"In the City of Dark Waters" by Jane Jakeman is an enthralling historical mystery that takes place in 19th century Venice. The story follows the independent and resourceful protagonist, Heloise Chancey, as she becomes caught in a dangerous web of murder, deceit, and hidden truths.

One of the book's major strengths is Jakeman's ability to bring Venice to life through her vivid descriptions. The city's dark canals, mysterious streets, and rich history are expertly portrayed, adding depth and ambiance to the narrative. The writing style is engaging, striking a perfect balance between suspense, historical detail, and character development.

Heloise Chancey is a captivating protagonist, driven by her determination to uncover the truth. Her strength and resourcefulness propel the plot forward, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. Moreover, the supporting characters are well-developed, each with their own secrets and motivations that add layers of intrigue and tension to the story.

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The mystery itself is skillfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. Jakeman weaves together historical events, political intrigue, and personal vendettas, making the plot not only a thrilling mystery but also a fascinating exploration of the time period. The pacing is superb, maintaining suspense and holding the reader's interest throughout.

"In the City of Dark Waters" is an engrossing blend of historical fiction and mystery, with a strong female protagonist and a meticulously researched setting. Jakeman's writing draws readers into the sinister heart of Venice, where danger lurks around every corner and the past hides its secrets. This novel will keep readers captivated until the very last page.

What are readers saying?

Jane Jakeman's "In The City of Dark Waters" takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark streets of Victorian London. Set in the late 19th century, the novel follows the courageous protagonist, Claire Donovan, as she becomes entangled in a web of mystery and danger.

Reviewers unanimously praised Jakeman's atmospheric and vivid writing style, describing it as gripping and immersive. They commended the author's ability to bring Victorian London to life through her descriptive prose, which transported readers back in time and provided a rich reading experience.

One of the book's strengths that received widespread praise was the well-developed characters. Claire Donovan was lauded as a compelling protagonist, with her determination and courage captivating readers. The supporting characters were also well-written, with their own motivations and secrets adding depth to the story.

The plot of the book was consistently praised for its pacing and intrigue. Reviewers found the balance of twists and turns to be engaging, describing the suspense and mystery elements as captivating and unpredictable.

Readers appreciated the historical accuracy of "In The City of Dark Waters." They praised the level of detail and research that went into capturing the essence of Victorian London, as it added an extra layer of authenticity to the story and made the setting come alive.

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