This is only my second read of the two intrepid female detectives Penny and Emma. Set in 1899, the job itself undertaken by them is both bold and dangerous. Women are not found in the profession and they have to face derision, incredulity and mockery apart from downright obstacles deliberately done to get the job done. But they do it, where their male counterparts fail.
The murder of a young labourer whose death does not create any waves for the police is brought for investigation to the two ladies. A seemingly quiet man, digging for background and clues unveils a plot of thuggery, corruption at the highest levels and a series of cover ups starting from the Police itself, going up to the aristocracy where the real power in Britain lies. The section of society that believes they are invincible and have no hesitation in showing it.
Detection is slow but steady and both women are courageous in the face of many obstacles. Justice is found for Archie at the end.
The story apart from its detective genre, brings to light the plight of women in this era highlighting the misuse of power by the privileged class, and the manner in which the poor and simple are kept downtrodden. The position of women was not much better either and there was a long way to go.
Excellent reading by an author I’d love to get more of!
Thanks to Storm Publishing for sending me this book, for an unbiased review, courtesy of Netgalley.
Bangkok, Thailand. My amazement at the intricate carvings knows no bounds.
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