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Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries #2
Millstone of Doubt
Regency London's detective duo is back on a new case--and this one is going to be a killer Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill's owner dead of an apparent gunshot.
Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage--and his job as a runner--comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.
When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case--and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.
Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage--and his job as a runner--comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.
When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case--and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.
304 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2022
41 people are currently reading
588 people want to read
About the author
Erica Vetsch
61 books1,394 followersBest-selling, award-winning author of The Debutante’s Code, first in the Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery Series, Erica Vetsch loves Jesus, history, romance, and sports. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s planning her next trip to a history museum. You can connect with her at her website, www.ericavetsch.com where you can learn about her books and sign up for her newsletter, and you can find her online at https://www.facebook.com/groups/inspi... where she spends way too much time!
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September 26, 2022
About this book:
“Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill's owner dead of an apparent gunshot.
Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage--and his job as a runner--comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.
When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case--and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries” series. Review of Book #1 Here! (It is best to read them in order.)
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned; Prayers; Church going (though Juliette isn’t able to concentrate on the sermon); Talks about God, serving Him, & God being our Heavenly Father; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Juliette hopes that God forgives her for telling a lie; Daniel isn’t sure if God called him to be a Bow Street runner because the job doesn’t feel like a sacrifice since “it seemed to him that the God preacher talked about mostly called people to do things that were hard, that cost them something in the doing. Certainly not something they enjoyed or might have a talent for.” (this is not brought up again in thoughts or correction); Daniel doesn’t understand about God being a loving heavenly Father due to his earthly father not being in the picture, let alone loving & says he never felt anything when listening to sermons about what a good Father God is (he says that God doesn’t care about him anymore than his real father, but a good mentor sets him straight that God’s hand was still on his life and that he had many father figures throughout his life and that gets through to Daniel); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches, church going, & vicars/ministers; A few mentions of those in the Bible; A few mentions of blessings & being blessed (including Daniel not feeling blessed because he doesn’t know his biological father); A few mentions of forgiveness; A mention of meeting your Maker; A mention of doing a Christian action; A mention of a miracle; A mention of a prayer book; A mention of an anarchist being like John Wesley at a revival meeting;
*Note: Mentions of a lore about a man who became a ghost (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a man wanting to be stood up to and being told to go to the devil since he told someone else that enough times; A mention of a man grouping all aristocrats together as evil; A mention of ghostly faces.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘botheration’, a ‘dash it all’, a ‘drat’, an ‘idiot’, and two ‘stupid’s; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; An explosion, fires, finding a murdered body, being pushed, pain, injuries, blood/bleeding, & almost fainting (up to semi-detailed); Nearly drowning, (semi-detailed to detailed); Juliette lies (because of the secrets spies have); Daniel feels resentful towards his mother due to the fact she agreed to not contact him; A bit of social drinking; All about many mentions of explosions, fires, if it’s an accident or arson, deaths, bodies, murders, how they happened, & the murderer(s) (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of suicides (that a murder was not suicide & then a rumor of a ghost that took their life); Mentions of autopsies & corpses (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of pain, injuries, & blood/bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a murder, art thieves, & thefts (Book #1); Mentions of Juliette being kidnapped (Book #1); Mentions of a planned duel (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of violence, threats, protests, & anarchists (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of crimes, criminals, arrests, & a prison; Mentions of guns/weapons, gunfire, & someone being shot (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of arson, bombs, & bombers; Mentions of thieves, looters, break-ins, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of pickpockets & fighting a couple off; Mentions of bribes & embezzlement; Mentions of card games with gambling/betting, cheating, con-artists, & debts; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & pubs/taprooms (including how Uncle Bertie acts like a drunk at social events to keep from being detected when spying, how Daniel thinks that a drunk man is bad enough, but that there’s something terribly wrong about a drunk woman, & that more nurse were drunks with no medical knowledge); Mentions of pipes, cigars, & smoking; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars (including Daniel not being sure if he should be impressed or regret her ability to quickly come up with a lie); Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of injured horses & them being killed (one from the explosion and one because he couldn’t be saved, barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of wars; A few mentions of threatening to hang a criminal; A few mentions of hunting, an accident, & a death; A couple mentions of throwing up; A mention of a torture device; A mention of someone saying that someone else would have been better off dying in the explosion than to go through what he currently is; A mention of a missing woman; A mention of a doctor having a fetal pig in a jar; A mention of children being deported for stealing.
Sexual Content- a palm kiss, a cheek kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and a detailed kiss (with a growl); Recalling a kiss (borderline semi-detailed // detailed); Wanting to kiss & thinking about kissing someone (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Nearness, & Smelling (including Daniel thinking that it’s a very intimate thing to touch a woman’s hair, all borderline barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Recalling touches, embraces, & shivers (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (borderline barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A man leers at Juliette & grabs her mouth from behind her (she defends herself by kicking him in a place “that Uncle Bertie had guaranteed would take the fight out of any man” and also gives him a bloody nose); Mentions of Daniel being born an illegitimate son of an unwed servant & not knowing anything about his biological father (including him feeling less than for it and *Major Spoiler* ; Mentions of rumored affairs, a married woman attracting many men, cheating on their wedding vows, a woman possibly replacing her lover with a new conquest, & a rumor of man casting eyes toward a married woman and making advances (including Juliette thinking that married people with roving eyes are quite common, but she hates the notion of being unfaithful to a spouse); Mentions of a rumor of a married woman doing more than just flirt with other men, her possible trysts and lovers, her reputation for flirting, another wife not appreciating her flirting with “anything in trousers”, & her swaying her hips in a way that receives men’s attention; Mentions of kisses & kissing (including seeing other couples kissing); Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of a man knowingly entering a bigamous marriage; A few mentions of the reasons for murder being power, money, and something that “has to do with men and women” (both Daniel and Juliette understand the meaning, but are embarrassed since it’s improper to discuss between unmarried individuals); A mention of the possibility of a woman becoming pregnant by another man after her marriage was annulled; A mention of a man being something of a Lothario if rumors are to be believed; A mention of a woman doing a brash thing by trying to pursue a man at his boardinghouse; A mention of a man whistling at a woman; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of women’s clothing mesmerizing males; A mention of a woman displaying “her…er…wares rather boldly”; A mention of a woman’s daring neckline; A mention of butting into an investigation.
-Juliette Thorndike, age 19/20 (?)
-Daniel Swann, age 24-25
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1816
304 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this sequel ever since finishing “The Debutante’s Code”. Regency spies and mysteries? That is absolutely my cup of tea and I was excited to see all the characters again. I even reread that first story to be able to be fully involved in this second one and, once again, swoon over the vocabulary used within that novel.
I definitely found the first book more fascinating because of the codes and art thefts, but this was an interesting story as well. Like the opening book of this series, I liked how the main plotline was the mysteries, not the romance. The romance was still on the lighter side (compared to most historical fiction books I’ve reviewed), but was more prevalent compare to the first book, and the faith content picked up a bit at the end. That latter note would be part of why my rating isn’t as high as the first book, as I would have preferred more faith discussions and questions being answered.
I do have to say that I was disappointed to be able to figure out the mysteries in this novel, though, especially since the first book took me by surprise in many ways. They both felt very obvious, but I’m not sure if that’s because I tried to notice any hints or forshadowings, or if it was more on the obvious side. I will still read the third book when it releases as I quite like Juliette, Daniel (even though he annoyed me some in this book due to his attitude towards Owen), and, yes, Uncle Bertie too.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
“Caught in the explosion of the Hammersmith Mill in London, Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann rushes to help any survivors only to find the mill's owner dead of an apparent gunshot.
Even though the owner's daughter, Agatha Montgomery, mourns his death, it seems there are more than a few people with motive for murder. But Daniel can't take this investigation slow and steady. Instead, he must dig through all the suspects as quickly as he can, because the clock is ticking until his mysterious patronage--and his job as a runner--comes to an abrupt and painful end. It seems to Daniel that, like his earthly father, his heavenly Father has abandoned him to the fates.
Lady Juliette Thorndike is Agatha's bosom friend and has the inside knowledge of the wealthy London ton to be invaluable to Daniel. She should be in a perfect position to help with the case. Still, her instructor in the art of spy craft orders her to stay out of the investigation. But circumstances intervene, dropping her into the middle of the deadly pursuit.
When a dreadful accident ends in another death on the mill floor, Daniel discovers a connection to his murder case--and to his own secret past. Now he and Juliette are in a race to find the killer before his time runs out.”
Series: Book #2 in the “Thorndike & Swann Regency Mysteries” series. Review of Book #1 Here! (It is best to read them in order.)
Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned; Prayers; Church going (though Juliette isn’t able to concentrate on the sermon); Talks about God, serving Him, & God being our Heavenly Father; 'H's are capital when referring to God; Juliette hopes that God forgives her for telling a lie; Daniel isn’t sure if God called him to be a Bow Street runner because the job doesn’t feel like a sacrifice since “it seemed to him that the God preacher talked about mostly called people to do things that were hard, that cost them something in the doing. Certainly not something they enjoyed or might have a talent for.” (this is not brought up again in thoughts or correction); Daniel doesn’t understand about God being a loving heavenly Father due to his earthly father not being in the picture, let alone loving & says he never felt anything when listening to sermons about what a good Father God is (he says that God doesn’t care about him anymore than his real father, but a good mentor sets him straight that God’s hand was still on his life and that he had many father figures throughout his life and that gets through to Daniel); Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers & praying; Mentions of churches, church going, & vicars/ministers; A few mentions of those in the Bible; A few mentions of blessings & being blessed (including Daniel not feeling blessed because he doesn’t know his biological father); A few mentions of forgiveness; A mention of meeting your Maker; A mention of doing a Christian action; A mention of a miracle; A mention of a prayer book; A mention of an anarchist being like John Wesley at a revival meeting;
*Note: Mentions of a lore about a man who became a ghost (barely-above-not-detailed); A mention of a man wanting to be stood up to and being told to go to the devil since he told someone else that enough times; A mention of a man grouping all aristocrats together as evil; A mention of ghostly faces.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘botheration’, a ‘dash it all’, a ‘drat’, an ‘idiot’, and two ‘stupid’s; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; An explosion, fires, finding a murdered body, being pushed, pain, injuries, blood/bleeding, & almost fainting (up to semi-detailed); Nearly drowning, (semi-detailed to detailed); Juliette lies (because of the secrets spies have); Daniel feels resentful towards his mother due to the fact she agreed to not contact him; A bit of social drinking; All about many mentions of explosions, fires, if it’s an accident or arson, deaths, bodies, murders, how they happened, & the murderer(s) (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of suicides (that a murder was not suicide & then a rumor of a ghost that took their life); Mentions of autopsies & corpses (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of pain, injuries, & blood/bleeding (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a murder, art thieves, & thefts (Book #1); Mentions of Juliette being kidnapped (Book #1); Mentions of a planned duel (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of violence, threats, protests, & anarchists (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of crimes, criminals, arrests, & a prison; Mentions of guns/weapons, gunfire, & someone being shot (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of arson, bombs, & bombers; Mentions of thieves, looters, break-ins, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of pickpockets & fighting a couple off; Mentions of bribes & embezzlement; Mentions of card games with gambling/betting, cheating, con-artists, & debts; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drunks, & pubs/taprooms (including how Uncle Bertie acts like a drunk at social events to keep from being detected when spying, how Daniel thinks that a drunk man is bad enough, but that there’s something terribly wrong about a drunk woman, & that more nurse were drunks with no medical knowledge); Mentions of pipes, cigars, & smoking; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars (including Daniel not being sure if he should be impressed or regret her ability to quickly come up with a lie); Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of injured horses & them being killed (one from the explosion and one because he couldn’t be saved, barely-above-not-detailed); A few mentions of wars; A few mentions of threatening to hang a criminal; A few mentions of hunting, an accident, & a death; A couple mentions of throwing up; A mention of a torture device; A mention of someone saying that someone else would have been better off dying in the explosion than to go through what he currently is; A mention of a missing woman; A mention of a doctor having a fetal pig in a jar; A mention of children being deported for stealing.
Sexual Content- a palm kiss, a cheek kiss, a barely-above-not-detailed kiss, a semi-detailed kiss, and a detailed kiss (with a growl); Recalling a kiss (borderline semi-detailed // detailed); Wanting to kiss & thinking about kissing someone (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Shivers, Nearness, & Smelling (including Daniel thinking that it’s a very intimate thing to touch a woman’s hair, all borderline barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Recalling touches, embraces, & shivers (up to semi-detailed); Wanting to touch & embrace (barely-above-not-detailed); Blushes; Noticing (borderline barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); A man leers at Juliette & grabs her mouth from behind her (she defends herself by kicking him in a place “that Uncle Bertie had guaranteed would take the fight out of any man” and also gives him a bloody nose); Mentions of Daniel being born an illegitimate son of an unwed servant & not knowing anything about his biological father (including him feeling less than for it and *Major Spoiler* ; Mentions of rumored affairs, a married woman attracting many men, cheating on their wedding vows, a woman possibly replacing her lover with a new conquest, & a rumor of man casting eyes toward a married woman and making advances (including Juliette thinking that married people with roving eyes are quite common, but she hates the notion of being unfaithful to a spouse); Mentions of a rumor of a married woman doing more than just flirt with other men, her possible trysts and lovers, her reputation for flirting, another wife not appreciating her flirting with “anything in trousers”, & her swaying her hips in a way that receives men’s attention; Mentions of kisses & kissing (including seeing other couples kissing); Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of a man knowingly entering a bigamous marriage; A few mentions of the reasons for murder being power, money, and something that “has to do with men and women” (both Daniel and Juliette understand the meaning, but are embarrassed since it’s improper to discuss between unmarried individuals); A mention of the possibility of a woman becoming pregnant by another man after her marriage was annulled; A mention of a man being something of a Lothario if rumors are to be believed; A mention of a woman doing a brash thing by trying to pursue a man at his boardinghouse; A mention of a man whistling at a woman; Some love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: A couple mentions of women’s clothing mesmerizing males; A mention of a woman displaying “her…er…wares rather boldly”; A mention of a woman’s daring neckline; A mention of butting into an investigation.
