As Death Draws Near

Lady Darby Mystery, Book 5

By: Anna Lee Huber

Narrated by: Heather Wilds

Length: 11 hrs and 6 mins

Publisher's summary

July 1831. In the midst of their idyllic honeymoon in England's Lake District, Kiera and Gage's seclusion is soon interrupted by a missive from her new father-in-law. A deadly incident involving a distant relative of the Duke of Wellington has taken place at an abbey south of Dublin, Ireland, and he insists that Kiera and Gage look into the matter.

Intent on discovering what kind of monster could murder a woman of the cloth, the couple travel to Rathfarnham Abbey school. Soon a second nun is slain in broad daylight near a classroom full of young girls. With the sinful killer growing bolder, the mother superior would like to send the students home, but the growing civil unrest in Ireland would make the journey treacherous. Before long, Kiera starts to suspect that some of the girls may be hiding a sinister secret. With the killer poised to strike yet again, Kiera and Gage must make haste and unmask the fiend before their matrimonial bliss comes to an untimely end.

©2016 Anna Aycock (P)2016 Tantor

Step back into time

I always enjoy reading about Keira and Gage solving mysteries in Scotland 1830's. Can't wait to read the next installment.😍

Enjoying this series!

The narrator seems to catch the nuances of Huber's writing and, although an historical fiction, is able to convey the doubts and uncertainties in the articulation of the main characters experiences.

Not as good as the first four

I had a difficult time keeping the many characters straight. The ending was a bit cheezy and predictable. Lady Darby is normally straight forward so I found her internal debate regarding having children a bit over done. I would buy it again - but won't be listening to this one a second time.

Interesting History, Serviceable Mystery

As Death Draws Near is a serviceable mystery. I enjoyed the newlywed relationship between Kiera and Gage and their discussions about children and Kiera’s life and expectations as a mother. The exploration of this chapter of Irish history was very interesting. I had not heard of the tithe protests before. However, the mystery itself seemed to be heading in an interesting direction but ended up having a rather pedestrian solution that I’ve read quite a few times in other books.

I listened to the audiobook. Heather Wilds continues to do an admirable job.

Overall, while I was a bit disappointed by the mystery, the other parts of the book help me to recommend it for those who enjoy the history as much as the mystery in an historical mystery.

Better and Better

If I didn't already love this series, I would now. The Gages' honeymoon is cut short by a summons from Sebastian's father. They travel to beautiful but volatile Ireland to look into the death of a young nun, but not just any nun. This one has relatives in high places. But that is just the tip of the iceberg. There are more twists, turns, and surprises in this story than you can imagine. Step into the world of Lady Darby and Mr. Gage and get ready to enjoy.

Riveting

As always, Mrs. Huber has flawlessly written another wonderful adventure, full of humor, romance, and intrigue. I loved every minute of it. And Ms. Wilde has given another flawless performance.

Another Delightful Read

Another captivating and delightful read. Beautifully read and well done. Excited to move onto the next book.

A++ Historical Authur

I look forward to each of Anna Lee Huber's new Lady Darby Mysteries. She Awesome!

Another winner!

What made the experience of listening to As Death Draws Near the most enjoyable?

Generally, Ms Huber has a way of writing about strong women characters without it being unbelievable during this time period and that's what makes me love her books. This one was the same until it got to the end when she had the conversation with her husband it sounded too current day. Other than that It was an excellent read.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Yes, I wasn't surprised about "who dunnit" with the first murder but completely surprised by the relationship of the second one.

What does Heather Wilds bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

She is really talented and the ability she has with the different accents is impressive!

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The wisdom spoken to Mrs Gage by the Reverend Mother regarding her calling was thoughtful and heartwarming.

Any additional comments?

Can't wait for the next one!!

Great story; so-so narrator

I hate to finish a book I've anxiously awaited because it means more waiting for the next one. This is another good Lady Darby story.

Set in Ireland, Keira and Gage investigate the death of a nun. The author is fabulous with her research and historic references. The story is decent and has an outcome I didn't expect. Good mystery.

I must say that the narrator of the audiobook is really bugging me. She is pretty boring. There were a few mispronounciations as well.

Overall, a great addition to the series and worth the wait! Brava, Anna.