A review by outsmartyourshelf
The Red Monarch by Bella Ellis

dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Lydia, the daughter of Branwell's married ex-lover, eloped with a young actor, Harry Roxby, & they have been living in dire straits in London ever since. Harry is now being held for ransom by the leader of a notorious criminal gang & his safe return depends upon Lydia finding a missing jewel. Lydia contacts the Bronte sisters & begs for their help & the three sisters plus Branwell head for London.

The third book in this series is slightly darker in tone involving the kidnapping of young girls for nefarious purposes. Again, the incorporation of people such as Victorian authors Charles Dickens & Catherine Crowe lends itself well to the story. There was also the author's take on what could possibly have sparked the beginning of Wuthering Heights in the imagination of Emily Bronte. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the first two books so I have rated it 4 stars. I recommend this series for any historical mystery fans.

My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Hodder & Stoughton, for the opportunity to read an ARC. I am voluntarily giving an honest review. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings