The Dead Cannot Hide

Viscount Ware Mysteries #2

by J.L. Buck

In 1812, an aristocratic spy's hunt for a missing governess-aided by an intrepid earl's daughter-escalates into a desperate attempt to prevent a terror attack on the people of London.

284 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 14, 2023

Reviews

[eyes.2c · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once more Ware and Sherry are investigating a mystery. This time on behalf of Ware’s grandmother, the Dowager Duchess. A young girl from the village who took a job as a governess has not been heard of. Her parents are worried.
The more aware investigates the more he is worried. Lady Anne Ashburn becomes involved again.
A growing attraction between Anne and Ware plays out at a distance.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was an interesting ending.
I finished reading this book this morning it was an awesome mystery written in such a grand way with outstanding characters. When I read the first book in the series I was not sure the author could do any better but this book showed me that J.L. Buck is very talented and brilliant author. This book will captivate and entertain I am so glad I got the chance to read it. I did receive a free copy of this book from BookSiren and voluntarily chose to review it.

[LizardQueen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book easy to read, keeping me reading late into the night. I enjoyed the story and hope to read more in this series. This author has a great writing style. Her characters and the world they are in really come to life. This book has lots of witty dialogue and heart racing twists. The romance is on a very slow burn and hopefully will develop more with successive books. The characters are well written and even secondary characters stand out.

I received a free copy of this book from Book Sirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle Teh · Rating 2 out of 5]

I should probably preface this with the fact that perhaps this kind of historical fiction is not for me.
The plot was inspired but the writing style dragged it down a bit. The writing was almost too formal especially when describing the action scenes which I realise is an odd thing to say but I've read classics written by English authors and not been bogged down by the style. My reading experience was akin to a pleasant walk in the country side where I didn't want to be bogged down by too much... emotion.
I realise this is the 2nd book of the series and there is history between Viscount Ware and Lady Anne and especially between him and his father which may not need to be repeated in this novel. However, perhaps it was the droll tone of the writing or the over exaggeration (in comparison with how the characters actually acted around each other) of the estrangement between father and son, but I did not truly feel it. It seems as if the viscount didn't really care one way or another what came of his relationship with his father, except at the most superficial level of a person trying to be vulnerable to another but not actually being vulnerable.
Lady Anne was a character I could not like despite how seemingly likeable she is. She's intelligent and knows her worth. She acts quite independently but also prudently and knows how to charm and joke around within the polite confinement of society. Yet she plays a similar game of push and pull with the viscount. Perhaps the reason I don't trust her is that she plays the society lady too well and I grew up on heroines who were at least a little less perfect.
TBH, the story was pretty solid and though meandering a little, it came back to close the loop. The mystery of a young lady's disappearance being linked to terrorist's plans. How Anne or Lucien uncovered some of the clues that stared them in their faces (though did it really have to be revealed twice that Jack was Jacque?). But it felt like the book desperately needs a good editor to help boil down what's necessary and to correct some of the grammatical errors and that constant droll tone.
Yup, that's my main complaint about the book: the slightly dry sarcasm that never reveals too much vulnerability that permeates every scene when some vulnerability or plain speak might be appreciated. Droll.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

July 1812. Government agent Lucien, Viscount Ware, has been tasked by his grandmother to find governess Lucy Drayton who went missing on November 18th the previous year, from her employment at the Harwicks of Harwick Hall near Blinker's Marsh. He engineers an invitation to a neighbour, the Barnetts of Barnett Park. But soon remains of a body are discovered. But what of the Harwicks and their guests. Suspicions are raised and events accelerate.
An entertaining well-written Regency mystery with its cast of varied characters and its likeable main character. A good addition to this series which can easily be read as a standalone story.
I received a free copy of this book from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Viscount Ware Mysteries #2
Publication Date: 2/14/23
Period: Regency - 1812
Number of Pages: 284

It was the happiest of accidents when I found the first book (The Dead Betray None in this series and I couldn’t wait to find out if the second book would live up to the promises of the first. Well, I can now tell you that it did – it delivered in gold. Aside from the intriguing mystery, spies, civil unrest, and budding romance, one of the things I most admire is the author’s writing style which promptly delivers you to that time and place with laser-sharp accuracy. You see, I am one of those who want that period accuracy in manners, mores, speech, and actions that so many other authors ignore. This author delivers all of that and also manages to present an exciting, edge-of-your-chair, breath-holding, mystery along with a slow-burn romance. Ah, yes! I’ve already bought the next book, The Dead Came Calling, and cannot wait to read it!

