Murder Most Unladylike (#1) - Robin Stevens
This came up while I was looking for a book to fill the hole left by finishing the Scarlet & Ivy series. I don't know if this quite lived up to what I thought it would be, but it was certainly enjoyable. I'm usually pretty good at guessing 'who dun it', but this one kept me guessing!
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars. This felt more complex than Scarlet & Ivy, but slightly less entrancing.
Age Suggestion: 10+. There are definitely some old fashioned ideas that may need some explaining, lots of 'bosoms' etc.
Ability Range: 10+. There are a lot of old-fashioned words in this novel - although there is a glossary containing most of them. It's certainly a great option though if you have students/children who are interested in books set in that time period, given that it provides definition.
Content Notes: The author has seemed to try to write in keeping with the time period - however it does mean that Asians are referred to as 'Orientals', and a few snide comments about women. Also, Daisy is a horrible fiend to Hazel. This does relate closely to the dynamics in Scarlet & Ivy (I don't mean to keep comparing them but I read them so closely together!), without the twin component that seemed to make more sense.
I am keen to keep on with the series, it will be interesting to see how the characters develop, as well as whether or not Robin Stevens is able to keep producing great mysteries!
Check it out yourself!