What do you think?
Rate this book
Lady Darby Mysteries #10
A Perilous Perspective
An all-new historical mystery in this USA Today bestselling series featuring beloved inquiry agents Lady Kiera Darby and her dashing husband, Sebastian Gage.
Argyll, Scotland. July 1832. After a trying few months in Edinburgh, Kiera and her husband and investigative partner, Sebastian Gage, are eager to escape to the Highlands with their three-month-old child. Kiera is overjoyed for her cousin Rye and her detractor-turned-friend Charlotte who are being wed in a private ceremony at the estate of Rye’s great-uncle, the Marquess of Barbreck, in what seems to be the perfect wedding party.
But when Kiera is invited to peruse Barbreck’s extensive art collection, she is disturbed to discover that one of his most priceless paintings seems to be a forgery. The marquess’s furious reaction when she dares to mention it leaves her shaken and the entire house shocked. For it turns out that this is not the first time the word forgery has been uttered in connection with the Barbreck household.
Matters turn more ominous when a maid from a neighboring estate is found murdered where the forged painting hangs. Is her death connected to the forgeries, perhaps a grisly warning of what awaits those who dare to probe deeper? With unknown entities aligned against them, Kiera and Gage are forced to confront the fact that they may have underestimated their opponent. For they are swiftly made to realize that Charlotte’s and Rye’s future happiness is not the only issue at stake, and this stealthy game of cat and mouse could prove to have deadly consequences.
Argyll, Scotland. July 1832. After a trying few months in Edinburgh, Kiera and her husband and investigative partner, Sebastian Gage, are eager to escape to the Highlands with their three-month-old child. Kiera is overjoyed for her cousin Rye and her detractor-turned-friend Charlotte who are being wed in a private ceremony at the estate of Rye’s great-uncle, the Marquess of Barbreck, in what seems to be the perfect wedding party.
But when Kiera is invited to peruse Barbreck’s extensive art collection, she is disturbed to discover that one of his most priceless paintings seems to be a forgery. The marquess’s furious reaction when she dares to mention it leaves her shaken and the entire house shocked. For it turns out that this is not the first time the word forgery has been uttered in connection with the Barbreck household.
Matters turn more ominous when a maid from a neighboring estate is found murdered where the forged painting hangs. Is her death connected to the forgeries, perhaps a grisly warning of what awaits those who dare to probe deeper? With unknown entities aligned against them, Kiera and Gage are forced to confront the fact that they may have underestimated their opponent. For they are swiftly made to realize that Charlotte’s and Rye’s future happiness is not the only issue at stake, and this stealthy game of cat and mouse could prove to have deadly consequences.
387 pages, Paperback
First published April 19, 2022
285 people are currently reading
3946 people want to read
About the author
Anna Lee Huber
31 books3,683 followersAnna Lee Huber is the USA Today bestselling and Daphne award-winning author of the Lady Darby Mysteries, the Verity Kent Mysteries, the Gothic Myths series, as well as Sisters of Fortune: A Novel of the Titanic and the anthology The Deadly Hours. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She currently resides in Indiana with her family and is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her online at www.annaleehuber.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 337 reviews
February 7, 2022
It's 1832, and Kiera and Gage are attending a wedding in the Scottish highlands with their infant daughter. Kiera's friend Charlotte is to be married over the objections of her status-conscious father. Kiera and Gage find themselves investigating not only a shocking murder, but also art forgeries, and grudges from the past. The atmosphere of rural Scotland is appealing, and the characters and the plot are compelling. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
April 26, 2022
Lady Darby is one of my favorite historical mystery series. I binged through the first eight books in 2020. When we first meet Lady Kiera Darby at the beginning of the series, she is an infamous woman, shunned by society when they found out her late husband had her sketch the dead bodies he dissected for an anatomy journal he planned on publishing. At the time fresh bodies were hard to come by, not many would donate their body to science for this purpose, so medical colleges and people like Sir Darby resorted to buying corpses from questionable sources. It was later found out that some of these suppliers not only robbed fresh graves, but also murdered people to sell as dead medical subjects. Kiera had no knowledge of this, and even if she did there wasn’t much she could’ve done about it since her husband threatened her to comply or else. He was an awful man, as we learn from Kiera’s memories, and so I was thrilled he died before we’re introduced to her.
This unwanted, unsolicited knowledge of anatomy as well as Kiera’s superb deductive skills have made her an excellent partner to Gage as in inquiry agent tasked to solve murders or other crimes.
We’re now on book ten in the series, so there are bound to be spoilers if you read on.
Kiera and Gage, along with their three-month old daughter, Emma, are in Argyll, Scotland to attend Lady Charlotte’s wedding to Kiera’s cousin, Rye. Kiera’s overjoyed at the match and it’s evident that both her and Gage are besotted with their daughter. Things start off well until Kiera notices that a couple of the paintings in the Marquess of Barbreck’s great hall are forgeries. Barbreck doesn’t take kindly to the revelation, sparking an uproar, unearthing old dramas and finally leading to murder.
Half of the appeal of this series is the relationship between Kiera and Gage! It wasn’t all smooth sailing at the beginning, but it’s a pleasure to see them so in love now with each other and reveling in the love they share for their daughter. Emma sounded so adorable! Ms. Huber vividly captured that intense love you feel for your child, especially when they’re a baby.
There was an interesting revelation about Kiera’s mother that shocked and unsettled her. Bree and Anderly continue to dance around their feelings for each other, even though it’s obvious they still care.
The mystery was methodically investigated, a historical crime procedural, if you will. It wrapped up nicely but set things up to jump right into the next one and I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
This unwanted, unsolicited knowledge of anatomy as well as Kiera’s superb deductive skills have made her an excellent partner to Gage as in inquiry agent tasked to solve murders or other crimes.
We’re now on book ten in the series, so there are bound to be spoilers if you read on.
Kiera and Gage, along with their three-month old daughter, Emma, are in Argyll, Scotland to attend Lady Charlotte’s wedding to Kiera’s cousin, Rye. Kiera’s overjoyed at the match and it’s evident that both her and Gage are besotted with their daughter. Things start off well until Kiera notices that a couple of the paintings in the Marquess of Barbreck’s great hall are forgeries. Barbreck doesn’t take kindly to the revelation, sparking an uproar, unearthing old dramas and finally leading to murder.
Half of the appeal of this series is the relationship between Kiera and Gage! It wasn’t all smooth sailing at the beginning, but it’s a pleasure to see them so in love now with each other and reveling in the love they share for their daughter. Emma sounded so adorable! Ms. Huber vividly captured that intense love you feel for your child, especially when they’re a baby.
There was an interesting revelation about Kiera’s mother that shocked and unsettled her. Bree and Anderly continue to dance around their feelings for each other, even though it’s obvious they still care.
