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Lavinia Lake and Tobias March #3
Late for the Wedding
New York Times bestselling author Amanda Quick returns with a thrilling new venture into romance and mystery, featuring the most unusual, highly compatible--undeniably combustible--pairing of Tobias March and his mesmerizing partner, Lavinia Lake.
An invitation to a country house party at Beaumont Castle provides a perfect solution to Tobias and Lavinia’s most exasperating how to escape the chaos of London for a remote, relaxing--and above all romantic--retreat from prying eyes and wagging tongues. But the lovers’ plans are foiled when their first cozy interlude of the weekend is disrupted by the appearance of a stunning woman from Tobias’s past. Aspasia Gray’s beauty is as haunting as her connection to Tobias. Her long-deceased fiancé was a friend of his--in addition to being an eccentric assassin. The mysterious nature of the bond between Tobias and Aspasia makes Lavinia more than a little uncomfortable. Especially as her first encounter with Aspasia occurs when she finds her in Tobias’s bedchamber...
It seems Aspasia is seeking protection--and solace--after receiving an ominous message that eerily recalls the past. Suddenly the obstacles standing between Tobias and Lavinia appear greater than just a little London gossip--and far more deadly.
When events at the castle suggest someone is imitating the dead killer’s methods, the team of Lake and March fervently pursue the investigation--and each other--as their leads take them from Society’s most elegant haunts--and most discreet hideaways--to London’s shadiest backstreets. As their relationship heats up, so does the intrigue. Soon Lavinia will have to employ all her talents to flummox the scoundrel who so rudely interrupted her rendezvous. And then she and Tobias can get back to more pleasurable affairs.
An invitation to a country house party at Beaumont Castle provides a perfect solution to Tobias and Lavinia’s most exasperating how to escape the chaos of London for a remote, relaxing--and above all romantic--retreat from prying eyes and wagging tongues. But the lovers’ plans are foiled when their first cozy interlude of the weekend is disrupted by the appearance of a stunning woman from Tobias’s past. Aspasia Gray’s beauty is as haunting as her connection to Tobias. Her long-deceased fiancé was a friend of his--in addition to being an eccentric assassin. The mysterious nature of the bond between Tobias and Aspasia makes Lavinia more than a little uncomfortable. Especially as her first encounter with Aspasia occurs when she finds her in Tobias’s bedchamber...
It seems Aspasia is seeking protection--and solace--after receiving an ominous message that eerily recalls the past. Suddenly the obstacles standing between Tobias and Lavinia appear greater than just a little London gossip--and far more deadly.
When events at the castle suggest someone is imitating the dead killer’s methods, the team of Lake and March fervently pursue the investigation--and each other--as their leads take them from Society’s most elegant haunts--and most discreet hideaways--to London’s shadiest backstreets. As their relationship heats up, so does the intrigue. Soon Lavinia will have to employ all her talents to flummox the scoundrel who so rudely interrupted her rendezvous. And then she and Tobias can get back to more pleasurable affairs.
382 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 20, 2002
About the author
Amanda Quick
97 books5,604 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
October 30, 2021
The 3rd and final in the series had a very satisfying end. I guessed only part of the mystery the rest was a an enjoyable surprise. The book has been reviewed multiple times and I just want to say that I recommend it and rate it 4.5* and round up. The side characters add a lot to the story and it could have gone on with more books as all the characters are well fleshed out.
November 2, 2018
4 Estrellas. Llegué por fin a la conclusión de ésta trilogía, y me ha dejado muy satisfecha. Creo que a cada libro le puse las 4 estrellas. Los tres son muy parecidos, a la vez que entretenidos y divertidos, y como cierre, me ha parecido que “Amantes y Sabuesos” ha estado a la altura.
Esta vez tenemos de nuevo a esta pareja tan singular, a Lavinia y Tobias envueltos en un nuevo caso de asesinato. En los primeros libros hemos visto cómo se conocieron, lo bien que se complementaron trabajando juntos, y cómo empezó su romance. En este tercer libro siguen siendo amantes, pero Tobias quiere algo más, y no sabe si Lavinia estará dispuesta a ceder, lo que necesitan son unas vacaciones juntos, y así es como gracias a Lord Vale, consiguen invitarlos a una fiesta campestre en el castillo de Beaumont.
El problema es que la estancia en el castillo se les complica cuando se presenta Aspasia Gray, una hermosa viuda del pasado de Tobias, que los necesita para una investigación, la cual empieza mucho antes de lo que creían, pues el caso de Aspasia está relacionado con el asesinato que acaban de presenciar en el castillo, cuando uno de sus invitados cae inesperadamente al vacío desde el último piso.
¿Qué coincidencia puede haber entre la amenaza o chantaje que está viviendo Aspasia, junto con los asesinatos de tres nobles en vísperas de casarse? Este tercer libro no iba a ser menos y Amanda Quick se ha trabajado muy bien la investigación. Hasta el final pensé que dejaría algún cabo suelto que no me esperaba, pero lo deja todo bastante cerrado y no me ha decepcionado.
