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Lady of Ashes #1
Lady of Ashes
In 1861 London, Violet Morgan is struggling to establish a good reputation for the undertaking business that her husband has largely abandoned. She provides comfort for the grieving, advises them on funeral fashion and etiquette, and arranges funerals.
Unbeknownst to his wife, Graham, who has nursed a hatred of America since his grandfather soldiered for Great Britain in the War of 1812, becomes involved in a scheme to sell arms to the South. Meanwhile, Violet receives the commission of a lifetime: undertaking the funeral for a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. But her position remains precarious, especially when Graham disappears and she begins investigating a series of deaths among the poor. And the closer she gets to the truth, the greater the danger for them both…
Unbeknownst to his wife, Graham, who has nursed a hatred of America since his grandfather soldiered for Great Britain in the War of 1812, becomes involved in a scheme to sell arms to the South. Meanwhile, Violet receives the commission of a lifetime: undertaking the funeral for a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. But her position remains precarious, especially when Graham disappears and she begins investigating a series of deaths among the poor. And the closer she gets to the truth, the greater the danger for them both…
404 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
561 people are currently reading
7374 people want to read
About the author
Christine Trent
19 books331 followersChristine Trent is the author of the Heart of St. Mary's County series set in her beloved Maryland hometown. Book 3, THE CEDAR POINT AFFAIR, releases in July 2025 and Book 4, THE MADNESS OF MOLL DYER, will release in February 2026.
She is also the author of the ROYAL TRADES series about women in unusual professions, including THE QUEEN'S DOLLMAKER (a dollmaker to Marie Antoinette), A ROYAL LIKENESS (an apprentice to the great waxworker, Madame Tussaud), and BY THE KING'S DESIGN (a cloth merchant to the Prince Regent). These books were re-released in 2023.
Christine is best known for her LADY OF ASHES series featuring Violet Harper, a Victorian undertaker with a passion for her macabre work. Christine's latest entry in this historical mystery series is THE DEADLY HOURS, an anthology written with Susanna Kearsley, C.S. Harris, and Anna Lee Huber, which follows the travels of a cursed pocket watch through time.
Can't get enough historical mystery? Christine has also written two novels (NO CURE FOR THE DEAD and A MURDEROUS MALADY) featuring Florence Nightingale as an intrepid sleuth.
Learn more about Christine at www.christinetrent.com.
She is also the author of the ROYAL TRADES series about women in unusual professions, including THE QUEEN'S DOLLMAKER (a dollmaker to Marie Antoinette), A ROYAL LIKENESS (an apprentice to the great waxworker, Madame Tussaud), and BY THE KING'S DESIGN (a cloth merchant to the Prince Regent). These books were re-released in 2023.
Christine is best known for her LADY OF ASHES series featuring Violet Harper, a Victorian undertaker with a passion for her macabre work. Christine's latest entry in this historical mystery series is THE DEADLY HOURS, an anthology written with Susanna Kearsley, C.S. Harris, and Anna Lee Huber, which follows the travels of a cursed pocket watch through time.
Can't get enough historical mystery? Christine has also written two novels (NO CURE FOR THE DEAD and A MURDEROUS MALADY) featuring Florence Nightingale as an intrepid sleuth.
Learn more about Christine at www.christinetrent.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 594 reviews
March 27, 2013
This book couldn't decide if it wanted to tell the story of a female undertaker in Victorian London crossing paths with London's first female serial killer, or if it was a tale of the American Civil War and how London was affected. It had far too many characters, most of which were never developed. This is a case of a historical fiction author who wanted to cram too many actual historical people and events into her tale, to the detriment of story and pacing. The book would have been better off with nearly all of the Civil War storyline cut, to focus more on Violet and her family. She is by far the most interesting, and quite unusual among fictional characters with her career. (Also, I just couldn't get over Queen Victoria's usage of the "Royal We" in every conversation she had. I'm pretty sure that was more for formal interactions, and not when you were having a conversation with someone. I could be wrong, of course, but those conversations were just distracting and odd because of it.)
October 8, 2014
This book suffered from a crisis of identity. It did not know what it wanted to be: a mid 19th Century London period piece centered on (but not completely about) a female undertaker, a murder mystery, a romance, an examination of the effects the US Civil War had on England, or commentary on British society/the monarchy.
The main character, Violet, was likable enough: loyal friend, loving, empathetic mother figure to an orphan, very skilled in undertaking, loyal to her (rather undeserving) husband. All qualities I would find admirable in a friend or acquaintance but left me somewhat flat in terms of a character I could get invested in. I think she was somewhat constrained by the story she was in. Because it never really centered on one strong plot line or theme I could only get a surface feel for her as a character. If the book had been just a murder mystery I could have seen more of her deductive or investigative side. If the book was just a romance I could have seen her more sentimental or vulnerable side. Because the book was such a mishmash I only got fleeting views of her many facets.
I did like the all the details the author provided about funerary practices and customs. The sort of funerals people had, their manner of dress and attire (black, shockingly enough), how they should behave during the morning period (hint: NOT like Queen Victoria). Trent do a nice job building up British society and culture in this book (or at least the middle class portion of it). I also appreciated that Trent called herself out on the history she adapted for the story. After the book finished she detailed the actual events that were alluded to during this period, explaining what, if anything, she changed. I can respect that and applaud her for being forthcoming with this.
What really pushed me over the edge from a three star review down to a two star was how the murder mystery plot line was integrated into the story. Spoilers after this point:
So throughout the first 65% of the book we are treated with occasional diary entries from a mysterious killer. This killer clearly thinks highly of themselves and their ability to remain undetected.
