What do you think?
Rate this book
Rosalind Thorne Mysteries #7
The Secret of the Lady’s Maid
The resourceful and intrepid Rosalind Thorne, a heroine after Jane Austen’s heart, has a scandalous mystery to solve within Regency-era high society, in the latest novel in this nationally bestselling historical series. Ideal for fans of Andrea Penrose, Lauren Willig, and Deanna Raybourn.
Rosalind Thorne’s quick wits and discretion have proved invaluable to London’s haut ton. Success has at last brought her financial stability and a new home, which she shares with her best friend, Alice Littlefield. But now trouble has infiltrated Rosalind’s sanctuary, and the reputations in danger include her own.
Alice has formed a tender attachment to Amelia, the maid in their employ, and her affection is returned. But before meeting Alice, Amelia was involved with Cate Levitton, daughter of a well-respected family. The scandalous liaison caused the Levittons to banish Cate to the house of her widowed cousin. Amelia has no expectation of seeing Cate again—until she stumbles upon her in the marketplace, looking deathly ill.
The women bring Cate to their home with the help of Bow Street officer Adam Harkness, who deduces that Cate’s sickness may in fact be arsenic poisoning. But who had motive, or means? As Rosalind and Adam work side by side, their suspicions grow—as does the bond between them. Rosalind knows that both her blossoming relationship with Adam and her increasing independence would be frowned upon by society. Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie . . .
Rosalind Thorne’s quick wits and discretion have proved invaluable to London’s haut ton. Success has at last brought her financial stability and a new home, which she shares with her best friend, Alice Littlefield. But now trouble has infiltrated Rosalind’s sanctuary, and the reputations in danger include her own.
Alice has formed a tender attachment to Amelia, the maid in their employ, and her affection is returned. But before meeting Alice, Amelia was involved with Cate Levitton, daughter of a well-respected family. The scandalous liaison caused the Levittons to banish Cate to the house of her widowed cousin. Amelia has no expectation of seeing Cate again—until she stumbles upon her in the marketplace, looking deathly ill.
The women bring Cate to their home with the help of Bow Street officer Adam Harkness, who deduces that Cate’s sickness may in fact be arsenic poisoning. But who had motive, or means? As Rosalind and Adam work side by side, their suspicions grow—as does the bond between them. Rosalind knows that both her blossoming relationship with Adam and her increasing independence would be frowned upon by society. Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie . . .
433 pages, Hardcover
First published December 26, 2023
About the author
Darcie Wilde
15 books546 followersDarcie Wilde is a pseudonym for Sarah Zettel, author of mysteries, science fiction, romance and Young Adult fiction, including the New York Times Notable Book Fool’s War and the bestselling Rosalind Thorne mysteries A Useful Woman. She also writes under the names Delia James, Sarah Zettel, Jennifer Hawkins C. L. Anderson and Marissa Day.
Darcie writes her classically styled (not to mention stylish) mysteries as well as adventurous romances from a university town in a certain northern-midwestern state that has been known to bear some passing resemblance to a mitten. When not writing, she’s reading, cooking, hiking, swimming, climbing things, embroidering other things, raising her rapidly growing son and trying to convince her cat — Buffy the Vermin Slayer — not to do any further damage to the furniture.
Darcie writes her classically styled (not to mention stylish) mysteries as well as adventurous romances from a university town in a certain northern-midwestern state that has been known to bear some passing resemblance to a mitten. When not writing, she’s reading, cooking, hiking, swimming, climbing things, embroidering other things, raising her rapidly growing son and trying to convince her cat — Buffy the Vermin Slayer — not to do any further damage to the furniture.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
October 1, 2023
that sound is me hyperventilating because MY BOW STREET RUNNER IS BACK BABY
look there wasn't enough of him but that ending set up EXACTLY what I hoped would happen for this series.
I don't care for Amelia so it was hard to spend so much time on her and her backstory BUT the future is bright and I'm really excited for the possibility of more action rather than political maneuvering for Adam.
The Secret of the Lady's Maid: IN WHICH Rosalind finds a voice, Adam is disheveled (omg), and everyone is trying to ruin everyone else's life.
look there wasn't enough of him but that ending set up EXACTLY what I hoped would happen for this series.
I don't care for Amelia so it was hard to spend so much time on her and her backstory BUT the future is bright and I'm really excited for the possibility of more action rather than political maneuvering for Adam.
The Secret of the Lady's Maid: IN WHICH Rosalind finds a voice, Adam is disheveled (omg), and everyone is trying to ruin everyone else's life.
February 19, 2024
In February of 1820 a group of men meet in secret in rooms on Cato Street. Adam Harkness and the Bow Street Runners watch and wait. Are the men conspiring to commit treason or just disgruntled and venting? Their numbers are few and they don't seem much of a threat. Can Adam convince the King and the Privy Council to leave the men alone? By April 11 men are imprisoned in the Tower of London for treason. Rosalind and Alice are on their way to tea with Adam when they discover their maid, Amelia, calling for help for her friend who has collapsed. Adam fears the young gentlewoman has been poisoned and Rosalind insists on keeping the girl at her home until it's safe. Cate Leavitton has run away from home but won't reveal the truth about herself or what happened to drive her away. She was once close with Amelia and Amelia still has feelings for Cate. What about Alice? Francesca Finch and her man, Jack Beauchamp are looking for Cate for their open purposes. When Rosalind calls on Cate's family to get some information, she discovers Cate's elderly aunt, Marianna, is unwell and suspects the same poison that affected Cate is now killing Marianna. Could it be someone in the house wants both women dead? Rosalind won't allow that to happen. With the help of Nurse Hepplewhite, she is determined to keep Marianna safe. Marianna wants to know where her niece is and who is trying to kill her. She will allow Rosalind to investigate on her behalf. Adam, too, has a potential new client, on behalf of the radicals he must find the informant, Edwards, and discover whether someone paid him to fan the flames on the fatal day on Cato Street. Was it someone from the government? When Adam discovers ties between his investigation and Rosalind's, he's very worried and insists on protecting the ladies. Rosalind is unsure of where their future leads but knows she loves and trusts Adam with all her heart. Can she give up her independence and freedom for marriage and the consequences of childbirth?
This is one crazy complicated story. It's unnecessarily complicated and more of a search for information than a murder mystery. It took too long for the plots to collide and become one central mystery. There is a murder 2/3 of the way into the story but we know who did it right away. Then there's a second murder almost at the end and I did not guess who did that one. I knew of the Cato Street conspiracy and found Adam's part in it way too much. I also did not enjoy the same sex love triangle - NOT because it's three women but because it's inappropriate for an employer to have a relationship with a servant! MEN did it all the time and it wasn't consensual. Sure this is love and when you're different you take love where you can, but it's also a novel and the author should have thought harder how to make her story more diverse without making it about a power imbalance. Even Rosalind's romance is starting to annoy me. I absolutely understand her concerns and would have the same ones but it ruins the otherwise sweet romance. The writing style seems a lot more modern than the earlier books. I detested the modern anachronistic language used in this novel and please don't describe people by their race. Be creative not lazy. Something more like "A man whose skin was scarcely lighter than the shadows." This series started off strong but has been disappointing for the last two books. This one either concludes the series or sets it off in yet another new direction. Pick one and stick to it.
I like Rosalind for the most part but she really fails in this investigation. She doesn't know what she's dealing with and she's meddling with an extraordinarily dysfunctional family. Rosalind is normally level-headed but here she starts supposing a lot of things based on little to no information. I had an inkling of who the poisoner was just before Rosalind figured it out. Something didn't seem quite right to me. Rosalind should have been more suspicious. I also didn't like how Rosalind was so trusting. Why on earth didn't she check references herself to begin with or do some asking around? Rosalind's obsession with gentility is starting to grate on my nerves. Does she love Adam and want to be with him or not? She should learn some practical life skills and worry less about what the ladies of the ton might think. I'm sure her true friends would stand by her.
