Armchair traveler Charles Lenox is everything a Victoria gentleman should be. He is kind to his servants, courtly to his beloved childhood friend and neighbor Lady Jane, a loving uncle and brother, and an excellent detective. This is the first in this great series and it will leave you clamoring for more. In our current election turmoil, you will be especially amused by the workings of the British government and charmed by the manners and customs of the 1860's.
Lady Jane's former maid has taken a new position, in the home of the man who runs the mint, to be closer to her fiance. When she is found dead in her room it is assumed to be suicide. Typical of the class divisions of the time, no one above stairs is particularly concerned about the possibility of a crime being committed, especially since an apparent suicide note was found. Sir Charles, who is visiting the home, thinks differently, and he and his doctor friend decide to investigate.
One of the things I enjoyed most about A Beautiful Blue Death was the process of investigation, especially against the backdrop of political and family intrigue. Sir Charles is methodical and intelligent, yet 100% a man of his time in terms of social convention. If you've ever watched Downton Abbey or Gosford Park, you'll recognize the generally callous attitude toward the lives of servants and it's a credit to Sir Charles that he cares enough to find out why the young woman died. His methods are thorough and his intuition is excellent. I would highly recommend this series! My mother, who is 91 years old, LOVES it!
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