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Lady Frances Ffolkes #3
Death at the Emerald
One-named stunning actress Helen mysteriously vanished 30 years ago. An elderly family friend is unable to bear not knowing any longer and commissions Lady Frances Ffolkes to track her down. Taking on the role of Lady Sherlock, with her loyal maid Mallow drafted as her Watson, Frances finds herself immersed in the glamorous world of Edwardian theater and London's latest craze--motion pictures.
As Frances and Mallow make their way through the theaters, they meet colorful figures such as George Bernard Shaw and King Edward II. Tracking the theaters seems like a dead end. That is until one of Helen's old suitors is suddenly murdered. With the stakes raised, Frances and Mallow work quickly to uncover a box of subtle clues to Helen's whereabouts. But someone unexpected wants that box just as badly and is willing to kill to keep it shut.
The stage is set for murder and Frances and Mallow are determined to unravel the decades-old conspiracy in Death at the Emerald, R. J. Koreto's third installment in the captivating Lady Frances Ffolkes mysteries.
As Frances and Mallow make their way through the theaters, they meet colorful figures such as George Bernard Shaw and King Edward II. Tracking the theaters seems like a dead end. That is until one of Helen's old suitors is suddenly murdered. With the stakes raised, Frances and Mallow work quickly to uncover a box of subtle clues to Helen's whereabouts. But someone unexpected wants that box just as badly and is willing to kill to keep it shut.
The stage is set for murder and Frances and Mallow are determined to unravel the decades-old conspiracy in Death at the Emerald, R. J. Koreto's third installment in the captivating Lady Frances Ffolkes mysteries.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published November 7, 2017
26 people are currently reading
1285 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Koreto
16 books327 followersR.J. Koreto is the author of the Lady Frances Ffolkes mystery series, the Alice Roosevelt mystery series, and the Wren Fontaine Historic Homes series. His short stories have been published in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine and Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine.
In his day job, he works as a business and financial journalist. Over the years, he’s been a magazine writer and editor, website manager, PR consultant, book author, and seaman in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Like his heroine, Lady Frances Ffolkes, he’s a graduate of Vassar College.
With his wife and daughters, he divides his time between Rockland County, N.Y., and Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.
In his day job, he works as a business and financial journalist. Over the years, he’s been a magazine writer and editor, website manager, PR consultant, book author, and seaman in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Like his heroine, Lady Frances Ffolkes, he’s a graduate of Vassar College.
With his wife and daughters, he divides his time between Rockland County, N.Y., and Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 6, 2017
"All the world's a stage. And all the men and women merely players."
And sometimes the role we play revolves around the complicated, the intense, and the ever-changing.
Lady Beatrice Torrence, the elderly widow of Sir Arnold, wishes to make amends before that role of hers meets its final act. She beckons to Lady Frances Ffolkes (Yep, that spelling is correct.) to join her privately. Lady Beatrice wishes to be discrete. Her secret has been contained within her heart for over thirty years.
Enter Lady Frances, suffragist, daughter of a marquess, and a self-made detective who knows well enough to keep the hidden hidden. Lady Beatrice asks Frances to search for her older daughter, Louisa, who fled the Torrence mansion to become an actress so many years ago. Raven-haired and beautiful, Louisa fit the draw of that eye-catching part and would command attention on any stage. It's 1905 in Edwardian London and the scandal would surely cast its shadow over this household. Lady Beatrice lets it be known at social gatherings that Louisa died of a fever on a trip to America. But now, old and remorseful, Lady Beatrice merely wants to know of her whereabouts and to say good-bye to her.
So much passage of time will prove to be quite the challenge for Frances. But armed with her lively maid, June Mallow, Frances visits the Emerald Theater. It is here that Frances picks up on a curtain that doesn't seem to close completely. Light seems to pour onto this darkened stage. There are individuals who know more about a dark-haired actress of long ago named Helen than what they are saying. Perhaps Helen is the elusive Louisa who seems to have disappeared into thin air. The trail goes cold when it leads to a grave in the local cemetery. However, as always, it's not over until Lady Frances says it's over.
R.J. Koreto presents the third book in the Frances Ffolkes Mystery series. Each book can be read as a standalone in a delightful romp through Edwardian London. Koreto has created his Frances as a bicycle riding, dojo self-defense artist, and a self-proclaimed detective with a niggling desire to solve the unsolvable. Together with her maid Mallow, Frances employs her analytical skills with hard-nosed determination. Koreto gets it so right with time, place, and historical action. Can't wait to see what Lady Frances will be involved in next time. Oh, and be sure to bring Mallow!
I received a copy of Death at the Emerald through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and to R.J. Koreto for the opportunity.
And sometimes the role we play revolves around the complicated, the intense, and the ever-changing.
Lady Beatrice Torrence, the elderly widow of Sir Arnold, wishes to make amends before that role of hers meets its final act. She beckons to Lady Frances Ffolkes (Yep, that spelling is correct.) to join her privately. Lady Beatrice wishes to be discrete. Her secret has been contained within her heart for over thirty years.
Enter Lady Frances, suffragist, daughter of a marquess, and a self-made detective who knows well enough to keep the hidden hidden. Lady Beatrice asks Frances to search for her older daughter, Louisa, who fled the Torrence mansion to become an actress so many years ago. Raven-haired and beautiful, Louisa fit the draw of that eye-catching part and would command attention on any stage. It's 1905 in Edwardian London and the scandal would surely cast its shadow over this household. Lady Beatrice lets it be known at social gatherings that Louisa died of a fever on a trip to America. But now, old and remorseful, Lady Beatrice merely wants to know of her whereabouts and to say good-bye to her.
So much passage of time will prove to be quite the challenge for Frances. But armed with her lively maid, June Mallow, Frances visits the Emerald Theater. It is here that Frances picks up on a curtain that doesn't seem to close completely. Light seems to pour onto this darkened stage. There are individuals who know more about a dark-haired actress of long ago named Helen than what they are saying. Perhaps Helen is the elusive Louisa who seems to have disappeared into thin air. The trail goes cold when it leads to a grave in the local cemetery. However, as always, it's not over until Lady Frances says it's over.
R.J. Koreto presents the third book in the Frances Ffolkes Mystery series. Each book can be read as a standalone in a delightful romp through Edwardian London. Koreto has created his Frances as a bicycle riding, dojo self-defense artist, and a self-proclaimed detective with a niggling desire to solve the unsolvable. Together with her maid Mallow, Frances employs her analytical skills with hard-nosed determination. Koreto gets it so right with time, place, and historical action. Can't wait to see what Lady Frances will be involved in next time. Oh, and be sure to bring Mallow!
