A Fiancée’s Guide to First Wives and Murder

A Fiancée’s Guide to First Wives and Murder (2021) Dianne Freeman (A Countess of Harleigh Mystery)

Set in England in 1899

Frances is looking quite forward to marrying George Hazleton. She successfully launched her sister, and things were looking up–until a young Frenchwoman is brought to Frances’ house, claiming to be George’s wife.

She’s also asked to help launch ALicia Stoke-Whitney’s daughter, as Alicia herself is being sent to the country, after news of her latest affair got out (her husband didn’t care she had an affair, only that she wasn’t discreet).

His wife didn’t have to be above reproach, but she must give the appearance of it. He was a stickler for appearances.

But the scandal of George already being married might not let that happen either.

“That’s no more than I’d expect to hear from you, ma’am, but do you have any evidence?”

I blinked. “Do you have any evidence to the contrary?”

“No, but rumors don’t work that way.”

These are fun mysteries.

“Both of you are taking this far too personally,” he said.

Hetty and I first turned to one another, then back to George before attacking him in unison.

“How do you suggest we take it?” I asked.

“It feels quite personal to me,” Hetty agreed.

One of the things I particularly like is that Frances doesn’t take risks or do stupid things. She is perfectly amenable to staying someplace safe while others go after the criminals.

Unfortunately for her, criminals don’t seem care about her wariness.

I enjoyed this and look forward to the next book in the series.

Publisher: Kensington Books
Rating: 8/10

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