In Byrd Nash's Delicious Death, the second installment of the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries, Ghost Talker Elinor Chalamet's holiday takes a deadly turn. When a poisoner targets the king, Elinor finds herself competing with the arrogant Duke de Archambeau to solve the crime. Juggling a society lady's reputation, a ghostly case, and a demanding séance, Elinor battles not only the murderer but also the overbearing advice of Tristan's family. This fast-paced gaslamp fantasy novella blends thrilling mystery with a touch of romance, showcasing Elinor's sharp wit and supernatural abilities as she navigates Parisian high society and the spectral realm. Perfect for fans of paranormal mysteries and strong female leads, Delicious Death is a captivating and deliciously spooky read.
Review Delicious Death
Oh my goodness, Delicious Death was a delightful romp! As a huge fan of the first book in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series, I was practically bouncing with anticipation for Elinor's next adventure, and Byrd Nash did not disappoint. This second installment cleverly builds upon the foundation laid in the first, giving us more depth to Elinor’s character while keeping the fast-paced, engaging mystery at the forefront. We see her embracing her skills as a medium with more confidence, even a touch of playful embellishment (learned from the ever-charming Madame Nyght, no doubt!), which adds a fun layer to her personality.
The setting itself is wonderfully evocative – a slightly derelict lord's estate teeming with intriguing guests, competing chefs whipping up culinary masterpieces, and of course, a healthy dose of ghostly intrigue. I loved the contrast between the lavish backdrop of the noble classes and Elinor's more humble background. The author expertly paints a picture of the social dynamics, with young women employing fainting spells for attention, and fortunes being cleverly (or not so cleverly) pursued. It's all so deliciously dramatic!
The mystery itself is captivating. A plot to poison the King? Sign me up! The suspense builds nicely, keeping you guessing right until the very end. And while the investigation is gripping, the book also takes time to explore the relationships between the characters. We see more of Elinor's dynamic with Tristan, the Duke de Archambeau, whose constant, albeit sometimes irritating, presence adds a wonderful spark to the narrative. Their interactions are brimming with witty banter and undeniable chemistry – a slow burn romance that's perfectly paced and oh-so-satisfying. The supporting characters, particularly Charlotte, are equally well-developed and contribute significantly to the overall charm of the story. They feel real, with their flaws and strengths, and their interactions add a delightful dimension to the narrative.
Beyond the engaging plot and well-developed characters, I also appreciated the historical detail and the glimpses into the lives of people in that time period. The author clearly did her research, creating a world that feels both believable and fantastical, a perfect blend that enhances the overall reading experience. The inclusion of seances and ghostly encounters adds a layer of the supernatural that is never overwhelming, but instead perfectly complements the historical mystery elements.
Overall, Delicious Death is a fantastic read. It's witty, suspenseful, and incredibly charming. It’s the perfect blend of historical mystery, paranormal intrigue, and slow-burn romance. If you’re looking for a captivating story with strong female characters, a touch of the supernatural, and a dash of romance, then look no further. I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series! Five stars, absolutely!
Information
- Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.42 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 198
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Rook and Castle Press
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