In the Maharani's Pearls, we got to meet Bess and her parents in India. Bess is told by a fortuneteller that someone she cares for is in danger. I liked this because we got a story about Bess when she was younger and it gave an interesting glimpse into her childhood in India. ( )

The Maharani’s Pearls - Todd
3 stars

This is a bit of backstory for the Bess Crawford series. The setting is from Bess’s Indian childhood with the honorable and worthy British Raj. It establishes Bess as a precocious observer who doesn’t hesitate to place herself in danger to uphold the honor of the regiment. Like the longer books of the series, it presents a sanitized look at historical events. It’s a short story, less than 100 pages, and was a pleasant diversion that passed the time in a waiting room. ( )

This is a prequel to the Bess Crawford stories. Bess is a young girl with her parents in India and becomes involved in an attempted kidnapping. It is thwarted partly by her actions. Its an exciting short story and shows the rising rebellion within the British Raj. Good historical background reading too. ( )

Early days for Bess, as she demonstrates the curiosity, courage and resolution that will serve her well later in life. ( )

This little short story is an excellent addition to Charles Todd's Bess Crawford series. We get to see Bess as a curious, brave and smart little girl-- a ten-year-old miniature of the woman she will become-- and we can also appreciate the younger versions of her parents. Simon, once again, remains pretty well hidden in the shadows so I'm hoping that one day soon the spotlight will turn on him.

There's one thing that may strain many readers' credulity: at a moment of extreme danger, soldiers believe everything that Bess tells them and then allow her to put herself in the line of fire. I have to admit that this did strain my own suspension of disbelief a bit, but I handled it. These soldiers under the command of her father are well acquainted with Bess and would know that she's a level-headed, intelligent child. I can see them paying attention to what she has to say. As for them letting her put herself in danger... I really don't think they could've stopped her short of hog-tying her and locking her in a windowless shed. All readers of the Bess Crawford series know that she's unstoppable when she's doing something she passionately believes is right.

This short story is only available for digital download, and the length is given as 96 pages. Be warned. The story is only half that. The remainder is a preview of Charles Todd's upcoming book. I know these "digital shorts" aren't everyone's cup of tea-- especially if you don't have an eReader-- but I enjoy them. The ideas may not be long enough for a traditional novel, but they provide additional insight into characters that I've come to love. ( )