Amanda Quick's Affair is a captivating blend of romance and mystery, set against the backdrop of Victorian England. The novel weaves an intricate tale of intrigue, passion, and danger, centered around the lives of two compelling protagonists, Charlotte Arkendale and Baxter St. Ives. Quick, known for her ability to craft engaging historical romances, does not disappoint in this novel, delivering a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

At the heart of Affair is Charlotte Arkendale, a fiercely independent and intelligent woman who has carved out a niche for herself as a private investigator. Her clients are women seeking to uncover the true nature of their prospective husbands, and Charlotte's success in this field speaks volumes about her keen observational skills and shrewd judgment. However, the murder of one of her clients throws her life into turmoil, and the threats she begins to receive add a layer of urgency to her quest for justice. Charlotte is a well-drawn character, embodying the spirit of a woman ahead of her time, challenging societal norms with her career and independence.

Enter Baxter St. Ives, a man whose presence is as enigmatic as it is compelling. Posing as a man-of-affairs, Baxter's true motive is to investigate Charlotte herself, suspecting her involvement in the murder. His character is a fascinating study in contrasts; he is both a man of science and a man driven by an inexplicable passion for Charlotte. Quick skillfully develops Baxter's character, revealing layers of complexity that make him both relatable and intriguing. His internal conflict between duty and desire adds depth to the narrative, making his journey as compelling as Charlotte's.

The chemistry between Charlotte and Baxter is palpable from their first meeting, and Quick expertly builds the tension between them. Their relationship is a dance of wit and will, with each trying to outmaneuver the other while grappling with their growing attraction. The romance is beautifully interwoven with the mystery, creating a narrative that is as much about the characters' emotional journeys as it is about solving the murder. Quick's ability to balance these elements is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

One of the standout themes in Affair is the exploration of trust and deception. Both Charlotte and Baxter are characters who live by their wits, accustomed to keeping their true selves hidden from the world. As they navigate the dangerous waters of their investigation, they must learn to trust each other, despite the secrets they both harbor. This theme is expertly handled, with Quick delving into the complexities of trust in a world where appearances can be deceiving.

The setting of Victorian London adds an atmospheric layer to the story, with Quick's attention to historical detail bringing the era to life. The societal constraints and expectations of the time are woven into the narrative, providing a rich backdrop against which the characters' struggles and triumphs play out. The contrast between the opulence of the upper classes and the darker underbelly of London society is vividly depicted, enhancing the novel's sense of mystery and danger.

Quick's writing is both elegant and engaging, with a narrative style that draws the reader in from the first page. Her dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of her characters and their interactions. The pacing of the novel is well-judged, with the tension building steadily towards a thrilling climax. The resolution of the mystery is satisfying, with Quick tying up the various plot threads in a way that feels both logical and emotionally fulfilling.

In comparison to other works in the historical romance genre, Affair stands out for its strong character development and the seamless integration of romance and mystery. Fans of authors like Julia Quinn and Lisa Kleypas will find much to enjoy in Quick's novel, as it offers a similar blend of engaging characters and richly detailed settings. However, Quick's focus on the mystery element adds an additional layer of intrigue, setting her work apart from more traditional romances.

Overall, Affair is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of both romance and mystery. Amanda Quick has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. The novel's exploration of themes such as trust, deception, and the power of love makes it a standout in the genre, and a testament to Quick's talent as a writer.

For readers seeking a novel that offers both heart-pounding suspense and heartwarming romance, Affair is a must-read. Its blend of historical detail, engaging characters, and a gripping plot ensures that it will remain a favorite among fans of Amanda Quick and newcomers alike.