The mystery was methodically investigated, a historical crime procedural, if you will. It wrapped up nicely but set things up to jump right into the next one and I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2022
I’ll read anything Anna Lee Huber writes, so I opened A Perilous Perspective expecting to discover a sweeping plot and incredible attention to detail. This book has those things and more.
The original mystery stems from Kiera realizing that several pieces of art in a relative’s home gallery are forgeries. Of course a dead body shows up because this is a Lady Darby book and Kiera and her husband, Gage, stumble upon dead bodies all the time…this time when they are about to have a quickie against a wall in the aforementioned gallery (more on that later).
Kiera and Gage fly around the area to track down the original painting and the killer, who strikes again and poisons a third person. This one moves quickly while still conveying all the beautiful detail we’re used to in this series.
All the while, we get delightful scenes with Baby Emma, more development between Gage and his brother Henry, possible appearances by the ghost of Kiera’s mom, and the ever-entertaining relationship between Kiera’s maid, Bree, and Gage’s valet, Anderley. We even get an update from the winner of the Worst Father-in-Law Ever award, Lord Gage, who is going to figure prominently in the next book. In short, this book had everything a Lady Darby fan would love except Earl Grey the cat.
Someday, when there are 20+ Lady Darby books, I have no doubt that this one will be considered one of the favorites.
Regarding that quickie…Kiera and Gage have been married for half the series. There are loads of allusions to their sex life and plenty of fade-to-black scenes in past books. The gallery scene had me giggling because it was written with a bit more detail than we usually see. It was cute and fun to see just a little more than we usually do.
The original mystery stems from Kiera realizing that several pieces of art in a relative’s home gallery are forgeries. Of course a dead body shows up because this is a Lady Darby book and Kiera and her husband, Gage, stumble upon dead bodies all the time…this time when they are about to have a quickie against a wall in the aforementioned gallery (more on that later).
Kiera and Gage fly around the area to track down the original painting and the killer, who strikes again and poisons a third person. This one moves quickly while still conveying all the beautiful detail we’re used to in this series.
All the while, we get delightful scenes with Baby Emma, more development between Gage and his brother Henry, possible appearances by the ghost of Kiera’s mom, and the ever-entertaining relationship between Kiera’s maid, Bree, and Gage’s valet, Anderley. We even get an update from the winner of the Worst Father-in-Law Ever award, Lord Gage, who is going to figure prominently in the next book. In short, this book had everything a Lady Darby fan would love except Earl Grey the cat.
Someday, when there are 20+ Lady Darby books, I have no doubt that this one will be considered one of the favorites.
Regarding that quickie…Kiera and Gage have been married for half the series. There are loads of allusions to their sex life and plenty of fade-to-black scenes in past books. The gallery scene had me giggling because it was written with a bit more detail than we usually see. It was cute and fun to see just a little more than we usually do.
April 14, 2025
The setting of this wasn't the most exciting, I wasn't very keen on the whole 'fake' paintings, but it all picked up rather quickly. I'm always interested in Kiera's family, they're so nice and fun. And this one was filled with family and friends.
Another great ending that has made me very excited for the next one. I actually really like Gage's father, though he is an asshole, and I can't wait till we know more about him. And hopefully, he becomes less of an asshole. He is the one person whose background actually interests me.
Another great ending that has made me very excited for the next one. I actually really like Gage's father, though he is an asshole, and I can't wait till we know more about him. And hopefully, he becomes less of an asshole. He is the one person whose background actually interests me.
March 11, 2022
Thank you for Berkley and NetGalley for earc of this book
Unfortunately, this book wasn’t my favorite in the series. I felt like the mysteries was made too complicated for no reason and even though the whole book happened within a week, everything felt unnecessary long. Them going in circle about every single thing they learned just felt repetitive and unnecessary.
I liked seeing Keira and Gage as parents but felt like we didn’t need to know every time Emma ate. It just felt like another thing to take up page space.
Even the issue of Charlotte and the governess fell like another filler.
By the end of this book I cared more about relationship between Bree and Anderley than I did about who the killer was.
I was with this series for 10 books but after this one, I’m not sure if I would pick up the next one as fast as previous books.
Unfortunately, this book wasn’t my favorite in the series. I felt like the mysteries was made too complicated for no reason and even though the whole book happened within a week, everything felt unnecessary long. Them going in circle about every single thing they learned just felt repetitive and unnecessary.
I liked seeing Keira and Gage as parents but felt like we didn’t need to know every time Emma ate. It just felt like another thing to take up page space.
Even the issue of Charlotte and the governess fell like another filler.
By the end of this book I cared more about relationship between Bree and Anderley than I did about who the killer was.
I was with this series for 10 books but after this one, I’m not sure if I would pick up the next one as fast as previous books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2022
So I LOVE the Lady Darby series. These books have everything I adore in a book—romance, mystery, fabulous characters. And ALL set in the Regency Era? Yes, please!
A Perilous Perspective takes the reader to the Highlands (yay!) where secrets are embedded everywhere. As always, there are several characters with suspicious natures, but the gripping plot was easy to follow without getting lost.
And being a romance addict, I super appreciate Gage and Keira’s relationship. There are some melt—your-heart moments between them that are cleverly dropped into this intriguing mystery. Let's not forget the Will-They-Won't-They relationship with Anderly and Bree.
I hope the author continues this series far into the future. I just can’t get enough.
*I received a copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
A Perilous Perspective takes the reader to the Highlands (yay!) where secrets are embedded everywhere. As always, there are several characters with suspicious natures, but the gripping plot was easy to follow without getting lost.
And being a romance addict, I super appreciate Gage and Keira’s relationship. There are some melt—your-heart moments between them that are cleverly dropped into this intriguing mystery. Let's not forget the Will-They-Won't-They relationship with Anderly and Bree.
I hope the author continues this series far into the future. I just can’t get enough.
*I received a copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2022
From the first, Anna Lee Huber’s Lady Darby mysteries brought Early Victorian era to life with the atmosphere and gritty backdrop and cunning plot. Add to that complex characters led by Lady Darby with a dark past and the layered relationships around her and the series soon became a must-read. A Perilous Perspective is no exception and I was eager to see Kiera and Gage detecting once again while also learning the ropes as new parents.
First Line:
“There was nothing quite like the sight of proper, normally reserved ladies and gentlemen flailing and dashing about a moor.” Loc 81
Highland Wedding Plans and Artistic Contretemps
Kiera and Gage are visiting the Marquess of Barbreck’s estate in the Highlands along with several other family guests to celebrate her cousin Rye’s wedding to her dear friend Charlotte. Kiera enjoys watching the joie de vivre among her family, but doesn’t miss the undercurrents between Charlotte and Rye’s governess who seems set on undermining her in Rye’s household. Charlotte’s greater fear is that her stuffy father will look down on Rye as her second choice in husband because he’s a mere mister and his disapproval will cloud over the wedding celebrations.
