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mamap's review against another edition
3.0
In the era of Queen Victoria - a young lady in service takes a risk to take someone's identity and become a cook in the Queen's kitchen,
It's a murder mystery. An interesting read. Good for a summer.
It's a murder mystery. An interesting read. Good for a summer.
jennchandler's review against another edition
4.0
3.5 stars. This was a good, quick read. But everything ended a little too easily for me. Everything just fell into place at the end, which was fine, but not terribly interesting.
redcabinreads's review against another edition
3.0
Overall, I enjoyed this book and got into the story quickly. I’m only rating it 2.5 stars though because I felt like the plot didn’t even start until 80% through the book and there was very little character development. The end felt -very- rushed. I thought there might be a second book based on the fact that so much had to be crammed into the last 5%... but alas, it was squished in there. Lots of potential that didn’t deliver for me!
*2.5 stars
*2.5 stars
rebecanunez's review against another edition
3.0
"Above the Bay of Angels" by Rhys Bowen is a captivating historical novel that immerses readers in the world of 19th-century England, blending elements of mystery, romance, and historical intrigue. The novel unfolds against the backdrop of Queen Victoria's royal court, taking readers on a journey through the opulent settings of the era.
The protagonist, Isabella Waverly, finds herself thrust into an unexpected role as a housemaid in the royal household at Buckingham Palace. Isabella's journey is marked by her wit, intelligence, and determination to rise above her station in life. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that explores the societal constraints of the time, emphasizing the stark divisions between classes.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to transport readers to another era, rich in historical detail and atmosphere. Bowen's meticulous research shines through, providing authenticity to the setting and characters. The descriptions of the lavish royal court, the struggles of the lower classes, and the intricate dynamics of the household contribute to the immersive quality of the storytelling.
As the plot unfolds, a mysterious death occurs within the palace, introducing an element of suspense and intrigue. Isabella's quest for the truth adds layers of complexity to the narrative, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the secrets hidden behind the palace walls.
The characters are well-drawn and evolve throughout the story, offering readers a chance to connect with their struggles and triumphs. Isabella's journey from a lowly housemaid to a woman challenging societal norms is particularly compelling, adding a feminist undertone to the narrative.
Bowen's writing style is fluid and evocative, capturing the essence of the time period while maintaining a sense of accessibility for contemporary readers. The pacing keeps the story moving forward, balancing moments of tension with quieter, introspective scenes.
In conclusion, "Above the Bay of Angels" is a delightful historical novel that seamlessly blends mystery and romance against the lavish backdrop of Victorian England. Rhys Bowen's storytelling prowess shines through, offering readers an engaging and immersive experience that will appeal to fans of historical fiction.
The protagonist, Isabella Waverly, finds herself thrust into an unexpected role as a housemaid in the royal household at Buckingham Palace. Isabella's journey is marked by her wit, intelligence, and determination to rise above her station in life. The author skillfully weaves a narrative that explores the societal constraints of the time, emphasizing the stark divisions between classes.
The novel's strength lies in its ability to transport readers to another era, rich in historical detail and atmosphere. Bowen's meticulous research shines through, providing authenticity to the setting and characters. The descriptions of the lavish royal court, the struggles of the lower classes, and the intricate dynamics of the household contribute to the immersive quality of the storytelling.
As the plot unfolds, a mysterious death occurs within the palace, introducing an element of suspense and intrigue. Isabella's quest for the truth adds layers of complexity to the narrative, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the secrets hidden behind the palace walls.
The characters are well-drawn and evolve throughout the story, offering readers a chance to connect with their struggles and triumphs. Isabella's journey from a lowly housemaid to a woman challenging societal norms is particularly compelling, adding a feminist undertone to the narrative.
Bowen's writing style is fluid and evocative, capturing the essence of the time period while maintaining a sense of accessibility for contemporary readers. The pacing keeps the story moving forward, balancing moments of tension with quieter, introspective scenes.
In conclusion, "Above the Bay of Angels" is a delightful historical novel that seamlessly blends mystery and romance against the lavish backdrop of Victorian England. Rhys Bowen's storytelling prowess shines through, offering readers an engaging and immersive experience that will appeal to fans of historical fiction.
jennie_cole's review against another edition
4.0
Above the Bay of Angels is the story of Bella during the late 1800s. Bella is the daughter of a gentleman whose parents have lost status and later died causing her to go into service in order to take care of herself and her younger sister. While in service she discovered a love of cooking. One day an opportunity comes her way and she finds herself working for the Queen under the name Helen Barton.
The story is very much about finding ones own desires and staying true to your real self. There is also a large amount of the book about cultural differences and finding common ground. While the book description teases a murder mystery that only occurs at about 80% of the way through the book and then resolves itself fairly quickly.
I enjoyed this book and read it within a few days. If you like historical fiction with real life persons pick this one up and give it a read.
The story is very much about finding ones own desires and staying true to your real self. There is also a large amount of the book about cultural differences and finding common ground. While the book description teases a murder mystery that only occurs at about 80% of the way through the book and then resolves itself fairly quickly.
I enjoyed this book and read it within a few days. If you like historical fiction with real life persons pick this one up and give it a read.
jennchandler's review against another edition
4.0
3.5 stars. This was a good, quick read. But everything ended a little too easily for me. Everything just fell into place at the end, which was fine, but not terribly interesting.
jillccox's review against another edition
5.0
Above the Bay of Angels is comfort reading. It is a cozy mystery set in Victorian England, but what I enjoyed most was the story of how Bella learns who she is, what she wants, and how to go for it.
I love Rhys Bowen. She is one of my all-time favorite authors. It was a light, fun right read with mystery and relatable characters- her specialties.
I love Rhys Bowen. She is one of my all-time favorite authors. It was a light, fun right read with mystery and relatable characters- her specialties.