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Lily Adler Mystery #2
Silence in the Library
Regency widow Lily Adler didn't expect to find a corpse when visiting a family friend. Now it's up to her to discover the killer in the charming second installment in the Lily Adler mysteries.
Regency widow Lily Adler has finally settled into her new London life when her semi-estranged father arrives unexpectedly, intending to stay with her while he recovers from an illness. Hounded by his disapproval, Lily is drawn into spending time with Lady Wyatt, the new wife of an old family friend. Lily barely knows Lady Wyatt. But she and her husband, Sir Charles, seem as happy as any newly married couple until the morning Lily arrives to find the house in an uproar and Sir Charles dead.
All signs indicate that he tripped and struck his head late at night. But when Bow Street constable Simon Page is called to the scene, he suspects foul play. And it isn't long before Lily stumbles on evidence that Sir Charles was, indeed, murdered.
Mr. Page was there when Lily caught her first murderer, and he trusts her insight into the world of London's upper class. With the help of Captain Jack Hartley, they piece together the reasons that Sir Charles's family might have wanted him dead. But anyone who might have profited from the old man's death seems to have an alibi... until Lily receives a mysterious summons to speak with one of the Wyatts' maids, only to find the young woman dead when she arrives.
Mr. Page believes the surviving family members are hiding the key to the death of both Sir Charles and the maid. To uncover the truth, Lily must convince the father who doesn't trust or respect her to help catch his friend's killer before anyone else in the Wyatt household dies.
Regency widow Lily Adler has finally settled into her new London life when her semi-estranged father arrives unexpectedly, intending to stay with her while he recovers from an illness. Hounded by his disapproval, Lily is drawn into spending time with Lady Wyatt, the new wife of an old family friend. Lily barely knows Lady Wyatt. But she and her husband, Sir Charles, seem as happy as any newly married couple until the morning Lily arrives to find the house in an uproar and Sir Charles dead.
All signs indicate that he tripped and struck his head late at night. But when Bow Street constable Simon Page is called to the scene, he suspects foul play. And it isn't long before Lily stumbles on evidence that Sir Charles was, indeed, murdered.
Mr. Page was there when Lily caught her first murderer, and he trusts her insight into the world of London's upper class. With the help of Captain Jack Hartley, they piece together the reasons that Sir Charles's family might have wanted him dead. But anyone who might have profited from the old man's death seems to have an alibi... until Lily receives a mysterious summons to speak with one of the Wyatts' maids, only to find the young woman dead when she arrives.
Mr. Page believes the surviving family members are hiding the key to the death of both Sir Charles and the maid. To uncover the truth, Lily must convince the father who doesn't trust or respect her to help catch his friend's killer before anyone else in the Wyatt household dies.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published July 13, 2021
About the author
Katharine Schellman
13 books1,042 followersKatharine Schellman is the author of the Lily Adler Mysteries and the forthcoming Nightingale Mysteries. Her debut novel, The Body in the Garden, was one of Suspense Magazine's Best Books of 2020 and led to her being named one of BookPage's 16 Women to Watch in 2020. Her second novel, Silence in the Library, was praised as "worthy of Rex Stout or Agatha Christie" (Library Journal).
Katharine lives and writes in the mountains of Virginia in the company of her husband, children, and the many houseplants she keeps accidentally murdering. Find her on Instagram as @katharinewrites.
Katharine lives and writes in the mountains of Virginia in the company of her husband, children, and the many houseplants she keeps accidentally murdering. Find her on Instagram as @katharinewrites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 477 reviews
June 19, 2021
This is shaping up to be a really excellent series.
Silence in the Library is the second in this series of Regency mysteries with Lily Adler as the main character and amateur sleuth. Lily is a genuinely strong female character, especially as a woman of her time. She has been widowed young and lives independently. She enjoys a friendly relationship with Captain Jack Hartley who was a close friend of her husband (we wait with great interest to see this relationship develop further!). Most importantly she stands up for herself as an individual with rights and also wants to see justice done for others.
Lily's father is a hard man who criticises every aspect of her life so when he comes to stay with her for a while she has some very difficult moments. At the same time she is drawn into investigating a murder which involves people close to her own family. She and Captain Jack and a Bow Street Runner called Simon make up the investigation team and they are good!
By the middle of the book I was happy that I knew who committed the crime and also why, but I had to wait to the end to find out how. I was pleased that Lily took care of herself, and the only time she went into danger she knew what she was doing and went prepared. She is a very intelligent woman in practice as well as by description.
All of this is wrapped in a beautiful cover and is very nicely written. A totally enjoyable way to pass a few very pleasant hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Silence in the Library is the second in this series of Regency mysteries with Lily Adler as the main character and amateur sleuth. Lily is a genuinely strong female character, especially as a woman of her time. She has been widowed young and lives independently. She enjoys a friendly relationship with Captain Jack Hartley who was a close friend of her husband (we wait with great interest to see this relationship develop further!). Most importantly she stands up for herself as an individual with rights and also wants to see justice done for others.
Lily's father is a hard man who criticises every aspect of her life so when he comes to stay with her for a while she has some very difficult moments. At the same time she is drawn into investigating a murder which involves people close to her own family. She and Captain Jack and a Bow Street Runner called Simon make up the investigation team and they are good!
By the middle of the book I was happy that I knew who committed the crime and also why, but I had to wait to the end to find out how. I was pleased that Lily took care of herself, and the only time she went into danger she knew what she was doing and went prepared. She is a very intelligent woman in practice as well as by description.
