I can't even... I've enjoyed this book very much - until I reached the last chapter.
It was a good mystery - both in view of the actual case and Russell's confusing feelings for Holmes. My love for and the fascination with the character of Mary Russell increased in this second installment of the series. But what happens in the last chapter is soap opera level of cheesiness. Not only does it seem out of character for both Russell and Holmes, but it is a little problematic (to say the least). It left me with an expression-mix of disbelief and mild disgust on my face for the last thirty minutes since I finished this book.