A beautifully written historic novel. The author pulls the reader into a novel of intrigue with believable characters and a tale that holds you to the end. ( )

I really enjoyed this story, musty old library archives hold a certain appeal. Even more mysterious is what happened to the author, who seems to have disappeared.
Last blog entry on archive.org
https://web.archive.org/web/20150918205042/http://www.christi-phillips.com/lesse...

Can't wait to read the first one - The Rossetti Letters. I should have read them in order, but oh well. Still very good. I just love these books told in two time periods. Plus this was historical fiction so I feel like I'm getting a bit smarter while doing something I love - reading:) ( )

I love historical fiction and this was a great read. Alternating between London 1672 and modern day Cambridge, parallel murders have taken place and it is up to the women in the book to discover the killers. The book is filled with mystery, suspense, romance and intrigue which keeps the reader totally engaged. The two female protagonists, Hannah and Claire, are both strong, intelligent, independent women struggling in male dominated professions. However, I far prefer the story of Hannah Devlin, physician to the King's mistress. Her story is more detailed and interesting, whilst Claire seems almost a secondary character. My only criticism would be that when the murderers were finally revealed in both eras it wasn't really exciting enough which spoiled the book a bit. However, I am still keen to read another book by Phillips. ( )

Christi Phillips is adept at writing; her first novel, "The Rossetti Letter" was exceptional and it's sequel is a great follow up. She combines two stories, one for the past and one from present day into one in a page turning fashion that keeps readers wondering what will happen. The main character, Claire, is so likeable you can't help but want her to succeed at solving the mystery. A must read for fans of history who like a twist with a bit of mystery. ( )