Deadly Kin: A Georgian Historical Mystery is a historical mystery novel penned by author Lucinda Brant. In this, the fourth novel in the Alec Halsey Mystery Series, we return to the year 1764 at the height of summer. Alec and his wife Selina have settled at Deer Park to await the birth of their first child, with Alec on his guard after the events of his last encounter. But when a young poacher is found dead, Alec is compelled once again to use his skills and investigate the cause of death. What results is a winding road of mysterious information that leads Alec back to his own family and truth he may have rather not uncovered.

Encountering the world of the Alec Halsey Mystery Series is sure to please fans of high historical drama, realistic romance, and cozy mysteries with lots of suspense and intrigue. Fans of the continuing series will certainly enjoy the revealing of Alec’s personal drama and his family bonds, whilst newcomers can dive straight into a brand new mystery and a murder that is most exciting to uncover. The plot structure is well arranged for reveals, secrets and sudden changes of scenery, and the characters are beautifully charming, with just the right balance of historical glamour and post-modern sensibilities to make them super relatable for modern-day readers. Plantagenet was a personal favorite of mine: he leaped off the page, the old devil! Overall, Deadly Kin ticks all the boxes for a perfect Georgian mystery: a highly recommended read.

Deadly Kin: A Georgian Historical Mystery is the fourth entry in the Alec Halsey Mystery Series by Lucinda Brant. Set in the summer of 1764, the story follows Alec, who, together with Selina, is impatiently looking forward to the birth of their first child. There is excitement about settling down in the estate in Kent and nurturing the family. But Alec is pulled out to investigate a murder. Things get complicated when a family secret comes to light during the renovations of his estate. A burial chamber in his own estate has Alec wondering if he is the person he has grown up believing he is. And can he uncover the whole truth to the mystery?

I loved this novel right from the first page with the hunt of the stag. The author introduces readers to the setting and captures the seasons, the location in which the narrative takes place and some cultural elements with brilliance. The prose is tight and very descriptive, punctuated by dialogues that deepen plot points and enhance character depth. Lucinda Brant knows how to capture and retain the interest of the reader, keeping them focused through every page. The voice is strong and compelling and the points of view come out in an unmistakable way through the narrative. The characters are elaborately developed and, apart from the protagonist, I loved Uncle Plantagenet. He is an unusual character, the kind that displays so little but knows so much. Deadly Kin: A Georgian Historical Mystery is an intelligently plotted and deftly written mystery. I found it as well written as it is transporting.