Jane and the Stillroom Maid is a nice comeback from the disappointment of the fourth installment in this otherwise spritely series. Unlike Jane and the Genius of the Place, the reason for the servant's odd dress isn't obvious from the very first. Indeed, I found myself being constantly surprised. You won't guess "who done it" until you're told in the very last pages.As with all the Jane Austen mysteries, you'll find yourself enjoying the style and historical footnotes as much as the mystery itself. Ms. Barron has mastered imitating the voice of Restoration "ladies" books and scrupulously researched the customs of the early 19th century. I felt a little thrill when she alluded to the customs of mourning and "half-mourning."Lovers of Jane Austen won't be disappointed, of course. But neither are mystery lovers who want something a little bit off the beaten path.