The Mystery Guest

I've not read the first in the "Molly the Maid" series, so I was unfamiliar with the main character and her prior adventures. It took me a bit of reading to realize that the main character is neuro-diverse. This discovery added to my enjoyment of the story as I appreciate novels which feature characters with "superpowers" which come from the unique way their minds work. I liked how the mystery in the present connected with Molly's past - and her relationship with her grandmother. It was a quick and enjoyable read with a mostly satisfying conclusion.

I read The Maid last year and there was admittedly a lot I didn't like about it. However, there was enough that I did like that I was interested in reading this next installment. I'm so glad I did!

Molly Gray finds herself entangled in another murder of a Regency Grand Hotel guest. Though not under immediate suspicion this time around, her trainee, Lily, is. Moreover, Molly had been acquainted with this guest, a renowned author, in her youth. Going back and forth from then and now, Molly aids in catching the killer.

I was super into the ‘before' part of the story. I loved getting to see more scenes between Molly and Gran and particularly seeing Molly as a child. Everything tied in nicely as well. The present part of the story didn't captivate me quite as much until near the end. I enjoyed the reading experience much more this time, which tends to be the case in series for me anyway. I'm officially hooked and look forward to any future installments!

A huge thanks to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC of the book!