A Rather Peculiar Poisoning

by Chrystal Schleyer

An engagement celebration at a turn-of-the-century manor takes a deadly turn, and everyone becomes a suspect.

Twin brothers Easton and Weston are both in love with their childhood best friend Eloise. But headstrong Eloise prefers the younger brother, Wes, which is why she is heartbroken when, quite unexpectedly, Wes proposes to an heiress, and Eloise finds herself engaged to Easton—the twin she cannot stand.

Then, during a week of feasting and hunting to celebrate the engagements, Wes is poisoned. Murmurs of nightshade slip through the manor, and everyone seems to have a motive.

Was it Della Drewitt—the heiress reluctant to marry Wes? Or did Easton decide killing his brother was the only way to secure Eloise’s affections? Or was it the housemaid Violet, Wes’ previous lover?

As guests turn into suspects, attempts to kill Wes become more relentless than the storms churning the estate—who wants him dead, and why?

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Thriller, Audiobook, Cozy

288 pages, Paperback

Published September 2, 2025

About the author

Chrystal Schleyer lives in South Carolina with her husband and children. Tucked away in a little black house on an old hay field, she happily lives in the middle of nowhere.

When not writing or reading, she can be found outside with her ever growing number of animals or scouring the shelves of the nearest thrift store.

Reviews

[Erin Larson-Burnett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, let me get this out of the way first: what?! wow.

I have been scouring my shelves for a mystery that truly catches me by surprise, and this one FINALLY hit the mark. I guessed a lot of things, but I never could have predicted that ending. Never ever. I was blown away.

Really, the beginning was fantastic; the setting drew me in, the tangle of romantic prospects and secrets kept me hooked, and it was impossible to stop reading until about the 40% mark, at which point things started to flatten out a little and get really repetitive, especially Eloise's chapters. I thought the multiple perspectives were done pretty well, though sometimes the tones were too similar and I found myself wanting for more of the girls' backstories.

There are SO many red herrings. I can't even mention them because everything played a part in some small way. My suspicions repeatedly were turned on their head, torn apart and reassembled, and by the climax I was confused in the best way and desperate to know WHO DID IT.

Really, really good. The writing style was lovely and easy to read, and the epilogue seems to set up for a sequel, or at least a spinoff, which I will be greedily awaiting!!

Thank you to the publisher for the review copy!

[Angie Boyter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything I like in a mystery---good plot, characters, writing… and a cat!
Whodunits are probably my favorite genre for fiction, and I have read so many of them over the years that too often these days my reaction tends to be “been there, read that”. I still persist, and occasionally I encounter one that reminds me how enjoyable they can be!
The setting is a celebration party for twin brothers who have both become engaged. It is set in 1910 in a large mansion with a number of servants in addition to the families of the spouses-to-be. As we get to know the characters it seems that just about everyone would be happier if someone else were out of the picture . Of course, readers know there will be a murder… but who will be the victim… and when? The plot of A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is clever and certainly kept me interested and guessing long before the actual murder occurs.
The characters were also done well. They seemed very human and believable, and I could understand both their desires and their resentments. One character was NOT human but certainly believable, and that was Tux the cat!
Equally impressive was the good writing. Like many books in this genre, the perspective switches among the characters, which is often done in a confusing manner, but in A Rather Peculiar Poisoning each chapter’s heading is the name of the point-of-view character for that chapter… except the first. Hmmm. I highlighted a number of paragraphs just because I thought they were so well written. There were a lot of nice little details and believable quirks. One I especially liked was how Eloise, who is facing a lot of questions as she anticipates joining the new family, regularly confides in her “oldest, dearest friend”, nearby Lake Lammore .
Periodically throughout the book I decided I had figured out the big question, but I was always wrong! The ending was clever and credible, and the final clue, which is not explained until the Epilog, is one I did not see but certainly should have!
I am looking forward to this author’s next book!
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Harper Collins.

[Rachel Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Literally one of the best books I’ve ever read! The twists had me constantly guessing what would happen next (but never guessing correctly)! It’s brilliant. Cannot wait for this author’s next book! Legitimate genius!

[Jill · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was grateful to be provided an audiobook copy by NetGalley in order to leave an honest review. Unfortunately, this book is not one to which I will return. Part of that is because the marketing is misleading: the murder in the description doesn't happen until 95% of the way through. The plot twist is obvious from the beginning, the characters are largely unsympathetic and often downright detestable, and this is, without question, not a mystery. It is instead a family drama (primarily between identical twin brothers and the woman they love) that kicks into high gear during a single weekend. The POV moves among multiple characters and time periods, which puts the onus on the reader to remember who is talking, when they are, and how that relates to the current book. It feels like too much. The best part of this audiobook was narrator Susie Riddell. Riddell does the best she can with an overcooked, over-twisted plot that ultimately ends on a cliffhanger that doesn't make sense, except to continue what one assumes will be a series. Thank you to NetGalley for this advance copy.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

OK--So this was eerily familiar with 2 grown men (instead of 3) who are wealthy and are playing games... (The last book I read was 3 grown men playing games... with lives.)
In this one, we have two brothers (twins), Easton and Weston, and a girl (Eloise, aka Ellie) who has known them both her whole life. Although she's in love with one, she is expected to marry the other.

And so it begins....
One guy is somewhat likable. The other... well, I had no use for him, whatsoever...

And, there's a little sister (Lucy) who is challenged, and challenging. And, the older brother states that once he takes over the leadership role (when their father has passed) he is going to send her outside the home to get help, because, they CANNOT help her here. And Ellie is appalled!

We go through the entire book with POV perspectives, which I myself found very repetitive. (I kept thinking that the book somehow re-wound, as I'd hear the same thing I just listened to all over again... and then I realized that it was Ellie speaking, and then one of the maids giving the same perspective from her viewpoint.) It was honestly a bit confusing...

But, the turmoil and heartache that came through the book was remarkable and unwavering... and so, I stayed tuned! And I am so happy that I did, because by the end... I was gobsmacked!!!!
Mouth. Hanging. On. The. Floor!!

Solid 4 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book for me!!

#ARatherPeculiarPoisoning by @ChrystalSchleyer and narrated by @SusieRiddell.

This one has already been released, but I was lucky enough to get an ARC of the audiobook recently! So, look 👀 for it on shelves now!!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #HarlequinAudio for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Liz Dzwonczyk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this would be better than it was. Fun premise, but some weird gothic themes that seemed out of place. Mystery was well done although I was ready for it to be over way before it was.

[Shelby Goodman · Rating 5 out of 5]

So proud of my friend for this stellar debut novel! It’s everything you want it to be in a whodunnit mystery - a great setting, multiple viewpoints and interesting characters, and tons of breadcrumbs and intrigue along the way to keep you guessing. And an ending that will surprise you! Thank you for the advanced reader copy - I loved my stay at Asquith Manor.

[Darcia Helle · Rating 3 out of 5]

A RATHER PECULIAR POISONING is a historical mystery that would make a great movie.

We have lots of characters with an onslaught of entangled relationship drama. I didn’t find any of the characters likable, but they certainly were interesting. The mystery will keep you guessing because almost everyone involved has a motive to murder someone else.

Susie Riddell does a great job with the audiobook narration. If you tend to listen to audiobooks while multitasking, be aware that you need to pay close attention at first in order to keep all the characters straight.

*Thanks to HQ Audio (#HiveInfluencer) for the free audiobook download!*

[Nancyreadsalotofbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok, this was fantastic! I had so much fun listening to this historical mystery fiction. The narration was perfection.
It felt like the who done Bridgerton version it but make it gothic vibes.
I can’t say I loved any of the characters, but I think that was the point to keep us guessing. Which by the way..I did not.

Thank you to Harper audio for the alc.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was the perfect transition book for me to get into the fall spirit! A great mystery historical fiction story that made me feel like I was transported into this crazy manor trying to figure out what in the world is going on!

I dont read mystery/thriller books often, but I really enioy it when I cant pin point exactly what happened or see the plot twists coming from a mile away and this book was exactly that!

If you are looking for a mystery historical fiction, you need to pick this one up!

Set to be released on Sept 2nd!

Thank you Harlequin audio for the early listening copy! All thoughts are my own

[Emily Nichols · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book in exchange for a review. I really liked this book. It was an easy read and I didn’t want to put it down. The story kept me guessing at who did it and told the character’s stories really well.

[Freya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come..

[Jessica Webber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was surprised by this book. I guess just because of it being more historical, I didn't expect it to be so fast paced. I was pleasantly surprised! There was constantly something happening. I will admit that sometimes it was almost too much for me just because there were so many different characters and POVs. It was sometimes hard to keep up. However, it was a great story and the ending was unexpected and so twisty!

The narrator was wonderful and gave life to the characters. I really enjoyed it!

[Winnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

[Leisa Moghaddam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oooo! THIS was a good one! LOVED it, didn't even see the end coming! Can't wait to read more of her stuff.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really impressive debut. Intriguing puzzle, well written and excellent setting

[Madison Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW: HOLY CRAP... this book blew me away! This mystery thriller was a masterclass in twists, tangled relationships, and, best of all, poison. It had everything I crave in a whodunit: a sharp, compelling plot, characters with layered motives, and surprises lurking around every corner. I was hooked from the first page, constantly guessing and second-guessing as the story pulled me deeper... and of course never guessing right! The writing was stunning and utterly engaging. This book kept me perched on the edge of my seat until the very last page.

Tropes: Twin brothers, a poison greenhouse, poisoning mystery, entangled secrets, house drama, love triangles, and engagements

[Sydney Victorson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is an incredibly fun and cozy mystery. I really liked the entire setting of the book. This turn of the century manor holds many secrets in its walls, and you never know who could be just around the corner watching and listening to you.

Wes and Easton are a whole mess. I love them as characters, but we all have to admit the way these boys deserved a couple smacks throughout the years. I found the romance in this book interesting as well, given that Della (who I was expecting to be THE main character) was hardly part of the romance at all despite her impending marriage to Wes. Instead, Della functions much more like our Sherlock Holmes or perhaps our Poirot. She spearheads any investigation into the happenings at the manor, while the twins (Wes and Easton) are in a battle over the affections of a girl named Eloise, their childhood best friend set to marry Easton despite her desires.

I will say I caught a few hints here and there as to the end of the book, but I somehow still didn’t get everything completely correct. This is definitely a book where your brain will be working, but it remained a very cute and cozy murder mystery.

Thank you The Hive and Harlequin Audio for the early review copy of A Rather Peculiar Poison. All opinions are my own.

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was incredibly juvenile and read more like YA. It was far too predictable and none of the characters were likable. The only thing that kept me hooked was the multiple POVs and timelines because they muddied your memory.

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: A Rather Peculiar Poising
Author: Chrystal Schleyer
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Susie Riddell
Publisher: Harlequin Audio
Genre: Mystery/Historical Fiction
Pub Date: September 2, 2025
My Rating: 4.2 Stars
Pages: 302

I was drawn to this when I read one review mentioned this had the vibe of Downton Abbey with upstairs/downstairs characters… With that - I knew I’ was in!

Time Period; 1910 ~ Story starts with an engagement celebration,
Story told from the POV of the upstairs and downstairs characters – each it told from a different characters POV – I like that the chapter heading also gives the name of the character. As there are many all with some kind of drama!!

Easton and Weston Asquich are twenty-two year old twin brothers and although the look alike they are opposites like their names East vs West. The twins are both in love with Eloise a childhood best friend.
Eloise fell in love with Weston many years ago. He admits he loves her as well since he is the second son he is not heir to and needs Money to make sure his little sister – fifteen year old Lucy has proper care. She has issues and the dad plus Easton believe she needs morel care than they can provide. Weston plans to propose to Della Durlett an heiress. Her wealth can assure that Lucy won’t be taken away. Thus Eloise finds herself engaged to Easton—the twin she doesn’t like.

The engagement celebration is held in the Asquith’s Manor. It is large and can easily handle the many who will be attending - families of the spouses-to-be as well as a number of servants.

Speaking of servants story switches to a chapter regarding Sadie Fisher the “Cook’s Assistant”.
The cook is her aunt and instructs her to go to greenhouse and pick huckleberries as they will be used for the evening’s dessert. When she returns to the kitchen, her aunt immediately recognizes that the berries are not huckleberries but Nightshade which does look like the berries she was requested to gather only Nightshade is poison. Her aunt tells her she went to the wrong greenhouse and went to the ‘Poison Garden’ which should have been locked. She tells her to take the proper key and go lock the door. As she is locking the door Weston approaches her. He is taken by her beauty. She tries to get away stating she knows he is engaged. However, he kisses her. What?
During the evening celebration Wes is poisoned. Murmurs of Nightshade are throughout the manor,
Wes is alive but ill. It seems he was spotted with Sadie. Might this be a punishment? Or jealousy? Etc.
Actually whodunit this almost murder kept me guessing. It seems several have a motive-it seems Wes has a playboy and there is another servant Violet whom he was interested in.
But wait he isn’t the mystery – What happened to the beloved servant Betty? Was her accident really an accident or was it murder? Aww the plot gets thicker!

As the story continues and we get to know the many characters and they sure kept me suspicious as well as interested.

The ending left me with a hint there might be a Book #2 – Count me in!

Thank You to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 2, 2025.

[Kátia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

I'd been circling A Rather Peculiar Poisoning for months, and when I finally got it in my hands, I couldn't wait to press play.

A gothic mystery set in a manor at the turn of the century? A toxic love triangle involving twin brothers? A whisper of scandal, shadow, and suspicion? Yes, please—my curiosity didn't stand a chance.

This story wastes no time establishing its dark undercurrent. At the centre of it all are twins Easton and Weston, and their childhood friend Eloise—bound togerher by history, longing, and more than a little dysfunction. When Weston is suddenly poisoned, the veneer cracks, motives multiply, secrets slither out, and every corridor of the manor seems to hold its breath.

The atmosphere is the novel's greatest triumph. It's moody, intimate, and just eerie enough to keep you glancing over your shoulder. Schleter crafts a setting that feels lifted straight from a fog-drenched stage with gilded edges, echoing halls, and tension fucked into every shadow. The multiple POVs add a layer of intrigue, offering glimpses into each character's fractured loyalties and private thoughts.

Still, as compelling as the setup is, I never quite connected emotionally with the cast. The characters—interesting as they were—remained a bit one-dimensional for me, more archetype than flesh and bone. The writing style, too, leaned younger than I'd expected; despite the adult setting, it carried a YA cadence that occasionally pulled me out of the immersion. Absolutely fine for readers who like the tone, it's just not my personal sweet spot.

The mystery, though? Cleverly woven. Every time I felt sure I had the culprit pegged, Schleyer nudged me in another direction. And the ending managed to surprise me. A reveal both earned and well-painted, without relying on theatrics.

I listened to this on audiobook, and Susie Riddell was a highlight. Her narration added warmth and texture, smoothing out edges where the pacing wavered and pulling me deeper into the story.

Fast paced, atmospheric, and entertainingly twisted, A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is a bingeable gothic treat. Perfect for readers craving mystery, a touch of melodrama, and an estate filled with secrets waiting to be unearthed.

**Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.**

[Tierney Linton · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engagement party turns deadly in A Rather Peculiar Poisoning by Chrystal Schleyer.

Twin brothers Easton and Weston are celebrating their engagements with a lavish weekend at their estate. Della Drewitt, a wealthy heiress, is betrothed to Weston, money for him and a well-established name for her.

Easton, on the other hand, is engaged to Eloise. Eloise grew up with the brothers, but she has a secret of her own. Eloise is in love with Weston, only agreeing to marry Easton to protect their little sister.

All is going well with their first night at the estate until Weston is poisoned, not for the first time. Weston seems to be living on borrowed time, and no one knows who could be seeking his death. With suspects at every turn, the past comes back to life, and more questions are found. Can the attacker be discovered before they complete their goal of killing Weston?

Historical mysteries are some of my favorite books. I love stepping back in time to solve the mysteries, without the benefit of today’s technologies. Schleyer’s writing was amazing. Easy to read while still keeping you steeped in the time period. It was very interesting to read the multiple perspectives in the book, allowing the reader to put more of the puzzle pieces together while still keeping you guessing.

I was surprised by how much this story relied on relationship drama. At times, it almost felt like it was more of a soap opera than a mystery. I also struggled with the timeline jumps. First, you would be in the present, then three months prior, then present, then three years prior. It made it very hard to follow the character’s feelings and their knowledge. However, Schleyer is such an excellent writer that he overcame some of these problems I found in the novel.

A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is a twisting and turning historical mystery that keeps you guessing long after its ending.

**REVIEW FOR NOVELSALIVE.COM**

[Alyssa Reads and Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is a fast paced, classic house party mystery. Chrystal Schleyer manages tons of characters’s POVs while the plot twists and red herrings keep readers guessing about what’s up next.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In May 1910, twins Easton and Weston Asquith are hosting a house party to celebrate their respective engagements. Easton, as the older twin, is set to become lord of the manor upon his father’s death. Easton is engaged to their lifelong friend Eloise, who’s actually in love with Weston. And Weston is engaged to heiress Della, whose mother wants her to marry an old money name. There’s also housemaid Violet, who’s been having an affair with Weston, and Sadie, the new kitchen maid who’s just trying not to mess up. But when Weston’s poisoned at the first night’s dinner, the motives and accusations fly, and plot twist after plot twist follow.

