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Dear Miss Hermione #2
Of Hoaxes and Homicide
The second in the delightful Dear Miss Hermione mystery series from Anastasia Hastings—when you represent the best-loved Agony Aunt in Britain, fielding questions from both irate housekeepers and heartbroken mothers is par for the course...
"Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. And though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public conscious, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione's investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers that the runaway daughter in question is Sephora's dearest friend Margaret. Violet sets off to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return to London. But with the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh running around and a member of the Children found poisoned to death, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
"Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. And though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public conscious, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione's investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers that the runaway daughter in question is Sephora's dearest friend Margaret. Violet sets off to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return to London. But with the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh running around and a member of the Children found poisoned to death, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2024
80 people are currently reading
5213 people want to read
About the author
Anastasia Hastings
5 books178 followersAlso writes as Miranda Bliss, Casey Daniels, Zoe Daniels, Connie Deka, Mimi Granger, Anastasia Hastings, Connie Lane, Connie Laux, Constance Laux, Kylie Logan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
February 14, 2025
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second book in the Victorian Era Miss Hermione mystery series following Violet as she joins an infamous cult to save a friend. The book on the whole is a light fun read but the writing is stilted which detracts from the story.
The character arcs of both Violet and Sephora build upon what is shown in the first book. It's great to see them understand each other better once you get past their childish comments about each other. There are a lot of throwaway references of traveling in India and China inserted into the writing just to show Violet is broad-minded and traveled a lot. These references soon became too many and it's tough to imagine a non-aristocratic government worker (their father) had the leisure or money to travel the length and breadth of India, even if he was stationed there.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The rating is 2 1/2 stars rounded up to 3 stars as the series on the whole is interesting.
[Half a star for the premise and the whole book; Half a star for the characters; Half a star for the writing; 3/4 star for the story; 1/4 star for the world-building - 2 1/2 stars on the whole.]
The character arcs of both Violet and Sephora build upon what is shown in the first book. It's great to see them understand each other better once you get past their childish comments about each other. There are a lot of throwaway references of traveling in India and China inserted into the writing just to show Violet is broad-minded and traveled a lot. These references soon became too many and it's tough to imagine a non-aristocratic government worker (their father) had the leisure or money to travel the length and breadth of India, even if he was stationed there.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The rating is 2 1/2 stars rounded up to 3 stars as the series on the whole is interesting.
[Half a star for the premise and the whole book; Half a star for the characters; Half a star for the writing; 3/4 star for the story; 1/4 star for the world-building - 2 1/2 stars on the whole.]
February 19, 2024
3.5 stars for the second book in the Dear Miss Hermione series. Of Hoaxes and Homicide (Dear Miss Hermione, #2) by Anastasia Hastings proved to be another entertaining cozy mystery. This one was set in London and the English countryside in 1885, at the height of the Victorian era. Half sisters, Violet and Sephora, along with several new and returning characters, took a prominent role in this next book in the series. Violet reluctantly resumed her role as Miss Hermione. It seemed that both Violet and Sephora were feeling the effects of the boredom that was so prevalent in their lives, now that they were no longer involved in solving a murder mystery. Both Violet and Sephora had settled back into their old lives with the help of their faithful housekeeper, Bunty.
Out of obligation, Violet started reading the new correspondence addressed to Miss Hermione. She could not be bothered with such trivial matters as whether it was proper to have one pot of tea or two while serving guests. Then just as Violet was about to abandon the enormous pile of letters addressed to Miss Hermione, one particular letter intrigued Violet. It was from “A Heartbroken Mother”. The mother confided in Miss Hermione that her daughter had been lured into joining and living with a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. There was a popular book series that had been written using the cult as its main focus. Violet’s half sister Sephora was obsessed with these books. The author of the series, Count Orlando, had become an overnight sensation. The Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed were known for their human sacrifices, orgies and mystical powers. As Violet read more about the plea for help and advise from the heartbroken mother she suddenly realized that the daughter in question was no other than Sephora’s best friend, Margaret. Violet felt compelled to try and convince Margaret to leave the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Violet had to try and convince Margaret to return home to her parents. In order for Violet to convince Margaret that she should return home, Violet decided to feign interest in the Children of Aed and signed on for a trial stay. During her stay, one of the Children of Aed was found dead. Margaret was accused of the crime. Violet changed gears and began to investigate the murder. She knew that Margaret was incapable of committing a murder. Who was behind this heinous crime? Will Violet, Sephora and Bunty be able to clear Margaret’s name and save her from the fate that awaited her?
I enjoyed reacquainting myself with the characters I met in the first book of this series. Violet, Sephora, Eli Marsh, Bunty, Margaret and Sephora’s policeman friend were all back. There were lots of new characters as well. Will Violet and Eli finally give in to the feelings they were developing for each other? I was able to correctly identify who was behind all the foul play at the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed pretty early. To me, it was fairly obvious. Even though I guessed the person that was responsible for the murder and all the other things that were happening at the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed, I still found myself absorbed in this well plotted book. I enjoyed this new book in the Dear Miss Hermione series and recommend it if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch of romance.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read Of Hoaxes and Homicide by Anastasia Hastings through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Out of obligation, Violet started reading the new correspondence addressed to Miss Hermione. She could not be bothered with such trivial matters as whether it was proper to have one pot of tea or two while serving guests. Then just as Violet was about to abandon the enormous pile of letters addressed to Miss Hermione, one particular letter intrigued Violet. It was from “A Heartbroken Mother”. The mother confided in Miss Hermione that her daughter had been lured into joining and living with a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. There was a popular book series that had been written using the cult as its main focus. Violet’s half sister Sephora was obsessed with these books. The author of the series, Count Orlando, had become an overnight sensation. The Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed were known for their human sacrifices, orgies and mystical powers. As Violet read more about the plea for help and advise from the heartbroken mother she suddenly realized that the daughter in question was no other than Sephora’s best friend, Margaret. Violet felt compelled to try and convince Margaret to leave the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Violet had to try and convince Margaret to return home to her parents. In order for Violet to convince Margaret that she should return home, Violet decided to feign interest in the Children of Aed and signed on for a trial stay. During her stay, one of the Children of Aed was found dead. Margaret was accused of the crime. Violet changed gears and began to investigate the murder. She knew that Margaret was incapable of committing a murder. Who was behind this heinous crime? Will Violet, Sephora and Bunty be able to clear Margaret’s name and save her from the fate that awaited her?
I enjoyed reacquainting myself with the characters I met in the first book of this series. Violet, Sephora, Eli Marsh, Bunty, Margaret and Sephora’s policeman friend were all back. There were lots of new characters as well. Will Violet and Eli finally give in to the feelings they were developing for each other? I was able to correctly identify who was behind all the foul play at the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed pretty early. To me, it was fairly obvious. Even though I guessed the person that was responsible for the murder and all the other things that were happening at the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed, I still found myself absorbed in this well plotted book. I enjoyed this new book in the Dear Miss Hermione series and recommend it if you enjoy cozy mysteries with a touch of romance.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read Of Hoaxes and Homicide by Anastasia Hastings through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2024
A fun, historical cozy mystery is right up my alley. Missed the first in the Miss Hermione series, but this second one was easy to follow without having the read it.
Description:
"Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. And though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public conscious, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione's investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers that the runaway daughter in question is Sephora's dearest friend Margaret. Violet sets off to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return to London. But with the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh running around and a member of the Children found poisoned to death, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
My Thoughts:
The setting is a London of 1885 and I found the language and descriptions in the book fit the time period. I liked the concept of the 'Dear Miss Hermione' letters. I found the main character, Violet, to be a curious and indepenent woman who really liked being involved in an investigation and is determined to find answers. Her sister, Sephora, I think showed more backbone that Violet expected - you have to give her credit. There were red herrings to chase which made the investigation more interesting. Recommended for anyone who likes a period mystery.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
"Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. And though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public conscious, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione's investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers that the runaway daughter in question is Sephora's dearest friend Margaret. Violet sets off to the Children's compound in Nottintham to convince her to return to London. But with the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh running around and a member of the Children found poisoned to death, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
My Thoughts:
The setting is a London of 1885 and I found the language and descriptions in the book fit the time period. I liked the concept of the 'Dear Miss Hermione' letters. I found the main character, Violet, to be a curious and indepenent woman who really liked being involved in an investigation and is determined to find answers. Her sister, Sephora, I think showed more backbone that Violet expected - you have to give her credit. There were red herrings to chase which made the investigation more interesting. Recommended for anyone who likes a period mystery.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books through Netgalley for an advance copy.
February 2, 2024
It is 1885 in London and Violet is still writing the Dear Miss Hermione column. Most of the letters are mundane, offering no challenge and leaving her a bit bored but when she receives a letter from a distraught mother about her daughter who has run off to join a cult, the Children of Aed. Violet’s interest is piqued. And when she learns the runaway is her flighty half-sister, Sephora’s best friend, Margaret, she is determined to bring the girl home. While she leaves town to follow the cult, she asks their housekeeper, Bunty to do some investigating in London while keeping Sephora out of it. Unfortunately, Sephora is not easily distracted and soon she too is involved. But when a murder occurs, it is only a matter of time before the sisters find themselves knee deep in danger.
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second historical cozy mystery by Anastasia Hastings and it is an entertaining mystery with an interesting plot, likeable characters and with a nice touch of humour as well as a bit of romance. The story is split between Violet and Sephora, each with their own distinct voice. I did guess who dunnit pretty quickly but, despite this, the plot kept my interest throughout, so much so that I finished it in one day. I have thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series and look forward to the next entry in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second historical cozy mystery by Anastasia Hastings and it is an entertaining mystery with an interesting plot, likeable characters and with a nice touch of humour as well as a bit of romance. The story is split between Violet and Sephora, each with their own distinct voice. I did guess who dunnit pretty quickly but, despite this, the plot kept my interest throughout, so much so that I finished it in one day. I have thoroughly enjoyed both books in this series and look forward to the next entry in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
February 22, 2024
This was such a fantastic follow-up to the first book in the series. I actually enjoyed it a bit more. I loved the cult and magic aspects. It also has a kind of a Scooby-Doo vibe to it in the best way possible!
Violet's younger sister Sephora was great in this one. All of her sections were very comical and highly entertaining.
Of Hoaxes and Homicide was an amazingly fun mystery, and I'm so looking forward to the next installment in the Dear Miss Hermione series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Violet's younger sister Sephora was great in this one. All of her sections were very comical and highly entertaining.
Of Hoaxes and Homicide was an amazingly fun mystery, and I'm so looking forward to the next installment in the Dear Miss Hermione series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 27, 2023
What a fun historical cozy mystery set in 1885 London and in the English countryside. This second in series book continues the adventurous sleuthing of our plucky "Miss Hermione".
Half-sisters, Violet Manville and younger Sephora, having been orphaned, have settled into their paternal Aunt Adelia's home. They are in their early twenties. Violet lives modestly as she has no dowry. Whereas, Sephora thinks nothing of acquiring frilly frocks as she stands to inherit a sizable sum through her own mother, Mr. Manville's second wife. The difference in character, sensibilities and understanding of the value of money between the two sisters is tremendously vast. Violet is bright, logical and painfully frank. Sephora is flighty, careless and tends toward grand drama. Having continued with Aunt Adelia's "Miss Hermione" advice column during her aunt's extended continental stay, Violet receives a missive from a frantic mother of a young impressionable girl. It appears that the girl has been wooed into a cult and she refuses to leave. Violet goes under cover to try and set the resistant girl free. The girl refuses as she is to be handfasted to a man of the group's leader's choosing. That is until the intended gentleman winds up dead and the young girl is accused of his murder. Suddenly Violet's agenda turns from bringing the girl home to saving her from the noose. But can Violet accomplish this in the nick of time.
Author Anastasia Hasting (nom de plume of Connie Laux), is a fine writer and storyteller. In this story she has spun an intricate and at times, amusing tale highlighting the social mores of the day; how women were perceived and the risks one takes when lured into a secret cult. There are a number of red herrings and a passel of potential perpetrators. Plucky Violet will not stand down. She has a job to do and is committed to doing it well and thoroughly. If you enjoy historically set cozy mysteries, then I commend this story to you.
I am grateful to Minotaur Books for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication Date: January 30, 2024
No. of Pages: 304
ISBN No.: 978-1250848581
Half-sisters, Violet Manville and younger Sephora, having been orphaned, have settled into their paternal Aunt Adelia's home. They are in their early twenties. Violet lives modestly as she has no dowry. Whereas, Sephora thinks nothing of acquiring frilly frocks as she stands to inherit a sizable sum through her own mother, Mr. Manville's second wife. The difference in character, sensibilities and understanding of the value of money between the two sisters is tremendously vast. Violet is bright, logical and painfully frank. Sephora is flighty, careless and tends toward grand drama. Having continued with Aunt Adelia's "Miss Hermione" advice column during her aunt's extended continental stay, Violet receives a missive from a frantic mother of a young impressionable girl. It appears that the girl has been wooed into a cult and she refuses to leave. Violet goes under cover to try and set the resistant girl free. The girl refuses as she is to be handfasted to a man of the group's leader's choosing. That is until the intended gentleman winds up dead and the young girl is accused of his murder. Suddenly Violet's agenda turns from bringing the girl home to saving her from the noose. But can Violet accomplish this in the nick of time.
Author Anastasia Hasting (nom de plume of Connie Laux), is a fine writer and storyteller. In this story she has spun an intricate and at times, amusing tale highlighting the social mores of the day; how women were perceived and the risks one takes when lured into a secret cult. There are a number of red herrings and a passel of potential perpetrators. Plucky Violet will not stand down. She has a job to do and is committed to doing it well and thoroughly. If you enjoy historically set cozy mysteries, then I commend this story to you.
I am grateful to Minotaur Books for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication Date: January 30, 2024
No. of Pages: 304
ISBN No.: 978-1250848581
April 30, 2024
Violet and Sephora are in a better place in their relationship, though Violet continues to keep her role as Miss Hermione secret, knowing it would hurt Sephora if she discovered she was writing to her older, staid and colourless sister (Sephora's assessment, not mine).
When Miss Hermione receives a letter about a daughter who has joined an odd group, Violet decides this is the situation she'll investigate, particularly as the daughter is Sephora's friend Margaret.
Reluctantly taking Sephora with her to the group's gathering in a London park, Violet discovers that Margaret is involved with a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Violet is not impressed by the look of the group, nor some of their ideas, but decides she's following the group to Nottingham, where she pretends to be contemplating joining. She meets the charismatic leader, known as Master, and his right hand Celestia, a woman who seems to convey a sense of menace, even while calmly pouring tea and welcoming people.
Despite agreeing with a few of the ideas, Violet also feels a distaste for some of the dictates of the cult, and thinks one might have led to a murder, of which Margaret stands accused, and which occurs shortly after her arrival. To Violet's surprise, during her digging into the cult's members and activities, she runs into Eli Marsh, the American detective she met during her first investigation, and whom she is attracted to.
This was a fun entry in this series. Violet remains a keen observer, and not easily duped by the trappings of the cult. She does make some mistakes, landing her in some trouble, but I knew Violet would eventually find the murderer (who wasn't hard to figure out). But what was particularly nice about this book was both sisters working together for a change, with Sephora proving she's not just a silly young person. I think there's hope for Sephora to grow some real sense. And, we also get a much better understanding of who Bunty is and it was great!
This was a fun story, and I look forward to another entry in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
When Miss Hermione receives a letter about a daughter who has joined an odd group, Violet decides this is the situation she'll investigate, particularly as the daughter is Sephora's friend Margaret.
Reluctantly taking Sephora with her to the group's gathering in a London park, Violet discovers that Margaret is involved with a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Violet is not impressed by the look of the group, nor some of their ideas, but decides she's following the group to Nottingham, where she pretends to be contemplating joining. She meets the charismatic leader, known as Master, and his right hand Celestia, a woman who seems to convey a sense of menace, even while calmly pouring tea and welcoming people.