All of this is wrapped in a beautiful cover and is very nicely written. A totally enjoyable way to pass a few very pleasant hours.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 19, 2021
This Regency period cosy mystery featuring young widow Lily Adler was a delightful read. Lily is a charming young woman, who has set up her own household in London after the death of her husband two years before, rather than move back home with her cold and disapproving father. To please her father she agrees to call on Sir Charles Wyatt, an old family friend of theirs to congratulate him on his recent second marriage and meets Lady Wyatt, his new wife, and reacquaints herself with his son. However, promising to return the next morning to ride with Lady Wyatt, she finds herself in a middle of a murder scene with detective Simon Paige from Bow St called in to investigate. Lily knows Simon from before as this is not the first murder she has been close to and hoped him solve with her insight.
This is the second in the Lily Adler series, which I didn't realise when I started to read it. While it would have been good to start with the first book to become acquainted with all the characters and their circumstances, I found it easy to pick up the necessary facts and background and enjoy this episode. Lily is a clever and personable young woman whose intuition and understanding of human nature as well as her ability to infiltrate the homes of the upper classes and discover things off limit to the Bow St police. Her husband's boyhood friend, Captain Jack Hartley who has become close to her since her husband died, is also happy to help Lily and the police in their investigations. A very enjoyable, intelligently written, domestic mystery with some lovely characters I look forward to following in future episodes of the series.
With thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
This is the second in the Lily Adler series, which I didn't realise when I started to read it. While it would have been good to start with the first book to become acquainted with all the characters and their circumstances, I found it easy to pick up the necessary facts and background and enjoy this episode. Lily is a clever and personable young woman whose intuition and understanding of human nature as well as her ability to infiltrate the homes of the upper classes and discover things off limit to the Bow St police. Her husband's boyhood friend, Captain Jack Hartley who has become close to her since her husband died, is also happy to help Lily and the police in their investigations. A very enjoyable, intelligently written, domestic mystery with some lovely characters I look forward to following in future episodes of the series.
With thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
July 21, 2021
LILY ADLER IS MY FAVOURITE REGENCY DETECTIVE
There's just something magical about this series. I just lifts my spirit and makes me escape the world for a while. I've been in a bit of a rut lately, but this book pulled me out of it. A definite recommendation!
👍 What I Liked 👍
Mystery: I was left kept guessing up until the very last moment! I had absolutely no clue who the culprit was and I loved it! Usually I shy away from mysteries, because they're hardly ever all that mysterious. That was not the case with this book.
Lily: Lily is just amazing. I love her spirit, her tenacity and her spunk. She doesn't accept a no if there's something she really wants. She knows her own worth and demands others recognize it as well. She makes me smile a lot.
Jack: Jack is a total gentleman with a mischievous side. I love the way he jokes with Lily and how protective he is of her without crowding her or taking her choices away from her. He supports her and I love that about him. I just wish this book had even more Jack!
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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There's just something magical about this series. I just lifts my spirit and makes me escape the world for a while. I've been in a bit of a rut lately, but this book pulled me out of it. A definite recommendation!
👍 What I Liked 👍
Mystery: I was left kept guessing up until the very last moment! I had absolutely no clue who the culprit was and I loved it! Usually I shy away from mysteries, because they're hardly ever all that mysterious. That was not the case with this book.
Lily: Lily is just amazing. I love her spirit, her tenacity and her spunk. She doesn't accept a no if there's something she really wants. She knows her own worth and demands others recognize it as well. She makes me smile a lot.
Jack: Jack is a total gentleman with a mischievous side. I love the way he jokes with Lily and how protective he is of her without crowding her or taking her choices away from her. He supports her and I love that about him. I just wish this book had even more Jack!
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 15 Bookworm Problems
July 28, 2021
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SILENCE IN THE LIBRARY (A Lily Adler Mystery Book #2) by Katharine Schellman is the second amateur sleuth historical mystery featuring the intelligent and independent Regency era young widow, Lily Adler. This is a strong addition to this new series. It is an intricately plotted mystery with Regency era characters that are believable to their time in history. The mystery can be read as a standalone, but it continues with character interactions that began in the first book of the series.
Lily Adler returns home from an outing to find her father, George Pierce has moved into her London home for his stay in town for a visit to a physician. Lily and her father have always been critical of Lily and his stay is not welcome, but she cannot send him away. Her father tells Lily his old friend and neighbor has remarried and so Lily volunteers to pay a congratulatory call on the new couple to get out of her home and away from their arguments.
Lily and her friend Captain Jack Hatley pay a visit to Sir Charles Wyatt and his new wife. The visit becomes uncomfortable when they witness the eldest son’s rudeness to his father’s new wife and the cousin is caught stealing money from Sir Charles office drawer. The next morning Sir Charles is found dead and Simon Page, the Bow Street constable determines the man was murdered.
Once again, Lily refuses to stay out of Mr. Page’s case when she knows she can be of assistance. Soon there is another murder. Can Lily, Jack and Simon sort through all the stories told by the family members and servants to discover a killer?
This is such an enjoyable and engaging mystery read. I love Lily, Jack and Simon and the way their personal interactions are evolving in this series as you learn more about each. All the characters are realistically portrayed for the Regency era and the descriptions of social interactions, clothing and settings add depth and richness to the story. The mystery plot moves at a good pace and has many red herrings and twists that kept me changing my mind about the guilty party right up until the climax. I am looking forward to more mysteries with Lily and I am also looking forward to how the author handles her private life now that she is out of mourning.
I highly recommend this historical mystery, the series and the author!
SILENCE IN THE LIBRARY (A Lily Adler Mystery Book #2) by Katharine Schellman is the second amateur sleuth historical mystery featuring the intelligent and independent Regency era young widow, Lily Adler. This is a strong addition to this new series. It is an intricately plotted mystery with Regency era characters that are believable to their time in history. The mystery can be read as a standalone, but it continues with character interactions that began in the first book of the series.
Lily Adler returns home from an outing to find her father, George Pierce has moved into her London home for his stay in town for a visit to a physician. Lily and her father have always been critical of Lily and his stay is not welcome, but she cannot send him away. Her father tells Lily his old friend and neighbor has remarried and so Lily volunteers to pay a congratulatory call on the new couple to get out of her home and away from their arguments.
Lily and her friend Captain Jack Hatley pay a visit to Sir Charles Wyatt and his new wife. The visit becomes uncomfortable when they witness the eldest son’s rudeness to his father’s new wife and the cousin is caught stealing money from Sir Charles office drawer. The next morning Sir Charles is found dead and Simon Page, the Bow Street constable determines the man was murdered.
Once again, Lily refuses to stay out of Mr. Page’s case when she knows she can be of assistance. Soon there is another murder. Can Lily, Jack and Simon sort through all the stories told by the family members and servants to discover a killer?
This is such an enjoyable and engaging mystery read. I love Lily, Jack and Simon and the way their personal interactions are evolving in this series as you learn more about each. All the characters are realistically portrayed for the Regency era and the descriptions of social interactions, clothing and settings add depth and richness to the story. The mystery plot moves at a good pace and has many red herrings and twists that kept me changing my mind about the guilty party right up until the climax. I am looking forward to more mysteries with Lily and I am also looking forward to how the author handles her private life now that she is out of mourning.
I highly recommend this historical mystery, the series and the author!
November 20, 2021
The second book in the series that can be read as a stand alone. A good mystery with many clues and misdirection's. A widow who is dealing with a father who has lost a friend and he is disappointed she is not a son. It also tells the story of how she moves on from her period of mourning for a husband she loved. Well written characters and good plotting. There is no romance in the book but, there are hints that this may come up in future books.
April 15, 2021
Lily Adler, a young widow in Regency London, is unhappy when her obnoxious father turns up unannounced for a visit and demands that she pay a call on his old friend. She complies, and the old gentleman's new wife suggests they go riding the next day. There is to be no riding that day, as there has been a murder at the house, and Lily finds herself working with Constable Page to determine the culprit. Lily is bright and independent in an era which frowned upon that kind of woman, reminiscent of Lady Darby in the Regency mysteries by Anna Lee Huber. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
March 22, 2023
March 2023: A third time through and I still love this book. The mystery is interesting and Lily’s friendships continue to develop. Love the two neurodivergent kids, one we’ll probably see again in a future book?
August 2022: it’s funny what you pick up during a second read. I loved this book the first time around. One thing I rushed through the first time just to see what would happen was the political conversation when Lily meets Matthew Spencer (potential love interest #3?).
I also really enjoyed the brief scene with Page’s niece, who wanted to talk to Lily about botany. She’s delightful and I hope we see her again.
February 2022: I really liked the first book in this series, but I LOVE the second. The sophomore slump does not exist in this series.
At the very start of the book, we get Lily and Jack solving a problem at the home of the Wyatts, who lived near Lily’s family home. The head of the family was friends with Lily’s terrible father, who is staying at Lily’s house indefinitely. The man’s son is a favorite of Lily’s father. The father turns up dead, as does a maid in the household.
Between dealing with personal baggage and the mystery, there is so much here. The pace is great, too. The big conclusion was very satisfying.
There is one particularly lovely scene that isn’t essential to the plot, but is my favorite. It involves Lily reluctantly wearing color again after wearing half-mourning for longer than usual. She’s clearly nervous and gets support from her maid, her butler, and Jack. It’s one of those scenes to flip back to and read again.
August 2022: it’s funny what you pick up during a second read. I loved this book the first time around. One thing I rushed through the first time just to see what would happen was the political conversation when Lily meets Matthew Spencer (potential love interest #3?).
I also really enjoyed the brief scene with Page’s niece, who wanted to talk to Lily about botany. She’s delightful and I hope we see her again.
February 2022: I really liked the first book in this series, but I LOVE the second. The sophomore slump does not exist in this series.
At the very start of the book, we get Lily and Jack solving a problem at the home of the Wyatts, who lived near Lily’s family home. The head of the family was friends with Lily’s terrible father, who is staying at Lily’s house indefinitely. The man’s son is a favorite of Lily’s father. The father turns up dead, as does a maid in the household.
Between dealing with personal baggage and the mystery, there is so much here. The pace is great, too. The big conclusion was very satisfying.
There is one particularly lovely scene that isn’t essential to the plot, but is my favorite. It involves Lily reluctantly wearing color again after wearing half-mourning for longer than usual. She’s clearly nervous and gets support from her maid, her butler, and Jack. It’s one of those scenes to flip back to and read again.
August 30, 2021
An enjoyable Regency whodunit with interesting characters.
Lili Adler is just barely daring to put aside her mourning garb while her irascible father invites himself into her home for a visit.
He treats her horribly for no good reason that I could figure out. Since I did not read book #1 in the series maybe I missed something.
There are two murders to solve, one of which involves her father’s best friend, and along with her very close relationship with half-Indian Captain Jack Hartley (her deceased husband’s best friend) they go about assisting Constable Simon Page in solving the murders.
The author switches willy-nilly from Christian names to sir names which at times I found confusing.
As much as I enjoyed this book I don’t think I’m interested enough to seek out book #3.
Lili Adler is just barely daring to put aside her mourning garb while her irascible father invites himself into her home for a visit.
He treats her horribly for no good reason that I could figure out. Since I did not read book #1 in the series maybe I missed something.
There are two murders to solve, one of which involves her father’s best friend, and along with her very close relationship with half-Indian Captain Jack Hartley (her deceased husband’s best friend) they go about assisting Constable Simon Page in solving the murders.
The author switches willy-nilly from Christian names to sir names which at times I found confusing.
