Masks and Shadows by Stephanie Burgis

She's come to visit her younger sister.  She wasn't able to attend the wedding, she's now a widow, and she wants to renew their friendship.  She never expected to find her sister acting as a Prince's consort...

Pyr and Edelweiss gave me the opportunity to read this book for review (thank you). It will be published April 12th.

This book has a different flavor from Ms. Burgis' other books.  It's deeper, darker, and written for an older crowd.  This one is set back in the days of Empresses and Emporers and Princes.  There's more than one evil plan percolating at this castle.  Sophie's Prince is not a good man.  Considering his wife is in a room in the castle, it seems Sophie could figure that out herself but she likes the gifts and the "honor" he has bestowed on her.  She's selfish and self-centered.

Charlotte is older and quieter.  She would prefer to have a quiet life but it's hard to do with the events and people crowding the castle.  Her maid becomes a singer.  Her interest is spurred by the contralto who sings heavenly.  She even gets to accompany him by playing the music and she finds her interest in him growing.  He's not suitable for one of her station but that doesn't stop her emotions.

There's more than one plot, alchemists involved, and it's almost a darker story than I would like.  There was much to be regretted if anyone thought that way.  It seems no one did except Charlotte.