I liked Alice much more in this novel, love drama aside. Alice wrings her hands a lot before she finally decides to become proactive but when she becomes proactive, she's really present and takes charge. I liked that scene but it illustrated WHY employees should not be involved with their servants. Alice's romantic drama was a little easier to understand than Rosalind's. Her heart is hurting with the introduction of a woman from Amelia's past. Knowing Amelia has a past hurts Alice. Alice does not have a past and Amelia is her first love. Alice naively believed what they have is special and unique. That may not be the case. Amelia is a sweet girl. She's conflicted because she loved Cate and part of her still does. Part of her wants to run away with Cate and part of her wants to stay with Alice. Again, why servants and employers should not be in relationships. The upper class characters including Alice show a shocking lack of understanding and empathy for the working poor. I understand Amelia and her motivations yet what she did was not the right solution and I was shocked at the conclusion to her problems. It is an unrealistic and too tidy resolution to the qualms of a cross-class romance.
Dear Adam is such a noble man. I understand him and fight along side him. I want a more just, fair world too but he isn't in a position yet to do that. He has to answer to Townsend and others in order to do his job. He doesn't understand why Townsend doesn't see the world in black and white the way Adam does. To Adam there's right and there's wrong. Townsend answers to the King and sure Townsend is annoying, a toady, a social climber and doesn't understand Adam, he's actually a good boss. He tries to help Adam subtly without coming out and saying "We represent the King. We do what he and the government tell us. That doesn't mean we have to personally agree with it but we have to follow orders." Actually he should have come right out and said that and "We're not paying you to think in this case." Adam is smart, hard working, kind and empathetic but he has a lot to learn about dealing with the ruling class and an elderly, ill King who everyone knows is temperamental. Yes the King switched sides and was previously more liberal but if you're a government servant you have to toe the line. So, Adam has a moral dilemma. Can he afford to live and still live with himself if he stays with Bow Street? If the answer is no, what will he do and what will that mean for his future with Rosalind? By all means, put off leaving until brothers are grown and Rosalind is past child bearing years. That will solve all their problems.
Sebastian Foulks gets in on the investigations this time. He's charming and witty. He's sweetly protective of Rosalind, as someone should be, considering she doesn't have a brother and her father is now dead. Charlotte could probably assess Adam quickly and grill him but it's nice to know Rosalind has a platonic/brotherly male protector. Sebastian's character growth is good. He's gone from satirical and cynical to having more family feeling. I think he understands and sympathizes with his younger brother who may be queer like Sebastian or may just be different in another way. Their father sounds like a nightmare.
The Leavittons are also a nightmare of a family. Cate is a sneaky liar who is not very forthcoming about anything. How can Rosalind help her when she doesn't trust Rosalind? Amelia trusts Rosalind and that should be good enough for Cate. I don't believe Cate loves Amelia. Cate loves the power she has over Amelia and the illicit nature of their relationship. She can thumb her nose at her brother and avoid marriage. What she does to Amelia, inviting danger into the household, lying, omitting information and planning to run away is not kind. I don't like Cate very much. I understand and empathize with her desire to escape and be free of expectations but the way she goes about it is not right. Cate is somehow mixed up with this Fran Finch who is not on the up and up. I suspect it may have been Fran who poisoned Cate in the first place. That's only one line of inquiry though.
Cate's aunt, Marianna, is awesome. She was a bad girl in her day. She drank, drove, and ran with the men. She's also highly intelligent, an amazing business woman and I admire her very much. What I don't like about her is her caustic nature and her inability to forgive anyone who goes against her wishes. She's fair enough to Rosalind and her crankiness isn't anything Rosalind can't handle. She seems to like Nurse Hepplewhite well enough. Nurse Hepplewhite is sensible and practical and trusts Rosalind so maybe that's good enough for Marianna. Marianna took Cate under her wing and made the young woman strong but not strong enough to overcome her pampered upbringing.
The family patriarch, Marcus, was raised by an abusive father who's word was law. It's no wonder he's the same. To Marcus, reputation is everything and he guards his more carefully than Rosalind. He doesn't trust Rosalind and doesn't want the family's dirty secrets to get out. He also fears she'll lead his wife astray. Marcus is also jealous and mistrustful of everyone. He's horrible to his mother and his wife, resents his uncle's second wife for inheriting a fortune and not handing it over to him and even resents his aunt's heir. Beatrice, the family matriarch wore out after birthing 7 children. Yeesh. It's no wonder she's timid and was never up to running the household. I bet her horrid husband kept her pregnant all the time as a means of control and yet had the nerve to bully her when she wasn't strong enough to take charge of running the household. She's still weak, timid, weepy and she's also obsessed with her daughter. I don't blame her for doting on Cate when Cate was younger but Cate is an adult woman now and needs to live her own life.
Marcus's wife, Wilhelmina, is not timid like her mother-in-law. She's astute enough to know what to say around her husband and what not to say. She wants to talk to Rosalind and is the only one who may be forthcoming with information but if Marcus says no then she accepts that. This marriage is clearly an unhappy one and emotionally abusive. Wilhelmina seems to be holding her own right now but I don't think they've been married long. It's a very sad situation. Marcus's brother, Everett, comes across as the affable peacemaker but I think he's a mischief maker. He doesn't have a profession and doesn't seem to be in any hurry to get one. Is he waiting for Marianna to die? They already know what's in her will and none of them are getting anything more from her so that doesn't seem logical. Everett interferes a lot in a well-meaning way but there's something not trustworthy about him or any of them really. Mr. Harold Davenport is Marianna's protégée, her heir and right-hand man. He's supposedly engaged to Cate but he doesn't seem overly anxious to find her or worried she might be in danger. He claims he's not like other men and appreciates Cate's independent, spirited nature. Riiighhtt... I want to believe him but only Adam is that pure of heart!
This Jack Beauchamp person is bad news. He claims to be a thief taker and associated with Bow Street but he's just a thief himself. He's an opportunist and often sides with the thieves. He lives by his wits and is a thorn in Adam's side. I think Jack is a little bit more street smart than Adam and is a charming rogue type that people like him. Jack is devious and dangerous though. He's playing both sides here and that can not turn out well for anyone. His lady friend? Fran, is not as clever or shrewd. She's an impoverished woman angry at the way the world treats people like her and not above doing something illegal to improve her situation. She's a nasty piece of work but relies a lot on Jack to support her when he isn't really able to rise to the occasion.
Adam's mother is great. She knows her son better than he knows himself and she's more aware of the political side of Bow Street than he is. Her pep talk is cute and shows their relationship is a good one. His friends Goutier and Tauton are good guys who will help him out if they can. Goutier is funny and charming and Tauton seems like he's lazy but he's actually observant, intelligent and quick. Sir David, the coroner is another friend for Adam to turn to if he decides to stop torturing himself. Sir David respects Rosalind and her investigations and accepts her help on occasion. But Adam insists on not confiding in anyone and trying to be noble and do his job at the same time. I hope the solution works out.
