When Gods Die is the second book in the Sebastian St. Cyr series. Events take place in June 1811, a few months after the end of What Angels Fear.
When the newly declared Prince Regent is discovered in a compromising position with a corpse, drastic steps must be taken in order to ensure the stability of the Regency. The corpse in question is the beautiful Marchioness of Anglessey, wife to one of the most powerful men in the realm.
The Machiavellian Lord Jarvis, chief adviser to the Regent, seeks to deflect attention from the Royal Family. Jarvis wisely recognizes that an already hostile British public is unlikely to buy a verdict of suicide, especially as it is widely known that the lady was found with King James II’s old dagger protruding from her back. Requiring someone with more subtlety and finesse than a Bow Street Runner, Jarvis engages the services of Sebastian St. Cyr. Jarvis dislikes Sebastian but recognizes his intelligence and talent for detection.
Sebastian is drawn to the case for two reasons: his sense of justice and a mysterious necklace found on the deceased. Aided in his inquiries by his actress lover, Kat Boleyn, and his faithful assistant, Tom, Sebastian uncovers a sinister plot which hints at revolution. He also uncovers secrets pertaining to his own family, putting already strained relationships to the test.
While not quite as good as its predecessor, When Gods Die is an entertaining read. The plot is fast-paced and satisfyingly complex. Sebastian St. Cyr is an excellent protagonist who is accompanied by a strong supporting cast. Lord Jarvis amuses me, as does his daughter, Hero. While I still haven’t warmed to Kat Boleyn, she was more palatable in this book than in the last.
The third installment in the series, When Serpents Sleep, is currently sitting on my To Be Read shelf. I doubt it will stay there long! Grade: B
{ 3 comments }
I still haven’t read the first one!
Ohhh, this one sounds excellent! I’m going to have to add it to my TBR, which is exactly what I need… *eyeroll* Ah, to be a book lover.
@Marg @Amy Bookaholism is an expensive but satisfying addiction. Just as well there’s no 12-step program for it!