I am reviewing this book as a non-Austen expert; though I have read Emma I wouldn't say I'm any kind of expert. And I'm happy to say that even if you haven't read Emma (the inspiration for the characters), this book was easy to follow and enjoy. Any pertenant previous drama is mentioned and explained so that you can understand the relationships between characters. I adored Emma and George and their equal and loving relationship! There is a lot of drama with their friends and aquaintenances - mostly about who courted and tried to marry who - which is to be expected and added flare and some laughs.  Emma's father is one of those characters that made you roll your eyes, but also laugh sometimes because he was over the top. I love how Emma stood up for herself, when all the men in authority treated her poorly because she is a woman; and I love how George stood up for her. I was SHOCKED by the reveal! A great start to this mystery series.

Thanks to the publisher for a free ARC; my review and thoughts are my own.