4.5 stars

This was super cozy and light for being about a family of undertakers. Everything that didn’t work for me in the first book was present in this second one, but it was in much better balance here.

The mystery was solid and well paced, the side characters added to the plot and the paranormal element -though used lightly- drove the plot forward and was a source of clues for solving the mystery.
There was detective work, interesting Victorian elements, an original setting (Australia 1890), a great concept, a very heartwarming family dynamic, humour and lots of romantic pining.
Not full stars because of some clunkiness to the writing and weird redundant phrasing that tripped me up a bit.
Now I want to read the next in the series and see if the two romances develop further. Such a light but engaging book.

TW death of a child 20 years prior to start of book.5-stars-highly-recommend historical mystery43 s Book Buddies696 15

There is something so uniquely entertaining about this series, I'm truly delighted with each installment.

I love this family and their interactions, their very slow burn romances and all of the other side characters thrown in that make for a light read with a satisfying feeling when you close the cover. I certainly wish there were more in the series.

I highly recommend you don't miss this series. You'll want to read them in order to completely understand the interpersonal relationships.buddy-read1 3 comments ML Carver49

Family, friends, humor & plot twists

In this book, the second in the series, I just savored all of the characters, the plot twists, and the descriptions of social life in Australia in the 1890s. I love the Astin family at the center of the story. I love the directions that the relationships between many friends are taking and the unexpected plot twists. I look forward to the next one and hope there will be many more to come. Great read. Geoeng5163 3

A fun story

I quite d this story, mixing a good tale with some historical veracity. I was especially fond of the machinations of the young women, in trying to line up various couples, although the glacial pace of some of the developing relationships was most frustrating. I did want to cheer them on, though. Denise R18 1 follower

Such good fun with interesting action

I have enjoyed this author very much. The interaction of the characters is realistic and believable. The story weaves several strings together to keep things moving as well as holding your attention. Becky703 22

Not the best of writing, but still enjoyable. Unique theme with a cast of interesting characters and fascinating plots inspired by true cases. Stronger threads of brewing romances than in most of the historical romances I choose to read.historical-mystery historical-romance Mickey Noel678 4

A wonderful story!

Though this is written as a formal dialogue, and with very old fashioned values, I found this to be an entertaining read. The characters are unique and clever, some with unusual talents. I look forward to more in this series. KELLY A JACK353 2

The Fake Child
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