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Henrietta and Inspector Howard #2
A Ring of Truth
Listening Length: 12 hours and 5 minutes
Newly engaged, Clive and Henrietta now begin the difficult task of meeting each other's family. Difficult because Clive has neglected to tell Henrietta that he is in fact the heir to the Howard estate and fortune, and Henrietta has just discovered that her mother has been hiding secrets about her past as well.
When Clive brings Henrietta to the family estate to meet his parents, they are less than enthused about his impoverished intended. Left alone in this extravagant new world when Clive returns to the city, Henrietta finds herself more at home with the servants than his family, much to the disapproval of Mrs. Howard and soon gets caught up in the disappearance of an elderly servant's ring, not realizing that in doing so she has become part of a bigger, darker plot.
As Clive and Henrietta attempt to discover the truth in the two very different worlds unraveling around them, they both begin to wonder: Are they meant for each other after all?
Newly engaged, Clive and Henrietta now begin the difficult task of meeting each other's family. Difficult because Clive has neglected to tell Henrietta that he is in fact the heir to the Howard estate and fortune, and Henrietta has just discovered that her mother has been hiding secrets about her past as well.
When Clive brings Henrietta to the family estate to meet his parents, they are less than enthused about his impoverished intended. Left alone in this extravagant new world when Clive returns to the city, Henrietta finds herself more at home with the servants than his family, much to the disapproval of Mrs. Howard and soon gets caught up in the disappearance of an elderly servant's ring, not realizing that in doing so she has become part of a bigger, darker plot.
As Clive and Henrietta attempt to discover the truth in the two very different worlds unraveling around them, they both begin to wonder: Are they meant for each other after all?
13 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 4, 2017
1330 people are currently reading
1468 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Cox
11 books1,954 followersMichelle Cox has always been obsessed with stories of the past and has spent a lifetime collecting them. She is the award-winning author of historical fiction, including the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series, The Fallen Woman’s Daughter, and The Merriweather Novels. Cox also pens the wildly popular, “Novel Notes of Local Lore,” a weekly blog chronicling the lives of Chicago’s forgotten residents.
She lives in the northern suburbs of Chicago with her husband, an assortment of children who continually leave and then come back, and one naughty Goldendoodle. Unbeknownst to most, she hoards board games she doesn’t have time to play and is, not surprisingly, in love with both Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart. Likewise, she is happily addicted to period dramas and big band music. Also marmalade.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
She lives in the northern suburbs of Chicago with her husband, an assortment of children who continually leave and then come back, and one naughty Goldendoodle. Unbeknownst to most, she hoards board games she doesn’t have time to play and is, not surprisingly, in love with both Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart. Likewise, she is happily addicted to period dramas and big band music. Also marmalade.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
March 19, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to first and foremost thank the author for a clean romance. The main characters are very mindful of preserving sex for marriage. Things get a little heated a time or two, but there are no graphic descriptions, and Clive and Henrietta always remind themselves they want to wait until they are married. At one point, Clive even points out once that though they are engaged, he wants to take her to the marriage altar, unsullied even by him. I really appreciate someone willing to write characters this way, even when the book is set in a time period where it was becoming more acceptable to have affairs.
I did not read the first book in the series - although I certainly will now - but I did not feel lost here. I felt like the characters gave enough background to kind of fill in what happened, but not so much that it will spoil it to go back and read book one. Clearly there is also at least one more book to come, and I will absolutely be reading it.
Clive and Henrietta were very well-developed characters. I felt like their emotional struggles were real and not whiny. There love is written in a very deep and heartfelt way - not wishy-washy or superficial as romantic struggles are often wont to be.
I also loved the overall plot - I was blindsided along with the characters when they realized the trap that had been sprung. All along I thought the story was leading one direction, then out of nowhere, you realize why you had the sinking feeling some of these characters were trouble from the start. I loved the period society details, and the dialogue and clothing descriptions were historically accurate.
I had never read Michelle Cox before, but it's a name that will definitely grab my attention from here on.
I would like to first and foremost thank the author for a clean romance. The main characters are very mindful of preserving sex for marriage. Things get a little heated a time or two, but there are no graphic descriptions, and Clive and Henrietta always remind themselves they want to wait until they are married. At one point, Clive even points out once that though they are engaged, he wants to take her to the marriage altar, unsullied even by him. I really appreciate someone willing to write characters this way, even when the book is set in a time period where it was becoming more acceptable to have affairs.
I did not read the first book in the series - although I certainly will now - but I did not feel lost here. I felt like the characters gave enough background to kind of fill in what happened, but not so much that it will spoil it to go back and read book one. Clearly there is also at least one more book to come, and I will absolutely be reading it.
Clive and Henrietta were very well-developed characters. I felt like their emotional struggles were real and not whiny. There love is written in a very deep and heartfelt way - not wishy-washy or superficial as romantic struggles are often wont to be.
I also loved the overall plot - I was blindsided along with the characters when they realized the trap that had been sprung. All along I thought the story was leading one direction, then out of nowhere, you realize why you had the sinking feeling some of these characters were trouble from the start. I loved the period society details, and the dialogue and clothing descriptions were historically accurate.
I had never read Michelle Cox before, but it's a name that will definitely grab my attention from here on.
April 29, 2017
This is my first introduction to this series. I did not feel like I missed much having not read the first book in this series. A good testament of how well a writer, Michelle Cox is, is the fact that despite having not read the first book, I easily connected with both Clive and Henrietta as a couple. They were so cute together. I appreciated that Clive let Henrietta be herself and respected her brain smarts.
Before I go any further about this book, I just have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this book so much. The reason is because I usually stray away from books that hint to anything regarding Pride and Prejudice. The several books that I have tried have been major fails for me. A Ring of Truth is a major hit with strong characters, a dash of mystery, all wrapped in a delightful time period!
Ok, back to the book. Every person that Henrietta encountered was engaging. Additionally, there were no minor parts played by any of the characters. I can't wait to continue the journey with Henrietta and Clive.
Before I go any further about this book, I just have to say that I was very pleasantly surprised that I enjoyed this book so much. The reason is because I usually stray away from books that hint to anything regarding Pride and Prejudice. The several books that I have tried have been major fails for me. A Ring of Truth is a major hit with strong characters, a dash of mystery, all wrapped in a delightful time period!
Ok, back to the book. Every person that Henrietta encountered was engaging. Additionally, there were no minor parts played by any of the characters. I can't wait to continue the journey with Henrietta and Clive.
March 4, 2017
This book was interesting in several ways. The poor girl marrying rich boy story is always very nice and when it all ends happily even better. In this case our rich man never said he was actually filthy rich and heir to an estate. He was just a chief detective and that is how our girl met him, whilst working on a case for him. Henrietta realised that he was rich only when she visited his home and saw how difficult it would be for her to fit in. On top of that the other twist in the tale, was that Henrietta's mother herself had a colorful past, one she had successfully hidden from her eight children for all these years. The fact that she was herself a rich heiress who disgraced her family by running away and then forsaking all attempts for reconciliation is now slowly coming to light.
