I don’t believe I’ve read The Maid’s Diary, but I have had the privilege of reading The Patient’s Secret by the same author and enjoyed it. The Black Orchid was offered as this month’s First Read for Amazon Prime members, and I immediately snatched it up. Books offered in this program are usually a hit or miss, but it is a great way to discover new authors. When a notable author’s book appears on this list, you don’t ask questions—you simply select it for your next read. Fortunately, The Black Orchid does not disappoint. I’m really starting to like her writing and storytelling.

In a classic whodunit murder mystery that may have triggered the catastrophe of a cruise liner sinking, the story will have you guessing and wondering about every character introduced. In true classic fashion, the author presents characters who all seem to have ulterior motives for going on that fated maiden voyage. Sure, there may be one or two things that veteran readers and armchair detectives may guess before the reveal at the end, but for the most part, the story was engaging enough for me to keep reading and let the author do the job of bringing it home.

There’s not much more to say. I think many will enjoy this novel. Yes, I think there may be just a tad too many “coincidences” happening between all the characters involved, especially on a boat of this size and magnitude, but it’s not something that took away from the overall story and mystery.