Death at the Manor - Historical Mystery Review

Goodreads:  Death at the Manor (Lily Adler Mystery #3) by Katharine Schellman

Rating: Really Liked It! (4 Stars)
Source:   Publisher

Description:  Regency widow Lily Adler is looking forward to spending the autumn away from the social whirl of London society. When she arrives in Hampshire with her friends, Lord and Lady Carroway, she doesn’t expect much more than a quiet country visit and the chance to spend time with her charming new acquaintance, Matthew Spencer.

But something odd is afoot in the small country village. A ghost has taken up residence in the Belleford manor, a lady in grey who wanders the halls at night, weeping and wailing. Half the servants have left in terror, but the family is delighted with the notoriety that their ghost provides. Piqued by this spectral guest, Lily and her party immediately make plans to visit Belleford.

They arrive at the manor the next morning ready to be entertained—but tragedy has struck. The matriarch of the family has just been found smothered to death in her bed.

There was no one else in her room, and the door was locked from the inside. The dead woman’s family is convinced that the ghost is responsible. The servants are keeping secrets. The local magistrate is flummoxed. Lily is determined to learn the truth before another victim turns up—but could she be next in line for the Great Beyond?

 

Genre: Mystery - Historical

Why I Picked This Book:  I really enjoy historical mysteries and I have loved the first two books in this series.

My Impression:  This third book in the series had a slightly different feel than the previous two books.  Lily and her friends are in the country staying with Lily's aunts and near the home of Matthew Spencer.  The pace is a little slower as the pace in the country is a bit slower than the social whirl of London.  While I did miss Mr. Page and Captain Hartley I did enjoy the smaller cast list of this story.  

The mystery is an intriguing one involving a ghost and a house full of secrets with a mild Gothic tone.  The investigation unravels slowly but didn't drag and gave room for some character development.  Lily had to deal with some self doubt and it was nice to see a bit of vulnerability in her character.  The reveal was surprising with more than a few twists and turns and I really enjoyed it!

This is a fun historical series with great characters and interesting mysteries.  I so enjoyed this one and am looking forward to more in the series.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Absolutely!  I can't wait to spend more time with Lily Adler and the rest of her world.

Would I Recommend this Book?  If you enjoy historical mysteries you really must give this series a try!  While you could start with this book with no issue like most series it's best enjoyed when you start from the beginning of the series.

* I received this book in exchange for an honest review.  As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *