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Beatrice Hyde-Clare #3
Das süße Gift der Liebe
Über ihre ersten beiden Mordfälle stolperte Miss Beatrice Hyde-Clare sozusagen zufällig, doch nun ist die junge Frau auf den Geschmack gekommen, und das hat einen tieferen Grund. Nicht nur hat die mittellose Waise ihr kombinatorisches Talent entdeckt (von dem sie vorher gar nicht wusste, dass sie es hatte) – durch eine absurde Laune des Schicksals hat sie sich in den für sie völlig unerreichbaren Duke of Kesgrave verliebt. Und sucht nun verzweifelt nach etwas, womit sie sich ablenken könnte. Eine Leiche käme da wie gerufen ...
Zum Glück meldet sich ein Gast der Hausgesellschaft im Lake District genau damit. Der Liebhaber der Mutter seiner Verlobten ist an ebendiesem Morgen unter mysteriösen Umständen gestorben, die auf eine Vergiftung schließen lassen. Statt die Behörden einzuschalten, möchte der junge Mann allerdings – ganz unkonventionell – Beatrice den Fall übergeben. Und so beginnt sie mit ihren Ermittlungen und findet sich bald schon in der Gesellschaft des wortkargen Duke of Kesgrave wieder, der offenbar auch entschlossen ist, dem Mord an Mr. Wilson nachzugehen.
Was in höchstem Maße irritierend ist, denn Sinn und Zweck der Ermittlungen war es doch gerade, den attraktiven Duke zu vergessen. Und plötzlich weiß Beatrice nicht mehr, was die größere Herausforderung ist – den Giftmord aufzuklären oder dem süßen Gift der Liebe zu widerstehen …
Zum Glück meldet sich ein Gast der Hausgesellschaft im Lake District genau damit. Der Liebhaber der Mutter seiner Verlobten ist an ebendiesem Morgen unter mysteriösen Umständen gestorben, die auf eine Vergiftung schließen lassen. Statt die Behörden einzuschalten, möchte der junge Mann allerdings – ganz unkonventionell – Beatrice den Fall übergeben. Und so beginnt sie mit ihren Ermittlungen und findet sich bald schon in der Gesellschaft des wortkargen Duke of Kesgrave wieder, der offenbar auch entschlossen ist, dem Mord an Mr. Wilson nachzugehen.
Was in höchstem Maße irritierend ist, denn Sinn und Zweck der Ermittlungen war es doch gerade, den attraktiven Duke zu vergessen. Und plötzlich weiß Beatrice nicht mehr, was die größere Herausforderung ist – den Giftmord aufzuklären oder dem süßen Gift der Liebe zu widerstehen …
362 pages, Hardcover
First published August 12, 2018
1502 people are currently reading
697 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Messina
56 books663 followersLynn Messina is author of more than a dozen novels, including the best-selling Fashionistas, which has been translated into sixteen languages, and a series of Regency romance novels. Her essays have appeared in Self, American Baby and the New York Times Modern Love column. She lives in New York City with her sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
May 11, 2023
2023 Review
As I've been re-reading this series, most of the books have pleasantly surprised me. But this one was a bit of a letdown. I think I built up the romance too much in my head. I remember re-reading those scenes. And it is instead...okay. Little out of nowhere. In fact, I think this tension should have dragged out for a few more books to give it proper development.
As it is...yeah, kind of a letdown. Curious what I will think of the next one.
2019 Review
So, I am going to be totally honest. This is not 4 star material. The murderer is predictable, Bea is wayyyyyy too angsty, and she keeps cross-dressing!
But there is a line there at the end and it is so swoon-worthy I am literally giving an extra star for it.
I really and truly am. And no, I am not going to tell you which one because I have to have some self respect.
But it is there.
As I've been re-reading this series, most of the books have pleasantly surprised me. But this one was a bit of a letdown. I think I built up the romance too much in my head. I remember re-reading those scenes. And it is instead...okay. Little out of nowhere. In fact, I think this tension should have dragged out for a few more books to give it proper development.
As it is...yeah, kind of a letdown. Curious what I will think of the next one.
2019 Review
So, I am going to be totally honest. This is not 4 star material. The murderer is predictable, Bea is wayyyyyy too angsty, and she keeps cross-dressing!
But there is a line there at the end and it is so swoon-worthy I am literally giving an extra star for it.
I really and truly am. And no, I am not going to tell you which one because I have to have some self respect.
But it is there.
October 14, 2018
These books just really dazzled me this week, and I guess I needed them...diverting, engrossing, witty, with scenes that easily transported me to another time and place, with a satisfying but not cloying love story.
In a way, the story has concluded at the proper place, but also, I wish there were more.
In a way, the story has concluded at the proper place, but also, I wish there were more.
April 23, 2019
I struggled between 2 and 3 stars with this one. Going with 2.5.
This installment was not as enjoyable as the previous two. In fact there were places where it severely disappointed me.
For one thing the first third was really just tedious. This book did that thing where the author seemed worried about a new reader (one who didn't read the first two) being brought up to speed on the haps in the first two books that this went overboard in giving details on the first two cases. Sometimes multiple times. Yes we know Mr. Skeffington hit Bea over the head and trapped her in a shed. You told us that three times already in the first part of this book alone. Yes we know Bea dressed up as a man and lied about going to the non-existent funeral of her non-existent beau, because you told us about that three times already too. There is a way to bring up pertinent info that alludes to earlier events when they are necessary to make a new reader not feel lost, but not so much they make the reader who did read the previous books feel like too much time is being spent recalling what they already know. This book does not succeed in doing that. I was so impatient to get to the mystery of this story and it really doesn't kick off until about 33% of the book.
Also while her aunt has always been a bit comical in her cluelessness when it comes to Bea, this book moves her from the arena of being amusing with it to full on into Petunia Dursley territory. There is a point at which her complete (even if somewhat benign) dismissal of any of Bea's better qualities and refusal to even give her any credit goes from clueless to cruel.
But I do like how her cousin Flora sees Bea and has become a champion and co-conspirator. And once Bea does get to her investigation and Kesgrave shows up the book gets on firmer footing and begins to give the sparkle I have quickly become accustomed to with this series. Also Lady Abercrombie is a delightful character. But I do wonder at the tendency to make almost everyone (outside of a handful of people) that Bea comes in contact with a 'CHARACTER' instead of just a character.
This one finally embraces the romance aspect and Bea ad Kesgrave admit their feelings for each other. And I enjoyed that as was glad for it although I wanted to know what the deal was with Lady Victoria. And the ending was abrupt and somewhat unsatisfying.
This installment was not as enjoyable as the previous two. In fact there were places where it severely disappointed me.
For one thing the first third was really just tedious. This book did that thing where the author seemed worried about a new reader (one who didn't read the first two) being brought up to speed on the haps in the first two books that this went overboard in giving details on the first two cases. Sometimes multiple times. Yes we know Mr. Skeffington hit Bea over the head and trapped her in a shed. You told us that three times already in the first part of this book alone. Yes we know Bea dressed up as a man and lied about going to the non-existent funeral of her non-existent beau, because you told us about that three times already too. There is a way to bring up pertinent info that alludes to earlier events when they are necessary to make a new reader not feel lost, but not so much they make the reader who did read the previous books feel like too much time is being spent recalling what they already know. This book does not succeed in doing that. I was so impatient to get to the mystery of this story and it really doesn't kick off until about 33% of the book.
Also while her aunt has always been a bit comical in her cluelessness when it comes to Bea, this book moves her from the arena of being amusing with it to full on into Petunia Dursley territory. There is a point at which her complete (even if somewhat benign) dismissal of any of Bea's better qualities and refusal to even give her any credit goes from clueless to cruel.
But I do like how her cousin Flora sees Bea and has become a champion and co-conspirator. And once Bea does get to her investigation and Kesgrave shows up the book gets on firmer footing and begins to give the sparkle I have quickly become accustomed to with this series. Also Lady Abercrombie is a delightful character. But I do wonder at the tendency to make almost everyone (outside of a handful of people) that Bea comes in contact with a 'CHARACTER' instead of just a character.
This one finally embraces the romance aspect and Bea ad Kesgrave admit their feelings for each other. And I enjoyed that as was glad for it although I wanted to know what the deal was with Lady Victoria. And the ending was abrupt and somewhat unsatisfying.
October 11, 2020
I am giving the book a 3.5 star. I had many moments where I really was laughing out loud. The humor is just terrific and that is why the book is rated at a 4. The down side is the plot and premise were pretty weak. I am going to start the next book today as I can forgive any flaws in the story as they are just plain fun and funny.
August 6, 2022
What great fun this book was! Another murder to solve for our heroine Beatrice with the assistance of her Duke of Kesgrave. Beatrice continues to overcome the challenges that come from her Aunt with determined scheming and subterfuge.
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August 3, 2022
I think it just be kismet that I jumped into this series at the start of some vacation time. If I hadn’t been able to gobble these books up without interruption, I fear I might have been unproductive at work because I’d be thinking about them all day.
These books absolutely shine when it comes to banter and characters that are so outrageous that they are bordering on absurd. It works. It’s delightful.
This this book, Beatrice spends three weeks sequestered as she recovers from the attack she suffered at the end of the second book. Her confinement is unnecessary after a week and a half, but her aunt insists she stay hidden. Cousin Flora, whose role expands into one of friend in this book, rescues Bea and allows her to meet with a visitor from her past who has a murder for her to solve.
The events surrounding mystery are a bit ridiculous, but what else would we expect from this series?
Meanwhile, Bea’s return to society means she can see Damien, who has been stopping by the house 2-3 times per week to inquire about her. Bea keeps the mystery to herself at first, but the two team up as they always do.
Along the way, Bea acknowledges her feelings for Damien to herself while watching him court a newly presented debutante. Lady Abercrombie realizes Bea loves Damien and promises to line of some suitors for her to get over him.
The conclusion is strange, but lovely. On to the 4th installment!
These books absolutely shine when it comes to banter and characters that are so outrageous that they are bordering on absurd. It works. It’s delightful.
This this book, Beatrice spends three weeks sequestered as she recovers from the attack she suffered at the end of the second book. Her confinement is unnecessary after a week and a half, but her aunt insists she stay hidden. Cousin Flora, whose role expands into one of friend in this book, rescues Bea and allows her to meet with a visitor from her past who has a murder for her to solve.
The events surrounding mystery are a bit ridiculous, but what else would we expect from this series?
Meanwhile, Bea’s return to society means she can see Damien, who has been stopping by the house 2-3 times per week to inquire about her. Bea keeps the mystery to herself at first, but the two team up as they always do.
Along the way, Bea acknowledges her feelings for Damien to herself while watching him court a newly presented debutante. Lady Abercrombie realizes Bea loves Damien and promises to line of some suitors for her to get over him.
The conclusion is strange, but lovely. On to the 4th installment!
February 23, 2025
Regency.
This couple Damien & Bea (D+B) just clicked. She saw him
dance with beautiful, young Lady Victoria & considered
her hope gone. D+ B once again, partnered to investigate,
someone's demise: an accident? murder? Damien acted
imperious & vulnerable toward Bea. At times Bea wanted
to: throw things at him (she refrained) & at others, hug him.
Did D+B share romantic and deeper love?
I've read 3 books in this series thus far. How could these
books be even better? The author could/ should stop:
1) referencing Bea's late faux love, law clerk Theo. Enough!
2) having Bea dwell on herself as plain w/ no conversation.
Bea is an original!
3) putting Bea in danger. Using her brain should not result
in torture to the rest of her body.
This couple Damien & Bea (D+B) just clicked. She saw him
dance with beautiful, young Lady Victoria & considered
her hope gone. D+ B once again, partnered to investigate,
someone's demise: an accident? murder? Damien acted
imperious & vulnerable toward Bea. At times Bea wanted
to: throw things at him (she refrained) & at others, hug him.
Did D+B share romantic and deeper love?
I've read 3 books in this series thus far. How could these
books be even better? The author could/ should stop:
1) referencing Bea's late faux love, law clerk Theo. Enough!
2) having Bea dwell on herself as plain w/ no conversation.
Bea is an original!
3) putting Bea in danger. Using her brain should not result
in torture to the rest of her body.
