Lessons in Temptation
Charlie CochraneHistorical romance
Available from Samhain Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-60504-845-1
December 2009
| Their reputation for solving mysterious murders precedes the arrival of Jonty Stewart and Orlando Coppersmith in Bath. Though Orlando is there on university business with Jonty along to work on his book of sonnets, they soon find themselves commissioned to investigate a decades old murder at a local bath house. Jonty's involvement with a local production of Macbeth puts a strain on their relationship when the producer turns out to be a friend from his university days, Jimmy Harding. When Jimmy lets Orlando know how much he wants Jonty, Orlando worries that this investigation might well be their last one together.
The languid beginning of this book fits the peaceful months Jonty and Orlando have enjoyed and sets the stage for the tumultuous events that make up the rest of the story. Once both Jimmy and the murder are introduced into the story, the pace picks up and a sense of disquiet permeates the pages. Jimmy's presence threatens the happiness Jonty and Orlando have found together and they each find themselves facing new internal demons. This emotional upheaval will have readers turning the pages just as much if not more than the twists and turns of the murder investigation. Jonty and Orlando are fabulous characters who come to life on the pages of this story. Their quick-witted banter is present but it is interspersed with dark brooding and occasional self-recrimination. It is impossible not to empathize with the pain and confusion they each feel as events unfold. Jimmy is also a well written character, though not always a likable one. The characters really drive this story and their interactions and dialogue illuminate their personalities perfectly. Charlie Cochrane has crafted another wonderful tale. While it is not necessary to have read the previous books in this series, having done so will make reading this one that much more enjoyable.
Overall rating:
Reviewer: Karin |
