The Matters at Mansfield by Carrie Bebris

I generally enjoy period mysteries where characters are either real historical figures or characters we came to know and love from 19th century novelists. This is the case with Bebris' take-off on Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park" and the characters Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy.

The problem is, this novel is both plodding and forgettable. I found it difficult to care whether Darcy and his wife solve the mysteries of what has happened to a star-crossed relative's lover, and to others at Mansfield Park.

Instead of following Bebris' "A Mr. and Mrs. Darcy Mystery" I recommend instead, Stephanie Barron's "Jane Austen Mystery" series, which I have always found delightfully in step with the spirit and language of Jane Austen herself.

Liz Nichols