Strangely enough, despite this being marketed as a murder mystery, the murder only serves as a driver for Rowland to investigate the new guardsmen. But, the focus of the story is much more on the colourful cast of characters and how their political alignment mirrors the wider political developments which is far more interesting. 

I loved the dynamic and banter of Rowly's ragtag group of friends (Edna, Milton and Clyde) which genuinely had me laughing. Same for his relationship with his brother. I would read this story for the fascinating setting and the delightful characters, not the mystery. 

Also, the original title 'a few right-thinking men' is much better than 'a house divided'.