In fact the voice in these diary entries takes pride in no one every uncovering their foul deeds. But because Violet has noticed some weird splotches on two bodies entrusted to her this mysterious murder decides to take an interest in her. The murderer kidnaps Violet's adopted child (Susana, who it turns out had a tenuous connection to the murderer) and taunts Violet over the course of a few weeks through mysterious letters.
Eventually Violet figures out that the murderer plans to feed her adoptive Susanna to the lions. She rushes to the zoo, is confronted IN BROAD DAYLIGHT by the murderer who proceeds to monologue their criminal history and motivation to Violet before the proverbial calvary arrive and save the day. So effectively this is how it went:
Murderer: Man, I am so awesome at not being noticed but still able to literally get away with murder.
Violet: Wow, these are some strange blotches on these two dead bodies (out of dozens) that I have dealt with. That sure is weird. Maybe if I wasn't so busy running a successful business, helping the royal family with funeral arrangements, raising a daughter, being social with friends, and possibly sort of kind of flirting with this dashing American I could investigate further.
Murderer: Gasp! Someone has noticed my the tell tale by product of my otherwise undetectable killing method (unless an autopsy in performed). Instead of just leaving for another city to continue my nefarious deeds I will instead concoct an elaborate plan to torment and then gruesomely kill this undertaker by relying on lions. also, since I know my plan is flawless I will tell her everything.
Deus Ex Machina: Not so fast fiend, this is supposed to be a series. Violet can't die.
Murderer: Curses! Now I am foiled and will surely hang. If only I had just disappeared to another city where there would be no suspicion of me at all. I could have lived to kill another day.
End Scene
So between the meandering, muddled story, the not too terribly deep characters, the random asides to other characters that bore no relation to the plot (looking at you Abraham Lincoln), the pitifully weak murder mystery (though mystery is being quite kind to it, the murderer let the entire family Filidae out of the bag), and the rather boring romance this book just didn't do it for me.
The main character, Violet, was likable enough: loyal friend, loving, empathetic mother figure to an orphan, very skilled in undertaking, loyal to her (rather undeserving) husband. All qualities I would find admirable in a friend or acquaintance but left me somewhat flat in terms of a character I could get invested in. I think she was somewhat constrained by the story she was in. Because it never really centered on one strong plot line or theme I could only get a surface feel for her as a character. If the book had been just a murder mystery I could have seen more of her deductive or investigative side. If the book was just a romance I could have seen her more sentimental or vulnerable side. Because the book was such a mishmash I only got fleeting views of her many facets.
I did like the all the details the author provided about funerary practices and customs. The sort of funerals people had, their manner of dress and attire (black, shockingly enough), how they should behave during the morning period (hint: NOT like Queen Victoria). Trent do a nice job building up British society and culture in this book (or at least the middle class portion of it). I also appreciated that Trent called herself out on the history she adapted for the story. After the book finished she detailed the actual events that were alluded to during this period, explaining what, if anything, she changed. I can respect that and applaud her for being forthcoming with this.
What really pushed me over the edge from a three star review down to a two star was how the murder mystery plot line was integrated into the story. Spoilers after this point:
So throughout the first 65% of the book we are treated with occasional diary entries from a mysterious killer. This killer clearly thinks highly of themselves and their ability to remain undetected.
In fact the voice in these diary entries takes pride in no one every uncovering their foul deeds. But because Violet has noticed some weird splotches on two bodies entrusted to her this mysterious murder decides to take an interest in her. The murderer kidnaps Violet's adopted child (Susana, who it turns out had a tenuous connection to the murderer) and taunts Violet over the course of a few weeks through mysterious letters.
Eventually Violet figures out that the murderer plans to feed her adoptive Susanna to the lions. She rushes to the zoo, is confronted IN BROAD DAYLIGHT by the murderer who proceeds to monologue their criminal history and motivation to Violet before the proverbial calvary arrive and save the day. So effectively this is how it went:
Murderer: Man, I am so awesome at not being noticed but still able to literally get away with murder.
Violet: Wow, these are some strange blotches on these two dead bodies (out of dozens) that I have dealt with. That sure is weird. Maybe if I wasn't so busy running a successful business, helping the royal family with funeral arrangements, raising a daughter, being social with friends, and possibly sort of kind of flirting with this dashing American I could investigate further.
Murderer: Gasp! Someone has noticed my the tell tale by product of my otherwise undetectable killing method (unless an autopsy in performed). Instead of just leaving for another city to continue my nefarious deeds I will instead concoct an elaborate plan to torment and then gruesomely kill this undertaker by relying on lions. also, since I know my plan is flawless I will tell her everything.
Deus Ex Machina: Not so fast fiend, this is supposed to be a series. Violet can't die.
Murderer: Curses! Now I am foiled and will surely hang. If only I had just disappeared to another city where there would be no suspicion of me at all. I could have lived to kill another day.
End Scene
So between the meandering, muddled story, the not too terribly deep characters, the random asides to other characters that bore no relation to the plot (looking at you Abraham Lincoln), the pitifully weak murder mystery (though mystery is being quite kind to it, the murderer let the entire family Filidae out of the bag), and the rather boring romance this book just didn't do it for me.
May 28, 2020
1.5 - 2 stars.
I think authors with 5 or 6 plot ideas should write 5 or 6 different novels. This book couldn't decide what it was or where it was going. In addition, some dialogs are just unbelievable. I won't keep going with the series.
(Lost my original review and had to rewrite it. Not sure how it happened.)
I think authors with 5 or 6 plot ideas should write 5 or 6 different novels. This book couldn't decide what it was or where it was going. In addition, some dialogs are just unbelievable. I won't keep going with the series.