In these circumstances, Henrietta visits the family home with the idea of getting used to their way of life and also to plan the much awaited engagement and wedding. To add another twist to the story a loss of a ring and the twist in the tale in its finding added another layer to this story.
Several different strands - a mystery, a follow up from a previous story plus a romance and a family saga. Very nicely combined.
In these circumstances, Henrietta visits the family home with the idea of getting used to their way of life and also to plan the much awaited engagement and wedding. To add another twist to the story a loss of a ring and the twist in the tale in its finding added another layer to this story.
Several different strands - a mystery, a follow up from a previous story plus a romance and a family saga. Very nicely combined.
July 10, 2018
This was the second book in the series and I thought it was a great story of Henrietta and Clive’s next chapter in their lives together. I think it is beneficial to read the books in order to really get history of all the characters since they and the storyline continue forward in the second book. This book took me back in time and really made me feel I was there with all the characters and experiencing the story with them which made it so engaging for me. The icing on the cake was meeting Michelle and hearing about her inspiration for the series and getting the behind the scenes info of what goes into writing and publishing a novel at our book club meeting in. May. This series is really taking me outside of my reading comfort zone and introducing me to a whole new genre, thanks Michelle!
May 11, 2018
For me, the strength of 'A Ring of Truth' is in Ms. Cox's development of her characters and the relationships she creates among them. These relationships are for the most part highly believable and interesting, flawed (as relationships are) at times, but always these connections as family and family-to-be propel the novel forward. I would not classify this second book as a mystery at all, but rather as a romance. Although Henrietta does happen to uncover a puzzle she hopes to solve for an elderly woman, I did not see it as a compelling mystery. As in the first of the series, Ms. Cox throws in some unexpected twists that catch the reader by surprise. At times I had difficulty putting this novel down. I am anxious to start the third in the series this evening!
July 27, 2017
I love the magical chemistry between Inspector Howard and Henrietta. Michelle Cox does an excellent job of bringing the reader through the balance of new love and the self doubt that inserts itself in most new relationships. Add the chaos that both of their families infuse into this story and you just never know what's going to happen. It's a contrast between the 1930's rich and poor in the Chicago area. I'm a little sad I finished without having the next installment as I like spending time with all the characters. Keep writing please, the next book can't come fast enough for me!
November 19, 2025
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November 1, 2020
Henrietta is now engaged to Inspector Howard. It turns out Clive Howard is wealthy and takes Henrietta to stay at his parents' mansion. The first few chapters are an enjoyable Upstairs Downstairs/Downton Abbey tale painting Henrietta capable of becoming an inspector herself. Henrietta meets Helen, who recently had a ring stolen from her. A complex plot follows, there are more twists at the end of the novel - a cliffhanger to the next story.
March 21, 2021
At the end of Book one, Clive proposes to Henrietta and she takes him to meet her family. He knows that she comes from a very poor family but loves her just the same. However, when he meets her mother, you would think he would have second thoughts. Luckily, he does not scare easily.
In ‘A Ring of Truth’ he brings Henrietta to meet his family. He has not told her anything about then but since she knows he works for the police; she assumes he comes from a working-class family. Certainly, a step above her family but not wealthy. Why Clive didn’t prepare her ahead of bringing her to meet his family is anyone’s guess but when the house comes into site from the car, she is shocked. He comes from a very wealthy family.
It seems she is leaping out of the frying pan and in to the fire. She can relate to the servants way more than she can relate to Clive’s parents. She has her doubts, as do Clive parents. However, Clive’s mother decides she can work with her and invites her to stay so they can plan the engagement party and wedding. However, she really wants to shape Henrietta into a proper lady. While staying with the Howards, Henrietta also stumbles into a mystery that she gets caught up in trying to solve.
Wow, this was even better than book one! Watching Henrietta try so hard to fit in with her soon to be in-laws was heart breaking at times. Michelle Cox is so good at creating her character and the new ones introduced in this book are so different from the first. The mystery brings lots of spice and develops Henrietta into a real problem solver. Even though as a woman, she is not taken seriously.
The romance between Clive and Henrietta seems realistic and not forced as in some novels and their fights are just as realistic. I tend to read a lot of historical fiction but not romance and mystery but this series has a fine balance that I can’t seem to get enough!
In ‘A Ring of Truth’ he brings Henrietta to meet his family. He has not told her anything about then but since she knows he works for the police; she assumes he comes from a working-class family. Certainly, a step above her family but not wealthy. Why Clive didn’t prepare her ahead of bringing her to meet his family is anyone’s guess but when the house comes into site from the car, she is shocked. He comes from a very wealthy family.
It seems she is leaping out of the frying pan and in to the fire. She can relate to the servants way more than she can relate to Clive’s parents. She has her doubts, as do Clive parents. However, Clive’s mother decides she can work with her and invites her to stay so they can plan the engagement party and wedding. However, she really wants to shape Henrietta into a proper lady. While staying with the Howards, Henrietta also stumbles into a mystery that she gets caught up in trying to solve.
Wow, this was even better than book one! Watching Henrietta try so hard to fit in with her soon to be in-laws was heart breaking at times. Michelle Cox is so good at creating her character and the new ones introduced in this book are so different from the first. The mystery brings lots of spice and develops Henrietta into a real problem solver. Even though as a woman, she is not taken seriously.
The romance between Clive and Henrietta seems realistic and not forced as in some novels and their fights are just as realistic. I tend to read a lot of historical fiction but not romance and mystery but this series has a fine balance that I can’t seem to get enough!
June 11, 2020
Relationship and family issues with the mystery of a missing ring mixed in!
After Inspector Howard’s proposal to Henrietta at the end of book one, the differences in their family situations soon become apparent as much greater than Henrietta had thought. While spending time with the Howard family, Henrietta tries to find her place in this unfamiliar world and uncovers a mystery. What happened to the Howard’s neighbor’s ring that is missing?
Michelle Cox writes her characters very well. The first part of this book is full of angst and uncertainty, particularly for Henrietta while Howard is at work for over two weeks, leaving her with his family. Whereas book one was full of the mystery that Henrietta found herself drawn into, and her blossoming relationship with Inspector Howard took a back seat, in book two, the tables have turned.
I would have liked to have known more about what Howard was dealing with at work earlier in the book, but as always, Henrietta kept me reading. As she did all the things she wasn’t supposed to while staying at the Howard family home, I was cheering her on.
It would probably be best to read book one before you read this one, just to get the investment into the main characters.
I am looking forward to reading book three!
After Inspector Howard’s proposal to Henrietta at the end of book one, the differences in their family situations soon become apparent as much greater than Henrietta had thought. While spending time with the Howard family, Henrietta tries to find her place in this unfamiliar world and uncovers a mystery. What happened to the Howard’s neighbor’s ring that is missing?
Michelle Cox writes her characters very well. The first part of this book is full of angst and uncertainty, particularly for Henrietta while Howard is at work for over two weeks, leaving her with his family. Whereas book one was full of the mystery that Henrietta found herself drawn into, and her blossoming relationship with Inspector Howard took a back seat, in book two, the tables have turned.
I would have liked to have known more about what Howard was dealing with at work earlier in the book, but as always, Henrietta kept me reading. As she did all the things she wasn’t supposed to while staying at the Howard family home, I was cheering her on.
It would probably be best to read book one before you read this one, just to get the investment into the main characters.
I am looking forward to reading book three!
October 13, 2019
Well this is a first, this is three reviews of three books I have read and just have not had time to review lately. This is another one of my favorite authors. Her books are based in the 1930's and this is the third one I have read, she has one more for me to read and another coming out in April!! Fantastic storyline of the times and a super great couple to boot. Very interesting going back in time and yes read them all because she has written them as they meet and go on from there. Love this time period and the couple and the families are not as you would imagine them to be, just a great story series and I hope she continues to write more about them, wow the stuff that went on even then was very compelling to read about, give her a chance! Enjoy folks and thanks for read my reviews!
October 16, 2018
I tried to like this series, I really did.
Even after being underwhelmed by the first book I thought I'd give the series another chance by reading book 2, A Ring of Truth.
This book should not be classified as a mystery: there was very little in the way of a 'mystery' plot.
It is a particularly bad romance novel.
On the positive side, the details of living in depression era Chicago and environs are well done.
On the negative side, the romance and introspection scenes are painfully awkward and horribly written: truly abysmal.
Book 3 is being returned unread I'm afraid.
Even after being underwhelmed by the first book I thought I'd give the series another chance by reading book 2, A Ring of Truth.
This book should not be classified as a mystery: there was very little in the way of a 'mystery' plot.
It is a particularly bad romance novel.
On the positive side, the details of living in depression era Chicago and environs are well done.
On the negative side, the romance and introspection scenes are painfully awkward and horribly written: truly abysmal.
Book 3 is being returned unread I'm afraid.
April 19, 2017
I enjoyed this second book in the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series which focuses more on the budding relationship of newly engaged Henrietta and Clive, but does have a little mystery and an interesting family secret. Very good story, and I also love the setting and time period. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 30, 2017
I won this novel in a goodreads drawing.
Jane Austen is updated to 1930's Chicago, and our principles try to salve a mystery.
Way too cutesy for me.
Jane Austen is updated to 1930's Chicago, and our principles try to salve a mystery.
Way too cutesy for me.
July 27, 2017
I really like these characters and am anxiously awaiting book #3.
June 12, 2020
I loved book 2 even more than the first one in this series. I enjoyed reading how Inspector Howard and Henrietta's relationship grew. The details from the Chicago area make me miss it even more.
September 14, 2020
AUDIO/PRINT COMBO BOOK REVIEW: A Ring of Truth, the second book in the delicious Henrietta and Inspector Howard Series by Michelle Cox, begins right where the first book, A Girl Like You ended. Yes, delicious. I’ve used that word in every review because I devour Cox’s stories like a tray of sweets. (I started the series with the fifth book, A Child Lost, and had to go back to the beginning and am steadily working forward.)
In A Ring of Truth, Henrietta and Clive realize that being passionately in love may not be enough to overcome the realities of their vastly different worlds – and the seventeen-year age gap between them. They both are guilty of not being forthcoming with each other and having unrealistic expectations. Again, here’s where I love Henrietta’s sassy-self. She says things like she sees them and doesn’t shy away from telling Clive how it is. She is often wise beyond her nineteen years, so at times it’s hard to remember that her more immature actions are because she’s literally still a teenager, albeit one who’s had an enormous amount of responsibility. Readers must be more patient in getting to know Clive. His upbringing, the loss of his first wife and child, his service in the war, and his experiences as a Chicago policeman have made him slow to reveal his core. As layers are peeled away from his character, his actions and reactions make more sense. And it’s clear that Henrietta is a balm to soothe his wounds.
“A lady is not thought to possess strong opinions … as her proper place is to always find herself in support of her husband’s opinions.”
Ah, Antonia. Readers get to know Clive’s highbrow mother a little more through not only her conversations with Henrietta, but also because there are sections of the books told from her point of view. There’s more to her than meets the eye, and while it’s easy to take her at face value – and dislike her immensely -- those parts of the story where readers know her thinking reveal that she’s complicated and not quite the cold person she appears to be. I love Alcott (my second favorite side character), Clive’s father, and he loves Antonia, but readers will have to also be patient here, as her heart is revealed.
Narrator Jane Entwistle is back to voice familiar characters and new ones as well. In A Ring of Truth, my favorite of Entwistle’s performances is of the elderly and endearing Helen Schuyler. With her heavy and heavily expressive Scottish accent and her “ooh aye” and “ach, noo,” Entwistle brings Helen off the pages and into vibrant life. She does a beautiful job in performing all the characters, young and old, male and female, loveable or loathe-able.
I’ve now read one full book only in print, listened to one full book only on audio, and done a combo read of a third. The combo is probably my favorite approach because a) gorgeous cover and the books look great on the shelf, but also b) when it could be deemed rude to have the audio playing in shared spaces or to wear headphones, I can flip open the book and not have to take a break from the story, and of course c) I can read with my eyes much faster than reading with my ears. (Recall the devouring thing?)
I would say that the books I’ve read thus far (one, two, and five) can all be read as stand-alone (but WHY?!), but the open-endedness of A Ring of Truth might niggle a bit more than the others for readers who don’t want to be forced into reading a series to get answers. Admittedly, this might bother me if I had to wait a year for the next installment, but I already have A Promise Given, book three of the series, loaded for listening! Stay tuned for the next review!
Though I already owned the print copy, I thank the author and iRead Book Tours for the audio download in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog.
In A Ring of Truth, Henrietta and Clive realize that being passionately in love may not be enough to overcome the realities of their vastly different worlds – and the seventeen-year age gap between them. They both are guilty of not being forthcoming with each other and having unrealistic expectations. Again, here’s where I love Henrietta’s sassy-self. She says things like she sees them and doesn’t shy away from telling Clive how it is. She is often wise beyond her nineteen years, so at times it’s hard to remember that her more immature actions are because she’s literally still a teenager, albeit one who’s had an enormous amount of responsibility. Readers must be more patient in getting to know Clive. His upbringing, the loss of his first wife and child, his service in the war, and his experiences as a Chicago policeman have made him slow to reveal his core. As layers are peeled away from his character, his actions and reactions make more sense. And it’s clear that Henrietta is a balm to soothe his wounds.
“A lady is not thought to possess strong opinions … as her proper place is to always find herself in support of her husband’s opinions.”
Ah, Antonia. Readers get to know Clive’s highbrow mother a little more through not only her conversations with Henrietta, but also because there are sections of the books told from her point of view. There’s more to her than meets the eye, and while it’s easy to take her at face value – and dislike her immensely -- those parts of the story where readers know her thinking reveal that she’s complicated and not quite the cold person she appears to be. I love Alcott (my second favorite side character), Clive’s father, and he loves Antonia, but readers will have to also be patient here, as her heart is revealed.
Narrator Jane Entwistle is back to voice familiar characters and new ones as well. In A Ring of Truth, my favorite of Entwistle’s performances is of the elderly and endearing Helen Schuyler. With her heavy and heavily expressive Scottish accent and her “ooh aye” and “ach, noo,” Entwistle brings Helen off the pages and into vibrant life. She does a beautiful job in performing all the characters, young and old, male and female, loveable or loathe-able.
I’ve now read one full book only in print, listened to one full book only on audio, and done a combo read of a third. The combo is probably my favorite approach because a) gorgeous cover and the books look great on the shelf, but also b) when it could be deemed rude to have the audio playing in shared spaces or to wear headphones, I can flip open the book and not have to take a break from the story, and of course c) I can read with my eyes much faster than reading with my ears. (Recall the devouring thing?)
I would say that the books I’ve read thus far (one, two, and five) can all be read as stand-alone (but WHY?!), but the open-endedness of A Ring of Truth might niggle a bit more than the others for readers who don’t want to be forced into reading a series to get answers. Admittedly, this might bother me if I had to wait a year for the next installment, but I already have A Promise Given, book three of the series, loaded for listening! Stay tuned for the next review!
Though I already owned the print copy, I thank the author and iRead Book Tours for the audio download in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog.
March 16, 2021
* An slightly different audio version will appear on the Reading in Bed Podcast for April 2021 in April which is available on all the usual networks including readinginbed.bandcamp.com *
BLURB:
In this second book of the series, Henrietta and Clive delightfully rewrite Pride and Prejudice—with a hint of mystery!
Newly engaged, Clive and Henrietta now begin the difficult task of meeting each other’s family. “Difficult” because Clive has neglected to tell Henrietta that he is in fact the heir to the Howard estate and fortune, and Henrietta has just discovered that her mother has been hiding secrets about her past as well. When Clive brings Henrietta to the family estate to meet his parents, they are less than enthused about his impoverished intended. Left alone in this extravagant new world when Clive returns to the city, Henrietta finds herself more at home with the servants than his family, much to the disapproval of Mrs. Howard—and soon gets caught up in the disappearance of an elderly servant’s ring, not realizing that in doing so she has become part of a bigger, darker plot.
As Clive and Henrietta attempt to discover the truth in the two very different worlds unraveling around them, they both begin to wonder: Are they meant for each other after all?
STRENGTHS:
Somewhat of a change in tone from the first book, the second book heads much into a upstsairs, downstairs kind of territory for the first half of the book and while enjoyable I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book as the vividness in the first book simply isn’t there and it did take a bit to get going.
Clive and Henrietta were well-developed characters and I think it made sense taking them to meet Clive’s parents and get as far as the engagement party in the book.
As per the first book, even this book was a lot slower in the first half, and I think things began to pick up when they went back to Henrietta’s family.
There was also some development in Henrietta’s younger sister and her partner from the first book and I did begin to feel a little sympathy for Henrietta’s mother also.
WEAKNESSES:
The book is advertised as 305 pages or so, and it flowed along nicely for the book but I was then surprised to get over 50 pages of the preview of the third book which kinda ruined the cliffhanger from the end of the second book which I am not sure was a good move.
The sub plot involving the stolen ring also felt a bit flat in places, but like I said the book didn’t outstay its welcome so didn’t drag it out. If they had gone to 350 to 400 pages it would have being defo too much.
Henrietta’s character was engaging was also a bit too trusting in places with her interactions with some of the servants shall we say and you would hope the character would learn in future books as a third book of the character being reckless in places would be worrying a little.
7/10
BLURB:
In this second book of the series, Henrietta and Clive delightfully rewrite Pride and Prejudice—with a hint of mystery!
Newly engaged, Clive and Henrietta now begin the difficult task of meeting each other’s family. “Difficult” because Clive has neglected to tell Henrietta that he is in fact the heir to the Howard estate and fortune, and Henrietta has just discovered that her mother has been hiding secrets about her past as well. When Clive brings Henrietta to the family estate to meet his parents, they are less than enthused about his impoverished intended. Left alone in this extravagant new world when Clive returns to the city, Henrietta finds herself more at home with the servants than his family, much to the disapproval of Mrs. Howard—and soon gets caught up in the disappearance of an elderly servant’s ring, not realizing that in doing so she has become part of a bigger, darker plot.
As Clive and Henrietta attempt to discover the truth in the two very different worlds unraveling around them, they both begin to wonder: Are they meant for each other after all?
STRENGTHS:
Somewhat of a change in tone from the first book, the second book heads much into a upstsairs, downstairs kind of territory for the first half of the book and while enjoyable I didn’t enjoy it as much as the first book as the vividness in the first book simply isn’t there and it did take a bit to get going.
Clive and Henrietta were well-developed characters and I think it made sense taking them to meet Clive’s parents and get as far as the engagement party in the book.
As per the first book, even this book was a lot slower in the first half, and I think things began to pick up when they went back to Henrietta’s family.
There was also some development in Henrietta’s younger sister and her partner from the first book and I did begin to feel a little sympathy for Henrietta’s mother also.
WEAKNESSES:
The book is advertised as 305 pages or so, and it flowed along nicely for the book but I was then surprised to get over 50 pages of the preview of the third book which kinda ruined the cliffhanger from the end of the second book which I am not sure was a good move.
The sub plot involving the stolen ring also felt a bit flat in places, but like I said the book didn’t outstay its welcome so didn’t drag it out. If they had gone to 350 to 400 pages it would have being defo too much.
Henrietta’s character was engaging was also a bit too trusting in places with her interactions with some of the servants shall we say and you would hope the character would learn in future books as a third book of the character being reckless in places would be worrying a little.
7/10
April 4, 2017
Henrietta Von Harmon and Clive Howard, detective inspector with the Chicago police, have just become engaged. They are journeying to visit Clive’s parents who are very wealthy and are known as The Howards of Winnetka. Henrietta is somewhat younger than Clive and has worked with him investigating some police cases. Her mother is not happy that she will wed Clive. The woman’s husband committed suicide leaving her to raise a number of children without any funds. She has been depending upon the money that Henrietta brings in. Sadly, she is a very bitter woman.
When Henrietta meets Clive’s parents, the Howards discover that her parents have roots going back to some very wealthy and well-known people. This is all new to Henrietta.
Clive returns to Chicago to continue with his job leaving Henrietta with his parents as his mother schools and dresses her to be acceptable to high society. Henrietta is lonely but when she tries to befriend some of the help, she is chastised by Mrs. Howard.
One day, while walking on the grounds, Henrietta happens upon a small cottage where an old woman named Helen lives. Helen used to work in the kitchen for the Howards who have allowed her to stay in the cottage after she retired. She has poor eyesight and a confused manner. She tells Henrietta that someone has stolen a ring that she had received from her grandmother. She says it is one of the gardeners. When Clive returns at the week’s end, she tells him about the missing ring and he reluctantly agrees to check into it. Henrietta also confides that she is not happy with the person his mother wants her to become. At the same time, Henrietta learns that her brother has been put in jail and she needs to return home to see what she can do to help. Soon, a misunderstanding between Clive and Henrietta tests them and their love for one another. Will Henrietta be able to accept Clive’s way of life so both of them can be together?
This is a nice story. It would help for the reader to read the first of the author’s novels to be able to be up with the relationship between Clive and Henrietta.
Copy provided by the author and publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When Henrietta meets Clive’s parents, the Howards discover that her parents have roots going back to some very wealthy and well-known people. This is all new to Henrietta.
Clive returns to Chicago to continue with his job leaving Henrietta with his parents as his mother schools and dresses her to be acceptable to high society. Henrietta is lonely but when she tries to befriend some of the help, she is chastised by Mrs. Howard.
One day, while walking on the grounds, Henrietta happens upon a small cottage where an old woman named Helen lives. Helen used to work in the kitchen for the Howards who have allowed her to stay in the cottage after she retired. She has poor eyesight and a confused manner. She tells Henrietta that someone has stolen a ring that she had received from her grandmother. She says it is one of the gardeners. When Clive returns at the week’s end, she tells him about the missing ring and he reluctantly agrees to check into it. Henrietta also confides that she is not happy with the person his mother wants her to become. At the same time, Henrietta learns that her brother has been put in jail and she needs to return home to see what she can do to help. Soon, a misunderstanding between Clive and Henrietta tests them and their love for one another. Will Henrietta be able to accept Clive’s way of life so both of them can be together?
This is a nice story. It would help for the reader to read the first of the author’s novels to be able to be up with the relationship between Clive and Henrietta.
Copy provided by the author and publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 31, 2017
This is the second book in the Henrietta and Inspector Howard series – I did not get to read the first one but if I ever get any reading spare time (hahahahaha) I have added it to my ever growing list. These two characters, Henrietta and Inspector Howard are the kind that pull you in right away and you want to keep in your world.
In this book Inspector Clive Howard , who is really wealthy and of the Chicago “nobility” for lack of a better word is bringing Henrietta home to meet the parents. He did not tell her of the family’s wealth nor did he tell his parents about Henrietta. He had been married before he went off to the war but his first wife and their child died and he has not found anyone he cared about since – until Henrietta. His mother is less than impressed to say the least and sees her as slightly above the help.
Henrietta is a bit of a fish out of water at Clive’s ancestral home and she is now not very welcome at her own home because her mother has been keeping some secrets and is really against her marriage into the hoi polloi. But Henrietta really loves Clive. As Clive heads back to work at the police station he leaves Henrietta with his mother so they can get to know one another but she uses the time to teach Henrietta all she needs to know to be Clive’s wife – in a less than motherly manner. While this is going on a problem breaks out at home that forces Henrietta to have to leave to help her family.
There are some other subplots subtly woven in to the story bringing in pieces from the first book and setting up the next book. I really felt no lack for not having read the first book – this one stood alone just fine. Henrietta and Clive are well drawn, complete characters and I really liked them even when they had their moments of stubbornness and behaving unkindly towards each other. The ancillary characters are also well developed and they all contribute to the story in one way or another. There were some twists and some smiles and all in all this was a book I truly enjoyed.
4.5
In this book Inspector Clive Howard , who is really wealthy and of the Chicago “nobility” for lack of a better word is bringing Henrietta home to meet the parents. He did not tell her of the family’s wealth nor did he tell his parents about Henrietta. He had been married before he went off to the war but his first wife and their child died and he has not found anyone he cared about since – until Henrietta. His mother is less than impressed to say the least and sees her as slightly above the help.
Henrietta is a bit of a fish out of water at Clive’s ancestral home and she is now not very welcome at her own home because her mother has been keeping some secrets and is really against her marriage into the hoi polloi. But Henrietta really loves Clive. As Clive heads back to work at the police station he leaves Henrietta with his mother so they can get to know one another but she uses the time to teach Henrietta all she needs to know to be Clive’s wife – in a less than motherly manner. While this is going on a problem breaks out at home that forces Henrietta to have to leave to help her family.
There are some other subplots subtly woven in to the story bringing in pieces from the first book and setting up the next book. I really felt no lack for not having read the first book – this one stood alone just fine. Henrietta and Clive are well drawn, complete characters and I really liked them even when they had their moments of stubbornness and behaving unkindly towards each other. The ancillary characters are also well developed and they all contribute to the story in one way or another. There were some twists and some smiles and all in all this was a book I truly enjoyed.
4.5
June 27, 2017
Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (06/17)
“A Ring of Truth” is the second book in the Henrietta and Inspector Howard Series by Michelle Cox. In this sequel to “A Girl Like You,” Henrietta and Clive are engaged. He takes her to his family estate where she discovers the true extent of his family’s wealth. While surrounded by grandeur, Henrietta feels like a fish out of water. Initially, she thinks that she really doesn’t feel like she fits in anywhere, unless it is in Clive’s arms. When Clive leaves her to go back to the city for work, Henrietta is left to her own devices. She feels that his mother and even some of the servants disapprove of her. When she wanders down to a cottage by a lake, she finds herself getting wrapped up in what appears to be a small mystery. However, nothing is that simple, and things end up being more complex than she could have imagined, especially when her life is in danger. Henrietta also learns a lot about her family history. In the end, everything seems to be somehow connected and she must decide where her she really belongs.
I loved “A Ring of Truth!” The author does an excellent job of bringing the 1930s to life with the Chicago setting and details true to the era. Henrietta’s character is refreshing because, despite the wealth being offered to her, she doesn’t cave into being a woman that wants to be kept, which would have been fine for those times. She has a great mind and she wants to use it. She isn’t totally perfect, but when she finds herself thinking judgmental thoughts, she always tries to put herself in check. She is the perfect match for Clive, the enigmatic hero in the story. The couple’s chemistry is endearing as well.
The background stories, colorful characters, and vividly described scenes also add a lot to the authenticity of the drama. Author Michelle Cox, has done a wonderful job with this novel, “A Ring of Truth.” I look forward to catching up on the first book in this series, and am hopeful that she will have the next one ready to read very soon!
“A Ring of Truth” is the second book in the Henrietta and Inspector Howard Series by Michelle Cox. In this sequel to “A Girl Like You,” Henrietta and Clive are engaged. He takes her to his family estate where she discovers the true extent of his family’s wealth. While surrounded by grandeur, Henrietta feels like a fish out of water. Initially, she thinks that she really doesn’t feel like she fits in anywhere, unless it is in Clive’s arms. When Clive leaves her to go back to the city for work, Henrietta is left to her own devices. She feels that his mother and even some of the servants disapprove of her. When she wanders down to a cottage by a lake, she finds herself getting wrapped up in what appears to be a small mystery. However, nothing is that simple, and things end up being more complex than she could have imagined, especially when her life is in danger. Henrietta also learns a lot about her family history. In the end, everything seems to be somehow connected and she must decide where her she really belongs.
I loved “A Ring of Truth!” The author does an excellent job of bringing the 1930s to life with the Chicago setting and details true to the era. Henrietta’s character is refreshing because, despite the wealth being offered to her, she doesn’t cave into being a woman that wants to be kept, which would have been fine for those times. She has a great mind and she wants to use it. She isn’t totally perfect, but when she finds herself thinking judgmental thoughts, she always tries to put herself in check. She is the perfect match for Clive, the enigmatic hero in the story. The couple’s chemistry is endearing as well.
The background stories, colorful characters, and vividly described scenes also add a lot to the authenticity of the drama. Author Michelle Cox, has done a wonderful job with this novel, “A Ring of Truth.” I look forward to catching up on the first book in this series, and am hopeful that she will have the next one ready to read very soon!
May 6, 2019
Highbury (Winnetka). Inspector Clive Howard (36, Cambridge U) invited Henrietta von Harmon (18, Clive’s fiancé, former Burgess Club cocktail waitress, Marlowe burlesque theater usherette) to meet his parents: Mr. Alcott Howard (English, husband/father, Cambridge U), & Mrs. Antonia Howard (wife/mother).
Jail. What was Detective O’Conner questioning Eugene about?
Highbury St. Elsie von Harmon (Henrietta’s sister), Eugene “Gene” von Harmon (brother), & Stanley “Stan” Dubowski had arrived at Henrietta place.
Gene, & Stan were kind of rude to the servants, & footman.
The butler led them to a big room where an ensemble played.
Trays of champagne & hors d’oeuvres were being devoured by the guests.
Those in attendance are: Mr. William Hennessey (husband/father), Mrs. Alice Hennessey (2nd wife/stepmother), Mr. John Exley (Uncle), Mrs. Agatha Exley (Aunt), Mr. Oldrich Exley (grandfather), Ms. Sophia Lewis (Clive’s ex-GF), Lloyd Everton (Sophia’s date), Julia Cunningham (wife, daughter/Clive’s sister, nee Hennessey), Randolph Cunningham (husband), & Lieutenant
Harrison Barnes-Smith (womanizer, Clive’s former C/O).
What was Jack up to?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written romantic mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great romance mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; She Writes Press; EBookDaily; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
Jail. What was Detective O’Conner questioning Eugene about?
Highbury St. Elsie von Harmon (Henrietta’s sister), Eugene “Gene” von Harmon (brother), & Stanley “Stan” Dubowski had arrived at Henrietta place.
Gene, & Stan were kind of rude to the servants, & footman.
The butler led them to a big room where an ensemble played.
Trays of champagne & hors d’oeuvres were being devoured by the guests.
Those in attendance are: Mr. William Hennessey (husband/father), Mrs. Alice Hennessey (2nd wife/stepmother), Mr. John Exley (Uncle), Mrs. Agatha Exley (Aunt), Mr. Oldrich Exley (grandfather), Ms. Sophia Lewis (Clive’s ex-GF), Lloyd Everton (Sophia’s date), Julia Cunningham (wife, daughter/Clive’s sister, nee Hennessey), Randolph Cunningham (husband), & Lieutenant
Harrison Barnes-Smith (womanizer, Clive’s former C/O).
What was Jack up to?
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written romantic mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great romance mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be continued. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; She Writes Press; EBookDaily; Amazon Digital Services LLC.; book
Tony Parsons (Washburn; MSW)
July 15, 2017
As part of the BookSparks April Showers Blog Tour back in the spring of this year, I enjoyed the book, A Girl Like You by Michelle Cox. Now, flash forward, and Michellle Cox has the second book in this series, the sequel called A Ring of Truth, and St. Martin's Press was kind enough to let me read it!
My thoughts:
Henrietta Von Harmon, age 19, and Chicago detective, Clive Howard, age 36, are newly engaged. The story takes place in the 1930's. The main story deals with the couple meeting each other's families and coming to terms with and accepting their differences. Henrietta visits the family home with the idea of getting used to them and to plan her engagement and wedding. While that part of the story keeps you flipping pages, there's the extra twist about the loss of a ring and the tale in locating it which adds another layer to this story.
I felt that Clive and Henrietta were very well-developed and realistic characters. Their emotional struggles were real and their love is written in a very deep and heartfelt way - not superficial or corny but at the same time pure. In fact, I really appreciated that the author wrote their romance in an honorable way. While they get a little "heated" at times, Clive and Henrietta always remind themselves they want to wait until they are married.
It's hard to actually share this story with you because I don't write spoilers and don't want to ruin anything for those of you who have already read book 1 but not this book. Trust me though, this story will keep your attention from page 1 through the very end and then you'll be bumming out because you'll want even more of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from St. Martin's Press in exchange for this post. I was not required to post a positive review, but I chose to do so because I enjoyed the book! Thanks so much!
My thoughts:
Henrietta Von Harmon, age 19, and Chicago detective, Clive Howard, age 36, are newly engaged. The story takes place in the 1930's. The main story deals with the couple meeting each other's families and coming to terms with and accepting their differences. Henrietta visits the family home with the idea of getting used to them and to plan her engagement and wedding. While that part of the story keeps you flipping pages, there's the extra twist about the loss of a ring and the tale in locating it which adds another layer to this story.
I felt that Clive and Henrietta were very well-developed and realistic characters. Their emotional struggles were real and their love is written in a very deep and heartfelt way - not superficial or corny but at the same time pure. In fact, I really appreciated that the author wrote their romance in an honorable way. While they get a little "heated" at times, Clive and Henrietta always remind themselves they want to wait until they are married.
It's hard to actually share this story with you because I don't write spoilers and don't want to ruin anything for those of you who have already read book 1 but not this book. Trust me though, this story will keep your attention from page 1 through the very end and then you'll be bumming out because you'll want even more of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from St. Martin's Press in exchange for this post. I was not required to post a positive review, but I chose to do so because I enjoyed the book! Thanks so much!
September 11, 2020
As a quick reminder, here is my rating structure:
1 star: Did not finish
2 Stars: Finished but do not recommend
3 Stars: Liked but could use some improvements
4 Stars: Loved this book!
5 Stars: Rare. The unput-down-able, binge read obsession.
Today I get to feature book two of a wonderful 1930’s detective series The Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novels.
Michelle Cox has written another installment in this slightly quirky and funny mystery serial. A Ring of Truth finds Henrietta discovering that her new fiancee is the heir to a fortune. Throughout M\most of the book, we get to see her attempting to adjust to life as the (soon-to-be) lady of the house, while also getting into some ridiculous trouble along the way.
Henrietta has to learn how to survive and thrive in the upper class society that her family may have connections to. I felt so badly for Henrietta, as she found herself living with her not quite in laws, being taught how to be a proper lady; meanwhile, her fiancee is nowhere to be seen or heard from. He apparently had more important things to do than talk to the woman he loves and plans to marry. Though he did talk to his mother, so…
I bring this up because it’s important to understand that A Ring of Truth explores Henrietta and Clive’s relationship in much more depth as well as showing much more of Clive’s character. He was no longer the perfect, mysterious police officer that Henrietta cannot resist. He is shown as a flawed individual, figuring things out just like Henrietta.
