Emerald Embrace-Shannon Drake

Emerald Embrace
Shannon Drake
Medallion, Feb 1 2010, $7.95
ISBN: 9781605420820

In 1865, upon learning of the death of her friend Mary, Lady Creeghan, Martise St. James travels from war torn Virginia to Scotland on a mission. She plans to investigate Mary’s death and search for the St. James emerald that she sent to her late friend for safekeeping while the Civil War had marauders from both sides stealing from civilians.

To obtain entrance to Castle Creeghan in the Highlands, she informs the widower Lord Bruce Creeghan that she is Mary's sister. Although she believes her host killed his wife, Martise finds she desires him. As she investigates the castle’s secrets, Martise learns that most inside the keep believe murder occurred and the laird is the suspect. Although they fall in love in between arguments, he vows never again will someone he cares for be a victim while she fears being victim number two.

With engaging illustrations by Yevgeniya Yeretskaya that enhance the strong gothic plot, fans will enjoy this entertaining historical romantic suspense. The lead couple is a terrific pairing of a brave amateur sleuth and the prime suspect as she tries serendipitously to investigate the murder and the missing emerald while he tries to keep her safe. With a strong support cast, readers will relish this solid Victorian era romantic whodunit romance.

Harriet Klausner