(Lost my original review and had to rewrite it. Not sure how it happened.)
May 12, 2015
Where I got the book: borrowed on Overdrive. ***SPOILER WARNING***
I’m a sucker for the whole Victorian-obsession-with-death thing and can personally think of a dozen plots that might revolve around the delightfully lugubrious profession of undertaker, so I picked up Trent’s novel with anticipation. Only to be left feeling slightly confused, and a little flat. There were simply too many story elements in here for one novel, which would have been pretty interesting if Trent had stuck to the opening premise of an unevenly ambitious married pair of undertakers who are at odds over whether Violet should be pursuing her profession or staying at home and having babies. This, combined with the absorbing details of Victorian death rituals, was capable of providing plenty of entertainment, but instead (or as well) we got a train crash, an orphaned child, Queen Victoria, the American Civil War, mysterious poisonings AND the Regent’s Park Zoo. It was as if the author had done tons and tons of research and couldn’t bear to leave any of it out—research there undoubtedly was, frequently weighing down the story with small piles of unnecessary detail, left lying around for the reader to trip over. And all those tantalizing little plot line starts that went nowhere—Susanna’s muteness, the smell in the basement, all kinds of little moments where I thought “Aha! this’ll lead somewhere interesting” only to find it didn’t—well, do that enough times and the reader stops trusting you.
I felt that at many moments the narrative went way too fast, especially toward the end, where there was an awful lot of telling rather than showing. Both dialogue and narrative were sometimes stilted and unnatural, although there were moments (and this is why I’m giving three stars) when I caught glimpses of what could be a wry, understated humor that accorded well with the subject-matter.
And what’s up with Colorado? If the story had anything going for it, it was the London setting and the (slightly preposterous) link with Queen Victoria.
I know this is the first in a series, but I’m not sure I have the patience to read more. This is a two-star read for me, lifted to three stars by occasional flashes of humor and the overall imaginative plotting. If only it hadn’t all been shoehorned into one novel . . . .
I’m a sucker for the whole Victorian-obsession-with-death thing and can personally think of a dozen plots that might revolve around the delightfully lugubrious profession of undertaker, so I picked up Trent’s novel with anticipation. Only to be left feeling slightly confused, and a little flat. There were simply too many story elements in here for one novel, which would have been pretty interesting if Trent had stuck to the opening premise of an unevenly ambitious married pair of undertakers who are at odds over whether Violet should be pursuing her profession or staying at home and having babies. This, combined with the absorbing details of Victorian death rituals, was capable of providing plenty of entertainment, but instead (or as well) we got a train crash, an orphaned child, Queen Victoria, the American Civil War, mysterious poisonings AND the Regent’s Park Zoo. It was as if the author had done tons and tons of research and couldn’t bear to leave any of it out—research there undoubtedly was, frequently weighing down the story with small piles of unnecessary detail, left lying around for the reader to trip over. And all those tantalizing little plot line starts that went nowhere—Susanna’s muteness, the smell in the basement, all kinds of little moments where I thought “Aha! this’ll lead somewhere interesting” only to find it didn’t—well, do that enough times and the reader stops trusting you.
I felt that at many moments the narrative went way too fast, especially toward the end, where there was an awful lot of telling rather than showing. Both dialogue and narrative were sometimes stilted and unnatural, although there were moments (and this is why I’m giving three stars) when I caught glimpses of what could be a wry, understated humor that accorded well with the subject-matter.
And what’s up with Colorado? If the story had anything going for it, it was the London setting and the (slightly preposterous) link with Queen Victoria.
I know this is the first in a series, but I’m not sure I have the patience to read more. This is a two-star read for me, lifted to three stars by occasional flashes of humor and the overall imaginative plotting. If only it hadn’t all been shoehorned into one novel . . . .
March 18, 2013
The nicest thing I can think to say about this book: the author obviously did a lot of research. Unfortunately, she was not skilled at making interesting characters, a plot with coherence, or any actual tension. Her main character is tedious and the supporting characters are cardboard cut-outs. If she wanted to write a non-fiction book about funeral habits of the Victorians, she ought to have done so.
There is far too much telling and not enough showing in this book. There wasn't enough believable dialog. It was full of clumsy attempts to portray actual historical figures. (The Queen Victoria sections alone were cringe worthy.)
Mark this one down as "disappointing".
There is far too much telling and not enough showing in this book. There wasn't enough believable dialog. It was full of clumsy attempts to portray actual historical figures. (The Queen Victoria sections alone were cringe worthy.)
Mark this one down as "disappointing".
May 23, 2013
This book was a disaster. I was interested enough in the female undertaker to start reading, but that is not explored as much as it could be. Instead, the novel is full of incredibly unlikely coincidences and all the historical detail the author could manage to squeeze in. Trains were dangerous! Well, Violet is in one terrible accident. Zoos were different! Her mother in law is killed by animals in one. Queen Victoria was desolate when Albert died! A commoner female undertaker somehow becomes her confidant. England and the US don't get along! A lot of hard to follow plotlines going there, including quite a few stints seeing some younger Adams progeny at work. Because yes, she also includes historical figures unrelated to the protagonist. That's all before we start on the cryptic anonymous diary entries scattered throughout. A big pass for this, I barely read the last quarter.
May 5, 2013
I actually have Christine Trent's first novel, The Queen's Dollmaker, languishing somewhere in Mt. TBR, and I've added her others to my list over the years, and now I wish I hadn't waited so long to read her because I was very impressed with Lady of Ashes. It's a really well-written tale that combines a lot of my favorite historical fiction elements into a gripping read. I'm not going to say too much about the plot because I don't want to risk giving anything away, and it has a lot going on with plenty of intrigue and drama in the Morgans' personal and professional lives, set against the backdrop of an England in a bit of turmoil as the American Civil War rages on and begins to affect them and as the nation faces its greatest period of mourning.
The writing style is very descriptive, which makes for a denser read, and it took me awhile to get used to all the point of view switches, but it soon became apparent that a tight plot was falling into place, and the use of several historical figures' points of view really helped to bring the political and historical climate into focus. I haven't read much about what was going on elsewhere in the world during the American Civil War, and I thought it was fascinating to read about it from across the pond, from the outside looking in, getting a sense of how the English viewed the conflict and how careful England's leaders had to be as they walked a tightrope between the Union and the Confederacy. I really loved the way the story weaved a lot of different aspects of this period in history with both real and fictional characters. It was also a wonderful portrait of Victorian society at the time, especially their obsession with the dead and the myriad rules and customs for mourning.
I was really invested in Violet's character; she's a heroine who is strong and driven but is still realistically defined by the times she lives in. Though she is a pioneering woman, thriving as a female in a man's profession, she is doing so in a time when society frowns on working women, and she struggles to balance her career with maintaining a semblance of "wifely characteristics." I really felt for her, watching her marriage crumble while her business as an undertaker flourished, and then watching her attempt to survive the fallout from her husband's messes with graceful stoicism, all the while caring for the dead with compassion and reverence and professional integrity. And then, as if she didn't already have enough to deal with, she picks up on a pattern of suspicious deaths in the city and unwittingly places herself and those she loves in danger.
This was one of those novels that grabbed me and got under my skin, and I had to keep fighting myself from turning to the last page to see who was still around at the end! It's also one of those novels that takes a little time to set the stage and builds up to a slow burn until you suddenly realize you've gotten to a point where you can't put it down. My only real complaint is that the last hundred pages or so were a real roller coaster ride and I felt a bit yanked around, but all's well that ends well, and the ending, though brief, was very satisfying. I believe this book is the first in a planned series, and if so I'll be in line to read the next one. Lady of Ashes is a Victorian mystery that's a bit heavier on the history than others I've read, and that combination of historical events and people impacting the story, intrigue, danger, emotional drama, and of course, some romance, makes for a sharp, compelling, and exciting read.
The writing style is very descriptive, which makes for a denser read, and it took me awhile to get used to all the point of view switches, but it soon became apparent that a tight plot was falling into place, and the use of several historical figures' points of view really helped to bring the political and historical climate into focus. I haven't read much about what was going on elsewhere in the world during the American Civil War, and I thought it was fascinating to read about it from across the pond, from the outside looking in, getting a sense of how the English viewed the conflict and how careful England's leaders had to be as they walked a tightrope between the Union and the Confederacy. I really loved the way the story weaved a lot of different aspects of this period in history with both real and fictional characters. It was also a wonderful portrait of Victorian society at the time, especially their obsession with the dead and the myriad rules and customs for mourning.
I was really invested in Violet's character; she's a heroine who is strong and driven but is still realistically defined by the times she lives in. Though she is a pioneering woman, thriving as a female in a man's profession, she is doing so in a time when society frowns on working women, and she struggles to balance her career with maintaining a semblance of "wifely characteristics." I really felt for her, watching her marriage crumble while her business as an undertaker flourished, and then watching her attempt to survive the fallout from her husband's messes with graceful stoicism, all the while caring for the dead with compassion and reverence and professional integrity. And then, as if she didn't already have enough to deal with, she picks up on a pattern of suspicious deaths in the city and unwittingly places herself and those she loves in danger.
This was one of those novels that grabbed me and got under my skin, and I had to keep fighting myself from turning to the last page to see who was still around at the end! It's also one of those novels that takes a little time to set the stage and builds up to a slow burn until you suddenly realize you've gotten to a point where you can't put it down. My only real complaint is that the last hundred pages or so were a real roller coaster ride and I felt a bit yanked around, but all's well that ends well, and the ending, though brief, was very satisfying. I believe this book is the first in a planned series, and if so I'll be in line to read the next one. Lady of Ashes is a Victorian mystery that's a bit heavier on the history than others I've read, and that combination of historical events and people impacting the story, intrigue, danger, emotional drama, and of course, some romance, makes for a sharp, compelling, and exciting read.
October 28, 2020
What did I think...?
Well I have been reading a lot of historical-cozy-women-sleuth type of books and they seem to be all the same lately.
So this one looked different and interesting...a lady undertaker?
It did start off really good, the author provided a lot of great historical details in the story with information on funeral-undertaking business of that time period, as well as "behind the door stuff" if you will, that I feared would be gruesome or bother me.
Which it didn't.
I think this was due to Violet our main character and how she handled things in the business as well as her "clients" be they alive or not.
Unfortunately, the author had to go and throw in way to many secondary characters, that started to leave me quite confused and then other historical details that really weren't needed nor pertained to the story at times.
All of this ended up taking away from our main character Violet, and the plot.
I started to skip, but then all the other stuff would switch into the main plot-line and I would be totally lost and have to go back to figure who was who...and what was what.
Way too much unnecessary filler which ruined it for this reader, and I'm not sure if I want to put out future reading time on this series...for now.
Well I have been reading a lot of historical-cozy-women-sleuth type of books and they seem to be all the same lately.
So this one looked different and interesting...a lady undertaker?
