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Book Review of Whispers of Warning (Change of Fortune, Bk 2)

Whispers of Warning (Change of Fortune, Bk 2)
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Whispers of Warning by Jessica Estevao is the second story in A Change of Fortune Mystery series. Ruby Proulx and her Aunt Honoria are thrilled when suffragist and spiritualist, Sophronia Foster Eldridge checks into the Belden for a month long stay (quite a coupe for the hotel). At a suffrage rally, Sophronia states she is writing a book about corruption and secret dealings by powerful men. She will sell her manuscript to the highest bidder and use the money to further suffrage movement. Despite a threatening letter and a sabotaged stage, Sophronia will not be deterred. Is Sophronia that dedicated to the cause or does she have a hidden agenda? Sophronia is soon found dead a pool at Pinkney Ferris' bathhouse. Ruby starts looking into Sophronia's life and sets out to expose her killer.

Whispers of Warning is the second story in A Change of Fortune Mystery series and it can be read alone. Ruby's past and her abilities along with what occurred in the first book is discussed (in great detail). I like the paranormal and historical aspects of the story (suffrage, spiritualist, Hay Feverist Society). The writing style, though, hindered my reading enjoyment. It lacks an ease. The pace was glacial thanks to the overabundance of details (the author needed to find a balance) and repetition of information. The dialogue seems stilted and awkward. I am rating Whispers of Warning 3 out of 5 stars (it was okay). The murder did not occur until almost halfway into the story. By the time Sophronia was killed (there was no doubt she would be the one murdered), I already identified the evil doer. Suffrage instead of mystery dominates Whispers of Warning. Whispers of Warning has an interesting premise, but I did not enjoy the final outcome.