Catherine Gray

This is the third in the Austenesque mystery series featuring Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney. Written in the style of Jane Austen, Jonathan is the son of Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy and his wife, the former Elizabeth Bennet. Juliet is the daughter of residents of Northanger Abbey. Challenging the mores of the time, they have worked together investigating and solving two prior murders. This time, they are called to the home of Jonathan’s great aunt, the formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who has been the victim of two attempts on her life. As further attempts are made, the pair, somewhat stymied, work diligently to solve the mystery while shying away from what may be a budding romance between them. Other characters familiar to Austen readers play roles in the story.

This is a delightful book! I enjoy the young characters….both of them with their intelligence, unique charm, and Juliet’s willingness to accept Jonathan’s somewhat neurodivergent behaviors. The mystery is well plotted and kept me guessing. Gray remains true to the Austen writing style and employs a good sense of humor. I can’t remember the last book that made me laugh out loud a few times as this one did.

Although I did read and liked one of the prior novels in this series, this one works well as a standalone. They are so charming, though, I would suggest reading all three to thoroughly enjoy the characters. You do not have to be overly familiar (or remember!) Austen’s writings to appreciate these books for their plots and reflection of the society at that time. My advice is to read them slowly to savor the language and nuances.

I am looking forward to the next installment.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @aaKnopf for the DRC… (mehr)