I received a copy of Death at the Emerald through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and to R.J. Koreto for the opportunity.
January 11, 2018
A chance meeting with Lady Torrance starts Lady Frances Ffolks on a new career-private enquiry agent. Franny is excited to be the first female private enquiry agent in London and is eager to help Lady Torrance solve the mystery of her long-lost daughter Louisa. Thirty years ago Louisa ran away from home to join the theater against the wishes of Lord Torrance. By the time Louisa's father tried to find her, it was too late- she had vanished. Likely, Louisa changed her name but the theater folk are like family and don't want outsiders intruding. Franny is determined to barge her way into the theater and get some answers. She uncovers some puzzling clues and when one of her leads is murdered, Franny knows it was not a simple robbery. Someone wants to keep her from finding Helen. Who could it be? Could it be one of the actors or the theater manager; Lady Torrance's son-in-law who is "someone" in the City or someone else with secrets buried deep?
I absolutely love this series. The story feels very modern though it is set around 1905. Elements of this story are extremely timely including equal pay for equal work and sexual harassment in the entertainment industry. I can easily see Franny supporting Times' Up and Hal donating his legal services! Obviously, these problems that affect us today are nothing new. The Edwardian era was a time of change for women when they began to speak up. Franny is unconventional and modern but the excuse for her behavior is she was educated in America and picked up odd ideas. She never lets her class and religious bias show through, which I really like but this also shows the author is modern and not actually Edwardian. Mallow is more snobby than Franny! They remind me so much of Phryne and Dot in Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. Franny is not as daring as Phryne but is certainly paving the way for Phryne Fisher, Kate Shackleton and the other female sleuths that appear in the 1920s and 30s. Franny has cold feel about marrying Hal. I understand her concerns and would be worried about the same things, but Hal has proven time and time again that he isn't as conventional as he appeared at first. She should trust him more. No love interest for Mallow but I think she could use one. She had one but he seems to have been dropped from the plot.
I dropped my rating to 4 stars instead of 5 because the story really relies on too many coincidences. I figured out Act II of Franny's little play long before she did. I probably would have quit when I figured that out and NOT gone to the lengths Franny did. I also didn't like how she broke the law to get crucial evidence and pulled strings to skirt the law. Even so, I loved the book so much I couldn't put it down. I managed to get halfway through before being too tired to continue last night but when I couldn't sleep this morning, I had to finish!
The mystery was so complicated and involved so many people. Lady Torrance, like many women of her generation, had to put up with a lot from her husband, who does not seem like a good man, though not any different from any other peer. I like her strength and her willingness to accept the truth no matter what. She sounds like a loving mother who never stopped loving and longing for her eldest daughter. Louisa sounds like she was more headstrong and determined than Franny but finally grew up enough to realize what she wanted. I admire her for that. I identify a lot with her and her longing for independence. I wasn't sure what to make of her sister Sarah, Lady Freemantle or her husband at first. They seem like they could be complicated characters but aren't fleshed out much.
Then we have the men who loved beautiful Helen. One loved her like a father, one loved her truly, one loved her madly and one loved the thrill of the chase. She was a Victorian Helen of Troy. I felt sorry for Mr. Mattins. He didn't deserve to die but he wasn't around long enough to get a good feel for his character. I felt bad for Mr. Rusk for not being able to withstand Hurricane Frances! He does his best but seems a little weak spirited. Quentin Prescott is an actor-you know the type. He's a stereotype in every way. Franny didn't like him and neither did I. Braceley needed a stay at a rest home for a good long while to get away from the drama queens of the theater and the lure of Helen. His story was tragic.
Then we have the Shropshire contingent who know secrets they can't or won't share. Rev. Samuel Halliday seems like a kind, unassuming man. He doesn't know how to leave well enough alone though and could have ruined the investigation. His parents were Christian do-gooders of the mid-Victorian type Dickens loved to poke fun of but they seemed sincere in wanting to help. Emma Larch is an incredible woman! Franny and I are impressed by women who run their own businesses and families with equal aplomb. She's a little tough on her daughter, Susan, but Susan seems like a headstrong teenager without much sense. Emma is more worldly wise and has her reasons for being tough on Susan. I figured that out quickly.
An author's note in the back explains the history of the film industry in Britain. That was a fun aspect of the book and I feel it must still be exciting to see how movies are made, especially in your own hometown. I hear the Ealing Studios tour is quite popular.
I will be moving on to this author's series about Alice Roosevelt, an even more outrageous woman than Lady Frances Ffolks but I hope to read more about Franny in the future.
I absolutely love this series. The story feels very modern though it is set around 1905. Elements of this story are extremely timely including equal pay for equal work and sexual harassment in the entertainment industry. I can easily see Franny supporting Times' Up and Hal donating his legal services! Obviously, these problems that affect us today are nothing new. The Edwardian era was a time of change for women when they began to speak up. Franny is unconventional and modern but the excuse for her behavior is she was educated in America and picked up odd ideas. She never lets her class and religious bias show through, which I really like but this also shows the author is modern and not actually Edwardian. Mallow is more snobby than Franny! They remind me so much of Phryne and Dot in Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. Franny is not as daring as Phryne but is certainly paving the way for Phryne Fisher, Kate Shackleton and the other female sleuths that appear in the 1920s and 30s. Franny has cold feel about marrying Hal. I understand her concerns and would be worried about the same things, but Hal has proven time and time again that he isn't as conventional as he appeared at first. She should trust him more. No love interest for Mallow but I think she could use one. She had one but he seems to have been dropped from the plot.
I dropped my rating to 4 stars instead of 5 because the story really relies on too many coincidences. I figured out Act II of Franny's little play long before she did. I probably would have quit when I figured that out and NOT gone to the lengths Franny did. I also didn't like how she broke the law to get crucial evidence and pulled strings to skirt the law. Even so, I loved the book so much I couldn't put it down. I managed to get halfway through before being too tired to continue last night but when I couldn't sleep this morning, I had to finish!
The mystery was so complicated and involved so many people. Lady Torrance, like many women of her generation, had to put up with a lot from her husband, who does not seem like a good man, though not any different from any other peer. I like her strength and her willingness to accept the truth no matter what. She sounds like a loving mother who never stopped loving and longing for her eldest daughter. Louisa sounds like she was more headstrong and determined than Franny but finally grew up enough to realize what she wanted. I admire her for that. I identify a lot with her and her longing for independence. I wasn't sure what to make of her sister Sarah, Lady Freemantle or her husband at first. They seem like they could be complicated characters but aren't fleshed out much.
