Usually when I go on vacation, I maybe read one chapter. Just one lonely chapter. I find myself getting caught up with my kids or doing things like – not relaxing in a chair so I can read. But this most recent vacation lacked my children and had  plenty of lounging by the pool time – so I read an entire book and a half! (I probably would have read more if I didn’t have tequila in my other hand at all times).  I win at life. (also lose at life after I discovered a humongous cockroach in my suitcase when I got home. You guys – I’m not even ready to discuss this yet.)

I decided to start the Sebastian St. Cyr series by C.S. Harris. I’ve had book one, What Angels Fear, forever in my TBR and for some reason it was calling me. Also my Goodreads friend, Jess, has one sentence reviews of the books and they basically wooed me. Although I’m only halfway through book two, I can already state that I’m in love with Sebastian and the rest of the crew.

Set in England in the early 1800’s the series follows Sebastian, a viscount in his twenties, who in book one gets entangled in a murder mystery and must prove his innocence. In book two, he continues to help solve murders, which I assume carries through this series (Book 13 comes out next month). I adore Sebastian. He is extremely smart and cunning. Athletic. Witty. His mother died under mysterious circumstances long ago and this carries through the first two books. His father and him have a rocky relationship. Sebastian is currently in love with an actress, and keeps begging her to marry him – but she has secrets and won’t do it. I know from scanning reviews of future books that this actress will not be his HEA. We have briefly met his future love, a woman who has completely intrigued me and I think she has spoken three sentences. But I fear poor Sebastian must go through heartache at some point before this woman enters his life. Hang on, Sebastian!! Your true love is lurking.

With that said – there is romance but maybe not the main focus of the books. It’s more murder-mystery, but it still works very well for me. Also let me note that by scanning reviews, it appears people really start to love this series a book or two in. You may not fall hard with book one.

I also love the supporting cast. We have Sir Henry Lovejoy who is the chief magistrate for Westminster at Queen Square. He is extremely serious about his job and isn’t sure he can trust Sebastian. Lord Jarvis, who has the ear of the prince of wales, and again isn’t sure if he likes Sebastian. Even better, he is the father of Sebastian’s future love. This makes me squeak. I can’t wait for it to play out.

The thirteenth book comes out next month and I’m on book two. So take my recommendation with that in mind. But so far, I really like what I’ve been reading. A very well done world with super likable, engaging characters.

Now if only I could go on seven more vacations in the near future so I could finish this series!

Series List – Amazon – Author Website