IN WANT OF A SUSPECT

Solicitors Lizzie and Darcy team up in another Austen-flavored mystery.

Jack Mullins, co-owner of a wool storehouse in London, was Lizzie’s first client; three years later, he hires her again. Accompanied by Darcy, Lizzie intends to meet Jack at the storehouse, but upon arrival they find Jack distraught, and the building engulfed in flames. Jack, whose brother dies in the fire, insists that a young woman he spotted on the premises is responsible. Although his story isn’t entirely convincing, Lizzie agrees to investigate. Her leads include both impoverished French refugees and two privileged young women with ties to the country: Leticia Cavendish, who was raised in France, and Josette Beaufort, her half-French cousin, who once turned down Darcy’s proposal of marriage. Unable to confirm puzzling accounts of the Mullinses’ business dealings, Lizzie enlists the Dashwood sisters to help her search the storehouse at night. What they find only adds to the mystery—as does Darcy’s absence. Lizzie sought his help, yet he never showed up. This volume positions Lizzie and Darcy, sturdy survivors of many retellings, as well-chosen protagonists in central roles. While Mr. Bingley and the Dashwoods turn up (and Miss Woodhouse makes a cameo appearance), new characters streamline the action by freeing up creative space in which the intriguing mystery can briskly unfold. Major characters present white.

A treat for fans of Regency tales and stories inspired by classics.