Although I did not enjoy this book as much as the last one it is still a great read. We have our sleuth, Jane Austen, delving into the world of espionage. The book is set in Kent in August of 1805. It was during this time that England was under threat of an invasion by Napoleon, and when a local woman is found dead in another man's chaise, Jane and her family don't at first connect the death to treachery and espionage. The lady had what was called a "reputation". Not many mourn the beautiful and brazen Francoise, but Ned, Jane's brother is the county magistrate, so he must find the killer. He enlists the help of the intrepid Jane. I really like these characters, and I have to keep reminding myself that this Jane Austen is not the real one. This is a wonderful Regency series.