As much as I enjoyed this book I don’t think I’m interested enough to seek out book #3.
February 16, 2021
Second in a series, this Regency mystery featuring widow Lily Adler is a charming page-turner and such a fun read. No need to finish book one first although you’ll want to after following Lily in action as she works to unravel the murder of a family friend with the help of attractive Jack Hartley. Then another murder occurs, raising the stakes even higher. Will they succeed before someone else is knocked off? Will their friendship become something more along the way? A delight for fans of historical mysteries and slow-burn romances.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 13 Jul 2021
#SilenceintheLibrary #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
4 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 13 Jul 2021
#SilenceintheLibrary #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
July 13, 2021
Silence in the Library is the second instalment in the Lily Adler Mystery series set in Regency London. It's 1815 and London resident and young widower Lady Lily Adler is taken aback to discover her estranged father and notorious bully George Pierce has arrived in her neighbourhood and has invited himself to stay with his less than impressed daughter while he visits the doctor. Due to his health, Pierce doesn't have time to visit his long time friend Sir Charles Wyatt who has recently remarried and could be moving from the bustling city to the wilds of the countryside any day now, so Lily uses this as her means of escape. She heads off on her way to his home to personally convey her father’s well wishes to the happy couple. When she arrives she finds that Charles Wyatt is out attending to business but Lady Wyatt and their son Frank, who is the same age as Lily, are present to receive George’s respects. The following day, Sir Charles’ remains are discovered in his library.
This prompts perceptive, sharp as a tack Lily to immediately believe he met death at the hands of someone he knew. A murder investigation bursts into life under detectives at Bow Street station, and Lily seemingly cannot just sit back and let the police do their work, so she persuades her father to help her to collar the perpetrator and bring justice to the Wyatt family in their time of need. This is a compelling and thoroughly charming historical murder mystery in the style of British cosy crime novel set just after the turn of the nineteenth century. The plot is intricately woven, well-paced and absorbing with social commentary on racism, classism, prejudice, family dynamics, neurodiversity and women’s fight for independence. An immersive, engrossing mystery centred around vivid, quirky characters who come to life and a tale wholly reflective of the societal conventions of the era; it all culminates in an unexpected and satisfyingly explosive conclusion. Highly recommended.
This prompts perceptive, sharp as a tack Lily to immediately believe he met death at the hands of someone he knew. A murder investigation bursts into life under detectives at Bow Street station, and Lily seemingly cannot just sit back and let the police do their work, so she persuades her father to help her to collar the perpetrator and bring justice to the Wyatt family in their time of need. This is a compelling and thoroughly charming historical murder mystery in the style of British cosy crime novel set just after the turn of the nineteenth century. The plot is intricately woven, well-paced and absorbing with social commentary on racism, classism, prejudice, family dynamics, neurodiversity and women’s fight for independence. An immersive, engrossing mystery centred around vivid, quirky characters who come to life and a tale wholly reflective of the societal conventions of the era; it all culminates in an unexpected and satisfyingly explosive conclusion. Highly recommended.
March 5, 2021
his book is a cozy mystery and it was a pleasant read. Lily Adler is helping the police investigating the murder of a close friend of her father. It is not an easy task.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
Thank you Netgalley for this book.
October 25, 2023
I guessed the answer immediately, but it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the book at all! I would have liked a little more time spent on how the death of one character would have had a tremendous impact on another who trusted and relied upon her (and there were a couple of moments when the language seemed anachronistic), but I very much like this series.
July 13, 2021
Series: Lily Adler Mystery #2
Publication Date: 7/13/21
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages:352
After reading his author’s debut novel, The Body in the Garden, I was anxious to read this second book. I loved the mystery in that book but didn’t care for the main characters, so I was anxious to see how they might come across in this book. I’m glad I decided to give them another try because I really liked both of them this time around.
The mystery in this book is excellent with lots of red herrings, a plethora of suspects, plenty of outside characters to cause strife, and plenty of friends willing to go out of their way to help. Lily’s friend, Ofelia, whom we met in the last book, is back from her honeymoon and extends a helping hand as well.
Mrs. Lily Adler has settled nicely into her new home in London. She’s reconnected with old friends and made some new ones – so all is right with her world. Well, it was until she arrives home to discover the entryway filled with baggage belonging to her estranged father. Lily has never been able to please her father – he thinks she is mannish, unladylike, forward, and whatever other negative adjectives there are. He just walks in and takes over her home, finding fault with everything and freely expressing his negative views of her. She should turn him out, but – well – he is her father and she can’t quite do it. Her father’s purpose in visiting London, which he hates, is because of his health. (NOTE: He saw his doctor, but there was never any mention of the results of the visit. We don’t know anything because he never mentioned it and Lily never asked. It just seems to me that a parent’s health – especially when that parent traveled days to visit a town he hates – would at least rate a question or comment.)
One of the social courtesies of that period is to pay a social call on newlywed friends and Lily’s father’s good friend, Sir Charles, falls into that category. To placate her father, Lily undertakes the visit for him even though she doesn’t know the new Lady Wyatt. Lily and Captain Jack Hartley have a nice visit with Lady Wyatt and agree to a ride in the park the following morning. When Lily and Jack arrive, the house is in turmoil because Sir Charles has died. Well, not just died – according to Bow Street’s principal officer, Mr. Page, it was murder. The family is sure that it was an accident, but Lily has uncovered the murder weapon before they leave.
Though he hates the idea, Mr. Page asks Lily and Jack to aid him in the investigation. Of course, Lily would have been in the middle of it whether Mr. Page had asked or not – and Jack is going to be right there with Lily. As they uncover more evidence, it seems it is quickly discounted. Then, when another death occurs, they have to wonder who else might be in danger. Jack, Lily, Mr. Page, and several friends follow leads that get them nowhere, but the evidence is mounting. How can they prove who the murderer is even after they figure it out? Chicanery perhaps?
The mystery was outstanding! It was everything you’d want in a mystery -- well-written, excellently paced, exciting, and perplexing. I can highly recommend the book. For me personally, I’m on hold about whether I’ll continue with the series. It is a personal thing – I have to have a good romance to go along with a good mystery. I had assumed Jack and Lily would have a relationship – and I still think that will be the case. However, a new male was introduced into this book and has an interest in Lily – and she seems to have a bit of an interest in him. I won’t read love triangles – and I really like Jack – so, I’ll see where the next book goes before I decide whether I’ll continue with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 7/13/21
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages:352
After reading his author’s debut novel, The Body in the Garden, I was anxious to read this second book. I loved the mystery in that book but didn’t care for the main characters, so I was anxious to see how they might come across in this book. I’m glad I decided to give them another try because I really liked both of them this time around.
The mystery in this book is excellent with lots of red herrings, a plethora of suspects, plenty of outside characters to cause strife, and plenty of friends willing to go out of their way to help. Lily’s friend, Ofelia, whom we met in the last book, is back from her honeymoon and extends a helping hand as well.
Mrs. Lily Adler has settled nicely into her new home in London. She’s reconnected with old friends and made some new ones – so all is right with her world. Well, it was until she arrives home to discover the entryway filled with baggage belonging to her estranged father. Lily has never been able to please her father – he thinks she is mannish, unladylike, forward, and whatever other negative adjectives there are. He just walks in and takes over her home, finding fault with everything and freely expressing his negative views of her. She should turn him out, but – well – he is her father and she can’t quite do it. Her father’s purpose in visiting London, which he hates, is because of his health. (NOTE: He saw his doctor, but there was never any mention of the results of the visit. We don’t know anything because he never mentioned it and Lily never asked. It just seems to me that a parent’s health – especially when that parent traveled days to visit a town he hates – would at least rate a question or comment.)
One of the social courtesies of that period is to pay a social call on newlywed friends and Lily’s father’s good friend, Sir Charles, falls into that category. To placate her father, Lily undertakes the visit for him even though she doesn’t know the new Lady Wyatt. Lily and Captain Jack Hartley have a nice visit with Lady Wyatt and agree to a ride in the park the following morning. When Lily and Jack arrive, the house is in turmoil because Sir Charles has died. Well, not just died – according to Bow Street’s principal officer, Mr. Page, it was murder. The family is sure that it was an accident, but Lily has uncovered the murder weapon before they leave.
Though he hates the idea, Mr. Page asks Lily and Jack to aid him in the investigation. Of course, Lily would have been in the middle of it whether Mr. Page had asked or not – and Jack is going to be right there with Lily. As they uncover more evidence, it seems it is quickly discounted. Then, when another death occurs, they have to wonder who else might be in danger. Jack, Lily, Mr. Page, and several friends follow leads that get them nowhere, but the evidence is mounting. How can they prove who the murderer is even after they figure it out? Chicanery perhaps?
The mystery was outstanding! It was everything you’d want in a mystery -- well-written, excellently paced, exciting, and perplexing. I can highly recommend the book. For me personally, I’m on hold about whether I’ll continue with the series. It is a personal thing – I have to have a good romance to go along with a good mystery. I had assumed Jack and Lily would have a relationship – and I still think that will be the case. However, a new male was introduced into this book and has an interest in Lily – and she seems to have a bit of an interest in him. I won’t read love triangles – and I really like Jack – so, I’ll see where the next book goes before I decide whether I’ll continue with the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 19, 2021
⭐⭐⭐.5
I can't really decide between 3 or 4 stars for this one. 🤷🏻♀️ I enjoyed it. The mystery was well plotted. The characters were likable and interesting. I really loved that there were mixed characters and one with autism? It had a wonderful setting and held up perfectly as a standalone. All that said, I found it a bit too long. I just prefer my cozy type mysteries to on the shorter time, and I felt like this one dragged on at times. That is just a personal preference though, so don't hold it against the book! 😉
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I can't really decide between 3 or 4 stars for this one. 🤷🏻♀️ I enjoyed it. The mystery was well plotted. The characters were likable and interesting. I really loved that there were mixed characters and one with autism? It had a wonderful setting and held up perfectly as a standalone. All that said, I found it a bit too long. I just prefer my cozy type mysteries to on the shorter time, and I felt like this one dragged on at times. That is just a personal preference though, so don't hold it against the book! 😉
**ARC Via NetGalley**
October 12, 2021
Katharine Schellman’s sharp, enjoyable historical mysteries series continues with Silence in the Library.
Regency widow and Amateur sleuth Lily Adler is back (unofficially, of course) on the case, determined to assist Bow Street with solving the murder of an old family friend, whether they want her help or not.
There are loads of cozy historical mysteries that use a similar formula to this one, but this is a far more successful offering than most in the genre.
Schellman has written an excellent main character in Lily, who is smart, tough, and capable. Some of the secondary characters also resonate well, and though it’s a bit easy to guess whodunit, the mystery is well-constructed and the story flows well.
I always enjoy all the societal rules and how they come into play in books like this (the scene where Lily and her maid visit Percy’s lodgings comes to mind first), and Schellman has done well in capturing both the absurdity and the oppressiveness of such conventions.
There’s nothing truly unique about this series, but I’m not sure I require that out of this genre. The story is well written, well paced, and populated by likable, interesting characters. I look forward to reading about more of Lily’s exploits.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Regency widow and Amateur sleuth Lily Adler is back (unofficially, of course) on the case, determined to assist Bow Street with solving the murder of an old family friend, whether they want her help or not.
