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Book Review of The Right Sort of Man (Sparks & Bainbridge, Bk 1)

The Right Sort of Man (Sparks & Bainbridge, Bk 1)
cathyskye avatar reviewed on + 2307 more book reviews


The Right Sort of Man is a winner that I enjoyed from first page to last. I can see fans of Susan Elia MacNeal and Jacqueline Winspear falling for it, too. The period detail adds so much depth to the story. Trying to navigate through the streets of London with its bombed-out buildings, years of "make do and mend," ration coupons... Montclair draws you into this world with ease. The mystery is a strong one, too. The author kept me guessing, and a large piece of the puzzle involves the life of the dead woman, Tillie La Salle.

But the strongest part of the book is the team of Iris and Gwen. Gwen has led a rather sheltered life, and the death of her husband devastated her. As a result, her dragon of a mother-in-law usurped all the power in their relationship. But Gwen is not a timid little mouse. Now she is stronger and willing to do what it takes to regain control of her own life and the life of her little boy. On the other hand, Iris is quick, brave, and smart-- and since a lot of her recent past is gagged by the Official Secrets Act, you don't know for sure just what she's capable of or what she's going to do. They make a formidable pair, and the banter between them is a delight. (It reminds me a bit of Lady Hardcastle and her maid Florence in T.E. Kinsey's historical series.)

Strong mystery, excellent setting, and two marvelous characters-- bring on Iris and Gwen's next adventure!