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Lady Evelyn Mystery #2
A Darker Shore
1926: A year has passed since the events of "A Poisonous Journey" and Lady Evelyn has made a home for herself in Greece, living with her cousin, Briony, her husband, Jeffrey and Daniel Harper. Disturbing this island idyll is a letter, which arrives from France with troubling information about the Daniel’s long-believed-dead brother, Henry. A new journey awaits! With the shadows of the Great War reaching out, Lady Evelyn and Daniel voyage to Amiens in Northern France with the aim of discovering the truth behind the ominous letter. Upon their arrival, they are met not with clarity but rather with crime. Murder, to be precise. Is it linked to their presence in France, or even worse, to Henry himself? Evelyn and Daniel must confront their history as they try to make sense of the present before the killer can strike again, and the secrets of the past are lost forever.
383 pages, Paperback
First published December 13, 2016
About the author
Malia Zaidi
7 books631 followersHello and thanks for stopping by!
I am the author of the Lady Evelyn Mystery series and an avid reader, always happy to discover new books to add to my toppling pile:-)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 23, 2020
4.5 stars! A Darker Shore is the second book in 'The Lady Evelyn Mysteries' written by Malia Zaidi. I was first introduced to this series through the author's blog last year. I followed for months, then decided to read the first book. I added the rest to my TBR, and when I saw the latest one available on NetGalley, I quickly purchased the middles ones so that I could catch up. The books are part historical fiction, part mystery, but more a study of life nearly one century ago on a different continent. It filled a lot of the check marks on things I like in books, which meant I was bound to enjoy the series... and enjoy it, I do!
In this caper, Lady Evelyn is living in Crete with her cousin, debating when to return to England to deal with everything she left behind earlier that year when the first book / murder took place. She and Daniel have continued dating, but Evelyn isn't sure if he's the right man for her. It's 1926, and there are a lot of changes occurring for women in that part of the century. Luckily, Daniel is a very modern-thinking man, so she can rely on him to help her figure out what she wants. Then he gets a letter that one of his two brothers might not have died in France during the war. They decide to travel together to Amiens to search for his kin, and along the way, they discover the woman who told them Daniel's brother might still be alive, has died. It appears like a suicide, but once the facts come out, it's ruled a murder. Was it a neighbor? A friend in her church group? One of several family members with secrets worth keeping?
Zaidi transports you to another place and another time in this series. From the apropos use of language to the general approach and attitudes about life, you will feel the weight of a remarkable woman heavily tugging at your heart and mind. The war was horrific, and we see how it continues to impact several people nearly ten years later. Daniel must find out the truth, and Zaidi clearly shows us why he is so distraught and hopeful. Balanced equally well is Evelyn's desire to find herself not through being Daniel's girlfriend, but by being his equal on all levels.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters, some evil and some generous... but we don't know which one might be lying to poor Evelyn. She's generally a good judge of others, but this killer has a lot of history that (s)he can't let go of with the victim. Seeing the painful choices made throughout the main characters' lives, we understand why the murder happened. We may not like it, but it's necessary. What's even more compelling is that we never had a chance to meet the victim. Zaidi has shown us who she was through the memories of all the people surrounding her. What a fun way to unravel a mystery. I can't wait to dive into the third book, which is on my schedule for the last week of April.
In this caper, Lady Evelyn is living in Crete with her cousin, debating when to return to England to deal with everything she left behind earlier that year when the first book / murder took place. She and Daniel have continued dating, but Evelyn isn't sure if he's the right man for her. It's 1926, and there are a lot of changes occurring for women in that part of the century. Luckily, Daniel is a very modern-thinking man, so she can rely on him to help her figure out what she wants. Then he gets a letter that one of his two brothers might not have died in France during the war. They decide to travel together to Amiens to search for his kin, and along the way, they discover the woman who told them Daniel's brother might still be alive, has died. It appears like a suicide, but once the facts come out, it's ruled a murder. Was it a neighbor? A friend in her church group? One of several family members with secrets worth keeping?
Zaidi transports you to another place and another time in this series. From the apropos use of language to the general approach and attitudes about life, you will feel the weight of a remarkable woman heavily tugging at your heart and mind. The war was horrific, and we see how it continues to impact several people nearly ten years later. Daniel must find out the truth, and Zaidi clearly shows us why he is so distraught and hopeful. Balanced equally well is Evelyn's desire to find herself not through being Daniel's girlfriend, but by being his equal on all levels.
I enjoyed meeting all the characters, some evil and some generous... but we don't know which one might be lying to poor Evelyn. She's generally a good judge of others, but this killer has a lot of history that (s)he can't let go of with the victim. Seeing the painful choices made throughout the main characters' lives, we understand why the murder happened. We may not like it, but it's necessary. What's even more compelling is that we never had a chance to meet the victim. Zaidi has shown us who she was through the memories of all the people surrounding her. What a fun way to unravel a mystery. I can't wait to dive into the third book, which is on my schedule for the last week of April.
February 10, 2017
There is something very special about "The Lady Evelyn Mystery Series".
Malia Zaidi released her debut novel called, "A Poisonous Journey", in 2015. It was
wonderful!
In "A Darker Shore", both books historical mystery crime novels, Malia immediately makes us feel at home with the characters. The dialogue is intimate and we feel like we are in the room with them.
This story begins on the island of Crete. The year is 1926. The images are as lovely as you can image.
Lady Evelyn Carlisle and her cousin Briony are as close as sisters. Briony and her husband, Jeffrey have 3 children they adopted. Evelyn has been part of their lives for a year. She also met a man named Daniel on the island.
It's fair to call Lady Evelyn and Daniel a couple - but they aren't married, when he asks her to travel to France with him. He received a letter from a woman saying she spotted his brother alive.
Daniels brother, Henry, was presumed dead eight years ago in the battle of Pozieres - Northern France - in 1916 - a stage of great conflict, the Battle of the Somme. "The casualties were horrendous.
Lady Evelyn is nervous about the journey. She's a little worried not to have the diversion of her best friend in the world- Briony - and the comfort of the island.
She's worried about being compatible with Daniel in the real world. Briony reminds Evelyn that Crete is the real world. Not too long ago Evie stumbled on a murder in her little garden
-of-Eden. Plus.. Evelyn doesn't trust that Henry is really alive. She hates to see Daniel's hopes get crushed. And what if Henry is alive but lost his mind?
Lady Evelyn stumbles upon 'another' murder while on their search for Daniel. Her worried plate is now 'really' over-flowing. But this woman is a unflinchingly resilient. She's sharp, tactful, shows empathy, is likable, and powerful.
There are unique characters-lovely descriptions....aromas of coffee and baked bread, crepes, gorgeous visuals of high-ceiling rooms, sprouting water from fountains, cathedrals, gargoyles, stables, stone walls, quiet rivers, thunderstorms, restlessness, and stillness. ....WONDERFUL escape reading!!!! WONDERFUL WRITING!!!!
Toasty-cozy-intimate mystery storytelling!!!!
**Many people in the Goodreads community know lovely *Malia Zaidi*. If you don't yet, introduced yourself!!!!
Congrats Malia!!!! I love this story & characters as much as your first book. As soon as I noticed you had this book released - I jumped on it... sooo HAPPY I did!!!!! xo
Malia Zaidi released her debut novel called, "A Poisonous Journey", in 2015. It was
wonderful!
In "A Darker Shore", both books historical mystery crime novels, Malia immediately makes us feel at home with the characters. The dialogue is intimate and we feel like we are in the room with them.
This story begins on the island of Crete. The year is 1926. The images are as lovely as you can image.
Lady Evelyn Carlisle and her cousin Briony are as close as sisters. Briony and her husband, Jeffrey have 3 children they adopted. Evelyn has been part of their lives for a year. She also met a man named Daniel on the island.
It's fair to call Lady Evelyn and Daniel a couple - but they aren't married, when he asks her to travel to France with him. He received a letter from a woman saying she spotted his brother alive.
Daniels brother, Henry, was presumed dead eight years ago in the battle of Pozieres - Northern France - in 1916 - a stage of great conflict, the Battle of the Somme. "The casualties were horrendous.
Lady Evelyn is nervous about the journey. She's a little worried not to have the diversion of her best friend in the world- Briony - and the comfort of the island.
She's worried about being compatible with Daniel in the real world. Briony reminds Evelyn that Crete is the real world. Not too long ago Evie stumbled on a murder in her little garden
-of-Eden. Plus.. Evelyn doesn't trust that Henry is really alive. She hates to see Daniel's hopes get crushed. And what if Henry is alive but lost his mind?
Lady Evelyn stumbles upon 'another' murder while on their search for Daniel. Her worried plate is now 'really' over-flowing. But this woman is a unflinchingly resilient. She's sharp, tactful, shows empathy, is likable, and powerful.
There are unique characters-lovely descriptions....aromas of coffee and baked bread, crepes, gorgeous visuals of high-ceiling rooms, sprouting water from fountains, cathedrals, gargoyles, stables, stone walls, quiet rivers, thunderstorms, restlessness, and stillness. ....WONDERFUL escape reading!!!! WONDERFUL WRITING!!!!
Toasty-cozy-intimate mystery storytelling!!!!
**Many people in the Goodreads community know lovely *Malia Zaidi*. If you don't yet, introduced yourself!!!!
Congrats Malia!!!! I love this story & characters as much as your first book. As soon as I noticed you had this book released - I jumped on it... sooo HAPPY I did!!!!! xo
June 14, 2017
I might be a little biased...
July 22, 2022
This second book in the Lady Evelyn Mysteries series was more enjoyable, to me, than the first. The mystery (actually, it turns out there are more than one but you’ll get no spoilers from me) is intriguing and the characters are well-defined and engaging. The story has clearly been well-researched and the setting really comes alive in Malia Zaidi’s hands.
I’d’ve given this 4 stars if it weren’t for the fact that, like its predecessor, I found the pacing more than a little glacial and the protagonists lengthy navel-gazing sessions (of which there is at least one in every chapter) a little excessive. I still enjoyed the book, despite its flaws, and will definitely be continuing with the series.
I’d’ve given this 4 stars if it weren’t for the fact that, like its predecessor, I found the pacing more than a little glacial and the protagonists lengthy navel-gazing sessions (of which there is at least one in every chapter) a little excessive. I still enjoyed the book, despite its flaws, and will definitely be continuing with the series.
May 21, 2017
The world of the 1920's era is a fascinating time and I enjoy when I come across a book/series that takes me there while at the same time providing an engaging story and a cunning mystery.
A Darker Shore is the second in the Lady Evelyn mystery series behind A Poisonous Journey. In a pinch, a reader could get by with skipping A Poisonous Journey, but I would caution against that since this very much felt like an ongoing story from the first one just with a new series of mysteries for Evelyn and Daniel to tackle.
A Darker Shore opens about a year after the events of the first book. The first book was engaging and I enjoyed it, but it was this one that made me connect deeply with the story and the characters. The story is told entirely first person point of view by Evelyn and so her thoughts and development is the deepest, but I found Daniel's story along with that a few others had me riveted. The author does a great job of sketching in the minor characters so they have a personality and backstory of their own.
The mystery was good and twisting though happily I worked out a few pieces before the reveals and even nailed the killer well before the end and why. That said, it didn't captivate me half as much as the personal struggles people encountered and had to work through. Post-war PTSD trauma, survivors' guilt, and grief were a strong thematic element, but at the same time, it was balanced with recovery, treatment, and family all fitting in the historical and social climate at the time in that part of the world. Good balance of historical with suspense and character plots.
I did have the urge to shake Evelyn until her teeth rattled the way she flutters back and forth in her head when it comes to Daniel and when it comes to her adult responsibilities back home that she was ignoring. She loves him, but she has cold feet. But, that was just a few moments. For the most part, I was thrilled to see she has grown up a great deal from the immature, stubborn woman of the first book who charged right into the middle of everything because she thought she knew best. She was out of her element completely in this one and it was good for her, I think, because then she saw herself and others in a way she hadn't before.
The mystery is solved along with a few other personal mysteries for side characters and the story ended on a high note. Evelyn's life still has more room for mysteries and I will happily take the journey with her.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Darker Shore is the second in the Lady Evelyn mystery series behind A Poisonous Journey. In a pinch, a reader could get by with skipping A Poisonous Journey, but I would caution against that since this very much felt like an ongoing story from the first one just with a new series of mysteries for Evelyn and Daniel to tackle.
A Darker Shore opens about a year after the events of the first book. The first book was engaging and I enjoyed it, but it was this one that made me connect deeply with the story and the characters. The story is told entirely first person point of view by Evelyn and so her thoughts and development is the deepest, but I found Daniel's story along with that a few others had me riveted. The author does a great job of sketching in the minor characters so they have a personality and backstory of their own.
The mystery was good and twisting though happily I worked out a few pieces before the reveals and even nailed the killer well before the end and why. That said, it didn't captivate me half as much as the personal struggles people encountered and had to work through. Post-war PTSD trauma, survivors' guilt, and grief were a strong thematic element, but at the same time, it was balanced with recovery, treatment, and family all fitting in the historical and social climate at the time in that part of the world. Good balance of historical with suspense and character plots.
I did have the urge to shake Evelyn until her teeth rattled the way she flutters back and forth in her head when it comes to Daniel and when it comes to her adult responsibilities back home that she was ignoring. She loves him, but she has cold feet. But, that was just a few moments. For the most part, I was thrilled to see she has grown up a great deal from the immature, stubborn woman of the first book who charged right into the middle of everything because she thought she knew best. She was out of her element completely in this one and it was good for her, I think, because then she saw herself and others in a way she hadn't before.
The mystery is solved along with a few other personal mysteries for side characters and the story ended on a high note. Evelyn's life still has more room for mysteries and I will happily take the journey with her.
My thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 28, 2017
I liked A Darker Shore: A Lady Evelyn Mystery, by Malia Zaidi, even better than the first book in the series. It once again features British heiress Lady Evelyn Carlisle, but the mystery in this book is far more than solving a murder. It deals with the lingering suffering of war, in this case World War I, with its staggering number of casualties.
The Battle of the Somme was the most gruesome battle of a brutal conflict, with over one million men wounded or killed. 0n the first day alone, the British lost 57,470 men. Of those 19, 240 died. It was a bloodbath that continued for months.
The story takes place ten years after the armistice was signed, but the war’s effects linger, particularly in the battlefield areas of France.
Evelyn’s friend Daniel, who lost two brothers in the war, gets a letter saying one of them is alive. Evelyn goes with him to find out whatever they can. If he’s alive, he may be so mentally damaged that he won’t recognize his brother.
But when they reach the letter-writer’s home, they find her murdered. That starts the mystery that ends up enveloping many in this small town, all of them suffering in one way or another from the war and its aftermath.
While Evelyn and Daniel work on the murder and the question of Henry, Daniel’s brother, they also learn about themselves and each other.
The title is accurate. The subject matter and tone of this book is not as light as in A Poisonous Journey, but then the subject matter would not allow it to be.
The Battle of the Somme was the most gruesome battle of a brutal conflict, with over one million men wounded or killed. 0n the first day alone, the British lost 57,470 men. Of those 19, 240 died. It was a bloodbath that continued for months.
The story takes place ten years after the armistice was signed, but the war’s effects linger, particularly in the battlefield areas of France.
Evelyn’s friend Daniel, who lost two brothers in the war, gets a letter saying one of them is alive. Evelyn goes with him to find out whatever they can. If he’s alive, he may be so mentally damaged that he won’t recognize his brother.
But when they reach the letter-writer’s home, they find her murdered. That starts the mystery that ends up enveloping many in this small town, all of them suffering in one way or another from the war and its aftermath.
While Evelyn and Daniel work on the murder and the question of Henry, Daniel’s brother, they also learn about themselves and each other.
The title is accurate. The subject matter and tone of this book is not as light as in A Poisonous Journey, but then the subject matter would not allow it to be.
January 1, 2017
A Darker Shore is the second Lady Evelyn Mystery book. Yet, it can be read as a stand alone novel. Having not read the first book I was ok jumping right into this one. Not having an established prior relationship with Evelyn was fine with me. I got to know her through this book. She is a sturdy lady. What I mean by this is that she is not easily the fainting type. She can handle herself in a situation.
This is a nice, cozy mystery. The time period is what first drew me to this book. It leaded itself nicely to the story. The author does paint a good picture of who Evelyn and her husband, Daniel are as a couple. As well as the country of France. What I struggled with is that the story moved slowly. So, slowly that I got about a third of the way into the story and had to take a break from it. I found myself reading the book with some lackluster after I picked it back up. I did jump ahead to a point but never felt like I missed anything by having done this. Despite, the story moving slowly; this was a cozy read.
This is a nice, cozy mystery. The time period is what first drew me to this book. It leaded itself nicely to the story. The author does paint a good picture of who Evelyn and her husband, Daniel are as a couple. As well as the country of France. What I struggled with is that the story moved slowly. So, slowly that I got about a third of the way into the story and had to take a break from it. I found myself reading the book with some lackluster after I picked it back up. I did jump ahead to a point but never felt like I missed anything by having done this. Despite, the story moving slowly; this was a cozy read.
December 9, 2016
MY THOUGHTS
MURDER!
Murder seems to follow Lady Evelyn everywhere she goes. Even though the plot is murder, the author gives the reader much to enjoy, that is entertaining and much to put the mind to work trying to solve the crime (crimes). The year is 1926, being a year since Lady Evelyn went to Greece to live with her cousin, Briony, her husband, Jeffrey and Daniel Harper. A year has passed since the events of "A Poisonous Journey". Everything seems to be going great until..... A letter arrives from France about Daniel's brother, Henry, who has been dead for years. What does this mysterious letter have to do with Henry? Just about the time you think you have solved the mystery, the page turns.... and your theory falls apart. Evelyn and Daniel take off to France in search of answers but when they arrive, more questions arrive. They haven't even had a chance to look into the mysterious letter when they are faced with another murder. Will Daniel and Lady Evelyn be able to solve the mysteries? Will the murderer be stopped before another victim is taken? The author gives you much to think about while you are being entertained. She gives such vivid descriptions of the settings that you can picture them in your eyes. Lady Evelyn seems to have a shadow of murder that follows her where ever she goes. The reader is kept in suspense until the end. The end leaves you wanting to know what will be next on Lady Evelyn's journeys. What murder will take place next? From "A Poisonous Journey" to "A Darker Shore" the author delights with vivid scenery, detailed characters and action packed mysteries. What will the next book bring? Will the shadow come forth and another murder committed?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and PUYB and voluntarily decided to review it.
MURDER!
Murder seems to follow Lady Evelyn everywhere she goes. Even though the plot is murder, the author gives the reader much to enjoy, that is entertaining and much to put the mind to work trying to solve the crime (crimes). The year is 1926, being a year since Lady Evelyn went to Greece to live with her cousin, Briony, her husband, Jeffrey and Daniel Harper. A year has passed since the events of "A Poisonous Journey". Everything seems to be going great until..... A letter arrives from France about Daniel's brother, Henry, who has been dead for years. What does this mysterious letter have to do with Henry? Just about the time you think you have solved the mystery, the page turns.... and your theory falls apart. Evelyn and Daniel take off to France in search of answers but when they arrive, more questions arrive. They haven't even had a chance to look into the mysterious letter when they are faced with another murder. Will Daniel and Lady Evelyn be able to solve the mysteries? Will the murderer be stopped before another victim is taken? The author gives you much to think about while you are being entertained. She gives such vivid descriptions of the settings that you can picture them in your eyes. Lady Evelyn seems to have a shadow of murder that follows her where ever she goes. The reader is kept in suspense until the end. The end leaves you wanting to know what will be next on Lady Evelyn's journeys. What murder will take place next? From "A Poisonous Journey" to "A Darker Shore" the author delights with vivid scenery, detailed characters and action packed mysteries. What will the next book bring? Will the shadow come forth and another murder committed?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and PUYB and voluntarily decided to review it.
December 27, 2016
Deeply Moving
I chose this book because it took place after the Great War and this period in time interests me. I am also a mystery buff. However the book gave me so much more than I was expecting, exploring the reaction of various souls to the tragic occurrences of their lives including war. And juxtaposing one tragedy with another. It was an extremely satisfying read.
I chose this book because it took place after the Great War and this period in time interests me. I am also a mystery buff. However the book gave me so much more than I was expecting, exploring the reaction of various souls to the tragic occurrences of their lives including war. And juxtaposing one tragedy with another. It was an extremely satisfying read.
September 15, 2020
I flew through this second installment in the Lady Evelyn series! All of my favorite aspects from the first novel are back with new twists and a new, vividly described location. The story follows witty (and sometimes sassy) Lady Evelyn as she helps Daniel solve a mystery regarding his brother, only to get mixed up in murder and intrigue in the vibrant setting of Northern France. The characters and relationships are written to be just as bright and lively as they were in book 1, making the friendships and familial bonds all the more honest and relatable. This book is not only a mystery, it is also a work of historical fiction with incredible attention to detail in the language, fashion, and what northern France in the time would have been like. Therefore, I would recommend A Darker Shore to any reader in the mood for elegant writing, witty and likable characters, and sparkling mystery with a shocking end.
February 10, 2017
Deeply descriptive novel which takes us on a journey. This journey crosses oceans and takes the reader along with the protagonists deeply into people's psyches and deals with strong emotions. We begin, believing we are searching for Daniel's brother, long thought dead. Is hope always a positive thing?
This is a strong study in character and personal strength.
Interactions with supporting personalities and situations drive this novel.
Early atmospheric, this is a portrait of a world still recovering from war, from great loss.
The mystery involving murder and misdirection is a tool to explore deeper subjects.
This is a strong study in character and personal strength.
Interactions with supporting personalities and situations drive this novel.
Early atmospheric, this is a portrait of a world still recovering from war, from great loss.
The mystery involving murder and misdirection is a tool to explore deeper subjects.
November 4, 2016
I have just finished my advance copy of the second Lady Evelyn mystery and enjoyed it at least as much as the first. The mood is somewhat more sombre, the backdrop of the first World War brings added depth to the story. Characters are interesting and involving again. Overall a very enjoyable book.
Want to read
December 1, 2016Oh, cannot wait to see what happens next! :D
February 17, 2018
Excellent second series entry. Set in the decade after WWI ended, these books are atmospheric and moving, and emotionally articulate about the lasting damage done by the war.
Main character Lady Evelyn has been living with her cousin on the island of Crete after exiting from her living situation in England with a prickly aunt. When Evelyn's friend/companion Daniel receives a jarring letter from a woman in France, he is stunned when she writes that she caught a glimpse of Daniel's brother Henry, long dead in the trenches in France, or so everyone thought.
Daniel and Evelyn go to France to investigate the claims in the letter. The two of them must confront the past and a multitude of old sins and scandals.
This book is notable for the well-constructed and multi-layered mystery, but even more for the relationship between characters and the descriptions of how they all deal with old wounds. In tone, these books remind me of Jacqueline Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series, which is high praise indeed.
Main character Lady Evelyn has been living with her cousin on the island of Crete after exiting from her living situation in England with a prickly aunt. When Evelyn's friend/companion Daniel receives a jarring letter from a woman in France, he is stunned when she writes that she caught a glimpse of Daniel's brother Henry, long dead in the trenches in France, or so everyone thought.
Daniel and Evelyn go to France to investigate the claims in the letter. The two of them must confront the past and a multitude of old sins and scandals.
This book is notable for the well-constructed and multi-layered mystery, but even more for the relationship between characters and the descriptions of how they all deal with old wounds. In tone, these books remind me of Jacqueline Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series, which is high praise indeed.
March 24, 2018
If you're looking for a great mystery that takes you back in time, this is the book for you.
Malia Zaidi weaves an intricate tale in the 1920s. The details are so lush, the internal dialogue so candid, that I honestly forgot that this was a modern book at certain points!
The mystery is great, but I found even more fun in following these characters. The emotional stakes are high in this one, and Zaidi perfectly details Evelyn's thoughts and feelings as she journeys onward. Evelyn's commentary on certain political issues of the time, as well as her observance of the emotional stakes of war, adds an even further dimension to her character.
Though I did not read the first book in the Lady Evelyn series, this book did a great job catching me up on important plot points without over-explanation.
