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Amory Ames #4
The Essence of Malice
“For pity’s sake, darling, let me finish my coffee before you begin concocting schemes.”
When Amory Ames’s husband Milo receives a troubling letter from his childhood nanny, Madame Nanette, the couple travel to Paris where they become embroiled in a mystery surrounding the death of a famous parfumier. Helios Belanger died suddenly, shortly before the release of his new, highly anticipated perfume, and Madame Nanette, who works for his family, is convinced that her employer’s death was not due to natural causes.
The more Amory and Milo look into the motives of industry rivals and the Belanger heirs who are vying for control of his perfume empire, the more they are convinced that Madame Nanette may be right. When secrets unfold and things take a dangerous turn, Amory and Milo must work quickly to uncover the essence of the matter and catch a killer before the scent goes cold.
Also out now in the Amory Ames mysteries: Murder at the Brightwell, Death Wears a Mask and A Most Novel Revenge
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 395 reviews
May 29, 2021
This series is great for when I need something light and entertaining between other heavier books. I can count on Amory and her wayward husband Milo for some mild adventure and enjoyable banter.
In The Essence of Malice the couple are in Paris, called there by Milo's old nanny to investigate a suspected murder. I love the way the 1930's lifestyle of the very rich is portrayed. Amory buys dresses, because that's what you do in Paris, and never enquires about cost. Milo buys her a custom made perfume and does not flinch at the exorbitant price. And of course they travel all over Europe at a whim and stay in the best hotels.
Just one little niggle though. I need to find out soon what Milo is actually doing when he disappears because it is becoming annoying, and Amory's way of dealing with it is weak and out of character. I understand that a little friction between them makes for more interest but this aspect is getting tired. I am hoping the author is going to come up with something exciting!
Meanwhile I still have several books in the series left to read which makes me happy.
In The Essence of Malice the couple are in Paris, called there by Milo's old nanny to investigate a suspected murder. I love the way the 1930's lifestyle of the very rich is portrayed. Amory buys dresses, because that's what you do in Paris, and never enquires about cost. Milo buys her a custom made perfume and does not flinch at the exorbitant price. And of course they travel all over Europe at a whim and stay in the best hotels.
Just one little niggle though. I need to find out soon what Milo is actually doing when he disappears because it is becoming annoying, and Amory's way of dealing with it is weak and out of character. I understand that a little friction between them makes for more interest but this aspect is getting tired. I am hoping the author is going to come up with something exciting!
Meanwhile I still have several books in the series left to read which makes me happy.
October 10, 2020
First, before beginning my review of the book, I must get this out: Somebody please, please, give leading man Milo Ames a swift kick to that very sensitive area of his body below the belt. I have had enough of him. If I had a husband like Milo, he would be my ex by now. And while we're at it, let's slap wife Amory up the side of the head for putting up with his sh*t. Really, girl, get a spine. He needs a confrontation and ultimatum. He does not get a pass just because he is so devastatingly handsome (as we are told ad nauseam in all the books). This married couple do not talk to each other except on a very superficial level. They're like travel and dining companions or slight acquaintances who also have occasional (closed-door) sex. There. Got that out. Now on to the mystery.
It's OK. These Amory and Milo Ames 1930s mysteries are all OK, but never anything that you'd say, "Wow. That was quite a clever puzzler. I am impressed." I think my favorite thing about these books is the time setting, the jet-setting rich folk lives (which this middle-class reader will never enjoy except vicariously), and the books' art-deco covers.
This #4 in the series takes place in Paris, where Milo and Amory become involved in solving the mystery of the death of a very famous parfumier. If murder, there are plenty of suspects to choose from, all with varying motives. Even Milo's former nanny, who sent Milo the letter which brought them to Paris, may not be free and clear of all suspicion.
So here they are in Paris to solve the mystery, but, as usual, they do not really work together. Milo is always off hither and thither (all parts unknown because he doesn't tell Amory anything about his activities), sometimes all night or overnight. This, of course, leads to Amory going off on her own and doing her own investigations, at times getting into sticky situations along the way. Imagine how efficiently they could solve their mysteries if they weren't always working at cross purposes. Oh, oops, I'm back to the crabby complaints about this couple I was making at the very beginning of this review.
I haven't purchased any of these Weaver books. The first one I read as an Amazon Vine ARC and the rest of them were borrowed from the library. I seem to have a love-hate relationship with this rich couple and their jet-setting lives but not enough fondness that I'll put out my own money to foster it.
It's OK. These Amory and Milo Ames 1930s mysteries are all OK, but never anything that you'd say, "Wow. That was quite a clever puzzler. I am impressed." I think my favorite thing about these books is the time setting, the jet-setting rich folk lives (which this middle-class reader will never enjoy except vicariously), and the books' art-deco covers.
This #4 in the series takes place in Paris, where Milo and Amory become involved in solving the mystery of the death of a very famous parfumier. If murder, there are plenty of suspects to choose from, all with varying motives. Even Milo's former nanny, who sent Milo the letter which brought them to Paris, may not be free and clear of all suspicion.
So here they are in Paris to solve the mystery, but, as usual, they do not really work together. Milo is always off hither and thither (all parts unknown because he doesn't tell Amory anything about his activities), sometimes all night or overnight. This, of course, leads to Amory going off on her own and doing her own investigations, at times getting into sticky situations along the way. Imagine how efficiently they could solve their mysteries if they weren't always working at cross purposes. Oh, oops, I'm back to the crabby complaints about this couple I was making at the very beginning of this review.
I haven't purchased any of these Weaver books. The first one I read as an Amazon Vine ARC and the rest of them were borrowed from the library. I seem to have a love-hate relationship with this rich couple and their jet-setting lives but not enough fondness that I'll put out my own money to foster it.
May 19, 2023
The only negative thing I have to say about the series that I'm quickly nearing the end of the series. I didn't think I was much of a fan of more "historical " Cozy mysteries but I think I need to look more into it. Great characters, drama and plot!
September 16, 2021
The books in this series never fail to charm my pants off. I think this installment may have my favorite story since the first book. Ashley Weaver never fails to concoct an enthralling story, but this one had power (literally and figuratively) at the center and ended in a way that I did not see coming BUT that also made perfect sense. I binge these books like no other series I've ever read and I'm always chomping at the bit for the next one the moment I finish. If you like cozy mysteries and have not picked up this series yet - DO IT.
February 10, 2025
When Milo receives a troubling letter from Madame Nanette, his childhood nanny, he and wife Amory set out for Paris to visit her. There is a mystery concerning the famous Helios Belanger is renowned for his perfumes. He is on the cusp of launching a new perfume when he dies suddenly. Madame Nanette, who now works for the Belanger family, believes it was not from natural causes but that he was murdered. Could she be right? Amory and Milo are determined to uncover the truth. It is not the first time Amory has been part of a murder investigation. However, when the truth is uncovered a number of secrets spill out, some quite unexpected and far reaching.
I enjoyed this cosy historical mystery. I liked Amory, though she sure puts up with a lot from Milo who keeps disappearing for periods at a time, usually at night. Milo is a born flirt who attracts more than his share of female attention. Madame Nanette is an interesting character as are some of the Belanger family members. But not everyone is quite as they seem.There are enough suspects for the murder to keep the reader guessing. The closer they get to the secrets, the more the essence of murder permeates the air.
This was an engaging read. One thing that I did get repetitive was the emphasis on Milo’s attraction by women. Just a minor quibble in what a very enjoyable book. This is book 4 in a series about Amory Ames but it is certainly not necessary to have read the earlier books, to enjoy this one.
I enjoyed this cosy historical mystery. I liked Amory, though she sure puts up with a lot from Milo who keeps disappearing for periods at a time, usually at night. Milo is a born flirt who attracts more than his share of female attention. Madame Nanette is an interesting character as are some of the Belanger family members. But not everyone is quite as they seem.There are enough suspects for the murder to keep the reader guessing. The closer they get to the secrets, the more the essence of murder permeates the air.
This was an engaging read. One thing that I did get repetitive was the emphasis on Milo’s attraction by women. Just a minor quibble in what a very enjoyable book. This is book 4 in a series about Amory Ames but it is certainly not necessary to have read the earlier books, to enjoy this one.
August 26, 2017
Due to school starting and the arrival of Hurricane Harvey, I am a bit behind on my reviews. Today, I sat down to knock out the six that I need to do and realized I have been on a huge mystery kick. Five of the six reviews are for mysteries, including The Essence of Malice. While I generally think that is beneficial for comparison purposes to have read a lot of the same genre close in time, I feel that doing so in this case was a disservice for The Essence of Malice. I read the first book in the series, Murder at the Brightwell, when it was published in 2014. I missed the next two and picked up the series with The Essence of Malice. Sadly, I feel like I missed a lot by not reading books 2 and 3, and I had trouble following certain threads of the story and especially felt I was missing a basic understanding of Amory and Miles’ relationship. Having read two other mysteries recently where I had also not read the entire series but had no trouble leaping into the books without feeling like I was missing fundamental facts, this was a disappointment to me. Moreover, Milo is a cad, and half the time I wanted to shake Amory and tell her to have more self-respect and be less dithering. Those concerns aside, I enjoyed the setting, Europe in the mid-1930’s, and the plot was entertaining. I love perfume, and the main focus of the plot was the death of a famous parfumier. The details related to creating perfumes and layering them (a favorite thing of mine to do) were fascinating. I had figured out the “bad guy” midway through the story, but I still enjoyed the resolution and felt the mystery was wrapped up nicely. Thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 29, 2018
This is the best Amory Ames novel so far. (And I know I said that about the last book, but this series keeps improving.)
Amory Ames and her newly reformed husband are returning from their second honeymoon when a message from Milo's childhood nanny sends them scurrying to Paris to investigate another murder.
Milo's past comes more to light in this book, though for once it doesn't involve former lovers. (Well, it kind of does. But mostly not.) Attractive men throw themselves at Amory. People get held up at gunpoint.
You know, the usual.
But what makes this book fun is that Amory and Milo are starting to act more like a team. The best part was where Milo talks about their early romance from his perspective. Inbetween dramatic murders and endless descriptions of evening gowns, Ashley Weaver has enlisted the reader's support for her detective duo and this book is no different. Heck, I think more time is spent on their flirtation and personal arguments than the murder. But is adorable so I forgive.
Anyway, the mystery wasn't perfect. It truly is Milo and Amory who push this plot forward, as I could have cared less about who killed the perfumer.
In other news, however, I feel the urge to go out and buy super fancy perfume and maybe an evening gown or three.
August 8, 2020
4th in the series and the characters grow on me more every time!
Wife and Husband team Amory & Milo Ames set out to solve another mystery.
Set in 1930's Paris, this book captures a bit everything; mystery, fashion, history, marital dynamics, class... I mean it is a light-hearted cosy mystery but it is informative in lots of ways and I enjoyed it very much :)
Wife and Husband team Amory & Milo Ames set out to solve another mystery.
Set in 1930's Paris, this book captures a bit everything; mystery, fashion, history, marital dynamics, class... I mean it is a light-hearted cosy mystery but it is informative in lots of ways and I enjoyed it very much :)
January 11, 2021
4 Stars - Great book
I truly love this series and I’m so glad I picked up the first book and continued on.
Another murder-mystery in the same format as the previous books, but this time we’re transported to Paris. Amory and Milo are called to Paris by Milo’s former nanny to sus out mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of parfumier Helios Belanger.
We have similar themes as in previous books (distrust, marital troubles, deceit, etc.) but it’s still a good story.
Again, start at the beginning of the series.
I truly love this series and I’m so glad I picked up the first book and continued on.
Another murder-mystery in the same format as the previous books, but this time we’re transported to Paris. Amory and Milo are called to Paris by Milo’s former nanny to sus out mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of parfumier Helios Belanger.
We have similar themes as in previous books (distrust, marital troubles, deceit, etc.) but it’s still a good story.
Again, start at the beginning of the series.
March 31, 2018
Always nice to visit characters that you love. Also, happy that this got me out of my book slump:)
September 24, 2017
I will read more about Amory and Milo and their marriage - and their reserve - and their lack of communication - and their fights (when they choose to have them) - for as long as Weaver writes about them.
I don't care at all about the plots, and this one was fairly thin on the "reasons for them to be involved" front, and the plot resolution was incredibly shaky , but MORE ABOUT AMORY AND MILO AND THEIR MARRIAGE, THAT IS ALL I WANT. This is really a story of Amory learning to assert herself within the confines of her position and her time, and I love that. Well, okay, maybe it isn't primarily that - but all the same, that's a story being told in little bits and pieces, and when the plot gets out of the way long enough, the character interactions have room to shine.
I don't care at all about the plots, and this one was fairly thin on the "reasons for them to be involved" front, and the plot resolution was incredibly shaky , but MORE ABOUT AMORY AND MILO AND THEIR MARRIAGE, THAT IS ALL I WANT. This is really a story of Amory learning to assert herself within the confines of her position and her time, and I love that. Well, okay, maybe it isn't primarily that - but all the same, that's a story being told in little bits and pieces, and when the plot gets out of the way long enough, the character interactions have room to shine.
July 20, 2020
'When Amory Ames's husband Milo receives a troubling letter from his childhood nanny, Madame Nanette, the couple travel to Paris where they become embroiled in a mystery surrounding the death of a famous parfumier. Helios Belanger died suddenly, shortly before the release of his new, highly anticipated perfume, and Madame Nanette, who works for his family, is convinced that her employer's death was not due to natural causes.
The more Amory and Milo look into the motives of industry rivals and the Belanger heirs who are vying for control of his perfume empire, the more they are convinced that Madame Nanette may be right. When secrets unfold and things take a dangerous turn, Amory and Milo must work quickly to uncover the essence of the matter and catch a killer before the scent goes cold.'
____________________________
3.5 stars, rounded down to 3 stars.
The Essense of Malice is the fourth book in Ashley Weaver's An Amory Ames Mystery series and is a historical mystery taking place in the 1930s.
The Essence of Malice has not been my favorite from the series, as I felt that it had a slower start than the previous book in the series. And for me since the victim(and those closely connected to them) was someone they did not know, they could only very loosely justify connecting themselves to, and the crime occurred before they were even in the country, I found it less intruiging than the other cases they have been involved in thus far because the level of danger didn't feel the same due to these reasons. But at the same time, this did make the story unique from the others and was perhaps a bit more believable to that there a coincidentally a murder once they arrive in a location. Although this hasn't been my favorite, I still quite enjoyed it. The pacing just wasn't what I'm used to from this series.
This book has served to convince me more than any of the others thus far that Milo must secretly be a spy, which I am hoping we will learn to be the case in some future book. I want it so much to be true because if that is not that case, then he deserves a good kick to the ass and a good kick to the curb for continuing to carry about the way he does without any regard for Amory's feelings. And Amory, despite showing backbone with regards to his behavior earlier in the series, has reverted back to simpy putting up with his behavior and suffering in silence(aside from some occassional sulking to let him know she's cross) instead of just having the difficult conversation. Sometimes she drives me crazy.
The addition of Emile was...surprising, but he is adorable so I'm actually quite happy with the addition. I'm curious to see if he will remain a part of the series or if he will be sent away for future books and just continue to exist in the background.
I was correct in assuming that a certain character was connected to the murder, but not in the way that I was expected. Also the murder itself did not come about in quite the way I expeced and that was a lovely surprise at the end of the book, which was very refreshing. But I'll keep it at that and say no more, no spoilers.
I'm very much enjoying this historical mystery series and recommend it to others. I've already started the next book, An Act of Villainy and am hoping the one after, A Dangerous Engagement is delivered in time for me to start it right after.
The more Amory and Milo look into the motives of industry rivals and the Belanger heirs who are vying for control of his perfume empire, the more they are convinced that Madame Nanette may be right. When secrets unfold and things take a dangerous turn, Amory and Milo must work quickly to uncover the essence of the matter and catch a killer before the scent goes cold.'
____________________________
3.5 stars, rounded down to 3 stars.
The Essense of Malice is the fourth book in Ashley Weaver's An Amory Ames Mystery series and is a historical mystery taking place in the 1930s.
The Essence of Malice has not been my favorite from the series, as I felt that it had a slower start than the previous book in the series. And for me since the victim(and those closely connected to them) was someone they did not know, they could only very loosely justify connecting themselves to, and the crime occurred before they were even in the country, I found it less intruiging than the other cases they have been involved in thus far because the level of danger didn't feel the same due to these reasons. But at the same time, this did make the story unique from the others and was perhaps a bit more believable to that there a coincidentally a murder once they arrive in a location. Although this hasn't been my favorite, I still quite enjoyed it. The pacing just wasn't what I'm used to from this series.
This book has served to convince me more than any of the others thus far that Milo must secretly be a spy, which I am hoping we will learn to be the case in some future book. I want it so much to be true because if that is not that case, then he deserves a good kick to the ass and a good kick to the curb for continuing to carry about the way he does without any regard for Amory's feelings. And Amory, despite showing backbone with regards to his behavior earlier in the series, has reverted back to simpy putting up with his behavior and suffering in silence(aside from some occassional sulking to let him know she's cross) instead of just having the difficult conversation. Sometimes she drives me crazy.
The addition of Emile was...surprising, but he is adorable so I'm actually quite happy with the addition. I'm curious to see if he will remain a part of the series or if he will be sent away for future books and just continue to exist in the background.
I was correct in assuming that a certain character was connected to the murder, but not in the way that I was expected. Also the murder itself did not come about in quite the way I expeced and that was a lovely surprise at the end of the book, which was very refreshing. But I'll keep it at that and say no more, no spoilers.
I'm very much enjoying this historical mystery series and recommend it to others. I've already started the next book, An Act of Villainy and am hoping the one after, A Dangerous Engagement is delivered in time for me to start it right after.
April 5, 2022
Review to follow
November 11, 2017
3.5 rounded up-I liked the mystery plot
Amory and Milo Ames are enjoying a well-deserved vacation in Italy when their idyll is shattered first by the intrusion of Milo's new friend Mr. Duveau who encourages Milo to do reckless things like fly planes. Amory is not thrilled but the handsome parfumier has a lot of charm-nearly as much as Milo. Then Milo receives a letter from his old nanny, Madame Nanette and soon Amory and Milo are in Paris to help her. Madame Nanette's employer, Helios Bellanger, the leading parfumier in all of the world, has recently died. The doctor was satisfied to list cause of death as heart failure, but Madame Nanette wonders whether foul play was involved. She asks Milo to investigate. Amory is not about to be left behind. While Milo appears to be spending his evenings gambling and flirting, Amory is busy befriending the Bellangers and gathering clues. Amory begins to mistrust her husband and as a result, is determined to find the truth for Madame Nanette.
I really liked the mystery plot. It was very engaging. I started this at the library but didn't have time to really get into it. I only meant to read half the book in one night but I could not put it down. I had no idea who the murderer was. It could have been any number of people for any number of reasons-power, wealth, fame, artistic differences, competition.... I wasn't surprised at the identity of the villain though BUT then there's the reveal which came as a huge shock. I had to read it twice. The historical details are also excellent. If you're a fan of period fashion you will LOVE this book. Amory goes shopping in Paris. I don't know much about this time or care for the fashions but I did enjoy the details. Likewise, the details about perfume creation were so interesting. I don't even like perfume! I'm allergic! I had no idea it was so complicated.
Where this book failed for me was in the personal storyline between Milo and Avery. He returns to his magical disappearing and evasive act while she begins to mistrust him. I'm still convinced he has a secret double life and is trying to protect Amory. I can't stand their bickering and Amory's childish behavior. I can't say I wouldn't be mad too in her position and want to investigate on my own. They had been doing so well and in the beginning they reminded me of Nick and Nora Charles from The Thin Man movies but then they got annoying. Milo is handsome, charming and a ladies' man. I get it. Amory hates that. OK. That gets tired. I'd like to see them investigate together as a team the way they started to in the beginning of the novel.
There are lots of new characters here for Amory and Miles to meet. The women are more appealing than the men. Madame Nanette is lovely but maybe a little guarded around Amory and her history with Helios complicates matters. I didn't like Mr. Duveau. Like Milo he is a handsome, charming ladies' man, however, I found him too slick. I didn't like how he flirted with Amory and probably wouldn't have hesitated to seduce her if she was the least bit willing. The same with Michel Bellanger. The Bellangers are a stereotypical wealthy family of the period. The stakes are high here-the family's reputation hinges on M. Bellanger's newest perfume and the two oldest children vying for control. I didn't like power and money hungry eldest son Anton for different reasons than I didn't like his brother. I did end up liking Celine. She came across as tough and "masculine" according to gender norms of the day. She was the smartest member of her family and had a true passion for perfume. I liked her better than Amory. I even liked the cabaret dancer Angelique who found a way to earn a living using her sexuality. She seemed intelligent too.
If you like The Thin Man movies you'll like this series.
Amory and Milo Ames are enjoying a well-deserved vacation in Italy when their idyll is shattered first by the intrusion of Milo's new friend Mr. Duveau who encourages Milo to do reckless things like fly planes. Amory is not thrilled but the handsome parfumier has a lot of charm-nearly as much as Milo. Then Milo receives a letter from his old nanny, Madame Nanette and soon Amory and Milo are in Paris to help her. Madame Nanette's employer, Helios Bellanger, the leading parfumier in all of the world, has recently died. The doctor was satisfied to list cause of death as heart failure, but Madame Nanette wonders whether foul play was involved. She asks Milo to investigate. Amory is not about to be left behind. While Milo appears to be spending his evenings gambling and flirting, Amory is busy befriending the Bellangers and gathering clues. Amory begins to mistrust her husband and as a result, is determined to find the truth for Madame Nanette.
I really liked the mystery plot. It was very engaging. I started this at the library but didn't have time to really get into it. I only meant to read half the book in one night but I could not put it down. I had no idea who the murderer was. It could have been any number of people for any number of reasons-power, wealth, fame, artistic differences, competition.... I wasn't surprised at the identity of the villain though BUT then there's the reveal which came as a huge shock. I had to read it twice. The historical details are also excellent. If you're a fan of period fashion you will LOVE this book. Amory goes shopping in Paris. I don't know much about this time or care for the fashions but I did enjoy the details. Likewise, the details about perfume creation were so interesting. I don't even like perfume! I'm allergic! I had no idea it was so complicated.
Where this book failed for me was in the personal storyline between Milo and Avery. He returns to his magical disappearing and evasive act while she begins to mistrust him. I'm still convinced he has a secret double life and is trying to protect Amory. I can't stand their bickering and Amory's childish behavior. I can't say I wouldn't be mad too in her position and want to investigate on my own. They had been doing so well and in the beginning they reminded me of Nick and Nora Charles from The Thin Man movies but then they got annoying. Milo is handsome, charming and a ladies' man. I get it. Amory hates that. OK. That gets tired. I'd like to see them investigate together as a team the way they started to in the beginning of the novel.
There are lots of new characters here for Amory and Miles to meet. The women are more appealing than the men. Madame Nanette is lovely but maybe a little guarded around Amory and her history with Helios complicates matters. I didn't like Mr. Duveau. Like Milo he is a handsome, charming ladies' man, however, I found him too slick. I didn't like how he flirted with Amory and probably wouldn't have hesitated to seduce her if she was the least bit willing. The same with Michel Bellanger. The Bellangers are a stereotypical wealthy family of the period. The stakes are high here-the family's reputation hinges on M. Bellanger's newest perfume and the two oldest children vying for control. I didn't like power and money hungry eldest son Anton for different reasons than I didn't like his brother. I did end up liking Celine. She came across as tough and "masculine" according to gender norms of the day. She was the smartest member of her family and had a true passion for perfume. I liked her better than Amory. I even liked the cabaret dancer Angelique who found a way to earn a living using her sexuality. She seemed intelligent too.
If you like The Thin Man movies you'll like this series.
December 19, 2022
Milo's old nanny (Madame Nanette, natch) summons him to Paris to investigate her current employer (Helios Belanger)'s death. Can Amory and Milo figure it out before .... IDK, they fight themselves right into divorce court or something?
1. Seriously there is no teeth to this thing: Helios died, maybe from natural causes, and some of his family is acting strange, but also Milo is acting strange, so....?
2. Speaking of: Milo was an actual pain in the ass in this. And Amory's tantrums and refusal to TALK TO HIM was so frustrating. Like, grow the fuck up, kids.
3. The mystery was garbage.
4. The reveal was garbage.
5. Much garbage.
1. Seriously there is no teeth to this thing: Helios died, maybe from natural causes, and some of his family is acting strange, but also Milo is acting strange, so....?
2. Speaking of: Milo was an actual pain in the ass in this. And Amory's tantrums and refusal to TALK TO HIM was so frustrating. Like, grow the fuck up, kids.
3. The mystery was garbage.
4. The reveal was garbage.
5. Much garbage.
August 1, 2017
How I love Amory Ames — stylish, beautiful, persistant, clever, inquisitive to a fault! And author Ashley Weaver does not disappoint in the fourth installment in this delightful series, set in the 1930s.
Internationally famous perfume magnate Helios Belanger dies shortly after a near-fatal plane crash. The nanny in the Belanger mansion in Paris, Madame Nanette, senses foul play, and, having raised Amory’s rakish husband Milo, brings the problem to Amory and Milo. (The pair have developed a reputation as amateur sleuths, much to Milo’s perturbation and Amory’s delight.)
So who could have wanted Helios dead? Any of his three children, his young trophy wife, and quite a few more. While I enjoyed the mystery and clever dialogue (as I always do), it’s really the resilient Amory and her clverness that really draws me to the novels. However, the brilliant surprise ending really added to this exceptional novel. Weaver’s writing remains so faithful to the 1930s, that it’s easy to forget that The Essence of Malice wasn’t written in the Golden Age of British cozies. Here’s to hoping that there will be dozens more of Amory Ames’ adventures.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I received this book free from NetGalley, Thomas Dunne, and Minotaur Books in return for an honest review.
Internationally famous perfume magnate Helios Belanger dies shortly after a near-fatal plane crash. The nanny in the Belanger mansion in Paris, Madame Nanette, senses foul play, and, having raised Amory’s rakish husband Milo, brings the problem to Amory and Milo. (The pair have developed a reputation as amateur sleuths, much to Milo’s perturbation and Amory’s delight.)
So who could have wanted Helios dead? Any of his three children, his young trophy wife, and quite a few more. While I enjoyed the mystery and clever dialogue (as I always do), it’s really the resilient Amory and her clverness that really draws me to the novels. However, the brilliant surprise ending really added to this exceptional novel. Weaver’s writing remains so faithful to the 1930s, that it’s easy to forget that The Essence of Malice wasn’t written in the Golden Age of British cozies. Here’s to hoping that there will be dozens more of Amory Ames’ adventures.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I received this book free from NetGalley, Thomas Dunne, and Minotaur Books in return for an honest review.
February 21, 2025
I love that this Amory Ames novel was set in Paris. It was fun to learn about the perfume industry!
December 22, 2021
Definitely still enjoying these books. The characters and the world are really well done.
Re-Read December 2021
Re-Read December 2021
December 23, 2018
I am still convinced Milo is a spy kthx xoxo
October 27, 2021
Back in book 3, I became convinced that Milo is some sort of government agent, but had figured out how to do his job without making Amory completely miserable. Well, I still think he’s an agent, but he has stopped trying to develop a partnership with Amory and he’s back to making her miserable. I imagine most readers love the tension, but I just feel badly for Amory every time her husband lies to her.
I liked the mystery here and enjoyed the sleuthing. I find Amory fun and interesting. She’s brave and intelligent…these books would be brilliant if Milo would actually be her partner.
I liked the mystery here and enjoyed the sleuthing. I find Amory fun and interesting. She’s brave and intelligent…these books would be brilliant if Milo would actually be her partner.
September 9, 2017
The Essence of Malice is the fourth Amory Ames mystery. Amory is an amateur sleuth and as a lady of leisure she has the time to devote to various mysteries that she encounters. At this point in the series Amory's marriage to Milo seems to be more stable; however, there are still instances where Amory feels frustrated by her husband and his secretive nature. I am more convinced than ever that Milo is a spy and I was kind of disappointed that there wasn't much more development in this area. As much as I have enjoyed this series, I feel like it has reached a bit of a plateau. At the start of the series, the conflict between Amory and Milo propelled each book forward, but at this point I feel like there wasn't much new with their dynamic. In my opinion something needs to change with the main characters or the series may become stale. I like the mystery aspect, but I am reading the series because I like Amory, which is why I think the characters need to be shaken up a bit.
What I did like about their relationship in this book, is how the Paris setting allowed Amory and Milo to reflect on their honeymoon and the early days of their marriage. There was one moment where Milo even offers his thoughts on their relationship and it was so lovely, added some much needed depth to Amory's mysterious husband. As this series is written in Amory's point of view, I find Milo to be an unknowable character, so this sentimental moment was a really great way to develop his character and I would really like to see more of these in future books since it strengthens both his character as well as Amory's through her reactions to them.
Aside from the subdued nature of Amory and Milo's relationship in The Essence of Malice, this latest instalment offers the same hallmarks that have made the previous books so enjoyable. There is great attention to period detail and the setting is always opulent. The mystery, like those previous, are relatively tame and makes this a rather comforting read for all that it centres around a murder. If you enjoy Miss Fisher's Mysteries this is an excellent series to follow-up with. Amory might not be as independently minded, but she has her own unique style, and Amory's fashion sense is sure to draw parallels to the intrepid Miss Fisher.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
What I did like about their relationship in this book, is how the Paris setting allowed Amory and Milo to reflect on their honeymoon and the early days of their marriage. There was one moment where Milo even offers his thoughts on their relationship and it was so lovely, added some much needed depth to Amory's mysterious husband. As this series is written in Amory's point of view, I find Milo to be an unknowable character, so this sentimental moment was a really great way to develop his character and I would really like to see more of these in future books since it strengthens both his character as well as Amory's through her reactions to them.
Aside from the subdued nature of Amory and Milo's relationship in The Essence of Malice, this latest instalment offers the same hallmarks that have made the previous books so enjoyable. There is great attention to period detail and the setting is always opulent. The mystery, like those previous, are relatively tame and makes this a rather comforting read for all that it centres around a murder. If you enjoy Miss Fisher's Mysteries this is an excellent series to follow-up with. Amory might not be as independently minded, but she has her own unique style, and Amory's fashion sense is sure to draw parallels to the intrepid Miss Fisher.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
September 8, 2019
Actual rating is 2.2
I was totally onboard with the goings on in this novel up to the last third of it. There was a lot of the details that make this a classic Amory Ames story: lots of descriptions of fancy clothing, Amory and Milo rubbing shoulders with all of the suspects, and some flirty banter between the Ameses.
Unfortch, the last third of the book brought back the by now old arguments between Milo (who is a tad too secretive) and Amory (who whines about Milo keeping things from her.) Adding to that, there's the fact that these many books in and Milo remains a cypher. He's rich and handsome and charming...and that's it. I really wish that the author had allowed him to open up more with Amory about his thoughts and desires instead of parceling out brief moments of vulnerability.
Adding to that, the mystery started on a good note but had a terrible resolution. One that included a tremendously ridiculous twist that didn't fit with the rest of the novel. It is telling that even Amory is uncomfortable with the consequences of solving the mystery as the book comes to a close.
TL;DR: A 9-hr and change audiobook that proved to be weakest entry in the Amory Ames series so far. I liked most of the story so I intend to finish reading the series (there are only 2 more books left). My suggestion would be to borrow the books from your library or subscription service instead of buying them. I borrowed this book from my local library.
I was totally onboard with the goings on in this novel up to the last third of it. There was a lot of the details that make this a classic Amory Ames story: lots of descriptions of fancy clothing, Amory and Milo rubbing shoulders with all of the suspects, and some flirty banter between the Ameses.