Then we have the men who loved beautiful Helen. One loved her like a father, one loved her truly, one loved her madly and one loved the thrill of the chase. She was a Victorian Helen of Troy. I felt sorry for Mr. Mattins. He didn't deserve to die but he wasn't around long enough to get a good feel for his character. I felt bad for Mr. Rusk for not being able to withstand Hurricane Frances! He does his best but seems a little weak spirited. Quentin Prescott is an actor-you know the type. He's a stereotype in every way. Franny didn't like him and neither did I. Braceley needed a stay at a rest home for a good long while to get away from the drama queens of the theater and the lure of Helen. His story was tragic.
Then we have the Shropshire contingent who know secrets they can't or won't share. Rev. Samuel Halliday seems like a kind, unassuming man. He doesn't know how to leave well enough alone though and could have ruined the investigation. His parents were Christian do-gooders of the mid-Victorian type Dickens loved to poke fun of but they seemed sincere in wanting to help. Emma Larch is an incredible woman! Franny and I are impressed by women who run their own businesses and families with equal aplomb. She's a little tough on her daughter, Susan, but Susan seems like a headstrong teenager without much sense. Emma is more worldly wise and has her reasons for being tough on Susan. I figured that out quickly.
An author's note in the back explains the history of the film industry in Britain. That was a fun aspect of the book and I feel it must still be exciting to see how movies are made, especially in your own hometown. I hear the Ealing Studios tour is quite popular.
I will be moving on to this author's series about Alice Roosevelt, an even more outrageous woman than Lady Frances Ffolks but I hope to read more about Franny in the future.
March 23, 2021
It has been a few years since I read the Lady Frances first two books, but was reminded thanks to GR facility of someone liking a review. I wanted to revisit and found this to be a light and lively book describing the brave Lady and her maid involved in hunting for a missing daughter on behalf of another aristo. Lady Frances continues with her nonconformist behavior riding bicycles, learning self defense and digging for truth. They meet George Bernard Shaw and King Edward II during this investigation.
Apparently the author left the series with just three books.
Apparently the author left the series with just three books.
November 22, 2017
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September 11, 2017
Such a remarkable story and also preferable characters.
I am giving my best shot at reviewing this brilliant book that is one of the best mystery novel I have read so far.
Lady Frances Efolkes is an aristocracy that her father was a marquess and now her brother. She is leading suffrage club in early 1900's society. This story, as her first female consulting detective in London, begins from submitting by her family friend to locate Louisa who ran away from home to be an actress in a theatre 30 years ago. As Lady Frances pursues the trace of Louisa, she immerses herself deeply in this secretive mystery. Besides, she steps in glamorous theatre world to chase the veiled riddles.
The plot has full of twists that fascinated and puzzled me till the very end of revealing which sets in dramatic scene appropriate to its splendid ending. Owing to the nicely done writing by author without revealing overwhelming hints, you can pursue the truth of this story by phase.
I am also charmed by the characters and cultural background. The behaviors of each characters who belong to different class society are very interesting. Moreover, Lady Frances is tempting to advancement of ladies in society, she rides on a bicycle, lives in elegant residential hotel for ladies, learn Japanese martial art and so on, even some of her behaviors meet with opposition of her marquesses brother. She is extraordinary and her efficient to people around is amusing. Speaking of people around her, the trusting relationship with her maid, Mallow who is always loyal also clever and also the romance and future prospect with her solicitor fiancé, Hal, such a kind heart he has, are my favorite.
The detective work that she making it samples by Sherlock Holmes is likable as well.
This is the first book I read of this series, as my craving of more mystery I have to start over from very beginning from its series soon.
Thank you Crooked Lane books via Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book.
I am giving my best shot at reviewing this brilliant book that is one of the best mystery novel I have read so far.
Lady Frances Efolkes is an aristocracy that her father was a marquess and now her brother. She is leading suffrage club in early 1900's society. This story, as her first female consulting detective in London, begins from submitting by her family friend to locate Louisa who ran away from home to be an actress in a theatre 30 years ago. As Lady Frances pursues the trace of Louisa, she immerses herself deeply in this secretive mystery. Besides, she steps in glamorous theatre world to chase the veiled riddles.
The plot has full of twists that fascinated and puzzled me till the very end of revealing which sets in dramatic scene appropriate to its splendid ending. Owing to the nicely done writing by author without revealing overwhelming hints, you can pursue the truth of this story by phase.
I am also charmed by the characters and cultural background. The behaviors of each characters who belong to different class society are very interesting. Moreover, Lady Frances is tempting to advancement of ladies in society, she rides on a bicycle, lives in elegant residential hotel for ladies, learn Japanese martial art and so on, even some of her behaviors meet with opposition of her marquesses brother. She is extraordinary and her efficient to people around is amusing. Speaking of people around her, the trusting relationship with her maid, Mallow who is always loyal also clever and also the romance and future prospect with her solicitor fiancé, Hal, such a kind heart he has, are my favorite.
The detective work that she making it samples by Sherlock Holmes is likable as well.
This is the first book I read of this series, as my craving of more mystery I have to start over from very beginning from its series soon.
Thank you Crooked Lane books via Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book.
August 12, 2017
I LOVED IT!!!! The best mystery/thriller book I have read so far this year! I finished this book 2 days ago, and I still can’t get out from Lady Frances’ world!! I’ve been feeling sad that I already finished reading this book, and I’m hoping to re-read it soon!!
Lady Frances, a daughter of a former marquess and a sister of a current marquess, is a renowned suffragist and the first woman detective. One day, she receives a letter from an elderly woman, Lady Torrence, who is on her last attempt to search for her long-lost daughter, Louisa, who has changed her name and had started working as a theater actress when she disappeared more than 30 years ago. Frances takes the job, and visits her last known site, the Emerald theater. However, at the interview of “Louisa” with her ex coworkers, Frances soon realizes that they are hiding something. She ends up leaving the theater without any kind of information regarding “Louisa” nor figuring out the name Louisa adopted, but soon finds out one of the interviewees, Mr. Mattins, is stabbed to death right after the Frances’s visit. Someone has killed him to keep his month shut. After his death, Frances sneaks in Mr. Mattins’ room and steals a box that was hidden under his bed. In the box, Frances finds several clues that would help her figure out what has happened to “Louisa” , including the first clue which indicates “Louisa” had adopted a name “Helen”.
