While there are some truly interesting elements in Lady of Ashes, the book suffers from a lack of focus. It's overstuffed with plotlines which distract from the lead character Violet, an undertaker in Victorian London, and her struggles and triumphs. I enjoyed the historical setting and the new collection of facts now at my fingertips (history of embalming, appropriate use of professional mourners at funerals, air quality concerns in London, etc), but believe the book would have been stronger with a tighter focus. 
 (My full review is now up on my blog.)