Despite agreeing with a few of the ideas, Violet also feels a distaste for some of the dictates of the cult, and thinks one might have led to a murder, of which Margaret stands accused, and which occurs shortly after her arrival. To Violet's surprise, during her digging into the cult's members and activities, she runs into Eli Marsh, the American detective she met during her first investigation, and whom she is attracted to.
This was a fun entry in this series. Violet remains a keen observer, and not easily duped by the trappings of the cult. She does make some mistakes, landing her in some trouble, but I knew Violet would eventually find the murderer (who wasn't hard to figure out). But what was particularly nice about this book was both sisters working together for a change, with Sephora proving she's not just a silly young person. I think there's hope for Sephora to grow some real sense. And, we also get a much better understanding of who Bunty is and it was great!
This was a fun story, and I look forward to another entry in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to St. Martin's Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
October 14, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Although I had correctly guessed early on who the culprit was, and liberties were taken with the amount of freedom young ladies would have had in the 1800’s, it was still a good mystery with lots of twists and turns.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the advance reader copy I won in a Goodreads giveaway.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for the advance reader copy I won in a Goodreads giveaway.
March 6, 2024
3.5 Stars
Pro:
* Violet’s character development
* Contrast in the characters/voices of the sisters
* Smooth prose
* Historical details
Con:
* Darker topic than I was expecting at the opening
* Drags a bit in the first half
* I knew the murderer very early.
Thank you to Anastasia Hastings, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for an advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pro:
* Violet’s character development
* Contrast in the characters/voices of the sisters
* Smooth prose
* Historical details
Con:
* Darker topic than I was expecting at the opening
* Drags a bit in the first half
* I knew the murderer very early.
Thank you to Anastasia Hastings, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for an advanced review copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2024
This one started out a bit slow and boring, I struggled with it and put it down, then I got the audiobook for it later on and it helped pick up the pace for me and I did enjoy it. I just didn't like it as much as book one.
July 14, 2025
Having enjoyed Of Manners and Murder so much, I definitely wanted to check this one out, and I enjoyed it quite a bit as well!
The set up of this one is that Violet Manville, having parlayed being an advice columnist into solving a crime in the first book, starts this book by taking on a different kind of detective work: she got a letter requesting advice from a mother whose daughter has joined a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed, and when she finds out that said daughter is actually her half-sister Sephora’s friend Margaret, she goes undercover as someone considering joining the cult to try and get Margaret to leave. But then, what do you know, a cult member gets murdered and Margaret is blamed for it, so now Violet (with some help from Sephora, hypercompetent housekeeper Bunty, and some dudes Violet and Sephora are into) has to prove Margaret’s innocence and figure out who the real killer is.
In comparing it to Of Manners and Murder, I’d say it does some things better and some things worse. I had a good guess who the killer was early on (even if I didn’t know why), and there’s some stuff along the way that seems obvious enough that it detracted from Violet’s vaunted detective skills that she didn’t figure it out. I also just generally found the cult stuff less compelling than the small village drama of the first book, though drawing on nineteenth-century Britain’s taste for the occult and fascination with Celtic lore for the mystery is a great concept. In terms of what worked well, I like that we got more focus on Bunty’s detective work, and I’m glad that Sephora got to play a more active role in helping solve the case as well, rather than just being kind of passive and silly. There are some well-depicted dramatic moments, and some interesting new characters introduced (though I suspect we won’t see many of them again). One of my favorites was a guy called Phoenix—without getting too spoilery about it, a lot of the members of the Children of Aed have ulterior motives for joining the cult, but Phoenix is actually a true believer. He’s a former vicar who feels that their emphasis on the connection with nature and service to the community gives him more spiritual fulfillment than worrying about the petty details of managing a church, and his presence helps make the cult feel a little less cartoonish or pulpy.
All in all, though I don’t know that this is a series that will stick with me, but I’m certainly enjoying it, and if another one comes out, I’ll probably read or listen to it, especially if I’m in the mood for something fun that won’t stress me out.
The set up of this one is that Violet Manville, having parlayed being an advice columnist into solving a crime in the first book, starts this book by taking on a different kind of detective work: she got a letter requesting advice from a mother whose daughter has joined a cult called the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed, and when she finds out that said daughter is actually her half-sister Sephora’s friend Margaret, she goes undercover as someone considering joining the cult to try and get Margaret to leave. But then, what do you know, a cult member gets murdered and Margaret is blamed for it, so now Violet (with some help from Sephora, hypercompetent housekeeper Bunty, and some dudes Violet and Sephora are into) has to prove Margaret’s innocence and figure out who the real killer is.
In comparing it to Of Manners and Murder, I’d say it does some things better and some things worse. I had a good guess who the killer was early on (even if I didn’t know why), and there’s some stuff along the way that seems obvious enough that it detracted from Violet’s vaunted detective skills that she didn’t figure it out. I also just generally found the cult stuff less compelling than the small village drama of the first book, though drawing on nineteenth-century Britain’s taste for the occult and fascination with Celtic lore for the mystery is a great concept. In terms of what worked well, I like that we got more focus on Bunty’s detective work, and I’m glad that Sephora got to play a more active role in helping solve the case as well, rather than just being kind of passive and silly. There are some well-depicted dramatic moments, and some interesting new characters introduced (though I suspect we won’t see many of them again). One of my favorites was a guy called Phoenix—without getting too spoilery about it, a lot of the members of the Children of Aed have ulterior motives for joining the cult, but Phoenix is actually a true believer. He’s a former vicar who feels that their emphasis on the connection with nature and service to the community gives him more spiritual fulfillment than worrying about the petty details of managing a church, and his presence helps make the cult feel a little less cartoonish or pulpy.
All in all, though I don’t know that this is a series that will stick with me, but I’m certainly enjoying it, and if another one comes out, I’ll probably read or listen to it, especially if I’m in the mood for something fun that won’t stress me out.
February 6, 2024
This was a fun, historical cozy mystery about a young impressionable girl who ended up falling into a cult. Violet has a “Miss Hermione” advice column, where she receives a missive from a mother, which leads her to going undercover to see if she can get the girl out of the cult. After a murder happens, she finds herself deeper in the investigation when the young girl is accused of the murder, and she tries to find out what is really going on behind the cult.
This one was fun to sit back and listen to as I worked on my crafts and mentally got sucked back in time and set on an adventure with a tenacious Miss Violet.
Thank you Net Galley and Minotaur Books for the arc!
This one was fun to sit back and listen to as I worked on my crafts and mentally got sucked back in time and set on an adventure with a tenacious Miss Violet.
Thank you Net Galley and Minotaur Books for the arc!
January 3, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ audiobook
Fun murder mystery about a cult
Fun murder mystery about a cult
May 28, 2025
4⭐️
I loved this series. i can only hope there will be more but this was an excellent ending if not
I loved this series. i can only hope there will be more but this was an excellent ending if not
December 27, 2023
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the first book I've read in this series, and I had no trouble following along. I thought this was a fun historical mystery, I was a bit worried when I first started it as the first POV we read from is Sephora, and while I liked her as a character and Violet's sister I could tell from that first meeting I wouldn't like an entire book from her perspective. I enjoyed the story from Violet's POV and her budding romance with a man she met in the first book.
The introduction to a cult, and a young woman Violet and her sister know has been taken by them was really interesting and Violet's digging into the cult and finding a killer kept me entertained. I loved how she went about solving the case and how Sephora and Bunty( the housekeeper) helped along the way. )
This book had a great atmosphere, and I really enjoyed trying to solve the case. I didn't figure out who the killer was until the end.
I would be interested in continuing on in this series.
The introduction to a cult, and a young woman Violet and her sister know has been taken by them was really interesting and Violet's digging into the cult and finding a killer kept me entertained. I loved how she went about solving the case and how Sephora and Bunty( the housekeeper) helped along the way. )
This book had a great atmosphere, and I really enjoyed trying to solve the case. I didn't figure out who the killer was until the end.
I would be interested in continuing on in this series.