This volume is less serious than the first, with less action, but we learn so much about the characters. Henrietta and Inspector Howard need this book for the readers to really get invested in their relationship. Quick shoutout to Jayne Entwistle for a brilliant narration.
Excited to start book 3, and I’m hoping there’s a wedding in my future. 🙂
1 star: Did not finish
2 Stars: Finished but do not recommend
3 Stars: Liked but could use some improvements
4 Stars: Loved this book!
5 Stars: Rare. The unput-down-able, binge read obsession.
Today I get to feature book two of a wonderful 1930’s detective series The Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novels.
Michelle Cox has written another installment in this slightly quirky and funny mystery serial. A Ring of Truth finds Henrietta discovering that her new fiancee is the heir to a fortune. Throughout M\most of the book, we get to see her attempting to adjust to life as the (soon-to-be) lady of the house, while also getting into some ridiculous trouble along the way.
Henrietta has to learn how to survive and thrive in the upper class society that her family may have connections to. I felt so badly for Henrietta, as she found herself living with her not quite in laws, being taught how to be a proper lady; meanwhile, her fiancee is nowhere to be seen or heard from. He apparently had more important things to do than talk to the woman he loves and plans to marry. Though he did talk to his mother, so…
I bring this up because it’s important to understand that A Ring of Truth explores Henrietta and Clive’s relationship in much more depth as well as showing much more of Clive’s character. He was no longer the perfect, mysterious police officer that Henrietta cannot resist. He is shown as a flawed individual, figuring things out just like Henrietta.
This volume is less serious than the first, with less action, but we learn so much about the characters. Henrietta and Inspector Howard need this book for the readers to really get invested in their relationship. Quick shoutout to Jayne Entwistle for a brilliant narration.
Excited to start book 3, and I’m hoping there’s a wedding in my future. 🙂
September 21, 2021
Set in the 1930s Depression era, the story follows Henrietta Von Harmon whose mother and 7 siblings are struggling to make ends meet especially as Henrietta is no longer earning money to help support the family. Henrietta's intended, Inspector Clive Howard, has encouraged her to spend a few weeks at his parents' home, at which Henrietta realizes to her surprise how well-off the Howard family in a majestic home with quite a staff of servants.
At the Howard family home, Henrietta befriends the family's servants as her future mother-in-law reminds her of her place in society and the need to comport herself more appropriately. Caught between her old life of poverty and this high society, her fiance Clive is meanwhile caught between his love of and success at police work and his parents' expectations for him to give up that folly and take his rightful place in society as lord of the manor so to speak.
I liked the characters and the story as a charming and fun story of a more civil and simpler time. The story held my interest (but not in a suspenseful page-turning way - more in a "awwwhhh... I love this little relationship bit" way).
My only disappointment was that the story relies some on what occurred in the first book in this series - which I had not read and it ends with a cliff hanger that can only be resolved if you get the next book in the series. Sigh.
I loved loved loved the narrator of this audio book and liked the story and characters enough that I am now listening to the first book and also bought the third (before I realized there is a fourth, and if the third ends with another cliff hanger that relies on my reading the fourth it is highly unlikely I will buy in).
At the Howard family home, Henrietta befriends the family's servants as her future mother-in-law reminds her of her place in society and the need to comport herself more appropriately. Caught between her old life of poverty and this high society, her fiance Clive is meanwhile caught between his love of and success at police work and his parents' expectations for him to give up that folly and take his rightful place in society as lord of the manor so to speak.
I liked the characters and the story as a charming and fun story of a more civil and simpler time. The story held my interest (but not in a suspenseful page-turning way - more in a "awwwhhh... I love this little relationship bit" way).
My only disappointment was that the story relies some on what occurred in the first book in this series - which I had not read and it ends with a cliff hanger that can only be resolved if you get the next book in the series. Sigh.
I loved loved loved the narrator of this audio book and liked the story and characters enough that I am now listening to the first book and also bought the third (before I realized there is a fourth, and if the third ends with another cliff hanger that relies on my reading the fourth it is highly unlikely I will buy in).
February 27, 2020
This book deals with the second stage of Henrietta's adventures... her introduction into a totally different world so far above what her humble beginnings could ever imagine. It was shockingly overwhelming and uncomfortable to say the least... it is the world of her mother's... So it was quite difficult for Henrietta, for she fell in love with the Inspector (in Book 1) not the Heir to Highbury or what she called "Esquire"... and his posh world was totally unknown to her. It is in Highbury that her formal engagement would be celebrated and Clive thought she would be safe from Neptune (or his minions). Lots of layers here and the reader's introduction to the Howards and thus Henrietta's would be in~laws. Elsie would also have a vague inkling as to how her relationship with Stanley would be going ~ somewhere or nowhere... then there was also inscrutable sulking contentious and budding criminal queer Eugene... Another highly entertaining and exciting read.
P.S. ~ Again here are some awkward (for me) phrases with the annoying word BACK inserted and used in Contemporary context. Randomly, in Chapter 7 ~ "decided not to go BACK in to say good~bye" (either BACK or IN could be deleted)... "going to go BACK up to the house" (either BACK or UP could be removed)... though I still think BACK is the odd word there. Funny how language in the turn of the century has evolved like "invitation" a noun, has been replaced by the verb "invite"... "expiration" date on shelf items has evolved into "expiry" date... etc... and for a non~Millennial such things tend to give me an unsettling jolt... and confusing, too.
P.S. ~ Again here are some awkward (for me) phrases with the annoying word BACK inserted and used in Contemporary context. Randomly, in Chapter 7 ~ "decided not to go BACK in to say good~bye" (either BACK or IN could be deleted)... "going to go BACK up to the house" (either BACK or UP could be removed)... though I still think BACK is the odd word there. Funny how language in the turn of the century has evolved like "invitation" a noun, has been replaced by the verb "invite"... "expiration" date on shelf items has evolved into "expiry" date... etc... and for a non~Millennial such things tend to give me an unsettling jolt... and confusing, too.
August 14, 2020
My nose was stuck in this book from start to finish! This thrilling romance and mystery set was completely absorbing and intriguing. I felt as if I had stepped through time and right into 1930's Chicago brimming with activity; the notorious underworld of gangsters, crime, jazz clubs and speakeasies. A glimpse of how the most wealthy lived as well as the poorest of the poor. That's where we find ourselves in Michelle Cox's A Ring of Truth. This is the second book in the Henrietta And Inspector Howard series and the first introduction to this author for me. This book can be read as a stand alone, although it seemed as if I was one step behind the characters and the plot line, having to deduce my own conclusion from the missing details. However, this doesn't in any way take away from this exciting read.
Henrietta Von Harmon is a former "26 Girl and Burlesque dancer from one of Chicago's slums, and so when she pulls up to her fiance's family estate she feels a little out of place. In the Ring of Truth, Clive and Henrietta are thrust into another mystery and as Henrietta finds herself below stairs with the servants more and more that leaves them questioning whether or not they are meant for each other after all or are the stark differences to much to overcome for these two? A missing ring, juicy secrets, a vengeful gangster and romance make this Henrietta and Inspector Howard mystery all the more exciting.
