Unexceptional mystery. More of a classic 70s gothic (governess, nightgowns, brooding rich men, glimpses of women in capes, etc.) than a whodunnit, and no hint whatsoever that this was part of a mystery series, Inspector Coffin himself is vestigial at best.

Enjoyable enough, but never thrilled, never deepened, never blossomed. Inert.

Would try another of hers, as the writing is good, the plot and characters just didn't take off in a particularly memorable way.

(Note: 5 stars = amazing, wonderful, 4 = very good book, 3 = decent read, 2 = disappointing, 1 = awful, just awful. I'm fairly good at picking for myself so end up with a lot of 4s). ( )

Somewhat improbable Victorian heroine foils a drug-smuggling ring. ( )