India Black and the Widow of Windsor by Carol K. Carr

India Black and the Widow of Windsor (Madam of Espionage Mystery, #2)

by Carol K. Carr

Black is back-Her Majesty's favorite spy is off to Scotland in this new adventure to ensure the Queen doesn't end up getting killed.

When Queen Victoria attends a séance, the spirit of her departed husband, Prince Albert, insists she spend Christmas at their Scottish home in Balmoral. Prime Minister Disraeli suspects the Scottish nationalists plan to assassinate the Queen-and sends the ever resourceful India and the handsome British spy, French, to the Scottish highlands.

French will take the high road, looking for a traitor among the guests-and India will take the low road, disguised as a servant in case an assassin is hiding among the household staff. India is certain that someone at Balmoral is determined to make this Her Majesty's last Christmas...

Reviewed by MurderByDeath on

4 of 5 stars

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I really enjoy this series - what's not to like about a brothel madam that becomes a spy for her majesty? I love the repartee between her and French, her partner in spying. I love India's sass and wit and her pragmatic outlook to life.

This book, the second one in the series, takes place in Scotland at Balmoral castle. I'm generally not a fan of "away" mysteries, since I usually have to adjust a new cast of characters, but this one simply relocates the entire cast to Balmoral for the duration. India goes undercover as a personal maid for a Marchioness who is rather eccentric. There are scenes with this woman that had me absolutely laughing out loud - one involving pepper that I had to put the book down for, I was laughing so hard. Truly these are Stephanie Plum-worth scenes, although the book itself could hardly be compared to J. Evanovich's popular series.

The book ends with some intriguing hints to future character developments and I look forward to the next book.

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  • Started reading
  • 29 July, 2012: Finished reading
  • 29 July, 2012: Reviewed