It did start off really good, the author provided a lot of great historical details in the story with information on funeral-undertaking business of that time period, as well as "behind the door stuff" if you will, that I feared would be gruesome or bother me.
Which it didn't.
I think this was due to Violet our main character and how she handled things in the business as well as her "clients" be they alive or not.
Unfortunately, the author had to go and throw in way to many secondary characters, that started to leave me quite confused and then other historical details that really weren't needed nor pertained to the story at times.
All of this ended up taking away from our main character Violet, and the plot.
I started to skip, but then all the other stuff would switch into the main plot-line and I would be totally lost and have to go back to figure who was who...and what was what.
Way too much unnecessary filler which ruined it for this reader, and I'm not sure if I want to put out future reading time on this series...for now.
January 11, 2016
This book has the dubious distinction of being the first truly unsatisfying book of the year, and the first to earn a one star rating from me in a long, long time. It was just a bore from start to finish and reading it fast became a chore. Told in third person POV the story was populated with too many characters I didn't care about - including the lead female - and a mish-mash of subplots driven by cartoonish motivations. I will not be back for more.
July 3, 2021
A very well written historical fiction with an overlay of mystery and romance. The setting is 1860's Victorian London England. I really admired the author's use of a strong female protagonist with the occupation of an undertaker. A novel use of an out of the ordinary occupation for a female living during the restrictive Victorian era instead of the usual occupation of other authors using occupations of private inquiry agent or just nosey amateurish female sleuths.
March 6, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed LADY OF ASHES, the first book in an original new series featuring Victorian undertakers. This book first caught my eye many months ago, and I was intrigued that the protagonist was a 19th century female undertaker. Though her career choice was odd for a woman of her time, Violet Morgan's character was likable and easy to connect with, and she drew me into the story. She was a compassionate person and savvy businesswoman, able to keep Morgan Undertaking thriving while her husband's shady dealings kept him otherwise occupied.
LADY OF ASHES was well-researched historical fiction, giving readers a detailed look at funeral practices and mourning customs during the Victorian Era, as well as British opinions about Americans and the Civil War, and the plight of the London poor.
The plot moved slowly at first, but my morbid fascination with the subject matter (early embalming techniques!) easily held my interest. The pacing picked up considerably after Violet suspects foul play in the deaths of two seemingly unrelated people. I loved how the mystery played out - very exciting!
A macabre murder mystery, a touch of political intrigue, and a vivid glimpse of life in 1860s London made LADY OF ASHES an engrossing read. 4½-stars!
Review copy courtesy of the author in conjunction with Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours.
LADY OF ASHES was well-researched historical fiction, giving readers a detailed look at funeral practices and mourning customs during the Victorian Era, as well as British opinions about Americans and the Civil War, and the plight of the London poor.
The plot moved slowly at first, but my morbid fascination with the subject matter (early embalming techniques!) easily held my interest. The pacing picked up considerably after Violet suspects foul play in the deaths of two seemingly unrelated people. I loved how the mystery played out - very exciting!
A macabre murder mystery, a touch of political intrigue, and a vivid glimpse of life in 1860s London made LADY OF ASHES an engrossing read. 4½-stars!
Review copy courtesy of the author in conjunction with Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours.
November 7, 2022
Fascinating in parts, but there was so much going on my head was spinning. A female undertaker who finds the husband she’d adored now wants her to forgo her chosen career to keep house. He’s involved in smuggling for the Confederacy. It does seem th devolve into plain old smuggling mainly of rum. She becomes involved with a female serial killer, a train crash, is taken up by Queen Victoria to assist with Prince Albert’s funeral, etc. I’m exhausted trying to hold it all together…but wait! There’s more! (No steak knives however)
January 7, 2022
This tale took me by surprise. It’s rich in history and brings the period to life. The crown, diplomacy, and the science of undertaking woven around the life of Violet Morgan and a series of natural murders that raise her suspicions. The Americas, traitors and more await you in this first in series.
Violet married an undertaker. She prefers working side by side with him, or should I say she runs the business, but I am getting ahead of myself. Domestic life isn’t her strong suit, but she tries to make a happy home.
The Morgan’s marriage has issues from him constantly firing the housekeepers that she employees to his secrets. Violet has been left to deal with the daily routine of their business. Arranging funerals, soothing the mourners, and preparing the bodies. Graham, unbeknownst to his wife, is looking to make money off the Americans during the Civil War.
I enjoyed how the author pulled us in and gave us a glimpse into the Morgan household before slowly weaving in the murder mystery. Mr. Morgan’s plans to aid will unknowingly change Violet’s life.
While he is busy trying to improve his station, Violet is undertaking the funeral of a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and rescuing a child from the workhouse. I felt like I was walking the streets of 1861 London. I connected with Violet and felt for her through her troubled marriage to the way she handled accusations with dignity.
There is a bit of a romance, but I will leave you to discover that morsel. The story is brilliant and captures moments with the Queen, loss, social ladders, the plight of London’s poor and the diplomatic dance London plays with the Americas.
It really is a tapestry of time. The author wove these storylines together into the beginning of a saga that I cannot wait to continue.
Fans of historical fiction that have rich characters, a light mystery and period tidbits will delight in the Lady of Ashes series. There are six books in the series (saga) and the first three books were just released by Tantor.
Polly Lee narrates and became the voice of Violet. Her tone and pacing enhanced the story and I will continue to listen. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Violet married an undertaker. She prefers working side by side with him, or should I say she runs the business, but I am getting ahead of myself. Domestic life isn’t her strong suit, but she tries to make a happy home.
The Morgan’s marriage has issues from him constantly firing the housekeepers that she employees to his secrets. Violet has been left to deal with the daily routine of their business. Arranging funerals, soothing the mourners, and preparing the bodies. Graham, unbeknownst to his wife, is looking to make money off the Americans during the Civil War.
I enjoyed how the author pulled us in and gave us a glimpse into the Morgan household before slowly weaving in the murder mystery. Mr. Morgan’s plans to aid will unknowingly change Violet’s life.
While he is busy trying to improve his station, Violet is undertaking the funeral of a friend of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and rescuing a child from the workhouse. I felt like I was walking the streets of 1861 London. I connected with Violet and felt for her through her troubled marriage to the way she handled accusations with dignity.
There is a bit of a romance, but I will leave you to discover that morsel. The story is brilliant and captures moments with the Queen, loss, social ladders, the plight of London’s poor and the diplomatic dance London plays with the Americas.
It really is a tapestry of time. The author wove these storylines together into the beginning of a saga that I cannot wait to continue.
Fans of historical fiction that have rich characters, a light mystery and period tidbits will delight in the Lady of Ashes series. There are six books in the series (saga) and the first three books were just released by Tantor.
Polly Lee narrates and became the voice of Violet. Her tone and pacing enhanced the story and I will continue to listen. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
June 20, 2013
The main character was okay, but not fully developed. In fact, none of the characters were. Another problem for me were the pages upon pages about the Civil War. Frankly, I just wanted a nice murder....
November 20, 2020
I was introduced to this author through the Deadly Hours novella collection and enjoyed the author's novella. I was expecting this full-length to be a mystery and it was partially, but seemed to be more focused on explaining main character Violet's occupation as an undertaker as well as fleshing our her personal life. The writing was engaging and I loved that the novel was full of history. I would have liked this to be more of a mystery since that is what I was expecting, but ended up enjoying this novel even though it wasn't what I expected.
February 22, 2023
I felt very drawn to read this as it had some of my favorite elements to read about. It took me a bit to get to it but ultimately I'm glad I have.I honesty enjoyed the characters and the plotline.It was well told and written but there was just something not particularly interesting to me about the many mysteries that pop up throughout it.I will however be giving this series another chance as ultimately I loved Violet and Susanna's stories and want to find out what else awaits them.
August 15, 2016
I'm actually surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel. I don't know what I was expecting to be honest, but it wasn't this.
Violet Morgan is a well-written, independent female character, and I kind of adore her. In the style of Jo March and Anne Shirley, Violet marches to the beat of her own drum and refuses to let anyone drown out her tune. Faced with a husband with scurrilous behavior, an orphaned ward, a marring injury, and thieving help, Violet rises to every occasion and behaves exactly the way a fierce, fabulous female should. Remarkable in her time, perhaps even remarkable in ours, Violet is one of my new favorite female characters in literature.
Violet Morgan is a well-written, independent female character, and I kind of adore her. In the style of Jo March and Anne Shirley, Violet marches to the beat of her own drum and refuses to let anyone drown out her tune. Faced with a husband with scurrilous behavior, an orphaned ward, a marring injury, and thieving help, Violet rises to every occasion and behaves exactly the way a fierce, fabulous female should. Remarkable in her time, perhaps even remarkable in ours, Violet is one of my new favorite female characters in literature.
July 2, 2015
I loved the cover of this and the idea of a woman undertaker. There were elements of the story that were good but on the whole the story was all over the place. There were too many storylines which made reading this book as bad as keeping track of a soap opera. As you can guess I have never been one for soaps.
I had gotten book #2 out of the library but now I am not sure if I will continue with the series.
I had gotten book #2 out of the library but now I am not sure if I will continue with the series.
January 20, 2014
Perhaps I'm being a bit generous, but I liked the protagonist a lot, and the historical setting was well done. Agreed that the plot became long with the side discussions of the Adams family and Queen Victoria. Still, I'm looking forward to the sequel due out later this year.
July 16, 2019
There was a lot going on with this book. I thought it was a historical mystery but it was more of a historical fiction for the first half of the book. It then morphed into a historical fiction/romance/mystery with lots of the American Civil War peppered throughout. I thought some of the continued appearances of some characters was a bit much.... They didn't add much to the ongoing story. I did find the story of a female undertaker interesting. The story itself was just too long and convoluted... It could have been decreased by 40%. Honestly, I liked Violet, Suzanna and Sam a lot which is why I stuck with this but it was a crowded plot. I'm going to give book 2 a try. Hopefully, the author is done setting the scene.
P.S. There is 52 minutes left and the author's note has already started. I assume a preview of book 2 is included but 52 minutes is still a lot for an authors note & preview.
P.S.S. The authors note ended up being 20 minutes. I'm glad I listened to it as I found out some interesting info on the characters from the book.
Story....3 to 3.5'ish
Narration...5 - I had no idea Polly Lee was Ashford McNab!!!
P.S. There is 52 minutes left and the author's note has already started. I assume a preview of book 2 is included but 52 minutes is still a lot for an authors note & preview.
P.S.S. The authors note ended up being 20 minutes. I'm glad I listened to it as I found out some interesting info on the characters from the book.
Story....3 to 3.5'ish
Narration...5 - I had no idea Polly Lee was Ashford McNab!!!