September 13, 2021
A delightful romp
To distract herself from her hopeless tendre for Damien Matlock, the duke of Kesgrave, Beatrice practically leaps on the first person who crosses her threshold. Thankfully said person happens to be one Mr. Skeffington, Who is there to beg her for her help. It appears as if his new fiancée’s mother’s lover, one Mr. Wilson, has managed to expire do the poison. And He needs Beatrice’s help to solve the murder discreetly.
Naturally, she takes the case.
—
A few trigger warnings for those people who need them: infidelity, sexism, misogyny, classism, uncomfortable stereotypes, secondhand embarrassment, alcoholism, and addiction. There might be others that I have missed.
There’s a definite sitcom quality to this entry into the series. Which is why I’ve worn for secondhand embarrassment there’s some situations that the heroine gets into which are definitely cringe worthy. Think J. K. Rowling’s very very very problematic French accent and you are not far off… The only thing saving that very problematic French accent in this book is the fact that it is kind of meant as kind of like the Dick Clark doing a cockney accent type of thing… so bad it’s comical. But your mileage may vary.
That said I am mostly here for the slow burn romance that’s taking place between Beatrice and Damien. It is absolutely delightful especially cents part of what attracts them to the other is the competence and the intelligence that the other shows. It’s nice to see a meeting of the minds.
The book does have a few wobbles. There’s some weird formatting where a sentence will break off partway through inform off of a new paragraph. There is also some wrong words and missing words. Not enough that it lowered a star for me but it is enough that I noticed it.
I did like the callbacks to some of the previous books in this book. But it does mean that this book doesn’t stand on its own fairly well. I also did like the twist at the end. It was well telegraphed and while I had him pegged who the murderer was fairly early on the mold of murder was quite intelligent. The clues were there. And they were seeded early. And I am here for that good foreshadowing.
In all, this is probably my favorite entry into the series so far. And so for that I’m going to give this…
Four a half stars rounded up to five.
To distract herself from her hopeless tendre for Damien Matlock, the duke of Kesgrave, Beatrice practically leaps on the first person who crosses her threshold. Thankfully said person happens to be one Mr. Skeffington, Who is there to beg her for her help. It appears as if his new fiancée’s mother’s lover, one Mr. Wilson, has managed to expire do the poison. And He needs Beatrice’s help to solve the murder discreetly.
Naturally, she takes the case.
—
A few trigger warnings for those people who need them: infidelity, sexism, misogyny, classism, uncomfortable stereotypes, secondhand embarrassment, alcoholism, and addiction. There might be others that I have missed.
There’s a definite sitcom quality to this entry into the series. Which is why I’ve worn for secondhand embarrassment there’s some situations that the heroine gets into which are definitely cringe worthy. Think J. K. Rowling’s very very very problematic French accent and you are not far off… The only thing saving that very problematic French accent in this book is the fact that it is kind of meant as kind of like the Dick Clark doing a cockney accent type of thing… so bad it’s comical. But your mileage may vary.
That said I am mostly here for the slow burn romance that’s taking place between Beatrice and Damien. It is absolutely delightful especially cents part of what attracts them to the other is the competence and the intelligence that the other shows. It’s nice to see a meeting of the minds.
The book does have a few wobbles. There’s some weird formatting where a sentence will break off partway through inform off of a new paragraph. There is also some wrong words and missing words. Not enough that it lowered a star for me but it is enough that I noticed it.
I did like the callbacks to some of the previous books in this book. But it does mean that this book doesn’t stand on its own fairly well. I also did like the twist at the end. It was well telegraphed and while I had him pegged who the murderer was fairly early on the mold of murder was quite intelligent. The clues were there. And they were seeded early. And I am here for that good foreshadowing.
In all, this is probably my favorite entry into the series so far. And so for that I’m going to give this…
Four a half stars rounded up to five.
December 16, 2018
Beatrice Hyde-Clare has managed to solve two murders all without her family noticing. Unfortunately she has tumbled head over heels in love with the Duke of Kesgrave and it will never do! Of course he knows what's due his family and title. He will marry some pedantic heiress and have beautiful, pedantic children. Bea's family think she's mourning her lost love, a lowly law clerk who married someone else and has recently died. None but Bea knows that he is a fabrication. Bea's new "godmother", Lady Abercrombie, is determined to bring Bea into fashion and find Bea a husband. What Bea wants is a new murder to solve to keep her occupied. When Mr. Skeffington, of the ill-fated Lake District house party, approaches Bea about solving a problem for his fiancee, Miss Otley, Bea is eager to accept. It seems that Mr. Wilson, Mrs. Otley's lover, has expired! While Mrs. Otley believes it was natural causes, Miss Otley is not sure sure. Bea is determined to solve this case on her own but wherever she goes, the Duke of Kesgrave follows! This time Bea is calling the shots and if he doesn't approve, so be it! With her newfound confidence, Bea sets out to find a killer.
This story wasn't quite as charming or witty as the previous two. The author spends too much time recapping and spoiling the first two novels so reader beware! The mystery doesn't start until a few chapters in and ends very abruptly. The novel is more focused on the romance than the murder. I found most of the situations extremely unbelievable, more so than even the previous novel in the series. I didn't appreciate the lack of communication between Bea and Damien. She spends her time second guessing what he wants and means to do and it results in the usual misunderstanding trope. I HATE that kind of misunderstanding. I was not thrilled. Her self-esteem is so low thanks to her Dursley-ish relatives, she can't think that a man like him would ever want to marry a plain, middling spinster. Damien behaves like the perfect gentleman, for the most part. He's clearly in love with Bea and amused by her crazy schemes. Why does she think he goes along with her plans? I loved seeing him perform in a different role and how his ducal abilities fail in that instance. It was fun to give him a chance to see what it was like to be Bea for a change. Despite this, his character develops very little.
Mr. Wilson, the murder victim, does not seem like much of a prize. I think Mrs. Otley was lonely and bored. I was surprised at how little she knew him. It takes other gentlemen to fill in the blanks. He didn't deserve to die, let alone such a horrific death. Like Miss Otley, Mr. Skeffington has also matured based on his experiences. He's more subdued and less carefree. I didn't care for Bea's crusade for justice. NO ONE would care about Mr. Wilson's murder and if the killer is a member of the beau monde, they'll get away with it anyway. What I really dislike about Bea is her approach to "questioning" murder suspects at the end of the novel. It's unrealistic and dangerous, not to mention unrealistic for her character and her time period.
There is a decided lack of suspects in this novel. Mrs. Otley has not shown the best judgement or warmest feelings in the past. She's selfish and rather stupid. Emily is smart enough to kill her mother's lover and make it look natural. She swears she didn't know he was in the house but I think she is clever enough to conceal her emotions, despite what her mother and the servants think. Emily has grown a lot since we first met her, or so she says. She's kinder to Bea anyway and really is Bea's closest girlfriend. Bea refuses to believe Emily is a killer and focuses on outside suspects. The suspect list is whittled down by Lord Kesgrave and Bea ends up with two chief suspects Lord Mowbray and Lord Taunton. Mowbray is a drunken fool but could he ramblings hide a diabolical mind? Lord Taunton seems the typical haughty peer. He never expected to inherit and spent time in India. Yet, what could be the motive? He seems fond of his mother which I liked. He provides some surprising information.
errors: Will Mr. Skeffington inherit a Barony or Baronetcy? They're not the same. His father is Lord Skeffington, which implies he's a Baron and not a Baronet. Authors please do your research and catch your mistakes.
Emily's attitude towards infidelity is too modern. A real young lady of her situation would understand that marriages were made for financial benefit not love and that her parents will go their separate ways, as she might in the future. Mr. Skeffington seems to share her views. He also wouldn't be shocked by his parents' betrayal. Lord Skeffington's attitude is more normal for the period.
Content: One passionate kissing scene with tongue and touching skin. I was not too thrilled with this scene or the misunderstanding it led to. Save the kisses for the end after the characters TALK to each other.
This story wasn't quite as charming or witty as the previous two. The author spends too much time recapping and spoiling the first two novels so reader beware! The mystery doesn't start until a few chapters in and ends very abruptly. The novel is more focused on the romance than the murder. I found most of the situations extremely unbelievable, more so than even the previous novel in the series. I didn't appreciate the lack of communication between Bea and Damien. She spends her time second guessing what he wants and means to do and it results in the usual misunderstanding trope. I HATE that kind of misunderstanding. I was not thrilled. Her self-esteem is so low thanks to her Dursley-ish relatives, she can't think that a man like him would ever want to marry a plain, middling spinster. Damien behaves like the perfect gentleman, for the most part. He's clearly in love with Bea and amused by her crazy schemes. Why does she think he goes along with her plans? I loved seeing him perform in a different role and how his ducal abilities fail in that instance. It was fun to give him a chance to see what it was like to be Bea for a change. Despite this, his character develops very little.
Mr. Wilson, the murder victim, does not seem like much of a prize. I think Mrs. Otley was lonely and bored. I was surprised at how little she knew him. It takes other gentlemen to fill in the blanks. He didn't deserve to die, let alone such a horrific death. Like Miss Otley, Mr. Skeffington has also matured based on his experiences. He's more subdued and less carefree. I didn't care for Bea's crusade for justice. NO ONE would care about Mr. Wilson's murder and if the killer is a member of the beau monde, they'll get away with it anyway. What I really dislike about Bea is her approach to "questioning" murder suspects at the end of the novel. It's unrealistic and dangerous, not to mention unrealistic for her character and her time period.
There is a decided lack of suspects in this novel. Mrs. Otley has not shown the best judgement or warmest feelings in the past. She's selfish and rather stupid. Emily is smart enough to kill her mother's lover and make it look natural. She swears she didn't know he was in the house but I think she is clever enough to conceal her emotions, despite what her mother and the servants think. Emily has grown a lot since we first met her, or so she says. She's kinder to Bea anyway and really is Bea's closest girlfriend. Bea refuses to believe Emily is a killer and focuses on outside suspects. The suspect list is whittled down by Lord Kesgrave and Bea ends up with two chief suspects Lord Mowbray and Lord Taunton. Mowbray is a drunken fool but could he ramblings hide a diabolical mind? Lord Taunton seems the typical haughty peer. He never expected to inherit and spent time in India. Yet, what could be the motive? He seems fond of his mother which I liked. He provides some surprising information.
errors: Will Mr. Skeffington inherit a Barony or Baronetcy? They're not the same. His father is Lord Skeffington, which implies he's a Baron and not a Baronet. Authors please do your research and catch your mistakes.
Emily's attitude towards infidelity is too modern. A real young lady of her situation would understand that marriages were made for financial benefit not love and that her parents will go their separate ways, as she might in the future. Mr. Skeffington seems to share her views. He also wouldn't be shocked by his parents' betrayal. Lord Skeffington's attitude is more normal for the period.
Content: One passionate kissing scene with tongue and touching skin. I was not too thrilled with this scene or the misunderstanding it led to. Save the kisses for the end after the characters TALK to each other.
August 14, 2021
3.5 stars. I enjoyed quite a lot about the third book in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare series, but at the same time there were noticeable issues that stopped me from rating it higher.
I’ll start with the good! There are some very significant (and welcome) developments in the romantic relationship between Beatrice and the Duke this time, what with both of them being aware of their own feelings by now.
They do spend most of the book dancing around the elephant in the room, but it’s obvious to anyone who has eyes that Kesgrave is mad about Bea - it’s ridiculously adorable. If anything, it’s more surprising that the ton and even the usually astute Lady Abercrombie hasn’t caught on to the Duke being obviously jealous of Bea spending time with Nuneaton; he literally only has eyes for Bea in the ballroom!
I particularly love the Duke’s very noticeable switch from “Miss Hyde-Clare” to “Beatrice” at the end of book 2 and now to “Bea,” and I admit I may have reread their confrontation in his grandmother’s drawing room several times. Definitely can’t forget the moment when he finally confesses his love for Bea at the end, either, which was just lovely.
What I don’t love as much: The mystery, Bea’s moping and the rushed conclusion.
The mystery this time is the weakest so far; what could’ve been a very interesting murder mystery caused by Mr. William’s colorful past in India or his affair with Mrs. Otley ended up being the result of offending someone decades ago, and this culprit isn’t even introduced until about two-thirds in. It made the whole investigation feel very… pointless.
