A review by laurenjodi
And Then She Fell by Stephanie Laurens

4.0

And Then She Fell
4 Stars

Series note: This is book #1 in the Cynster Sister Duo not to be confused with the Cynster Sister Trilogy. The trilogy focuses on Gabriel and Lucifer's sister while the duology is about Amanda and Amelia's sisters. Both the trilogy and the duology are connected through the pendant gifted by The Lady in book #3 of the original Cynsters series. Yes, it really is a bit convoluted, but carry on regardless!

Henrietta Cynster is known throughout the ton as the "matchbreaker" for her ability to ferret out the fortune-hunters and other less-than-agreeable suitors courting the young women of society. When she ruins James Glossup's chances, he is furious as he needs to marry to gain his inheritance. After learning about the conditions of his grandaunt's will, Henrietta agrees to help James find a suitable bride, but the two soon realize they are the perfect match for each other. The only problem is the pesky attempts on Henrietta's life.

Laurens has once again hit the mark in a series that is more miss than hit overall.
Henrietta and James's romance is engaging (putting aside the purple prose sex scenes), and the mystery is suspenseful.

Henrietta and James have an intense attraction and their friends-to-lovers romance is very entertaining. There is also, thankfully, no keeping secrets trope as she is aware of his need to marry at the outset.

The suspense plot revolving around the reason for the various attempts on Henrietta's life ratchets up the tension. The explanation for the crimes is logical, and the climax and resolution are excellent. The fact that it is
SpoilerHenrietta and the other women in the family who rescue James
is an added bonus.

While it is clear that Laurens' never met an adjective or adverb that she didn't like, it is possible to look past her often repetitive writing and enjoy her stories. This is a prime example. Looking forward to Mary and Ryder's book next - the teaser in the epilogue is promising.