A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder

A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder (2018) Dianne Freeman (A Countess of Harleigh Mystery)

Set in England in 1899

Frances Wynn, Countess of Harleigh, is finally done with her mourning and is more than ready to move on with her life.

When her husband died a year ago, he managed to be an even bigger problem in his death than he was in his life, with with him dying in the bed of one of their house guests.

But now, her husband’s family doesn’t want her–and her money– to leave.

“And how clever of you to have your own money.”

I chuckled. “The credit goes to my father. He set up this account although the Wynn family resented it at the time. They were rather offended at the idea of a wife having independent means— not the English way, you know.”

This was a well-done story, managing to avoid most of the issues I have with historical mysteries–namely the main characters being good at everything and the ridiculous action movie ending.

Instead she is (mostly) sensible and reasonable.

“I fear you’re not concerned enough about yourself. You should take the advice you gave your sister and go to the country.”

I shook my head. “You’re mistaken, Inspector. I’m quite aware I’m in the eye of this storm, at least for the moment. I don’t want to jeopardize their safety by going with them.”

I did take occasional umbrage with the language, however.

This is a question for Delaney, so that should be one of our action items.

I’ll be honest, that made me want to punch something.

But for the most part she did an excellent job creating a character who was naive about the right things, and properly worldly about others.

“(Y)ou cannot mean you snuck into another man’s house without his knowledge or permission. Surely it’s a crime to do so.”

“In most cases, I believe it is, which is why it’s imperative one not be caught.”

That was about perfect.

I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Publisher : Kensington Books
Rating: 7.5/10

• Browse the archives:
  
• Not So Cookie Cutter » »
• « « Lady Mechanika Volume 6: Sangre