I would recommend A Darker Shore for fans of mystery, period pieces, and adventure stories with great characters!
Malia Zaidi weaves an intricate tale in the 1920s. The details are so lush, the internal dialogue so candid, that I honestly forgot that this was a modern book at certain points!
The mystery is great, but I found even more fun in following these characters. The emotional stakes are high in this one, and Zaidi perfectly details Evelyn's thoughts and feelings as she journeys onward. Evelyn's commentary on certain political issues of the time, as well as her observance of the emotional stakes of war, adds an even further dimension to her character.
Though I did not read the first book in the Lady Evelyn series, this book did a great job catching me up on important plot points without over-explanation.
I would recommend A Darker Shore for fans of mystery, period pieces, and adventure stories with great characters!
April 15, 2019
Dark Shore was a cozy historical mystery that took protagonist Evelyn to a far shore, a foreign country to support her friend and love that turned to dark with mysterious death. It was about learning various aspect of humanity, post war trauma, coming out of grief and loss, and finding peace with past.
Characters-
Evelyn was fabulous. She was developed character and yet learned more from the mysteries and aspects of humanity she encountered in this installment. She also realized her responsibility that she was ignoring till now. She was clever, wise, sensitive, inquisitive and well-mannered English lady and not at all a damsel. Her bravery and strength again surprised me. She had knack for communication, reading person and their emotions and best at judging the situation. I was impressed by Evelyn’s random act of kindness. She was great, I wouldn’t be so lenient to someone responsible for the worst deed. Yes, I would like to know why they did so but won’t feel pity like she felt. I bet, this can be her fatal flaw at some point in this series. Her view towards world and humanity was the best thing I like about her.
Daniel was charming. I got to know him and his past in first book but in this we know him more as a person, who he really was outside the shadow of his past. I liked him for strength and courage he showed throughout the book and when the time came he acted reasonably with conscience. At some point like Evelyn I thought he might not be same when all this will be over but he surprised me there.
All secondary characters were brilliant. I didn’t feel they were just side characters, they were as important as Evelyn and Daniel. What was best was, they all including main characters and their emotions felt real.
What I liked-
The title was so fitting. And I loved that cover.
Book started with an intriguing prologue from the past and life of Evelyn in Crete one year after the previous mystery. In this Evelyn embark on another journey and mystery in France along with Daniel when he received a mysterious letter about his late brother. Leaving behind the peace and beauty of Crete both traveled towards dark past of Daniel in France. Little they knew on reaching to Amiens they will tumble upon a dead body. And so the mystery of finding a reason behind death that looked like a planned murder and finding Daniel’s brother began.
Along with the many questions regarding these two mysteries there were another questions that worried Evelyn and so readers– how Daniel is going to face past; will Daniel be the same after finding about his brother; what will be the future of Evelyn and Daniel’s relationship; where they will go from here, to Crete or back to their homeland and responsibilities they were avoiding long.
I could see brief description from the first book here and there but you know Evelyn, Daniel, her cousin and their story best in first Book. So I advise to read this in order. Evelyn’s love for books makes her fascinating character to all readers. Her monologue were great to read that assessed situation well.
The story was written fabulously. I loved narration of some geographical and historical facts related to war in engaging tone of Evelyn. The culture and social beliefs and constitutions were in keeping with the era. Plot, history, characters and their characteristics, development, mystery and suspense everything was perfectly balanced.
Travel is not complete if you don’t meet people, make friends and learn about different cultures and place. Author made sure Evelyn experience it as well. She met some amusing people, explored wonderful places and learned about culture and history of the place. I feel like I have visited Amiens, interacted with people and tasted the delicacies myself along with her.
I liked relationship of Daniel and Evelyn. They were couple now but they gave each other enough space and both were happy not tying it in serious bond. The way they supported each other in all situations was remarkable. Evelyn traveling so far with Daniel, which was his journey not her, was something not all can do and that also ages ago in 1926 takes courage and will! I so admired her for that.
The theme of impact of WWI, wisdom of characters on humanity and life done well in this book again along with a new layers of loss, family drama, revenge and social prejudices. Insightful thought provoking lines in-between chapters made me stop for a while and ponder over characters emotions and their mind. It was hard not feel their sadness, anguish, inner turmoil that they faced in past and still facing in present.
Mystery of finding Henry was stretched without much hope or hint and somehow shadowed by death of their one and only clue. When all clues lead to dead end there came a mysterious letter that boost their hope and search. But it took unexpected turn at climax. Secrets of secondary characters, their life story and Evelyn and Daniel’s attempts of solving the problems made the book interesting. Their efforts of unburdening their present pain, sorrow and worry by bits of normal chats were welcoming relief.
Suspense and mystery was strong. When the climax came, the mystery was unveiled. It was shock. At some point I almost believed what Daniel felt and believed but nothing could prepare me from the shock. If I haven’t been sentimental with characters I might have guessed mystery related to Henry earlier but what came after that was unpredictable. I couldn’t imagine that person to be a murderer. It was bit gloomy with all the unexpected findings and untoward occurrence but was also hopeful of Daniel and Evelyn’s future.
Pace was little slow but I can ignore it as I really enjoyed the story. I can’t wait to read third book and see what new mystery is in store for them.
Overall, it was thought-provoking, engaging mystery with elegant writing and wonderful characters. I surely recommend this book for a cozy read.
*** Note: I received e-copy of this book from the author via damppebbles blog tours, in exchange for an honest review. ***
Characters-
Evelyn was fabulous. She was developed character and yet learned more from the mysteries and aspects of humanity she encountered in this installment. She also realized her responsibility that she was ignoring till now. She was clever, wise, sensitive, inquisitive and well-mannered English lady and not at all a damsel. Her bravery and strength again surprised me. She had knack for communication, reading person and their emotions and best at judging the situation. I was impressed by Evelyn’s random act of kindness. She was great, I wouldn’t be so lenient to someone responsible for the worst deed. Yes, I would like to know why they did so but won’t feel pity like she felt. I bet, this can be her fatal flaw at some point in this series. Her view towards world and humanity was the best thing I like about her.
Daniel was charming. I got to know him and his past in first book but in this we know him more as a person, who he really was outside the shadow of his past. I liked him for strength and courage he showed throughout the book and when the time came he acted reasonably with conscience. At some point like Evelyn I thought he might not be same when all this will be over but he surprised me there.
All secondary characters were brilliant. I didn’t feel they were just side characters, they were as important as Evelyn and Daniel. What was best was, they all including main characters and their emotions felt real.
What I liked-
The title was so fitting. And I loved that cover.
Book started with an intriguing prologue from the past and life of Evelyn in Crete one year after the previous mystery. In this Evelyn embark on another journey and mystery in France along with Daniel when he received a mysterious letter about his late brother. Leaving behind the peace and beauty of Crete both traveled towards dark past of Daniel in France. Little they knew on reaching to Amiens they will tumble upon a dead body. And so the mystery of finding a reason behind death that looked like a planned murder and finding Daniel’s brother began.
Along with the many questions regarding these two mysteries there were another questions that worried Evelyn and so readers– how Daniel is going to face past; will Daniel be the same after finding about his brother; what will be the future of Evelyn and Daniel’s relationship; where they will go from here, to Crete or back to their homeland and responsibilities they were avoiding long.
I could see brief description from the first book here and there but you know Evelyn, Daniel, her cousin and their story best in first Book. So I advise to read this in order. Evelyn’s love for books makes her fascinating character to all readers. Her monologue were great to read that assessed situation well.
The story was written fabulously. I loved narration of some geographical and historical facts related to war in engaging tone of Evelyn. The culture and social beliefs and constitutions were in keeping with the era. Plot, history, characters and their characteristics, development, mystery and suspense everything was perfectly balanced.
Travel is not complete if you don’t meet people, make friends and learn about different cultures and place. Author made sure Evelyn experience it as well. She met some amusing people, explored wonderful places and learned about culture and history of the place. I feel like I have visited Amiens, interacted with people and tasted the delicacies myself along with her.
I liked relationship of Daniel and Evelyn. They were couple now but they gave each other enough space and both were happy not tying it in serious bond. The way they supported each other in all situations was remarkable. Evelyn traveling so far with Daniel, which was his journey not her, was something not all can do and that also ages ago in 1926 takes courage and will! I so admired her for that.
The theme of impact of WWI, wisdom of characters on humanity and life done well in this book again along with a new layers of loss, family drama, revenge and social prejudices. Insightful thought provoking lines in-between chapters made me stop for a while and ponder over characters emotions and their mind. It was hard not feel their sadness, anguish, inner turmoil that they faced in past and still facing in present.
Mystery of finding Henry was stretched without much hope or hint and somehow shadowed by death of their one and only clue. When all clues lead to dead end there came a mysterious letter that boost their hope and search. But it took unexpected turn at climax. Secrets of secondary characters, their life story and Evelyn and Daniel’s attempts of solving the problems made the book interesting. Their efforts of unburdening their present pain, sorrow and worry by bits of normal chats were welcoming relief.
Suspense and mystery was strong. When the climax came, the mystery was unveiled. It was shock. At some point I almost believed what Daniel felt and believed but nothing could prepare me from the shock. If I haven’t been sentimental with characters I might have guessed mystery related to Henry earlier but what came after that was unpredictable. I couldn’t imagine that person to be a murderer. It was bit gloomy with all the unexpected findings and untoward occurrence but was also hopeful of Daniel and Evelyn’s future.
Pace was little slow but I can ignore it as I really enjoyed the story. I can’t wait to read third book and see what new mystery is in store for them.
Overall, it was thought-provoking, engaging mystery with elegant writing and wonderful characters. I surely recommend this book for a cozy read.
*** Note: I received e-copy of this book from the author via damppebbles blog tours, in exchange for an honest review. ***
August 26, 2017
Ms. Zaidi did it again with another fast-paced historical mystery. The characters, Evelyn and Daniel are back, and Briony and family, too. The story starts when Daniel receives a letter that his brother may have survived WWI. When they arrive in France, another bombshell of sorts occurs. The characters come alive from the page with twists and turns until the end. Well done. I was given a copy of this book for my honest review.
January 30, 2017
For fans of historical mystery, just finished A Darker Shore: a Lady Evelyn Mystery. This is the second book in the series and a wonderful plot set in post-WWI France. I love seeing Lady Evie grow and challenge herself--on to Oxford!
August 12, 2018
You will want Google Earth at hand to trace their steps
From The first book in Crete then the journey to France, being able to go down to the streets where the characters spent their time, was so fascinating. I love this series even more for the arm chair travel opportunity.
From The first book in Crete then the journey to France, being able to go down to the streets where the characters spent their time, was so fascinating. I love this series even more for the arm chair travel opportunity.
Read
January 5, 2017While I enjoyed the characters, I found the book much too slow moving, and had difficulty reading it to the end.
January 2, 2022
In this second in the Lady Evelyn mystery series, two of the main characters from the first – Lady Evelyn and Daniel – rather quickly leave Crete and head to Amiens France on a mission. Daniel has received a letter from a woman in Amiens stating that she has seen his brother Henry, believed by everyone to have been killed in WWI.
The author excels at creating a vivid setting. I could feel Amiens, taste what the characters were eating. I knew what Lady Evelyn looked like. Unfortunately, this book suffers from many of the problems I had with the first entry. First, it desperately needed careful editing. There are numerous grammatical mistakes. And once again, Lady Evelyn spends far too much time in her own head, ruminating endlessly (and at times repetitively) about such things as the nature of man, the state of the world, and whether she truly loves Daniel or not. The author throws in a lot of other threads involving the backstories and problems of minor characters. The book would’ve been improved with many of these were eliminated.
There were some twists and turns at the end that were interesting. Overall, I would give this a C/C-, so three stars here. It appears that the third book is set in England. I will undoubtedly read it but hope some of the problems I’ve had with the first two disappear. I also hope we see more of the family on Crete.
The author excels at creating a vivid setting. I could feel Amiens, taste what the characters were eating. I knew what Lady Evelyn looked like. Unfortunately, this book suffers from many of the problems I had with the first entry. First, it desperately needed careful editing. There are numerous grammatical mistakes. And once again, Lady Evelyn spends far too much time in her own head, ruminating endlessly (and at times repetitively) about such things as the nature of man, the state of the world, and whether she truly loves Daniel or not. The author throws in a lot of other threads involving the backstories and problems of minor characters. The book would’ve been improved with many of these were eliminated.
There were some twists and turns at the end that were interesting. Overall, I would give this a C/C-, so three stars here. It appears that the third book is set in England. I will undoubtedly read it but hope some of the problems I’ve had with the first two disappear. I also hope we see more of the family on Crete.
May 15, 2019
Wonderful
I love these characters and story lines. The books are well written and intriguing. My only complaint is with the editing and proofreading.
I love these characters and story lines. The books are well written and intriguing. My only complaint is with the editing and proofreading.
April 15, 2017
A Darker Shore: A Lady Evelyn Mystery (The Lady Evelyn Mysteries Book 2) Kindle Edition by malia Zaidi starts off in 1917 France, a war scene in the trenches and all does not end well. The story then moves to Crete 1926 and we are reunited with our protagonist Evie, her love interest Daniel, Evie’s cousin Briony and her husband Jeffrey ( and their three adopted orphaned children: Timon, Briony, & Iona). There is the reminded of a murder that happened not all that long ago to one Casper Ballantine, who was Daniel’s best friend. As the story begins there’s instant involvement with crisp dialogue and timely scenes that immediate engage the reader. And as all are getting along famously a mysterious letter arrives from London (which originate in France) to Daniel. It’s from a woman who writes that his deceased brother Henry is still alive, she swears she saw him. She knew him back during the war. This is a shock to Daniel who has no family left and recently lost his best friend. His two older brothers ostensibly died during the Great War and when his parents found out his mother died and shortly after his father took his own life. We’re so involved with this character and his wanting to find out about whether brother Henry is alive or it’s simply mistaken identity that it’s hard to put the book down. As Evie is Daniel’s love interest, he asks her to join him in his search for the truth about Henry. She says yes but as the time approached is conflicted, she doesn’t want to upset the relationship or lose what they have by spending so much time together. They set off tor Amien, the French town where the letter and sighting originated. What awaits in Amiens is not what’s expected and here the plot’s tension picks up and I’m up till wee hours unable to stop the read as a murder occurs and … no spoilers here. The beauty of the story is in the writing, the scene descriptions, the history that is interwoven but not overdone, and the time appropriate dialogue. I read this author’s first book and loved it. This one was just as enjoyable. Malia Zaidi is an author to become very familiar with. Can’t wait for more.
Want to read
July 21, 2018I already read #1. This is not at the library at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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