Fatal Inheritance A Novel by Rachel Rhys

Eve Forrester is living a conventional life in 1940s England where she is married (to the first man who asked) and is in a relationship that is passionless and stifling. However, Eve’s life changes early in the book when, in a common fictional trope, she receives a letter. This letter sends Eve to France where she has been left a quarter share in a house on the French Riviera. Why? Who was the mysterious Guy who left a piece of a home that is like technicolor to Rachel’s formerly drab life?

The reader meets many of the people with whom Eve interacts in France including a writer, an actress, an art dealer and members of Guy’s family. Reminiscent of the novels of Mary Stewart or Daphne DuMaurier’s Rebecca, there are threats to our protagonist.

As is true of books of this genre, the reader turns the pages feeling confident that. after turmoil, all will be better for Eve. The fun of the novel is watching as she gets there.

Rachel Rhys does a lovely job in describing the settings of the book. I wanted to spend time in the house where Eve stayed. The characters are slightly stock, the mystery a bit convoluted yet I very much enjoyed the escapism of this read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book in exchange for an honest review.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Praise for Fatal Inheritance:

“An exquisite and shimmering read. I completely lost myself in Rhys’s lovingly evoked 1940s French Riviera and was gripped by the slow-burn mystery. An essential summer read!” Author: Lisa Jewell, New York Times bestselling author of Then She Was Gone

“Rhys offers another utterly captivating, mysterious historical novel, bringing to life the intoxicating beauty of the sea and the hidden dangers lurking at its edge.” Source: Booklist

“Rhys (Dangerous Crossing) lyrically highlights how one woman’s staid existence is forever changed by her sudden inheritance….This alluring story will appeal to fans of historical fiction who like a twist of mystery.” Source: Publishers Weekly

“A transporting Golden Age-infused mystery caper.” Source: The Sunday Times (UK)

“The perfect mix of glamour and intrigue.” Source: Good Housekeeping (UK)

“A fantastic book —glamorous and beautifully written…tantalising.” Source: Daily Mail (UK)

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Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses! View all posts by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews