Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Lord Petteril Mysteries #5
Publication Date: 4/25/24
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 171

Do you remember Lord Petteril’s snobbish, privileged, rakeish cousin – Major Albert (Bertie) Withan? Well, he’s missing – in Lisbon, Portugal and Petteril and April have gone to find him. Of course, they have to pose as man and wife so they can travel together – and we all know how well those sorts of things work out don’t we? 😊

Bertie arrived in Lisbon on time, but never made it to his regiment on the front lines. Bertie may not be Petteril’s favorite relative, but he’s still a relative and needs to be found. The Portuguese and military authorities have done little to locate him. Petteril takes on the identity of a minor government clerk sent to Lisbon to discover the major’s location because the Major’s rich and powerful cousin is making waves. As a lowly, unassuming clerk Petteril can ask more questions of more people than he could as a Viscount. Bertie made several significant acquaintances and conquests in his short time in the city. Is he in hiding somewhere? Is he lying dead somewhere?

While this book has an excellent mystery, it also continues the blossoming romance between Petteril and April. From the title, I had hoped we’d have a wedding, but – not yet. I’m hoping for the next book. I really like both characters whose quirky characters perfectly match.

If you are looking for a quick, fun, interesting read with a nice mystery, grab a cup of tea and your favorite reading chair and enjoy this book.