-Juliette Thorndike, age 19/20 (?)
-Daniel Swann, age 24-25
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1816
304 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Three Stars
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this sequel ever since finishing “The Debutante’s Code”. Regency spies and mysteries? That is absolutely my cup of tea and I was excited to see all the characters again. I even reread that first story to be able to be fully involved in this second one and, once again, swoon over the vocabulary used within that novel.
I definitely found the first book more fascinating because of the codes and art thefts, but this was an interesting story as well. Like the opening book of this series, I liked how the main plotline was the mysteries, not the romance. The romance was still on the lighter side (compared to most historical fiction books I’ve reviewed), but was more prevalent compare to the first book, and the faith content picked up a bit at the end. That latter note would be part of why my rating isn’t as high as the first book, as I would have preferred more faith discussions and questions being answered.
I do have to say that I was disappointed to be able to figure out the mysteries in this novel, though, especially since the first book took me by surprise in many ways. They both felt very obvious, but I’m not sure if that’s because I tried to notice any hints or forshadowings, or if it was more on the obvious side. I will still read the third book when it releases as I quite like Juliette, Daniel (even though he annoyed me some in this book due to his attitude towards Owen), and, yes, Uncle Bertie too.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
October 15, 2022
4.5 stars
Ohhhhhhhhhh pardon me a moment to continue swooning over the delicious bits of romance we’re treated to in Millstone of Doubt, the latest Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery from Erica Vetsch. The sparks & suppressed feelings between Lady Juliette and Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann ramp up in this installment, and I could not be happier about it. Add in an undercover first kiss that had me reaching for my hypothetical fainting couch (I really do need to get one of those) … and then a pivotal moment between them as this particular story winds to a close … and I’m grinning like a besotted fool! -blissful sigh-
But I digress. There’s a lot more to this story besides just kissing and making my romantic-leaning heart happy. Much intrigue abounds – from a mysterious mill explosion to more than one murder to a brewing uprising from Luddites & anarchists, Juliette, Uncle Bertrand, and Daniel have their hands full. While perhaps not quite a mission for the Crown, the murder of Juliette’s best friend’s father certainly warrants her assistance, along with Uncle Bertie’s, as Daniel works in his Bow Street role to solve the case. As bodies pile up – including some very harrowing moments where our beloved characters almost joined them – time is of the essence, and I appreciated the way the author paced the plot and action to move the story along at the right moments. The mysteries in this book are cleverly spun, and the recurring characters are fabulously layered and lovable. We also get some answers we’ve been wondering about since The Debutante’s Code but it’s not necessary to have read that before Millstone of Doubt. Recommended but not strictly required.
Bottom Line: Millstone of Doubt is another smile-inducing, breath-stealing, and attention-capturing book by Erica Vetsch. It quickly wrapped me up in its charm and intrigue, and I am smarter about history after finishing it than I was before I started. A sweet faith thread is tucked into the pages naturally and will touch many hearts with a look at the goodness of God that rings true even when we can’t see it. All the while readers are delightfully immersed in the time period and indulging in such marvelous words as “perspicacious” and “toxophilite”. This is truly a story to curl up with and savor as an entire reading experience. Oh – and hang on to your bonnets – because there’s a stunning plot twist that will affect the rest of the series and you’ll need a moment to catch your breath. I didn’t see it coming but it made brilliant, perfect sense when it did. You’ll love it!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. In the interest of full disclosure, my company JustRead Tours was also paid to coordinate an earlier social media tour – finished before I wrote my review – for this title. It did not affect my review in any way. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
Ohhhhhhhhhh pardon me a moment to continue swooning over the delicious bits of romance we’re treated to in Millstone of Doubt, the latest Thorndike & Swann Regency Mystery from Erica Vetsch. The sparks & suppressed feelings between Lady Juliette and Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann ramp up in this installment, and I could not be happier about it. Add in an undercover first kiss that had me reaching for my hypothetical fainting couch (I really do need to get one of those) … and then a pivotal moment between them as this particular story winds to a close … and I’m grinning like a besotted fool! -blissful sigh-
But I digress. There’s a lot more to this story besides just kissing and making my romantic-leaning heart happy. Much intrigue abounds – from a mysterious mill explosion to more than one murder to a brewing uprising from Luddites & anarchists, Juliette, Uncle Bertrand, and Daniel have their hands full. While perhaps not quite a mission for the Crown, the murder of Juliette’s best friend’s father certainly warrants her assistance, along with Uncle Bertie’s, as Daniel works in his Bow Street role to solve the case. As bodies pile up – including some very harrowing moments where our beloved characters almost joined them – time is of the essence, and I appreciated the way the author paced the plot and action to move the story along at the right moments. The mysteries in this book are cleverly spun, and the recurring characters are fabulously layered and lovable. We also get some answers we’ve been wondering about since The Debutante’s Code but it’s not necessary to have read that before Millstone of Doubt. Recommended but not strictly required.
Bottom Line: Millstone of Doubt is another smile-inducing, breath-stealing, and attention-capturing book by Erica Vetsch. It quickly wrapped me up in its charm and intrigue, and I am smarter about history after finishing it than I was before I started. A sweet faith thread is tucked into the pages naturally and will touch many hearts with a look at the goodness of God that rings true even when we can’t see it. All the while readers are delightfully immersed in the time period and indulging in such marvelous words as “perspicacious” and “toxophilite”. This is truly a story to curl up with and savor as an entire reading experience. Oh – and hang on to your bonnets – because there’s a stunning plot twist that will affect the rest of the series and you’ll need a moment to catch your breath. I didn’t see it coming but it made brilliant, perfect sense when it did. You’ll love it!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. In the interest of full disclosure, my company JustRead Tours was also paid to coordinate an earlier social media tour – finished before I wrote my review – for this title. It did not affect my review in any way. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)
June 20, 2023
I love to discover new authors, as each and every time it is a surprise, I have not read the first book, yet I did not feel lost, As I am a romance reader first and mystery second, I was happy I missed not much about the romance. A well-crafted mystery with many suspects and a lot of twists and turns. I liked what a great team they are and how they solved the case. I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2022
Faith shines through in the lives of these characters who only want truth and justice to prevail. “God is good regardless of your experience because the Bible says He is and the Bible never lies.”
