"Twilight at Moorington Cross" by Abigail Wilson

 


Young widow Amelia has found a home at Moorington Cross, a mesmeric hospital, where the owner has cared for her like a daughter. Then Mr. Cluett gives her news that will change her life: he is terminally ill, but he's going to leave Moorington Cross to her in his will, on the condition that she marry one of the two gentlemen he has picked out within thirty days of his death. She'll be provided for, but only under those extremely specific circumstances.

After meeting the two men, Amelia is confused as to the reason Mr. Cluett would have chosen either one of them for them for her to marry. But she never has the chance to ask him, and an investigation commences to discover which of Moorington Cross's residents murdered him. The clock is also ticking on a decision that Amelia is loathe to make.

This novel combines Gothic mystery with many layers. There's Amelia's pressing decision and the courtship that must commence even with grief and uncertainty swirling in the air. There's the helpful solicitor that Amelia is intensely attracted to, but he's not one of her candidates. There are questions about the hospital staff and cottages in the woods and Mr. Cluett's deceased family. I couldn't put the book down and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's my favorite Abigail Wilson novel to date!

If you enjoy multi-layered historical mysteries, this is one I highly recommend.

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.