But, not long into the visit, Kiera takes Lord Barbreck up on walking through the gallery to view his reputedly fine art collection. She is disturbed when she takes her first look at the most outstanding pieces in the collection. Gage is swift to note her perturbation.
“Kiera,” he said, waiting for me to look up at him. “You look troubled.” His brow furrowed as his gaze searched mine. “What is it?” I hesitated, wondering if I should keep my suspicions to myself. But then I realized, this was Gage. There was no need to keep such a thing from him…”I think…I’m fairly sure…” I huffed, aggravated with myself for vacillating, and then looked him squarely in the eye to declare with confidence. “I’m nearly certain this painting is a forgery.” Loc 441
A Clan Clash and A New Case
As she surmised, breaking the news to Lord Barbreck does not go well, but she is not the only one who is surprised when most of Barbreck’s vitriol is directed at a nearby neighbor from the Campbell clan and the past history between the two families is brought to light. Kiera and Gage are engaged to get to the bottom of the matter and Kiera is really tested when one of the secrets revealed is from her own past.
Kiera in the Crosshairs of a Devious Villain
Someone gets nervous that Kiera and Gage are getting too close to the truth and the murders begin followed by threats to Kiera’s well-being and her very life and that of a person dear to her. Kiera isn’t the same woman who was abused by her first husband and soiled by the scandal the man created, but she feels vulnerable and unsure. Her Aunt Cait gives her a bracing reminder.
“The fact of the matter is, in spite of all you’ve been through, you’ve emerged stronger and wiser. You triumphed in the end. And had you not been through it all, who’s to say whether you would have ever captured Gage’s heart, or given birth to darling Emma…And Who’s to say whether these murder investigations you’ve undertaken would ever have been solved.” Loc 2705
But, in the end, Kiera’s fiery spirit shines through and she rises to the challenge. She’s not alone and doesn’t have to go it alone, either.
“I noticed one set of eyes staring back at me instead. I dabbed at the wetness in the corner of my eye and smiled at Gage, feeling every ounce of his love directed at me. He looked so dashing in his deep blue frock coat, his golden hair artfully tousled.” Loc 5648
Slow Start Resounding Finish
A Perilous Perspective got off to a slow start for me. I wasn’t bored, but neither was I thoroughly caught up in the affairs of the story. Then, a third of the way through, I felt the change as it shifted from simply describing to driving the plot forward with a build-up of tension and the occasional spikes of suspenseful action. I was immersed in the world, the people, and the mystery.
A Keen Detecting Lass
Kiera is a colorful character. For all the scandal of her past, Kiera is now coming into her own because of Gage’s unwavering support along with her family and the confidence she gets from solving cases beside Gage. She’s not as defensive or stubbornly insistent on pushing into danger alone and not confiding in her partner.
Incidentally, I thought it was a nice slice of life to show how detecting with a newborn around does alter matters though I could have done without the many mentions of Kiera feeding Emma.
Highland Danger
The mystery started out as investigation of forged paintings, but then added murder and that atmospheric quality Huber puts into her writing. I tagged the culprit right away with no real reason other than their reaction during an interview and an idea about opportunity. Happily, I was right, but I still felt the tension of Kiera and Gage in danger. I do appreciate that the book still held some surprises for me in spite of knowing who was behind it all. And, of course there was that bit of tease there in the last pages to make me want the next book pronto.
Whisky All Around
In summation, twas a fabulous layering of Scottish Highlander setting, clever and not-so obvious murder mystery plotting, and sparkling character and relationship development. I am nudging historical mystery as well as romance fans to put themselves in the way of the Lady Darby mysteries.
First Line:
“There was nothing quite like the sight of proper, normally reserved ladies and gentlemen flailing and dashing about a moor.” Loc 81
Highland Wedding Plans and Artistic Contretemps
Kiera and Gage are visiting the Marquess of Barbreck’s estate in the Highlands along with several other family guests to celebrate her cousin Rye’s wedding to her dear friend Charlotte. Kiera enjoys watching the joie de vivre among her family, but doesn’t miss the undercurrents between Charlotte and Rye’s governess who seems set on undermining her in Rye’s household. Charlotte’s greater fear is that her stuffy father will look down on Rye as her second choice in husband because he’s a mere mister and his disapproval will cloud over the wedding celebrations.
But, not long into the visit, Kiera takes Lord Barbreck up on walking through the gallery to view his reputedly fine art collection. She is disturbed when she takes her first look at the most outstanding pieces in the collection. Gage is swift to note her perturbation.
“Kiera,” he said, waiting for me to look up at him. “You look troubled.” His brow furrowed as his gaze searched mine. “What is it?” I hesitated, wondering if I should keep my suspicions to myself. But then I realized, this was Gage. There was no need to keep such a thing from him…”I think…I’m fairly sure…” I huffed, aggravated with myself for vacillating, and then looked him squarely in the eye to declare with confidence. “I’m nearly certain this painting is a forgery.” Loc 441
A Clan Clash and A New Case
As she surmised, breaking the news to Lord Barbreck does not go well, but she is not the only one who is surprised when most of Barbreck’s vitriol is directed at a nearby neighbor from the Campbell clan and the past history between the two families is brought to light. Kiera and Gage are engaged to get to the bottom of the matter and Kiera is really tested when one of the secrets revealed is from her own past.
Kiera in the Crosshairs of a Devious Villain
Someone gets nervous that Kiera and Gage are getting too close to the truth and the murders begin followed by threats to Kiera’s well-being and her very life and that of a person dear to her. Kiera isn’t the same woman who was abused by her first husband and soiled by the scandal the man created, but she feels vulnerable and unsure. Her Aunt Cait gives her a bracing reminder.
“The fact of the matter is, in spite of all you’ve been through, you’ve emerged stronger and wiser. You triumphed in the end. And had you not been through it all, who’s to say whether you would have ever captured Gage’s heart, or given birth to darling Emma…And Who’s to say whether these murder investigations you’ve undertaken would ever have been solved.” Loc 2705
But, in the end, Kiera’s fiery spirit shines through and she rises to the challenge. She’s not alone and doesn’t have to go it alone, either.
“I noticed one set of eyes staring back at me instead. I dabbed at the wetness in the corner of my eye and smiled at Gage, feeling every ounce of his love directed at me. He looked so dashing in his deep blue frock coat, his golden hair artfully tousled.” Loc 5648
Slow Start Resounding Finish
A Perilous Perspective got off to a slow start for me. I wasn’t bored, but neither was I thoroughly caught up in the affairs of the story. Then, a third of the way through, I felt the change as it shifted from simply describing to driving the plot forward with a build-up of tension and the occasional spikes of suspenseful action. I was immersed in the world, the people, and the mystery.
A Keen Detecting Lass
Kiera is a colorful character. For all the scandal of her past, Kiera is now coming into her own because of Gage’s unwavering support along with her family and the confidence she gets from solving cases beside Gage. She’s not as defensive or stubbornly insistent on pushing into danger alone and not confiding in her partner.
Incidentally, I thought it was a nice slice of life to show how detecting with a newborn around does alter matters though I could have done without the many mentions of Kiera feeding Emma.
Highland Danger
The mystery started out as investigation of forged paintings, but then added murder and that atmospheric quality Huber puts into her writing. I tagged the culprit right away with no real reason other than their reaction during an interview and an idea about opportunity. Happily, I was right, but I still felt the tension of Kiera and Gage in danger. I do appreciate that the book still held some surprises for me in spite of knowing who was behind it all. And, of course there was that bit of tease there in the last pages to make me want the next book pronto.
Whisky All Around
In summation, twas a fabulous layering of Scottish Highlander setting, clever and not-so obvious murder mystery plotting, and sparkling character and relationship development. I am nudging historical mystery as well as romance fans to put themselves in the way of the Lady Darby mysteries.
April 13, 2022
1832 Argyll, Scotland
Young Emma is now three months old and brings out a different side of Lady Darby in how she cares for and interacts with her. Clearly, Lady Darby is ahead of her time as a working mother. Granted she's in an elevated status and has plenty of help, but she does balance the demands of both motherhood and artist/sleuth well.
The Scottish brogue in particular brought the setting alive for this reader. In addition, loved the details about artists, their techniques and history of works of art included in the pages.
The mystery unraveled like an onion and what a delight to watch it unfurl.
The Lady Darby Series isn't getting overdone by any stretch. It continues to deliver engaging and expertly woven mysteries filled with lovely characters.
And now more than a wee bit of a wait for the next bonny novel in the series. No doubt the wait will be worth it.
My gratitude to publisher Berkley for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Young Emma is now three months old and brings out a different side of Lady Darby in how she cares for and interacts with her. Clearly, Lady Darby is ahead of her time as a working mother. Granted she's in an elevated status and has plenty of help, but she does balance the demands of both motherhood and artist/sleuth well.
The Scottish brogue in particular brought the setting alive for this reader. In addition, loved the details about artists, their techniques and history of works of art included in the pages.
The mystery unraveled like an onion and what a delight to watch it unfurl.
The Lady Darby Series isn't getting overdone by any stretch. It continues to deliver engaging and expertly woven mysteries filled with lovely characters.
And now more than a wee bit of a wait for the next bonny novel in the series. No doubt the wait will be worth it.
My gratitude to publisher Berkley for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
April 19, 2022
Family and secrets in The Scottish Highlands! 1832.
Gage and Kiera! How can I not be as equally as entranced with this 10th volume as I was with the beginning.
Sebastian Gage and his wife Lady Kiera, along with their recently born daughter Emma, travel to Argyle, Scotland to be present for Kiera’s cousin Rye Mallory’s marriage to her friend Charlotte, Lady Stratford. The wedding is to take place at Kiera’s uncle’s estate, Barbreck Manor on the shores of Loch Craignish.
It’s here that Kiera will discover more about her mother, and her relatives from that side of her family in general.
Kiera is entranced by the idea of spending time with her uncle, the Marquess of Barbrek’s reputable and vast collection of art works. Unsettlingly, she discovers some of the revered works in the Manor’s long galley are forgeries; capped off by finding the body of a maid in the gallery underneath a false Van Dyke. (I was fascinated by the discussion of brush strokes btw.) The maid, from a neighbouring property, the Campbell’s, has been poisoned. But with what? A slow build up to an unforeseen climax with another death—the maid’s father. Kiera’s maid Bree is endangered and there are several possible culprits, along with the whys and wherefore of the forgeries. Bree and Sebastian’s valet Anderley have been following up questions around the deaths.
All link together for a compelling read, with so much at stake. Once more the tale ends with trouble beckoning, luring us into the future of this extraordinary couple, their sweet daughter, and their servant/companions.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Gage and Kiera! How can I not be as equally as entranced with this 10th volume as I was with the beginning.
Sebastian Gage and his wife Lady Kiera, along with their recently born daughter Emma, travel to Argyle, Scotland to be present for Kiera’s cousin Rye Mallory’s marriage to her friend Charlotte, Lady Stratford. The wedding is to take place at Kiera’s uncle’s estate, Barbreck Manor on the shores of Loch Craignish.
It’s here that Kiera will discover more about her mother, and her relatives from that side of her family in general.
Kiera is entranced by the idea of spending time with her uncle, the Marquess of Barbrek’s reputable and vast collection of art works. Unsettlingly, she discovers some of the revered works in the Manor’s long galley are forgeries; capped off by finding the body of a maid in the gallery underneath a false Van Dyke. (I was fascinated by the discussion of brush strokes btw.) The maid, from a neighbouring property, the Campbell’s, has been poisoned. But with what? A slow build up to an unforeseen climax with another death—the maid’s father. Kiera’s maid Bree is endangered and there are several possible culprits, along with the whys and wherefore of the forgeries. Bree and Sebastian’s valet Anderley have been following up questions around the deaths.
All link together for a compelling read, with so much at stake. Once more the tale ends with trouble beckoning, luring us into the future of this extraordinary couple, their sweet daughter, and their servant/companions.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
June 30, 2022
"It wasn't immediate. Rather it began with merely a whisper of uncertainty, a stirring somewhere inside me that something wasn't quite right." (quote from the book)
This was a slow burn of a mystery. One that opens up heretofore unknown family information to Kiera and delves into a past that someone would like to stay buried. And it all began with a visit to the Highlands when Kiera, her husband, Sebastian Gage, and their three month old daughter, Emma, attend her good friend, Charlotte's wedding to her cousin, Rye Mallery at the estate of his great-uncle the Marquess of Barbreck.
"I'm nearly certain this painting is a forgery." (quote from the book)
Being a renowned portrait painter, Kiera's love of art has her perusing the famous art collection of the Marquess. Things become tense and an investigation ensues when Kiera finds more than one forgery and a murder soon follows. This was an intriguing mystery, and I had my suspicions confirmed as to who the murderer was. I just wasn't able to determine the why and how.
"It's different now, isn't it? Having a child of our own. I find myself wondering what my mother would say or do. How she comforted me when I was crying in the middle of the night." (quote from the book)
I so enjoy the Lady Darby mysteries and the development of Kiera and Sebastian Gage's relationship. Seeing them as new parents was a treat, and Kiera's wish to have known her own mother better was haunting.
I highly recommend this series but do strongly suggest you start with the first book "The 'Anatomist's Wife'.