Bow Street Runner, Daniel Swann and debutante, Juliette Thorndike cross paths again in the second book in the series.
As the day of his 25th birthday grows closer, Daniel has many questions still looming. Who is his patron and what will his solicitors tell him? Will he lose his job and be destitute? Daniel becomes distracted with a new murder to investigate which takes him to dangerous places as he rules out each suspect.
I like the way Ms Vetsch builds the story in Hammersmith and in London among the socially elite and the common mill workers. We see Juliette further her skills as an agent of the Crown and see her heart as she comforts her friend on the loss of her father.
Intriguing, exciting and romantic, this is my favorite kind of historical fiction. I learned about the milling process, Bow Street Runners and inheritance of titles during the era.
A fascinating story that I did not want to end. I am so glad there is another book coming where we will find out what the future holds for Daniel and Juliette.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
Bow Street Runner, Daniel Swann and debutante, Juliette Thorndike cross paths again in the second book in the series.
As the day of his 25th birthday grows closer, Daniel has many questions still looming. Who is his patron and what will his solicitors tell him? Will he lose his job and be destitute? Daniel becomes distracted with a new murder to investigate which takes him to dangerous places as he rules out each suspect.
I like the way Ms Vetsch builds the story in Hammersmith and in London among the socially elite and the common mill workers. We see Juliette further her skills as an agent of the Crown and see her heart as she comforts her friend on the loss of her father.
Intriguing, exciting and romantic, this is my favorite kind of historical fiction. I learned about the milling process, Bow Street Runners and inheritance of titles during the era.
A fascinating story that I did not want to end. I am so glad there is another book coming where we will find out what the future holds for Daniel and Juliette.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kregel on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are my own.*
October 2, 2022
Millstone of Doubt, the second book in the Thorndike and Swann Regency series, is just as wonderful as the first. This story has it all—mystery, romance, engaging characters, a twisty plot.
The difficulty with mysteries is having the perfect amount of characters (suspects!) yet making them distinct so the reader doesn’t get confused. And this author nailed it. I was impressed by how the story unfolded and am looking forward to the next book!
*I received a copy from NetGalley. All opinions are mine.
The difficulty with mysteries is having the perfect amount of characters (suspects!) yet making them distinct so the reader doesn’t get confused. And this author nailed it. I was impressed by how the story unfolded and am looking forward to the next book!
*I received a copy from NetGalley. All opinions are mine.
October 11, 2023
I enjoyed this second book. I finally got answers to questions I've had since book 1 and the romance is progressing which is nice. But the first kiss scene. WHY???? I absolutely HATE the way that happened. Such a ridiculous, overdone excuse to kiss. Come on, Daniel, you can do better than that. But still a good book and I'm excited for book 3!
December 5, 2022
Squeeeepppppp -- this is me fan-girling all over this series. I love the mix of mystery and Regency and all the cloak and dagger bits. Daniel is a Bow Street Investigator but Juliette is apprenticing in the family biz -- spies for the Crown. :-) Is that not spectacular? Of course their paths cross and they end up working together in some ways but...
Okay, here's where I need to say right up front that the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries need to be read in order. This is the second book so you really should read 'The Debutante's Code' first. It covers a ton of backstory for both characters and setting and some of that story arc -- especially Daniel's -- carries into this book in a spectacular fashion. Plus the romance -- fainting couches required! -- is a slow build through both books. Each does have its own mystery though.
Speaking of which -- woohoo -- I figured out two key mystery plot points in 'Millstone of Doubt'. I do believe I might make Bow Street Runner someday. :-) But there's also a few loose threads left dangling so I'm eager to get a hold of the third book asap...only it's not out yet. Sob! And I can't find out any info on it either. Patience is a virtue, as they say. Sigh.
I listened to Kim Bretton's excellent narration. There's something extra swoony about listening to a Regency with all the right accents.
https://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/20...
Okay, here's where I need to say right up front that the Thorndike and Swann Regency Mysteries need to be read in order. This is the second book so you really should read 'The Debutante's Code' first. It covers a ton of backstory for both characters and setting and some of that story arc -- especially Daniel's -- carries into this book in a spectacular fashion. Plus the romance -- fainting couches required! -- is a slow build through both books. Each does have its own mystery though.
Speaking of which -- woohoo -- I figured out two key mystery plot points in 'Millstone of Doubt'. I do believe I might make Bow Street Runner someday. :-) But there's also a few loose threads left dangling so I'm eager to get a hold of the third book asap...only it's not out yet. Sob! And I can't find out any info on it either. Patience is a virtue, as they say. Sigh.
I listened to Kim Bretton's excellent narration. There's something extra swoony about listening to a Regency with all the right accents.
https://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/20...
September 8, 2022
I have been waiting for this second installment ever since reading The Debutante's Code and it was definitely worth the wait!
The mystery and intrigue kept me fully engaged in the story and I loved seeing Juliette and Daniel working together again. A great cast of secondary characters provided wit and humor and I loved the historical details woven into the story!
Juliette and Daniel have so many challenges in their way yet I cannot help but cheer on their romance! Romance is not the main focus of the story but it is so sweet, and I loved that the story is told in dual pov so we can see both Daniel and Juliette's perspectives. The story has a satisfying ending to the mystery but leaves us with questions as to their personal and professional lives and I can't wait to read the next book!
Highly entertaining and definitely a must-read for any fan of spies and mystery in the regency era. 4.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
The mystery and intrigue kept me fully engaged in the story and I loved seeing Juliette and Daniel working together again. A great cast of secondary characters provided wit and humor and I loved the historical details woven into the story!
Juliette and Daniel have so many challenges in their way yet I cannot help but cheer on their romance! Romance is not the main focus of the story but it is so sweet, and I loved that the story is told in dual pov so we can see both Daniel and Juliette's perspectives. The story has a satisfying ending to the mystery but leaves us with questions as to their personal and professional lives and I can't wait to read the next book!
Highly entertaining and definitely a must-read for any fan of spies and mystery in the regency era. 4.5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Read
March 31, 2022I’ve been eagerly awaiting Millstone of Doubt ever since I read the first book in this series. This novel proved every bit as riveting, with characters I’d already come to know and love. A diverse cast offers endless wit and fascinating, well-rounded perspectives, and intrigues are layered and textured. It’s the perfect combination for a fully satisfying mystery. I can’t wait to read the next one!
September 24, 2022
Another great Regency mystery! The mystery kept me guessing and the romance is sweet and perfect. I love this series and am looking forward to the next book.
September 22, 2022
Millstone of Doubt is another intriguing mystery in the Thorndike & Swann series. It is book two in the series, and while you could probably pick this book up and enjoy it for the mystery that it contains, I believe that you will enjoy a deeper camaraderie with the various characters if you have also read The Debutante’s Code, which is the first book in the series.
Once again, I enjoyed working through the steps of the investigation with Detective Swann. The author has written Daniel as a man who is very capable at his job, has things from his past to work through, and struggles with a sometimes contentious boss and work environment as a Bow Street Runner. It was also exciting to dive back into the world of spies and intrigue as Juliette, Daniel, and Uncle Bertie put their training and skills to the test to try to solve the case.
The romance is still subdued and secondary to the main plot of the story, as it was in book one. However, I enjoyed the growing awareness between Juliette and Daniel and the various turns the book took in this direction, as well as other twists and turns that came about in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this Regency tale and look forward to book three in the series.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Once again, I enjoyed working through the steps of the investigation with Detective Swann. The author has written Daniel as a man who is very capable at his job, has things from his past to work through, and struggles with a sometimes contentious boss and work environment as a Bow Street Runner. It was also exciting to dive back into the world of spies and intrigue as Juliette, Daniel, and Uncle Bertie put their training and skills to the test to try to solve the case.
The romance is still subdued and secondary to the main plot of the story, as it was in book one. However, I enjoyed the growing awareness between Juliette and Daniel and the various turns the book took in this direction, as well as other twists and turns that came about in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this Regency tale and look forward to book three in the series.
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 20, 2022
1816 While at breakfast at the home of the Earl of Thorndike, Bow Street runner Daniel Swann is asked to find out why mill owner Garfield Montgomery failed to appear. Approaching the mill he is caught in an explosion, and later he finds Mongomery dead, shot. He then investigates while coping with his activities as an agent of the Crown, and various personal problems.
An entertaining and well-written Regency mystery with a hint of romance, with its varied and likeable main characters. A good addition to the series which can be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written Regency mystery with a hint of romance, with its varied and likeable main characters. A good addition to the series which can be read as a standalone story.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2022
Another wonderful regency mystery by Erica Vetsch. While I enjoyed the first book in the series, this one definitely had more oomph and I enjoyed it much more. However, I would recommend reading this series in order. While the story of this one stands well on its own, there were definite spoilers for the first book in this one and the character development builds some, so it's advantageous to read the first book first. This book follows along with the same characters. Juliette Thorndike is the daughter of an Earl and in her debut season, but also learning spycraft as an agent for the crown. Daniel Swann is a Bow Street detective, also an agent for the crown and approaching his 25th birthday when his mysterious patronage comes to an end. A lot of the open questions from the first book do get answered in this one and there is a new mystery afoot and interesting history as it regards industrialization. When a mill owner is murdered right before an explosion at the mill, Daniel questions whether the man had enemies, was engaged in untoward relationships, or if it was those who were considered anarchists and were against the technology he was bringing in that would replace people. The mystery had me turning pages, the romance was what a romance should be, the character growth was stellar and the faith thread was present. Themes of the Fatherhood of God as well as loss and grief were prevalent. All in all, this was a book with a rich story-line and enthralling characters that kept me turning pages. I would recommend to fans of inspirational historical fiction. Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance e-copy of the novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.
September 21, 2022
After reading The Debutant’s Code, I couldn’t wait for Millstone of Doubt. I was not disappointed! If anything, I liked this book even more. With humor, romance, and suspense, this Regency mystery grabbed my attention from the first and was hard to put down. I loved the historical aspects of the story and the endearing side characters as well. Uncle Bertie is my favorite.
Set in Regency England, Daniel Swann who’s a Bow Street Runner, but also training to be a secret agent for the crown, embarks on another mystery this time involving murder and a flour mill. When he accompanies Lady Juliette and her friend Agatha Montgomery to Hammersmith Mill after Agatha’s father fails to arrive to at small party, they are caught up in a terrible explosion. Agatha’s father is dead, but the cause is not the explosion.
As he tries to solve the mystery of the murder and explosion, Daniel must also grapple with the fact that his patronage will soon end on his 25th birthday. His job and all that he’s know for the past 13 years could come to an end. Then there’s the beautiful Lady Juliette. Though they come from completely different stations in life, he can’t help but be attracted to her. He’s drawn to her not only for her beauty, but her intelligence, and ingenuity when it comes to spying and solving mysteries.
In a race against time, Daniel must solve the case before more people are killed and his patronage runs out. It’s a fast-paced, suspenseful, romantic mystery with a slew of suspects and motivations that kept me turning the pages. There’s also an inspirational message subtly woven into the story that Christian fiction fans will enjoy.
I loved the romance between Daniel and Juliette. That first kiss was amazing and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! I also loved the way these two work together. There’s some comical exchanges as the two try to clandestinely pass messages to each other. I also loved the palpable attraction they both try to fight.
The mystery immediately drew me in. I loved the historical details and the scientific clues used to determine the cause of the explosion. The pacing was fantastic without a lull in the action and suspense. The motivations were varied and complex, and the suspects ranged from a potential fiancé to Luddite anarchists.
This is a must read for Regency mystery and romance fans! The ending left me eagerly waiting for the next book.. This is the second book in the Thorndike & Swann Regency mystery series and while it could be read as a standalone, it’s much more enjoyable if you’ve read the first book in the series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Set in Regency England, Daniel Swann who’s a Bow Street Runner, but also training to be a secret agent for the crown, embarks on another mystery this time involving murder and a flour mill. When he accompanies Lady Juliette and her friend Agatha Montgomery to Hammersmith Mill after Agatha’s father fails to arrive to at small party, they are caught up in a terrible explosion. Agatha’s father is dead, but the cause is not the explosion.
As he tries to solve the mystery of the murder and explosion, Daniel must also grapple with the fact that his patronage will soon end on his 25th birthday. His job and all that he’s know for the past 13 years could come to an end. Then there’s the beautiful Lady Juliette. Though they come from completely different stations in life, he can’t help but be attracted to her. He’s drawn to her not only for her beauty, but her intelligence, and ingenuity when it comes to spying and solving mysteries.
In a race against time, Daniel must solve the case before more people are killed and his patronage runs out. It’s a fast-paced, suspenseful, romantic mystery with a slew of suspects and motivations that kept me turning the pages. There’s also an inspirational message subtly woven into the story that Christian fiction fans will enjoy.
