A mystery set in Victorian England by the New York Times–bestselling author whose “novels attain the societal sweep of Trollope or Thackeray” (Booklist, starred review). When her mother asks her help in finding a lost locket with a compromising picture, neither Charlotte Pitt, nor her mother, has any idea that the locket may be at the center of a bizarre chain of events leading to murder. … events leading to murder. Arriving at her mother’s home at Rutland Place, Charlotte discovers that other residents of the exclusive neighborhood have also suffered similar small thefts. It all appears quite mild as crimes go—a light-fingered servant, perhaps. That is, until Mina Spencer-Brown, a woman known for her prying, is poisoned and dies. Inspector Thomas Pitt quickly surmises that Mina’s snooping might have led to her murder, but what secrets had she stumbled upon? And whose? As Pitt patiently struggles to break down the protective silence of high-born neighbors, Charlotte works behind the closed doors of society’s drawing rooms to help unravel a mystery that reveals sordid secrets and the chilling, dark corners of human behavior.
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Another great book by Anne Perry. I know went I start reading I won’t be able to put it down.
Realistic characters are depicted within an accurate description of English society. Perry accurately captures the concept of personal weaknesses, which we all have and the extremes a person will ensude to keep those traits or indiscretions private. She also vividly describes how a twisted mind can use that knowledge to torment and manipulate.
All of Anne Perry’s books are great. I discovered her late and liked her writing so much I went back to the beginning and I’m working my way through and having a great read doing it. If you like this period in British history can’t go wrong with any of her books!
Reviewed: Feb 20, 2017
Another wonderful book by Anne Perry evoking the sinister side of human nature of which she does so well. This is the 5th book in the Charlotte and Thomas Pitt series of Victorian murder/mystery and my first review of her books. Each book is a stand-a-lone mystery. However, I have enjoyed how Charlotte and Thomas’ relationship from strangers to husband and wife has evolved through each of the books. I have also enjoyed how Thomas Pitt’s career as a policeman, to now Inspector, has come about and how Charlotte has taken an active interest in his cases. The other aspect of these stories is the great divide between the upper and lower classes and those in-between…the rigidness of society in general.
As the book description states, Charlotte is asked by her mother for assistance in trying to find her missing locket. This locket has no real value other than sentimental, but it does hold a secret. However, as they receive and make calls on their neighbours of Rutland Place, she finds out that others are missing items as well. But quickly the theft of these items soon loses some significance as one of the neighbours is poisoned and dies. Is it suicide or murder? What secrets are these neighbours hiding? For soon there is another tragic accident that leads to death…but is it? I love trying to find clues among Ms. Perry’s descriptions and dialogue. They are so subtle at times that it is easy to miss. But once you know what exactly has happened, you realize what those seemingly innocent things are.
I read this years ago, because I like Charlotte and Thomas
Love this series!
It was impossible to relate to the ultra snobs in this novel. Worst of all was the protagonist’s mother who cared more about a little gold locket than the happiness of her daughter’s family. She would not permit the husband of her daughter and father of her grandchildren into her house on a social visit because his station in life was so far beneath her. Who could possibly care about such superficial snobs.
As always, Miss Perry’s mysteries are great reading. She works in modern issues into her Victorian placed stories. Many of our modern womens issues were issues then. Great reads!
All of Anne Perry’s books are excellent! Great mystery combined with historical intrigue!! Her books do not disappoint!
I enjoyed reading until I got to the end which seems that it ended so abruptly, leaving the end clean up to the imagination of the reader. No explanation as to what the final proof was of the killer.
Anne Perry is my favorite period author. When I read her books, I forget I am reading and can see the images in my imagination, like watching a movie in my mind. There are unpredictable twists and turns with multiple stories overlapping the main story. Her characters are highly developed, and you do not have to read in order as there are subtle references to the main characters and how they fit into the story. All of Anne Perry’s books I have read are excellent, and this one delivered. Would highly recommend if you love period novels set in England.
Strong distinctive main characters and detailed look into a historical way of life that, thankfully, is no more
Anne Perry creates the most rich tapestry with her character descriptions. It feels like you are right there in Victorian England. I love that the mysteries are a bit more complex than many others.
great characters, great historical fiction
I really should give this book a 4+. It was original and very entertaining.
As usual, Perry does an excellent job of capturing 19th century London, plus her mystery is complex enough to intrigue. I’d rate it 5 stars if she didn’t spend quite so much effort on domestic detail, as usual. It’s interesting, but I do get tired of reading how wonderful Charlotte’s and Thomas’ marriage is. Charlotte’s great-aunt (I think) is wonderful, and it’s always fun to have Emily involved.
Ann Perry is a very good writer and I like Charlotte and her husband.
Anne Perry writes Victorian England as if she lived there. Thomas and Charlotte Pitt are a wonderful couple. Although there is a thread that runs through all the books, they can be read alone. Excellent read.
I enjoyed it. Very interesting.
Love this series can’t wait to read more!