What do You think about Weighed In The Balance (1997)?
I didn't like this as the rest in this series. It dragged quite a bit and nothing much happened in the mystery until the last chapters.The plot revolves about a case which Oliver Rathbone takes involving slander. A Countess has said that the wife of the exiled heir to the throne of a small Germanic principality has killed him. He have up his throne for his wife and lived in exile in Vienna. Their story was a romance for the ages and no one can believe that his wife would kill him.What I did find interesting was the information about the number of small kingdoms which were caught up in the unification of Germany. I never thought about what it would mean for these kingdoms which had their own identity and history. I have even gone to Bavaria, seen Neuschwanstein, and read the history of King Ludwig II and never thought what happened when Germany unified. Some of the smaller kingdoms fought the Prussian army and others, realizing the futility of resisting, allowed themselves to become part of Germany.
—Anne Hawn Smith
This was one of the best William Monk books I have read. I loved the Royalty - Politico aspects contained within. There were also, once again, many very strong characters who I could relate to/like/dislike.I absolutely love how Perry interweaves characters from within the earlier books into her most recent ones. I really enjoyed the Robert Oliver/Victoria Stanhope story. It was such a lovely resolution to tragic circumstances.There are always twist and turns in Perry's books and this one did not disappoint!
—Olivia
3.5 starsRathbone has taken a case which - in hindsight - may not have been the best decision. "Hopeless" might be a better description, as his client has been charged with slander, and yet refuses to offer any proof while maintaining its truth. In desperation, Monk travels across Britain and over to Europe in search for understanding or evidence anything to keep Rathbone from ignominious and very public failure. After all, the Lord Chancellor and at least one Queen have a very keen interest in seeing it resolved quickly and without undue mess, but it soon becomes about far more than just slander.It was a little slower to start than most, mainly because the political issue at the beginning was a little heavier than usual (at least you'll know to expect it), but the intrigue, the romance of Venice, the power play of principalities and the impact of unification versus independence soon make up for it. Meanwhile Monk and Rathbone seem to be unconsciously competing for Hester. There's nothing said, no untoward comments or gestures, but each is overly aware of the other and the other's interactions with Hester. There might even be a little jealousy. Hester stays rightfully focused on the priority of the case and her current patient, an unfortunate young man facing permanent paraplegia, but providing insight and medical suggestions when needed.The conclusion is outstanding, and Perry catches the volatile mood of the public so well. Not my favorite of the series, but certainly worth a read.
—Hilary