Lucien Grey, Viscount Ware, and his best friend Andrew Sherbourne (Sherry) served as spies on the continent until they were betrayed and barely made it back to England alive. Now, having been recruited by the Marquess of Rothe, they are part of the Crown’s secret spies in England where they root out embedded French spies and those Englishmen who actively support the French and incite civil unrest within England.

Lucien is between assignments at the moment and is pleased to receive a summons from his irascible grandmother – who he loves dearly. His grandmother normally resides at the dower house on his father’s country estate, but it seems she has traveled to London to ask for Lucien’s help in finding a young woman, Lucy Drayton, who is missing from their small village. About a year ago, Lucy took a position as governess in the Harwick household and has only contacted her family once since leaving. This is very unlike Lucy, and the Harwicks have not been forthcoming when the family has made inquiries.

Lady Anne Ashburne is best friends with Margaret Barnett and when Lucien explains his task, Margaret immediately asks Lucien to attend a house party her mother will be holding – starting that Wednesday. Margaret’s father’s estate happens to be directly adjacent to the Harwicks – and Lady Anne is, of course, attending the house party as well. (Such happy coincidences).

When skeletal remains are found they have to wonder if it is the missing governess – or another young lady who has gone missing from the same village. Are the two disappearances related? When the investigation accelerates it is all hands on deck to discover what is going on – and who is doing it. When members of their own party meet with threats and injuries, they know they are dealing with more than just a missing governess. But what? You’ll just have to read this fast-paced, exciting story to find out.

While the ending leaves me a bit perplexed about the relationship between Lady Anne and Lucien, I am sure all will come right in the end. That said, I am ready for a true romance. One of my ‘needs’ in any book I read is a romance – and the earlier it comes in a series the more satisfied I am with it. Therefore, I am chomping at the bit to begin reading the third book of the series, and if it doesn’t provide me with a HEA for Lucien and Anne, then, no matter how good the mystery, I might not read the fourth or subsequent books.

I can definitely recommend this book and this series for its attention to detail, period accuracy, intriguing mystery, exciting action, and wonderful characters. So far, I cannot recommend it for the romance, but I am sure that will come. Please.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book by a new (to me) author. Lucien, a spy for the Crown, is summoned by his grandmother to find a missing young woman. While looking into the case on his spare time, he's invited to stay at Margret Barnett's house for the week as part of a party. Margret is a friend of Lady Anne's, and the lovely Lady Anne is Lucien's friend as well as a great help in the investigation. She's also a possible love interest to Lucien. It just so happens the Barnetts are neighbors to the residence where the missing girl Lucy was employed. Odd neighbors they are, and the mysteries escalate. As the mystifying clues go deeper, more questions arise. Plenty of twists and turns, danger, murder and so much more!
I enjoyed Lady Anne's logical outlook and sleuthing skills that seemed to be a good balance to Margret's spontaneous personality. Anne's bravery in seeking out Lucy, as well as another missing young woman's whereabouts became an additional mystery within this well written book. Margret's parents also become involved in finding the missing women, and an unexpected HEA is much appreciated. A few typos, but they did not interfere with the reading.
I heartily recommend this Regency romance! This was a standalone book. I did not read the first book in the series, but I so thoroughly enjoyed "The Dead Cannot Hide" that I intend to read the first book in the near future.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hang on to your seat for a thrill ride. A plot that includes lots of action with treason, murder, mayhem, and a small serving of romance between Lucien and Lady Anne.

The story commences with Lucien; Viscount Ware being summoned by his grandmother to assist in locating a missing girl (Lucy Drayton), who has not been heard from since accepting the governess position at Harwick Hall in Blinker's Marsh. While investigating, Lucien stays with Sir George Barnett and family at Barnett Park where Lady Anne, his love interest, is visiting her best friend, Margret Barnett. Lady Anne is an intelligent young lady with an exceptional memory that comes in handy when assisting with the investigation. Said investigation takes a dark turn when a dead body turns up and the hunt for the killer ensues with Lucien engaging the help of his long-time colleague "Sherry" (Sherbourne) and many others. Expect twists and turns, before the story ends and the perpetrators are brought to justice. This book will keep you up all hours of the night as it is so engrossing!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Viscount Ware series is just as good as the first. Given what seems like a simple task from his grandmother, finding out what happened to a young woman who disappeared, Lord Ware ends up at a house party with Lady Anne Ashburn, who is more than eager to help him with this new mystery.

Once again, Ms. Buck gives us a story that is a real page turner. I literally couldn't put it down until I finished the last page. The mystery was full of twists and turns and action and had a satisfying conclusion. The characters are well-developed, and relatable. My favorite part of the book, though, is the relationship between Lord Ware and Anne. Their friendship continues to grow as they each explore the possibility of a courtship.

I can't recommend this book enough. I absolutely loved it! But you should definitely read the first book in the series, The Dead Betray None, before reading this one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a thrill ride! Just a touch of romance mixed in with a plethora of action to create a story that is so very hard to put down! Lucien is a spy for the Crown , on holiday, and looking into a missing girl his Grandmama wants him to look into. What starts out as a ‘simple’ affair turns in to chaos and mayhem no one expected. Lady Ann and friends love a good mystery and get caught up in the whole affair, much to the chagrin of the men trying to protect them. I loved how the Lady’s- even Momma get involved. The storyline is action packed and though the villains are somewhat easy to pick out, there is a twist you don’t see coming. The action is very well described where you feel you are watching it instead of reading it. I would have liked to seen a little more romance, but maybe with the next book! Love this series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[carolintallahassee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this clean mystery, it started out with our hero, Viscount Ware, whose Grandmother wants him to locate a missing young governess, it is a good premise for a mystery, especially since Lucien works for the British Home Office, as a spy. The last known location of the missing young lady is next door to the manor house where his lady friend, Lady Anne is visiting with her best friend, both young ladies are adventurous and want to help. I find the book like Georgette Heyer, and would recommend it for young girls who like to read, it's that clean, this would be perfect. I tried to give it a 3.5, for me, it is too unromantic, I don't like sexual content, but I do like for some romance throughout the story, kisses, holding hands, thinking about the other person. I appreciate #BookSirens allowing me to read and review this book.

I highly recommend for young girls, early teens. Thank you,

carolintallahassee

[Kirribilligirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the first Viscount Ware Mystery, and the second in the series is equally enjoyable. Set during a volatile time in Britain during the time of Regency. Lord Ware continues to undertake work in hunting out French Spies. This story starts with his grandmother asking him to discover what has happened to a young woman who disappeared. This innocent investigation leads him to a home outside London for a house party and to reconnect with the clever, brilliant Lady Anne. The plotting is tight and intriguing, and the growing attraction between Lucien and Ann is sweet and enjoyable to read. I found the book easy to read, keeping me reading late into the night. I hope the series continues as Lucien reconnects with his estranged father and his growing attraction to Ann. But best of all, Lucien is a beautiful character, and I enjoy following his investigations.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Lucians aunt beckons him to her home he surprise when she asked him to reprise his sleuthing skills to find a missing nanny but when the case goes from the missing to the murdered Lucian knows this is going to be way more dangerous than he first thought. I love these new Victorian cozy mysteries and cannot get enough of them but I am always worried that when reading the second book of a series The book will not be as good as a first one. I was pleasantly surprised to see that wasn’t the case with Lucian and his sleuthing skills. I love Lucian his aunt and the other Greek characters the author tends to put in his path there’s a really great clean mysteries that I cannot get enough of. This is a book I highly recommend I received this book from Book Sirens but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

[Cri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated by the first installment of the viscount Ware series and I jumped at the chance of reading the second book.

Thanks to the author, the publisher and Booksirens for providing me with an ARC.

What follows is my own opinion on the book.

This second book follows Viscount Ware and Lady Anne's attempt to uncover what happened to a governess, Lucy, who disappeared the previous year in mysterious circumstances.

While visiting Margret, a friend of Lady Anne's, whose property neighbors the one in which the missing governess used to work, a corpse is found. Is it Lucy's?

What happened to her? Lady Anne and Margret offer their help to Viscount Ware. What will they uncover?

I found this book really well written and thought out, the plot is interesting and full of unexpected revelations.

Furthermore, I really like the character of Lady Anne: witty and outspoken.

[Kerrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Viscount finds himself searching for a missing girl at his grandmother's request, putting him back in the company of Lady Anne. Their search for the missing girl leads to discovering a corpse, hearing of another missing girl, and stumbling onto a plot of treason & terrorism. This one has plenty of action and kept my attention throughout. Though it is 2nd in the series, it can be read on its own.

I like that Lady Anne is a strong independent character, but still retains the proper behavior of that time frame. The chemistry between the characters and the developing relationship of Lucien and Anne made for a quick, fun, and satisfying read.

Thanks to #BookSirens for the opportunity to enjoy this ARC. I'm leaving this honest review voluntarily.

[Tina Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite enjoyable! This book is book 2 in the Viscount Ware regency mystery series.
I haven’t read book 1 but found that didn’t hinder me from understanding and enjoying book 2. The author included explanations where needed.
I enjoyed the deepening relationship between Lord Ware and Lady Anne. They clearly care for each other but are still in the early stages of their relationship.
The plot was solid, the pace was good and pretty consistent throughout the book, the characters were well developed. I really liked the romance between Wycliffe and Miss Barnett.
I shall be interested to see what happens in the next book since this book ends with a kiss.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The dead cannot hide, but can they keep secrets?
Lucien works for the War Office and takes a few days of much needed rest to investigate the disappearance of a young woman following his grandmother’s request. A second older disappearance comes to light. During his rounds of inquiries, he stumbles on the suspicious behaviour of the inhabitants of a neighbouring estate and his nosing around escalates speedily into a hunt for a group of French spies and rebels.
Well written story with the added bonus of a slow burn romance between Lucien and Anne.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dead Cannot Hide is Book 2 in A Viscount Ware Mystery by J L Buck. I enjoyed reading about several characters from book 1, including Lady Anne, in The Dead Cannot Hide. Lucien Gray works for the War Office as a spy for England. In this book, he is helping his grandmother look for a missing lady who was working as a governess. I thought the mystery was excellent and the author wove the characters in the story perfectly. I found sadness, joy, and a touch of romance. I can't wait to see what Lucien gets into next! I think this series is a wonderful Regency cozy. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Cheryl McTyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read JL Buck's first book, "The Dead Betray None" and was sucked into a historical regency mystery instead of a hiistorical romance. I loved it! I anxiously awaited the second book, and I was not dissapointed. I wanted, no Needed, to know what happened with Lady Anne, Lord Sherbourne and Viscount Ware. This book was another wonderful mystery with a side of romance, with a few annoying friends along the way. It's a great read, she makes you feel like you're there witnessing the action for yourself.

I loved the ending. Is it too early to ask when Book 3 will be released?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dora · Rating 4 out of 5]

What at the beginning was a simple investigation turned into a complicated and very dangerous situation where the safety of many was at stake. Interesting and entertaining as Lucien and Anna are discovering the mystery and I liked the logical and deductive way of thinking of both. Interesting and compelling characters, action, suspense, mystery, emotions of sadness and helplessness, violence and a budding romance. I would have liked a little more interaction between Lucien and Anna and hope things move forward in the next book. I voluntarily reviewed this copy that I received for free from BookSirens.

[Sonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I strongly recommend reading the first book in the series before reading this one. The relationship between Lord Ware and Lady Anne continues as the couple slowly inches their ways towards a courtship. Lucien's dealings with his father, Earl Salcott, also improve. The main focus of this book is Lucien's investigation of a young girl's disappearance. Unfortunately, the search for the missing girl is merely the tip of the iceberg.

This author has a great writing style. Her characters really come to life. Hopefully wedding bells for Anne and Lucien will sounding in the next book!

I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.

[Carol P - H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed the Viscount Ware regency mysteries. “The Dead Cannot Hide” pulled me in and the suspense kept me intrigued. Lady Anne showed a blatant but understandable disregard for her own safety—similar to that of her male counterparts. The romance is low key, but also a pleasing note. Hopefully the relationships will eventually be resolved. I thank the author for an advance review copy and am voluntarily writing this honest review.

[Susan Penley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the second mystery in this series. Lord Ware as well as the supporting characters that help solve the mystery are all likable characters. I found the first half of the book a little slow, however, the second half is full of intrigue and unidentified spies. The start of a romance between Lord Ware and Lady Ann is quite tepid.

I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sven · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not sure how I feel about his book. I did like Ware, but Anne and Margaret got a little annoying with their know it all attitude. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about intelligent and independent women, but these 2 seemed a little too contrived.

The mystery and pace of the book was okay. There are some typos e.g. Eton spelled as Eaton etc…

Overall a decent read, but I'm not sure this series would be one I would get very enthusiastic about.

[Merrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Wonderfully engaging characters and a clever, twisting plot make this a page-turner. It pulled me in and kept me reading right through to the end. I simply couldn't put it down.

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this excellent book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves an intriguing read.

[Peggy Richter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good second book in series

This is the second in the series and it's quite good. The characters are reasonable and the story moves along well. It follows a standard pattern but its well done. There are a few spots where a proofreader could or should have spotted some minor errors but the plot moves along despite them.

[Anita Fuhrmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderfully dramatic regency romantic mystery! I really enjoyed the characters of Lucien, Viscount Ware and Lady Anne, as well as all the twists and turns that the story took before reaching the very satisfying resolution and a HEA? I look forward to reading more by this author in the future!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very quick, yet highly entertaining and action packed story, looking forward to more from these exciting and engaging charters with lots of witty dialog and heart racing twists in this emotional journey. Great read.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Buck does not disappoint with this sequel. Great characters pace through great mysteries.
It's hard to begrudge a hot summer with this book to transport me back to the English Regency period!

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable book with an aristocratic spy duo, storyline filled with adventure snf mystery.