The Wounds That Linger: A Q&Z Regency Mystery

Q&Z Regency Mysteries #2

by Sandra Preisler, Taylor Preisler

In the second installment of the Q&Z Regency Mystery series, Quinton and Zoe must take on their most complex and chilling case yet.

When the savage murder of a dressmaker bears a striking resemblance to a series of murders spanning two decades—including Quinton’s own mother—Zoe Demas and Quinton Huxley join forces again to unmask the killer. As the two of them draw closer to the truth, as well as each other, things take a dark turn when one of their friends is arrested for the present killing. Now they, alongside the diverse cast of characters they’ve come to rely on, must race against time and the threat of the hangman’s noose to untangle a web of obsession, betrayal, and jealousy—all held together by a mysterious piece of red cloth.

This enthralling mystery promises to hold your attention until the last page as it asks the how far would you go for justice?


Early Reader's are loving the latest installment of the Q&Z Regency Cozy Mystery

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was a strong sequel in the Q&Z Regency Cozy Mystery series, it had everything that I was looking for from the first book.. can’t wait for more.” – Netgalley Reviewer

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Such a good book - I just couldn’t put it down! The writing made you feel like you were actually there, riding the roller coaster of emotions with the characters - horror, joy, terror, and love. I can’t wait to read the next installment in the series!” – Netgalley Reviewer

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “..I enjoyed this entry and hope there are more. And I would really like to know what happened to Zoe and her group..” – Netgalley Reviewer

Genres: Mystery, Fiction

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 12, 2024

Reviews

[Sharyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent second book in the series. Zoe Demas and her companion Mary have returned to London from 7 months in America. Her friend sends her a note to visit and asks for Zoe's help in finding her sister's killer, the girl who was killed in the first book.
Meanwhile, Quentin, the investigator who worked with her in the previous book has been drinking and not working at all, much to the consternation of his friends.
When another murder occurs that seems to be the same killer of Quentin's mother, the whole crew, including Bow Street runner John, as well as Charlie and Roy, come together to solve another murder.
Though there is a large cast of characters, each one is so finely drawn I feel I would recognize them in real life.
The mystery was also excellent, and there is not one, but 2 cliffhanger endings that already have me looking forward to the next book. Written by a mother daughter team, the descriptions of life at the time are finely drawn. I highly recommend you read the books in order, as the characters all progress in the books and the mystery is somewhat dependent on the first book.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the EARC. Also thanks to the Book whisperer fir offering me the chance to read it. The opinions are mine and I urge you to read the series.

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining mystery relationship listening 🎇🐕

This kindle ebook novel is from my Kindle Unlimited account book two of three

Zoe and Mary are gathering the team to investigate the case against Stuart. It becomes a mystery that leads to a Lord. They are at risk to become his next victims. But help shows up and the case is closed. Continued in the next book in the series. 😏😎👮

I would highly recommend this series and authors to readers of fast moving romantic family and friends relationships adventures thriller mystery novels 😯🤔 2025 👒🏰🌃

[Lori · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[aishareadsnrambles · Rating 4 out of 5]

BOOK: THE WOUNDS THAT LINGER
AUTHOR: SANDRA AND TAYLOR PREISNER
PUB DATE:
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REVIEW
Thanks to the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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I read and liked the first book in the series, and I picked this up the instant the ARC was available, and I didn't regret it all! It was so nice to read about Zoe, Quinton, their families and 'the tribe'. It didn't disappoint.
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The book was Kickstarted with a murder case similar to Quinton's mother's murder case. At first I was surprised that the case was being solved in the second book already, but it was okay. I liked the crime solving process, but I wanted more since it was a case that has weighed upon Quinton for so long. But, I was still surprised with the ending. There was twist at the end that I liked, but I was disappointed that it was nor exposed and the people didn't know what happened. At the end of the day, I'm glad that that chapter of Quinton's life is closed and I can wait to uncover the cliffhanger at the end!
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Zoe was a spoilt brat in the first series, but she has changed so much. Although, the change was already noticeable in the first book. It's really amazing to see how far she has changed for the better. She has more empathy and is working hard to make things better for the less privileged. Her intuition was priceless in this book too.
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I liked the tribe too, consisting of Mary, John, Charlie, Gwen. I don't know if I liked reading their POVs because I'm not used to it. But, it provided some needed depth. I liked their found family and how their diversity. One was half Indian, half black and they were all from the lower class.
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I wanted to see more of Zoe and Quinton's relationship, but there wasn't much development there. In a way, I understood it, Quinton had to ficus on something else. But, I hope to see a development there in the upcoming releases.
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I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be continuing this series.

