I started this book with high expectations because it sounded like just the kind of story I love. However, I gave up on it (something I almost never do) because of the slow pace of the book. I thought it really dragged. I still think the story idea is a good one, but once I started the book it failed to hold my interest.

I’m a sucker for novels set in 1920s and 30s British East Africa, and this book doesn’t disappoint. The setting and writing quality are high. Jade the protagonist is interesting but not incredibly believable with her uncanny resiliency and ability to flout social conventions.

The mystery is fairly transparent and slow to develop. I’m hoping subsequent books in this series have a better mystery included or they won’t be worth reading.