It doesn’t help that even Bea herself is distracted by what’s happening between her and the Duke, so the conclusion of the case is more of an accidental afterthought.
Bea’s internal angst drags out for almost the whole book. I was sympathetic - after all, as obvious as it was to the reader that Kesgrave’s crazy in love with Bea, he hadn’t given her much indication of it and certainly hadn’t made any move. There was also the added complication of Lady Victoria Parker, whom everyone thinks the Duke will shortly marry. But boy was it tiresome to read about her moping on and on.
The conclusion really delivers the satisfaction of Kesgrave finally taking the initiative of professing his love for her, but it was also rushed enough that it took away some developments that I’d have liked to see happen more gradually:
1. Kesgrave actually proposing would have made the angst much more worth it; instead, Bea just brushes past it by claiming herself his fiancée.
Even if that’s obviously his intention and he was clearly over the moon at the thought of marrying her (and says that he can barely wait), it made no sense for someone as lacking in confidence in her self-worth as Bea to make that assumption after one kiss and a confession! I would have expected at least some surprise, disbelief, demanding answers from Kesgrave - anything. This is a woman who, right up until that point, believed that she had no future with the Duke.
2. The hurdle of Victoria Parker. I assume we’ll find out more next book instead (hopefully), but it also made it more unbelievable that a kiss and a confession of love later, Bea happily proclaimed herself Kesgrave’s fiancée when they haven’t even solved the Victoria Parker misunderstanding yet. And the novel ending with society ladies rushing to surround Bea in order to cozy up to the soon-to-be Duchess? How did they know? Were they all peeking around the corner, saw everything AND knew that the Duke wasn’t engaged to Victoria at all?
Finally, this is a bit nit-picky, but I’d really like to see the Duke speak up for Bea when she’s being insulted, even if it’s just once. Even though she can stand up for herself, her self-confidence has been so battered by her family over the years that she half accepts it when the villains call her unattractive/pathetic/unwanted/etc., and it would have been nice to hear the Duke counter with his own view of Bea (as his love and attraction to her must surely mean he sees her differently?)
My grumbling aside, the ending was really incredibly sweet and I loved it. I really did enjoy much of book 3 despite everything and have my fingers crossed that some of my wishlist will be ticked off in book 4.
I’ll start with the good! There are some very significant (and welcome) developments in the romantic relationship between Beatrice and the Duke this time, what with both of them being aware of their own feelings by now.
They do spend most of the book dancing around the elephant in the room, but it’s obvious to anyone who has eyes that Kesgrave is mad about Bea - it’s ridiculously adorable. If anything, it’s more surprising that the ton and even the usually astute Lady Abercrombie hasn’t caught on to the Duke being obviously jealous of Bea spending time with Nuneaton; he literally only has eyes for Bea in the ballroom!
I particularly love the Duke’s very noticeable switch from “Miss Hyde-Clare” to “Beatrice” at the end of book 2 and now to “Bea,” and I admit I may have reread their confrontation in his grandmother’s drawing room several times. Definitely can’t forget the moment when he finally confesses his love for Bea at the end, either, which was just lovely.
What I don’t love as much: The mystery, Bea’s moping and the rushed conclusion.
The mystery this time is the weakest so far; what could’ve been a very interesting murder mystery caused by Mr. William’s colorful past in India or his affair with Mrs. Otley ended up being the result of offending someone decades ago, and this culprit isn’t even introduced until about two-thirds in. It made the whole investigation feel very… pointless.
It doesn’t help that even Bea herself is distracted by what’s happening between her and the Duke, so the conclusion of the case is more of an accidental afterthought.
Bea’s internal angst drags out for almost the whole book. I was sympathetic - after all, as obvious as it was to the reader that Kesgrave’s crazy in love with Bea, he hadn’t given her much indication of it and certainly hadn’t made any move. There was also the added complication of Lady Victoria Parker, whom everyone thinks the Duke will shortly marry. But boy was it tiresome to read about her moping on and on.
The conclusion really delivers the satisfaction of Kesgrave finally taking the initiative of professing his love for her, but it was also rushed enough that it took away some developments that I’d have liked to see happen more gradually:
1. Kesgrave actually proposing would have made the angst much more worth it; instead, Bea just brushes past it by claiming herself his fiancée.
Even if that’s obviously his intention and he was clearly over the moon at the thought of marrying her (and says that he can barely wait), it made no sense for someone as lacking in confidence in her self-worth as Bea to make that assumption after one kiss and a confession! I would have expected at least some surprise, disbelief, demanding answers from Kesgrave - anything. This is a woman who, right up until that point, believed that she had no future with the Duke.
2. The hurdle of Victoria Parker. I assume we’ll find out more next book instead (hopefully), but it also made it more unbelievable that a kiss and a confession of love later, Bea happily proclaimed herself Kesgrave’s fiancée when they haven’t even solved the Victoria Parker misunderstanding yet. And the novel ending with society ladies rushing to surround Bea in order to cozy up to the soon-to-be Duchess? How did they know? Were they all peeking around the corner, saw everything AND knew that the Duke wasn’t engaged to Victoria at all?
Finally, this is a bit nit-picky, but I’d really like to see the Duke speak up for Bea when she’s being insulted, even if it’s just once. Even though she can stand up for herself, her self-confidence has been so battered by her family over the years that she half accepts it when the villains call her unattractive/pathetic/unwanted/etc., and it would have been nice to hear the Duke counter with his own view of Bea (as his love and attraction to her must surely mean he sees her differently?)
My grumbling aside, the ending was really incredibly sweet and I loved it. I really did enjoy much of book 3 despite everything and have my fingers crossed that some of my wishlist will be ticked off in book 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2019
Having stumbled into and successfully solved two murders, Beatrice has made a vow not to involve herself in anymore such murders. But if someone came to her requesting her help, then that is quite the different thing, isn't it? And finding herself quite unexpectedly in love with the handsome and charming Duke of Kesgrave, she is more than willing to take on the distraction of a new murder investigation.
Despite her efforts to avoid Kesgrave, he features quite unintentionally in her thoughts and investigation. And now she will do everything she can to prevent revealing the truth of her feelings from those around her, and certainly from Kesgrave himself.
