Set in 1895, I liked Rose very much. She calls herself a lady investigator and although she enjoys a relationship with Jack Macmerry, in her heart she stays true to Danny McQuinn, her husband missing in Arizona. It in part explains her friendship with Auld Rory, old soldier and gentleman of the road., seeking his missing son presumed dead. Unable to accept Jack's proposal, Rose has thrown Nancy, a relative of their family's housekeeper Mrs Brook, in Jack's path. This ploy has worked rather too well as Nancy is in love with Jack, who in turn seems to be taking a great delight in her company, much to the confusion of Rose, who is now not quite sure what she feels about this.

Although, Jack provides a list of missing females, which Rose investigates, she is soon chasing a different avenue of enquiry. But there are surprises in store.

Written with sensitivity and a convincing knowledge of the era, I look forward to reading more of Rose McQuinn.
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Lizzie Hayes
This is the second in the Rose McQuinn series. The first book is entitled The Inspector's Daughter.