Sword and Song

September 27, 2010
The murder of an 18-year-old prostitute by a shadowy patron who has asked her to safeguard a mysterious book kick-starts Southey's lively fourth 18th-century mystery featuring Newcastle-upon-Tyne musician Charles Patterson (after 2009's Secret Lament). Soon after beginning to investigate, Charles, who has a knack for unraveling crimes, is off to work at a country house party, where he's surprised to find the rightful heir to the now missing book among the guests. Others in residence include an affable but deceptive host, a snobbish hostess, and Esther Jerdoun, the wealthy older woman Charles can neither afford to marry nor bear to be without. Violent attacks, a second death, and sundry encounters with spirits ensue. While the book's minor paranormal element feels jarring at times, Southey impeccably evokes the period, and the latest twist in Charles's unlikely romance will leave readers eager for the next installment.