I thoroughly enjoyed these characters and their chemistry was palpable. The twist and turns in the plot, and the hidden secrets, heighten the mystery and intrigue. The most exciting part; the series is only just beginning!
Henrietta Von Harmon is a former "26 Girl and Burlesque dancer from one of Chicago's slums, and so when she pulls up to her fiance's family estate she feels a little out of place. In the Ring of Truth, Clive and Henrietta are thrust into another mystery and as Henrietta finds herself below stairs with the servants more and more that leaves them questioning whether or not they are meant for each other after all or are the stark differences to much to overcome for these two? A missing ring, juicy secrets, a vengeful gangster and romance make this Henrietta and Inspector Howard mystery all the more exciting.
I thoroughly enjoyed these characters and their chemistry was palpable. The twist and turns in the plot, and the hidden secrets, heighten the mystery and intrigue. The most exciting part; the series is only just beginning!
April 21, 2017
This review is from: A Ring of Truth: A Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novel (Kindle Edition)
This is a wonderful read. You can visualize everything because of the great detail provided. There were a few grammatical mistakes but nothing that will take away or distract you from the story.
This is the second book in the series. I didn't read the first one which I'm sure is wonderful. Background details are provided that catch you up. Still reading the first book will undoubtedly be exciting and have you running to the second.
I love the simple and complexity of each character. They are wonderful whether good or bad guy. They are described so well you can feel them. The lead characters Miss Von Harmon and Inspector Howard, better known as Henrietta and Clive, mesh so well together.(Another reason to read the first book to see how they came to be) They are definitely the strong main characters going through what we all do, getting to truthfully know the person you fall in love with...before you marry them. Each of us have our own problems, past and hang ups that we keep deep inside because you are in love and you want them to keep loving you. It is rare to know everything about a person, even after marriage. Trust and truth are what Henrietta and Clive are striving for...between them and from the people around them.
This book is a mystery within a mystery within a mystery. That's what makes it so good. You are kept wondering and trying to solve people puzzles while enjoying a wonderful romance. Mmm...an excellent read. Thank you Michelle Cox for your talent.
This is a wonderful read. You can visualize everything because of the great detail provided. There were a few grammatical mistakes but nothing that will take away or distract you from the story.
This is the second book in the series. I didn't read the first one which I'm sure is wonderful. Background details are provided that catch you up. Still reading the first book will undoubtedly be exciting and have you running to the second.
I love the simple and complexity of each character. They are wonderful whether good or bad guy. They are described so well you can feel them. The lead characters Miss Von Harmon and Inspector Howard, better known as Henrietta and Clive, mesh so well together.(Another reason to read the first book to see how they came to be) They are definitely the strong main characters going through what we all do, getting to truthfully know the person you fall in love with...before you marry them. Each of us have our own problems, past and hang ups that we keep deep inside because you are in love and you want them to keep loving you. It is rare to know everything about a person, even after marriage. Trust and truth are what Henrietta and Clive are striving for...between them and from the people around them.
This book is a mystery within a mystery within a mystery. That's what makes it so good. You are kept wondering and trying to solve people puzzles while enjoying a wonderful romance. Mmm...an excellent read. Thank you Michelle Cox for your talent.
September 17, 2017
Who would have thought that a poor girl from a large family would catch the eye of a wealthy man? Henrietta came from a large family, one that scrambled to make ends meet and put food on the table. Clive was a police inspector, but, unknown to Henrietta, he came from a very wealthy background. Will Henrietta fit into the wealthy snob set once she is introduced to his family following the announcement of their engagement? Or is there something in her heritage, a mystery that even she didn’t know, that will garner some affection for a world completely different for the one to which she was born and raised? And then there are the antagonists. There has to be some evil lurking somewhere and this evil seems intent on capturing and harming Henrietta.
There is a lot of drama and excitement, not to mention romance, in Michelle Cox’s mystery, “A Ring of Truth: A Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novel”. This is not the first book and there is a lot of background information needed to follow this story, as it is linked to the previous novel. The use of backstory is necessary to a point and it should not be overused. Most of the chapters are written with significant backstory and this hinders the plot development. The characters, the setting and the plot make for a complex mystery with a bit of romance. Thrown into the mix is the underlying conflict of class distinction and the expectations of society, especially in the post World War I era. An interesting read.
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite.
There is a lot of drama and excitement, not to mention romance, in Michelle Cox’s mystery, “A Ring of Truth: A Henrietta and Inspector Howard Novel”. This is not the first book and there is a lot of background information needed to follow this story, as it is linked to the previous novel. The use of backstory is necessary to a point and it should not be overused. Most of the chapters are written with significant backstory and this hinders the plot development. The characters, the setting and the plot make for a complex mystery with a bit of romance. Thrown into the mix is the underlying conflict of class distinction and the expectations of society, especially in the post World War I era. An interesting read.
Reviewed for Readers' Favorite.
September 21, 2020
In A Ring of Truth, Henrietta is challenged to step out of her world and into that of the rich and entitled. While it is Clive's too, he chose to walk away from most of it by moving to a small apartment in the city and working as an inspector in the police force. Work calls, so he doesn't stay to support her. Henrietta is left alone to sink or swim in this foreign environment, while Clive's mother works daily to educate Henrietta on the proper decorum, behavior and speech required of her if she is to stand at her son's side as lady of the estate. It isn't easy.
Henrietta is chastised often for fraternizing with the servants, even helping one of the junior maids with her chores. But she is most comfortable among them. She sits in the kitchen sharing a cuppa while telling them bits of her life before meeting Clive. And she makes friends with a frightened older woman named Helen living in an isolated cottage. Desperate for something to do, and incredibly lonely without Clive there, she decides to try and help Helen find a very valuable ring that is missing. One she insists was stolen.
A Ring of Truth is wonderful historic read that is more about class distinctions and the lives of those in the story than mystery and murder. But those topics are still wound subtly into the background and erupt into the forefront near the end, bringing that element of danger - and from an old enemy. Again Henrietta's life is in danger and Clive, sent off on a wild goose chase, doesn't know if he can make it back in time to save his beloved.
Henrietta is chastised often for fraternizing with the servants, even helping one of the junior maids with her chores. But she is most comfortable among them. She sits in the kitchen sharing a cuppa while telling them bits of her life before meeting Clive. And she makes friends with a frightened older woman named Helen living in an isolated cottage. Desperate for something to do, and incredibly lonely without Clive there, she decides to try and help Helen find a very valuable ring that is missing. One she insists was stolen.
A Ring of Truth is wonderful historic read that is more about class distinctions and the lives of those in the story than mystery and murder. But those topics are still wound subtly into the background and erupt into the forefront near the end, bringing that element of danger - and from an old enemy. Again Henrietta's life is in danger and Clive, sent off on a wild goose chase, doesn't know if he can make it back in time to save his beloved.
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