cover image BLOOD FOR BLOOD

BLOOD FOR BLOOD

S. K. Rizzolo, . . Poisoned Pen, $24.95 (250pp) ISBN 978-1-59058-054-7

In this engrossing sequel to Rizzolo's well-received Regency debut, The Rose in the Wheel (2002), John Chase, a Bow Street Runner (a pre-Victorian constable), and Penelope Wolfe, his accomplished assistant, investigate the fatal stabbing of a footman. Found in the back garden of the luxurious London home where Wolfe is serving as a lady's companion, the victim uses his last breath to quote an apocalyptic passage from the biblical Book of Joel. Rumors that the footman led a double life enmesh the pair in political intrigue surrounding the rise of the Luddite movement and the concomitant weakening of the Crown in the face of increasing class conflict and economic hardship. This tense atmosphere is only exacerbated by the cult surrounding pregnant Rebecca Barnwell, a self-proclaimed prophetess, whose followers believe is bearing the Messiah, and who has shown a mysterious interest in the servant's murder. The different circles in which Chase and Wolfe move afford Rizzolo an opportunity to depict the disparities in London society of 1812, and she makes the most of it. Engaging and three-dimensional lead characters match her evocative place descriptions. The killer's motivation may be a little underdeveloped, but that doesn't detract from a thoroughly entertaining effort that deserves many sequels. (May 22)