Mrs. Clay, who is widowed, dies shortly after, but not before she gives birth to a son whom two men wish to claim as their own. When it is determined that Mrs. Clay’s fall and injuries may have been intentional, the Darcys’ find their seaside respite turn into a murder investigation.  As they attempt to sort out Mrs. Clay’s past and the men who claim to be the baby’s father, they realize that Darcys’ cousin’s death may not have been an accident, but the work of smugglers. This causes them to take a closer look at his effects, including his diary, finding clues to not only Gerard’s death, but surprisingly to Mrs. Clay’s and the parentage of her little boy.

The Deception at Lyme continues the series featuring two of Jan Austen’s most beloved characters.  Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth have the personalities and characteristics that would be expected of them, but Carrie Bebris has added some touches of her own. 

Lyme is populated with charming characters, adding in others from Austen’s works, and the setting is typical of the period.  Gerard’s diary entries weave easily in and out of the plot, telling not only his story, but offering clues to Mrs. Clay’s murder and the events in her life that led up to it.  Elizabeth is a careful investigator, paying close attention to everything and everyone around her, knowing that any little tidbit could provide a clue. 

Darcy’s sister Georgiana and the exploits of her love life add another layer of interest to the book. Delightful maps and medallion images of the charming seaside village add to the appeal of the book.  A surprise announcement at the end will have readers smiling and eager for the next installment.  

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry