This
is the third novel in this series. While it reads relatively well on
its own, the plot is definitely character driven. It is important to
know about the two women and their previous exploits to fully enjoy
this story. I would highly suggest the previous books in the series,
The Bachelor Girl's Guide to Murder
and A Lesson in Love and Murder,
be read first.
The
style of this novel is reminiscent of the Sherlock Holmes stories.
Merinda is the brains of the duo with a sharp mind and a bent to
investigation. She carries a magnifying glass and likes to perform
experiments that aid in her investigative knowledge. Jem is her side
kick. She's a quiet soul, trying to juggle a family and her drive for
adventure.
The
setting is Toronto in 1914. Canada is just considering getting into
the war. Some of the plot revolves around the feelings some have
toward recent immigrants from Germany or nearby countries. It is also
a time when women were becoming more interested in their equality
with men. Some are even taking up Merinda's habit of wearing
trousers.
The
plot revolves around several murders where a white feather was left.
The feather is known as a symbol of cowardice in the Boer War. I felt
the mystery aspect of the plot was not as interesting as the
historical information included. McMillan has done her research and,
as she shares in the Author's Note, she portrays well a turbulent
time in the city's history.
I
recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a character driven mystery
in the style of Holmes and Watson. You'll be entertained and find out
about an interesting time in Canada's history.
My
rating: 4/5 stars.
Rachel
McMillan is a history enthusiast and lifelong bibliophile. She lives
in Toronto where she works in educational publishing. You can follow her blog at www.a-fair-substitute-for-heaven.blogspot.com.
Harvest
House Publishers, 224 pages.
I
received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My
comments are an independent and honest review.
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