Another intriguing mystery from Penrose.

Murder at the Serpentine Bridge (Wrexford and Sloane Mystery #6) by Andrea Penrose      

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Prototypes and plans for multi shot long guns, and the threat of nations outjockeying each other in their pursuit for dominance, dog the steps in this latest tale of Wrexford and Charlotte. Threads throughout the investigation all point to a treasonous government insider being part of a plot of stolen prototypes, and a secret bidding war being conducted for interested parties. The ruthless Lord Grentham sits at the center of it all trying to curtail the reach of friends who might be enemies. He demands Wrexham’s assistance, using the tactics of blackmail, with veiled references hinting at exposing Charlotte’s activities as A.J. Quill, one of London’s most famous satirical artists. But is it smoke and mirrors? Charlotte and Wrexford can’t take the chance.

The man who invented the gun action, Jeremiah Wilson has been found dead, fallen into the Serpentine. Murder or an accident? 

Coincidentally, they are attend a family house party at the Belmont estate. The Belmonts’s are relatives by marriage to Charlotte’s brother.

The weasels have a new friend Peregrine, or Falcon as they call him. In reality he’s Lord Lampson, a title he’s inherited much to his uncle’s disgust. The uncle, Thurston Belmont, a diplomat, sees a tainted line. Charlotte sees a young talented boy whose becoming fast friends with her peculiar lot. 

Wrexford has been strong armed by Pierson into assisting with the Governement inquiry. What he doesn’t reckon on is how this will effect all members of his vey different family.

A twisted tale of acceptance, diversity and state secrets gone awry.

A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.                                              

Many thanks to the author and publisher.