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The Perfect Poison Murders #4
The Deadly Debutante
Poppy receives the gift of a London Season from her distant father; he hopes she might make a suitable match. Although she would prefer to spend time with her beau, Sergeant Dyngley, Poppy’s uncle will only agree if she also sees the odious Mr. Terrence Terrell.
Henry Dyngley is thrilled to be promoted to Sergeant. As a favor to the judge who arranged his promotion, he agrees to escort the man’s daughter for the Season. But he soon learns the judge’s family has chosen him as a desirable son-in-law and will do anything to achieve this, regardless of what feelings Henry may have for another girl.
In London, Poppy’s new debutante friends are surrounded by scandal due to a past incident that left one man dead. Now they are stalked by suitors who want answers, and someone has decided that only death will right a past wrong.
One of Poppy’s new friends begs her to help find the culprit. But if Poppy is to succeed, she will have to are they innocent friends or deadly debutantes?
Can Poppy find the killer in time? Will she and Sergeant Dyngley ever be together, or will she be forced to marry Mr. Terrell?
Read free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
Henry Dyngley is thrilled to be promoted to Sergeant. As a favor to the judge who arranged his promotion, he agrees to escort the man’s daughter for the Season. But he soon learns the judge’s family has chosen him as a desirable son-in-law and will do anything to achieve this, regardless of what feelings Henry may have for another girl.
In London, Poppy’s new debutante friends are surrounded by scandal due to a past incident that left one man dead. Now they are stalked by suitors who want answers, and someone has decided that only death will right a past wrong.
One of Poppy’s new friends begs her to help find the culprit. But if Poppy is to succeed, she will have to are they innocent friends or deadly debutantes?
Can Poppy find the killer in time? Will she and Sergeant Dyngley ever be together, or will she be forced to marry Mr. Terrell?
Read free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2023
46 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
E.L. Johnson
7 books34 followersI write novels. I'm a member of the Hertford Writers’ Circle and won the Sci-Fi London Film Festival’s 2014 48 hour Flash Fiction challenge.
When not penning stories I'm an avid reader, a decent epeé fencer, and live with my husband and cat Arya, named after the Game of Thrones character.
I also run a chatty book club in London and sometimes sing in metal bands in London.
Want fun updates from me on writing, fav tweets, lotsa books and mini mysteries?
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When not penning stories I'm an avid reader, a decent epeé fencer, and live with my husband and cat Arya, named after the Game of Thrones character.
I also run a chatty book club in London and sometimes sing in metal bands in London.
Want fun updates from me on writing, fav tweets, lotsa books and mini mysteries?
Sign up to my newsletter: https://eljohnsonstories.weebly.com/c...
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 26, 2023
So many murders, but how many suspects?
Poppy travels to have a season as requested by her father that she recently found out about. Her mother was his Mistress, so if that secret got out, she could be disowned by the ton.
Henry, now Seargent Dyngly, also heads for the season with an annoying sister in law trying to find a lady for him.
Poppy meets a group of ladies and she starts to learn of a previous fall death and a lot of bad accidents. As events progress more tragedy strikes and Poppy is in the middle of it all, but trying to solve the mystery.
Even though we want Poppy to get more time with Henry in this book, clingy Mr. Terrell is forced to be her suitor by her uncle. Boy is he creepy.
I like how this unfolded and how everything was revealed at the end. I had some suspicions, but there is definitely a lot of series of events that lined up to help figure it all out. This mystery had a good puzzle to it. I want to see what happens with Poppy next after how much went down in this book!
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Poppy travels to have a season as requested by her father that she recently found out about. Her mother was his Mistress, so if that secret got out, she could be disowned by the ton.
Henry, now Seargent Dyngly, also heads for the season with an annoying sister in law trying to find a lady for him.
Poppy meets a group of ladies and she starts to learn of a previous fall death and a lot of bad accidents. As events progress more tragedy strikes and Poppy is in the middle of it all, but trying to solve the mystery.
