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I received Lady Odelia’s Secret by Jane Steen from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the Scott-De Quincy Mysteries, Lady Helena Investigates, a few years ago and had been checking in semi-regularly to see if a sequel had been released. So naturally I was delighted when Jane contacted me to ask if I would like to review Lady Odelia’s Secret.

And, no spoilers, but what a secret it is too! I was gripped from the moment it was outed and then things just kept getting better and better … for me as a reader, not for the characters. Which, let’s face it, is what we want from a good mystery novel.

The romance aspect of the novel is never overbearing but it did leave me on the edge of my seat almost as much as the mystery. 

The character development in Lady Odelia’s Secret is marvellous. Literally every main character shows impressive growth. Even some of the side characters became, if not more likeable, at least more relatable. 

I would suggest readers of Lady Odelia’s Secret visit Lady Helena Investigates first, as no time is wasted on detailed reintroductions for many of the characters. Which was fine as overly detailed reintroductions bore me, particularly in longer series.

With a gripping plot, engaging characters and piping hot tea — both literally and figuratively — Lady Odelia’s Secret is an absolutely charming novel and a must for fans of classic mysteries. 

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