Friday, January 23, 2009

The River Knows

The River Knows by Amanda Quick (2007)

Pages: 355

ISBN: 9780515144369

Description: The first kiss occurred in a dimly lit hallway on the upper floor of Elwin Hasting's grand house Louisa never saw it coming...

Of Course, Anthony Stalbridge couldn't possibly have had romantic intentions. The kiss was an act of desperation, meant to distract the armed guard who was about to catch the pair in a place they most definitely did not belong. After all, in her dull maroon gown and gold rimmed spectacles, Louisa Bryce was no man's idea of an alluring female. Clearly, the only thing a catch like Anthony Stalbridge had in common with a wallflower like Louisa was passionate interest in the private affairs of Mr. Hastings-a prominent member of Society whom they both suspect of hiding terrible secrets. Now, thrown into each other's arms by their ruse, Anthony and Louisa are united in their efforts to find the truth.

Each has a personal reason for the quest. Months earlier, Anthony's fiancee threw herself in the Thames-or at least, that is the version whispered in London's social circles. Anthony believes someone else may have had a hand in her death and a murderous one at that. Louisa, whose own identity is shrouded in layers of mystery, is convinced that Hastings has a connection to a notorious brothel. When Anthony successfully cracks Hasting's hidden safe and discovers highly incriminating evidence it appears that both their instincts were correct.

But Hastings is hiding for more than jewels and ledger books. Bringing him to justice will be more perilous than Louisa and Anthony anticipate-and their partnership will be more heated than either expects. For the two share a thrilling attraction to danger, and it is not only Anthony's curiosity that Louisa arouses.

Review: Louisa Bryce has a secret that no one can know. When she meets up with Anthony Stalbridge, she is in the midst of an investigation to one of London's most popular gentleman. The two meet in a most interesting way. They are caught in a place where they are not to be and to help each other, they kiss. From that moment on they become partners in an investigation that will change their lives forever.

A somewhat dark, but nonetheless enjoyable story. The characters were great and really fleshed out. I enjoyed the mystery that threw Louisa and Anthony together. The side characters were interesting as well. A most enjoyable story that fans a those new to Quick will enjoy.

Score: 4 out of 5

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