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Saturday, April 16, 2016

Murder at the Brightwell

I quite enjoyed Ashley Weaver's debut mystery Murder at the Brightwell (#559).  From its stylish 1930s style cover to the promise of future books in this series following Amory and Milo Ames, it delivered what was promised: a diverting read.

Amory and Milo Amory have been living mainly separate lives for most of their five year marriage.  Milo is usually to be found in the Society Pages with a bevy of beauties while Amory spends her time at their country home.  When Gil Trent, the fiancé she jilted for Milo, comes to ask Amory to do him a favor by accompanying him to a party of friends gathering at the seaside hotel The Brightwell to try to dissuade his younger sister from marrying a bounder, Amory is glad to help.  She knows what it's like to marry a handsome rogue and live with the consequences.  When said bounder is found dead on a cliff side terrace at the hotel, clues soon point to Gil as the murder suspect.  When Milo unexpectedly shows up, too, Amory wonders if she's gotten herself in over her head...

The cover blurbs compare the Ameses to Nick and Nora Charles.  Personally, I think the 1930s and their stylish wardrobes are the only things these two couples have in common.  When I think of the Charleses, wit, humor and banter come to mind.  You never doubt the devotion this couple has for each other, though.  With the Ames, it's very different.  Divorce is mentioned here a few times, but the question is: Will they or won't they?  Or will pride stand in their way?  I hope to find out in future adventures of this polished couple.

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