Amanda L.V. Shalaby is an artist. Her words paint vivid images of people and places. I could picture the characters, see the clothes and jewelry, smell the food, enjoy the furnishings and admire the architecture.This book reminded me of a Daphne du Maurier novel. There was even a smuggling component. Bleddyn Hall is a romantic mystery. Our heroine, Isabel Sutton, has begun a delayed Season in London. Following the illness and death of her mother, she now resides with a beloved Aunt and Uncle. It is love at first sight when she meets the handsome Lord Tresham Bleddyn, Earl of Dancy. A whirlwind courtship and engagement soon follow. However, a tragedy requires that Tresham and his family return to the estate. Isabel accompanies his mother and sisters on their journey. But Bleddyn Hall, while beautiful, proves to be an exceedingly dangerous and disturbing place. Isabel finds her love tested and her life in danger as she tries to solve the mystery that haunts her new home. This book is a wonderful read and I am a committed Amanda Shalaby fan for life. I'm already looking forward to her next publication.