March 22, 2022
I have been a fan of Anna Lee Huber's since I read my First Lady Darby mystery. I think I was initially intrigued by Lady Darby's past, but became a fan as I observed her overcome this past and grow into an independent woman.... who just happens to be in the right place, at the right time, to solve a mystery.
Ms. Huber's attention to detail and vivid prose draw readers into the setting, but I think telling the story through Keira in first person allows the readers to fully engage in the mystery. It also allows the reader to appreciate Keira's struggles and relationships throughout the series.
In A Perilous Perspective, Ms. Huber's brilliant descriptions bring to life the beautiful highland setting. I was entranced by the mystery surrounding the art forgeries and the murders that follow this discovery. But most importantly, I was drawn to the family dynamics of Keira and Sebastian and by extension, family and friends.
Keira's natural study of human nature not only makes her a great artist but a successful investigator as well. Loved the hint Ms. Huber included in the final pages of the story, teasing her readers with a clue for what comes next for Keira and Sebastian Gage.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/ publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Ms. Huber's attention to detail and vivid prose draw readers into the setting, but I think telling the story through Keira in first person allows the readers to fully engage in the mystery. It also allows the reader to appreciate Keira's struggles and relationships throughout the series.
In A Perilous Perspective, Ms. Huber's brilliant descriptions bring to life the beautiful highland setting. I was entranced by the mystery surrounding the art forgeries and the murders that follow this discovery. But most importantly, I was drawn to the family dynamics of Keira and Sebastian and by extension, family and friends.
Keira's natural study of human nature not only makes her a great artist but a successful investigator as well. Loved the hint Ms. Huber included in the final pages of the story, teasing her readers with a clue for what comes next for Keira and Sebastian Gage.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author/ publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 21, 2022
I can read this series for another 10 books and I'll never tire of it.
#SebastianKeiraForever
#SebastianKeiraForever
April 20, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: Lady Darby #10
Publication Date: 4/19/22
Period: Scotland, 1837
Number of Pages: 384
Goodness, this is the tenth book in the series and it is every bit as good as the first. The characters are wonderful, the mystery is – well – mysterious, the writing is outstanding, and – we have a new baby to love and a wedding to attend! I have read each of the books in this series and they are all outstanding. You can read this as a stand-alone, but to get the full, immersive view of the relationship and background of Kiera and Gage, you should read at least the first couple of books. But, heavens, why would you stop there – you really should read them all because they are all so good.
Kiera, Gage, and new baby Emma; along with their entourage of servant/friends are at Barbreck Manor on the shores of Loch Craignish in Scotland for the wedding of Charlotte (Lady Stratford whom we met in the first book) and Kiera’s cousin, Rye Mallory. Kiera is so happy for her friend and her cousin and is looking forward to spending a couple of weeks prior to the wedding with friends and family.
All is going splendidly – until – well, Kiera being Kiera, she had to look at the paintings in the art collection. To her shock and dismay, she discovered two were forgeries. What to do? She knew she had to tell the Marquess, of course, but she dreaded it because he was such an irascible man. To say he didn’t take it well would be putting it mildly. After systematically going through the entire collection, Kiera identifies several more paintings as forgeries. How did the forgeries get into the collection? Did they come in as forgeries in the beginning – or – did the originals come in and were later replaced with forgeries?
As the investigation into the forgeries progresses, a young maid from a nearby estate is found, dead, beneath the first painting Kiera identified as a forgery. The maid didn’t just die – it was horrible – it was poison. How did she get into Barbreck Manor – and why was she there?
With an additional death, Kiera’s maid being poisoned, Kiera being taunted with strange happenings, and people not telling the whole truth, can they solve the mystery. Not just the deaths, but the forgeries as well?
There are a lot of things going on besides the mysteries that will keep you interested. We learn a lot more about Kiera’s family – especially her beloved mother – and we see the relationship grow between Gage and his half-brother Henry. Then, of course, there is the wedding and sweet baby Emma to make you smile. So, the book has something for everyone.
I hope you’ll read the book and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Lady Darby #10
Publication Date: 4/19/22
Period: Scotland, 1837
Number of Pages: 384
Goodness, this is the tenth book in the series and it is every bit as good as the first. The characters are wonderful, the mystery is – well – mysterious, the writing is outstanding, and – we have a new baby to love and a wedding to attend! I have read each of the books in this series and they are all outstanding. You can read this as a stand-alone, but to get the full, immersive view of the relationship and background of Kiera and Gage, you should read at least the first couple of books. But, heavens, why would you stop there – you really should read them all because they are all so good.
Kiera, Gage, and new baby Emma; along with their entourage of servant/friends are at Barbreck Manor on the shores of Loch Craignish in Scotland for the wedding of Charlotte (Lady Stratford whom we met in the first book) and Kiera’s cousin, Rye Mallory. Kiera is so happy for her friend and her cousin and is looking forward to spending a couple of weeks prior to the wedding with friends and family.
All is going splendidly – until – well, Kiera being Kiera, she had to look at the paintings in the art collection. To her shock and dismay, she discovered two were forgeries. What to do? She knew she had to tell the Marquess, of course, but she dreaded it because he was such an irascible man. To say he didn’t take it well would be putting it mildly. After systematically going through the entire collection, Kiera identifies several more paintings as forgeries. How did the forgeries get into the collection? Did they come in as forgeries in the beginning – or – did the originals come in and were later replaced with forgeries?
As the investigation into the forgeries progresses, a young maid from a nearby estate is found, dead, beneath the first painting Kiera identified as a forgery. The maid didn’t just die – it was horrible – it was poison. How did she get into Barbreck Manor – and why was she there?
With an additional death, Kiera’s maid being poisoned, Kiera being taunted with strange happenings, and people not telling the whole truth, can they solve the mystery. Not just the deaths, but the forgeries as well?
There are a lot of things going on besides the mysteries that will keep you interested. We learn a lot more about Kiera’s family – especially her beloved mother – and we see the relationship grow between Gage and his half-brother Henry. Then, of course, there is the wedding and sweet baby Emma to make you smile. So, the book has something for everyone.
I hope you’ll read the book and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 10, 2022
The latest in the Lady Darby mysteries is a fine addition to the series. There was no new ground here, and the mystery felt done already. I saw where the investigation was headed a mile away, and except for a few minor twists it went where expected. I thoroughly enjoyed a visit with all my favorite characters, and, of course, I'll read the next one. Warning: It ends on a minor cliff hanger. I liked this one, but it didn't wow me as much as previous books. Still an overall 5 star series for me, yet every series needs a transition book or two of which this is one.
April 19, 2022
‘It was high time we compared notes and formed a plan of attack.’
The cover of the very First Lady Darby Mystery convinced me this was a book I would like. I was wrong. I loved it! Set in the early 1800s in England and Scotland, this series features Lady Kiera Darby, who is a portrait painter and widow of a most horrid man. (And that description if him is me being nice.).
Kiera has great skill at not only painting, but sleuthing. She teams up with Sebastian Gage, an inquiry agent, later marries him, and together they work as inquiry agents, solving crimes. It’s a good thing, too, for it seems as if crime follows them.
Anna Lee Huber is remarkable in this series. Her skills at painting vivid descriptions, crafting wonderful characters, along with great plots and leading her reader along as she adds more clues each chapter is just downright awesome. I especially enjoy the way she layers her stories and how she shows us how Kiera’s mind works. These are told in first person, from Kiera’s perspective. She has written ten Lady Darby Mysteries and a novella so far and still manages to make each book powerfully interesting. And, as always, she lets us know in the last few paragraphs that we will be entertained very well indeed in the next offering.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via the Net Galley platform. The opinion in this review is my own.
The cover of the very First Lady Darby Mystery convinced me this was a book I would like. I was wrong. I loved it! Set in the early 1800s in England and Scotland, this series features Lady Kiera Darby, who is a portrait painter and widow of a most horrid man. (And that description if him is me being nice.).
Kiera has great skill at not only painting, but sleuthing. She teams up with Sebastian Gage, an inquiry agent, later marries him, and together they work as inquiry agents, solving crimes. It’s a good thing, too, for it seems as if crime follows them.
Anna Lee Huber is remarkable in this series. Her skills at painting vivid descriptions, crafting wonderful characters, along with great plots and leading her reader along as she adds more clues each chapter is just downright awesome. I especially enjoy the way she layers her stories and how she shows us how Kiera’s mind works. These are told in first person, from Kiera’s perspective. She has written ten Lady Darby Mysteries and a novella so far and still manages to make each book powerfully interesting. And, as always, she lets us know in the last few paragraphs that we will be entertained very well indeed in the next offering.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book via the Net Galley platform. The opinion in this review is my own.
January 2, 2022
While overwritten at times and often basic and obvious, I have to say these stories always keep me interested in the end, i’m not sure why, because the characters’ assets and peculiarities are underutilized most of the time. This book in particular was clunky and awkward, but eventually things picked up enough in the second half to keep me interested. At 10 books things are slowing down too much, when things were slow to begin with. I also don’t mind guessing the killer early if the characters remain engaging, but in this case those things didn’t line up.
March 20, 2022
A PERILOUS PERSPECTIVE
by Anna Lee Huber
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley.
Out Apr 19.
Book 10 in the Lady Darby series, A Perilous Perspective, soars in this strong histfic mystery series. Keira Darby is an inquiry agent with her wonderful spouse Sebastian Gage. They head to the Scottish Highlands with their baby to attend the wedding of Keira's cousin Rye at his great-uncle's estate.
The joyful occasion is marred, however, by mysterious happenings, claims of a forgery in the estate's famed art collection, a shocking event right in front of the questionable painting, plus twists and turns that will keep you happily occupied in Argyll, Scotland, 1832. Another Anna Lee Huber winner!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the ARC. Views are my own.
#APerilousPerspective #AnnaLeeHuber #NetGalley #historicalmysteryseries #ScottishHighlandsfiction #artforgery #bookstgramcommunity
by Anna Lee Huber
Berkley Publishing Group, Berkley.
Out Apr 19.
Book 10 in the Lady Darby series, A Perilous Perspective, soars in this strong histfic mystery series. Keira Darby is an inquiry agent with her wonderful spouse Sebastian Gage. They head to the Scottish Highlands with their baby to attend the wedding of Keira's cousin Rye at his great-uncle's estate.
The joyful occasion is marred, however, by mysterious happenings, claims of a forgery in the estate's famed art collection, a shocking event right in front of the questionable painting, plus twists and turns that will keep you happily occupied in Argyll, Scotland, 1832. Another Anna Lee Huber winner!
Thanks to the author, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the ARC. Views are my own.
#APerilousPerspective #AnnaLeeHuber #NetGalley #historicalmysteryseries #ScottishHighlandsfiction #artforgery #bookstgramcommunity
May 25, 2022
Ten books?! How in the world are we are ten books already in this series?! I cannot believe it! It seems like just yesterday that I found this series and devoured all the books (at that time five) in like one sitting! This series overall has been completely solid. There were books I liked better than others and for different reasons but I would rate this entire series as five stars. SOLID!
I love Anna Lee Huber’s writing style and other books she has written but the Lady Darby books stand out above the others and I cannot say enough good things. Some of the books you can jump around in the series but honestly I think this is a series better read beginning to end. Not only area the characters great and the mysteries engaging, but you really gain a full appreciation for the character relationships and larger narrative.
Yes I know this cover is stunning and maybe you haven’t read the other books and just want to start here, by all means go for it but if you want to fully appreciate Kiera and Gage as well as the nuances of this book (and there are plenty of them and references from other books), then you definitely want to go back and read the other books—-pretty cover or not! For one this book features Kiera’s cousin, Rye, and if you miss the other books you will miss out on fully appreciating their relationship so basically read the other books first!
For some reason I tend to forget that Kiera was first and foremost an artist! Over the last ten books she has become quite the detective and sometimes I find myself forgetting that when I first met her in book one, she was an artist and in all the earlier books her art was absolutely her outlet and identity. In this book we see a return to the art world with the investigation of a forgery. I really enjoyed the catalyst for this mystery being the forged painting! I loved reading about that and the process in which Kiera discovered it. For me this really added a lot to the mystery and made the book extra interesting! I loved the smart mystery that was both easy to follow while still remaining exciting and intriguing. I obviously don’t want to give anything away but this was a well crafted mystery with lots of past grudges and motives for various characters! It was very well done and I loved it!
Once Kiera and Gage were married (several books back), I loved that Huber refocused readers who love romance in their historical mysteries to another couple. Sometimes for me (who loves romance in their historical mysteries by the way!) once the principal characters end up together I find myself kind of bored after that. I love the ‘will they won’t they’ aspect of the stories. I think Huber is aware that many readers feel the same so early on she introduces Bree and Anderly and worked to develop an ‘investable’ couple. Meaning as a reader I felt connected and invested in their budding romance and the ‘will they won’t they’ aspect of their courtship. While keeping the focus on Kiera and Gage and yes there are heartfelt moments in this book too, but readers now have another new couple to cheer on and root for in Anderly and Bree.
Having this book set in Scotland was a welcome change from so many books set in London. Many of the Lady Darby books are set in Scotland and I always feel so relieved since so many historical mysteries are set in London. I also love that Scotland really provides a nice moody backdrop in these books and in this one it’s no different. Great setting! This book held my interest and really made me excited for future books! I loved that the author gave us a little hint of what’s to come! Obviously no spoilers so just go read it already! I love this series and this book was no different, another 5 star book for the series!
I love Anna Lee Huber’s writing style and other books she has written but the Lady Darby books stand out above the others and I cannot say enough good things. Some of the books you can jump around in the series but honestly I think this is a series better read beginning to end. Not only area the characters great and the mysteries engaging, but you really gain a full appreciation for the character relationships and larger narrative.
Yes I know this cover is stunning and maybe you haven’t read the other books and just want to start here, by all means go for it but if you want to fully appreciate Kiera and Gage as well as the nuances of this book (and there are plenty of them and references from other books), then you definitely want to go back and read the other books—-pretty cover or not! For one this book features Kiera’s cousin, Rye, and if you miss the other books you will miss out on fully appreciating their relationship so basically read the other books first!
For some reason I tend to forget that Kiera was first and foremost an artist! Over the last ten books she has become quite the detective and sometimes I find myself forgetting that when I first met her in book one, she was an artist and in all the earlier books her art was absolutely her outlet and identity. In this book we see a return to the art world with the investigation of a forgery. I really enjoyed the catalyst for this mystery being the forged painting! I loved reading about that and the process in which Kiera discovered it. For me this really added a lot to the mystery and made the book extra interesting! I loved the smart mystery that was both easy to follow while still remaining exciting and intriguing. I obviously don’t want to give anything away but this was a well crafted mystery with lots of past grudges and motives for various characters! It was very well done and I loved it!
Once Kiera and Gage were married (several books back), I loved that Huber refocused readers who love romance in their historical mysteries to another couple. Sometimes for me (who loves romance in their historical mysteries by the way!) once the principal characters end up together I find myself kind of bored after that. I love the ‘will they won’t they’ aspect of the stories. I think Huber is aware that many readers feel the same so early on she introduces Bree and Anderly and worked to develop an ‘investable’ couple. Meaning as a reader I felt connected and invested in their budding romance and the ‘will they won’t they’ aspect of their courtship. While keeping the focus on Kiera and Gage and yes there are heartfelt moments in this book too, but readers now have another new couple to cheer on and root for in Anderly and Bree.
Having this book set in Scotland was a welcome change from so many books set in London. Many of the Lady Darby books are set in Scotland and I always feel so relieved since so many historical mysteries are set in London. I also love that Scotland really provides a nice moody backdrop in these books and in this one it’s no different. Great setting! This book held my interest and really made me excited for future books! I loved that the author gave us a little hint of what’s to come! Obviously no spoilers so just go read it already! I love this series and this book was no different, another 5 star book for the series!
April 29, 2022
Ok I love this series, it is one of my all time favorites. But wow this book is a low point. The mystery is boring, there’s no interesting romantic tension….
Honestly, I’m ready for the focus to shift to Bree and Anderley, that’s what we all want!!
Honestly, I’m ready for the focus to shift to Bree and Anderley, that’s what we all want!!
November 25, 2022
A Perilous Perspective
4 Stars
In the Scottish Highlands for the wedding of her cousin and good friend, Kiera inadvertently discovers that the priceless artwork at the estate of Rye's great-uncle, the Marquess of Barbreck, are forgeries. As she and her husband Sebastian, a private inquiry agent, investigate, old animosities are re-awakened that put everyone at risk.
While the mystery surrounding the paintings is quite straightforward, and the identity of the killer becomes obvious at a certain point, it is still entertaining to follow along with Kiera, Gage, Bree and Anderley as they uncover the clues.
Readers are provided with more information concerning Kiera's past and the revelations are completely unexpected and intriguing - I have to wonder whether ?
There are also updates on Bree and Anderley on again-off again romance, and a novella focusing on their relationship would not be amiss.
In sum, a satisfying read and the minor cliffhanger at the end has be itching to read the next book as soon as its released next year.
4 Stars
In the Scottish Highlands for the wedding of her cousin and good friend, Kiera inadvertently discovers that the priceless artwork at the estate of Rye's great-uncle, the Marquess of Barbreck, are forgeries. As she and her husband Sebastian, a private inquiry agent, investigate, old animosities are re-awakened that put everyone at risk.
While the mystery surrounding the paintings is quite straightforward, and the identity of the killer becomes obvious at a certain point, it is still entertaining to follow along with Kiera, Gage, Bree and Anderley as they uncover the clues.
Readers are provided with more information concerning Kiera's past and the revelations are completely unexpected and intriguing - I have to wonder whether ?
There are also updates on Bree and Anderley on again-off again romance, and a novella focusing on their relationship would not be amiss.
In sum, a satisfying read and the minor cliffhanger at the end has be itching to read the next book as soon as its released next year.
January 9, 2023
Review of the audiobook narrated by Heather Wilds.
I always enjoy spending time with Kiera and Gage (especially Gage). This visit was no exception, but I spotted the murderer early on, which kept this one from earning that fifth star. And, as usual, ALH leaves us with a teaser for the next book: Gage's father has been attacked on his way to Edinburgh, and the situation sounds dire. Will this be when Gage and his odious father finally resolve their many differences? Not likely, if you ask me, but we'll have the answer in six months.
Heather Wilds is not my favorite narrator, but I have become accustomed to her sing-song style of delivery.
I always enjoy spending time with Kiera and Gage (especially Gage). This visit was no exception, but I spotted the murderer early on, which kept this one from earning that fifth star. And, as usual, ALH leaves us with a teaser for the next book: Gage's father has been attacked on his way to Edinburgh, and the situation sounds dire. Will this be when Gage and his odious father finally resolve their many differences? Not likely, if you ask me, but we'll have the answer in six months.
Heather Wilds is not my favorite narrator, but I have become accustomed to her sing-song style of delivery.
March 1, 2022
Oh boy. I think I’ve outgrown this series. The writing is heavy-handed—was it always this way, or did it get more so recently?
June 28, 2022
A Perilous Perspective is the latest Lady Darby mystery. After a slow start, for me anyway, the story is very good. Even though I narrowed my suspect list to two halfway through, with the actual murder at the top of my list, I enjoyed the story. Following Lady Darby and Sebastian on their quest for justice was entertaining. Kiera uses her artistic knowledge to help solve the mystery. I like learning about artistic techniques of this era.
A character from the first book in the series, Charlotte, returns with her wedding to Rhys, Kiera's cousin. Kiera uncovers forgeries in her uncle's art collection. This discovery causes the culprit to begin murdering people who know about the fakes, which sets Gage and Lady Darby on a quest to find clues to who is behind the murders.
Many books in this series end with Kiera or Sebastian receiving a "missive" that hints at the next mystery. This message is one of my favorite parts of the story. First, it hints at more lies that Sebastian will learn about his family, and second, it sounds like it will be a good mystery.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Heather Wilds continues with a decent performance of these characters. She isn't my favorite narrator, but she does keep me engaged and wanting more most of the time. There isn't anything wrong with her performance, but her voice doesn't have the same tone and range of the previous books. Just the same, she is entertaining.
A character from the first book in the series, Charlotte, returns with her wedding to Rhys, Kiera's cousin. Kiera uncovers forgeries in her uncle's art collection. This discovery causes the culprit to begin murdering people who know about the fakes, which sets Gage and Lady Darby on a quest to find clues to who is behind the murders.
Many books in this series end with Kiera or Sebastian receiving a "missive" that hints at the next mystery. This message is one of my favorite parts of the story. First, it hints at more lies that Sebastian will learn about his family, and second, it sounds like it will be a good mystery.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Heather Wilds continues with a decent performance of these characters. She isn't my favorite narrator, but she does keep me engaged and wanting more most of the time. There isn't anything wrong with her performance, but her voice doesn't have the same tone and range of the previous books. Just the same, she is entertaining.
January 6, 2025
This series has long since turned into a comfort read for me. I love getting back to these books and these characters. Even though the killer in this one was a bit obvious, I still very much enjoyed this mystery. I feel like the past two books and this one were especially close to the heart because I’m at the same stages of life as Kiera: first pregnant, then with a baby. And even though this is my second daughter rather than the first, it’s still interesting finding myself relating to Kiera’s experiences, fears, and uncertainties.
January 5, 2026
4.5 stars
Keira and Gage visit the Highlands for a wedding, where the discovery of forgeries leads to renewal of old heartaches and feuds…
Great stuff! Lots of intriguing revelations in the past, with the mystery, also related to Keira’s mom and her extended family. The personal and the inquiry blended really well in this installment, with perfect balance. Following Charlotte and Rye as they approach the wedding was a treat, but I most liked getting to see Keira and Gage as parents to little Emma.
Keira and Gage visit the Highlands for a wedding, where the discovery of forgeries leads to renewal of old heartaches and feuds…
Great stuff! Lots of intriguing revelations in the past, with the mystery, also related to Keira’s mom and her extended family. The personal and the inquiry blended really well in this installment, with perfect balance. Following Charlotte and Rye as they approach the wedding was a treat, but I most liked getting to see Keira and Gage as parents to little Emma.
June 8, 2022
Number 10 in the Lady Darby series. This one felt a little repetitive and the stakes were kind of all over the place. The first crime is forgery, before the murder, and the murder is somewhat dismissed. Kiera is insecure about motherhood, which is a little tedious, and she learns some stuff about her mother, but it feels a little forced. The setting is good and the characters are good, but this book just felt a little disappointing.
March 2, 2023
Kiera and her husband Sebastian Gage are in the highlands in preparation of the wedding of her cousin Rye and her friend Charlotte. They all gather at the estate of Rye's great-uncle, the Marquess of Barbreck and while there, Kiera is looking forward to view the Marquess extensive art collection, she is stunned when she discovers a forgery and even more so about the reaction of its owner who is furious. When a maid later dies in front of the forged painting with clear signs of poisoning, Kiera and Gage have to take a closer look at the paintings and at the Marquess' past.
Wow, this was a very interesting read and while I had some idea who was behind the poisoning, I'd have never guessed the whole story! So I was guessing and wondering right along with Kiera about the murderer and the story behind the forged paintings. I deliberately waited some time to read this book as the next one is not out yet but I only have to wait a few more months which I thought was fine. But of course Anna Lee Huber has to end it with a bit of a cliffhanger and now I can hardly wait for the next book.
I'm wondering if Bree and Anderley will at some point get together or if they are not meant to be. It is so clear to me that at least Anderley has real feelings for her while I can only guess with Bree. Either she is over him or she is better at hiding her real feelings. And then there is Lord Henry, Sebastian's half-brother, and I really like how they are spending time together and how he helped with this case. With the ending, I think we will see more of him in the next book as he seems to be interested in meeting his father.
All in all I think this series is getting better with each book and this one was a real gem. I enjoyed it tremendously and cannot wait to start the next one.
Wow, this was a very interesting read and while I had some idea who was behind the poisoning, I'd have never guessed the whole story! So I was guessing and wondering right along with Kiera about the murderer and the story behind the forged paintings. I deliberately waited some time to read this book as the next one is not out yet but I only have to wait a few more months which I thought was fine. But of course Anna Lee Huber has to end it with a bit of a cliffhanger and now I can hardly wait for the next book.
I'm wondering if Bree and Anderley will at some point get together or if they are not meant to be. It is so clear to me that at least Anderley has real feelings for her while I can only guess with Bree. Either she is over him or she is better at hiding her real feelings. And then there is Lord Henry, Sebastian's half-brother, and I really like how they are spending time together and how he helped with this case. With the ending, I think we will see more of him in the next book as he seems to be interested in meeting his father.
All in all I think this series is getting better with each book and this one was a real gem. I enjoyed it tremendously and cannot wait to start the next one.
February 18, 2023
3.5 stars. I enjoyed the latest installment of the Lady Darby series. I was disappointed in how long it took Kiera to realize who the culprit was as I thought it was pretty obvious quite early on but it was still fun to listen to.
This one takes place before Charlotte's wedding and all the getting ready for that. There's her doubts and family difficulties to be taken into account. Aside from that Kiera notices discrepancies in the paintings in the castle, namely that there are forged paintings in the long gallery that is the Marquesses pride and joy. Finding this leads to cover ups and murder that Kiera and Sebastian must solve with the help of those closest to them.
As always, this story ends with a hook for the next one and where and what the mystery is being set up. I'll be reading it when it comes out as they are always good, easy listens with an enjoyable narrator.
This one takes place before Charlotte's wedding and all the getting ready for that. There's her doubts and family difficulties to be taken into account. Aside from that Kiera notices discrepancies in the paintings in the castle, namely that there are forged paintings in the long gallery that is the Marquesses pride and joy. Finding this leads to cover ups and murder that Kiera and Sebastian must solve with the help of those closest to them.
As always, this story ends with a hook for the next one and where and what the mystery is being set up. I'll be reading it when it comes out as they are always good, easy listens with an enjoyable narrator.
April 25, 2022
Another wonderful adventure with Lady Darby and Sebastian Gage! This one starts with Kiera, Gage and their sweet baby daughter Emma in the bosom of her family as the prepare for her cousin Rye's wedding to her dear friend Charlotte. What should have been a relaxing time with family and friends turns into a murder investigation and more when Kiera stumbles upon an art forgeries ring that involves her Great Uncle collection! Intriguing as well as troubling there is more than one death before we get all the answers. Fascinating reading!
March 16, 2022
Full review to come.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 337 reviews