The Lady in Residence

Having read only one other book by Allison Pittman, and that being several years ago, I wasn't sure what to expect from The Lady in Residence. But knowing it was a time-slip story, which I thoroughly enjoy, I was eager to read it. Hedda and Dini's stories are a blend of magic and romance and Pittman does a great job going back and forth between their tales. As the stories unfold, readers find a mystery at a historic hotel (The Menger is now on my bucket list of places to visit!) and a glimpse into the world of magicians. Add in romance during both time periods and the pages almost turned themselves. Readers who like time-slip romance mysteries will not want to miss this one. I am looking forward to reading more from this author. I read a complimentary copy of the book, given to me by Barbour Publishing, and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.

Lady In Residence by Allison Pittman In San Antonio, Texas in 2017, Dini Blackstone who comes from a long line of magicians, works at many different gigs.  Her favorite one is giving ghost tours of the Menger Hotel.  Telling about poor Sallie White who was murdered at the hotel and of Hedda Krause, a woman who moves into the hotel with all of her worldly belongings, after her husband passes away. Dini also does magic shows for birthday parties for children and general parties for adults.  She especially likes to perform card tricks with flair. In 1915, Hedda Krause moved into the Menger Hotel with all she possessed, hoping that her presence at the hotel will lead to a fine marriage to a wealthy husband. During the time that Hedda is in residence at the hotel, she is robbed, but her story is hard to believe, since she says it was done by the ghost of Sallie White.  Hedda gives her side of the mystery in the form of a memoir in the book. Detective Carmichael is assigned to investigate the case. Quin Carmichael is a great great grandson of Detective Carmichael who takes the Menger Hotel tour with Dini, hoping to piece together the mystery of the theft of Hedda's valuables. Quin and Dini join up to solve the mystery.   The story is original, with a lot of suspense and mystery.  I enjoyed the story.  Highly recommended. Many thanks to Barbour Publishing for the complimentary copy I was under no obligation to post a review.