Beamis12

This is the third installment in this series by the creator of The Ruth Galloway series, which I love. The more I read of this series, the more I am liking this one too. Taking place in post war Britain, a short time before the coronation of Elizabeth, DI Stephens and Memphisto set out to solve another mystery. This time it concerns someone highly respected and close to them to n the past.

The atmosphere of the times is vividly rendered, the ending of variety shows at theaters, and the introduction of these shows being televised, where Memphisto along with Ruby take part. Ruby excited, Memphisto, hesitant. Anarchists abound, and trouble is everywhere. The Romany and fortune telling also play a part. Di Stephens will for the first time travel to America to track down a lead in the person of Wild Bill Hitchcock. Will they be able to stop whatever is planned before the coronation?

I love these characters, they are so varied and likable. Enjoy the blend of history with a non gory mystery. Enjoyed the afterward where the author explains what places were real and what was not. Found it fascinating that she wrote her first story at she eleven, and her lead character was Edgar Stephan's. Perseverance pays off.

ARC from Edelweiss.