From the publisher:
In glittering Newport, Rhode Island, status is everything. But despite being a poorer relation to the venerable Vanderbilts, Emma Cross has shaped her own identity—as a reporter and a sleuth.
As the nineteenth century draws to a close, Fancies and Fashion reporter Emma Cross is sent by the Newport Observer to cover an elite house party at Rough Point, a “cottage” owned by her distant cousin Frederick Vanderbilt that has been rented as an artist retreat. To her surprise, the illustrious guests include her estranged Bohemian parents—recently returned from Europe—as well as a variety of notable artists, including author Edith Wharton.
But when one of the artists is discovered dead at the bottom of a cliff, Rough Point becomes anything but a house of mirth. After a second murder, no one is above suspicion—including Emma’s parents. As Newport police detective Jesse Whyte searches for a killer, Emma tries to draw her own conclusions—with the help of Mrs. Wharton. But with so many sketchy suspects, she’ll need to canvas the crime scenes carefully, before the cunning culprit takes her out of the picture next . . .
My review:
Excited and relieved to have an assignment promising nothing in the way of danger, Emma is distressed when a missing artist is found dead. Maxwell does a good job of portraying artists who are as diversified in their crafts as they are in personalities, thus creating an interesting mix of characters.
She also does an admirable job with descriptions in “Murder at Rough Point.” The descriptions bring the Vanderbilt home and the characters within it to life. The dialogue is realistic with lively conversations, which helps to keep the storyline appealing. The plot is well-written with several twists leading up to a suspenseful conclusion. Altogether, this is an enjoyable and entertaining series.
FTC Full Disclosure: A review copy of this book was provided by its publisher.