This is one crazy complicated story. It's unnecessarily complicated and more of a search for information than a murder mystery. It took too long for the plots to collide and become one central mystery. There is a murder 2/3 of the way into the story but we know who did it right away. Then there's a second murder almost at the end and I did not guess who did that one. I knew of the Cato Street conspiracy and found Adam's part in it way too much. I also did not enjoy the same sex love triangle - NOT because it's three women but because it's inappropriate for an employer to have a relationship with a servant! MEN did it all the time and it wasn't consensual. Sure this is love and when you're different you take love where you can, but it's also a novel and the author should have thought harder how to make her story more diverse without making it about a power imbalance. Even Rosalind's romance is starting to annoy me. I absolutely understand her concerns and would have the same ones but it ruins the otherwise sweet romance. The writing style seems a lot more modern than the earlier books. I detested the modern anachronistic language used in this novel and please don't describe people by their race. Be creative not lazy. Something more like "A man whose skin was scarcely lighter than the shadows." This series started off strong but has been disappointing for the last two books. This one either concludes the series or sets it off in yet another new direction. Pick one and stick to it.
I like Rosalind for the most part but she really fails in this investigation. She doesn't know what she's dealing with and she's meddling with an extraordinarily dysfunctional family. Rosalind is normally level-headed but here she starts supposing a lot of things based on little to no information. I had an inkling of who the poisoner was just before Rosalind figured it out. Something didn't seem quite right to me. Rosalind should have been more suspicious. I also didn't like how Rosalind was so trusting. Why on earth didn't she check references herself to begin with or do some asking around? Rosalind's obsession with gentility is starting to grate on my nerves. Does she love Adam and want to be with him or not? She should learn some practical life skills and worry less about what the ladies of the ton might think. I'm sure her true friends would stand by her.
I liked Alice much more in this novel, love drama aside. Alice wrings her hands a lot before she finally decides to become proactive but when she becomes proactive, she's really present and takes charge. I liked that scene but it illustrated WHY employees should not be involved with their servants. Alice's romantic drama was a little easier to understand than Rosalind's. Her heart is hurting with the introduction of a woman from Amelia's past. Knowing Amelia has a past hurts Alice. Alice does not have a past and Amelia is her first love. Alice naively believed what they have is special and unique. That may not be the case. Amelia is a sweet girl. She's conflicted because she loved Cate and part of her still does. Part of her wants to run away with Cate and part of her wants to stay with Alice. Again, why servants and employers should not be in relationships. The upper class characters including Alice show a shocking lack of understanding and empathy for the working poor. I understand Amelia and her motivations yet what she did was not the right solution and I was shocked at the conclusion to her problems. It is an unrealistic and too tidy resolution to the qualms of a cross-class romance.
Dear Adam is such a noble man. I understand him and fight along side him. I want a more just, fair world too but he isn't in a position yet to do that. He has to answer to Townsend and others in order to do his job. He doesn't understand why Townsend doesn't see the world in black and white the way Adam does. To Adam there's right and there's wrong. Townsend answers to the King and sure Townsend is annoying, a toady, a social climber and doesn't understand Adam, he's actually a good boss. He tries to help Adam subtly without coming out and saying "We represent the King. We do what he and the government tell us. That doesn't mean we have to personally agree with it but we have to follow orders." Actually he should have come right out and said that and "We're not paying you to think in this case." Adam is smart, hard working, kind and empathetic but he has a lot to learn about dealing with the ruling class and an elderly, ill King who everyone knows is temperamental. Yes the King switched sides and was previously more liberal but if you're a government servant you have to toe the line. So, Adam has a moral dilemma. Can he afford to live and still live with himself if he stays with Bow Street? If the answer is no, what will he do and what will that mean for his future with Rosalind? By all means, put off leaving until brothers are grown and Rosalind is past child bearing years. That will solve all their problems.
Sebastian Foulks gets in on the investigations this time. He's charming and witty. He's sweetly protective of Rosalind, as someone should be, considering she doesn't have a brother and her father is now dead. Charlotte could probably assess Adam quickly and grill him but it's nice to know Rosalind has a platonic/brotherly male protector. Sebastian's character growth is good. He's gone from satirical and cynical to having more family feeling. I think he understands and sympathizes with his younger brother who may be queer like Sebastian or may just be different in another way. Their father sounds like a nightmare.
The Leavittons are also a nightmare of a family. Cate is a sneaky liar who is not very forthcoming about anything. How can Rosalind help her when she doesn't trust Rosalind? Amelia trusts Rosalind and that should be good enough for Cate. I don't believe Cate loves Amelia. Cate loves the power she has over Amelia and the illicit nature of their relationship. She can thumb her nose at her brother and avoid marriage. What she does to Amelia, inviting danger into the household, lying, omitting information and planning to run away is not kind. I don't like Cate very much. I understand and empathize with her desire to escape and be free of expectations but the way she goes about it is not right. Cate is somehow mixed up with this Fran Finch who is not on the up and up. I suspect it may have been Fran who poisoned Cate in the first place. That's only one line of inquiry though.
Cate's aunt, Marianna, is awesome. She was a bad girl in her day. She drank, drove, and ran with the men. She's also highly intelligent, an amazing business woman and I admire her very much. What I don't like about her is her caustic nature and her inability to forgive anyone who goes against her wishes. She's fair enough to Rosalind and her crankiness isn't anything Rosalind can't handle. She seems to like Nurse Hepplewhite well enough. Nurse Hepplewhite is sensible and practical and trusts Rosalind so maybe that's good enough for Marianna. Marianna took Cate under her wing and made the young woman strong but not strong enough to overcome her pampered upbringing.
The family patriarch, Marcus, was raised by an abusive father who's word was law. It's no wonder he's the same. To Marcus, reputation is everything and he guards his more carefully than Rosalind. He doesn't trust Rosalind and doesn't want the family's dirty secrets to get out. He also fears she'll lead his wife astray. Marcus is also jealous and mistrustful of everyone. He's horrible to his mother and his wife, resents his uncle's second wife for inheriting a fortune and not handing it over to him and even resents his aunt's heir. Beatrice, the family matriarch wore out after birthing 7 children. Yeesh. It's no wonder she's timid and was never up to running the household. I bet her horrid husband kept her pregnant all the time as a means of control and yet had the nerve to bully her when she wasn't strong enough to take charge of running the household. She's still weak, timid, weepy and she's also obsessed with her daughter. I don't blame her for doting on Cate when Cate was younger but Cate is an adult woman now and needs to live her own life.
Marcus's wife, Wilhelmina, is not timid like her mother-in-law. She's astute enough to know what to say around her husband and what not to say. She wants to talk to Rosalind and is the only one who may be forthcoming with information but if Marcus says no then she accepts that. This marriage is clearly an unhappy one and emotionally abusive. Wilhelmina seems to be holding her own right now but I don't think they've been married long. It's a very sad situation. Marcus's brother, Everett, comes across as the affable peacemaker but I think he's a mischief maker. He doesn't have a profession and doesn't seem to be in any hurry to get one. Is he waiting for Marianna to die? They already know what's in her will and none of them are getting anything more from her so that doesn't seem logical. Everett interferes a lot in a well-meaning way but there's something not trustworthy about him or any of them really. Mr. Harold Davenport is Marianna's protégée, her heir and right-hand man. He's supposedly engaged to Cate but he doesn't seem overly anxious to find her or worried she might be in danger. He claims he's not like other men and appreciates Cate's independent, spirited nature. Riiighhtt... I want to believe him but only Adam is that pure of heart!
This Jack Beauchamp person is bad news. He claims to be a thief taker and associated with Bow Street but he's just a thief himself. He's an opportunist and often sides with the thieves. He lives by his wits and is a thorn in Adam's side. I think Jack is a little bit more street smart than Adam and is a charming rogue type that people like him. Jack is devious and dangerous though. He's playing both sides here and that can not turn out well for anyone. His lady friend? Fran, is not as clever or shrewd. She's an impoverished woman angry at the way the world treats people like her and not above doing something illegal to improve her situation. She's a nasty piece of work but relies a lot on Jack to support her when he isn't really able to rise to the occasion.