I loved the romance between Daniel and Juliette. That first kiss was amazing and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book! I also loved the way these two work together. There’s some comical exchanges as the two try to clandestinely pass messages to each other. I also loved the palpable attraction they both try to fight.
The mystery immediately drew me in. I loved the historical details and the scientific clues used to determine the cause of the explosion. The pacing was fantastic without a lull in the action and suspense. The motivations were varied and complex, and the suspects ranged from a potential fiancé to Luddite anarchists.
This is a must read for Regency mystery and romance fans! The ending left me eagerly waiting for the next book.. This is the second book in the Thorndike & Swann Regency mystery series and while it could be read as a standalone, it’s much more enjoyable if you’ve read the first book in the series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
January 12, 2023
I was worried this would be too intense for me and it was at times, so I scrolled through fast and got the gist. But most of it was compelling and the more I read, the more I realized how many threads there were to the plot. There is the spy thread with the Duke of Haverly, the main murder mystery (which is complex in itself), Agatha and the Viscount, Juliette and her parents, Juliette and her uncle and their spy craft, Juliette and Daniel, Daniel’s mysterious background, Daniel’s relationship with his Bow Street colleagues, etc. Whew! This is all handled so well and gives so much delightful complexity to the story for both character and plot. While the first third of the book was a bit slow going for me, the last two thirds absolutely took off. There were so many things about it I enjoyed.
This second book advances the story of Daniel’s background. There is so much to process there for both Daniel and the reader, so the third book is bound to be intensely interesting. Vetsch has set up such a tangled web there. It almost reads like an Agatha Christie novel with the particular subject matter. I did suspect part of this plot thread earlier on, but it didn’t make the final reveal any less interesting because we got the full story then.
For the murder mystery part, I also guessed the murderer, but I also didn’t mind that. Honestly, I’m in this for the characters and the spy plots more than the murder mystery. I was relieved that a couple characters were innocent because I didn’t know whether to be suspicious of them or not. Now that I know the outcome, I would enjoy their characters even more on a re-read (and I feel intensely sorry for them both, though for different reasons).
I enjoy Daniel and Juliette immensely. But I also petition for a book (or books) about Juliette’s Uncle Bertie (Bertrand). Perhaps because he’s older and I’m now older, I find him more attractive than Daniel. I don’t know if the author is a PG Wodehouse fan, but she chose the perfect nickname for him. Uncle Bertie plays the man-about-town like Bertie Wooster to perfection as a cover for being a spy for the Crown. He’s probably in his 30s and unmarried. See where I’m going with this? So much room for good storytelling and character development and romance! 😆
This series definitely needs to be read in order. I am really looking forward to Book 3.
This second book advances the story of Daniel’s background. There is so much to process there for both Daniel and the reader, so the third book is bound to be intensely interesting. Vetsch has set up such a tangled web there. It almost reads like an Agatha Christie novel with the particular subject matter. I did suspect part of this plot thread earlier on, but it didn’t make the final reveal any less interesting because we got the full story then.
For the murder mystery part, I also guessed the murderer, but I also didn’t mind that. Honestly, I’m in this for the characters and the spy plots more than the murder mystery. I was relieved that a couple characters were innocent because I didn’t know whether to be suspicious of them or not. Now that I know the outcome, I would enjoy their characters even more on a re-read (and I feel intensely sorry for them both, though for different reasons).
I enjoy Daniel and Juliette immensely. But I also petition for a book (or books) about Juliette’s Uncle Bertie (Bertrand). Perhaps because he’s older and I’m now older, I find him more attractive than Daniel. I don’t know if the author is a PG Wodehouse fan, but she chose the perfect nickname for him. Uncle Bertie plays the man-about-town like Bertie Wooster to perfection as a cover for being a spy for the Crown. He’s probably in his 30s and unmarried. See where I’m going with this? So much room for good storytelling and character development and romance! 😆
This series definitely needs to be read in order. I am really looking forward to Book 3.
August 9, 2022
‘Don’t blame God for the shortcomings of men.’
Erica Vetsch writes a great Regency and I do love a Regency. The first book in this series was very good and I was very much looking forward to the second. Here it is, and I was not disappointed. I loved it!
Vetsch has brought us great characters, a tough to crack mystery (I never guessed the culprit.), and a satisfying read all around. She also includes a deeply moving spiritual truth that ministered to me. Well done!
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion in this review is expressly my own.
Erica Vetsch writes a great Regency and I do love a Regency. The first book in this series was very good and I was very much looking forward to the second. Here it is, and I was not disappointed. I loved it!
Vetsch has brought us great characters, a tough to crack mystery (I never guessed the culprit.), and a satisfying read all around. She also includes a deeply moving spiritual truth that ministered to me. Well done!
My thanks to Kregel Publications for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion in this review is expressly my own.
September 19, 2022
Teacups, bonnets and spies, oh my! A Regency era story with an intriguing mystery, solid characters and romance to boot.
This second book in the series is easy to pick up and read on its own. The author includes some real history in the plot and makes it come alive as the characters get involved in dangerous situations. Deeper themes are inserted in places, with a few pauses for personal reflection by the main characters, as they struggle with finding their purpose in life. Daniel's spiritual doubts are poignant especially as he works through his difficult upbringing. It was encouraging to read his friend's exhortation to look back on his life to see God's hand at work, guiding and caring for him.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Regency era fiction with a twist of faith and clean romance. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
This second book in the series is easy to pick up and read on its own. The author includes some real history in the plot and makes it come alive as the characters get involved in dangerous situations. Deeper themes are inserted in places, with a few pauses for personal reflection by the main characters, as they struggle with finding their purpose in life. Daniel's spiritual doubts are poignant especially as he works through his difficult upbringing. It was encouraging to read his friend's exhortation to look back on his life to see God's hand at work, guiding and caring for him.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Regency era fiction with a twist of faith and clean romance. 4.5 stars
(An ebook was provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)
January 9, 2023
What a treat to visit Lady Juliette Thorndike and Bow Street Runner Daniel Swann again in Millstone of Doubt by Erica Vetsch.
While the attraction between our hero and heroine sparked through the pages at times, it’s the mystery that kept me invested in this story. So many possibilities of who could be behind the explosion that lead Juliette and Daniel in many directions. And all while Daniel is approaching his 25th year which means his patronage will end (there are some answers to that mystery as well in this book).
I love seeing characters from other books make their way into stories, and Vetsch does not disappoint as Marcus (aka the Duke of Haverly) and his mother are part of this story. I look forward to the next installment in this series (especially after the pronouncement at the end of this one).
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
While the attraction between our hero and heroine sparked through the pages at times, it’s the mystery that kept me invested in this story. So many possibilities of who could be behind the explosion that lead Juliette and Daniel in many directions. And all while Daniel is approaching his 25th year which means his patronage will end (there are some answers to that mystery as well in this book).
