All’s Fair in Love and Treachery (Lady Petra Inquires, 2)
This is the second book in Celeste Connally’s Regency mystery series featuring Lady Petra Forsyth, an unconventional noblewoman who declares her intention never to marry, after the death of her fiancé in an accident. At the beginning of this novel, Petra finds evidence that her fiancé was murdered and that her childhood playmate and current lover, Duncan Shawcross, was responsible for his death. But before she can confront Duncan, he disappears, giving no indication of his whereabouts. As London celebrates Wellington’s victory at Waterloo, Queen Charlotte asks Petra to investigate the murder of the matron of an orphanage for girls, several of whom are the illegitimate daughters of aristocrats. A note threatening the Queen was found with the matron’s body. Petra discovers ties between the orphanage and a radical group planning to bring down the monarchy and kill members of the royal family. She also learns she only has three days to stop the attack, and that Duncan may be involved with the group.
This is an excellent addition to the world of Regency mysteries. Petra is an exceptionally strong heroine, who refuses to play by the rules of a society that does not give women the same rights as men. She is a skilled horseback rider, fights well with a dagger, and carries a set of lockpicks that come in handy more than once. She shares the radical group’s desire to reform society, especially where women’s rights are concerned, but is opposed to the violent means they want to use to bring about change. I also enjoyed reading about her group of friends, including her best friend Lady Caroline (who can shoot a bow and arrow better than anyone in England), Lottie the dog trainer, and Frances the apothecary. I look forward to more of Petra’s adventures. Highly recommended.
