Rating: ★★★★
I received this book for free free as part of an Instagram tour (TLC Book Tours specifically) I did to promote the book.
This was a very intriguing historical fiction mystery.
The book’s strongest point was that it was very atmospheric. It nailed that grimy Victorian England vibe perfectly. The author did a tremendous job bringing that world to life and evoking an air of mystery.
I liked how the book focused on the unsavory parts of Victorian England. From the life of orphans to brothels, this book showcased it all. It was really interesting to see that mixed in with the musical element. It all worked really well together.
As for the mystery, I thought it was good up until the end. It was a fairly straight forward mystery so I wasn’t necessarily wowed by it. It was pretty much solved about 75% of the way through. The rest of the book was just the resolution and aftermath of it all. That being said, it was a very action packed last quarter.
There was a little bit of romance in this as well, but I could have done without it. It felt a little forced. The book would have been just as strong had it not been there.
Overall, this was a compelling historical mystery that will make you feel like you are actually in Victorian England.
Odd and Bookish 