Rating: 4 out of 5.

This is another great cozy mystery with Jane Austen vibes. While this is book 2 of the series, it’s a standalone mystery and can be read without having read the first book. In fact, I’ve read this series completely out of order and I’ve still enjoyed them all.

In this book Professor Phaedra Brighton is once again right in the middle of another murder investigation. This time, the victim is a best-selling author who was attending an immersive Persuasion-themed murder-mystery weekend at her aunt Wendy’s bed and breakfast. The event was supposed to gain attention for her aunt’s inn to boost business, but this isn’t the type of attention they wanted.

Phaedra is a formidable protagonist who is smart, capable and brave. Once she puts her mind to something, she singularly pursues it until she gets her answer. In this book, Phaedra is put in danger on more than one occasion, but remains undaunted in finding the killer. She also obtains some closure with the high school ex-boyfriend that broke her heart.

I liked getting to know Phaedra’s sister and aunt better. I was able to learn more of their backstory, which added depth to the information I learned about them in book 3. Same for Mark, Phaedra’s love interest in the series. If you like cozy mysteries with a Jane Austen flair, this series is a must read.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley and Berkley. All opinions are my own.