Don't Look Back

By: Amanda Quick

Narrated by: Josephine Bailey

In this most entrancing tale of mystery and romance by the New York Times bestselling author AMANDA QUICK, lovers and partners-in-crime investigators Lavinia Lake and Tobias March continue their exciting newfound relationship, with its delicious mix of risky business, rising passion, and now--murder.

As if a head for business and a nose for trouble aren’t enough to distinguish fiercely independent Lavinia Lake from the other women of London’s fashionable Claremont Lane, there is one more feature to set her apart. Lavinia is also well versed in the practice of mesmerism, an extraordinary gift that far surpasses mere charm and physical appeal. Nobody knows this better than the usually coolheaded Tobias March, who seems to have fallen hopelessly under her spell. Fortunately for all, however, Lavinia uses her powers for good. And ever since a tragedy involving one of her subjects, she has even retired them in favor of her work with Lake and March, a joint venture providing “discreet private inquiries for individuals of quality.” Celeste Hudson, the stunningly beautiful young wife of a family friend and fellow mesmerist, would surely count herself among such individuals--were she still alive, that is. While mythology’s Medusa could turn men to stone, lovely Celeste was more accustomed to turning them to jelly. In fact, unbeknownst to her husband, Howard, the ambitious Celeste was planning to use her talents to forge a new future in Society--one that would not include him. Sadly, her plans were cut short when she was murdered. Only a gentleman’s cravat wound around her lovely neck remained for evidence--small compensation for the strange and priceless bracelet that may have been snatched from her wrist as she drew her last breath.

As a result, Lake and March are soon in Howard Hudson’s employ on the trail of the killer. But Tobias is convinced the dashing widower is more interested in tracking down the missing relic. If so, Howard is not alone. Any number of ruthless types are after the very same antiquity, whose centerpiece is an unusual blue cameo of inestimable value and supposed legendary powers--powers of immeasurable worth to anyone in Howard’s line of work.

Together, Lake and March undertake a tantalizing investigation that leads them from the glittering ballrooms of the ton to London’s seediest taverns to a mesmerist whose therapies include treating ladies suffering from “hysteria” is a a most unconventional method--and, not least of all, to the darkest reaches of men’s psyches. Along the way, Don’t Look Back becomes a completely mesmerizing read as the irrepressible Lavinia and Tobias mix business with pleasure....©2002 Amanda Quick; (P)2002 Books on Tape, Inc.

Critic reviews

“If you start an AMANDA QUICK book in the late afternoon, you’ll probably spend the night with it.”
--The Denver Post

“A witty, gripping, ABSOLUTELY MUST-READ for those who love mystery with a passion.”
--Elizabeth Lowell

“I had a wonderful time reading [Don't Look Back]....What fun, what fun, what fun! This action-packed tale, brimming with witty characters, vivid historical detail, and tautly woven intrigue kept me guessing until the very end. I loved the book and can't wait to brag to my mother that I've already read the latest AMANDA QUICK.”
--Lisa Gardner

“AMANDA QUICK delivers a heady and satisfying mix of romance and suspense. Nobody does it better!”
--Kay Hooper

“Everything AMANDA QUICK writes is an instant classic. I love this author!”
--Iris Johansen

Not my favorite Amanda Quick

 too much talk not enough action. The plot line moved slower than other Amanda QuickBooks I read.

Delightful!

I really like this narrator much more! Josephine made the relationship and tension between Lavina and Tobias more to what you would think it should be bringing all the characters to life. After the last one I was hesitant to purchase but truly glad I did!

Worth a listen

I was hesitant to get this one, after reading some scathing reviews about it on Amazon.com, but I decided to give it a try. I enjoyed the first book in the series (Slightly Shady), and wanted to see where the story would go next. I am glad that purchased this audiobook. I liked the story, found that I was looking forward to sessions of listening to this book. The mystery was good, although I have to admit that the last twist was unnecissary. The main point of this book, at least in my opinion, was to explore the growing relationship between Tobias and Levinia. To those reviewers that panned this book, I say "lighten up".

Good book

I don't usually listen to romances but I love these. They add a bit of spice and mystery to their stories making them worth the time.

Lovely. Engaging. Entertaining!

It’s why I read a book! Well done. Terrific narration and storyline. Looking forward to next one.