I love seeing characters from other books make their way into stories, and Vetsch does not disappoint as Marcus (aka the Duke of Haverly) and his mother are part of this story. I look forward to the next installment in this series (especially after the pronouncement at the end of this one).
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
June 28, 2024
I enjoyed the second installment of this series. I love the mix of regency and mystery. It is such a fun read, and still has a wonderful dash of faith and adventure.
I can't wait to read the last book and find out the conclusion to some of the ongoing drama.
Content notes: a couple of murders, some violence, some kissing, an some rumors of people being unfaithful to their spouses.
I can't wait to read the last book and find out the conclusion to some of the ongoing drama.
Content notes: a couple of murders, some violence, some kissing, an some rumors of people being unfaithful to their spouses.
September 29, 2022
Both Daniel Swann and Lady Juliette Thorndike are experiencing some difficulties in life. Daniel is a Bow Street Runner yet it seems like his employment will soon have its last day. Meanwhile, Juliette is very concerned for her friend Agatha Montgomery as her father has apparently been shot while he was at work.
Daniel is involved because there was an explosion at the mill where Agatha's father was the owner. Moreso, because the cause of her father's death suggested that the explosion might have been an attempt to hide the murder. As Daniel and Juliette have worked well together in the past, the pair find themselves working together again. Daniel is not part of the ton, yet Juliette is. While she proves instrumental to the case at hand, one thing perplexes them both - their strong attraction to one another despite their different stations in life. Any blooming romance between the too seems forever denied.
Millstone of Doubt makes a second excellent book in this historical regency cozy mystery series. I love Daniel and Juliette together while they solve cases, and with the apparent conflict when it comes to any chance at happiness between them. For the case at hand, there seems to be at least a few suspects, making the pair having a race against time as they try to solve the murder and find out who was responsible for the explosion at the mill. Great intrigue, wonderful characters, a few surprises and a delightful ending make this book thoroughly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/YR1GMX2mJvM
Daniel is involved because there was an explosion at the mill where Agatha's father was the owner. Moreso, because the cause of her father's death suggested that the explosion might have been an attempt to hide the murder. As Daniel and Juliette have worked well together in the past, the pair find themselves working together again. Daniel is not part of the ton, yet Juliette is. While she proves instrumental to the case at hand, one thing perplexes them both - their strong attraction to one another despite their different stations in life. Any blooming romance between the too seems forever denied.
Millstone of Doubt makes a second excellent book in this historical regency cozy mystery series. I love Daniel and Juliette together while they solve cases, and with the apparent conflict when it comes to any chance at happiness between them. For the case at hand, there seems to be at least a few suspects, making the pair having a race against time as they try to solve the murder and find out who was responsible for the explosion at the mill. Great intrigue, wonderful characters, a few surprises and a delightful ending make this book thoroughly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Kregel Publications and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please enjoy my YouTube video review as well - https://youtu.be/YR1GMX2mJvM
August 23, 2023
So many suspects, so little time. I enjoyed revisiting Daniel and Juliette while they joined forces to solve this murder. While the main case was interesting, I was more intrigued by the answers we received regarding Daniel’s mysterious patron.
Lady Juliette struggles with feelings of abandonment while embracing a new lifestyle in the world of espionage. This made me very sympathetic toward her. Despite her struggles, she was loyal and quick witted.
This series is more mystery than romance, but I loved seeing the romance thread a little thicker in this book. I’m rooting for book three to give me my happily ever after. Also, one of my favorite characters from a previous series is a regular secondary character in this series, which I love!
Lady Juliette struggles with feelings of abandonment while embracing a new lifestyle in the world of espionage. This made me very sympathetic toward her. Despite her struggles, she was loyal and quick witted.
This series is more mystery than romance, but I loved seeing the romance thread a little thicker in this book. I’m rooting for book three to give me my happily ever after. Also, one of my favorite characters from a previous series is a regular secondary character in this series, which I love!
October 9, 2023
4 Stars ✨
Historical Fiction/Regency
“ Don't blame God for the shortcomings of men.”
I really enjoyed jumping back into this series! This was another delightful read that made me smile. I adore these characters so much and the mysteries they set out to solve. The atmosphere, as I mentioned in my review of the first book, has such a Sanditon feel to it. It’s so intriguing and easy to imagine all the walkways, homes and apparel of the characters. Juliette and Daniel are so charming and I couldn’t wait to see what would become of them. I’m so glad we got a glimpse into Daniels past it was shocking and such a twist. I had no idea there would be another book until I got to the end and I’m so excited to see where everything goes!
Historical Fiction/Regency
“ Don't blame God for the shortcomings of men.”
I really enjoyed jumping back into this series! This was another delightful read that made me smile. I adore these characters so much and the mysteries they set out to solve. The atmosphere, as I mentioned in my review of the first book, has such a Sanditon feel to it. It’s so intriguing and easy to imagine all the walkways, homes and apparel of the characters. Juliette and Daniel are so charming and I couldn’t wait to see what would become of them. I’m so glad we got a glimpse into Daniels past it was shocking and such a twist. I had no idea there would be another book until I got to the end and I’m so excited to see where everything goes!
March 16, 2023
I loved this book! From the first line to the last, it had my complete attention, and I did NOT want to put it down. I'm hoping that this is not the last book in a series.
November 9, 2022
Millstone of Doubt was a lovely second instalment in the Thorndyke and Swann Mysteries series. I did like this book; however, I don’t think I enjoyed it as much as the last one. Not quite sure what it was, it might have been the conclusion which felt a little bit contrived in regard to who solved it.
I did like seeing more of Daniel Swann and learning more about his motives and his past. The historical setting was also interesting: this covered the conflict between Mill owners and Luddite/anarchists. Some were against machines replacing people during the Industrial Revolution, and some seem to have been revolutionaries.
The only historical details which felt a bit “off” was some of the language, and a smattering of Americanisms in the character’s speech. I’m not sure about the characters referring to themselves as “secret agents” either. I thought that was a modern thing, and its not a term used by people in a certain business for one another. I don’t know for sure though.
I’d recommend for anyone who liked the last book, or Regency Mysteries of fans of Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners stories.
Thanks to Kregel for approving me for this title on Netgalley. I was sent a PDF version to review, which did not influence my opinions. These are entirely my own.
I did like seeing more of Daniel Swann and learning more about his motives and his past. The historical setting was also interesting: this covered the conflict between Mill owners and Luddite/anarchists. Some were against machines replacing people during the Industrial Revolution, and some seem to have been revolutionaries.