December 21, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. I always like books with strong-willed and determined women characters and Violet Morgan was definitely that. In Victorian England, unconventional Violet married an undertaker and rather than being put off by the practice, she found she had a knack for working with the dead. That was also something I liked about this book, because, like Violet, I’ve always had great respect for those who have died and I’ve also felt that undertaking would be an interesting profession. Much more interesting than what I do (administrative assistant). Unfortunately for Violet, after several years of marriage her husband, Graham, who is trying to rise above his station in life, just wants a wife who stays home and manages the house and servants rather than his business. Unfortunately for Graham, Violet is much better at the undertaking business. When Violet finds a young girl asleep in a coffin in her shop, Violet takes her in, much to Graham’s dismay. Things change drastically for all three after Susannah comes to live with them. I love mysteries in which I can’t figure out who the murderer is. I thought Ms. Trent was very clever plotting this story out. I liked this book so much that I hunted for a sequel. I didn’t find it, but I did find several books Ms. Trent has written with strong female leading characters, that I may well read in the future. I liked this story a lot and learned several things about Victorian England and undertaking that I never knew.
March 17, 2013
I really wanted to like this book about a lady mortician in England in the midst of the US Civil War. In some ways I did. The story was in-depth and it kept me captivated. Major plot points include: being a business woman (in the business of death no less) during this time period, navigating a horrible marriage, getting involved with the burial of Prince Albert, pulling in American politics, etc., etc. And you could tell the book was very well researched. Perhaps TOO well researched because this was my main problem with the book.
"Wait!" you say. "How can a book be too well researched?" When it seems like every little detail had to be included to the point of being distracting. There were so many little tidbits or historical facts that didn't really move anything forward (or even set the stage for the time period) that it seemed to forced. Not to mention some of the points of view of these characters has a distinctive 21st century bent to them. I wish that it had flowed more smoothly. Because I was so distracted by these things, it detracted from the story for me, which was (all other things considered) quite fun and enjoyable.
"Wait!" you say. "How can a book be too well researched?" When it seems like every little detail had to be included to the point of being distracting. There were so many little tidbits or historical facts that didn't really move anything forward (or even set the stage for the time period) that it seemed to forced. Not to mention some of the points of view of these characters has a distinctive 21st century bent to them. I wish that it had flowed more smoothly. Because I was so distracted by these things, it detracted from the story for me, which was (all other things considered) quite fun and enjoyable.
March 19, 2013
I was really looking forward to reading this book. From the synopsis, it looked really interesting. For the most part it was a good mystery with a strong female lead. I liked Violet and her determination to be a good undertaker. She is a smart and compassionate woman. I also liked the glimpse into the world of death and burials in the late 1800s.
The problem that I had with the book was that it was too packed with plots and historical figures. Had the book just followed the killer plot that I was expecting, I think I would have liked it more. I found myself skimming parts of the book, especially the parts pertaining to the civil war. The mix of American and British history just didn't work for me. I would recommend reading the notes from the author at the end of the book. She provides more information about the historical figures in the book. I found that interesting.
The problem that I had with the book was that it was too packed with plots and historical figures. Had the book just followed the killer plot that I was expecting, I think I would have liked it more. I found myself skimming parts of the book, especially the parts pertaining to the civil war. The mix of American and British history just didn't work for me. I would recommend reading the notes from the author at the end of the book. She provides more information about the historical figures in the book. I found that interesting.
March 20, 2015
Enjoyed this book. Poor Violet! Every time she turned around, something awful seems to befall her. Being a Victorian undertaker, I am sure Violet received more than a few odd looks!! The author added two characters whom I liked, Susanna ans Samuel Harper, an American who was in England to ferret out blockade runners such as Rhett Bulter in Gone with the Wind who were attempting to bring items to the South as the American Civil War was going full throttle. Violet becomes involved Queen Victoria's husband's funeral when he dies from typhoid fever at 42. Thank goodness Violet loves her job as her marriage begins to fall apart in many ways. She is involved in personal trauma besides her marriage. It was always something, but Violet is a strong and independent woman. She made me (a woman) proud. Strongly recomended for independent women and men who would understand them.
September 23, 2013
I woman mortician in a society that believes woman should not dirty their hands. It was a great read that I truely enjoyed. I had to dig into finding out how death was dealt with in the past and this author was spot on. I love a strong character, even when they have their faults.
December 13, 2017
I overall enjoyed this book, however, it was drawn out I felt and all over the place as far as the story line. Too much happening for the first book in a series and just felt a tad squeezed together. Still, somehow, I actually enjoyed it.
March 14, 2016
I was fascinated by the Victorian undertaking business. I could have done without the zoo scene. It just seemed too far fetched.
February 20, 2019
My Rating: 3.5*
How do I start to explain this book? Is it a Victorian murder/mystery? Or is it an historic political intrigue with a side order of Victorian murder/mystery? Or is is a fascinatingly morbid or morbidly fascinating (I can't decide which) tale of a female Victorian undertaker, Violet Morgan, who loves her job and hates household management. In an age where Mrs. Beeton ruled how to run a household, Violet would rather be in her shop or visiting clients in planning funerals. It is definitely an ambitious endeavor with great historic detail and research that had me learning a thing or two I didn't know. I just don't know if I can capture it all properly in here in this review.
Working along side her neurotic, somewhat deranged, and obsessed husband of seven years, who finds a chance to exact revenge on Americans during the Civil War and starts spending less time dealing with undertaking, Violet keeps the business running. However, her household management skills are being constantly questioned by her social climbing husband. Throw into the mix politics, royalty, a train disaster, an orphan, and questionable deaths, you have many threads that need to come together at the end.
Was it successful? For the most part, yes. I was able to keep everything straight in my head and follow along. I did figure out who the murderer was, but felt the murder/mystery was really only a very small part of the overall story arc. That being said, I think this book is just laying the groundwork for the rest of the series.
