Library Journal
★ 11/15/2015
Grace Moore is pleased to receive a proposal of marriage from a dashing suitor, but realizes soon after the wedding that he is far more interested in her money than in marriage, and that he may be concealing even darker secrets. After being whisked off to an isolated and rundown manor, Grace spends her lonely days trying to unravel an increasingly complex web of treacherous intentions. Adding to Grace's misfortunes, the seemingly friendly cook is actually a desperate escaped convict with malicious plans of her own. As in Bailey's first novel, An Appetite for Violets, authentic period recipes add to the novel's strong sense of time and place. VERDICT Set in early 19th-century England, this sophomore effort is certain to be well received by those who love Gothic tales of naïve young women, shadowy spouses, and houses brimming with secrets. Bailey skillfully reveals just enough to heighten the suspense while also throwing in plenty of surprising turns along the way. With this entertaining and engrossing tale, Bailey proves herself to be an author to watch. [Library marketing.]—Mara Bandy, Champaign P.L., IL