So the story is about Frances and her assistance/maid Mallow try to identify the killer and to locate “Helen’s” whereabouts. I have read many detective books, but this one was one of the best! Unlike the other books which reveal the killer in the beginning of the story or the ones you can easily guess, you can read this book through the eyes of a detective. In other words, there are lots of investigations involve, and you won’t be able to know who the killer is until the very end of the story! And not only that, the killer is revealed by a great surprise with a very dramatic way, and then you will realize that you have been deceived all along! For that, I praise Koreto for his skillful writing. He is very good at not giving away too much information and details for readers not to easily figure out who is “Helen” or the killer.
I also liked the time setting of this story. The setting takes you to the early 1900s of London; Lady Frances being a noble born woman made everything a little bit more fun. For example, Frances and Mallow take advantage of Frances’ ladyship status a lot to interview people without being questioned lol And her social status helps them seek help from the right people when they need it.
“ladyship is not accustomed to having her word questioned.”—by Mallow
“She(Frances) is not accustomed to answering questioned.”—by Mallow
I loved how the story reflected a mind and a role of women in early 1900s , too. Although Frances is being a very active feminist (she rides a bicycles, practices martial art, being suffragist and a woman detective, and believes in gender equality), she does however become uncertain and unsure of the choice of her profession when it comes to her fiance Henry. Regardless of Henry being extremely understanding and supportive of her profession, she gets caught up in thoughts of being a traditional wife and what the society expects of her and of her status. This element has expanded Frances character much more likable. Well, in my opinion. Because I think everyone can relate the feeling of the pressure society gives you. What you want to do and what you want to be sometimes don’t fit in the role society expects from you.
Although this book is rather a heavy read with many characters and plots, I could finish it in 2 sittings. I just couldn’t put it down! Also, I haven’t read the first and the second books of this series, so I’m looking forward to reading them, too!!
I rate this book 5 stars based on the rating below.
(1 star: couldn’t finish, 2 stars: made myself finish it, 3 stars: I liked it💕, 4 stars: I loved it💕💕, 5 stars: loved enough to reread it!!)
Thank you very much for reading my review!!
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
Lady Frances, a daughter of a former marquess and a sister of a current marquess, is a renowned suffragist and the first woman detective. One day, she receives a letter from an elderly woman, Lady Torrence, who is on her last attempt to search for her long-lost daughter, Louisa, who has changed her name and had started working as a theater actress when she disappeared more than 30 years ago. Frances takes the job, and visits her last known site, the Emerald theater. However, at the interview of “Louisa” with her ex coworkers, Frances soon realizes that they are hiding something. She ends up leaving the theater without any kind of information regarding “Louisa” nor figuring out the name Louisa adopted, but soon finds out one of the interviewees, Mr. Mattins, is stabbed to death right after the Frances’s visit. Someone has killed him to keep his month shut. After his death, Frances sneaks in Mr. Mattins’ room and steals a box that was hidden under his bed. In the box, Frances finds several clues that would help her figure out what has happened to “Louisa” , including the first clue which indicates “Louisa” had adopted a name “Helen”.
So the story is about Frances and her assistance/maid Mallow try to identify the killer and to locate “Helen’s” whereabouts. I have read many detective books, but this one was one of the best! Unlike the other books which reveal the killer in the beginning of the story or the ones you can easily guess, you can read this book through the eyes of a detective. In other words, there are lots of investigations involve, and you won’t be able to know who the killer is until the very end of the story! And not only that, the killer is revealed by a great surprise with a very dramatic way, and then you will realize that you have been deceived all along! For that, I praise Koreto for his skillful writing. He is very good at not giving away too much information and details for readers not to easily figure out who is “Helen” or the killer.
I also liked the time setting of this story. The setting takes you to the early 1900s of London; Lady Frances being a noble born woman made everything a little bit more fun. For example, Frances and Mallow take advantage of Frances’ ladyship status a lot to interview people without being questioned lol And her social status helps them seek help from the right people when they need it.
“ladyship is not accustomed to having her word questioned.”—by Mallow
“She(Frances) is not accustomed to answering questioned.”—by Mallow
I loved how the story reflected a mind and a role of women in early 1900s , too. Although Frances is being a very active feminist (she rides a bicycles, practices martial art, being suffragist and a woman detective, and believes in gender equality), she does however become uncertain and unsure of the choice of her profession when it comes to her fiance Henry. Regardless of Henry being extremely understanding and supportive of her profession, she gets caught up in thoughts of being a traditional wife and what the society expects of her and of her status. This element has expanded Frances character much more likable. Well, in my opinion. Because I think everyone can relate the feeling of the pressure society gives you. What you want to do and what you want to be sometimes don’t fit in the role society expects from you.
Although this book is rather a heavy read with many characters and plots, I could finish it in 2 sittings. I just couldn’t put it down! Also, I haven’t read the first and the second books of this series, so I’m looking forward to reading them, too!!
I rate this book 5 stars based on the rating below.
(1 star: couldn’t finish, 2 stars: made myself finish it, 3 stars: I liked it💕, 4 stars: I loved it💕💕, 5 stars: loved enough to reread it!!)
Thank you very much for reading my review!!
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
February 15, 2020
Lady Ffolkes Stages a Play
All the world's a stage, Shakespeare wrote, and all the men and women merely players ... Franny Ffolkes and June Mallow are up to their sleuthing again. Having heard of Lady Ffolkes reputation, Lady Torrance engages her to find her long lost daughter ... and the fun begins.
All our favorites from the previous two books play a role ... and one man in his time plays many parts. You'll love this third book in the series. I was so taken with Lady Ffolkes I bought and read all three books one after the other. I only hope this is not the last of her adventures.
All the world's a stage, Shakespeare wrote, and all the men and women merely players ... Franny Ffolkes and June Mallow are up to their sleuthing again. Having heard of Lady Ffolkes reputation, Lady Torrance engages her to find her long lost daughter ... and the fun begins.
All our favorites from the previous two books play a role ... and one man in his time plays many parts. You'll love this third book in the series. I was so taken with Lady Ffolkes I bought and read all three books one after the other. I only hope this is not the last of her adventures.
July 27, 2020
Such well written books - right on up there with Dick Francis.
Engaging, well written - just the right amount of action vs thought (please deliver me from cozies that are non stop detailed descriptions of scenes and non stop verbal questioning chatter instead of actual action and dialogue to fill the pages and make the number count!!)
Wish there were more in this series.
It's the pompous actor who committed both murders.
The religious man is the son (saw that coming), and the dowdy shopkeeper was the beautiful actress.
Engaging, well written - just the right amount of action vs thought (please deliver me from cozies that are non stop detailed descriptions of scenes and non stop verbal questioning chatter instead of actual action and dialogue to fill the pages and make the number count!!)
Wish there were more in this series.
It's the pompous actor who committed both murders.
The religious man is the son (saw that coming), and the dowdy shopkeeper was the beautiful actress.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2017
I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Lady Frances Ffolkes is a most unconventional character in Edwardian England. She is a suffragist who studies martial arts and prefers to travel through the city by bicycle rather than carriage. She has been involved in several investigations and has now settled into the role of private detective. Just as Sherlock had Watson, Lady Frances has Mallow, her maid who assists her on her inquiries.
In R.J. Koreto’s third installment in this series, Lady Frances is hired by Lady Torrence to find her daughter Louisa, who disappeared thirty years earlier. Louisa is traced to the Emerald Theater, where she changed her name to Helen. She was a beautiful addition to the Green Players and captured the hearts of four men at the theater. The four made an agreement to support whoever she chose, but when she chooses the theater’s accountant, one of them breaks the pact. With her husband murdered, Helen disappears. When Lady Frances begins asking questions at the Emerald, one of Helen’s former suitors is murdered and she finds herself being followed by a threatening figure. She is not one to give up and is determined to discover Louisa’s fate and put Lady Torrence’s mind at rest.
Koreto uses illusion and misdirection to hide the identity of Lady Frances’ stalker and Helen’s fate. The investigation takes her behind the scenes at the theater and into a studio in the early days of motion pictures. Her discoveries are often surprising and she reveals her solution using stagecraft at the Emerald. Fans of Sherry Thomas’ Lady Sherlock series or Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series will find an irresistible character in Lady Frances Ffolkes.
Lady Frances Ffolkes is a most unconventional character in Edwardian England. She is a suffragist who studies martial arts and prefers to travel through the city by bicycle rather than carriage. She has been involved in several investigations and has now settled into the role of private detective. Just as Sherlock had Watson, Lady Frances has Mallow, her maid who assists her on her inquiries.
In R.J. Koreto’s third installment in this series, Lady Frances is hired by Lady Torrence to find her daughter Louisa, who disappeared thirty years earlier. Louisa is traced to the Emerald Theater, where she changed her name to Helen. She was a beautiful addition to the Green Players and captured the hearts of four men at the theater. The four made an agreement to support whoever she chose, but when she chooses the theater’s accountant, one of them breaks the pact. With her husband murdered, Helen disappears. When Lady Frances begins asking questions at the Emerald, one of Helen’s former suitors is murdered and she finds herself being followed by a threatening figure. She is not one to give up and is determined to discover Louisa’s fate and put Lady Torrence’s mind at rest.
Koreto uses illusion and misdirection to hide the identity of Lady Frances’ stalker and Helen’s fate. The investigation takes her behind the scenes at the theater and into a studio in the early days of motion pictures. Her discoveries are often surprising and she reveals her solution using stagecraft at the Emerald. Fans of Sherry Thomas’ Lady Sherlock series or Deanna Raybourn’s Veronica Speedwell series will find an irresistible character in Lady Frances Ffolkes.
November 16, 2017
This review originally appeared on my blog: http://www.bookclublibrarian.com/
With two solved cases to her credit and deductive skills that rival the great Sherlock Holmes, Lady Frances's reputation as London's first female consulting detective is firmly established. In this latest installment, Franny is retained by Lady Beatrice Torrence to investigate the fate of her daughter who disappeared in 1875 after leaving home to join the Green Players theater group rather than become the companion to an officer's widow abroad. Seeking peace of mind about her beloved rebellious child, the aging Lady Torrence asks Frances to either find her daughter or proof of her death.
Lady Frances, accompanied by her loyal maid June Mallow, begins the investigation at the Emerald Theater, home to the Green Players, where she interviews actors and theater workers, some of whom were in the theater's employ thirty years ago and knew the actress. Several had harbored romantic feelings and were unsettled when the actress married someone not connected to the theater and left to pursue a life abroad. Although the information initially shared isn't particularly enlightening to the case, there is a hint of secrets yet to be revealed. And when one of the men recently questioned is found dead in an alley behind the theater, Lady Frances delves deeper into the past, leading her on an at times dangerous path to uncover the truth. She and Mallow work tirelessly and creatively to solve the mystery of Miss Torrence's disappearance and give closure to her family.
Death at the Emerald is an engaging, entertaining mystery with a fascinating cast of characters. In addition to colorful theater folk, clergy, and people from different levels of society, there are cameo appearances by historical figures including the playwright George Bernard Shaw: King Edward VII and his mistress Alice Keppel (the real life great-grandmother of Camilla Parker Bowles); and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the first female British doctor. There are also amusing references to Sherlock Holmes and a Downton Abbey flair, and I commend the author for his creative detail and historical accuracy. Although the book can be read as a stand alone, once readers make the acquaintance of the high-spirited Lady Frances, they will surely want to follow her adventures by reading the previous two books in the series.
Koreto's Lady Frances Ffolkes series features a lead character who is an unconventional woman determined to blaze her own trail -- despite her privileged birth -- in a world on the brink of change. A titled member of the aristocracy, Franny refuses to be defined by accepted social norms, much to the admiration of her fiance, the solicitor Henry Wheaton and the dismay of her brother, the marquess of Seaforth, Undersecretary for European Affairs in the Foreign Office. Unlike her peers, Franny is an alumna of Vassar College and a suffragist. In contrast to other single young women of the time who live with their families, Lady Frances lives with her maid at Miss Plimsoll's, a residential hotel intended for elderly widows. She takes classes in juyutsu and rides about town on a bicycle. Comfortable in her own skin, Frances is considered "eccentric," "odd," and "mad" by those in her own social circle, but this memorable character is anything but that to me. And while each book in the series has a different gem in its title, the real gem is Lady Frances herself. I look forward to her continuing escapades in the books to come.
Anglophiles, fans of stories with strong female protagonists, cozy mystery readers, and historical fiction aficionados are sure to be delighted by this series.
With two solved cases to her credit and deductive skills that rival the great Sherlock Holmes, Lady Frances's reputation as London's first female consulting detective is firmly established. In this latest installment, Franny is retained by Lady Beatrice Torrence to investigate the fate of her daughter who disappeared in 1875 after leaving home to join the Green Players theater group rather than become the companion to an officer's widow abroad. Seeking peace of mind about her beloved rebellious child, the aging Lady Torrence asks Frances to either find her daughter or proof of her death.
Lady Frances, accompanied by her loyal maid June Mallow, begins the investigation at the Emerald Theater, home to the Green Players, where she interviews actors and theater workers, some of whom were in the theater's employ thirty years ago and knew the actress. Several had harbored romantic feelings and were unsettled when the actress married someone not connected to the theater and left to pursue a life abroad. Although the information initially shared isn't particularly enlightening to the case, there is a hint of secrets yet to be revealed. And when one of the men recently questioned is found dead in an alley behind the theater, Lady Frances delves deeper into the past, leading her on an at times dangerous path to uncover the truth. She and Mallow work tirelessly and creatively to solve the mystery of Miss Torrence's disappearance and give closure to her family.
Death at the Emerald is an engaging, entertaining mystery with a fascinating cast of characters. In addition to colorful theater folk, clergy, and people from different levels of society, there are cameo appearances by historical figures including the playwright George Bernard Shaw: King Edward VII and his mistress Alice Keppel (the real life great-grandmother of Camilla Parker Bowles); and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the first female British doctor. There are also amusing references to Sherlock Holmes and a Downton Abbey flair, and I commend the author for his creative detail and historical accuracy. Although the book can be read as a stand alone, once readers make the acquaintance of the high-spirited Lady Frances, they will surely want to follow her adventures by reading the previous two books in the series.
Koreto's Lady Frances Ffolkes series features a lead character who is an unconventional woman determined to blaze her own trail -- despite her privileged birth -- in a world on the brink of change. A titled member of the aristocracy, Franny refuses to be defined by accepted social norms, much to the admiration of her fiance, the solicitor Henry Wheaton and the dismay of her brother, the marquess of Seaforth, Undersecretary for European Affairs in the Foreign Office. Unlike her peers, Franny is an alumna of Vassar College and a suffragist. In contrast to other single young women of the time who live with their families, Lady Frances lives with her maid at Miss Plimsoll's, a residential hotel intended for elderly widows. She takes classes in juyutsu and rides about town on a bicycle. Comfortable in her own skin, Frances is considered "eccentric," "odd," and "mad" by those in her own social circle, but this memorable character is anything but that to me. And while each book in the series has a different gem in its title, the real gem is Lady Frances herself. I look forward to her continuing escapades in the books to come.
Anglophiles, fans of stories with strong female protagonists, cozy mystery readers, and historical fiction aficionados are sure to be delighted by this series.
September 21, 2017
This is the third in the Lady Frances Ffolkes mystery series by R.J. Koreto.
I was unfamiliar with the series before this installment and it works perfectly well as a standalone mystery. I will be picking up the others in the series.
I really engaged with Lady Frances from the beginning. She's intelligent and well spoken and able to take care of herself. She and her personal maid have a sort of Holmes and Watson dynamic (which Lady Frances refers to often). They're engaged by an elderly family acquaintance to find out what happened to the friend's daughter over 30 years ago. It's the coldest of cold cases and Lady Frances agrees to investigate while maintaining at least some social decorum.
The characters are easy to relate to and well written. The dialogue and narrative flow naturally and are enjoyable. It's a very light fun mystery and the fact that Lady Frances doesn't suffer any real social stigma from her very unconventional lifestyle or habits isn't a deal breaker.
It reminds me a bit of Carola Dunn's Daisy Dalrymple series or even Kerry Greenwood's wonderful Phryne Fisher books (but more chaste and cleaner :) I enjoy cozy period mysteries and even though Mr. Koreto's Edwardian London isn't slavishly drawn from real history, it's still easily recognizable as London.
The mystery itself is well written and the denouement is satisfying.
Four stars, well worth a look.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher
I was unfamiliar with the series before this installment and it works perfectly well as a standalone mystery. I will be picking up the others in the series.
I really engaged with Lady Frances from the beginning. She's intelligent and well spoken and able to take care of herself. She and her personal maid have a sort of Holmes and Watson dynamic (which Lady Frances refers to often). They're engaged by an elderly family acquaintance to find out what happened to the friend's daughter over 30 years ago. It's the coldest of cold cases and Lady Frances agrees to investigate while maintaining at least some social decorum.
The characters are easy to relate to and well written. The dialogue and narrative flow naturally and are enjoyable. It's a very light fun mystery and the fact that Lady Frances doesn't suffer any real social stigma from her very unconventional lifestyle or habits isn't a deal breaker.
It reminds me a bit of Carola Dunn's Daisy Dalrymple series or even Kerry Greenwood's wonderful Phryne Fisher books (but more chaste and cleaner :) I enjoy cozy period mysteries and even though Mr. Koreto's Edwardian London isn't slavishly drawn from real history, it's still easily recognizable as London.
The mystery itself is well written and the denouement is satisfying.
Four stars, well worth a look.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher
November 14, 2017
I’ve encountered few historicals as cleverly plotted as RJ Koreto’s Death at the Emerald. Lady France's Ffolkes is an innovator, a feminist who uses her position to challenge convention, just as her lady’s maid Mallow is the perfect servant - a supporter and confidant who pairs acceptable behavior with acting as Lady Frances’s “Watson”. Koreto skillfully paints a picture of a society in the midst of change, a society where class means everything.
Lady France's Ffolkes is asked to investigate the disappearance of a young woman 30 years previous. Her family assumes she is dead, but one family friend wants Lady Frances to uncover the truth behind the young beauty’s disappearance. The trail begins at the Emerald Theater and leads them on a merry chase that begins and ends with murder. Expect to meet a few historical figures and see how a motion picture is made. It is an intriguing mystery where women’s issues play an important role.
I highly recommend Death at the Emerald to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries, particularly those set in Edwardian times.
5 / 5
I received a copy of Death at the Emerald from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
Lady France's Ffolkes is asked to investigate the disappearance of a young woman 30 years previous. Her family assumes she is dead, but one family friend wants Lady Frances to uncover the truth behind the young beauty’s disappearance. The trail begins at the Emerald Theater and leads them on a merry chase that begins and ends with murder. Expect to meet a few historical figures and see how a motion picture is made. It is an intriguing mystery where women’s issues play an important role.
I highly recommend Death at the Emerald to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries, particularly those set in Edwardian times.
