Murder at Fontainebleau (Elizabethan Mysteries #5) by Amanda Carmack

If you like historical settings you are going love Murder at Fontainebleau (Elizabethan Mysteries #5) by Amanda Carmack. I was so excited to see this in my reading stack. You may recall how much I loved part four, and I am happy to report this part, which released yesterday, is just as amazing.

From the back of the book:

In the latest Elizabethan mystery by the author of Murder at Whitehall, amateur sleuth Kate Haywood investigates deadly machinations unfolding behind the scenes in the magnificent French court.

1561. Queen Elizabeth’s throne is threatened as Mary Queen of Scots—pushed in every direction by opposing and powerful forces—declares herself the rightful Queen of England. To discover her rival’s next unpredictable move, Elizabeth dispatches a party of trustworthy intimates to Mary’s court at Fontainebleau. Chief among them is Kate Haywood, who finds that the glittering balls and genial banquets conceal a web of poisonous ambition that soon turns deadly.

When a beautiful and disruptively flirtatious member of the visiting party is murdered, Kate suspects that the man who stands accused has been set up to discredit Elizabeth. She vows to find the real killer, but the French court is a labyrinth unlike any she has ever navigated before—and at every turn there are more traps set to spring.

My thoughts:

For me this was a true trip back in time. The description was so beautifully done that I was able to immerse myself into the time without it interrupting the fantastic story. I have always loved the court setting so this was an extra special treat. The characters are wonderful, Kate especially. The amount of growth she continues to have is really fabulous.

The mystery was wonderful and I admire the amount of effort that must have went into writing something like this, setting in a real place and time. I love this series and look forward to more. If this is your first you can jump in here but I recommend you read them all, they are all something extra special.

Take some time to browse the other great mysteries available from Berkley Prime Crime. While you are there, you can sign up for the newsletter so you never miss a new release. I must warn you though, after browsing my wish list is longer than I could probably read. You can also connect with them on Twitter where you can happen across a fun giveaway as well. 

Disclosure: I may receive products in exchange for an honest review. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I personally believe will be good for my readers.