There are loads of cozy historical mysteries that use a similar formula to this one, but this is a far more successful offering than most in the genre.
Schellman has written an excellent main character in Lily, who is smart, tough, and capable. Some of the secondary characters also resonate well, and though it’s a bit easy to guess whodunit, the mystery is well-constructed and the story flows well.
I always enjoy all the societal rules and how they come into play in books like this (the scene where Lily and her maid visit Percy’s lodgings comes to mind first), and Schellman has done well in capturing both the absurdity and the oppressiveness of such conventions.
There’s nothing truly unique about this series, but I’m not sure I require that out of this genre. The story is well written, well paced, and populated by likable, interesting characters. I look forward to reading about more of Lily’s exploits.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
September 4, 2022
SILENCE IN THE LIBRARY
Katharine Schellman
This is a series set in the Victorian era about a recent widow, Lilly Adler, who against all odds, solves murders. In this book, Lily is at a family friend's home when she finds her father's friend dead. Lily sets about assisting the Bow Street Runner, Simon Page, to solve the crime all the while trying to deal with her father, a man of limited imagination and patience with "modern" women.
Then there was a second suspicious death of a maid in the same household and the case gets more
complex.
However, Simon Page and Captain Jack Hartley appreciate Lily's intelligence and insight and are happy to include her in solving the crime.
This was a fun read, I participated and offered my suggestions about who had committed the murder(s). I was usually wrong but I like that the plot kept me guessing. These are great characters! Lily is a well-drawn example, she is part perfect victorian lady and part practical problem solver. Both Simon and Jack are progressive men of their time.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
Katharine Schellman
This is a series set in the Victorian era about a recent widow, Lilly Adler, who against all odds, solves murders. In this book, Lily is at a family friend's home when she finds her father's friend dead. Lily sets about assisting the Bow Street Runner, Simon Page, to solve the crime all the while trying to deal with her father, a man of limited imagination and patience with "modern" women.
Then there was a second suspicious death of a maid in the same household and the case gets more
complex.
However, Simon Page and Captain Jack Hartley appreciate Lily's intelligence and insight and are happy to include her in solving the crime.
This was a fun read, I participated and offered my suggestions about who had committed the murder(s). I was usually wrong but I like that the plot kept me guessing. These are great characters! Lily is a well-drawn example, she is part perfect victorian lady and part practical problem solver. Both Simon and Jack are progressive men of their time.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
January 17, 2022
Lily Adler, a fascinating widow, not only has an unexpected guest but walks slap bang into a murder. Sir Charles Wyatt, a friend of her father’s has only recently remarried and Lily, accompanied by Captain Jack Hartley calls to wish the couple congratulations on behalf of her father. Whilst there a young footman is accused of robbery. The observant Lily is able to shed light on the matter. The following day Lily returns to accompany Lady Wyatt riding. This time she walks into a body in the library. Fortunately Captain Jack is again present, as is Simon Page the Bow Street Runner.
Had I suspected the ending? We’ll sort of, but not clearly. Lots of red herrings are strewn in Lily’s path. I must say the finding of the culprit is a rather lively and intriguing read.
Had I suspected the ending? We’ll sort of, but not clearly. Lots of red herrings are strewn in Lily’s path. I must say the finding of the culprit is a rather lively and intriguing read.
July 6, 2021
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Crooked Lane Books for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review Silence in the Library. All opinions are my own.
Family troubles and then tension in the room upon meeting the new wife of an old friend mark the beginning of Silence in the Library, the second book in a series featuring Lily Adler, a young widow trying to make a life for herself in Regency-era London. Lily’s immediately butting heads with her domineering father and soon the old friend turns up dead, and she finds herself in the middle of the investigation, with help from Simon Page of Bow Street and Captain Jack Hartley (both prominent from the first book in the series). Our author, Katherine Schellman wastes no time in crafting her tale, pointing out the stiffness of society – how murder just isn’t “done” among this group of people. Be that as it may, it’s up to Constable Page – with help from Lily, of course – to find the why and wherefore, something that’s done quite handily, in Silence in the Library.
The book is very true to time and place and in language, definitely. Class distinctions are clearly defined, from the second wife to the below stairs staff that hide secrets. And Lily’s father is simply awful. What women had to put up with back then!
Love, money, inheritances – what has gotten Sir Charles killed? There are lots of clues for the reader to discover. Silence in the Library will keep readers guessing until the finish, with an intelligent heroine that’s not too over the top, characters and characterizations that are original, settings that are authentic, and a plot that will keep you guessing up to those last pages. Speaking of characters -- An Author’s Note at the end discusses her research for some of the themes used in the book – don’t read it until you’ve read all of Silence in the Library.
Family troubles and then tension in the room upon meeting the new wife of an old friend mark the beginning of Silence in the Library, the second book in a series featuring Lily Adler, a young widow trying to make a life for herself in Regency-era London. Lily’s immediately butting heads with her domineering father and soon the old friend turns up dead, and she finds herself in the middle of the investigation, with help from Simon Page of Bow Street and Captain Jack Hartley (both prominent from the first book in the series). Our author, Katherine Schellman wastes no time in crafting her tale, pointing out the stiffness of society – how murder just isn’t “done” among this group of people. Be that as it may, it’s up to Constable Page – with help from Lily, of course – to find the why and wherefore, something that’s done quite handily, in Silence in the Library.
The book is very true to time and place and in language, definitely. Class distinctions are clearly defined, from the second wife to the below stairs staff that hide secrets. And Lily’s father is simply awful. What women had to put up with back then!
