Eight stars
Continuing this time travelling series by Kelley Armstrong, I found myself with a novella that bridges the second and third books. Mallory Atkinson is still stuck in 1869, but has started to become more used to her surroundings, When she follows one of the housemaids one night, she finds herself in a spot of trouble, which could significantly hamper her ability to help solve cases, or stay alive to see her return to the 21st century. Armstrong does well with this shorter piece, still captivating the reader with all she has to offer.
Mallory Atkinson has come to accept her being trapped inside the body of a Victorian housemaid, as well as all the obstacles that brings along with it. Mallory’s current situation has her trying to befriend her fellow maid, young Alice, though there are times this proves difficult. As Alice is only twelve, they do not share a great deal in common, though the young pickpocket has a rough exterior. When Alice receives a startling letter and sneaks out one night, Mallory follows her to see what’s going on. It is only when they arrive at a party that Mallory—who presents as a buxom nineteen-year-old—catches the eye of many while she tries to keep an eye on young Alice.
When Mallory’s boss and crime fighting partner, Dr. Duncan Gray, arrives to investigate the situation, things take a turn. Alice is captured by some of the men at this gathering, adding tension to an already mysterious night. Mallory finds herself attacked as she tries to help, forcing Gray to use his skills and police connections in order to free his two maids. All the while, a new scientific experiment might prove to be the helpful part of the evening, as no one loves anything more than some explosives. A great piece that has all the impact of a full-length Armstrong novel.
This series remains as addictive as some of the other Kelley Armstrong novels I’ve read. There is something about her writing that has me wanting to know more in short order. The narrative flows well, with little time to meander, and the characters help complement the strong storytelling. Armstrong is able to use her keen knowledge of Victorian Scotland to paint a picture and does so with ease, while also contrasting things with 21st century Canada. There is nothing like a good mystery to round things out and I am eager to tackle the next novel to see how Mallory and the others will make things work.
Plot points are key to the novella’s success, which Kelley Armstrong has mastered up to this point. The twists and turns of the story help create a wonderful reading experience, which I am always eager to discover. I love that I cannot predict what is coming and how it will fit into the larger story. After this shorter read, it is time to get back to the longer and more complex pieces, which will surely add depth to an already great series,.
Kudos, Madam Armstrong, for a strong novella that brings things nicely.
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