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[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thank NetGalley and Book Whisperer for an advance reader copy of The Wounds That Linger. All opinions and comments are my own.

Zoe Demas, returned to England, is getting her life back together after a tumultuous year. Quinton Huxley, who figured prominently in the case that drove her away to America, is doing the same. (For this story, see The Ties That Divide, Sandra and Taylor Preisler’s first book in the series). And both are fighting the attraction to each other they discovered in that first book. But while that happens, readers will enjoy an exciting story that involves the resolution of the crime from the first book and a series of new murders that relate even further to the past.

The Preislers know how to set the stage for scenes that create tension and propel the story line forward, while showcasing characters; Zoe, Quinton, Zoe’s lady companion Mary, and the three friends of Quinton who are compatriots, and in one case, a suspect for the murders that are occurring. Zoe’s “hobby of investigating murders” is going to come in very handy, as the search for what is essentially a serial killer (although the term is never used in the book) is fraught with danger, socially -- Zoe must always be aware of her reputation -- and eventually, personally.

Be advised there’s a lot of angry people in this book. It’s almost hard to read, to get past all the anger, to get to the mystery plot. Readers almost need a trigger warning for all the anguish that everyone’s going through.

At the finish, we have final resolution (and learn the lengths that someone will go, to everyone’s sorrow), and continuing personal dilemmas for Zoe and Quinton. The Wounds That Linger offers up an engaging story with colorful, fully-realized characters, and a teaser surprise; a request for help from an unlikely source. That means more work, for Zoe Demas and Quinton Huxley, which I look forward to.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wounds that Linger by Sandra & Taylor Preisler
Q&Z Regency Mystery #2

Excellent addition to a wonderful series ~ Can’t wait for book three!

What I liked:
* Zoe Demas: French, escaped from France during the Revolution, raised by her French mother and Her English stepfather, has two younger half-siblings, curious, problem solver, spent time traveling with her uncle and companion, recently back in London
* Quinton Huxley: son of an actress who was murdered, never knew who his father was, investigator, bright, strong, good friend, caring, kind, protective, book at a low point when book begins – finds purpose in new case when Zoe returns
* The growing attraction between Zoe and Quinton and wondering how they will eventually manage their HEA
* The supporting characters that were there in the first book and are fleshed out more in this one
* Zoe’s mother and her stepfather and their understanding and support of one another, their family, and those they can help outside their family
* The intricate plot, perfect pacing, descriptions, setting, and character development
* The mystery of who killed Madame Amato and how finding her killer ties into the first book
* The twists and turns ~ there were a few and a big surprise near the end
* That the case is solved and no loose threads left regarding the serial killer
* Feeling a part of the story and thinking about what I would have done if in the shoes of some of the characters
* All of it…too many things to write them all down…including the hook at the end

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how difficult life was
* The justice system then and how difficult it must have been to get a “fair” trial

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookwhisperer for the ARC ~ This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the second novel in the Q&Z Regency Cozy Mystery series, readers rejoin Quinton Huxley and Zoe Demas for a new chilling and complex case: the murder of a dressmaker resembling a series of other murders over the last two decades, the victims of which include Quinton’s mother. Joining forces to catch this new and incredibly dangerous killer, readers follow along with the investigation with every twist and turn, including the arrest of one of their friends. With its cast of fantastic and diverse characters that Zoe and Quinton trust, readers must untangle a web of violence and deceit held together by a piece of red cloth before it is too late. With two incredible protagonists that readers are already familiar with, their continued partnership and collaboration is absolutely fantastic to follow during the mystery. The mystery itself is complex, well-written, and chilling, and the suspense and atmosphere of the novel are absolutely brilliant and immersive. The atmosphere and historical setting are really great and will draw readers into the story and mystery. With its excellent protagonists, complicated cast of characters, and compelling mystery, readers will love this new atmospheric instalment for a new historical mystery series in Regency England.

Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advance copy.

[virginia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must say, I had an arduous journey reading this book. It was a slow build, which often had me setting it down and picking another book to read. I don’t know if it is because I didn’t read the first book in the series, but I found myself lost in many places, especially as it appeared to jump around, which I found confusing. Although Lady Zoe and Quinton are well-written characters, and the period in history is one with which I am familiar, it was difficult to follow their storylines sometimes. I enjoyed how the author presented their different social statuses as an impediment to working together to solve murders. I felt a connection to Lady Zoe’s rebellion against societal expectations. Keeping track of the storyline was a struggle for me. The settings were vivid, but there appeared to be some repetition in both the narrative and the dialogue. However, I picked the book up again and read it to the end. I may buy the first book in the series to see if that makes a difference. I gave it a 3-star rating because of the slow build and the need to take notes to keep the story straight. Thanks to Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book as a free ARC. This review is voluntary and mine alone.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book written by this fabulous mother/daughter team. I should probably make sure to write a review for the first book. But this is a strong second book. Zoe returns to England after 7 months abroad along with her companion Mary. Upon her return, she tries to figure out what happened to Quentin, but he remains aloof until he is asked to help in finding the killer of Zoe's friend Mabel, whose sister was murdered and the young man she was seeing was sentenced for her murder. Mabel doesn't believe that he did and wants Zoe to look into - which means getting Quentin involved. Why has Quentin escaped into alcohol? Because this murder reflects the murder of his mother years before. And no matter how hard he has tried, he can't solve it. If you haven't read the first book; Quentin was the son of an actress and an unacknowledged father. But Quentin may have ties to the nobility. As another woman is murdered with the MO, the tribe ( as Zoe's Mother calls them) try to figure out who. The cast of characters go from Mary to Quentin's friends, who all assist in them finding the killer and when they do, there are even more questions. Needless to say I am looking forward to the next book, so many questions!!!!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is now 1811. Lady Zoe Demas, who escaped with her mother from the French Revolution, has just returned to London after several months in America accompanied by her brother Sebastion, her companion, Mary Fletcher, and her dog Brutus along with his caretaker Gwen, a former street urchin.

Her friend Mabel Anderson, whose sister Margot was murdered, has asked her to call and then asks Zoe for help finding the killer.

Zoe turns to her former investigative partner, Quinton Huxley, who apparently has gone off the rails while Zoe was gone, because the murder seems to be similar to that of Quinton's mother ten years ago.

One of Quinton childhood friends has been accused of the murder. Quinton and hiss friends, Gwen's brother Ezra, and Zoe and her barrister stepfather work together to clear the accused and find the real murderer.

As with the previous book "The Ties That Divide," I enjoyed this entry and hope there are more. And I would really like to know what happened to Zoe and her group during their American interlude.

[Kiaran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in this Regency historical mystery series featuring Lady Zoe Demas and Quinton Huxley. This both books should be read in sequence to best enjoy them…although this one would be okay as a standalone. Zoe’s aristocratic father was killed in the French Revolution and she and her mother fled to England. When they arrived, they had a very difficult time but eventually her mother married a Lord who was also well respected barrister. Zoe chafes at the rules of society and is righteous and fearless. Quinton’s actress mother was murdered and he grew up on the streets. He’s become an investigator and the two reluctantly work together to solve murders. In this book, a string of murdered young ladies, which has striking similarities with the murder of Quinton’s mother, points to a serial killer in London. Could it be one killer, if so, could the killer stalk Zoe when she gets too close to identifying him? As Zoe and Quinton work on solving the case, they continue to grow closer, despite their very different social status. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC of this book.

[HappyBookWorm2020 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a murder mystery set in the Regency period of England, the second book in the series. While I was able to follow the story, I do recommend reading the books in order. I also found it helpful to make a list of the characters and what they did.

Zoe and her companion Mary had just returned from seven months in the United States and had barely settled in at the house in London when they were involved once again in murder - the murder of women. One of the mysteries is how the killer selected the women - some are prostitutes but not all. Several people are involved in the investigation: Zoe and her companion Mary, Quentin the investigator, and a Bow Street Runner, among others. Quentin's mother had been murdered in a similar fashion years before, so this is personal to him. I enjoyed this book. One thing that made it stand out to me, was that I could not guess the killer at all. It came as a complete surprise, and also made me aware of how apt the title was.

I received an e-arc of this book from Book Whisperer. It was a pleasure to read and review.

[Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This volume focuses more on Quinton. We learn more about his past, current demons, and see him growing as person. Zoe and Quinton work on their relationship as well and I just love them. They seem to really care and respect one another. But my favorite character from the first book is part of a lot of controversy in this book, Rory. I loved that we learned so much more about him in this book. The mystery was interesting also. It had me guessing so much, I did not know who it was or why until it was being spelled out for me on the pages of the book. My only issue is there are a too many POV. I don't mind dual but it seemed that there at least 5 if I am not mistaken and it because difficult sometimes to try to remember who was telling us the story at that point. I am hooked and can't wait for the next one. Thank you again NetGalley and to the Publisher for the opportunity to read this story in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly, I didn’t care for the beginning of the book and almost put it down. There was a time jump and it felt like we missed out on important information that I think another book could have been written about. Then as the story started in the present, it still felt rushed to explain what we missed. Luckily I stuck with it and then it got much better as Zoe, Quinton, and friends started to work on the new mystery. It felt more focused on Quinton than Zoe, compared to the first book, which was fine. I definitely enjoyed this book more than the first one and am interested to find out what the new mystery Zoe’s cousin brings her is.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a diverse group of characters in this book! I enjoyed the fact that they came from different social groups, it really added interest to the story. Two of the main characters are Lady Zoe and Quinton Huxley. Zoe is a French lady escaping with her mother from the revolution and finds it difficult to conform to society’s expectations. Quinton is an inquiry agent and they have worked together in the past. There s a murder mystery to solve and this leads them to work together again. Some mysteries are solved in this story but some are ongoing. There may also be a beginning of a romance or two. I hadn’t read the first in this series but I will look out for the next one, and I am tempted to read the first. I found this to be an engaging read. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Patsy Fine · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Intriguing Story Line

Its the ongoing storyline of this series that makes it worthy of five stars. Besides the intriguing characters that build with each book, even the supporting characters are important. Even though the setting is a different time and place, even the supporting characters are are important and realistic to the weave the author makes through each of the major and minor actors, such that the reader experiences as though inside the story rather than as a witness to it.

[Darlene Golbitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Courtesy of The Book Whisperer and Netgalley, I received the ARC of The Sounds That Linger by Sandra and Taylor Priesler. This is the second book in this British Regency mystery series, set in 1811. Having read the first novel, I think you could read this without having done so. The information given brings everyone together. Quinton and Zoé take charge of this murder mystery, leading the investigation and their group of cohorts as they work on the clues and the solution to this case. Very well written!

[Mbsuther · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Final Answers

The second of the series really takes the events that ended the first (spoiler alert) and draws up the conclusions. I will go no farther except to say I was glad that it worked out this way. The characters are always the main focus for me as they can be fit into any storyline. This author does very well with the characters even though certain traits are said over and over. The twists at the end were expected, but were weaved in very well. I am looking forward to the next read. A 4.6 out of 5 rating

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zoe and Quinton are once again investigating a death. A dressmaker is dead. The details of her death is similar to other deaths over the last decade or two. All the deaths are of people that are not nobility so the search for the killer is low priority. Then one of Quinton's friends is arrested in the case. Zoe and Quinton are determined to prove him innocent.

I enjoy this series. Good characters and well thought out plot. It did keep the pages turning.

[Avril Hemingway · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written book with a large set of characters making the story interesting and intriguing. The characters are likeable and so well written and the era well researched. The mystery was also complex and while some things are resolved there is not one, but 2 cliffhanger endings that make you desperate for the next book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great suspense novel. It takes place in the early 1800's in London. The setting and characters are realistic. The issues that the characters are dealing with stem from the class system. Depending on your class, you are either good or bad. The lead character has a level of freedom, because of class, but that is hindered because of being female. One of her male friends warns her of those limits. Her friends are a mix of society levels. The end will probably make you scream!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing series

As a fan of historical mysteries, I love finding a new series that captures my imagination. The characters in the Q&Z mysteries are refreshing and unique. Each book leaves you satisfied at the resolution but wanting the series to continue. Having devoured the first two books, I am the third will quickly follow.

[Sperry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Compelling cast of complex, unusual characters with an intriguing mystery plot. I enjoyed both books

I recommend reading the books in order to understand how the unusual group of characters come together to solve deadly crimes. Zoe and Quinton assemble their "tribe" from homeless children to working class adults in a way unusual for a Regency plot.

[Faye C Maxfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent 2nd mystery and a great wrap up

Enjoyable and very true to the time period it is set in. The various characters are being developed slowly and believably as the story moves along. Perhaps the authors should include a red herring or be a bit less obvious when introducing the villain.

[Ash Laverty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book - I just couldn’t put it down! The writing made you feel like you were actually there, riding the roller coaster of emotions with the characters - horror, joy, terror, and love. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in the series!
5 stars out of 5 ⭐️

[Kathi Beecher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic!

The Preislers have done it again. I loved the basis of the story. Intriguing, and inventive. The characters are great and play off each other well and realistically. I highly recommend this series and can’t wait for book three! I think you’ll enjoy the adventure.

[Michele M. Sales · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great series

I was delighted to find a new series to read. Well written. Fascinating characters with plenty of depth. Back stories galore, but not so many you lose track overnight. I look forward to more.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

I found this second in series even stronger and better than the initial outing.

Love the characters. Great ensemble cast. Good plot development and world-building.

Hoping for more in this series.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story! (Where's #3??)

I've thoroughly enjoyed reading these 2 books. So much so that I have read them twice now waiting on number 3. I sure hope it's coming soon!!

[Диана Веселинова · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5*