The only historical details which felt a bit “off” was some of the language, and a smattering of Americanisms in the character’s speech. I’m not sure about the characters referring to themselves as “secret agents” either. I thought that was a modern thing, and its not a term used by people in a certain business for one another. I don’t know for sure though.
I’d recommend for anyone who liked the last book, or Regency Mysteries of fans of Michelle Griep’s Bow Street Runners stories.
Thanks to Kregel for approving me for this title on Netgalley. I was sent a PDF version to review, which did not influence my opinions. These are entirely my own.
October 26, 2022
This is a new series for this author and is book 1.
I always learn a lot of new words from the Regency Period. Erica Vetsch does great research for her books. She is a favorite author of mine.
There was an explosion at a mill in London. There was also a murder to investigate. Daniel Swann was given the job to solve this case. Lady Juliette Thorndike is being tutored by her secret agent uncle. I thought this very interesting because women at this time were not usually helping to solve murder cases.
Juliette and Daniel are very much attracted to each other, but because Daniel is just a detective, he is not class-wise able to court Juliette.
Daniel's life was turned upside down when he was told to report for the reading of a will. I am very much looking forward to the author expanding on this surprise in book # 2.
I always learn a lot of new words from the Regency Period. Erica Vetsch does great research for her books. She is a favorite author of mine.
There was an explosion at a mill in London. There was also a murder to investigate. Daniel Swann was given the job to solve this case. Lady Juliette Thorndike is being tutored by her secret agent uncle. I thought this very interesting because women at this time were not usually helping to solve murder cases.
Juliette and Daniel are very much attracted to each other, but because Daniel is just a detective, he is not class-wise able to court Juliette.
Daniel's life was turned upside down when he was told to report for the reading of a will. I am very much looking forward to the author expanding on this surprise in book # 2.
September 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this second book in the Thorndike and Swann series by Erica Vetsch. I loved how there was mystery and romance. I loved how there were unexpected truths that were brought to life. I also liked how Juliette and Daniel had to figure out what was important to them and what they are willing to do to be together. I liked what a great team they are and how they solved the mystery. I can’t wait to read the next one and see what happens next.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
January 15, 2024
3.5⭐️ Though I enjoyed the first book more, this was a good 2nd book! I can absolutely appreciate the authors wide vocabulary 😂 I had to look up so many words in this book and the last.
This story picks up pretty much where the last finished. I loved seeing more of Daniel’s story explained. I did think the mysteries were much less complex—I figured them out before their reveals—, but I still enjoyed that aspect. There was a lot more noticing of physical traits in this one, but nothing too awkward (a couple kisses). I thought the end was very sweet.
Definitely ready for the next book!
This story picks up pretty much where the last finished. I loved seeing more of Daniel’s story explained. I did think the mysteries were much less complex—I figured them out before their reveals—, but I still enjoyed that aspect. There was a lot more noticing of physical traits in this one, but nothing too awkward (a couple kisses). I thought the end was very sweet.
Definitely ready for the next book!
November 26, 2025
I am devouring this series. I loved the book and narration. And now, on to number 3 in the series!!
November 10, 2022
This sequel picks up a little after the first one, as Daniel discovers Juliette's identity as a spy and they've cracked the traitorous case, preventing the King's list from being stolen. Now, Daniel's work as a Bow Street Runner will intersect with Juliette's life, as her friend's father is killed - and she wants to know who's behind it. Continuing her training with Uncle Bertie (I hope there's a book about him coming!) she's caught in the tension of orders not to investigate and her curiosity about the mill attacks.
Meanwhile, her parents also go back and forth with work for the Crown, and she struggles with their lack of presence in her life. The ending is a bit of a cliffhangar as we wait for book number three. But you will enjoy the progressive unfolding of Daniel's story and his mysterious benefactor, as well as what future lies in store between the two of them.
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
Meanwhile, her parents also go back and forth with work for the Crown, and she struggles with their lack of presence in her life. The ending is a bit of a cliffhangar as we wait for book number three. But you will enjoy the progressive unfolding of Daniel's story and his mysterious benefactor, as well as what future lies in store between the two of them.
*A big thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC and for the opportunity to post an honest review.
August 8, 2022
"Millstone of Doubt" is a Christian romance with a mystery set in 1816 in England. This is the 2nd book in the series, but you don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one. This book spoiled quite a lot about the previous book so you may wish to read them in order.
The story seemed mostly about Juliette falling in love, helped along by Daniel finding reasons to hold her closely and his giving her a deep, passionate kiss. While I liked them both, I don't understand why she's so attracted to him over the kind, supportive German noble. She mainly seemed drawn to Daniel because he knew her spy-in-training secret and he got physical with her (the thrill!). Juliette and Daniel spent some time together doing spy craft, and she helped gather information for his case, including the biggest clue.
There wasn't much of a mystery. Daniel's supposed to be a clever detective, but he overlooked several potential suspects. He spent a lot of time distracted so he delayed reading the collected evidence, including the Big Clue. Things weren't particularly difficult to figure out, from whodunit to who that pushy widow was to why Juliette's best friend's fiancé didn't like Daniel. Though that last might be simple only because I read too many novels. I suspected whodunit from the moment we met that person, who kept on acting suspicious until the Big Clue pointed Daniel in the right direction.
Historical details were woven into the story. Some aspects were highly researched, but there were also little things that weren't right for the time period, like Daniel being called a detective before the word was even invented.
The Christian element was that Daniel felt abandoned by his father and therefore felt God must have abandoned him, too. A friend pointed out how God had taken care of him and why it's not reasonable to judge God by a human father's behavior. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The story seemed mostly about Juliette falling in love, helped along by Daniel finding reasons to hold her closely and his giving her a deep, passionate kiss. While I liked them both, I don't understand why she's so attracted to him over the kind, supportive German noble. She mainly seemed drawn to Daniel because he knew her spy-in-training secret and he got physical with her (the thrill!). Juliette and Daniel spent some time together doing spy craft, and she helped gather information for his case, including the biggest clue.
There wasn't much of a mystery. Daniel's supposed to be a clever detective, but he overlooked several potential suspects. He spent a lot of time distracted so he delayed reading the collected evidence, including the Big Clue. Things weren't particularly difficult to figure out, from whodunit to who that pushy widow was to why Juliette's best friend's fiancé didn't like Daniel. Though that last might be simple only because I read too many novels. I suspected whodunit from the moment we met that person, who kept on acting suspicious until the Big Clue pointed Daniel in the right direction.
Historical details were woven into the story. Some aspects were highly researched, but there were also little things that weren't right for the time period, like Daniel being called a detective before the word was even invented.
The Christian element was that Daniel felt abandoned by his father and therefore felt God must have abandoned him, too. A friend pointed out how God had taken care of him and why it's not reasonable to judge God by a human father's behavior. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable novel.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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