I received this book as a giveaway from the publisher (thank you!) and I pushed off reading it to read another book from a different author. I wish I read Relative Fortunes first! It was a great read. I would give the book closer to 4.5 stars if I could.

Marlowe Benn used the time period, city, and social conflicts as a major part of this murder mystery which made the book read more like a historical fiction. The main character, Julia Kydd, is a strong woman and likable heroine even at her weakest moments. I loved the character development of both Julia and her brother, Phillip and the witty relationship that evolves. I was surprised by both the ending of the murder and the book.

I am going to suggest this book to my book club this month because I liked it so much and I look forward to the next book!