November 24, 2023
What a mystery! It was slow to start for me because it opened from sixteen year old Sephora’s POV, and she is so silly and annoying. Fortunately, she began to find her voice throughout the book. Older sister Violet, however, is a rockstar. After the first few chapters, the story took off and was thrilling to the very end.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 22, 2023
Thank you so much goodreads for this book!
I enjoyed this book - it was a nice easy read, a fun twisty mystery!
I enjoyed this book - it was a nice easy read, a fun twisty mystery!
April 12, 2024
Excellent second entry in a promising series (read my review of Of Manner and Murder [2023]). Once again, this story is charming with a superbly-realized 1885 Victorian England setting that pivots from London to the atmospheric and ruined Alburn Abbey and a plot revolving around a religious cult: the Children of Aed and its charismatic leader, Master. Violet continues to be a practical and assured 1st person narrator (URN) who does a great deal of internal rambling as she picks apart the mysteries at hand. In this installment we also once again hear from Sephora, her younger, more wealthy, more impressionable younger sister who does not understand her plainer, more scholarly, older sister’s lack of affinity for society and all that entails, especially the need/desire for a husband. I was pleased that in this book, Sephora grows a bit and the sisters begin to see each other differently as they and their CHs progress. Their maid Bunty also gets more fleshed out in this story and much of the narrative’s humor is found through her reactions and Sephora’s assumptions. Tone and Pace build as cold and danger combine at the Abbey, not to mention some ST that arrives as a welcome surprise with Eli from the first book, and the continuing exploration of policeman James and Sephora’s relationship. Thematic content revolves around women’s roles again, but this also explores the sensational journalism of the era and vaudevillian entertainments. Readers who have enjoyed similar Victorian mysteries with a dash of Romance and headstrong, independent women like Diane Freeman, Tasha Alexander and Sherry Thomas should give this a try. Reading in order not necessary but encouraged for the enjoyment of the ride and CH development.
May 9, 2024
Violet Manville, who secretly writes the advice column "Dear Miss Hermoine," has received a letter from an anguished mother whose well-bred daughter has run off to join the scandalous cult, The Children of Aed. When she goes to hear their leader speak, she recognizes one of the acolytes as her half-sister's frivolous friend Margaret. That makes things personal, so Violet goes up north to visit the cult's headquarters. As soon as she gets there, one of the worshippers is found murdered and Margaret is accused. Violet tries to find out what's going on, with the help of her London-based half-sister Sephora (who finds herself enjoying the company of the gentlemanly--but not well-born--police constable) and their housekeeper Bunty, who has friends in low places.
September 16, 2024
Hastings' writing is easy to dive into and no there is no extravagance in her writing-it is concise and immersive. The mystery was equally as compelling (although maybe not the hardest case to solve). I would say this could be considered a cozy historical mystery with a romantic subplot.
I adore Violet and she is just as compelling and interesting in the second book in this series. While Violet has a stoic strength to her, she is equally as soft and compassionate.
Lastly, I have to add that I loved the character development when it came to learning more about the secondary characters who serve as Violet's found family. You can jump in at this book if you wish, but I would highly recommend reading the first book as I found it to be perfection!
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for the opportunity to respond to this book with my honest opinions.
I adore Violet and she is just as compelling and interesting in the second book in this series. While Violet has a stoic strength to her, she is equally as soft and compassionate.
Lastly, I have to add that I loved the character development when it came to learning more about the secondary characters who serve as Violet's found family. You can jump in at this book if you wish, but I would highly recommend reading the first book as I found it to be perfection!
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for the opportunity to respond to this book with my honest opinions.
February 18, 2024
An advice columnist and a cult in late 19th century London? Yes, please!
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second book in the Dear Miss Hermione series, but I think it works fine as a stand-alone read.
This was a fun romp! The characters are entertaining, likable, and quirky, which are all the things I need in a cozy mystery.
I don’t always find cozy mysteries believable, but like the first book, the plot here feels plausible. I enjoyed uncovering all the clues and fitting the pieces together.
I’m looking forward to spending more time with all the characters!
*I received an eARC from Minotaur Books, via NetGalley.*
Of Hoaxes and Homicide is the second book in the Dear Miss Hermione series, but I think it works fine as a stand-alone read.
