Reviews

A Study in Death by Anna Lee Huber

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mikaelaaubellona's review against another edition

4.0

This one was a more obvious mystery (I guessed the bad guy correctly which never happens and is also why I hate Clue) so a star knocked off for that, but I love these characters more with every book (although Huber needs to keep Gage as interesting as before because Bonny Brock is swiftly catching up to him in my heart)

bethanyread's review against another edition

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5.0

Really Enjoyed this book. Reading them slightly out of order, but loved this book. The mystery was great - loved the relationship between Gage and Kiera. Kiera is coming out of her shell a little and we have a better feel for her personality -- her relationships with her family members (especially her sister), Gage, and her new friends. Love how Gage is willing to use Kiera's knowledge and is getting closer to treating her as a real partner (especially since she is the one actually solving the murders!). Even like how Kiera treats her future father-in-law. Definitely recommend.

msnyderk's review against another edition

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5.0

Love this series. I love the way Keira and Gage move forward in their relationship amidst the real issues they carry. I really liked Keira's interaction with Gage's father as well. Would love to see her eventually win him over. At first I didn't get where the Philip and Alana storyline was going but I loved when Keira brought the issue to Gage and his understanding of the situation was perfect. Overall, good book!

kelszee's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious medium-paced

4.5

laurenjodi's review against another edition

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4.0

A Study in Death
4 Stars

Eager to escape her sister’s obsessive wedding plans, Lady Kiera Darby gladly accepts a commission to paint Lady Drummond’s portrait. Kiera soon realizes that the Baroness is suffering psychological and perhaps even physical abuse at her husband’s hands. So when Lady Drummond is discovered writhing in agony, Kiera suspects foul play and is determined to uncover the truth no matter where it may lead her …

Warning: There are significant spoilers for books 1-3 in this installment. It is also recommended that the series be read in order so as not to miss out on the excellent character development.

Kiera and Sebastian have taken their slow burn romance to the next level, but there are still outstanding issues between them, such as Sebastian’s secretive nature and overprotective tendencies as well as Kiera’s need to retain her independence and be accepted as an equal. Nevertheless, the love they share and the support they give to one another is key to overcoming all other obstacles and their relationship is definitely going in the right direction.

The case is intriguing and there are several compelling suspects. That said, my suspicions regarding one character in particular ultimately turned out to be accurate, and it is possible to figure out the culprit, if not the actual motive, which is rather convoluted.

The secondary characters all add nuance to the story and enrich the plotting and characterization. The irrepressible Bonnie Brock is a fascinating antagonist and it is clever of Huber to include him as his presence opens up new avenues of investigation that neither Sebastian nor Kiera would have access to without him. Sebastian’s autocratic father, Lord Gage, is another new addition and his confrontations with Kiera are a highlight of the book. Finally, the portrayal of Kiera’s sister’s high risk pregnancy is very realistic and leads to some truly intense moments.

In sum, a well written and entertaining historical mystery series and I’m eager to read the next one when it comes out next month.