Review of The Hidden City (Charles Lenox, #12)
When I received an ARC of The Hidden City, I couldn’t contain my excitement; I literally screamed! As a devoted fan of Charles Finch’s historical mystery series featuring the charming detective Charles Lenox, holding the twelfth installment felt like an intimate reunion with old friends. Finch’s world is one I eagerly immerse myself in, and this latest adventure didn’t disappoint. In fact, I read it in one delightful sitting, completely enveloped by the warm embrace of Victorian England.
The heart of The Hidden City revolves around Lenox’s growth as a character. This time, he juggles three compelling challenges: solving a cold case for his beloved former housekeeper, Mrs. Huggins; welcoming his cousin’s daughter Angela and her friend Sari, who have just arrived from India; and navigating his wife Lady Jane’s passionate advocacy for women’s suffrage. Each of these plotlines intricately weaves together, highlighting Lenox’s journey toward deeper self-awareness and understanding of his societal role.
I was particularly drawn to the blossoming character of Clara, Lenox’s spirited daughter, who exhibits all the makings of a budding detective. Finch’s ability to develop characters over time while maintaining their core essence is truly remarkable. In this installment, Lenox isn’t merely an amateur sleuth; he is a husband, a father, and a man deeply affected by the changing world around him.
Finch’s prose is as inviting as ever, seamlessly transporting readers to bustling Victorian streets filled with evocative smells, sights, and an authentic sense of place. His meticulous attention to detail, from the politics of the time to the quaintness of livery companies, captivated me throughout. Finch effortlessly merges historical accuracy with an engaging narrative, ensuring that the reader feels completely immersed. One cannot help but appreciate the cozy touch of familiar settings and warm, delightful descriptions of food that breathe life into each scene.
There was one moment in particular— a heartwarming scene with Skaggs involving a piano— that made me smile and feel a comforting nostalgia for Lenox’s entire circle of friends. It’s these small, tender interactions that further enhance Finch’s intimate storytelling and allow us to connect with these characters on a deeper level.
As the book concludes, it tantalizingly hints at more adventures ahead, perhaps even abroad. The thought of following Lenox and his family on new escapades fills me with anticipation. Finch’s writing possesses a rare ability to comfort, making me certain that I will revisit The Hidden City time and again.
For fellow fans of historical mysteries, and especially those who cherish character-driven stories rich with detail and warmth, The Hidden City is a must-read. It’s a delightful blend of investigation, personal growth, and social commentary that resonates deeply with its readers. This latest addition reminds us that even the most cosseted lives are shaped by the world beyond our familiar comforts.
My sincerest thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for granting me the privilege of reading this early. This book has certainly set the bar high for my most anticipated releases of the year, and I can’t wait for everyone else to join Lenox on his next adventure this November!
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