A death occurs that looks suspicious in a private estate with secrets that have been kept will tucked away. Detective Mills is a character that is written so well that you will understand the dangers in being gay in 1952. The need to hide, not make friends or share yourself was excellently told in this story. When Mills is hired to find out who the murderer is at the estate he not only seeks who done it among those living in the house, but discovers his true feelings and with eyes wide open finally accepts his life and what it should look like. Although the world is not safe for the gay community, the story explains that keeping hidden may keep you safe but also keeps your a prisoner inside. I enjoyed Lavender House and the characters that found love but needed to create an image for the outside world that gave a glimpse of what was expected of each of them.