Sobre la trama no puedo hablar mucho más por no desvelar nada del caso que nuestros detectives deben resolver, pero ha estado a la altura y me ha mantenido en vilo durante todo el libro.
En el terreno amoroso es el libro que más me ha satisfecho, lógico, si lo miras desde el punto de vista de que las relaciones románticas ya era hora de que se consolidaran si querías que todo acabara bien. En el romance de Tobias y Lavinia no he tenido queja, en este libro se han complementado muy bien, y no hay resquicios de ésa desconfianza que veía en las primeras novelas, aquí me han demostrado que realmente se quieren y son un equipo.
Sobre las relaciones secundarias, porque sí, hay más de una, también he quedado satisfecha, sobre todo porque tenía muchas ganas de ver juntos a Emeline y Anthony, pero ellos no serán los únicos, Priscilla, la amiga de Emeline por fin conseguirá a su pretendiente, y en el terreno más maduro tenemos a Joan y Lord Vale.
En general este ha sido el libro del cierre y de las conclusiones, pero para mí un libro más de Amanda Quick, que tan bien sabe escribir. Una novela cuidada, y con una investigación impecable, con una pareja divertida y con mucha química. Realmente ha sido un delicia leer ésta trilogía y a la autora en general; la recomiendo si os gusta Amanda Quick, o si disfrutáis de las novelas de romance histórico con tintes detectivescos, puede que la trama eclipse al romance, pero es normal en ésta escritora, y en la mayoría de sus libros que he leído, pero para mí es una lectura segura.
Esta vez tenemos de nuevo a esta pareja tan singular, a Lavinia y Tobias envueltos en un nuevo caso de asesinato. En los primeros libros hemos visto cómo se conocieron, lo bien que se complementaron trabajando juntos, y cómo empezó su romance. En este tercer libro siguen siendo amantes, pero Tobias quiere algo más, y no sabe si Lavinia estará dispuesta a ceder, lo que necesitan son unas vacaciones juntos, y así es como gracias a Lord Vale, consiguen invitarlos a una fiesta campestre en el castillo de Beaumont.
El problema es que la estancia en el castillo se les complica cuando se presenta Aspasia Gray, una hermosa viuda del pasado de Tobias, que los necesita para una investigación, la cual empieza mucho antes de lo que creían, pues el caso de Aspasia está relacionado con el asesinato que acaban de presenciar en el castillo, cuando uno de sus invitados cae inesperadamente al vacío desde el último piso.
¿Qué coincidencia puede haber entre la amenaza o chantaje que está viviendo Aspasia, junto con los asesinatos de tres nobles en vísperas de casarse? Este tercer libro no iba a ser menos y Amanda Quick se ha trabajado muy bien la investigación. Hasta el final pensé que dejaría algún cabo suelto que no me esperaba, pero lo deja todo bastante cerrado y no me ha decepcionado.
Sobre la trama no puedo hablar mucho más por no desvelar nada del caso que nuestros detectives deben resolver, pero ha estado a la altura y me ha mantenido en vilo durante todo el libro.
En el terreno amoroso es el libro que más me ha satisfecho, lógico, si lo miras desde el punto de vista de que las relaciones románticas ya era hora de que se consolidaran si querías que todo acabara bien. En el romance de Tobias y Lavinia no he tenido queja, en este libro se han complementado muy bien, y no hay resquicios de ésa desconfianza que veía en las primeras novelas, aquí me han demostrado que realmente se quieren y son un equipo.
Sobre las relaciones secundarias, porque sí, hay más de una, también he quedado satisfecha, sobre todo porque tenía muchas ganas de ver juntos a Emeline y Anthony, pero ellos no serán los únicos, Priscilla, la amiga de Emeline por fin conseguirá a su pretendiente, y en el terreno más maduro tenemos a Joan y Lord Vale.
En general este ha sido el libro del cierre y de las conclusiones, pero para mí un libro más de Amanda Quick, que tan bien sabe escribir. Una novela cuidada, y con una investigación impecable, con una pareja divertida y con mucha química. Realmente ha sido un delicia leer ésta trilogía y a la autora en general; la recomiendo si os gusta Amanda Quick, o si disfrutáis de las novelas de romance histórico con tintes detectivescos, puede que la trama eclipse al romance, pero es normal en ésta escritora, y en la mayoría de sus libros que he leído, pero para mí es una lectura segura.
March 23, 2010
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it's the last one in the Lake & March series. Lavinia & Tobias are the most entertaining sleuth duo since Maddie Hayes and David Addison. The murder mystery is complicated and engrossing. The secondary couples, Anthony and Emeline, and Lady Dove and Lord Vale, serve to move the plot along in substantial ways but are also interesting couples in their own right. The addition of Dominic Hood seemed excessive at first but his conflict with Anthony helps shed light on Tobias' character.
I would love to see this series adapted for the silver screen.
I would love to see this series adapted for the silver screen.
November 16, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
Trilogia terminada.
La historia de Tobias y Lavinia me encantó. No se trata de solo un romance. La autora agrega en una trama de detectives, un montón de planteos sobre la época que retrata, sobre todo del rol de las mujeres.
La escritura es muy buena, la parte histórica es correcta, y los personajes estan bien construidos.
La pareja de viudos detectives, va a resolver diferentes misterios a lo largo de los tres libros. Además su relación se va profundizando.
Hay crítica social sobre las clases bajas en la época, (1815), relaciones prohibidas, mujeres independientes y muchos temas tratados con mucho humor.
El humor destaca, tanto en los diálogos como en las situaciones que viven los personajes.
Un final un tanto abrupto para mi gusto, pero que cierra perfectamente.
Lo recomiendo.
Trilogia terminada.
La historia de Tobias y Lavinia me encantó. No se trata de solo un romance. La autora agrega en una trama de detectives, un montón de planteos sobre la época que retrata, sobre todo del rol de las mujeres.
La escritura es muy buena, la parte histórica es correcta, y los personajes estan bien construidos.
La pareja de viudos detectives, va a resolver diferentes misterios a lo largo de los tres libros. Además su relación se va profundizando.
Hay crítica social sobre las clases bajas en la época, (1815), relaciones prohibidas, mujeres independientes y muchos temas tratados con mucho humor.
El humor destaca, tanto en los diálogos como en las situaciones que viven los personajes.
Un final un tanto abrupto para mi gusto, pero que cierra perfectamente.
Lo recomiendo.
May 2, 2014
Cute, per usual!
July 10, 2020
Late for the Wedding
4 Stars
In this third and final installment, private inquiry agents Lavinia Lake and Tobias March attend a house party in the country in an attempt to finally have some intimate time together. Unfortunately, their amorous interlude is interrupted when a man plummets to his death right in front of them. Soon they are on the trail of a daring assassin with a troubling connection to Tobias's past.
This series has been a delightful romp from start to finish. Tobias and Lavinia's ongoing romantic exploits are very entertaining as is their banter and chemistry.
While the mysteries in each book are on the predictable side, and the investigation in this book is no exception, the cases are interesting enough to keep turning the pages and the final explanations and resolutions are satisfying - there is even a solid twist at the end of this particular case.
All in all, I'm sad to say goodbye to these charming characters, but loo forward to continuing my foray into Amanda Quick's backlist.
4 Stars
In this third and final installment, private inquiry agents Lavinia Lake and Tobias March attend a house party in the country in an attempt to finally have some intimate time together. Unfortunately, their amorous interlude is interrupted when a man plummets to his death right in front of them. Soon they are on the trail of a daring assassin with a troubling connection to Tobias's past.
This series has been a delightful romp from start to finish. Tobias and Lavinia's ongoing romantic exploits are very entertaining as is their banter and chemistry.
While the mysteries in each book are on the predictable side, and the investigation in this book is no exception, the cases are interesting enough to keep turning the pages and the final explanations and resolutions are satisfying - there is even a solid twist at the end of this particular case.
All in all, I'm sad to say goodbye to these charming characters, but loo forward to continuing my foray into Amanda Quick's backlist.
June 2, 2018
3.5/5
Muy entretenida la historia. Aunque yo hecho de menos algo más de desarrollo entre ellos. Desconozco si la autora tiene algún otro libro sobre esta pareja pero me gustaría ver como se desarrolla más profundamente su relación. También me gustaría saber más de Emeline, Anthony, Dominic y Priscilla
Muy entretenida la historia. Aunque yo hecho de menos algo más de desarrollo entre ellos. Desconozco si la autora tiene algún otro libro sobre esta pareja pero me gustaría ver como se desarrolla más profundamente su relación. También me gustaría saber más de Emeline, Anthony, Dominic y Priscilla
June 14, 2018
"Da bi se ostvarili, neki su snovi vrijedni poduzetog rizika." Lijep završetak trilogije, s kojim se apsolutno slažem.
June 10, 2022
Not bad, but I knew who the killer was from the very beginning.
August 10, 2024
Satisfying conclusion to the romance plot of this Regency romantic-suspense trilogy from 2002
Lavinia and Tobias head to a country house party at the home of a rich aristocrat, hoping to have plenty of opportunities to have sex in an actual bed, because nobody keeps track of the mature guests during such events. Lavinia and Tobias are both widowed and answerable to no one regarding their affair as long as they are discreet. But unfortunately, at the very moment they are about to get lucky with each other for the first time that weekend, someone falls off the roof, screaming all the way down, passing right by their window. It is soon obvious that they have witnessed a murder, and they get caught up in an investigation.
My reviews of the first two books in this trilogy provide information about the setup for the romantic and business partnership between Lavinia and Tobias, which I won't repeat here. They are the FMC and MMC throughout this sequential series. This book serves as an entertaining wrap-up to the trilogy. The HEA is satisfying both for their romance and for the two secondary romances.
The suspense plot for this novel is interestingly convoluted and is believably tied up in full.
Overall, I found this trilogy well worth reading, especially because I got free access to the audiobook version of all three books through my Audible membership.
Lavinia and Tobias head to a country house party at the home of a rich aristocrat, hoping to have plenty of opportunities to have sex in an actual bed, because nobody keeps track of the mature guests during such events. Lavinia and Tobias are both widowed and answerable to no one regarding their affair as long as they are discreet. But unfortunately, at the very moment they are about to get lucky with each other for the first time that weekend, someone falls off the roof, screaming all the way down, passing right by their window. It is soon obvious that they have witnessed a murder, and they get caught up in an investigation.
My reviews of the first two books in this trilogy provide information about the setup for the romantic and business partnership between Lavinia and Tobias, which I won't repeat here. They are the FMC and MMC throughout this sequential series. This book serves as an entertaining wrap-up to the trilogy. The HEA is satisfying both for their romance and for the two secondary romances.
The suspense plot for this novel is interestingly convoluted and is believably tied up in full.
Overall, I found this trilogy well worth reading, especially because I got free access to the audiobook version of all three books through my Audible membership.
September 7, 2008
The third and last in the Lavinia Lake/Tobias March series, this one is perhaps my favorite of the three, although they are all terrific. The plot line has the novelty of the four private investigators (helped by their two higher-born friends) pursuing an early version of a "hit man". By now, the characters seem like old friends. Lord Vale and Joan Dove are back, Anthony and Emeline develop further as characters, and Priscilla gets a bigger part (very minor role in the first two). She is joined by a new character, Dominic Hood. But of course, the book centers around Lavinia and Tobias, as they weave and dance towards marriage. Perhaps Ms. Krentz will return to these characters sometime in the future. With any luck their adventures could go on forever . . . a Regency version of Nick and Nora.
June 24, 2018
Libro final de la serie "Amantes y sabuesos"
Esta serie de tres libros nos cuenta las andanzas de dos investigadores privados en la Inglaterra posterior a la caída de Napoleón. Ellos son Tobías, ex espía, y Lavinia, ex hipnotizadora y buscavidas en general. Cada libro desarrolla un misterio diferente y lo que une a los tres es la evolución del romance entre ambos.
Ellos son adultos y viudos, así que no tienen remilgos en relacionarse íntimamente desde el primer libro por lo que son los sentimientos los que van evolucionando.
Me resultó muy divertida, en general, la serie. Pero justamente este último se lleva el peor puntaje: tres estrellas, quizá 3 y media.
¿Porqué?
Tenía la expectativa que en este volumen se iba a profundizar la parte romántica. Son adultos, tienen una vida amorosa pasada, miedo a una nueva relación comprometida, Lavinia tiene miedo a perder su independencia como viuda, etc. Y todo es resuelto bastante por arriba. Pero bien.
Por otra parte, la autora repite demasiado las historias pasadas en libros anteriores, los hechos, el pasado de los personajes secundarios, incluso vuelve a poner personajes que en la trama de este volumen no importan demasiado. Estas cosas hicieron enlentecer la historia. En mi opinión.
Supongo que en la época que fue escrito (2003), todavía no estaban de moda las trilogías y Amanda los trató como libros que se pueden leer en forma independiente aunque, pienso que hubiera quedado bien como novela en tres entregas.
En definitiva, a pesar de todo, disfruté de la historia.
Sugiero leerla seguiditas.
Esta serie de tres libros nos cuenta las andanzas de dos investigadores privados en la Inglaterra posterior a la caída de Napoleón. Ellos son Tobías, ex espía, y Lavinia, ex hipnotizadora y buscavidas en general. Cada libro desarrolla un misterio diferente y lo que une a los tres es la evolución del romance entre ambos.
Ellos son adultos y viudos, así que no tienen remilgos en relacionarse íntimamente desde el primer libro por lo que son los sentimientos los que van evolucionando.
Me resultó muy divertida, en general, la serie. Pero justamente este último se lleva el peor puntaje: tres estrellas, quizá 3 y media.
¿Porqué?
Tenía la expectativa que en este volumen se iba a profundizar la parte romántica. Son adultos, tienen una vida amorosa pasada, miedo a una nueva relación comprometida, Lavinia tiene miedo a perder su independencia como viuda, etc. Y todo es resuelto bastante por arriba. Pero bien.
Por otra parte, la autora repite demasiado las historias pasadas en libros anteriores, los hechos, el pasado de los personajes secundarios, incluso vuelve a poner personajes que en la trama de este volumen no importan demasiado. Estas cosas hicieron enlentecer la historia. En mi opinión.
Supongo que en la época que fue escrito (2003), todavía no estaban de moda las trilogías y Amanda los trató como libros que se pueden leer en forma independiente aunque, pienso que hubiera quedado bien como novela en tres entregas.
En definitiva, a pesar de todo, disfruté de la historia.
Sugiero leerla seguiditas.
August 4, 2018
This series got slowly less good as it progressed.
1) The assistant problem persists in that both the niece and brother-in-law are good to the point of blandness, and are less interesting than the main couple. I skimmed their sections. I mean, I do like their slightly shady rich aristocrat friends who are actually interesting, but they do not make up for the tedious assistants.
2) The main couple are close enough that their inability to have a conversation/constant delaying of said conversation about where they see their relationship going makes no sense. They actually communicate well on essentially every other topic, SO.
3) The mesmerism aspect (and March's apparently innate mesmerism powers) got a bit much in this one.
Bit of a let-down.
1) The assistant problem persists in that both the niece and brother-in-law are good to the point of blandness, and are less interesting than the main couple. I skimmed their sections. I mean, I do like their slightly shady rich aristocrat friends who are actually interesting, but they do not make up for the tedious assistants.
2) The main couple are close enough that their inability to have a conversation/constant delaying of said conversation about where they see their relationship going makes no sense. They actually communicate well on essentially every other topic, SO.
3) The mesmerism aspect (and March's apparently innate mesmerism powers) got a bit much in this one.
Bit of a let-down.
Read
November 3, 2017Wasn't sure how I'd feel about following the same hero & heroine through three books, but this trilogy worked. I liked each book better than the last! :)
Book 1 - Slightly Shady
Book 2 - Don't Look Back
*be sure to read in order*
Book 1 - Slightly Shady
Book 2 - Don't Look Back
*be sure to read in order*
March 6, 2020
This was another wonderful reread of Late for the Wedding by Amanda Quick. I love the main characters AQ creates. The women are independent thinking, flexible, persistent, intelligent women regardless of their social standing or financial means; they believe in possibilities. The men may have rough edges, be of high social standing or not, they are hard working men of integrity who respect independent thinking women, even when they are challenged and frustrated by them. :D
Late for the Wedding’s main characters are no exceptions. Lavinia Lake and Tobias March begin their business and personal association in book #1, Slightly Shady, that truly starts with a “Bang!” The action and adventure continues in Don’t Look Back as they continue working together as private investigators investigating a new case involving murder and the disappearance of an item of antiquity. The trilogy concludes with bk#3, Late for the Wedding as Lavinia and Tobias investigate what appears to be a succession of murders for hire. Again the investigation draws Lavinia and Tobias into the secret and private lives of both the upper and the lower classes. I love that Amanda Quick novels involve adventures with a touch of mystery and humor, and that the FMC and the MMC must work together in solving it, oftentimes putting themselves at risk. Yet there is always a guaranteed HEA.
As mentioned, Late for the Wedding is book #3 in a trilogy involving Lavinia Lake and Tobias March. Slightly Shady is #1 and Don’t Look Back is #2. I highly recommend this series to readers of historical fiction who enjoy strong, independent characters, a bit of adventure, a touch of humor between the main characters, low angst, and a cooperative effort of the main characters toward a mutual goal. Each book in this series could be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend all 3 novels (in order).
Late for the Wedding does contain several on-scene sexual situations between the 2 main characters which is somewhere between sweet and steamy (3 or 3.5 on a 0 to 5, sweet to steamy scale) which results from their growing attraction and love, and their mutual respect. The sexual aspect is not the main focus of the novel, IMO. Late for the Wedding contains some profanity, and although several individuals are murdered in Late for the Wedding, I did not find it graphic in nature. Yet due to the aforementioned, I do not recommend Late for the Wedding to young readers or to those who would be offended by the content.
Late for the Wedding’s main characters are no exceptions. Lavinia Lake and Tobias March begin their business and personal association in book #1, Slightly Shady, that truly starts with a “Bang!” The action and adventure continues in Don’t Look Back as they continue working together as private investigators investigating a new case involving murder and the disappearance of an item of antiquity. The trilogy concludes with bk#3, Late for the Wedding as Lavinia and Tobias investigate what appears to be a succession of murders for hire. Again the investigation draws Lavinia and Tobias into the secret and private lives of both the upper and the lower classes. I love that Amanda Quick novels involve adventures with a touch of mystery and humor, and that the FMC and the MMC must work together in solving it, oftentimes putting themselves at risk. Yet there is always a guaranteed HEA.
As mentioned, Late for the Wedding is book #3 in a trilogy involving Lavinia Lake and Tobias March. Slightly Shady is #1 and Don’t Look Back is #2. I highly recommend this series to readers of historical fiction who enjoy strong, independent characters, a bit of adventure, a touch of humor between the main characters, low angst, and a cooperative effort of the main characters toward a mutual goal. Each book in this series could be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend all 3 novels (in order).
Late for the Wedding does contain several on-scene sexual situations between the 2 main characters which is somewhere between sweet and steamy (3 or 3.5 on a 0 to 5, sweet to steamy scale) which results from their growing attraction and love, and their mutual respect. The sexual aspect is not the main focus of the novel, IMO. Late for the Wedding contains some profanity, and although several individuals are murdered in Late for the Wedding, I did not find it graphic in nature. Yet due to the aforementioned, I do not recommend Late for the Wedding to young readers or to those who would be offended by the content.
February 12, 2012
SOA Listening Challenge 2012: Spread Your Listening
Historical 4/4
3.5*
Grade B
I've enjoyed all three of the Lavinia Lake, Tobias March books, but this is definitely my favorite. The suspense plot was good, with interesting twists. I knew something odd was going on, but couldn't figure out the timing. The ending was interesting and satisfying. While I could have done without the slightly paranormal parts of the books, overall I enjoyed the characters in all three, and in this one especially. I felt Lavinia and Tobias worked much better together in this book, and there was less stubbornness and arguing going on. I liked the mutual respect they showed and the way they worked together.
The narrator, Josephine Bailey, was quite good. Definitely a 4 star or better narration.
Historical 4/4
3.5*
Grade B
I've enjoyed all three of the Lavinia Lake, Tobias March books, but this is definitely my favorite. The suspense plot was good, with interesting twists. I knew something odd was going on, but couldn't figure out the timing. The ending was interesting and satisfying. While I could have done without the slightly paranormal parts of the books, overall I enjoyed the characters in all three, and in this one especially. I felt Lavinia and Tobias worked much better together in this book, and there was less stubbornness and arguing going on. I liked the mutual respect they showed and the way they worked together.
The narrator, Josephine Bailey, was quite good. Definitely a 4 star or better narration.
February 18, 2015
Bon ben j'ai fini les 3... j'ai dévoré les 3 .... ok ça se lit vite, parce que c'est frais, c'est mignon sans être gnagnan....♥ Parce Lavinia et Tobias sont ♥♥♥ Et que les filles de ces livres ne se laissent pas marcher sur les pieds (même celles qui sont toutes mimi).
Que j'adore les échanges entre les héros et entre les autres aussi... c'était parfait pour mettre du soleil dans les lectures ♥
Que j'adore les échanges entre les héros et entre les autres aussi... c'était parfait pour mettre du soleil dans les lectures ♥
February 2, 2009
Can not for the life of me remember why I thought reading this might be a good idea.
September 21, 2026
The last book in the Lake and March historical mystery series has the couple looking for a killer's apprentice from March's past. The first murder occurs at a house party where March had hoped to finally be able to spend some quality time with Lake in a real bed and with no need to rush their passion. However, when an old friend appears and when Lavinia witnesses the murder victim fall screaming from the roof, those nice romantic plans change.
Aspasia Gray hires March when she receives a threatening message. Her partner who was March's protegee in spycraft turned out to have been a murderer for hire who committed suicide when he was about to be caught. It seems someone is trying to recreate his criminal techniques.
After finding some possible victims, Lake and March need to track down a killer. Lavinia Lake comes to be convinced that the killer has been hired by some high society ladies to prevent their granddaughters from being married in most unsuitable marriages.
Tobias isn't convinced at first that the new killer is doing what Lavinia believes. He thinks the killer might be out for revenge. In either case, Lake and March need to follow the clues to the killer from wig shops to high society to the more dangerous parts of London.
Lavinia and Tobias also find their personal relationship heating up. Tobias would like to marry Lavinia and her niece and his brother-in-law are very much in favor of that. Tobias doesn't feel that he has the financial security to make the offer, and he learns that marriage is not necessarily something a woman wants because of the legal implications for her.
This was an entertaining historical romance and historical mystery.
Aspasia Gray hires March when she receives a threatening message. Her partner who was March's protegee in spycraft turned out to have been a murderer for hire who committed suicide when he was about to be caught. It seems someone is trying to recreate his criminal techniques.
After finding some possible victims, Lake and March need to track down a killer. Lavinia Lake comes to be convinced that the killer has been hired by some high society ladies to prevent their granddaughters from being married in most unsuitable marriages.
Tobias isn't convinced at first that the new killer is doing what Lavinia believes. He thinks the killer might be out for revenge. In either case, Lake and March need to follow the clues to the killer from wig shops to high society to the more dangerous parts of London.
Lavinia and Tobias also find their personal relationship heating up. Tobias would like to marry Lavinia and her niece and his brother-in-law are very much in favor of that. Tobias doesn't feel that he has the financial security to make the offer, and he learns that marriage is not necessarily something a woman wants because of the legal implications for her.
This was an entertaining historical romance and historical mystery.
September 17, 2019
As part of my new Themed Reading challenge called “Finish Series You Actually Start” - catchy title I know - I made myself read this largely unnecessary third book in the Lavinia/March ‘mystery’ series.
The Ms. Quick romance tropes and light mystery abound here; there is nothing awful about the writing as expected but this book and especially the romance should have ended in book 2. The love story remains firmly on the surface as “cute”. The leads are not still not married here and the dynamics of the affair remain pretty much the same as Book 2. It would have been more interesting if the romance had show the post-marriage life as it would have provided a better pace to the romance and given the trilogy some symmetry that it needed.
The mystery was simple and competent enough but hardly gets much attention, unlike Book 1. There was an attempt to mirror and contrast this mystery from the one in Book 2. Book 2 was about a case brought on by Lavinia, this one is about March and his history - a gender swap as it were. Nonetheless, the dynamics of the sleuthing partnership did not change. Tobias still had to rescue Lavinia who remained on the backfoot throughout.
There were no real stakes in the mystery which is generally the issue with Ms. Quick’s mystery books. If the romance drags then the book drags as the mystery doesn’t have enough buoyancy in it. The romance in this book had played its course and didn’t keep my interest.
Overall - this was a competent but not compelling book. I give it an average 2 stars in the end.
The Ms. Quick romance tropes and light mystery abound here; there is nothing awful about the writing as expected but this book and especially the romance should have ended in book 2. The love story remains firmly on the surface as “cute”. The leads are not still not married here and the dynamics of the affair remain pretty much the same as Book 2. It would have been more interesting if the romance had show the post-marriage life as it would have provided a better pace to the romance and given the trilogy some symmetry that it needed.
The mystery was simple and competent enough but hardly gets much attention, unlike Book 1. There was an attempt to mirror and contrast this mystery from the one in Book 2. Book 2 was about a case brought on by Lavinia, this one is about March and his history - a gender swap as it were. Nonetheless, the dynamics of the sleuthing partnership did not change. Tobias still had to rescue Lavinia who remained on the backfoot throughout.
There were no real stakes in the mystery which is generally the issue with Ms. Quick’s mystery books. If the romance drags then the book drags as the mystery doesn’t have enough buoyancy in it. The romance in this book had played its course and didn’t keep my interest.
Overall - this was a competent but not compelling book. I give it an average 2 stars in the end.
September 13, 2026
I’ve clearly entered my Amanda Quick era, and this trilogy solidified her as a fave for me when I’m looking for a bit of mystery with my romance. Not only was I addicted to the really complex and well-thought-out murder investigations the pair were undergoing, Lavinia and Tobias have such a great banter and chemistry. I looooove these two! By this book they are so solidly in love, but the question of marriage keeps coming up, except for between the two. Honestly, I didn’t care so much if they got married, I was so swoony by their solidly built romance and the clear love and devotion they shared. I also need to take a moment to shout about their wards as well, the secondhand romance between Anthony and Emmeline gave me so much joy. Getting their POVs throughout was a special treat! If you’re wanting to read a really compelling mystery combined with a steamy romance plot, you need to read this series. And then message me so we can gush and figure out how to get more of these Lake-March mysteries!
5/5
murder mystery house party, ex-spy MMC, investigative business partners, past comes back
5/5
murder mystery house party, ex-spy MMC, investigative business partners, past comes back
June 28, 2021
The third and final entry in the Lavinia Lake Tobias March series looks into a series of mysterious deaths. While at a country house party a man falls from a roof. Despite being told otherwise Lavinia suspects murder which gets them thrown out and sent home early. They soon make a connection between that death and others that were written off as accidental or suicides. This was engaging, I do feel like the story was dragging on a bit. There's lots of back and forth about if Emmeline and Anthony and Lavinia and Tobias will get married and where they will live. There's still the running gag of Mrs. Chilton going for currants and Lavinia not getting what they need all those currants for and why Tobias seems to love them so much. There's also an appearance by an old flame of Tobias which was interesting. Not a bad last entry but I think this series went on just long enough.
Read
June 12, 2022I really liked the tone and dynamics between the MMC and the FMC. It's period appropriate and interesting.
The mystery part of the book was interesting and novel. This isn't a butler-did-it novel and the clues the MCs follow are unique and different. One does has have to squint past the preferences and styles of the time period, but if you roll with it, things are logical and different.
While there is on-page sex, it's not scorching sex. There's a toned-down aspect to the romance that is at once in keeping with the time period (and characters) and on the other hand, a bit disappointing in its realism.
This is a solid read for readers who like a stable romance (equal partners with a strong FMC) and a robust mystery plot.
The mystery part of the book was interesting and novel. This isn't a butler-did-it novel and the clues the MCs follow are unique and different. One does has have to squint past the preferences and styles of the time period, but if you roll with it, things are logical and different.
While there is on-page sex, it's not scorching sex. There's a toned-down aspect to the romance that is at once in keeping with the time period (and characters) and on the other hand, a bit disappointing in its realism.
This is a solid read for readers who like a stable romance (equal partners with a strong FMC) and a robust mystery plot.
February 4, 2020
This 3rd and final book in the Lake/March trilogy ties into Tobias March's days as a spy for England. Someone from his past returns after receiving a death threat. Lake and March investigate to find that a tragic murder case from March's past isn't as complete as he'd hoped. Strong secondary characters and great dialog elevate this mystery with romantic elements. Many will appreciate that both the mystery and romance stay PG-13, but I thought it should have gone darker given some of the elements involved in the story.
Side note: I can't figure out why this is titled Late for the Wedding. What wedding? There isn't a wedding in the book.
Side note: I can't figure out why this is titled Late for the Wedding. What wedding? There isn't a wedding in the book.
May 4, 2024
Loved the last book of this series. Great mystery, well plotted and executed. The fondness and compatibility of this couple is just charming. The story has humor, suspense, danger, murder, romance and a lot of wonderful side characters.
It is hard to find a mystery with a bantering couple as main characters. Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence, Suzanne Enoch's Samantha Jellicoe and Rick, Penny Reid's Ninja with Greg and Fiona, if any of you have more along these lines please message me.
Highly recommend this series!
It is hard to find a mystery with a bantering couple as main characters. Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence, Suzanne Enoch's Samantha Jellicoe and Rick, Penny Reid's Ninja with Greg and Fiona, if any of you have more along these lines please message me.
Highly recommend this series!
July 4, 2026
Paskutinė serijos dalis. Besivystančios meilės istorijos tarp kelių porų. Naujas žmogžudystės tyrimas, naujos paslaptys ir pavojai. Man labai patinka, kad šioje serijoje pagrindiniai veikėjai yra vyresnio amžiaus žmonės, turintys jaunų globotinių, kuriais rūpinasi. Suteikia istorijai savitą aspektą ir savitas problemas.
October 4, 2019
Audiobook was well done. Good narration and engaging story
March 21, 2017
Sweet and in keeping with the rest of the series. I thought the Emiline/Anthony story would get wrapped up more neatly, but I was impressed with the misdirection away from the killer for most of the book. I knew it was her, but the book kept insisting it wasn't just long enough for me to doubt my read on the situation.
April 14, 2015
Author: Amanda Quick
First published: 2003
Length: 417 pages (Large Print)
Setting: London, Regency.
Sex: Fade to black. Infrequent.
Hero: Private Investigator. Widower left with the raising of his (now adult) brother-in-law.
Heroine: Private Investigator. Widow left with the raising of her (now adult) niece.
Enjoyable, easy, well-written, light sex, light mystery.
An Amanda Quick book.
Finishes off my reading the Quick backlist, with a new one (Garden of Lies) just released, and they are all perfectly good books. Light and fluffy with a little humour.
Nothing dramatically different. Comfortable reads.
Lavinia Lake and Tobias March:
Book 1 Slightly Shady
Book 2 Don't Look Back
Book 3 Late for the Wedding
References:
Author's website: http://www.krentz-quick.com
(ISBN 9780753174050)
-CR-
First published: 2003
Length: 417 pages (Large Print)
Setting: London, Regency.
Sex: Fade to black. Infrequent.
Hero: Private Investigator. Widower left with the raising of his (now adult) brother-in-law.
Heroine: Private Investigator. Widow left with the raising of her (now adult) niece.
Enjoyable, easy, well-written, light sex, light mystery.
An Amanda Quick book.
Finishes off my reading the Quick backlist, with a new one (Garden of Lies) just released, and they are all perfectly good books. Light and fluffy with a little humour.
Nothing dramatically different. Comfortable reads.
Lavinia Lake and Tobias March:
Book 1 Slightly Shady
Book 2 Don't Look Back
Book 3 Late for the Wedding
References:
Author's website: http://www.krentz-quick.com
(ISBN 9780753174050)
-CR-
May 26, 2012
Amanda Quick’s specialty using this pen-name (she’s Jayne Krantz as well), is 1810-1820’s London mysteries. Unlike most books of their era it probably points to a more forward thinking, i.e. industrial revolution was coming and work class would have been impacted at that time. Mrs. Lake is a paragon for the modern women; she works at ‘discrete investigations’ with her sometimes partner Mr. March. The novels (series of three and this is the third and final of that series), has a definite Sherlock Holmes feel to it, with sharp clever assistants, access to the ton as well as the underbelly of London. This story is about a generational murderer called the memento moray man, who kills those in his estimation worthy of killing. Essentially he is a vigilante; it’s obviously generational where the memento’s left have covered murders over many decades. One of these men Mr. March had already caught in his past. Now he and Mrs. Lake join forces to find the latest. The characters are rich and wonderful, so British, so logical. Even the secondary characters which many are carried from book to book grow on you. Highly recommend this series, all three are gems in my estimation. If you can, try the audio book version, the voices are perfect.
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