We return to the Reekie family. This time in London and 21 years from where we last encountered them. And while the last installment was more of romance mixed with family drama, this one is much more old English soap opera. A new character, Rob’s supposed widow, is added in this sequel. And with her comes the cunning deception of any quintessential, duplicitous soap opera villain.... twisty, dark, misdirected, and far more interesting than honest. One thing that remains the same is the deep stubborn streak holding strong in both Reekie women. Is this stubbornness a matter of self preservation or if stupidity? It’s often hard to tell. 

I was pleased that this story takes place after the political strife which bogged down the previous book. Unfortunately it was replaced by Ned’s troubles in the New World. You learn of Ned living amongst the English and yet befriending the local “savage” natives. To me, this storyline had no place in the novel.  Aside from the fact that Ned is Alinor’s brother, these read as two completely separate entities. 

While I rooted for Alinor in the previous book, I wasn’t as strongly connected to any character in this book. I missed Alinor’s strong sense and charm, as she was mostly absent from this book. Overall, the story is fine.  But after the ending of the previous book, I had hoped for more than fine. 

Thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.