This was my First Lady Petra mystery, and I have to say…not bad. I’m no historian, but the depictions of Victorian-era bordellos, prison systems, and regal holiday festivities seemed to be historically accurate. The author clearly paid attention to detail and did her research! I’m just wondering how this book could be described as “Bridgerton meets Agatha Christie.” I get the latter, but Bridgerton? I don’t see it. The things people will say to sell books.

The characters all seem rather stiff and concerned with decorum, which is a far cry from Bridgerton. I’m more of a stickler for historical accuracy, so I’m a much bigger fan of Petra’s world. As for Petra herself…the jury’s still out. I couldn’t connect with her, maybe because she’s got a hard shell. However, I will give her credit for helping her poor little orphan friend, Teddy, rescue his wrongly accused mom. She also supported the Merry Gentlemen charity, where bachelorettes get to dance and swoon with their chosen Merry Gentleman at one of many holiday balls. It’s all fun and frilly feathered fans until a Merry Gentleman is found dead below the orchestra balcony! Now it’s up to the intrepid Lady Petra to find out whodunnit to save the charity from going bust!

Overall, this is a solid mystery with plenty (perhaps too many) of suspects and red herrings. Admittedly, I had a heck of a time figuring out who’s who because I’m new to the series, and there are a LOT of characters—from the women scientists of the clandestine Minerva society to the slew of Merry Gentlemen and lady contestants to Lady Petra’s circle of friends. I’m glad I didn’t try to listen to this on audio because my mind tends to wander whilst multitasking.

So, yeah, if you like a good Victorian cozy, this one’s for you. But don’t be fooled by the advertising. There is absolutely no Bridgerton-esque spice or improper, dare I say, crass, dialogue.