__________________________
An Infamous Betrayal is the third book in Lynn Messina's Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries series and has bee my favorite book in the series thus far.
I adored beyond words being introduced to Kesgrave's grandmother. She is stubborn and obstinate and everything we ever could have dreamed she could be. Now I can see how Kesgrave, with all his prestige and dignity, could have grown up to be the satirical and endearing man he is.
My favorite aspect of these books has, hands down, been the wit and the banter. The characters range from endearing to ridiculous and I love the way they all play off one another. I really recommend this series, they're all quick reads and are genuinely funny.
I have been reading this series through Kindle Unlimited but I think I might order my own paperbacks as I would like to add my very own copies of them to my bookshelves.
5 stars, I'm in love with this book.
Despite her efforts to avoid Kesgrave, he features quite unintentionally in her thoughts and investigation. And now she will do everything she can to prevent revealing the truth of her feelings from those around her, and certainly from Kesgrave himself.
__________________________
An Infamous Betrayal is the third book in Lynn Messina's Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries series and has bee my favorite book in the series thus far.
I adored beyond words being introduced to Kesgrave's grandmother. She is stubborn and obstinate and everything we ever could have dreamed she could be. Now I can see how Kesgrave, with all his prestige and dignity, could have grown up to be the satirical and endearing man he is.
My favorite aspect of these books has, hands down, been the wit and the banter. The characters range from endearing to ridiculous and I love the way they all play off one another. I really recommend this series, they're all quick reads and are genuinely funny.
I have been reading this series through Kindle Unlimited but I think I might order my own paperbacks as I would like to add my very own copies of them to my bookshelves.
5 stars, I'm in love with this book.
April 18, 2025
This installment had everything going for it! A new mystery and the climax of the romance! Finally, we got to see more of the romance and then the ending had to be like that.
I like Bea's personality and the way she thinks, but I've said before she does some very extreme things, which rarely give her any consequences. Also, her thinking can be SO off regarding the mysteries, especially when Damien is involved, so she will think something extreme just to be a contrarian, which is silly.
I love them both and this is why this book was so exciting for me, because there was actual progress and some pining and everything you could want from a Victorian-esque romance, only for the last few pages to come and ruin it all with some very out of pocket conversation, while you were waiting for some more... emotion?
The mystery resembles the one in the previous book in the way Bea suddenly gets the revelation with no new clue, but just making a new conclusion from the facts she had. Seems a kind of haphazardous way to write, but do I enjoy it? Yes! However, what I don't enjoy is the constant reminders of what happened in the 2 previous books. I get maybe a short summary, but we kept getting similar or even the same information throughout the whole book!
Honestly, if it weren't for Bea's extremities and the lackluster romance climax, I would have scored it even higher. The whole cast is enjoyable to read and next book seems promising!
I like Bea's personality and the way she thinks, but I've said before she does some very extreme things, which rarely give her any consequences. Also, her thinking can be SO off regarding the mysteries, especially when Damien is involved, so she will think something extreme just to be a contrarian, which is silly.
I love them both and this is why this book was so exciting for me, because there was actual progress and some pining and everything you could want from a Victorian-esque romance, only for the last few pages to come and ruin it all with some very out of pocket conversation, while you were waiting for some more... emotion?
The mystery resembles the one in the previous book in the way Bea suddenly gets the revelation with no new clue, but just making a new conclusion from the facts she had. Seems a kind of haphazardous way to write, but do I enjoy it? Yes! However, what I don't enjoy is the constant reminders of what happened in the 2 previous books. I get maybe a short summary, but we kept getting similar or even the same information throughout the whole book!
Honestly, if it weren't for Bea's extremities and the lackluster romance climax, I would have scored it even higher. The whole cast is enjoyable to read and next book seems promising!
November 21, 2022
The courageous heroine solves another murder. And thanks to the H's attention others are showing interest in her. As I have read the series in order, some details were repetitive and for me that detracted from the pace. However I really like this unlikely couple, as they solve murders and fall in love.
December 29, 2020
I think this was the best yet! Loved it. As soon as I finished the last book I had to buy the next one. It was so fun to read. I went to get the next one and found out I have to wait until April. A whole month.
August 13, 2023
This is the third book in a series that I have had to wade through before anything good happens. Bea is our female protagonist who, during the Regency Era, becomes the first Miss Marple. In every book, it is repeated over and over how plain she is, how she is super intelligent, but she is plain! I got it after the first three chapters in the first book! If she were so intelligent, why hasn't she realized that the Duke, our male protagonist, is crazy about her? I love Historical Mystery stories, you can murder off anybody, and make anyone the killer, these are supposed to be funny characters, so let them be one or the other, Bea's Aunt is a funny, absurd personality, she is not intentionally unkind, yet that's how she comes across, let her be obtuse, she doesn't have a clue about anything she says, no malice intended, she is a stupid woman. I like Flora, Bea's cousin, let her have more storylines because that is why I rate these books three stars, I despise internal monologue, Bea internalizes way too much, she has people that she could talk with, let her talk. I love the Duke of Kesgrave. Let him be male, I like Alpha Male protagonists. They are my favorite. He is always there when Bea needs him, he is protective of her, he is smart, she is smart, and there is no need for her to be so much smarter than he is, that's a false feminists theory that I don't care for in books, why can't they be equal in the intelligence department? He goes along with whatever she wants, as long as she is safe, he is my kind of hero. Why didn't she ask him about Lady Victoria? There were too many loose ends for me. However, it finally reached a good place between Bea and the Duke. I look forward to the next book in this series. After all, I have waited for this through three books.
Thank you for reading my review. My opinions are always my own.
carolintallahassee
Thank you for reading my review. My opinions are always my own.
carolintallahassee
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2023
2,5 Sterne
Der dritte Band hat mir nicht so gut gefallen wie die Vorgänger. Die ersten hundert Seiten erzählen zu detailliert die Handlung des ersten und zweiten Bandes nach, gerade der erste wird extrem ausgewalzt und gespoilert. Ansonsten war leider kaum Handlung und auch der Schlagabtausch zwischen Beatrice und dem Duke kam etwas zu kurz.