Unfortch, the last third of the book brought back the by now old arguments between Milo (who is a tad too secretive) and Amory (who whines about Milo keeping things from her.) Adding to that, there's the fact that these many books in and Milo remains a cypher. He's rich and handsome and charming...and that's it. I really wish that the author had allowed him to open up more with Amory about his thoughts and desires instead of parceling out brief moments of vulnerability.
Adding to that, the mystery started on a good note but had a terrible resolution. One that included a tremendously ridiculous twist that didn't fit with the rest of the novel. It is telling that even Amory is uncomfortable with the consequences of solving the mystery as the book comes to a close.
TL;DR: A 9-hr and change audiobook that proved to be weakest entry in the Amory Ames series so far. I liked most of the story so I intend to finish reading the series (there are only 2 more books left). My suggestion would be to borrow the books from your library or subscription service instead of buying them. I borrowed this book from my local library.
September 7, 2017
3.5 stars, but rounding up because some of the Milo backstory is interesting.
I continue to really enjoy this series, and the secondary cast, like the perfume-making family (particularly the daughter) and Milo's old nanny were fun. Amory getting a personalized scent was a nice sub-plot, and related to the murder. Mildly entertained that Milo won Amory a monkey, who seems to delight in returning stolen items to their owners.
Murderer was ridiculously obvious the first page he showed up on.
Either way, still enjoying the heck out of this series. I do like Amory and Milo's dynamic when they're much more comfortable with each other.
I continue to really enjoy this series, and the secondary cast, like the perfume-making family (particularly the daughter) and Milo's old nanny were fun. Amory getting a personalized scent was a nice sub-plot, and related to the murder. Mildly entertained that Milo won Amory a monkey, who seems to delight in returning stolen items to their owners.
Murderer was ridiculously obvious the first page he showed up on.
Either way, still enjoying the heck out of this series. I do like Amory and Milo's dynamic when they're much more comfortable with each other.
October 7, 2023
I liked this mystery better than the last with Milo’s childhood nanny (mother figure) needing help in Paris. I liked some of the more heartfelt moments, though they were too few and far between for my taste. I could use a little more connection and romance between the Amory and Milo, they are married after all! It needn’t be spicy, just more romance and connection. Winning Amory a monkey certainly doesn’t count as romance either.
August 2, 2017
This is the fourth installment of this series but the first one I've read and found I was missing a great deal of the back story. It's set in the 1930's during the Golden Age of British mysteries and features a marriage between Amory Ames and her husband, Milo. Billed as the new Nick and Nora, they are not quite as charming and seem to have friction in their marriage caused by Milo's behavior of staying out all night in gambling clubs, bars and cavorting with floozies. Wait, that does sound like Nick.
Milo's old nanny comes to them thinking that her bosses recent death was actually a murder. The family is based in Paris and the boss was a famous perfume businessman. The nanny had a brief affair with him when they were in their youth and found his personality remarkably changed. Thus she suspects murder.
There is a cast of characters, one daughter and two sons, one a ne'er do well. There is a young stepmother with a new baby, a pilot with plenty of time and money on his hands, and many lovely, young women. Amory and Milo keep to their own agendas causing hard feelings and suspicions and a "I'm Sorry" gift of monkey.
This is pleasant book with a surprisingly interesting ending.
Milo's old nanny comes to them thinking that her bosses recent death was actually a murder. The family is based in Paris and the boss was a famous perfume businessman. The nanny had a brief affair with him when they were in their youth and found his personality remarkably changed. Thus she suspects murder.
There is a cast of characters, one daughter and two sons, one a ne'er do well. There is a young stepmother with a new baby, a pilot with plenty of time and money on his hands, and many lovely, young women. Amory and Milo keep to their own agendas causing hard feelings and suspicions and a "I'm Sorry" gift of monkey.
This is pleasant book with a surprisingly interesting ending.
August 3, 2017
In this fourth of Weaver's stylish series, we have left England for a brief stay in Lake Como before travelling to 1930s Paris with Amory and Milo who are set to investigate the possible murder of a famous parfumier.
Full of Gallic charm with its excursions into smoky Parisian night-clubs, couture establishments and the intricacies of the high-end perfume business, this book has Milo taking the lead in the investigation, for once, and develops his personality and our insight into the Ames' marriage.
It remains bright and glamorous with Amory's wonderful voice, the comic antics of her maid Winnelda, and the new addition of a monkey! All the same, there are some hints by the end of how this series might develop further with, perhaps, a greater role for the divine Milo - yay!
There are a number of 1920s-30s murder mystery series out there now - this is my favourite for the witty writing and touches of emotional depth. Perfect for when you need some switch-off fluff that doesn't compromise on style.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley.
Full of Gallic charm with its excursions into smoky Parisian night-clubs, couture establishments and the intricacies of the high-end perfume business, this book has Milo taking the lead in the investigation, for once, and develops his personality and our insight into the Ames' marriage.
It remains bright and glamorous with Amory's wonderful voice, the comic antics of her maid Winnelda, and the new addition of a monkey! All the same, there are some hints by the end of how this series might develop further with, perhaps, a greater role for the divine Milo - yay!
There are a number of 1920s-30s murder mystery series out there now - this is my favourite for the witty writing and touches of emotional depth. Perfect for when you need some switch-off fluff that doesn't compromise on style.
Thanks to the publisher for an ARC via NetGalley.
December 31, 2018
I continue to be super into this series.
July 14, 2022
Enjoyed this installment very much.
September 19, 2017
Here I am, yet another late comer to a new mystery series and I find myself wondering how in fact I missed this series in the first place!
Picking up a book mid series is always a risk, but I have found that more often than not, the author tries to fill in the missing links for new readers so they don’t feel like they need to start at the beginning. However sometimes it’s just not possible to go back and try to recap everything that a new reader might have missed.
The relationship between Milo and Amory was tedious and complicated in my opinion. I wasn’t quite sure the nature of their relationship–even though they were married–I felt like I needed the other books to sort out the nuances of their relationship. It just seemed unconventional and not the typical kind of relationship that one finds in these types of mystery novels. There was a lot about Milo that I felt needed explaining and I don’t know that we even scratched the surface of it in this book. At times I wasn’t even sure that I liked Milo so I struggled with their relationship which is why I felt like I needed the other books to help explain and justify or ratify my feelings toward him.
I did love the setting and time period though. The 1920’s and 1930’s are such a trendy period in literature right now and while I have been reluctant to get on board that trend, I still don’t mind the occasional venture into that time period when the mood strikes–as in this case. Paris was the perfect setting for this time period and I loved exploring the Parisian night life as well as the perfume industry. The perfume industry is fascinating and I thought it brought a lot of interest to this novel and what better place to explore perfume than in Paris. I also thought that Weaver did a great job showcasing the ‘lifestyles of the rich and famous’ in Paris at that time. She clearly researched the era and worked to bring it to life for her readers.
The mystery itself was satisfying and ended up going in a direction that I didn’t see coming.I enjoyed the twists and turns and ultimately the resolution of the mystery. While there were things to enjoy and like in this book, there were also too many things the I felt like I was missing. It was an ok read on its own but I really feel that going back and gather the larger picture in the other books would be a huge benefit to new readers in this series. I hate to give this one a 3 star rating based on the fact that I haven’t read the other books, but because I didn’t have all the pieces from earlier books, I felt like I couldn’t enjoy it to the degree that I wanted to.
See my full review here
Picking up a book mid series is always a risk, but I have found that more often than not, the author tries to fill in the missing links for new readers so they don’t feel like they need to start at the beginning. However sometimes it’s just not possible to go back and try to recap everything that a new reader might have missed.
The relationship between Milo and Amory was tedious and complicated in my opinion. I wasn’t quite sure the nature of their relationship–even though they were married–I felt like I needed the other books to sort out the nuances of their relationship. It just seemed unconventional and not the typical kind of relationship that one finds in these types of mystery novels. There was a lot about Milo that I felt needed explaining and I don’t know that we even scratched the surface of it in this book. At times I wasn’t even sure that I liked Milo so I struggled with their relationship which is why I felt like I needed the other books to help explain and justify or ratify my feelings toward him.
I did love the setting and time period though. The 1920’s and 1930’s are such a trendy period in literature right now and while I have been reluctant to get on board that trend, I still don’t mind the occasional venture into that time period when the mood strikes–as in this case. Paris was the perfect setting for this time period and I loved exploring the Parisian night life as well as the perfume industry. The perfume industry is fascinating and I thought it brought a lot of interest to this novel and what better place to explore perfume than in Paris. I also thought that Weaver did a great job showcasing the ‘lifestyles of the rich and famous’ in Paris at that time. She clearly researched the era and worked to bring it to life for her readers.
The mystery itself was satisfying and ended up going in a direction that I didn’t see coming.I enjoyed the twists and turns and ultimately the resolution of the mystery. While there were things to enjoy and like in this book, there were also too many things the I felt like I was missing. It was an ok read on its own but I really feel that going back and gather the larger picture in the other books would be a huge benefit to new readers in this series. I hate to give this one a 3 star rating based on the fact that I haven’t read the other books, but because I didn’t have all the pieces from earlier books, I felt like I couldn’t enjoy it to the degree that I wanted to.
See my full review here
December 31, 2017
3.5 stars
When Milo receives a letter from his childhood nanny saying that she can't visit them as previously planned, he knows her well enough to know that something isn't right He and Amory are soon off to Paris to see what might be wrong with his nanny and her current employers, a family of wealthy perfumiers. Milo's instincts turn out to be correct when the patriarch of the family turns up dead.
The "who" in this who-done-it is pretty obvious and the "why" is unexpectedly out of left field but at least the book fully owns this as Amory voices both sentiments herself. In any case, the win-win of these books isn't the mysteries but rather the back-and-forth banter of Amory and Milo. While I'm definitely starting to believe that my early theory about Milo is incorrect, darn it, this book does offer some more insight into Milo's childhood, which is nice.
When Milo receives a letter from his childhood nanny saying that she can't visit them as previously planned, he knows her well enough to know that something isn't right He and Amory are soon off to Paris to see what might be wrong with his nanny and her current employers, a family of wealthy perfumiers. Milo's instincts turn out to be correct when the patriarch of the family turns up dead.
The "who" in this who-done-it is pretty obvious and the "why" is unexpectedly out of left field but at least the book fully owns this as Amory voices both sentiments herself. In any case, the win-win of these books isn't the mysteries but rather the back-and-forth banter of Amory and Milo. While I'm definitely starting to believe that my early theory about Milo is incorrect, darn it, this book does offer some more insight into Milo's childhood, which is nice.
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