What do you think?
Rate this book
Queen Victoria’s Daughters #3
The Shadow Princess
London, 1888: A year after Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee terror mounts in the city's slums. A killer has butchered two prostitutes, the crimes brutal even by London’s hardened standards. Rumors of the murders reach Princess Vicky, daughter of Queen Victoria and grieving widow of the German Emperor Frederick III. When her niece Princess Maud visits, she brings with her even worse news--the Metropolitan Police have a suspect. It’s Vicky’s nephew, Crown Prince Eddy. Desperate to clear her family's name, Vicky rushes back to England.
Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson believes there is a royal cover-up behind the killings. He will stop at nothing to expose the truth and bring a murderer to justice before he can kill again. But when Vicky joins him in searching for the man who will become known as Jack the Ripper, neither of them foresee the overpowering attraction that will draw together the royal and the commoner—or the danger their love puts them in.
Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson believes there is a royal cover-up behind the killings. He will stop at nothing to expose the truth and bring a murderer to justice before he can kill again. But when Vicky joins him in searching for the man who will become known as Jack the Ripper, neither of them foresee the overpowering attraction that will draw together the royal and the commoner—or the danger their love puts them in.
302 pages, Paperback
First published February 9, 2014
15 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Mary Hart Perry
6 books78 followersMary Hart Perry is a penname for Kathryn Kimball Johnson. So far, her novels have been romantic Victorian thrillers. Mary loves 19th-century clothing, jewelry, London, royalty, castles and disappearing into that distant era whenever possible through her stories. Mary/Kathryn currently lives in the Washington, DC area with her husband and two feline writing partners.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 11, 2014
The Shadow Princess by Mary Hart Perry is a 2014 Diversion Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Vicky, daugter of Queen Victoria , has returned to England after the death of her husband, bringing her daugher, Sophie, with her. She returns just as the first murders are being commited by the infamous "Jack the Ripper". Queen Victoria confides in her daughter that Eddy, the queen's grandson is a suspect in the killings and the public is accusing the queen of trying to lead the investigators away from Eddy. So, the Queen packs up for a little trip and pleads with Vicky to keep close tabs on the case. Vicky isn't the only one the inserts themselves into the investigation. Her daughter and niece also attempt to discover who the ripper is in a misguided attempt to prove Eddy isn't the killer.
Once Vicky meets the Inspector, Thomas Edmondson, the two have an instant chemistry between them. While Edmondton is leaning toward a royal coverup he is still interested in seeing Vicky and hearing her opinions. In fact, the two begin to make up reasons to see one another to the utter horror of Vicky's daughter, Sophie. How could her mother keep company with with a commoner?
The press also have their hands in things as they throw around all sorts of theories and accusations.
As members of the royal family find themselves crawling around in White Chapel at night looking for the ripper, more killings take place and more pressure is added to the Inspector to find the culprit.
This historical fiction/ Victorian era romantic mystery was a very enjoyable read. While it is obvious the author did research and added real live events to the story, there were many liberties taken and if you keep in mind that this story was written for entertainment purposes, you will find yourself swept up in the adventure and romance.
The class differences and the duty both Vicky and Thomas must uphold makes their relationship impossible. Vicky would love to just toss all of it aside and fall headlong into an affair with Thomas, but of course in reality this could never happen. In the end they would both regret such a decision. So, we are left wondering if we will be cheated out of the HEA.
The identity of Jack the Ripper would remain a mystery for many, many years. Recently some historicans and authors believe they know who the ripper was , and I think they make a strong case. They author gives us her version of who the killer is and wraps things up explaining why the killer remained anoymous all these years. The story of Vicky and Thomas also concludes with more satisfaction than I thought it would.
Writing about Jack the Ripper makes it impossible to avoid some graphic depictions, but overall the author did a good job of keeping that to a minimum. There was a nice balance between the mystery, the adventure, and the romance. The characters are familiar to us, but the author puts her own stamp on their personalities and motives.
If you enjoy historical mysteries and romances you will like this one as long as you take it all too seriously. Oveall this one is a B.
Vicky, daugter of Queen Victoria , has returned to England after the death of her husband, bringing her daugher, Sophie, with her. She returns just as the first murders are being commited by the infamous "Jack the Ripper". Queen Victoria confides in her daughter that Eddy, the queen's grandson is a suspect in the killings and the public is accusing the queen of trying to lead the investigators away from Eddy. So, the Queen packs up for a little trip and pleads with Vicky to keep close tabs on the case. Vicky isn't the only one the inserts themselves into the investigation. Her daughter and niece also attempt to discover who the ripper is in a misguided attempt to prove Eddy isn't the killer.
Once Vicky meets the Inspector, Thomas Edmondson, the two have an instant chemistry between them. While Edmondton is leaning toward a royal coverup he is still interested in seeing Vicky and hearing her opinions. In fact, the two begin to make up reasons to see one another to the utter horror of Vicky's daughter, Sophie. How could her mother keep company with with a commoner?
The press also have their hands in things as they throw around all sorts of theories and accusations.
As members of the royal family find themselves crawling around in White Chapel at night looking for the ripper, more killings take place and more pressure is added to the Inspector to find the culprit.
This historical fiction/ Victorian era romantic mystery was a very enjoyable read. While it is obvious the author did research and added real live events to the story, there were many liberties taken and if you keep in mind that this story was written for entertainment purposes, you will find yourself swept up in the adventure and romance.
The class differences and the duty both Vicky and Thomas must uphold makes their relationship impossible. Vicky would love to just toss all of it aside and fall headlong into an affair with Thomas, but of course in reality this could never happen. In the end they would both regret such a decision. So, we are left wondering if we will be cheated out of the HEA.
The identity of Jack the Ripper would remain a mystery for many, many years. Recently some historicans and authors believe they know who the ripper was , and I think they make a strong case. They author gives us her version of who the killer is and wraps things up explaining why the killer remained anoymous all these years. The story of Vicky and Thomas also concludes with more satisfaction than I thought it would.
Writing about Jack the Ripper makes it impossible to avoid some graphic depictions, but overall the author did a good job of keeping that to a minimum. There was a nice balance between the mystery, the adventure, and the romance. The characters are familiar to us, but the author puts her own stamp on their personalities and motives.
If you enjoy historical mysteries and romances you will like this one as long as you take it all too seriously. Oveall this one is a B.
February 24, 2014
This is a very exciting story, it pulls you forward page by page. Perry`s descriptions paint a very vivid and shockingly real picture for her audience. She takes a one of a kind look at the time surrounding Jack the Ripper`s sojourn in Whitechapel that combines the chill and horror of the time with a look at the lives of individuals who may have lived through it. This story is also accurately and firmly placed within the time period in question while creating an excitingly unique journey for the reader.
I quite enjoyed how approachable the characters are. Although many of the major players in the tale are royalty or at the top of the profession of law enforcement at a very difficult time they still remain personable and human. The relationships between the characters tell you as much about the individuals as Perry`s descriptions of them do, making for a well-rounded cast of characters. I also appreciated the naiveté in the younger characters. It was very refreshing to see young, sheltered individuals act as such.
All in all this is a story that I won’t soon forget. It was another brilliant, well written novel by Mary Hart Perry that I`d definitely recommend to anyone and everyone.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I quite enjoyed how approachable the characters are. Although many of the major players in the tale are royalty or at the top of the profession of law enforcement at a very difficult time they still remain personable and human. The relationships between the characters tell you as much about the individuals as Perry`s descriptions of them do, making for a well-rounded cast of characters. I also appreciated the naiveté in the younger characters. It was very refreshing to see young, sheltered individuals act as such.
All in all this is a story that I won’t soon forget. It was another brilliant, well written novel by Mary Hart Perry that I`d definitely recommend to anyone and everyone.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2014
3.5 stars
I read and reviewed the previous book in this series (Seducing the Princess) about the daughters of Queen Victoria last year, and although I had a few reservations, I thought the book was well written and that the historical detail and the fictional elements of the story were well blended. Like its predecessor, The Shadow Princess takes a member of the royal family as its main character and then builds its story around her; a story which is fictional but which makes use of historical fact.
The protagonist in this novel is Princess Victoria, the eldest daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The Empress of Germany, Victoria – or Vicky – is the mother of Kaiser Wilhelm II, and at the beginning of the book, she has been recently widowed and is finding her life stifling and lacking purpose. Her son is becoming more and more unmanageable, his increasing hatred of the English colouring his relationship with her, and Vicky fears – not without reason (and as history bears out) – that Wilhelm’s reign will not be either pleasant or prosperous.
So Vicky is at a loss. Having been bred to be a queen and brought up to be a true helpmeet to her husband, she feels marginalised and is sinking into a depression. But events in England have brought her niece, Maud (daughter of Edward, Prince of Wales) to Germany to try to entice Vicky to return to England. Edward’s eldest son is notorious for his rather wild lifestyle and for his penchant for venturing into the less salubrious areas of London, and while this, of itself, might be a matter of little real concern, his visits to the Whitechapel area in particular have led to his name being linked to a couple of gruesome murders which have recently taken place there.
Maud wants Vicky to come to London to try to persuade the police that Eddy has nothing to do with the murders; the relationship between the royals and the Metropolitan Police is none too cordial at present, and as the Queen is about to depart for Balmoral, Maud decides that her aunt is the ideal person to try to divert the police’s attention from her brother.
Vicky does not really see what she will be able to do to help the situation, but having no pressing need to stay in Germany, agrees, and brings her eldest daughter, Sophie, to London with her.
The story that follows sees Vicky become involved in the investigation into the infamous Whitechapel murders, in a fairly small way at first, by offering to become the liaison between the royal family and the police and opening up channels for a frank exchange of information between them. In this way, she becomes acquainted with the handsome Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson, and through her association with him, and her interest in the unfolding case, she begins to emerge from her lethargy and depression and re-discover her zest for life.
At first, Edmondson is suspicious of Vicky’s motives, thinking she is trying to engineer a cover-up in favour of her nephew, but as the case progresses, he realises she is truly keen to help find the killer. He also finds himself fighting an infatuation, something he knows can never amount to anything because of the huge difference in their stations. Yet the attraction between them is undeniable, and they begin to make excuses to spend time in each other’s company, much to the chagrin of Vicky’s daughter who is horrified at the idea of her mothers’ becoming involved with a mere “commoner”.
Overall, I found The Shadow Princess to be an entertaining novel. The author’s descriptions of the seedier parts of London were very evocative, and I thought her take on the true identity of Jack the Ripper and his motives was just as valid as any of the others that have been put forward over the years. The pacing was good, and there were some very tense moments during the hunt for the killer which, while somewhat far-fetched, nonetheless added to the story’s appeal and made for an exciting read.
On the downside, if you’re someone who looks for pinpoint historical accuracy in historical fiction, then this might not be the book for you. The story is well told, but the problem in selecting a real person – and a royal one at that – as your principal character is that there are a limited number of ways the story can progress given that the protagonist’s life is a matter of historical record. The two younger princesses, Sophie and Maud, were only thinly fleshed-out and most of the time seemed only to be present in the story in order to do something really stupid for Vicky to worry about and then set to rights. There were some elements to the novel which required rather a larger suspension of disbelief than I normally like (it’s hard to say too much without spoilers), but I was invested enough to want to know how things would turn out in the end, so I decided to go with the flow and keep reading.
I enjoyed seeing a more mature woman (Vicky is in her late forties) as a romantic heroine. I do think the romance in the novel was rather rushed – Thomas (who is ten years Vicky’s junior) and Vicky are in the grip of a very strong mutual attraction from their first meeting, and very quickly find themselves hard pressed to keep their hands off each other, both mentally and physically. But the huge class difference between them, and their devotion to their own specific duties make a long-term relationship impossible, so the romance in the book is rather bitter-sweet. But it was handled well, and I liked that Ms Hart Perry had both protagonists face up to the obstacles in their path and reach the same conclusions.
Overall, The Shadow Princess works well as a piece of entertainment if you’re prepared to accept a certain degree of creative licence. The author has clearly done her homework (despite the glaring use of a few Americanisms, such as “sidewalk”, and the use of a few anachronistic expressions) and has put her research to good use in her descriptions of late-Victorian London, as well as in her depiction of Jack the Ripper. There is a good balance between the mystery and the romance; and all in all, the book is a quick, engaging read.
I read and reviewed the previous book in this series (Seducing the Princess) about the daughters of Queen Victoria last year, and although I had a few reservations, I thought the book was well written and that the historical detail and the fictional elements of the story were well blended. Like its predecessor, The Shadow Princess takes a member of the royal family as its main character and then builds its story around her; a story which is fictional but which makes use of historical fact.
The protagonist in this novel is Princess Victoria, the eldest daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The Empress of Germany, Victoria – or Vicky – is the mother of Kaiser Wilhelm II, and at the beginning of the book, she has been recently widowed and is finding her life stifling and lacking purpose. Her son is becoming more and more unmanageable, his increasing hatred of the English colouring his relationship with her, and Vicky fears – not without reason (and as history bears out) – that Wilhelm’s reign will not be either pleasant or prosperous.
So Vicky is at a loss. Having been bred to be a queen and brought up to be a true helpmeet to her husband, she feels marginalised and is sinking into a depression. But events in England have brought her niece, Maud (daughter of Edward, Prince of Wales) to Germany to try to entice Vicky to return to England. Edward’s eldest son is notorious for his rather wild lifestyle and for his penchant for venturing into the less salubrious areas of London, and while this, of itself, might be a matter of little real concern, his visits to the Whitechapel area in particular have led to his name being linked to a couple of gruesome murders which have recently taken place there.
Maud wants Vicky to come to London to try to persuade the police that Eddy has nothing to do with the murders; the relationship between the royals and the Metropolitan Police is none too cordial at present, and as the Queen is about to depart for Balmoral, Maud decides that her aunt is the ideal person to try to divert the police’s attention from her brother.
Vicky does not really see what she will be able to do to help the situation, but having no pressing need to stay in Germany, agrees, and brings her eldest daughter, Sophie, to London with her.
The story that follows sees Vicky become involved in the investigation into the infamous Whitechapel murders, in a fairly small way at first, by offering to become the liaison between the royal family and the police and opening up channels for a frank exchange of information between them. In this way, she becomes acquainted with the handsome Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson, and through her association with him, and her interest in the unfolding case, she begins to emerge from her lethargy and depression and re-discover her zest for life.
At first, Edmondson is suspicious of Vicky’s motives, thinking she is trying to engineer a cover-up in favour of her nephew, but as the case progresses, he realises she is truly keen to help find the killer. He also finds himself fighting an infatuation, something he knows can never amount to anything because of the huge difference in their stations. Yet the attraction between them is undeniable, and they begin to make excuses to spend time in each other’s company, much to the chagrin of Vicky’s daughter who is horrified at the idea of her mothers’ becoming involved with a mere “commoner”.
Overall, I found The Shadow Princess to be an entertaining novel. The author’s descriptions of the seedier parts of London were very evocative, and I thought her take on the true identity of Jack the Ripper and his motives was just as valid as any of the others that have been put forward over the years. The pacing was good, and there were some very tense moments during the hunt for the killer which, while somewhat far-fetched, nonetheless added to the story’s appeal and made for an exciting read.
On the downside, if you’re someone who looks for pinpoint historical accuracy in historical fiction, then this might not be the book for you. The story is well told, but the problem in selecting a real person – and a royal one at that – as your principal character is that there are a limited number of ways the story can progress given that the protagonist’s life is a matter of historical record. The two younger princesses, Sophie and Maud, were only thinly fleshed-out and most of the time seemed only to be present in the story in order to do something really stupid for Vicky to worry about and then set to rights. There were some elements to the novel which required rather a larger suspension of disbelief than I normally like (it’s hard to say too much without spoilers), but I was invested enough to want to know how things would turn out in the end, so I decided to go with the flow and keep reading.
I enjoyed seeing a more mature woman (Vicky is in her late forties) as a romantic heroine. I do think the romance in the novel was rather rushed – Thomas (who is ten years Vicky’s junior) and Vicky are in the grip of a very strong mutual attraction from their first meeting, and very quickly find themselves hard pressed to keep their hands off each other, both mentally and physically. But the huge class difference between them, and their devotion to their own specific duties make a long-term relationship impossible, so the romance in the book is rather bitter-sweet. But it was handled well, and I liked that Ms Hart Perry had both protagonists face up to the obstacles in their path and reach the same conclusions.
Overall, The Shadow Princess works well as a piece of entertainment if you’re prepared to accept a certain degree of creative licence. The author has clearly done her homework (despite the glaring use of a few Americanisms, such as “sidewalk”, and the use of a few anachronistic expressions) and has put her research to good use in her descriptions of late-Victorian London, as well as in her depiction of Jack the Ripper. There is a good balance between the mystery and the romance; and all in all, the book is a quick, engaging read.
February 11, 2014
Queen Victoria's oldest daughter helping to solve the case of Jack the Ripper and romancing with the detective inspector leading the investigation? Most definitely! It's like a fairytale romance for the murder mystery lover. I had such a good time reading this one.
Vicky has been merely existing since her husband, Emperor Frederick III of Germany passed and her volatile son, Willy succeeded him. She notices little going on around her until her brother Bertie the Prince of Wale's daughter, Maud, bursts in and insists that her brother is in trouble. A vicious murderer is loose in Whitechapel and Eddy has been questioned as one of the suspects.
Vicky returns to her home country accompanied by Maud and daughter Sophie prepared to do what she can to assist her family. The Queen is concerned about Eddy's possible part in things, but more so about her inability to aid her distressed people who are in danger from a fiend. She leaves for Balmoral while charging Vicky to do what she can for their people.
Thomas Edmondson feels the increasing pressure to do what he can to end the violence against the prostitutes. He and his men have followed every lead and patrol the streets to keep people safe. The press prints all sorts of speculative news including letters from the person stylizing themselves as 'Jack the Ripper'. Now he has a royal insisting on being involved in the investigation because a member of her family is under investigation. At first, he is resentful because he thinks the Empress seeks to bribe him or to suppress anything incriminating about Prince Eddy, but then he realizes that she really wants to help in her own way. Meanwhile, he starts having thoughts about the beautiful woman that he shouldn't knowing she is way out of his class.
Vicky hasn't felt so alive in ages. Working with Thomas Edmondson has woken up all her senses including that of desire. Keeping her adventuresome daughter and niece reined in, pursuing a killer through the dark streets of London and engaging in passion-filled trysts with Thomas make her feel young and useful again. The time with Thomas is bittersweet knowing they have no future together, but if they don't stop the killer it might be that her future may be cut short.
The author did a fine job making me believe I was really reading from the Empress Vicky's perspective and that of the commoner policeman, Thomas Edmondson. She blended the known facts of the Ripper case and situation in the royal family at the time into a plausible and exciting plot. And the romance? That too had that 'could have happened' feel to it.
The story swaps back and forth mostly between Vicky and Thomas' perspectives, but also Sophie and the killer's points of view too. Vicky starts out very autocratic with Thomas and slowly warms to him just as he starts out suspicious and then opens up to trust her. As the murder case progresses, the desperation starts to come through and the tension tightens for all the players.
The attraction between Vicky and Thomas was instantaneous, but it developed along a nice pace. These two were at mature ages and once they got around the class difference that worried Thomas and the natural temerity on the sheltered Vicky's part, they weren't afraid of some passion heating up between them. I felt sorrow with them when they pulled back knowing there was an expiration date on their time together and a worry for their different reputations and responsibilities.
I have to mention the attention to description and accuracy for the times. Without letting it overpower the story, the author still made me see in my imagination the people, activities and places like dark destitute East End of London and the luxury of Kensington Palace of the Victorian era.
So all in all, I found this one engaging on so many levels and I want to read more by the author. Those who enjoy historical romantic suspense with a touch of spice should give this one a try. This one is written as a standalone, but I noticed that the author has tackled the stories of two other daughters of Queen Victoria.
My thanks to Diversion Books and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for an honest review.
Vicky has been merely existing since her husband, Emperor Frederick III of Germany passed and her volatile son, Willy succeeded him. She notices little going on around her until her brother Bertie the Prince of Wale's daughter, Maud, bursts in and insists that her brother is in trouble. A vicious murderer is loose in Whitechapel and Eddy has been questioned as one of the suspects.
Vicky returns to her home country accompanied by Maud and daughter Sophie prepared to do what she can to assist her family. The Queen is concerned about Eddy's possible part in things, but more so about her inability to aid her distressed people who are in danger from a fiend. She leaves for Balmoral while charging Vicky to do what she can for their people.
Thomas Edmondson feels the increasing pressure to do what he can to end the violence against the prostitutes. He and his men have followed every lead and patrol the streets to keep people safe. The press prints all sorts of speculative news including letters from the person stylizing themselves as 'Jack the Ripper'. Now he has a royal insisting on being involved in the investigation because a member of her family is under investigation. At first, he is resentful because he thinks the Empress seeks to bribe him or to suppress anything incriminating about Prince Eddy, but then he realizes that she really wants to help in her own way. Meanwhile, he starts having thoughts about the beautiful woman that he shouldn't knowing she is way out of his class.
Vicky hasn't felt so alive in ages. Working with Thomas Edmondson has woken up all her senses including that of desire. Keeping her adventuresome daughter and niece reined in, pursuing a killer through the dark streets of London and engaging in passion-filled trysts with Thomas make her feel young and useful again. The time with Thomas is bittersweet knowing they have no future together, but if they don't stop the killer it might be that her future may be cut short.
The author did a fine job making me believe I was really reading from the Empress Vicky's perspective and that of the commoner policeman, Thomas Edmondson. She blended the known facts of the Ripper case and situation in the royal family at the time into a plausible and exciting plot. And the romance? That too had that 'could have happened' feel to it.
The story swaps back and forth mostly between Vicky and Thomas' perspectives, but also Sophie and the killer's points of view too. Vicky starts out very autocratic with Thomas and slowly warms to him just as he starts out suspicious and then opens up to trust her. As the murder case progresses, the desperation starts to come through and the tension tightens for all the players.
The attraction between Vicky and Thomas was instantaneous, but it developed along a nice pace. These two were at mature ages and once they got around the class difference that worried Thomas and the natural temerity on the sheltered Vicky's part, they weren't afraid of some passion heating up between them. I felt sorrow with them when they pulled back knowing there was an expiration date on their time together and a worry for their different reputations and responsibilities.
I have to mention the attention to description and accuracy for the times. Without letting it overpower the story, the author still made me see in my imagination the people, activities and places like dark destitute East End of London and the luxury of Kensington Palace of the Victorian era.
So all in all, I found this one engaging on so many levels and I want to read more by the author. Those who enjoy historical romantic suspense with a touch of spice should give this one a try. This one is written as a standalone, but I noticed that the author has tackled the stories of two other daughters of Queen Victoria.
My thanks to Diversion Books and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2014
This was a fun book. It's not something to taken as accurate historical fiction. Queen Victoria's daughter certainly didn't run around Whitechapel searching for Jack the Ripper, but it does make a great yarn. Ms. Perry knows how to tell a tale, how to keep readers on their toes. I even had dreams of Jack the Ripper when I read this one before bed!
First of all, big applause to having an older heroine: 48, I believe, is the Queen's eldest daughter, the one who was briefly Queen of Germany (Is that right?). Austria? Something like that. She's recovering from her husband's death and in this tale, she finds herself a mission/purpose again and it turns out to be some badly-needed drive. She also realizes that she's not dead, that it's okay to move on. Very nice little side theme. I could relate to this. I totally understand the need to have a purpose, a mission.
The Jack the Ripper case was a great touch of suspense. Technically we never knew who the Ripper was, but Ms. Perry comes up with her own. Well done. A bit contrived, all of it, but as I said above, this isn't a story one reads expecting accuracy, though from the author's note, she utilized real letters and whatnot, and apparently the queen's own grandson was a suspect!
There's a romance. I will admit it sorta appears out of thin air. I had some trouble believing it, but in the end I liked their connection. Vicky falls for a detective, which back then was considered a commoner.
Something that really, really put me off however is her daughter, Sophie. What an awful girl. Horrid. A terrible snot and brat. I question why she was made this way. It was a tad OTT. I hope the next book isn't about her, if there is one. She turned my stomach.
Full review: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
First of all, big applause to having an older heroine: 48, I believe, is the Queen's eldest daughter, the one who was briefly Queen of Germany (Is that right?). Austria? Something like that. She's recovering from her husband's death and in this tale, she finds herself a mission/purpose again and it turns out to be some badly-needed drive. She also realizes that she's not dead, that it's okay to move on. Very nice little side theme. I could relate to this. I totally understand the need to have a purpose, a mission.
The Jack the Ripper case was a great touch of suspense. Technically we never knew who the Ripper was, but Ms. Perry comes up with her own. Well done. A bit contrived, all of it, but as I said above, this isn't a story one reads expecting accuracy, though from the author's note, she utilized real letters and whatnot, and apparently the queen's own grandson was a suspect!
There's a romance. I will admit it sorta appears out of thin air. I had some trouble believing it, but in the end I liked their connection. Vicky falls for a detective, which back then was considered a commoner.
Something that really, really put me off however is her daughter, Sophie. What an awful girl. Horrid. A terrible snot and brat. I question why she was made this way. It was a tad OTT. I hope the next book isn't about her, if there is one. She turned my stomach.
Full review: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2014/...
February 17, 2014
THE SHADOW PRINCESS by Mary Hart Perry is an exciting Romantic Victorian Thriller set in 1888 London. "A Novel of Queen Victoria’s Daughters" #3, but can be read as a stand alone. See, "The Wild Princess" and "Seducing the Princess". A tale of a German Princess, a detective, the White Chapel Murders (aka Jack the Ripper), romance,danger and a royal love between an older woman and a British Detective.
Meet Princess Vicky, Queen Victoria's daughter and grieving widow of the German Emperor Frederick III. And Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson, who believes Princess Vicky's nephew,Crown Prince Eddy, just may be the one doing the killing.
Vicky joins Detective Thomas on his quest to bring someone to justice, find the truth and stop a killer. But they are in danger also of not only losing her heart but her life. They are attracted to each other from the start and that attraction grows. A royal and a commoner can love survive the difference between their status, their ages and the danger they are in? A dalliance is begun, and so the tale begins.....
You must read "The Shadow Princess" to find out this and so much more. What an exciting story with engaging characters, and an intriguing storyline. An enjoyable read from start to finish. I would recommend this title especially if you enjoy Victorian romance, Jack the Ripper tales, royalty, and a great story. I enjoyed this title and plan to go back and read the others in this series. There is more to life than just royalty as Princess Vicky shows the reader. There is love of family, country and finding second love. Fast paced and filled with danger and love. Received for an honest review from the publisher.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Meet Princess Vicky, Queen Victoria's daughter and grieving widow of the German Emperor Frederick III. And Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson, who believes Princess Vicky's nephew,Crown Prince Eddy, just may be the one doing the killing.
Vicky joins Detective Thomas on his quest to bring someone to justice, find the truth and stop a killer. But they are in danger also of not only losing her heart but her life. They are attracted to each other from the start and that attraction grows. A royal and a commoner can love survive the difference between their status, their ages and the danger they are in? A dalliance is begun, and so the tale begins.....
You must read "The Shadow Princess" to find out this and so much more. What an exciting story with engaging characters, and an intriguing storyline. An enjoyable read from start to finish. I would recommend this title especially if you enjoy Victorian romance, Jack the Ripper tales, royalty, and a great story. I enjoyed this title and plan to go back and read the others in this series. There is more to life than just royalty as Princess Vicky shows the reader. There is love of family, country and finding second love. Fast paced and filled with danger and love. Received for an honest review from the publisher.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
August 5, 2016
I am a great lover of mysteries and historical fiction, and I absolutely adore the fact that this combines two of my favorite genre. This novel is exceptionally well-written, and even though historical accuracy suffers minimally, it does not jeopardize the nature of the story. I was completely immersed in the story, and it commenced a fascinating discussion within the high school class where I was reading it. This book would be completely appropriate for young adult readers because even though heinous crimes are committed, overly gory details are omitted. In fact, this is essentially a cozy mystery--no descriptive bedroom scenes and only minimal profanity (there is one use of the f-word, and the other words are briefly scattered throughout and not too bad).
The only thing I do not like about the book is the fact that the two lovebirds choose not to marry. I understand that historically speaking a commoner and royalty could not marry, but I wish that there had been another way the two could have been together in a more morally acceptable way. It stands to reason that the truth would eventually come out one way or another. However, even this wrinkle does not ruin the story. The mystery is completely intriguing. The mystery kept me guessing until the end, and I would love to read more about Vicky and the Inspector again very soon!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
The only thing I do not like about the book is the fact that the two lovebirds choose not to marry. I understand that historically speaking a commoner and royalty could not marry, but I wish that there had been another way the two could have been together in a more morally acceptable way. It stands to reason that the truth would eventually come out one way or another. However, even this wrinkle does not ruin the story. The mystery is completely intriguing. The mystery kept me guessing until the end, and I would love to read more about Vicky and the Inspector again very soon!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
September 9, 2014
ARC provided by NetGalley
This book literally contains everything I love in life:
-London.
-Victorian Era.
-Mystery /Murder.
-Royalty.
-Romance as part of the plot and not being the plot.
Bonus:
-Not one but two characters that share my name, Victoria!
As soon as I read that Princess Vicky/Empress of Germany had to discover who was Jack the Ripper, this man that killed whores, I knew I was going to love this book. It gets better and better with every chapter.
One thing that I adore was that Vicky wasn’t a brainless teenager; she’s 46, and Empress, daughter of the Queen Victoria and a widow. She’s a complete grown up that acts like one. Extra points for that!
I even liked the romance (which is rare) because it wasn’t all over the place and when it did appeared it was portrayed smoothly.
This book literally contains everything I love in life:
-London.
-Victorian Era.
-Mystery /Murder.
-Royalty.
-Romance as part of the plot and not being the plot.
Bonus:
-Not one but two characters that share my name, Victoria!
As soon as I read that Princess Vicky/Empress of Germany had to discover who was Jack the Ripper, this man that killed whores, I knew I was going to love this book. It gets better and better with every chapter.
One thing that I adore was that Vicky wasn’t a brainless teenager; she’s 46, and Empress, daughter of the Queen Victoria and a widow. She’s a complete grown up that acts like one. Extra points for that!
I even liked the romance (which is rare) because it wasn’t all over the place and when it did appeared it was portrayed smoothly.
March 7, 2014
Princess Victoria's heart is aching. She's lost her beloved Fritz, and she's still smarting from what happened during the Golden Jubilee. She's felt so much pain and heartache that she's no longer sure as to what is up and what is down. Part of her wants to give up. To just let go of anything and everything. In her mind, she doesn't have much to live for despite the fact that most of her family still surrounds her.
All that changes, however, when her beloved niece turns up with a startling announcement. Unexpected murders have been committed in England, and the royal household has been implicated. For the most, part anyway. If they're to succeed in wiping the stain from the monarchy's name, Victoria knows she'll need to find it within herself to travel there to see what's truly going on.
Though she wants nothing more than to lie passive while the killer runs rampant on London's streets, Victoria soon comes to understand that there's a lot more at stake than she knew. Someone is clearly out to make a statement, and her beloved family has been tossed into the fray. Deep inside, she knows there's a plausible explanation to what's going on. She just has to find out what that is.
When Victoria comes across the enigmatic Thomas Edmondson, she tells herself that there's no way she's going to entertain his beliefs in regards to the killings. The thought of bandying about London with a commoner is something she knows she shouldn't do. Yet she can no longer let things lie as they are. The killings are increasing, and life for anyone, both royal and commoner, is no longer safe.
Determined to put a stop to the unexpected series of events occurring throughout Whitechapel, Victoria puts her trust in Thomas' hands. She's knows he'll keep her safe, or die trying. Together, they're going to do everything possible to put a stop to the killer's sordid plans. Somehow, some way, the streets will be made safe again. Yet there's one thing neither Victoria or Thomas counted upon throughout every inch of their dealings - the love growing unexpectedly between them. A love that might just cost them everything should they not succeed in their endeavor.
Another wonderful addition to the Wild Princesses series, The Shadow Princess will certainly not disappoint! We get a more in-depth look into what makes Vicky tick. Mary has done a wonderful job in portraying the Princess's pain, heartache, and vulnerabilities. Her determination also flies off the page. There's so much going on through every page that you'll find yourself going back to read a page or two just to make sure you ingested all of the pertinent information offered. A truly stunning and intriguing series, this is one you won't want to miss!
All that changes, however, when her beloved niece turns up with a startling announcement. Unexpected murders have been committed in England, and the royal household has been implicated. For the most, part anyway. If they're to succeed in wiping the stain from the monarchy's name, Victoria knows she'll need to find it within herself to travel there to see what's truly going on.
Though she wants nothing more than to lie passive while the killer runs rampant on London's streets, Victoria soon comes to understand that there's a lot more at stake than she knew. Someone is clearly out to make a statement, and her beloved family has been tossed into the fray. Deep inside, she knows there's a plausible explanation to what's going on. She just has to find out what that is.
When Victoria comes across the enigmatic Thomas Edmondson, she tells herself that there's no way she's going to entertain his beliefs in regards to the killings. The thought of bandying about London with a commoner is something she knows she shouldn't do. Yet she can no longer let things lie as they are. The killings are increasing, and life for anyone, both royal and commoner, is no longer safe.
Determined to put a stop to the unexpected series of events occurring throughout Whitechapel, Victoria puts her trust in Thomas' hands. She's knows he'll keep her safe, or die trying. Together, they're going to do everything possible to put a stop to the killer's sordid plans. Somehow, some way, the streets will be made safe again. Yet there's one thing neither Victoria or Thomas counted upon throughout every inch of their dealings - the love growing unexpectedly between them. A love that might just cost them everything should they not succeed in their endeavor.
Another wonderful addition to the Wild Princesses series, The Shadow Princess will certainly not disappoint! We get a more in-depth look into what makes Vicky tick. Mary has done a wonderful job in portraying the Princess's pain, heartache, and vulnerabilities. Her determination also flies off the page. There's so much going on through every page that you'll find yourself going back to read a page or two just to make sure you ingested all of the pertinent information offered. A truly stunning and intriguing series, this is one you won't want to miss!
March 1, 2014
It is no secret that I am one of Mary Hart Perry's biggest fans. You can check out my reviews of The Wild Princess and Seducing the Princess if you don't believe me.
That being said, it was extremely difficult to be objective when reading The Shadow Princess. But I tried. And let me tell you, objectively, that this book is at least as exciting and romantic as its predecessors.
The story of Queen Victoria's eldest daughter, Vicky, and her assistance in the investigation into the Whitechapel Murders (aka Jack the Ripper) is a work of fiction. However, it is so well-researched and well-written that you will feel like you are right there in the side streets of London viewing the aftermath of the Ripper's disgusting crimes right alongside Empress Vicky.
As always, Perry's characters are real people, fleshed out and feeling. Vicky is someone I would like to be friends with and her dilemma between duty and love is heart-wrenching and sweet.
I also enjoyed Vicky's relationship with her children as compared to her mother's relationship with Vicky and her siblings. One of the saddest parts for me was when Vicky laments her megalomaniac son, Willy (if you know your history, you will realize that Wily eventually becomes Kaiser Wilhelm). Reading Perry's books has prompted me to look deeper into British history, particularly the Victorian era. It is interesting to see how closely related so many European royals were or are to each other.
That being said, it was extremely difficult to be objective when reading The Shadow Princess. But I tried. And let me tell you, objectively, that this book is at least as exciting and romantic as its predecessors.
The story of Queen Victoria's eldest daughter, Vicky, and her assistance in the investigation into the Whitechapel Murders (aka Jack the Ripper) is a work of fiction. However, it is so well-researched and well-written that you will feel like you are right there in the side streets of London viewing the aftermath of the Ripper's disgusting crimes right alongside Empress Vicky.
As always, Perry's characters are real people, fleshed out and feeling. Vicky is someone I would like to be friends with and her dilemma between duty and love is heart-wrenching and sweet.
I also enjoyed Vicky's relationship with her children as compared to her mother's relationship with Vicky and her siblings. One of the saddest parts for me was when Vicky laments her megalomaniac son, Willy (if you know your history, you will realize that Wily eventually becomes Kaiser Wilhelm). Reading Perry's books has prompted me to look deeper into British history, particularly the Victorian era. It is interesting to see how closely related so many European royals were or are to each other.
February 14, 2014
There's a lot to like in this historical romance featuring the daughter of Queen Victoria and a detective inspector investigating the Jack the Ripper murders.
Separated by class, drawn together by both mutual attraction and a shared sense of loneliness, Vicky and Thomas's relationship unfolds alongside some truly horrific murders.
I enjoyed the novel's solution to the Jack the Ripper case - it's as good an explanation as any for the serial murders.
I appreciated the layering in of historical fact. In particular, the role of the newspapers in whipping up the public's response was a nice touch. I also liked the role of class and class divisions in the book - I felt that the attitudes of the various characters to class were appropriate even where they might rub the reader wrong.
I did think that the younger princesses - Maud and Sophie - were a bit unfinished in this story. Their participation in the story needed a bit more conclusion to satisfy me - perhaps in future books?
See my complete review at To Each Their Own Reviews
Received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Separated by class, drawn together by both mutual attraction and a shared sense of loneliness, Vicky and Thomas's relationship unfolds alongside some truly horrific murders.
I enjoyed the novel's solution to the Jack the Ripper case - it's as good an explanation as any for the serial murders.
I appreciated the layering in of historical fact. In particular, the role of the newspapers in whipping up the public's response was a nice touch. I also liked the role of class and class divisions in the book - I felt that the attitudes of the various characters to class were appropriate even where they might rub the reader wrong.
I did think that the younger princesses - Maud and Sophie - were a bit unfinished in this story. Their participation in the story needed a bit more conclusion to satisfy me - perhaps in future books?
See my complete review at To Each Their Own Reviews
Received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2014
In the twilight year of Queen Victoria's reign numerous evils populate the industrial London fog. Jack has discovered a new hobby, terrifying the denizens of London, and the miasma of class and royalty swirls throughout the Empire. Victoria's dysfunction family adds to the gloom. Prince Edward is a suspect since his character is such as to raise suspicion. Victoria's recently widowed daughter has lost her husband, the German Kaiser and son Wilhelm does not make dowager hood appealing, so the former Empress returns to London to salvage the family name. Upon return she throws herself into the investigation, and journeys into the darkness of White Chapel, where a relationship develops with the chief investigator. Thus murder, mystery and romance create a Medusian knot. The plot is thickened by the loyalty of the investigator to the people of his district, and the fact that his wife left him for a semi-Royal. Who did it, and will love conquer all?
This is a wonderful tale of love, loyalty and conflict, and efforts to break the chains of class that bind. It is complex and carefully crafted, drawing you into layers of amazement. Well worth the read.
This is a wonderful tale of love, loyalty and conflict, and efforts to break the chains of class that bind. It is complex and carefully crafted, drawing you into layers of amazement. Well worth the read.
February 19, 2014
*ARC received for an honest opinion.
review at booknerdloleotodo.blogspot.com
I really enjoyed The Shadow Princess by Mary Hart Perry. I have to say beforehand that she takes a lot of creative liberties with the story of Jack the Ripper and Vicky, the oldest daughter of Queen Victoria. When the story begins Vicky is in mourning for the death of her husband. She is suddenly called back home to deal with family issues. One of these issues is the mystery behind Jack the Ripper. Thomas Edmondson was an interesting character. I thought he provided a good amount conflict and also a good contrast to the life of royalty. Thomas is the inspector behind the ripper’s death. After months of looking for him he is nowhere near. Vicky is involved when her nephew, notorious for his wild lifestyle is a suspect. I was intrigued by how the author would take all the different aspects of the story and make all of them work. I thought she was able to masterfully complete all the different aspects and still remain believable. I highly recommend this story, it is creative and intriguing.
February 8, 2014
I was excited to read Mary Hart Perry’s The Shadow Princess, the third in her series featuring Queen Victoria’s daughters, in large part because Vicky, the heroine of this book, has always fascinated me (too much time watching “Edward the King” on Netflix, I suspect). The book opens with Vicky mourning the death of her husband, the Emperor of Germany, and she receives a visit from her niece Maud, who begs her to come home to England. Jack the Ripper has just begun his reign of terror through Whitechapel, and Maud fears the worst, as the Metropolitan Police suspect that her brother Eddy, next in line for the British throne, could be Jack.
Vicky returns home and meets Detective Inspector Thomas Edmonson, who is investigating the Ripper, and finds herself coming back to life as she becomes more and more involved in investigating the case. She also can’t help but notice how attractive Edmonson is, even though he is a good decade younger than she is. I loved the fact that Vicky is 48 years old here, and not the typical romance novel heroine (where 29 is the new 21, etc.) Vicky and Thomas grow closer together as they investigate the murders, although Vicky’s involvement will place she and her nieces Maud and Sophie into danger as Jack continues his murder spree.
I admit I came to this book really wanting it to be a mystery novel instead of a romance—Empress Vicky and DI Edmonson solve murders!—especially since Perry handled the Ripper material so well that I think she could pull off the mystery genre too. I did have some problems with Vicky and Thomas’ romance. While I loved to see Vicky get her groove back, so to speak, there were times where she verges on what the reviewers over at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books call the “Too Stupid to Live” heroine: running off to Whitechapel despite having just yelled at her nieces for doing the same thing, following a reporter into the streets after Jack, fainting over corpses, and just happening to run Jack over with a carriage at just the right moment? There was also one occasion where a character used language that was grossly anachronistic (Macnaughten’s use of “give a sorry fuck”). I also could have done without Thomas’ angsty backstory, as it didn’t seem necessary to his emotional development.
All in all, however, Perry has a gift for keeping the plot moving, and I didn’t put my Kindle down until I had finished the story. I enjoyed watching the characters grow closer together and was truly creeped out (in a good way) by Perry’s take on Jack’s identity. I plan on checking out the first two books in the series as well, and hope that Perry continues with this series of novels.
Source: ARC from the publisher via NetGalley
Vicky returns home and meets Detective Inspector Thomas Edmonson, who is investigating the Ripper, and finds herself coming back to life as she becomes more and more involved in investigating the case. She also can’t help but notice how attractive Edmonson is, even though he is a good decade younger than she is. I loved the fact that Vicky is 48 years old here, and not the typical romance novel heroine (where 29 is the new 21, etc.) Vicky and Thomas grow closer together as they investigate the murders, although Vicky’s involvement will place she and her nieces Maud and Sophie into danger as Jack continues his murder spree.
I admit I came to this book really wanting it to be a mystery novel instead of a romance—Empress Vicky and DI Edmonson solve murders!—especially since Perry handled the Ripper material so well that I think she could pull off the mystery genre too. I did have some problems with Vicky and Thomas’ romance. While I loved to see Vicky get her groove back, so to speak, there were times where she verges on what the reviewers over at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books call the “Too Stupid to Live” heroine: running off to Whitechapel despite having just yelled at her nieces for doing the same thing, following a reporter into the streets after Jack, fainting over corpses, and just happening to run Jack over with a carriage at just the right moment? There was also one occasion where a character used language that was grossly anachronistic (Macnaughten’s use of “give a sorry fuck”). I also could have done without Thomas’ angsty backstory, as it didn’t seem necessary to his emotional development.
All in all, however, Perry has a gift for keeping the plot moving, and I didn’t put my Kindle down until I had finished the story. I enjoyed watching the characters grow closer together and was truly creeped out (in a good way) by Perry’s take on Jack’s identity. I plan on checking out the first two books in the series as well, and hope that Perry continues with this series of novels.
Source: ARC from the publisher via NetGalley
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2014
What can I say about Mary Hart Perry's new book The Shadow Princess?
To describe how I feel about this book, let me tell you a story: imagine that you have bought a jigsaw puzzle and the picture is some famous painting of somebody royal - lets say Empress Elisabeth of Austria also known as Sisi.
So you go home, open the box, let the pieces fall on a table and then you understand, that it's not just one puzzle, it's two sided puzzle and the other side is also some famous picture, that has many new modern interpretations - lets say it's da Vinci's Vitruvian Man.
Best place to assemble two sided puzzle is on class table, so you can see both sides.
Now you have your table and the pictures and you start to assemble them. But then you understand, that the Vitruvian Man isn't really just da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, it's partly the original but there are also some modern parts and same goes about Sisi's portrait as well. And then you find pieces that are clearly from those pictures but they are cut wrongly so they do not really fit into the puzzle, but they are from the pictures for sure.
So in a end you have assembled two pictures, both right and same time not right, both classic and same time modern interpretations and then there are those pieces that would be perfect, if they would have cut out correctly but they are obviously forced into the pictures.
All this allegory means that in the Shadow Princess we have "love story" of German Empress, Queen of Prussia and Princess Royal Victoria with inspector Thomas Edmondson and the horrible Whitechapel murder mystery.
The previous book by Mary Hart Perry Seducing the Princess was a good read be course even thought it was also about real life princess and about her real life husband, it didn't involve in their love story some very well known murder mystery.
But in The Shadow Princess the aging Princess is the one who solves the unsolved mystery. I understand that Jack the Ripper is kind of hot commodity at the moment and it would be interesting twist to let a member of the royal family to be the one who finds the killer, and not just a member of a royal family, but one of the princesses, but it felt too forced, too fictional.
At the end it felt more like farce than an interesting fictional love story with a murder mystery. It's sad!
To describe how I feel about this book, let me tell you a story: imagine that you have bought a jigsaw puzzle and the picture is some famous painting of somebody royal - lets say Empress Elisabeth of Austria also known as Sisi.
So you go home, open the box, let the pieces fall on a table and then you understand, that it's not just one puzzle, it's two sided puzzle and the other side is also some famous picture, that has many new modern interpretations - lets say it's da Vinci's Vitruvian Man.
Best place to assemble two sided puzzle is on class table, so you can see both sides.
Now you have your table and the pictures and you start to assemble them. But then you understand, that the Vitruvian Man isn't really just da Vinci's Vitruvian Man, it's partly the original but there are also some modern parts and same goes about Sisi's portrait as well. And then you find pieces that are clearly from those pictures but they are cut wrongly so they do not really fit into the puzzle, but they are from the pictures for sure.
So in a end you have assembled two pictures, both right and same time not right, both classic and same time modern interpretations and then there are those pieces that would be perfect, if they would have cut out correctly but they are obviously forced into the pictures.
All this allegory means that in the Shadow Princess we have "love story" of German Empress, Queen of Prussia and Princess Royal Victoria with inspector Thomas Edmondson and the horrible Whitechapel murder mystery.
The previous book by Mary Hart Perry Seducing the Princess was a good read be course even thought it was also about real life princess and about her real life husband, it didn't involve in their love story some very well known murder mystery.
But in The Shadow Princess the aging Princess is the one who solves the unsolved mystery. I understand that Jack the Ripper is kind of hot commodity at the moment and it would be interesting twist to let a member of the royal family to be the one who finds the killer, and not just a member of a royal family, but one of the princesses, but it felt too forced, too fictional.
At the end it felt more like farce than an interesting fictional love story with a murder mystery. It's sad!
February 28, 2014
This novel was more than I expected. Somehow it this short historically-based novel, Mary Hart Perry covers a lot of ground.
It all revolves around Queen Victoria’s family. In this particular novel, the focus is primarily on Princess Vicky, Empress of Germany. Her niece shows up to Germany in tow with some very scandalous news: the English Crown Prince is under suspicion – for murder!
This novel delves into the division between classes, the differences between royalty and “commoners.” It is a topic that is generally considered in bad taste for the time, but comes up quite a bit from several characters. It is a blunt, honest and real look at how your “station” in life really was.
It also gives valid insight into the times in which these women lived, with London all but up in arms trying to aid in finding the fiend stalking the streets and striking fear in the heart of all. The sensational fear that struck London with the Whitechapel murders, commonly known to be done at the hand of Jack the Ripper, is not to be taken lightly – and indeed, Perry does this period in time justice. No one feels safe, even on their own street.
In stark contrast to the luxury and sedate lifestyle of royalty, Inspector Thomas Edmunson is working the beat, a “copper.” He grew up in the dredge of the low-life end of the city, and he swears he won’t go back to it. He has dedicated his life to helping the people, and he refusing to give that up, even at the suggestion from a royal. He is a working man, and quite intrigued by Vicky’s requests and offers in aiding the police in pursuit and investigation of Jack the Ripper.
Perry has starkly shown the contrast between the two classes, and yet these characters do not quite fit the exact stereotypes one would assume. She has brought each character to life with his or her own faults, fears and assumptions, and it all makes for a wild ride of a read!
It all revolves around Queen Victoria’s family. In this particular novel, the focus is primarily on Princess Vicky, Empress of Germany. Her niece shows up to Germany in tow with some very scandalous news: the English Crown Prince is under suspicion – for murder!
This novel delves into the division between classes, the differences between royalty and “commoners.” It is a topic that is generally considered in bad taste for the time, but comes up quite a bit from several characters. It is a blunt, honest and real look at how your “station” in life really was.
It also gives valid insight into the times in which these women lived, with London all but up in arms trying to aid in finding the fiend stalking the streets and striking fear in the heart of all. The sensational fear that struck London with the Whitechapel murders, commonly known to be done at the hand of Jack the Ripper, is not to be taken lightly – and indeed, Perry does this period in time justice. No one feels safe, even on their own street.
In stark contrast to the luxury and sedate lifestyle of royalty, Inspector Thomas Edmunson is working the beat, a “copper.” He grew up in the dredge of the low-life end of the city, and he swears he won’t go back to it. He has dedicated his life to helping the people, and he refusing to give that up, even at the suggestion from a royal. He is a working man, and quite intrigued by Vicky’s requests and offers in aiding the police in pursuit and investigation of Jack the Ripper.
Perry has starkly shown the contrast between the two classes, and yet these characters do not quite fit the exact stereotypes one would assume. She has brought each character to life with his or her own faults, fears and assumptions, and it all makes for a wild ride of a read!
January 31, 2014
1888, just about a year after the death of German Emperor Frederick III, his widow is still in mourning. Princess Victoria, daughter of Queen Victoria of England, has let grief overcome her, until her niece, Princess Maude, visits with terrible news from the queen. A murderer is terrorizing London streets and Princess Victoria's nephew, Prince Eddy is a suspect. Victoria has been asked to come back to London to help deal with the press and hopefully clear her nephew's name. While she is in London, she enlists the help of Detective Inspector Thomas Edmondson to keep her up to date on the case.
Although this historical mystery was written purely as fiction, I liked that a lot of history was included. While Princess Victoria, or Vicky, was never involved with the investigation herself, her character and state of mind were perfect for her path in this story. Prince Eddy was factually a suspect in the Jack the Ripper case and I'm glad that this was included as an impetus for Vicky's involvement. I enjoyed the story from the Ripper's point of view. The author had a clear understanding for the Ripper's purpose, attitude and mental attributes. I actually wish that we could have more insight into this character's mind than a few short chapters! The ending was done brilliantly, the way that the Ripper was handled in the end was very creative while also coinciding with history as well as tying up the end of the story.
The Shadow Princess was received for free in return for an honest review.
See this book on blog tour from February 17th-24th at stephaniesbookreviews.weebly.com with a chance to win a digital copy!
Although this historical mystery was written purely as fiction, I liked that a lot of history was included. While Princess Victoria, or Vicky, was never involved with the investigation herself, her character and state of mind were perfect for her path in this story. Prince Eddy was factually a suspect in the Jack the Ripper case and I'm glad that this was included as an impetus for Vicky's involvement. I enjoyed the story from the Ripper's point of view. The author had a clear understanding for the Ripper's purpose, attitude and mental attributes. I actually wish that we could have more insight into this character's mind than a few short chapters! The ending was done brilliantly, the way that the Ripper was handled in the end was very creative while also coinciding with history as well as tying up the end of the story.
The Shadow Princess was received for free in return for an honest review.
See this book on blog tour from February 17th-24th at stephaniesbookreviews.weebly.com with a chance to win a digital copy!
March 4, 2014
Having read the first two books in this series, I had to read The Shadow Princess as well. This story revolves around an older Princess Royal, Vicky. It takes place after her husband has died and also involves Jack The Ripper.
Though all of Mary's novels are rooted in the history of Queen Victoria's daughters, this one is a bit more heavy of the fiction, while keeping the facts there. Don't call this historical fiction but rather alternate history.
For some that might be a little hard to deal with, but I simply remember that it is fiction and it is wonderfully written. Plus I like the thought of the Jack The Ripper case actually being solved.
Like her previous novels from this series Vicky gets a romance with the detective in charge of the Ripper case, though in this story the sparks between Empress Vicky and Thomas Edmondson isn't as hot as with her previous two novels.
I really enjoy The Shadow Princess, because it focused on Vicky after her husband had passed away. It isn't often that a book that is even a little bit romance oriented has the heroine in her middle years.
Once again, Mary has created a novel that is full of fact and fiction that will keep the pages turning until the very end.
Though all of Mary's novels are rooted in the history of Queen Victoria's daughters, this one is a bit more heavy of the fiction, while keeping the facts there. Don't call this historical fiction but rather alternate history.
For some that might be a little hard to deal with, but I simply remember that it is fiction and it is wonderfully written. Plus I like the thought of the Jack The Ripper case actually being solved.
Like her previous novels from this series Vicky gets a romance with the detective in charge of the Ripper case, though in this story the sparks between Empress Vicky and Thomas Edmondson isn't as hot as with her previous two novels.
I really enjoy The Shadow Princess, because it focused on Vicky after her husband had passed away. It isn't often that a book that is even a little bit romance oriented has the heroine in her middle years.
Once again, Mary has created a novel that is full of fact and fiction that will keep the pages turning until the very end.
February 8, 2014
An interesting read, but this may have been to big a stretch for even my imagination. The queen of England's daughter, who is now the king of Austria's mother, comes back to London in order to help the royal family with the Jack the Ripper murders as one of them may be implicated in it. You may understand why I had difficulties with it.
But apart from that, the story is very inventive and interesting. I took great pleasure in matching up what I know of the Ripper crimes with this novel and enjoyed the Detective Inspector.
But apart from that, the story is very inventive and interesting. I took great pleasure in matching up what I know of the Ripper crimes with this novel and enjoyed the Detective Inspector.
February 15, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. The author does such a good job of drawing you into the story. You feel like you are actually in London, searching for Jack the Ripper. I love the way this author uses the facts known of one of the most notorious serial killers know to man. The letters are real, and Mary Hart Perry takes her opinion of what happened and puts it all into a story.
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion and I honestly recommend this book
I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion and I honestly recommend this book
January 7, 2015
A quick, not-unpleasant read. A completely fictionalized take on the Jack the Ripper story. I was intrigued by the subject matter, but not wholly impressed with the actual story. It wasn't poorly written, just did not impress me as much as i had hoped it would. I enjoyed it, it just didn't "knock my socks off" in way.
**** this was a GoodReads giveaway, which in no way affected my reading or review
**** this was a GoodReads giveaway, which in no way affected my reading or review
March 2, 2015
I received this book from Goodreads. It was a enjoyable read, easy to get through as the chapters were shorter, so it seemed to move along. I did find the romance in the story a bit hard to believe and all of the characters were not well-developed. This would be a nice book to bring to the beach or on some other vacation.
November 13, 2014
I stayed up until 2am last night to finish this book. It sucked me in and made me want to google Queen Victoria's family and Jack the Ripper. Fabulous job with the setting and with the interesting characters.
August 3, 2016
It was a good book. However, I could have done without the chapters dealing with Maud and Vicky's daughter, otherwise I liked it. I received this book in a Good Reads Giveaway.
April 2, 2014
Review by: Caz
Review Rating: 3.5 Stars
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
Review Rating: 3.5 Stars
Link to Review: http://www.romantichistoricalreviews....
Read
March 11, 20153.3 stars. For a "Jack the Ripper...Romance?", it was actually not half bad, ha!
November 5, 2014
Okay read -- I liked the concept but I felt like the author couldn't decide if she was writing a young adult love story or adult thriller
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews