The Hummingbird Dagger
From the author of Suitors and Sabotage comes a suspenseful and enthralling new Regency novel, perfect for readers who like their Jane Austen classics with a side of mystery and murder. 1833. A near-fatal carriage accident has deposited an unconscious young woman on the doorstep of Hardwick Manor and into the care of young Lord James Ellerby. But when she finally awakens, it is with no memory of who she is or where she came from. Beth, as she calls herself, has no identity; the only clue to her circumstances is a recurring nightmare of a hummingbird, blood dripping from its steel beak. With the help of James and his sister, Caroline, Beth tries to solve the mystery of her own identity and the appalling events that brought her to their door. But nothing could prepare her for the escalating dangers that threaten her and the Ellerby clan. From the hazardous cliffs of Dorset to the hostile streets of London, Beth will fight to reclaim her past, hunted by a secretive foe with murderous intentions. Fans of Cindy Anstey's previous novels won't want to miss The Hummingbird Dagger, a dark and twisty new offering that blends romance, danger and mystery. Praise for The Hummingbird Dagger: "A blend of Jane Austen, Jack the Ripper, and your favorite cozy mystery. ... The romance was lovely, sweet and a perfect subplot to the darker tones of murder, mystery and mayhem." —Isabel Ibañez, author of Woven in Moonlight "Quite fun. ... There is a softness when it comes to Cindy Antsey’s historical novels ... it calms me somewhat while still letting me enjoy the twists and turns." —Whatever You Can Still Betray
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This was a FANTASTIC Work of historical fiction!!!!!! I absolutely ADORED all the main characters, Especially “Beth”!!!!! While I did see quite a few things coming, several things were Very unexpected!!! Overall I thought was writing was Very well done, especially how the growing romance was written!!!!!! The YEARNING!!!!! That's what really makes a Good romance, especially in Historical fiction!!!!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
2.5 stars
After two books by this author I think I've come to the conclusion that the writing style just isn't for me. For some reason, I just don't click with the characters and I find myself zoning out when trying to read.
Perhaps some of my problem is that with the cover (which is amazing btw) and the synopsis, I really thought this would be a more intense read. The synopsis says “Beth slowly begins to unravel the mystery behind her identity and the sinister circumstances that brought her to their door. But the dangerous secrets they discover in doing so could have deadly ramifications reaching the highest tiers of London society,” which brings to mind more danger and thrilling situations. Mostly, the feel of it is more mystery than thriller, and even then I thought it just needed a bit more.... something to hit the mystery mark for me. BUT, for a younger audience (the intended target), it might be the right amount.
I will admit, the mystery is what kept me reading. While I wasn't in love with this book, I still felt the need to know how it would end. What happened? Why? How? Which I think the book did answer nicely.
Unfortunately, there isn't a strong romance to really back it up either. While there is a blossoming romance in the background, there isn't much build up. True, we do read about their feelings growing from nothing to much more, but I never understood why.
In that regard though, the female friendship is fantastic. They are there for each other and not once do they talk about romance, which is quite refreshing.
Will I recommend this? Yes. This is one I'd recommend to people looking for a clean read and possibly younger readers with a high reading level. I don't think I'll read more by this author, but I do see the audience for these books is there.
