Julia Stuart (1)

Stuart manages many storylines in this whimsical novel with none of the characters fading into insignificance. Outside visiting hours the Tower of London is a self-contained community with its own doctor, chapel and even a pub, The Rack and Ruin, where the Beefeaters socialize and play Monopoly. When the Palace decides to move a large menagerie of exotic animals gifted to the Queen from their current home at London Zoo to the Tower, Beefeater Balthazar Jones is given the job of taking care of them. It's a move that doesn't sit well with the Ravenmaster who worries about the effect on the ravens traditionally kept at the Tower, but is more likely worried that they will somehow reveal his philandering.

Balthazar and his wife, Hebe, are still mourning the loss of their beloved son and this new distraction for her husband is too much for Hebe who packs up and leaves. The story moves back and forward from the Tower of London to the London Underground Lost Property Office where Hebe works, matching the often bizarre finds with owners. The Tower's chaplain, Reverend Septimus Drew, a bachelor, though not by choice, writes steamy romances under the pseudonym Vivienne Ventress (that gave me a laugh out loud moment) and falls in love with the barmaid, Ruby Dore.

Throughout the book the Tower's history becomes a major theme providing fascinating details. Stuart has performed a magical feat with this captivating book, making the characters simultaneously funny, sad, and lovable in a story that is lighthearted yet serious. I loved every moment.… (mere)