The Emperor's Conspiracy

October 8, 2012
Diener (Keeper of the King’s Secrets) delivers a rousing read in this stand-alone novel with a hasty final act. Charlotte Raven went from childhood chimney sweep to London high society when good fortune smiled on her at a young age. She now straddles two worlds, enjoying a life of affluence, yet forever tied to her humble roots and Luke Bracken, the man who lifted her from destitution. When Charlotte is inadvertently caught up in a national conspiracy involving Napoleon, she must make use of this dual status on the streets of London. During a growing recession, gold guineas begin mysteriously disappearing by the ton. When Lord Durnham comes to London to investigate, Charlotte’s personal connections and class-bridging status place her in the center of the unfolding drama. Diener entwines mystery and romance within this 19th-century historical thriller. The story moves at a pace that will keep readers intrigued and rooting for Charlotte, but too many subplots—including the love triangle at the novel’s core—are left untidy by the end. The story begs for a sequel. Agent: Marlene Stringer, the Stringer Literary Agency.

November 15, 2012

Charlotte started life in a London rookery, began working as a chimney sweep's assistant at age four, and at age 12 was rescued from a fiery end by Lady Catherine Howe. Now in 1811, Miss Charlotte Raven has the skills and experience to move easily through the fashionable society world of her guardian, but she remains equally connected to her childhood protector, crime boss Luke Bracken. When Lord Edward Durnham and Charlotte cross paths in the effort to save his sister's family, the connection is so immediate and intense it can only result in either a shared beginning or a tragic end. VERDICT An unconventional heroine is the star of this unusual debut, but there's nothing odd about how quickly readers will be engaged by the characters and the action. Complicated, intricate relationships, and a clever, slowly unfolding criminal plot to destroy the British upper class create a dynamic tension that is impossible to resist. An open, but satisfying, ending fits the novel's tone while still leaving hope for a second novel. Suggest to fans of Elizabeth Chadwick or Lauren Willig. A readers' group guide is included.--Stacey Hayman, Rocky River P.L., OH

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