This was a fun romp! The characters are entertaining, likable, and quirky, which are all the things I need in a cozy mystery.
I don’t always find cozy mysteries believable, but like the first book, the plot here feels plausible. I enjoyed uncovering all the clues and fitting the pieces together.
I’m looking forward to spending more time with all the characters!
*I received an eARC from Minotaur Books, via NetGalley.*
January 31, 2024
I think I enjoyed this book even more than the first! What’s not to love about cults, orgies and sacrifices!!??
Violet is coming down from her high of solving a murder last summer. She is still acting as Miss Hermione, the advice columnist. When a letter comes in from a concerned parent, afraid of her daughters fate, Violet heads off to join the cult and find missing woman, who just happens to be her sister, Sephora’s best friend.
I love Violets sassy, push the limits attitude as well as her intuitive nature. I am hoping for another in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Violet is coming down from her high of solving a murder last summer. She is still acting as Miss Hermione, the advice columnist. When a letter comes in from a concerned parent, afraid of her daughters fate, Violet heads off to join the cult and find missing woman, who just happens to be her sister, Sephora’s best friend.
I love Violets sassy, push the limits attitude as well as her intuitive nature. I am hoping for another in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 18, 2025
This second Dear Miss Hermione mystery did not quite live up to the cleverness of the first, but I found it enjoyable nonetheless. I was expecting a much creepier/spookier storyline, but it wasn’t heavy on either. Violet follows leads that take her to a cult compound while her sister stays in London and follows her own leads, which eventually bring them together. Again, this book offers chapters from the perspective of multiple characters but it worked better for this storyline as it offered different perspectives on the plot too. I was expecting the characters to unfold and develop more than they did as well. It’s an enjoyable series, and I would read more if she wrote another! But maybe not my favorite historical murder mystery that I’ve read.
February 20, 2024
I’m not sure why, but this second installment in the Dear Miss Hermione series didn’t enchant me quite the way the first did. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn’t great. Or maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for it when I read it. I don’t know. It was very predictable, which in and of itself isn’t always bad, but “the ride” just wasn’t as fun this time around. I will still likely read the next in the series, though.
February 1, 2024
Another really good book in this series!
March 15, 2024
Looking forward to the next book.
May 8, 2024
Mysteries and cults feel like an exciting combination, but the ones presented here somehow fall so flat and forgettable.
February 6, 2024
I loved the first book but did not enjoy this follow up. Book 2’s plot should have been easy to follow but I felt the secondary characters were so boring I hardly cared what happened. I struggled to finish this and only did so because I’d gone to the trouble of pre-ordering it.
February 25, 2025
Enjoy the characters and development in this series, the storyline in this book, not so much. Still an enjoyable read, if somewhat strange.
November 28, 2023
Dear Miss Hermione—what is a mother to do?"
Of Hoaxes and Homicide
by Anastasia Hastings
Pub Date: 30 Jan 2024
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. Though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public consciousness, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione’s investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers a surprising connection to the cult. With the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh turning up and a member of the Children poisoned, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
Of Hoaxes and Homicide
by Anastasia Hastings
Pub Date: 30 Jan 2024
Sensible Violet Manville and her very ladylike half-sister Sephora are absolutely bored, thank you very much. Though neither of them would ever admit it aloud, they're missing the thrill of playing detective.
So when Violet receives a letter from "A Heartbroken Mother" sent to her alter-ego, the Agony Aunt known to the world only as Miss Hermione, her pulse can't help but quicken. The daughter in question has gotten caught up in a cult: the Hermetic Order of the Children of Aed. Rumors of human sacrifices, mystical doings, and a ghost in the ruined Alburn Abbey where the Children pray have gripped the public consciousness, helped along by a series of novels about the group, written by the mysterious Count Orlando, and clearly this girl has fallen prey.
Miss Hermione’s investigation soon collides with very real life when Violet discovers a surprising connection to the cult. With the dashing-but-frustrating Eli Marsh turning up and a member of the Children poisoned, Violet and Sephora—along with their ever-trusty housekeeper Bunty—may have more intrigue than they can manage.
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