5 / 5
I received a copy of Death at the Emerald from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
--Crittermom
June 20, 2018
I won this book on Facebook in a contest. What an outstanding mystery it is. Set in the early 20th century in London, England it is a fascinating mystery involving the wealthy and the theater. Lady Frances Ffolkes inadvertently meets an elderly woman of the wealthy gentry who decides to engage Lady Frances to find her missing daughter who has not been heard from for over thirty years. Lady Frances and her maid, Miss Mallow, who is her "Watson" begin their investigation by entering the theater district where Louisa was last seen. She finds that there was a group of six men who were all enthralled with an actress named Helen. By her sleuthing, Lady Frances deducts that Helen is really Louisa. She traces her to the countryside where it appears that she died of fever 30 years ago. Sensing that everyone she encounters are hiding things Lady Frances believes that Louisa or Helen didn't really die. Traveling thru many small English towns, chasing down a couple of murders and at the same time hobnobbing with Kings and actors alike, Lady Frances leads one on a massive hunt to discover the truth of Helen/Louisa's disappearance. This is an awesome, fast paced, thrilling ride with the outlandish and beguiling Lady Frances Ffolkes as a character you will love. I highly recommend this book to all mystery readers.
November 30, 2017
Lady Fran and June Mallow are on another case. Asked by a grieving mother to find out what happened to her long-lost daughter, Lady Frances takes on the case.
She's led into the world of professional theater, where she learns that what looks beautiful under the stage lights bears little resemblance to the reality. As she is reminded by one of the 20th century's great playwrights, everything in the theater is a lie. It may charm, distract, entertain, but it's all lies.
It's up to Frances and Mallow to listen to the lies, do their research, evade a stalker, and solve the disappearance of the mysterious lady.
I am enjoying this series so much and hope Lady Frances and Mallow get many more jewels. Opals, tourmalines, diamonds, topazes, amethysts, bring them on!
She's led into the world of professional theater, where she learns that what looks beautiful under the stage lights bears little resemblance to the reality. As she is reminded by one of the 20th century's great playwrights, everything in the theater is a lie. It may charm, distract, entertain, but it's all lies.
It's up to Frances and Mallow to listen to the lies, do their research, evade a stalker, and solve the disappearance of the mysterious lady.
I am enjoying this series so much and hope Lady Frances and Mallow get many more jewels. Opals, tourmalines, diamonds, topazes, amethysts, bring them on!
May 19, 2018
My favorite Lady Frances and Miss Mallow venture so far! Bicycle-riding-suffragette-noble turned lady-consulting-detective, Lady Frances and her lady's maid, Miss Mallow, knock the staid and hide-bound on their collective arses--quite literally in at least in one case, as they work to solve a 30-year old mystery that may just include a murder far closer to home. I truly look forward to the next adventures--and think this series would make a delightful on-screen showing along with the likes of The Murdoch Mysteries and the Miss Fisher Mysteries.
April 21, 2020
I loved this book! Lady Frances and Mallow are fantastic characters. I loved their banter. Mallow may be one of my new favorite sidekicks. I also liked the Edwardian era setting and the sprinkle of actual people and events into the narrative.
The mystery was fun, but not too difficult to get-- I figured it out really early. That didn't lessen my enjoyment at all. It was still fun to go along for the ride.
If you like Phryne Fisher or the Murdoch Mysteries you would probably really enjoy this series.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
The mystery was fun, but not too difficult to get-- I figured it out really early. That didn't lessen my enjoyment at all. It was still fun to go along for the ride.
If you like Phryne Fisher or the Murdoch Mysteries you would probably really enjoy this series.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
May 21, 2020
*Death at the Emerald* set in 1907 London sparkles with wry British wit.
Sample:
"Susan Lockton is here, my lady, sneaking around her mother to work on the costumes. I told her we'd keep her secret."
"You told her you'd tell an untruth?" teased Frances.
"In Proverbs, m lady, the Bible talks about the virtuous woman, saying, 'She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 'We're just helping Miss Lockton live a virtuous life."
"I don't think there's a theologian alive who could dispute your reasoning."
Sample:
"Susan Lockton is here, my lady, sneaking around her mother to work on the costumes. I told her we'd keep her secret."
"You told her you'd tell an untruth?" teased Frances.
"In Proverbs, m lady, the Bible talks about the virtuous woman, saying, 'She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 'We're just helping Miss Lockton live a virtuous life."
"I don't think there's a theologian alive who could dispute your reasoning."
January 23, 2018
I had pretty much guessed most of the mystery about half way thru book but the process was still entertaining. I am amused by the view of Edwardian life with a little sadness that the Great War is in the future for all these characters. (Not really an HEA coming for them.)
February 12, 2018
Was a really good story! Enjoyed. Recommend!
April 12, 2018
A lovely little murder mystery.
June 9, 2019
Another wonderful addition to the series!!! Is a fourth book upcoming???!!!
Read
March 1, 2020Categories
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Lady Frances Ffolkes Mystery
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Lady Frances Ffolkes Mystery
March 15, 2020
I really liked this book. Lady Frances reminds me a bit of Phryne Fisher and I loved the Phryne Fisher books.
April 1, 2020
Excellent book, could not put it down. Read it in one day. Loved the first 2 as well.
June 1, 2021
I've enjoyed this series. I like the characters. I wish there were more books in this series.
December 8, 2017
This is the third book in the Lady Frances Ffolkes series. Expect spoilers for the first two books in the review below!
________________________________________________________________________________
Lady Frances is still turning heads. Having returned to London after the events of the last book, she seeks a way to turn her experience solving mysteries into something of a detective role. Gossip having arrived before she did, Lady Frances soon finds herself helping an elderly dowager find her daughter, missing for over thirty years. Taking to the case with enthusiasm, Lady Frances and her loyal maid, June Mallow dive into the world of theatre, moving pictures, secret pacts, and mysterious stalkers. Determined to prove that she is capable of becoming a real-life “Lady Sherlock,” Lady Frances refuses to give up the hunt, even as her own safety is threatened.
I love this series. R.J. Koreto, who also writes the Alice and the Assassin series, does a great female lead. Lady Frances is forward and clever, but her intellect is human, and does not ascend the remote and reptilian heights employed by a Sherlock Holmes. Lady Frances makes mistakes, and overlooks clues, but her tenacity and quick mind generally lead her aright. As a result, the character is very relatable. Rather than feeling like the protagonist is so far beyond you as to be a separate species all together, Lady Frances is like the clever friend you always like spending time with.
June Mallow is also a lovely character. Where Lady Frances holds her strength in her boldness and willingness to write her own rulebook, Mallow finds her strength in quiet determination and an unflagging loyalty to those she loves. The relationship between both characters is the best kind of friendship, where each character’s strengths are offset by the other’s weaknesses, and vice versa. The two women may exasperate one another on occasion, but by and large they function much better together.