This book has tons of twists and turns as the plot races along. While I wouldn’t call many of the characters likable, the mystery is an enjoyable puzzle. I figured out where the story was going, but it was still fun to see how the author ultimately put all the pieces together. I also liked the way the author managed so many POVs while not giving any plot points away too soon.

One note: this book’s tagline is that it’s “Bridgerton meets Knives Out.” No. It’s set in 1910, and has far more in common with Downton Abby than a regency romance series with HEAs all around.

A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is an entertaining historical house party mystery. If you are a fan of a forced proximity story with tons of motives and plot twists to go around, you’ll have a good time with this story.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tori Miranda · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 Audiobook Review: A Rather Peculiar Poisoning by Chrystal Schleyer
📖 Narrated by: Susie Riddell
✨ Thank you Harlequin Audio & Netgalley for my ALC!

Chrystal Schleyer’s A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is a refined mix of historical drama and classic whodunit charm. Set in 1910 at an opulent lakeside estate, the novel vividly captures the elegance and suspense of the Edwardian era with precise detail. Schleyer draws readers into an immersive world of wealth, secrets, and social ambitions, where every guest seems to hold something unspoken. From the very first pages, the tone is delightfully suspenseful — part Downton Abbey, part Knives Out — with a hint of gothic mystery woven through its candlelit corridors.

What truly distinguishes Schleyer’s work is its cast of intricate, multidimensional characters. Narrated from various perspectives, the story uncovers hidden motives and fractured relationships beneath the refined veneer of high society. Each point of view enhances the mystery, giving readers multiple angles to solve the puzzle. The writing is elegant and engaging, blending sharp wit with emotional complexity, while the pacing maintains a compelling flow without rushing.

Without revealing any plot twists, A Rather Peculiar Poisoning is a deeply atmospheric mystery that appeals to readers who enjoy suspense combined with social drama. The story explores themes of appearances, ambition, and the price of secrecy, all woven into a cleverly twisty plot. Enthusiasts of historical mysteries, featuring an ensemble cast and numerous red herrings, will appreciate this clever and engaging book.

Initially posted on BookshelfbyTori on instagram!

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Chrystal Schleyer is a great writer. I listened to this on audio and the narrator Susie Russell really did a great job herself. I am not sure how to summarize my thoughts. This story has a decidedly dark tone and also the most toxic love triangle I have ever encountered in a book. The characters are round and believable. Eloise, Weston, and Easton have so much history together that it felt a little hard to feel like I was in Eloise’s head getting her perspective and feeling some sort of connection to her character, but over time that changed and I felt comfortable within her pov as it came up.

Sadie is a super sweet and morally black and white character. Lockland has great thoughts on what love means and was a very upfront character as well. To be honest, with my overall enjoyment I don’t see myself continuing on with this series. I felt as connected to one character in their pov as I did for any other pov,. This means the character who continues on with hints for book 2 is not feeling interesting/compelling enough in it of herself for me to continue. I don’t think I am ever in the mood for something with a darker tone and cozy mysteries are way more my thing.

In conclusion, I can say this story was done well and I think if anyone likes the idea of a case study on the human mind and historical fiction mysteries with a darker tone, this could be for you. The mystery was compelling enough for me to keep reading so that speaks for itself! I would say also someone needs to not care about there being a decent amount of blood throughout the story in order to like this one (although I wouldn’t say this is gory.)

[MizzyRed · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I know, is if I were ever to get an invitation to that house, I would definitely not be attending! So much backstabbing (sometimes literally! or at least shooting anyways), and everyone wants something, or someone. Such a twisty mystery and so many red herrings that I even suspected the cat! The way it jumps back and forth in time to momentous times between the twins and Eloise gave them a bit more depth than some of the other characters that I kept getting confused about at first (e.g. Sadie and Violet and their meetings with Weston). Though that depth has quite a bit of darkness and love all mixed up in a potent mix it is not surprising how the bodies stack up at that house. I did feel sorry for Della as it seems like she was dropped into a lake of piranhas when her mother decided she was going to marry Weston.

I will admit, I did not know how this momentous visit of fiancés for Easton and Weston would turn out, how many would be left standing, and who would have the best scheme to come out on top. Their sister, Lucy, also kept everyone on their toes. It was quite surprising and while the ending (before the epilogue) seemed a bit abrupt, it does leave it open just a bit so that maybe justice might be served properly. But I do applaud the schemers who definitely had to change things up due to all the other plans going on at the same time.

This was a twisty mystery fun audiobook to listen to. The narrator, Susie Riddell, did a wonderful job in bringing these scheming characters and their unforgettable stay at the manor by Lake Lammore.

[Tales Untangled · Rating 5 out of 5]

My thanks for the ARC goes to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing | Park Row. I'm voluntarily leaving a review.

Genre: Mystery, Romance Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Historical Mystery
Spice Level: Nothing on the page
Format: Multiple POVs

A RATHER PECULIAR POISONING, a dark mystery, surprised me about 1,000 times!

I never knew which way this story was going! That is a fabulous thing.

It was set up so well, but the twists were amazing. I really can't say to much because I want you to experience it first hand without preconceived notions. It surprised me and surprised me again.

There are several main characters: twin brothers, a sister on the spectrum, the neighbor woman who is engaged to one brother, the woman come to become engaged to another brother (and her mother), a maid who is in love with one brother, and the twin's father and their mother who has died. Each one of these interweave in unexpected ways.

Hope on the train and enjoy the creepy and twisty ride. This book is perfect for thriller and mystery readers. I will be surprised if you guessed all the twists, but they are set up very well, and you'll see it in hindsight. Even when you think you see the direction, it changes. :)

Happy reading!

[Sheri Strba-Brozovich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Twin brothers Easton and Weston are in love with their childhood friend, Eloise—but Eloise’s heart has always belonged to Wes. When he suddenly becomes engaged to a wealthy heiress, Eloise is shocked to find herself betrothed instead to Easton, the brother she can’t stand. During a week of celebrations, Wes is poisoned, and suspicion quickly spreads. From a reluctant fiancée to a jealous twin to a spurned former lover, everyone seems to have a motive. As danger mounts and secrets unravel, the question becomes not just who wants Wes dead, but why.

This book is morbid—and I mean that in the best way. I love a good early-1900s murder mystery, and this one delivered plenty of shocking twists and grisly moments.

At first, I felt like something was missing. I kept waiting for that one big moment, and when it finally came, it did not disappoint. The story is packed with drama, secrets, and unexpected turns. You’re constantly second-guessing who’s who between the brothers, what they’re hiding, and when the next revelation will strike.

Overall, it’s a dark, twisty ride full of mystery and suspense.

Thank you Harlequin Audio for the ARC.

[Constance Martin · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was disappointing. I found it difficult to read because of the constant changing point of view, the constant switching from past to present, the overly flowery language, the completely unlikable and uninteresting main characters, the very dark plot and the unsatisfying ending. I found it a very slow read- over a week which is a long time for a not very long book- and I fell asleep numerous times while reading it. It took almost the entire book just to set up the murder and by that time I had lost interest because frankly the main characters were such awful people that I honestly did not care if any or all of them were murdered. The book did not have any heroes or heroines nor was justice served. I did read the entire book and now that I have finished it, I am wondering why I bothered to finish it. The ending sets one character up for a sequel which I have absolutely no interest in reading. Unlike a lot of the comments, I had a pretty good idea all along of who got murdered and who did it and why so the ending came as no surprise to me. Not my cup of tea at all.

[melveen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t care for the writing style but that’s preference and has nothing to do with the story itself and I wanted to be fair

Even though the majority of this book is about STUPIDLY, IMMATURE, SPOILED, ANNOYING twins and their female friend and their toxic love/friendship triangle—I have to give it up to the author for writing such horrible characters. Literally none of the 3 has any redeeming qualities. They’ve been kept in their sheltered estate for too long and need to go outside and touch grass or something cause wow I hated them

The murder didn’t happen til about 90% in which is different but you also have the attempted murders throughout the book so it somehow makes up for it plus all the different characters aside from the annoying 3 that have their own agenda

Della was the most likable character. I told myself there was no way in hell I’d read another book if the series continued but damn it, that last line pulled me in and now I needed the next book like yesterday