Publication September 19, 2017, courtesy of Berkley
Objective rating: 4.5/5
This is the second novel in the Change of Fortune series, but it can be read as a stand-alone work, as most books in series can.
Ruby Proulx has traveled to a seaside hotel owned by her aunt Honoria, in order to help out and also contribute as a psychic medium for guests. The hotel is visited by psychics and others interested in the supernatural, and part of the hotel's draw is its reputation for readings and other metaphysical events. A well known spiritualist and suffragette, Sophronia, comes to the hotel for an extended stay and mentors Ruby in her art. However, when a murder occurs nearby, Ruby finds herself helping solve the mystery and its connection to her aunt's hotel.
The motive for the murder is one that is common in mysteries, especially earlier ones, but also in this one. Could it be fear of loss of reputation? I hope that tidbit doesn't give too much away. But the question of true motive remains a mystery as you read along.
I enjoyed this unusual book's setting - the era of women's fight for voting and other rights - and I like that the supernatural aspects of the plot are not overwhelming. I am planning to read the first in the series, Whispers Beyond the Veil.
Book beginning:
The atmosphere of the suffrage rally had far more in common with a medicine show performance than the attendants would likely have enjoyed hearing. In my experience, crowds of people composed of some filled with hope and other with scepticism, create the same impression, no matter the subject of the gathering. Even the setting was similar.... I felt oddly at home and deeply uncomfortable all at the same time.Page 56:
Heavy velvet draperies hung alongside the long, mullioned windows. The wallpaper provided diners with a sense that they were seated in a fairy-tale aviary.Memes: The Friday 56. Grab a book, turn to page 56 or 56% of your eReader. Find any sentence that grabs you. Post it, and add your URL post in Linky at Freda's Voice. Also visit Book Beginning at Rose City Reader.
I have been eyeing this book. Now I want to read it. I'm featuring Sleep Like a Baby by Charlaine Harris this week. Happy reading!
ReplyDeleteHOpe you enjoy it too!
DeleteLove reading about the suffragette movement...and seeing some of those protests in movies.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, and here's mine: “LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE”
Women are still fighting for rights,tho they can vote!
DeleteThis sounds interesting and a little different. I like the book beginning. I would always read a series in order so I would start with the first book.
ReplyDeleteIn case you don't get to it, this book reads fine as a stand alone book.
DeleteI've seen this book around and it looks interesting!
ReplyDeleteHere’s my Friday 56!
Ronyell @ Rabbit Ears Book Blog
It's a nice, entertaining read.
DeleteYou're the second person reading this one this week. It's sparked my interest.
ReplyDeleteHope you get a chance to read it, Nicki.
DeleteI definitely want to try this series. :)
ReplyDeleteLauren @ Always Me
Only two books in the series to far, so it shouldn't be a problem!
DeleteSounds to be beautifully written! Have a great week ahead!
ReplyDeleteI enjoy well written books!
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