In this engaging series starter, originally published in 2005, Emily chafes against the restrictions women faced in the Victorian era. She marries Viscount Ashton primarily to escape her mother but is widowed within months. More than anything, Emily is relieved, and she enjoys her newfound freedom. But as she reads her late husband's writings and gets to know his friends, she realizes how much he loved her. She soon finds herself truly mourning him and the marriage they could have had. But there is a cloud hanging over her husband's memory. Could he have been dealing in stolen antiquities? And, even more disturbing, is it possible he is still alive? Kate Reading captures Lady Emily's upper-crust tones beautifully. VERDICT Filled with interesting characters and period detail, this work delivers an exciting, suspenseful plot that keeps the listener guessing.—Judy Murray, Monroe Cty. Lib. Syst., MI