Adam's mother is great. She knows her son better than he knows himself and she's more aware of the political side of Bow Street than he is. Her pep talk is cute and shows their relationship is a good one. His friends Goutier and Tauton are good guys who will help him out if they can. Goutier is funny and charming and Tauton seems like he's lazy but he's actually observant, intelligent and quick. Sir David, the coroner is another friend for Adam to turn to if he decides to stop torturing himself. Sir David respects Rosalind and her investigations and accepts her help on occasion. But Adam insists on not confiding in anyone and trying to be noble and do his job at the same time. I hope the solution works out.
December 28, 2023
I love the Rosalind Thorne series, and this book delivered exactly what I wanted: a good mystery with fun side characters (and longing hand touches in the background). In fact, this book delivered so much that I feel like Darcie Wilde is writing these specifically for me. I loved it and I can't believe it's already over. Send help!!!
I think anyone who enjoys historical mysteries will like this series, though. Where it really shines is the world. The characters are believable and interesting, but they act and think (mostly) within the conventions of their times, and I learn something new about regency society with every new book. I also really like how the author handles multiple POVs. She introduces two fully new characters who get their own chapters, and it really helps flesh out the story. I also like the balance of POVs - it's usually Rosalind, but you get the occasional Adam, Alice, or Amelia to round it out.
With this mystery, Rosalind investigates a family whose daughter has gone missing. The family just happens to be Amelia's previous employer, and Adam is on the trail of a rogue thief-taker who is somehow involved with the missing daughter. All of this intersects neatly, but what I really liked about this was seeing how Adam and Rosalind work together. I also liked Marianna Levitton and the ultimate outcome of the mystery, !
The relationship developments in this book make me so excited for the next one, especially the idea that . I'm still reeling from how much happened in this book. I do think the timeline is interesting, . What is actually quite RUDE is the epilogue ending, which gives you both everything and nothing at the same time.
Anyway, I love these books and I can't believe I have to wait another year for the next one. Here's my review of the first book in the series.
I think anyone who enjoys historical mysteries will like this series, though. Where it really shines is the world. The characters are believable and interesting, but they act and think (mostly) within the conventions of their times, and I learn something new about regency society with every new book. I also really like how the author handles multiple POVs. She introduces two fully new characters who get their own chapters, and it really helps flesh out the story. I also like the balance of POVs - it's usually Rosalind, but you get the occasional Adam, Alice, or Amelia to round it out.
With this mystery, Rosalind investigates a family whose daughter has gone missing. The family just happens to be Amelia's previous employer, and Adam is on the trail of a rogue thief-taker who is somehow involved with the missing daughter. All of this intersects neatly, but what I really liked about this was seeing how Adam and Rosalind work together. I also liked Marianna Levitton and the ultimate outcome of the mystery, !
The relationship developments in this book make me so excited for the next one, especially the idea that . I'm still reeling from how much happened in this book. I do think the timeline is interesting, . What is actually quite RUDE is the epilogue ending, which gives you both everything and nothing at the same time.
Anyway, I love these books and I can't believe I have to wait another year for the next one. Here's my review of the first book in the series.
December 10, 2023
Well this was an exciting read!
Adam Harkness, of Bow Street, is watching a group of men meeting at Cato Street, London who are purported to be hatching a plot to murder the Privy Council when the members dine together.
Rosalind Thorne is out with her friend Alice and maid Amelia when they rescue a young woman who’s fainted in the midst of the market, although another woman was very insistent on helping too. Amelia recognizes the young woman.
Adam turns up and helps Rosalind take the young woman safely home.
(Rosalind helps women of the ton who find themselves in all sorts of difficulties.
A conundrum!)
Rosalind finds herself with a possibly poisoned patient on her hands. Adam has a case that’s leaning towards high treason.
Somehow both events are linked.
The denouement is both shocking and dangerous.
One of the upshots is that Rosalind and Adam find themselves looking into a new future.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Adam Harkness, of Bow Street, is watching a group of men meeting at Cato Street, London who are purported to be hatching a plot to murder the Privy Council when the members dine together.
Rosalind Thorne is out with her friend Alice and maid Amelia when they rescue a young woman who’s fainted in the midst of the market, although another woman was very insistent on helping too. Amelia recognizes the young woman.
Adam turns up and helps Rosalind take the young woman safely home.
(Rosalind helps women of the ton who find themselves in all sorts of difficulties.
A conundrum!)
Rosalind finds herself with a possibly poisoned patient on her hands. Adam has a case that’s leaning towards high treason.
Somehow both events are linked.
The denouement is both shocking and dangerous.
One of the upshots is that Rosalind and Adam find themselves looking into a new future.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
February 16, 2024
We get a nice blend of domestic mystery (Rosalind's case) and political unrest (Adam's case).
Rosalind's maid Amelia gets involved with a woman from her past, much to the detriment of the household's domestic tranquility. Rosalind is concerned because Cate Levitton has so much mystery attached to her. Why would someone want to poison her? Why did she contact Amelia? Why is she lying to Rosalind and Alice? And just what else is she involved in?
Adam Harkness and his fellow Bow Street Runners are tasked with investigating a group of radicals who have supposedly threatened to kill the members of the Privy Council. The Cato Street Conspiracy, as it came to be known, came to cause a good deal of stress on many levels during the early months of King George IV's reign.
Rosalind's concerns about Cate's poisoning lead her to contact Cate's family, where she discovers that the matriarch, Marianna's, ill health is also being caused by poison. Who could want both women dead? and why? Rosalind's case also starts to rub up against Adam's, when she learns that Marianna is a well-known supporter of radical causes--the possible financial source for a reward that is being dangled in front of Adam and others by the Cato Group's defense team.
Both cases get very twisty before all is resolved. A big 'thank you' to the author for the epilogue which lets us know what happens to almost everyone.
I really enjoyed both plotlines, especially Adam's trials and tribulations with his superiors at Bow Street. Fans interested in the romance brewing between Adam and Rosalind will appreciate the progress made along that line.
The ending signaled more changes for Rosalind and Adam. I am eager to see where the author takes them.
Rosalind's maid Amelia gets involved with a woman from her past, much to the detriment of the household's domestic tranquility. Rosalind is concerned because Cate Levitton has so much mystery attached to her. Why would someone want to poison her? Why did she contact Amelia? Why is she lying to Rosalind and Alice? And just what else is she involved in?
Adam Harkness and his fellow Bow Street Runners are tasked with investigating a group of radicals who have supposedly threatened to kill the members of the Privy Council. The Cato Street Conspiracy, as it came to be known, came to cause a good deal of stress on many levels during the early months of King George IV's reign.
Rosalind's concerns about Cate's poisoning lead her to contact Cate's family, where she discovers that the matriarch, Marianna's, ill health is also being caused by poison. Who could want both women dead? and why? Rosalind's case also starts to rub up against Adam's, when she learns that Marianna is a well-known supporter of radical causes--the possible financial source for a reward that is being dangled in front of Adam and others by the Cato Group's defense team.
Both cases get very twisty before all is resolved. A big 'thank you' to the author for the epilogue which lets us know what happens to almost everyone.
I really enjoyed both plotlines, especially Adam's trials and tribulations with his superiors at Bow Street. Fans interested in the romance brewing between Adam and Rosalind will appreciate the progress made along that line.
The ending signaled more changes for Rosalind and Adam. I am eager to see where the author takes them.