Der dritte Band hat mir nicht so gut gefallen wie die Vorgänger. Die ersten hundert Seiten erzählen zu detailliert die Handlung des ersten und zweiten Bandes nach, gerade der erste wird extrem ausgewalzt und gespoilert. Ansonsten war leider kaum Handlung und auch der Schlagabtausch zwischen Beatrice und dem Duke kam etwas zu kurz.
January 7, 2026
I did not give a damn about the mystery or the plot and neither did the author.
But the ROMANCE, it was PERFECTION. I freaking love these two so much. Also the speech close to the end?????? I am swooning.
But the ROMANCE, it was PERFECTION. I freaking love these two so much. Also the speech close to the end?????? I am swooning.
October 8, 2018
Must start with book 1/ Amazing trio!!!
I haven't enjoyed a trilogy so well in so long. Normally I abhor story lines with a spinster and a Duke because the focus is on her beauty. I'm not going to reiterate the storyline. I will say the verbal sparring, the growth of Beatrice herself is amazing which is why I say you must begin with the first of these, A Brazen Curiosity. You'll be glad you did.
I haven't enjoyed a trilogy so well in so long. Normally I abhor story lines with a spinster and a Duke because the focus is on her beauty. I'm not going to reiterate the storyline. I will say the verbal sparring, the growth of Beatrice herself is amazing which is why I say you must begin with the first of these, A Brazen Curiosity. You'll be glad you did.
November 26, 2018
5 stars for the series as a whole. Here's hoping there will more to come. Lady Abercrombie's cryptic mention of another case seems to leave open the possibility!
Please keep in mind, this series is best read in order, especially since this book would spoil the mysteries from the first two.
Please keep in mind, this series is best read in order, especially since this book would spoil the mysteries from the first two.
May 11, 2023
4 Solid Stars
I quite enjoyed this book.
The dialogue is clever, the characters are charming, and finally, Bea is engaged!
I quite enjoyed this book.
The dialogue is clever, the characters are charming, and finally, Bea is engaged!
May 11, 2023
they're sooooo cute i love them
October 15, 2024
Hauska jatko-osa, sarja paranee edetessään ihan selkeästi! Ei epäilystäkään etteikö seuraavakin suomennos päädy aika nopeasti luureihin.
Read
February 11, 2025They are in love, your honor!❤️🙏
June 18, 2024
I need more. This is crazy how hooked I am 😂 I'm way too invested now to stop.
December 24, 2022
I’m obsessed now with Beatrice and Kesgrave!
September 28, 2024
C'est juste génial !!!!! J'aime beaucoup cette série. Quelle belle découverte
Comme tu le dis Sam, parfois des répétitions qui deviennent lourdes. Et l'intrigue amoureuse qui arrive en une trentaine de pages après 3 romans lol
Comme tu le dis Sam, parfois des répétitions qui deviennent lourdes. Et l'intrigue amoureuse qui arrive en une trentaine de pages après 3 romans lol
December 24, 2022
Encore un très bon tome que j'ai dévoré, d'autant que l'histoire d'amour entre Beatrice et le duc se concrétise enfin, pour mon plus grand plaisir !
D'habitude je ne suis pas une grande fan des séries où les personnages principaux restent les mêmes (je suis beaucoup plus habituée aux séries de romance), mais j'attends la suite avec impatience.
D'habitude je ne suis pas une grande fan des séries où les personnages principaux restent les mêmes (je suis beaucoup plus habituée aux séries de romance), mais j'attends la suite avec impatience.
April 24, 2019
2.5 stars.
I knew that reading the books in this series in quick succession would inevitably lead to me impatiently waving the author on while she recaps the previous installments. So that's on me. The mystery solving and relationship development continues to charm, but the bothered me. And the duke's assertion that he's unused to delaying satisfaction makes me worried that there is a whole string of ex-mistresses and paramours in his past. I'm just not sure that the mousy, albeit consistently improving in self worth, heroine will be able to withstand running into them. I'm choosing not to borrow trouble, so on to the next book I go!
I knew that reading the books in this series in quick succession would inevitably lead to me impatiently waving the author on while she recaps the previous installments. So that's on me. The mystery solving and relationship development continues to charm, but the bothered me. And the duke's assertion that he's unused to delaying satisfaction makes me worried that there is a whole string of ex-mistresses and paramours in his past. I'm just not sure that the mousy, albeit consistently improving in self worth, heroine will be able to withstand running into them. I'm choosing not to borrow trouble, so on to the next book I go!
April 25, 2023
Oh, what a delightful romp this series has been! Beatrice’s third adventure is as lively as the others, with the added sweetness of her deepening romance with the Duke of Kesgrave, even as they continue to match wits. Their interactions are so adorable. The mystery, too, was an intriguing one, though once again it had a rather sudden end. Overall, this was a charming, hilarious regency mystery/romance series. I hope there will be more!
May 15, 2024
4 stars. I find myself oddly bereft, unhappy with the ending. It didn't sit well even when we are finally given our HEA. The story was fun, the banter amazing, the inner dialogue still tedious and the mystery was just ok (not as compelling but I guess they all can't be).
Peeve- I hate it when supposedly responsible people run and hide! Avoidance never fixes anything.
And I realize that this series is a single POV thru Bea's character but it wasn't until book 3 that I really felt the imbalance. Its too much Bea, not enough Duke! Dearly hoping the next book will heal my little heart after the spoiler- I have listed the quote at the bottom of the review.
This mystery is brought to you once again by the Otley Family. Strange connections have been happening and now - another murder!
Highlights and spoilers ahead!
Bea realizes the futility of her love:
It was almost enough to turn a foolish girl’s head. Fortunately, Bea wasn’t foolish. She was just imprudent enough to fall in love with him but too clever to believe for a moment that he could ever return her regard.
We get the wit we have come to love:
Bea nodded and imagined this was true, as Mrs. Otley seemed particularly devoted to remaining as ignorant as possible about many things.
Very well written:
Although the prospect of an existence entirely free of Kesgrave felt like a tragedy now, the truth was she’d known him for less than six months, which was really only a meager fraction of her life. She’d passed twenty-six mostly content years before him and would no doubt pass twenty-six mostly content years after him.
For some reason, this thought, which had been calculated to put a little steel in her spine, deflated her completely, and as she crossed the floor, she had to resist the urge to drop to her knees and weep like a small child.
Lady Abercrombie is an unexpected ally:
Trust me, my dear, I speak from experience: It cannot be love if it’s not returned. It’s something else and it’s just as painful, but it’s not love and you will get through it,” she said and reached over to grasp her hand.
The solemn intensity with which Lady Abercrombie spoke convinced Bea she believed every word she was saying.
Finally, the Duke:
"Do note, Miss Hyde-Clare, how quick I am to process new concepts and apply them to practical situations.” The glint of humor in his eyes revealed that he was enjoying one of his favorite pastimes: mocking himself as a way of teasing her.
---------------
To be treated like just another person in his life when he was in fact the most important person in hers was simply unbearable.
“No, I can’t dance with you,” Bea said frankly. “It’s out of the question.”
Despite his claim to wounded vanity, Kesgrave seemed only amused by her rejection and calmly asked her why it could not be considered.
----------------
“Well done, Kesgrave,” she said approvingly. “Very well done. You have the ability to learn from past mistakes, which is a very attractive and rare quality in a man. I believe there is hope for you yet.”
Although she meant the comment merely as a distraction from his efforts to restrict her movements, she could not smother the admiration she felt for him, and whatever ruse he was expecting, he appeared too struck by the warmth and sincerity of her tone to recall it.
Nonplussed, he stared at her for several long seconds before murmuring, “Is there? I think I might be too far gone.”
------------------
“I cannot tell if you are disappointed the wrong man died,” the duke said as soon as they were outside, “or if you’re disappointed you’ve been denied a satisfying conclusion.”
It was a fair question, and Bea did not take offense. Rather, she marveled at how easily Kesgrave could read her thoughts.
LOVED this:
“The most fun I’ve ever had in my whole life was watching you climb over the counter in Mercer Brothers while instructing Mr. Hamish on how to make his sign. You have thoroughly corrupted me,” he admitted, “and like any reprobate worth his salt I’m a grateful participant in my own downfall.”
BUT- this just hit me as so wrong:
“And to think I once foolishly believed I could desire your mind with every ounce of my being,” he said softly as he released her lips, “and not crave your body with every breath. We must get married at once, my love, for I am not accustomed to the sting of self-denial.”
Unused to self-denial is he? He's a man whore, its so disappointing. Goes with the times I guess but still...
.
It ends abruptly, with them confessing love then announcing a murderer so we don't get any witty lovely banter moments...
Also, the beginning info dumps are getting longer and longer, more and more tedious (as I start the next one!).
Peeve- I hate it when supposedly responsible people run and hide! Avoidance never fixes anything.
And I realize that this series is a single POV thru Bea's character but it wasn't until book 3 that I really felt the imbalance. Its too much Bea, not enough Duke! Dearly hoping the next book will heal my little heart after the spoiler- I have listed the quote at the bottom of the review.
This mystery is brought to you once again by the Otley Family. Strange connections have been happening and now - another murder!
Highlights and spoilers ahead!
Bea realizes the futility of her love:
It was almost enough to turn a foolish girl’s head. Fortunately, Bea wasn’t foolish. She was just imprudent enough to fall in love with him but too clever to believe for a moment that he could ever return her regard.
We get the wit we have come to love:
Bea nodded and imagined this was true, as Mrs. Otley seemed particularly devoted to remaining as ignorant as possible about many things.
Very well written:
Although the prospect of an existence entirely free of Kesgrave felt like a tragedy now, the truth was she’d known him for less than six months, which was really only a meager fraction of her life. She’d passed twenty-six mostly content years before him and would no doubt pass twenty-six mostly content years after him.
For some reason, this thought, which had been calculated to put a little steel in her spine, deflated her completely, and as she crossed the floor, she had to resist the urge to drop to her knees and weep like a small child.
Lady Abercrombie is an unexpected ally:
Trust me, my dear, I speak from experience: It cannot be love if it’s not returned. It’s something else and it’s just as painful, but it’s not love and you will get through it,” she said and reached over to grasp her hand.
The solemn intensity with which Lady Abercrombie spoke convinced Bea she believed every word she was saying.
Finally, the Duke:
"Do note, Miss Hyde-Clare, how quick I am to process new concepts and apply them to practical situations.” The glint of humor in his eyes revealed that he was enjoying one of his favorite pastimes: mocking himself as a way of teasing her.
---------------
To be treated like just another person in his life when he was in fact the most important person in hers was simply unbearable.
“No, I can’t dance with you,” Bea said frankly. “It’s out of the question.”
Despite his claim to wounded vanity, Kesgrave seemed only amused by her rejection and calmly asked her why it could not be considered.
----------------
“Well done, Kesgrave,” she said approvingly. “Very well done. You have the ability to learn from past mistakes, which is a very attractive and rare quality in a man. I believe there is hope for you yet.”
Although she meant the comment merely as a distraction from his efforts to restrict her movements, she could not smother the admiration she felt for him, and whatever ruse he was expecting, he appeared too struck by the warmth and sincerity of her tone to recall it.
Nonplussed, he stared at her for several long seconds before murmuring, “Is there? I think I might be too far gone.”
------------------
“I cannot tell if you are disappointed the wrong man died,” the duke said as soon as they were outside, “or if you’re disappointed you’ve been denied a satisfying conclusion.”
It was a fair question, and Bea did not take offense. Rather, she marveled at how easily Kesgrave could read her thoughts.
LOVED this:
“The most fun I’ve ever had in my whole life was watching you climb over the counter in Mercer Brothers while instructing Mr. Hamish on how to make his sign. You have thoroughly corrupted me,” he admitted, “and like any reprobate worth his salt I’m a grateful participant in my own downfall.”
BUT- this just hit me as so wrong:
“And to think I once foolishly believed I could desire your mind with every ounce of my being,” he said softly as he released her lips, “and not crave your body with every breath. We must get married at once, my love, for I am not accustomed to the sting of self-denial.”
Unused to self-denial is he? He's a man whore, its so disappointing. Goes with the times I guess but still...
.
It ends abruptly, with them confessing love then announcing a murderer so we don't get any witty lovely banter moments...
Also, the beginning info dumps are getting longer and longer, more and more tedious (as I start the next one!).
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