Love, money, inheritances – what has gotten Sir Charles killed? There are lots of clues for the reader to discover. Silence in the Library will keep readers guessing until the finish, with an intelligent heroine that’s not too over the top, characters and characterizations that are original, settings that are authentic, and a plot that will keep you guessing up to those last pages. Speaking of characters -- An Author’s Note at the end discusses her research for some of the themes used in the book – don’t read it until you’ve read all of Silence in the Library.
May 24, 2021
Lily’s father has moved in, and can find nothing that Lily is doing right. He thinks her servants are not as polished as they should be, her food and drink not up to par, and it’s wrong that she has put aside her mourning clothes after only two years. After all, he’s still wearing mourning and his wife’s been dead more than twenty-five years.
He also takes issue with Lily’s friendship with Jack, a naval captain who is half English and half Indian, being rude to him at every turn. Lily gets angry, although Jack seems to take it all with a sense of humor.
Things get more tense when the new wife of a friend of Mr Alder’s dies and Lily is the one to have to break the news. When Simon Page, a member of the Bow Street Runners is called to the scene things really get involved.. Lily, Jack, and Simon all come together at the Wyatt home and while talking, Lily finds the murder weapon hidden in the fireplace. This discovery begins an investigation of the death, with Lily taking an active part. It is imperative that Lily do this without her father’s knowledge since not only would it add stress to Lily’s relationship with her father, she can’t be sure he won’t share any information obtained with Frank.
It seems the question to answer in order to determine the murderer is who had enough strength to move the dead body across the room. Frank, the son, has an alibi, as does Percy, the nephew, who has been dependent on Lord Wyatt for his allowance. Suspicion falls briefly on Lady Wyatt, his recent bride, but she is deemed too small to overpower the much larger Lord Wyatt and not strong enough to move a dead body across the room.
Simon knows the family will refuse him the opportunity to fully investigate the death so he reluctantly asks Lily to obtain some information for him. She is happy to do some investigating, even though she is investigating her friends. Although Simon hopes Lily will fade away once she’s told him what she discovered, Lily is determined to stay involved. She soon learns about Arthur, Lord Wyatt’s second son, who has undiagnosed psychiatric problems, and lives at home cared for by a maid. When the maid is killed, the three become more concerned about catching the killer before anyone else is murdered.
A chance comment gives Lily the idea to reexamine the case from a different point of view. Further investigation reveals the truth to Lily, but now she needs to get a confession and can only do so with her father’s help. Will he put aside his own prejudices and help Lily?
The book is well plotted with a steady pace. There is just enough information for the reader to have a flavor of the Regency period without feeling they are reading a history book. Pacing is good and, even if the reader figures out “who dun it”, they will need to read carefully to find the clues sprinkled throughout that reveal the how and why of the murder.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book for review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
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December 1, 2021
I really like this mystery series. I like how it sets itself up. I like that its a bit different from some of the others I read. I just like it.
In this installment in particular:
- I continue to like how diversity is handled. There are characters of different races present, and that has societal implications sometimes. And the main characters, while being shown to be more tolerant/inclusive/progressive/whatever you want to call it, also very much feel of their time period.
- I like that this series doesn't feel the need to include in all its endings. Which makes sense for the characters and the time. Also, it's a mystery, not a thriller.
-I called the proximate cause of the murder early on, for the same reason the protagonist figures it out, if not all the details of the resolution.
- As a slight issue, this is another case of a protagonist's parent being fairly terrible/obnoxious.
- There's a potential love triangle being set up, and I'm maybe not mad at it?
- Absolutely adore the friendship between the two protagonists. And their banter is excellent. They are basically what I'm here for.
In this installment in particular:
- I continue to like how diversity is handled. There are characters of different races present, and that has societal implications sometimes. And the main characters, while being shown to be more tolerant/inclusive/progressive/whatever you want to call it, also very much feel of their time period.
- I like that this series doesn't feel the need to include in all its endings. Which makes sense for the characters and the time. Also, it's a mystery, not a thriller.
-I called the proximate cause of the murder early on, for the same reason the protagonist figures it out, if not all the details of the resolution.
- As a slight issue, this is another case of a protagonist's parent being fairly terrible/obnoxious.
- There's a potential love triangle being set up, and I'm maybe not mad at it?
- Absolutely adore the friendship between the two protagonists. And their banter is excellent. They are basically what I'm here for.
September 19, 2022
Silence in the Library is the second book in the Lily Adler historical mystery series. I love mysteries set in the Regency era! The husband of a new friend of Lily's is found dead and since Lily was on the scene, she becomes involved in the investigation.
I enjoyed learning more about Lily's relationship with her estranged father. The mystery was pretty good and I would definitely read more from this series.
I enjoyed learning more about Lily's relationship with her estranged father. The mystery was pretty good and I would definitely read more from this series.
April 27, 2021
This is the second book in the Lily Adler Mystery series. I had not read the first book and found the author inserted enough background information for me to easily put all the characters in their places in this plot. The characters don't feel very well developed because they were still just set dressing by the time I finished the novel; I didn't feel any connection, either liking or disliking, with them. Ambivalence is probably not what the author was trying to accomplish. There is a formality which Mrs. Lily Adler maintains which is probably perfectly correct for the time period but it does tend to make me feel I *still* haven't gotten to know the characters. Also, it is not difficult at all to solve the puzzle and that's unfortunate.
At the end of the book there is some interesting historical information included by the author which I found enjoyable. Also included are the names of people the author wishes to thank, among those editors and beta readers. I find that sometimes an author will get hung up on using a particular phrase or word while writing their story and that is the case here. I wish some of the well-wishers had mentioned to the author that she was using the same phrase too often. It turned out to be laugh-out-loud funny when I pictured all the characters sitting in a room looking at each other out of the corner of their eye. That phrase jumped off the page for me because it was used too often and it just pulled me right out of the atmosphere that was being created.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an e-galley of this novel.
At the end of the book there is some interesting historical information included by the author which I found enjoyable. Also included are the names of people the author wishes to thank, among those editors and beta readers. I find that sometimes an author will get hung up on using a particular phrase or word while writing their story and that is the case here. I wish some of the well-wishers had mentioned to the author that she was using the same phrase too often. It turned out to be laugh-out-loud funny when I pictured all the characters sitting in a room looking at each other out of the corner of their eye. That phrase jumped off the page for me because it was used too often and it just pulled me right out of the atmosphere that was being created.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an e-galley of this novel.
July 16, 2024
3 1/2 stars. A charming and entertaining historical mystery that will delight readers with period details and twists and turns. There is just enough historical material to give it flavor without inundating the reading with information that slows the pace of the story. The characters are well-developed and not carbon copies of what can be found in other historical mysteries. It is a delightful surprise to discover that the main character, Lily Adler, is not the only smart character in the book. This is not the setup of Sherlock Holmes; her friends—and some enemies—are intelligent and pick up on things she does not. The second in the series, it is not necessary to read the first one but it gives some references and flavor to her friends who are not in this as much as the first one. Unfortunately, Jack didn’t show up as much as I would have liked. Overall, a delightful read and I will gladly follow the continuing adventures of Lily Adler and company.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review
July 18, 2021
Oh this was a good one - these books are really well-written and that makes it a more enjoyable reading experience. Even though I knew who the killer was early on and then knew the why midway through, it was still a very enjoyable story - watching Lily grow as she deals with being a widow is awesome to watch and I love her interaction with both Jack and Mr. Page [the constable]. Watching her deal with her father [and isn't HE a ray of sunshine {SMH} ]is very sad, but how she stands up for herself and her relationships [he doesn't approve of Jack] is all rather glorious.
Because of the nature of the book, not much of a review can be given - everything I would write would just end up giving things away and that would do a new reader a huge disservice. This is a lovely book that deserves to be read with no preconceived notions and ideas in their head. THAT is the best review one can give IMO.
Very well done - I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Katharine Schellman, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Because of the nature of the book, not much of a review can be given - everything I would write would just end up giving things away and that would do a new reader a huge disservice. This is a lovely book that deserves to be read with no preconceived notions and ideas in their head. THAT is the best review one can give IMO.
Very well done - I highly recommend this series.
Thank you to NetGalley, Katharine Schellman, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2021
The second entry in the Lily Adler series is just as engaging, charming, and intriguing as the first! This mystery strikes close to home for Lily, allowing us to explore more of her family background and personal history. It also introduces neurodivergent characters, which is a welcome touch in a period piece. The twists and turns carry the story along at a clip pace, while still making time to give us wonderful character moments. (I'm particularly enjoying the ongoing slow burn romance building between Lily and Jack. It feels very real, not rushed, and it's nice to see the friendship and companionship growing across the course of each book.) I thoroughly recommend this Regency mystery!
October 6, 2023
4.5 Stars Rounded Up
This series contimues to please.
This had just as much diversity as the 1st novel as well as the team approach I liked from the 1st novel.
The mystery was complex and flowed quite naturally without feeling forced or manipulated.
Well done!
This series contimues to please.
This had just as much diversity as the 1st novel as well as the team approach I liked from the 1st novel.
The mystery was complex and flowed quite naturally without feeling forced or manipulated.
Well done!
July 16, 2021
Silence in the Library is the second instalment in Katharine Schellman's Lily Adler Mystery series set in London. The year is 1815 and Lady Lily Adler's estranged father, George Pierce is visiting the doctor. He is staying with Lily and she's not very happy about it. His friend, Sir Charles Wyatt who currently lives in Wimpole Street in the city, has recently remarried so Lily goes to visit him and his new wife in place of George who is suffering from ill-health to pass on his good wishes. Charles is out when she arrives at their house, so she chats to Lady Winnie Wyatt and Frank, Charles's son. Lily invites Lady Wyatt to go riding the next morning, but when she arrives she finds the door slightly open but nobody answers her knock. She enters the house and encounters Frank who, in a state, announces that Sir Charles is dead.
I loved this cosy-style historical mystery and found that the author's writing style worked well for me. The Bow Street investigation into Sir Charles's death was interesting to follow, as were Lily's sleuthing exploits. The characters were all quirky and delightfully brought to life. I haven't read book one yet but aim to very soon. A compelling and charming read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I loved this cosy-style historical mystery and found that the author's writing style worked well for me. The Bow Street investigation into Sir Charles's death was interesting to follow, as were Lily's sleuthing exploits. The characters were all quirky and delightfully brought to life. I haven't read book one yet but aim to very soon. A compelling and charming read.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 26, 2021
This is the 2nd in the series but you don’t have to read the 1st as I definitely enjoyed this book. The story was so clear to understand as well as the characters backgrounds! Lily was so brave, going against many women of her time, she was so fun to go on adventures with. I will be looking for the next book in this series for sure!
April 7, 2024
I loved this 2nd book even more than the first!
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Lily is such a perfect heroine. She's kind, compassionate, observant, and clever. The supporting cast is most excellent. It was fun to let a different support character shine more in this story.
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If you haven't yet met Lily, you're in for a treat!
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Lily is such a perfect heroine. She's kind, compassionate, observant, and clever. The supporting cast is most excellent. It was fun to let a different support character shine more in this story.
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If you haven't yet met Lily, you're in for a treat!
July 15, 2021
Silence In The Library by Katherine Schellman is an engaging historical mystery (and in exciting news, there is more Lily Adler to come!) This is the second book in the series and I have truly enjoyed both books. The writing works for me and I like the characters.
I received a complimentary ARC of this title.
I received a complimentary ARC of this title.
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