A Nefarious Engagement

I mostly skim read this installment because the writing is good but weirdly dense when it comes to putting together the puzzle pieces of the mystery. There's so much unnecessary information provided that the words start to bleed together.

However, I thought the mystery itself and the development of the engagement and relationship between the protagonist and love interest was very strong and an enjoyable read.

I didn't expect there to be so little of Kesgrave in the book following their engagement. Even Lady Abercrombie and Nuneaton's brief presences didn't make up for it. Bea moves through the investigation in such a solitary way that  it seemed to be more about the character needing to unravel her story alone than her needing to realize her desire for Kesgrave's companionship and trust. It wasn't until Kesgrave rejoins the story that the energy returned.