Kelley Armstrong’s “The Poisoner’s Ring” is the second installment in her “Rip Through Time” series, a captivating blend of historical fiction and time travel mystery. The story follows Mallory Atkinson, a modern-day detective who finds herself inexplicably transported to 1869 Edinburgh. Stuck in the body of Catriona, a housemaid, Mallory must navigate the intricacies of Victorian society while desperately seeking a way back to her own time.
Reviews on Goodreads praise the novel’s ability to balance the challenges of Mallory’s situation with a compelling murder investigation. She lands a job working for Dr. Duncan Gray, a local undertaker, and quickly finds herself embroiled in a series of suspicious deaths. Using her 21st-century detective skills, Mallory clashes with Victorian sensibilities as she investigates the possibility of a serial poisoner. The mystery is well-crafted, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
Armstrong excels at bringing Victorian Edinburgh to life. Descriptions paint a vivid picture of the city’s bustling streets, its rigid social hierarchy, and the ever-present shadow of death. Mallory’s outsider perspective adds a layer of intrigue, highlighting the stark differences between her own time and the 19th century.
Mallory is a fantastic protagonist. She’s intelligent, resourceful, and determined to find her way back home. While her modern knowledge can be a challenge in Victorian society, it also proves to be an asset in her detective work. Readers cheer Mallory on as she outsmarts suspects and navigates the dangers of her situation.
The novel also hints at a potential slow-burn romance between Mallory and a charming character from her new life. This subplot adds another layer of interest to the story without overshadowing the central mystery.
In conclusion “The Poisoner’s Ring” is a thrilling read that will keep you hooked from page one. With its strong protagonist, captivating mystery, and immersive historical setting, this novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and time travel adventures. While some readers on Goodreads recommend starting with the first book in the series, “A Rip Through Time,” “The Poisoner’s Ring” can also be enjoyed as a standalone novel.
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The Poisoner’s Ring (A Rip Through Time, #2) by Kelley Armstrong | Goodreads
