A nicely convoluted mystery, with a good assortment of suspects and plausible motives. The Regency setting also continues to be enjoyable, with lots of interesting historical details.

The readers don't get to see as much of th Bow Street officers this time around, and I rather missed them. I also find myself wondering if the social strictures of the historical period will allow Rosamund to get her happily ever after.

I picked up this book, with the total understanding it was the sixth in a series but you know what, I'll read anything. My biggest trouble with this book was the writing style. For me personally, it was difficult to read. I slogged through but nothing about this book stuck with me.

This is the newest entry in the Useful Woman series, featuring Rosalind Thorne, who helps society families in Regency England. Rosalind is invited to the home of a former acquaintance, Bethany Douglas, now married to a wealthy man, who is set to inherit from his uncle. The Douglas household also includes Bethany's two sisters (one disgraced) and challenging parents. Rosalind is supposed to help Bethany's sister-in-law with her entree into London society, and also is tasked with finding some very valuable stolen pearls. There are lots of family secrets and eventually a murder to solve. Rosalind is assisted by her maid, Amelia, roommate and friend Alice, and Adam Harkness of Bow Street, for whom she has growing feelings. I really enjoy this series and look forward to the next book.

Still enjoying these books about a “useful” woman staying in society by helping other ladies out.

The Secret of the Lost Pearls is a wonderful historical mystery, and part of a series featuring Rosalind Thorne.

Rosalind is contacted by her old friend Bethany to find her missing pearls, and, as a cover, to help guide her younger sister-in-law Penelope through her first Season.

Bethany's husband Douglas has recently been named the heir of his uncle, Sir Jasper, which has caused friction in their marriage. They also are struggling over what to do about Bethany's sister Nora, who had run away with Douglas's former friend, Bryan Cantrell. Nora came back home and told them Cantrell is dead, but she still is somewhat in disgrace because she eloped with him. Their third sister, Mariah, and her mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Hodgeson, also live with them.

When Cantrell shows up and threatens their family with social ruin, Rosalind needs to figure out who is his confederate in the house and what hold he has on each member of the family. Is the theft of the pearls related to Cantrell's return? Or did a servant get greedy and want out of service?

There also is a love story, with Rosalind spending time with Adam Harkness, a Bow Street runner. Rosalind and Adam's love story adds some sweetness to the story.

This mystery is intricate, which makes for enjoyable reading. This book will keep you up reading long into the night. Thanks to the publishers for an advanced reader's copy!

ACAB except Adam Harkness