Did I like it? Yes, but felt some aspects could have been tightened or shortened; namely, the household management scenarios. I felt their was a bit of too much repetition with this at the beginning. Will I continue the series? Yes, I do like the character of Violet. She is challenging the mindsets of society by working in a field only men have held, and her calm outer exterior, belies a passionate/compassionate and take-charge attitude.
Would I recommend this book? As I am a fan of Victorian murder/mysteries and historical details being woven through a story, yes. This is my first book by this author, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 25, 2020
DNF @ pg 40
September 10, 2016
In Christine Trent’s newest novel Lady of Ashes which releases tomorrow she hits on an intriguing story line – a woman undertaker in Victorian London. This novel is great mix of historical details along with a tale that keeps you turning the pages. Lady of Ashes is the first book in a new historical mystery series that Christine is writing and I can’t wait to read more. She is one author who can spin a tale that never fails to draw me in and keep me there! I must say as well that I adore this cover along with the title!
Violet Morgan is no normal lady of society. In fact, she is an undertaker who works along with her husband in their shop which is something unheard of back in the 1860′s. Not only is she an undertaker but she’s spirited, opinionated, independent, and quite intelligent – again out of the norm that most women followed back then of the quiet, polite, homemaking lady. Violet can dress up a deceased person but don’t ask her to roast a duck because it’s unlikely she could. While she loves working with her husband Graham trouble seems to be brewing on the marital front. The very thing that first attracted Graham to Violet which was how she took so quickly to the undertaking business now seems to be turning him off and he’s complaining that she doesn’t keep a proper home for him. It’s not long before Graham is keeping secrets from Violet and staying out all night and it leaves her wondering what her husband is up to.
Too add to Graham’s displeasure of his wife she takes in an orphan of whom she becomes quite attached. In the meantime Graham is still up to no good and it’s not long before he and his brother have to flee London for their lives. This leaves Violet on her own with the orphan Susanna but Violet is no weeping willow and she pulls up her boots and moves on with, of course, the help of a handsome fellow who is more than willing to help her. As all of this is unfolding Violet is noticing disturbing things with the corpses she is attending for burial and she begins to wonder if there isn’t someone causing these deaths. To this end Violet finds herself in even more dire straits and soon enough she is fighting for both her and Susanna’s life. Who will be victorious – the murderer or Violet?
While this novel is full of many true historical characters and happenings which I really liked as I learned quite a bit, it is still Violet who steals the show. It is her story that kept me turning the pages. I really liked her and the way she stood up for what she believed in. Of course she elicited a few giggles from me when she was angered and would becomes incensed at people who she felt deserved a verbal battering. The novel also takes us back to Victorian London in a way that made me feel as though I was there. Trent is a very descriptive writer and I could almost feel the darkness of the streets and the swirling mist that seemed to constantly fill the air. One of my favorite parts though would have to be the diary entries of the murderer every few chapters as they contemplated the people getting in their way and the next move that they would have to make. What I found to be the most intriguing thing about the book was the information on the undertaking business back in the 1800′s. It was fascinating to learn how they prepared bodies back then and that embalming was thought to be evil and not a common practice as it is today.
Lady of Ashes by Christine Trent is another winner for me. I enjoy her writing and her stories and I could not have found a better way to spend my weekend than to immerse myself in the tale she wove. I am already looking forward to the next novel in this series!
Violet Morgan is no normal lady of society. In fact, she is an undertaker who works along with her husband in their shop which is something unheard of back in the 1860′s. Not only is she an undertaker but she’s spirited, opinionated, independent, and quite intelligent – again out of the norm that most women followed back then of the quiet, polite, homemaking lady. Violet can dress up a deceased person but don’t ask her to roast a duck because it’s unlikely she could. While she loves working with her husband Graham trouble seems to be brewing on the marital front. The very thing that first attracted Graham to Violet which was how she took so quickly to the undertaking business now seems to be turning him off and he’s complaining that she doesn’t keep a proper home for him. It’s not long before Graham is keeping secrets from Violet and staying out all night and it leaves her wondering what her husband is up to.
Too add to Graham’s displeasure of his wife she takes in an orphan of whom she becomes quite attached. In the meantime Graham is still up to no good and it’s not long before he and his brother have to flee London for their lives. This leaves Violet on her own with the orphan Susanna but Violet is no weeping willow and she pulls up her boots and moves on with, of course, the help of a handsome fellow who is more than willing to help her. As all of this is unfolding Violet is noticing disturbing things with the corpses she is attending for burial and she begins to wonder if there isn’t someone causing these deaths. To this end Violet finds herself in even more dire straits and soon enough she is fighting for both her and Susanna’s life. Who will be victorious – the murderer or Violet?
While this novel is full of many true historical characters and happenings which I really liked as I learned quite a bit, it is still Violet who steals the show. It is her story that kept me turning the pages. I really liked her and the way she stood up for what she believed in. Of course she elicited a few giggles from me when she was angered and would becomes incensed at people who she felt deserved a verbal battering. The novel also takes us back to Victorian London in a way that made me feel as though I was there. Trent is a very descriptive writer and I could almost feel the darkness of the streets and the swirling mist that seemed to constantly fill the air. One of my favorite parts though would have to be the diary entries of the murderer every few chapters as they contemplated the people getting in their way and the next move that they would have to make. What I found to be the most intriguing thing about the book was the information on the undertaking business back in the 1800′s. It was fascinating to learn how they prepared bodies back then and that embalming was thought to be evil and not a common practice as it is today.
Lady of Ashes by Christine Trent is another winner for me. I enjoy her writing and her stories and I could not have found a better way to spend my weekend than to immerse myself in the tale she wove. I am already looking forward to the next novel in this series!
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