April 3, 2024
I’ve read all of the books in this series and found each to be well written. I am disappointed that the Duke was displaced so soon in the early books but as I see now he just did not fit the notion of a husband to a useful woman as the plots developed.
This book really set the stage for an emerging independent woman capable of solving problems, crimes, and anything else the author conjures up for the reader.
This book really set the stage for an emerging independent woman capable of solving problems, crimes, and anything else the author conjures up for the reader.
December 25, 2023
I still can't believe that the turning point has finally arrived for Rosalynd and Adam, and as usual the author leaves things very vague, but never more so than in this case, the story behind the novel, however well organized, was but a side dish to what for me was THE MAIN STORY.
Non riesco ancora a credere che finalmente sia arrivato il momento della svolta per Rosalynd ed Adam, e come al solito l'autrice lascia le cose molto vaghe, ma mai come in questo caso, la storia alla base del romanzo, per quanto ben organizzata, non era che un contorno per quella che per me era LA STORIA principale.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
Non riesco ancora a credere che finalmente sia arrivato il momento della svolta per Rosalynd ed Adam, e come al solito l'autrice lascia le cose molto vaghe, ma mai come in questo caso, la storia alla base del romanzo, per quanto ben organizzata, non era che un contorno per quella che per me era LA STORIA principale.
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
February 1, 2024
Continuing her excellent work, and making new strides into the future for her heroine, and for us!
November 3, 2024
A very satisfying entry in this historical mystery series, there are two twisty mysteries, an engaging cast of characters and viewpoints from a few of the, real character arcs over the course of the series, and a well-drawn historical setting. This one occurs in early 1820 and one of the mystery lines involves political unrest of the time.
November 19, 2023
Rosalind Thorne is a great characters and Darcie Wilde delivers another well plotted and intriguing historical mystery.
Well researched, compelling, a solid mystery that kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Well researched, compelling, a solid mystery that kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
April 11, 2024
All women are very capable of becoming successful.
Enjoyed every chapter. The suspense of who is the criminal and how they did the crime was very interesting. Waiting for the burden of truth was a great mystery. Read the book in 3 days. That's how it captivated me. Hope there will be other books coming out on A Useful Woman very soon.
Enjoyed every chapter. The suspense of who is the criminal and how they did the crime was very interesting. Waiting for the burden of truth was a great mystery. Read the book in 3 days. That's how it captivated me. Hope there will be other books coming out on A Useful Woman very soon.
December 29, 2023
I’m back down to 2-3 stars, alas.
I’m disappointed mainly by the mystery this time round. In an effort to add more complexity to what is basically another dysfunctional-family-poison-plot with very few suspects, the author tries to add in some political intrigue around the historical Cato Street Conspiracy. The effort to link these two threads on a political level is more than far-fetched and rests - once more - on a modern misinterpretation of the meaning of ‘radical’ at the time (taking along all the violent connotations the term has been given in the meantime, thus falling into the trap of ideological framing). In addition, the author is really bad at political intrigue: the actors in it are lamentably blunt and transparent, motivations are under-developed. It only serves to send Harkness on a wild goose chase The link between the two threads turns out to be strictly personal and coincidental.
But neither is the dysfunctional family a satisfactory setting: motivations remain somewhat unclear, all kinds of secrets and scandals have to be brought in to thicken the soup. I never get the feeling of the (dys)functioning of the family as a whole that would explain motives sufficiently.
So what do we have? - Lots of potentially interesting threads to begin with. Political shenanigans around an agent provocateur, family conflicts around secrets and money, a love triangle around lies and jealousy. Tons of material, but it all remains under-explored and under-used.
I’m disappointed mainly by the mystery this time round. In an effort to add more complexity to what is basically another dysfunctional-family-poison-plot with very few suspects, the author tries to add in some political intrigue around the historical Cato Street Conspiracy. The effort to link these two threads on a political level is more than far-fetched and rests - once more - on a modern misinterpretation of the meaning of ‘radical’ at the time (taking along all the violent connotations the term has been given in the meantime, thus falling into the trap of ideological framing). In addition, the author is really bad at political intrigue: the actors in it are lamentably blunt and transparent, motivations are under-developed. It only serves to send Harkness on a wild goose chase The link between the two threads turns out to be strictly personal and coincidental.
But neither is the dysfunctional family a satisfactory setting: motivations remain somewhat unclear, all kinds of secrets and scandals have to be brought in to thicken the soup. I never get the feeling of the (dys)functioning of the family as a whole that would explain motives sufficiently.
So what do we have? - Lots of potentially interesting threads to begin with. Political shenanigans around an agent provocateur, family conflicts around secrets and money, a love triangle around lies and jealousy. Tons of material, but it all remains under-explored and under-used.
December 25, 2023
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Darcie Wilde for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Secret of the Lady's Maid coming out December 26, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rosalind Thorne’s quick wits and discretion have proved invaluable to London’s haut ton. Success has at last brought her financial stability and a new home, which she shares with her best friend, Alice Littlefield. But now trouble has infiltrated Rosalind’s sanctuary, and the reputations in danger include her own.
Alice has formed a tender attachment to Amelia, the maid in their employ, and her affection is returned. But before meeting Alice, Amelia was involved with Cate Levitton, daughter of a well-respected family. The scandalous liaison caused the Levittons to banish Cate to the house of her widowed cousin. Amelia has no expectation of seeing Cate again—until she stumbles upon her in the marketplace, looking deathly ill.
The women bring Cate to their home with the help of Bow Street officer Adam Harkness, who deduces that Cate’s sickness may in fact be arsenic poisoning. But who had motive, or means? As Rosalind and Adam work side by side, their suspicions grow—as does the bond between them. Rosalind knows that both her blossoming relationship with Adam and her increasing independence would be frowned upon by society. Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie . . .
This is the second book I’ve received in this series. I really love regency era mysteries. I think Rosalind is a strong heroine, but she does have some faults that I don’t quite enjoy. At times I don’t quite understand her motives and wishes, especially when it comes to what she wants in life and her relationship with Adam. I hope she grows more as the series progresses. I think the mystery was really complex and I enjoyed it. There were a couple characters who weren’t as dimensional as I thought they would be. But I definitely love this author’s writing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys regency era mysteries!
Rosalind Thorne’s quick wits and discretion have proved invaluable to London’s haut ton. Success has at last brought her financial stability and a new home, which she shares with her best friend, Alice Littlefield. But now trouble has infiltrated Rosalind’s sanctuary, and the reputations in danger include her own.
Alice has formed a tender attachment to Amelia, the maid in their employ, and her affection is returned. But before meeting Alice, Amelia was involved with Cate Levitton, daughter of a well-respected family. The scandalous liaison caused the Levittons to banish Cate to the house of her widowed cousin. Amelia has no expectation of seeing Cate again—until she stumbles upon her in the marketplace, looking deathly ill.
The women bring Cate to their home with the help of Bow Street officer Adam Harkness, who deduces that Cate’s sickness may in fact be arsenic poisoning. But who had motive, or means? As Rosalind and Adam work side by side, their suspicions grow—as does the bond between them. Rosalind knows that both her blossoming relationship with Adam and her increasing independence would be frowned upon by society. Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie . . .
This is the second book I’ve received in this series. I really love regency era mysteries. I think Rosalind is a strong heroine, but she does have some faults that I don’t quite enjoy. At times I don’t quite understand her motives and wishes, especially when it comes to what she wants in life and her relationship with Adam. I hope she grows more as the series progresses. I think the mystery was really complex and I enjoyed it. There were a couple characters who weren’t as dimensional as I thought they would be. But I definitely love this author’s writing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys regency era mysteries!