Fans of female-fronted mystery series will love this book. Fans of Victoria Thompson and Deanna Raybourn should definitely add this book to their TBR lists!
An advance copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
________________________________________________________________________________
Lady Frances is still turning heads. Having returned to London after the events of the last book, she seeks a way to turn her experience solving mysteries into something of a detective role. Gossip having arrived before she did, Lady Frances soon finds herself helping an elderly dowager find her daughter, missing for over thirty years. Taking to the case with enthusiasm, Lady Frances and her loyal maid, June Mallow dive into the world of theatre, moving pictures, secret pacts, and mysterious stalkers. Determined to prove that she is capable of becoming a real-life “Lady Sherlock,” Lady Frances refuses to give up the hunt, even as her own safety is threatened.
I love this series. R.J. Koreto, who also writes the Alice and the Assassin series, does a great female lead. Lady Frances is forward and clever, but her intellect is human, and does not ascend the remote and reptilian heights employed by a Sherlock Holmes. Lady Frances makes mistakes, and overlooks clues, but her tenacity and quick mind generally lead her aright. As a result, the character is very relatable. Rather than feeling like the protagonist is so far beyond you as to be a separate species all together, Lady Frances is like the clever friend you always like spending time with.
June Mallow is also a lovely character. Where Lady Frances holds her strength in her boldness and willingness to write her own rulebook, Mallow finds her strength in quiet determination and an unflagging loyalty to those she loves. The relationship between both characters is the best kind of friendship, where each character’s strengths are offset by the other’s weaknesses, and vice versa. The two women may exasperate one another on occasion, but by and large they function much better together.
Fans of female-fronted mystery series will love this book. Fans of Victoria Thompson and Deanna Raybourn should definitely add this book to their TBR lists!
An advance copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2017
Lady Frances Ffolkes and her intrepid maid/assistant Miss Mallow have another case. Lady Torrance has heard about Frances's previous cases and has hired her to locate her daughter who ran away from home about thirty years earlier.
Lady Frances's investigations take her into London's theater world where Louisa fled taking the stage name of Helen. While Frances finds men who loved her, Helen is long gone. When Helen learns that one of the men who loved her has been killed, she knows that she is on the right track.
Lady Frances and Mallow investigate and try to retrace Helen's path. There are secrets within secrets in this story complicated by the fact that theater folks are used to illusions, secrets, and disguises. Meanwhile, Frances is considering how her work as London's first female private investigator is going to mesh with her marriage to a prominent solicitor.
The setting was great. I enjoyed the mystery and thought it was a nicely complex story. I enjoyed the glimpse into the motion picture industry. I also enjoy that Frances is a suffragist while still being part of the upper class and not even really realizing how privileged her life is.
Fans of historical mysteries will enjoy this one.
Lady Frances's investigations take her into London's theater world where Louisa fled taking the stage name of Helen. While Frances finds men who loved her, Helen is long gone. When Helen learns that one of the men who loved her has been killed, she knows that she is on the right track.
Lady Frances and Mallow investigate and try to retrace Helen's path. There are secrets within secrets in this story complicated by the fact that theater folks are used to illusions, secrets, and disguises. Meanwhile, Frances is considering how her work as London's first female private investigator is going to mesh with her marriage to a prominent solicitor.
The setting was great. I enjoyed the mystery and thought it was a nicely complex story. I enjoyed the glimpse into the motion picture industry. I also enjoy that Frances is a suffragist while still being part of the upper class and not even really realizing how privileged her life is.
Fans of historical mysteries will enjoy this one.
July 26, 2017
I would like to thank Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance copy of Death at the Emerald, the third novel to feature Lady Frances Ffolkes, set in Edwardian London.
Lady Frances is approached by Lady Beatrice Torrence who asks her if she can find her daughter, Louisa, who ran away to become an actress 30 years ago and has never been seen since.
I enjoyed Death at the Emerald which is a fun, if slightly preposterous, read. The plotting is suitably melodramatic for an era where the shame of having a daughter on the stage was too much to admit as it was regarded as one step up from prostitution. I must admit to guessing the main thrust of the plot early on and spending the rest of the novel waiting for "Franny" to catch up. Not that it really matters as most of the charm of the novel comes from Franny and her escapades.
I'm not quite sure that the thoroughly modern Franny is possible in Edwardian times (surely the less acceptable in modern day parlance diminutive of her name,Fanny, would have been used at the time?) but I dropped my suspicions and just went with the fun and exhilaration of her character. She is a suffragist bent on not just votes but equality for women, scandalously for an unwed woman lives with her maid in a hotel, rides a bicycle and is learning jujitsu. In other words a modern woman in a period setting. She is also tenacious, indefatigable, smart and witty, mistress of a good put down when required.
Death at the Emerald is a fun read and Franny's exploits and one liners had me chortling throughout. I can recommend it to anyone looking for a light read.
Lady Frances is approached by Lady Beatrice Torrence who asks her if she can find her daughter, Louisa, who ran away to become an actress 30 years ago and has never been seen since.
I enjoyed Death at the Emerald which is a fun, if slightly preposterous, read. The plotting is suitably melodramatic for an era where the shame of having a daughter on the stage was too much to admit as it was regarded as one step up from prostitution. I must admit to guessing the main thrust of the plot early on and spending the rest of the novel waiting for "Franny" to catch up. Not that it really matters as most of the charm of the novel comes from Franny and her escapades.
I'm not quite sure that the thoroughly modern Franny is possible in Edwardian times (surely the less acceptable in modern day parlance diminutive of her name,Fanny, would have been used at the time?) but I dropped my suspicions and just went with the fun and exhilaration of her character. She is a suffragist bent on not just votes but equality for women, scandalously for an unwed woman lives with her maid in a hotel, rides a bicycle and is learning jujitsu. In other words a modern woman in a period setting. She is also tenacious, indefatigable, smart and witty, mistress of a good put down when required.
Death at the Emerald is a fun read and Franny's exploits and one liners had me chortling throughout. I can recommend it to anyone looking for a light read.
December 3, 2017
Couldn't Stop Reading
I even enjoyed waiting for a train to pass so that I could open my Kindle app and read one more page.
I even enjoyed waiting for a train to pass so that I could open my Kindle app and read one more page.
April 28, 2021
The author is amazing!
I loved this book!
Many thanks to the author ... I was left breathless and tears in my eyes with the ending!
I loved this book!
Many thanks to the author ... I was left breathless and tears in my eyes with the ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews