This third book in the Tales of London series is nothing short of excellent! Leading Lady is centered around the London Theatre, which is a perfect setting for this multiple character tale. At times, there are almost too many to follow, not to mention trying to keep track of who’s related to whom.

Jewel and Grady are in charge of the Royal Court Theatre, and they have their hands full keeping Muriel, their new leading lady, away from Bethia, the Theatre's wardrobe mistress. Bethia is also Jewel’s cousin, as is Muriel, but the two aren’t related to each other, I think.

Muriel is a piece a work by herself. She has already broken up one marriage, and now has a young daughter, Georgina. After her husband dies she goes into mourning, forgetting to come out. She leaves her daughter to the nanny, paying little attention to either. It seems Muriel is almost repulsed by having anything to do with her child. When a new nanny is hired, will Muriel see things differently?

Bethia is forced to write a scathing letter to Douglas, Muriel’s brother, telling him to stop stocking her! Devastated by her letter and her rejection, he leaves London to seek his fortune in gold mining in the Canadian West. Reasoning he’ll be able to win Bethia’s heart, if he has money, unlike her fiancé, Guy. When Douglas dies in an accident, Muriel, devastated by her brother’s death, plots to get even with the woman she feels is responsible.

There are many story lines to follow, none of which are boring. You may wonder why the author explores the lives of Noah, Olivia and Jude. But rest assured, they will add a little spice to a story already quite spicy.

I’m sorry this is the last of the series, but nonetheless this is a great read, as are all Ms Blackwell’s books. You can get lost in her vivid and real characters, and may just find yourself booking a flight to England!