December 8, 2023
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Books, for providing me with a complimentary digital copy of this book for review.
This book is imbued with a captivating blend of historical mystery and subtle romance.
At the heart of the tale is Rosalind Thorne, a resourceful female detective dedicated to aiding high-society women who find themselves mired in perplexing predicaments. In this particular installment, her keen intellect and intuition prove instrumental in assisting three women and unraveling a murder mystery. The narrative astutely delves into her professional life and provides an insightful glimpse into her world, enriching her character portrayal.
Jack Harkness, a steadfast Bowstreet Runner, emerges as the embodiment of moral rectitude. His unwavering sense of duty resonates profoundly, rendering him a character that readers will find immensely likable.
The narrative crackles with the palpable tension between Rosalind and Adam, their mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface. However, they grapple with the societal norms and familial obligations that threaten to keep them apart, adding a layer of angst to their burgeoning relationship.
Supporting characters, Alice and Amelia, contribute significantly to the story's progression. Their tumultuous sapphic romance is filled with emotional complexity, yet they play a crucial role in driving the plot forward.
The story not only unravels a gripping mystery but also delves into the complexities of human motives, making solving the mystery an exhilarating experience. The narrative's compelling nature encourages readers to follow Rosalind and Adam's journey closely.
Despite being the seventh installment in the Rosalind Thorne series, the book can be appreciated as a standalone read. As a first-time reader of the series, I can affirm that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.
This book is imbued with a captivating blend of historical mystery and subtle romance.
At the heart of the tale is Rosalind Thorne, a resourceful female detective dedicated to aiding high-society women who find themselves mired in perplexing predicaments. In this particular installment, her keen intellect and intuition prove instrumental in assisting three women and unraveling a murder mystery. The narrative astutely delves into her professional life and provides an insightful glimpse into her world, enriching her character portrayal.
Jack Harkness, a steadfast Bowstreet Runner, emerges as the embodiment of moral rectitude. His unwavering sense of duty resonates profoundly, rendering him a character that readers will find immensely likable.
The narrative crackles with the palpable tension between Rosalind and Adam, their mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface. However, they grapple with the societal norms and familial obligations that threaten to keep them apart, adding a layer of angst to their burgeoning relationship.
Supporting characters, Alice and Amelia, contribute significantly to the story's progression. Their tumultuous sapphic romance is filled with emotional complexity, yet they play a crucial role in driving the plot forward.
The story not only unravels a gripping mystery but also delves into the complexities of human motives, making solving the mystery an exhilarating experience. The narrative's compelling nature encourages readers to follow Rosalind and Adam's journey closely.
Despite being the seventh installment in the Rosalind Thorne series, the book can be appreciated as a standalone read. As a first-time reader of the series, I can affirm that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.
December 8, 2023
Thank you, NetGalley and Kensington Books, for providing me with a complimentary digital copy of this book for review.
This book is imbued with a captivating blend of historical mystery and subtle romance.
At the heart of the tale is Rosalind Thorne, a resourceful female detective dedicated to aiding high-society women who find themselves mired in perplexing predicaments. In this particular installment, her keen intellect and intuition prove instrumental in assisting three women and unraveling a murder mystery. The narrative astutely delves into her professional life and provides an insightful glimpse into her world, enriching her character portrayal.
Jack Harkness, a steadfast Bowstreet Runner, emerges as the embodiment of moral rectitude. His unwavering sense of duty resonates profoundly, rendering him a character that readers will find immensely likable.
The narrative crackles with the palpable tension between Rosalind and Adam, their mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface. However, they grapple with the societal norms and familial obligations that threaten to keep them apart, adding a layer of angst to their burgeoning relationship.
Supporting characters, Alice and Amelia, contribute significantly to the story's progression. Their tumultuous sapphic romance is filled with emotional complexity, yet they play a crucial role in driving the plot forward.
The story not only unravels a gripping mystery but also delves into the complexities of human motives, making solving the mystery an exhilarating experience. The narrative's compelling nature encourages readers to follow Rosalind and Adam's journey closely.
Despite being the seventh installment in the Rosalind Thorne series, the book can be appreciated as a standalone read. As a first-time reader of the series, I can affirm that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.
This book is imbued with a captivating blend of historical mystery and subtle romance.
At the heart of the tale is Rosalind Thorne, a resourceful female detective dedicated to aiding high-society women who find themselves mired in perplexing predicaments. In this particular installment, her keen intellect and intuition prove instrumental in assisting three women and unraveling a murder mystery. The narrative astutely delves into her professional life and provides an insightful glimpse into her world, enriching her character portrayal.
Jack Harkness, a steadfast Bowstreet Runner, emerges as the embodiment of moral rectitude. His unwavering sense of duty resonates profoundly, rendering him a character that readers will find immensely likable.
The narrative crackles with the palpable tension between Rosalind and Adam, their mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface. However, they grapple with the societal norms and familial obligations that threaten to keep them apart, adding a layer of angst to their burgeoning relationship.
Supporting characters, Alice and Amelia, contribute significantly to the story's progression. Their tumultuous sapphic romance is filled with emotional complexity, yet they play a crucial role in driving the plot forward.
The story not only unravels a gripping mystery but also delves into the complexities of human motives, making solving the mystery an exhilarating experience. The narrative's compelling nature encourages readers to follow Rosalind and Adam's journey closely.
Despite being the seventh installment in the Rosalind Thorne series, the book can be appreciated as a standalone read. As a first-time reader of the series, I can affirm that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.
December 13, 2023
The Secret of the Lady's Maid is the seventh in the Rosalind Thorne Historical Fiction Mystery series. Regency London is a fascinating time in history to read about, especially class differences. shifts in crime and policing and the roles and occupations of women in the ton and slums.
Rosalind is now financially secure as a "useful woman" to the upper crust, solving dilemmas for them. She and her dearest friend Alice live in a house together and make an excellent team. But they see a very sick woman in the street which leads to a possible poisoning crime. With the help of Rosalind's gentleman friend Bow Street runner Adam. the ladies inveigle and investigate. We see glimpses of romance, London underworld, politics, intrigue, Privy Council issues and Bow Street runners at work. I really like the historical details, as always.
Though I am enamoured with this series, this installment isn't my favourite. However, I am curious to see what is in store next!
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this engaging novel.
Rosalind is now financially secure as a "useful woman" to the upper crust, solving dilemmas for them. She and her dearest friend Alice live in a house together and make an excellent team. But they see a very sick woman in the street which leads to a possible poisoning crime. With the help of Rosalind's gentleman friend Bow Street runner Adam. the ladies inveigle and investigate. We see glimpses of romance, London underworld, politics, intrigue, Privy Council issues and Bow Street runners at work. I really like the historical details, as always.
Though I am enamoured with this series, this installment isn't my favourite. However, I am curious to see what is in store next!
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this engaging novel.
December 27, 2023
Thank you so much to @kensingtonbooks for the galley copy of The Secret of the Lady’s Maid, book seven in the Rosalind Thorne Mysteries by Darcie Wilde @darciewildeauthor. I am so excited that I have discovered a new to me historical mystery series. I adored this five star read, could not put it down and was super annoyed whenever I had to!
“Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie.”
While this is book seven, it worked perfectly as a standalone. However, I know what I’ll be doing the next few weeks–getting caught up. I already have book one downloaded and ready to go. If you are also a lover of historical mysteries and also have not stumbled upon this series, go right now.
Series description: “The Rosalind Thorne mystery series—inspired by the novels of Jane Austen—continues as the audacious Rosalind strives to aid those in need while navigating the halls of high society.”
Rosalind is an outstanding main character–strong, independent, and thoughtful–she reminded me of Maisie Dobbs in her mindful consideration of all aspects of the mystery. There’s a little romance between her and Adam, a Bow Street Runner and also between her friend Alice and Amelia.
I loved following along as Rosalind uncovered secrets and sorted fact from fiction. There are many good liars in this book! I thought I had it all figured out, but clearly Rosalind is better than I am at detecting. So well done. I’m so excited to go back and learn the stories behind the stories.
“Poison, politics, jealousy and jewel thieves combine in Rosalind’s most complex case yet. But to solve this dangerous puzzle, Rosalind must also decide where her heart and her future lie.”
While this is book seven, it worked perfectly as a standalone. However, I know what I’ll be doing the next few weeks–getting caught up. I already have book one downloaded and ready to go. If you are also a lover of historical mysteries and also have not stumbled upon this series, go right now.
Series description: “The Rosalind Thorne mystery series—inspired by the novels of Jane Austen—continues as the audacious Rosalind strives to aid those in need while navigating the halls of high society.”
Rosalind is an outstanding main character–strong, independent, and thoughtful–she reminded me of Maisie Dobbs in her mindful consideration of all aspects of the mystery. There’s a little romance between her and Adam, a Bow Street Runner and also between her friend Alice and Amelia.
I loved following along as Rosalind uncovered secrets and sorted fact from fiction. There are many good liars in this book! I thought I had it all figured out, but clearly Rosalind is better than I am at detecting. So well done. I’m so excited to go back and learn the stories behind the stories.
November 3, 2024
Oh yes, more Rosalind and Adam Harkness! This is a great historical fiction mystery series with enjoyable main characters, interesting supporting characters and plenty of annoying associates and villains.
This story finds Rosalind investigating a complicated family (Leavitton) with a missing daughter. The daughter (Cate) and the family have connections to Rosalind and Alice’s maid, Amelia so the plot deepens quickly. Rosalind has to investigate cautiously as someone in the family has been giving poison to the Aunt and Cate. There are more secrets in this family than seems possible and many motives. Rosalind enlists help from her sister, Adam Harkness, Mr.Faulks, Alice and Amelia to solve this one.
Loved it! Can’t wait to see what’s next in the relationship between Rosalind and Adam.
This story finds Rosalind investigating a complicated family (Leavitton) with a missing daughter. The daughter (Cate) and the family have connections to Rosalind and Alice’s maid, Amelia so the plot deepens quickly. Rosalind has to investigate cautiously as someone in the family has been giving poison to the Aunt and Cate. There are more secrets in this family than seems possible and many motives. Rosalind enlists help from her sister, Adam Harkness, Mr.Faulks, Alice and Amelia to solve this one.
Loved it! Can’t wait to see what’s next in the relationship between Rosalind and Adam.
April 1, 2024
Another good story with an interesting twist at the end.
December 28, 2023
Another beautifully crafted book in the series. Although the murder case took a while to be revealed, there was sufficient mystery that kept me hooked. Watching Rosalind investigate people while still abiding by society's rules was a delight.
The romance between Rosalind and Adam moved forward enough to make me excited for the next book since it seemed impossible for them to have a happy ending for a couple of books. They make such a lovely couple, but Rosalind's higher-class status makes it impossible for them to get married. Glad that there might be a solution on the horizon.
This review is based on an advanced reader copy provided through Netgalley for an honest review.
The romance between Rosalind and Adam moved forward enough to make me excited for the next book since it seemed impossible for them to have a happy ending for a couple of books. They make such a lovely couple, but Rosalind's higher-class status makes it impossible for them to get married. Glad that there might be a solution on the horizon.
This review is based on an advanced reader copy provided through Netgalley for an honest review.
February 25, 2024
Another amazing book in the series
December 20, 2023
This was another fun entry into this Regency-setting mystery series. I enjoy the pairing of Rosalind Thorne, an aristocratic woman whose family has come down in life, and Adam Harkness, a lower-class man who has risen to be a well-respected officer in Bow Street. They have admitted they are in love, but don’t know how to bridge the class divide since Rosalind makes her living helping well-born women solve various problems, which somehow usually end up involving murder.
The murder plot is intriguing with an appropriate set of unlikable characters as the possible villains. Mr. Harkness has to wrestle with his conscience over possible efforts by the government to ram through guilty verdicts against the real-life accused in the Cato Street Conspiracy. I enjoyed the mixing of history, romance, and mystery and heartily recommend all the books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
The murder plot is intriguing with an appropriate set of unlikable characters as the possible villains. Mr. Harkness has to wrestle with his conscience over possible efforts by the government to ram through guilty verdicts against the real-life accused in the Cato Street Conspiracy. I enjoyed the mixing of history, romance, and mystery and heartily recommend all the books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
February 22, 2024
It was a struggle to read, not enjoyable. I couldn't finish this book.
August 21, 2023
Amazing!! This series is a favorite of mine & this installment had me on the edge of my seat on many different levels. I loved the split between multiple POVs, & especially the balance between Rosalind & Adams separate investigations & their unique killings over their relationship. I was excited about Rosalinds’ concerns & motivations towards the relationship & potential future, as they were relatable to me & are almost NEVER applied to heroines in novels, I appreciated this characterization. The author continues to deliver edge of your seat mysteries where the villain is not super obvious, which I love. Most mysteries are pretty formulaic & it tends to be easy to spot the villain but this author dies a better job of keeping one guessing than most. I almost never figure out who her villain is before about the 90% mark. Her character & relationship development is top notch, the slow burn is to die for, and the examination of class, gender, & social commentary is always wonderfully woven throughout both subtly & strongly. A great balance. Can’t wait for the next one.
February 10, 2024
I wish I could return this book. I have loved the others, but I do not buy these books to read about these kind of situations and choices. Couldn’t even finish.
August 18, 2023
This book was exactly what I was looking for! I was craving a historical mystery with some romance and this fit the bill. The characters are a diverse set of people and I loved the diversity. This is the 2nd of two books and while I do wish I had the first book before hand I was never lost in the story or what was going on. This was very well written and I will be reading more from Darcie and recommending this book to my book club and friends. Of note this is a relatively clean romance with no spicy scenes.
January 19, 2024
Not as interesting as the others in the series. Two disjointed plots and tied by the flimsiest of threads.
April 7, 2024
Not my favorite
October 28, 2024
This one was not as good as the rest of the series. The mysteries felt clunky and the poisoner was fairly obvious from the start (ie who gave food to the victim that only the victim would eat/drink?). It was very frustrating that Rosalind never walked through the evening meal with the victim. The culprit would have been discovered much sooner and the focus could move to finding proof (more the standard for this series). It would have saved what felt like a rushed, bow-tied ending. The best I can say for the mysteries in this book is that they are not ultimately solved by Rosalind being attacked, an unfortunate go to in the series and genre overall.
The romance in the books has always verged on being impossible outside of a few very specific choices due to the differences in their class and how class based Rosalind’s work is. Her marrying him would mean the end of her business in 99% of cases. It could only be saved by some incredible marketing, which would frankly stretch belief. This might be where the series eventually goes as Rosalind has already been introducing outright contracts and is also being hired by a consortium of women and has faced no blowback for such outright merchant practices. She is essentially soft-launching into a career where having a bow-street runner as a husband (rip) would be seen as more useful than it is scandalous (like a banker or wealthy merchant). Adam could be very lucky and raise in standing. The other option is they carry on an affair. In previous books, this seemed unlikely given the very pg tone of the series and Adam’s character. Frankly, being a secret lover to a genteel lady he is in love with but cannot marry just doesn’t make sense for him. He introduced her to his mother for goodness sake. The man seems way too straight forward and idealistic to willingly agree to a doomed romance. The fear of discovery, thus ruining Rosalind’s career, would also make it unlikely for her to pursue such a strategy.
The author has surprisingly chosen the secret lover path but without the doomed ending. Apparently, Adam is going to start working for her and be able to carry on a love affair with her with work serving as a cover for their closeness. This solution is uncomfortable in so many ways. It exacerbates the already massive difference in power between the two characters. It also, as I have mentioned, feels very out of character for Adam unless he sees it as a step towards convincing her to marry him. The book suggests that may be the case as Rosalind doesn’t exactly shoot down the idea completely. The series also brings up pregnancy as a consequence of amorous activities almost constantly. It might have been to highlight how Rosalind is going against the grain, but the tone didn’t sell that completely for me. Lastly, work serving as a real cover for their closeness and as an effective way to protect Rosalind’s reputation is hard to believe. The series puts such an emphasis on the power of rumor, yet it wants us to believe that a single woman hiring a handsome young man whom she clearly has feelings for (everyone in the book who has seen them together have noticed the romantic undertones) is not going to generate rumors that the work is a cover for the romance beggars belief. After all, such situations, with footmen usually, isn’t exactly uncommon. And even if no one can prove it, the rumor alone should ruin Rosalind.
Look, the mysteries in this book were frustrating but ultimately boring. The romance, with actual conversations about the role of money in their relationship, is interesting but is unfortunately handled terribly and therefor became mildly infuriating. Hopefully, the next book clears up some of these issues. Otherwise, the suspension of disbelief needed for this series might surpass my generous limits.
The romance in the books has always verged on being impossible outside of a few very specific choices due to the differences in their class and how class based Rosalind’s work is. Her marrying him would mean the end of her business in 99% of cases. It could only be saved by some incredible marketing, which would frankly stretch belief. This might be where the series eventually goes as Rosalind has already been introducing outright contracts and is also being hired by a consortium of women and has faced no blowback for such outright merchant practices. She is essentially soft-launching into a career where having a bow-street runner as a husband (rip) would be seen as more useful than it is scandalous (like a banker or wealthy merchant). Adam could be very lucky and raise in standing. The other option is they carry on an affair. In previous books, this seemed unlikely given the very pg tone of the series and Adam’s character. Frankly, being a secret lover to a genteel lady he is in love with but cannot marry just doesn’t make sense for him. He introduced her to his mother for goodness sake. The man seems way too straight forward and idealistic to willingly agree to a doomed romance. The fear of discovery, thus ruining Rosalind’s career, would also make it unlikely for her to pursue such a strategy.
The author has surprisingly chosen the secret lover path but without the doomed ending. Apparently, Adam is going to start working for her and be able to carry on a love affair with her with work serving as a cover for their closeness. This solution is uncomfortable in so many ways. It exacerbates the already massive difference in power between the two characters. It also, as I have mentioned, feels very out of character for Adam unless he sees it as a step towards convincing her to marry him. The book suggests that may be the case as Rosalind doesn’t exactly shoot down the idea completely. The series also brings up pregnancy as a consequence of amorous activities almost constantly. It might have been to highlight how Rosalind is going against the grain, but the tone didn’t sell that completely for me. Lastly, work serving as a real cover for their closeness and as an effective way to protect Rosalind’s reputation is hard to believe. The series puts such an emphasis on the power of rumor, yet it wants us to believe that a single woman hiring a handsome young man whom she clearly has feelings for (everyone in the book who has seen them together have noticed the romantic undertones) is not going to generate rumors that the work is a cover for the romance beggars belief. After all, such situations, with footmen usually, isn’t exactly uncommon. And even if no one can prove it, the rumor alone should ruin Rosalind.
Look, the mysteries in this book were frustrating but ultimately boring. The romance, with actual conversations about the role of money in their relationship, is interesting but is unfortunately handled terribly and therefor became mildly infuriating. Hopefully, the next book clears up some of these issues. Otherwise, the suspension of disbelief needed for this series might surpass my generous limits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Rosalind Thorne Mysteries #7
Publication Date: 12/26/23
Period: Regency (1820 London)
Number of Pages: 304
Rosalind Thorne’s aristocratic family is certainly a peculiar one. It houses a father (the Baron) who is a forger and is either dead or on the run and a sister who was a highly sought-after courtesan but has recently married. Rosalind was left to make her way in the world and she didn’t have many options. She could follow in her sister’s footsteps or she could find a way to make herself useful – and charge for the service. So, being useful it was! Over the books in the series, Rosalind has gone from helping ton ladies solve ‘problems’ and accepting whatever ‘gifts’ those ladies wanted to bestow to helping the ladies and having a written contract for services and payment. Even though she is now officially charging, she is still received by most of the ton.
This case involves poisoning and murder – and as an extra case to follow, Adam Harkness is on the trail of traitors. So, two different cases and two different investigators. I had thought we’d spend the majority of our reading time with Rosalind – since it is her series �� but it seemed to me that we spent more page time with Adam. Perhaps not, but that is the way it felt to me.
Rosalind worked hard and struggled to identify the culprit in what, to me, seemed to be a simple case to solve. So, again, for me, the more interesting – and disappointing – case was Adams. I say disappointed because people got away with crimes because the Bow Street powers- that be had their own version of the law and justice.
For some reason, neither mystery caught my attention and drew me into the story. I think part of that was the dual storyline and alternating chapters between Adam's story and Rosalind’s story. Perhaps, given the ending of this book, we’ll see both Rosalind and Adam working side-by-side on future cases. I certainly hope that is the case.
Overall, I was disappointed in the book and the characters and would not read it a second time. I want to like Adam and Rosalind and cheer for them as they work together to solve cases, and I hope that will happen starting with the next book. If it doesn’t, then I probably won’t pursue reading any future books in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Rosalind Thorne Mysteries #7
Publication Date: 12/26/23
Period: Regency (1820 London)
Number of Pages: 304
Rosalind Thorne’s aristocratic family is certainly a peculiar one. It houses a father (the Baron) who is a forger and is either dead or on the run and a sister who was a highly sought-after courtesan but has recently married. Rosalind was left to make her way in the world and she didn’t have many options. She could follow in her sister’s footsteps or she could find a way to make herself useful – and charge for the service. So, being useful it was! Over the books in the series, Rosalind has gone from helping ton ladies solve ‘problems’ and accepting whatever ‘gifts’ those ladies wanted to bestow to helping the ladies and having a written contract for services and payment. Even though she is now officially charging, she is still received by most of the ton.
This case involves poisoning and murder – and as an extra case to follow, Adam Harkness is on the trail of traitors. So, two different cases and two different investigators. I had thought we’d spend the majority of our reading time with Rosalind – since it is her series �� but it seemed to me that we spent more page time with Adam. Perhaps not, but that is the way it felt to me.
Rosalind worked hard and struggled to identify the culprit in what, to me, seemed to be a simple case to solve. So, again, for me, the more interesting – and disappointing – case was Adams. I say disappointed because people got away with crimes because the Bow Street powers- that be had their own version of the law and justice.
For some reason, neither mystery caught my attention and drew me into the story. I think part of that was the dual storyline and alternating chapters between Adam's story and Rosalind’s story. Perhaps, given the ending of this book, we’ll see both Rosalind and Adam working side-by-side on future cases. I certainly hope that is the case.
Overall, I was disappointed in the book and the characters and would not read it a second time. I want to like Adam and Rosalind and cheer for them as they work together to solve cases, and I hope that will happen starting with the next book. If it doesn’t, then I probably won’t pursue reading any future books in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews