and fiction is practically seamless as Harris' research is impeccable.
I look forward to each new Sebastian St. Cyr book. The author's knowledge and examination of the political and social norms of the time, combined with her intriguing characters, result in great mysteries and an image of the Regency period that feels genuine.
My favorite character is Hero, partly because of personality and partly because she always gives insight into the culture of the poor. A quiet character, Hero is also a determined woman who writes social articles about the lower levels of society, the impoverished, ill-treated, and forgotten men, women, and children of the period. Sebastian pursues justice in his way, and Hero seeks justice in her own dedicated way. Sebastian carries most of the novel, but Hero's involvement provides the support needed.
Read in Feb.; blog review scheduled for March 29.
NetGalley/Berkeley
Historical Mysteries. April 6, 2021. Print length: 336 pages.
It's always interesting to read mysteries which is based on actual cases and see where the stories will go. This series seems intriguing with the characterisations and the setting, too.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Melody. I've enjoyed the series for a long time, and I usually learn a little something, too.
DeleteI've intended to read this series for awhile now. I think I would love it, because I like mysteries that provide insight into a historical period, and I'm always interested to see how people coped with poverty. I also like books with strong characters and a well-developed sense of place.
ReplyDeleteJess Montgomery has put together everything I like in a book: great characters, setting, history, and mystery! You'd like The Kinship series, T!
DeleteIt's always a great feeling when a new book in a beloved series is released. I've been curious about this series for awhile and I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it. :)
ReplyDeleteRegency England is an intriguing time that provides good mystery material. I like the way the author handled this true crime plot. :)
DeleteI'm so looking forward to reading this one! This series is one of my favorites. And you're right, Hero is a great character! :)
ReplyDelete:) Yes, this one is an interesting look at The Ratcliff Highway Murders with Sebastian trying to determine if the new murders are copycat or a return of the original killer.
DeleteJust when I start to catch up a little on my most pressing TBRs, you come along and tempt me with a historical crime series that sounds great. Sounds like I have some catching up to do.
ReplyDeleteSam, you can never catch up on TBRs; that's a given. I hold you responsible for a number on my own list!
DeleteThis sounds like a great series and right up my street. I put the first novel, What Angels Fear, on my "to buy" list!
ReplyDeleteThis is one of those fortunate series that has gotten better. I gave the first book 3 stars, but most of the others have been 4 stars for me. :)
DeleteHero intrigues me -- this series sound fnatastic.
ReplyDeleteIt is a great historical series of Regency mysteries. I almost always learn something as well as being entertained.
DeleteThere's something about mysteries based on real crimes, isn't there, that makes them even more interesting? I am glad you enjoyed this one.
ReplyDeleteYes, and when the crime had so many questionable situations, it leaves room for creative possibilities. :)
DeleteThis is one of those series in which I've read the first book and didn't follow up. Ridiculous because I really liked the main characters! I just looked and didn't realize she had so many books in the series. I'm so behind now! So glad you recommend this one.
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