A Tainted Heart Bleeds

House of Croft, #2

by

Sophie Barnes

Another killer is on the loose in London!

A Tainted Heart Bleeds is the second book in author Sophie Barnes's dark and moody House of Croft historical mystery series, and as before, another killer is loose among the ton of London. Only four months after Lady Evelyn Croft's murderer was dealt with, another young debutante is murdered in her own home. The girl's distraught father is bent on revenge and implores Adrian Croft to find the person responsible for her death. Great characters, an exciting, complex plot, and an atmospheric London setting combine to make this book one you'll not want to put down until you know all the answers! 

Samantha and Adrian Croft are newlyweds, but their pre-wedding passion abruptly disappeared before they consummated their marriage. Samantha is guilt-ridden over keeping secrets from her new husband and fears his change in demeanor means he's found out all about her mission to gather intelligence that would lead to his arrest and execution. Adrian, determined to break free from his criminal past, had counted on Samantha to help him leave that part of his life behind until he discovered her deceptions. Their growing distance was swift, and their despair palpable. It was suspenseful waiting to see if this couple, who had so much chemistry together in the previous book, would be able to find a way back to each other. 

The year is 1815, and the plot is gritty, involving the gruesome murder of a young, engaged debutante. A side storyline features Izak, the ten-year-old street urchin who previously served as a courier between Samantha and Chief Constable Peter Kendrick, and is dark and terrifyingly realistic. As the Crofts team up to rescue Izak and the other children with him, they also chase down any source of information about Lady Eleanor Marsh to identify a motive for her murder and suspects. I was glad to see Samantha finally realize that she was just a means to an end for both Harlowe and Kendrick, so maybe her heart could start to mend over their emotional betrayal. With each discovery they make, another plot twist increases the intrigue and suspense. 

With its engaging characters, compelling plot, and atmospheric setting, I recommend A TAINTED HEART BLEEDS to historical mystery fans. While this book can be read as a standalone novel, it would be best enjoyed after having read the first book in the series. 

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through RABT Book Tours and PR.