Even though we want Poppy to get more time with Henry in this book, clingy Mr. Terrell is forced to be her suitor by her uncle. Boy is he creepy.
I like how this unfolded and how everything was revealed at the end. I had some suspicions, but there is definitely a lot of series of events that lined up to help figure it all out. This mystery had a good puzzle to it. I want to see what happens with Poppy next after how much went down in this book!
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
July 29, 2023
The Deadly Debutante. Oh- my- God- this - book - was- fantastic. For me this is another smashing good book bedmate to cuddle up to. Put it this way, while reading this book, I didn’t pay attention to the outside world called my life. This story is filled with mystery and suspense.
The leading female character, Poppy is totally amazing. The writer created a realistic story that took me on a tour filled with exciting and entertaining events. These events somehow always follows Poppy and her family. Like I always say; I love it when a book crosses my path with the ability to grab my intrigues imagination with a story that reads like a movie. The plot was excellent for the main characters.
For their own gratification of survival, the protagonist and antagonist maintained their goals that are often times emotional and very passionate. These details bring the heat to the story. Now I know that you are wondering why I stated “survival”. I chose this term, because once you read the book, you will think that everyone is taking their turn in a UFC match. All the secrets, lies and evil intentions appears from the darkest corners where the light from a candle can not reach. I enjoyed the fact that this story was a page turner that kept me up, reading into the late night hours. It was the anticipation of needing to know who did what and how it happened. It was also the blooming romance between Poppy and her constable Henry Dyngley that stills the show for us readers. I wanted something to happen between these two so bad. My favorite characters are Miss Cook and Aunt Rachel.
These two from the beginning new what was up, and who to keep a watchful eye out for. Mr. Terrell and Uncle Richard really grated on my nerves, but that’s how good the writing is, because these two characters were so believable. Poppy’s name was a good one for her character. Every time that little vermin said whore or called her Poppy she should ball up her fist and pop him in the eye.
Vermin: Now Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently acts) I’m sorry did you say something?
Vermin: Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently caring) Oh dear. Did something get caught in your eye? ( Pause ) Excuse me, but are you ill?
People if you love a good historical romance with suspicious characters, then this is the book. If you love a crazy uncle and a loving aunt, then this is the book. If you love a hero who needs to be reminded of what he has standing before him with her heart reaching out to him, then this is the book. Lets talk about the book. Clearly we suspect that something is transpiring between Poppy and Henry.
I thought that the introduction of their romance is very thoughtful and wonderfully written. I pictured Henry as a Mr. Holmes. In his early stages, mind you. One thing that will never change for Henry is his desire for Poppy and his willingness to make her smile and be happy every moment of every day. Oh no! Don’t say that. Sigh. What ever are you to do Miss Parkinson?
Do you hear me laughing? Bwahaha. Poppy is the most sought after young woman who everyone must have the attention of. I think it’s because the warm compassion and the beauty of her person that listens to them. Through not fault of her own some people are jealous of this.
And believe me, Poppy now’s how to handle herself. Don’t worry about the action, because Henry has her six. Sarah, Sarah. What can I say about this woman? I know what I can say. If I’m wearing my elegant white gown and whine has been thrown on me! You remember that intro of Stone Cold in WMA fights? That’s me.
Can you hear the bell ding? I’m coming at cha wearing the face of M. Ali. Be ready, because my strike is like Ali’s last punch in the final round. I tell you. It will be like a meet me outside moment.
Somewhere in all this can Poppy and her father have a bonding relationship? I give this book two snaps and a, excuse me Mr. Terrell. The left or right eye? How about just the nose? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book for a voluntary honest review
The leading female character, Poppy is totally amazing. The writer created a realistic story that took me on a tour filled with exciting and entertaining events. These events somehow always follows Poppy and her family. Like I always say; I love it when a book crosses my path with the ability to grab my intrigues imagination with a story that reads like a movie. The plot was excellent for the main characters.
For their own gratification of survival, the protagonist and antagonist maintained their goals that are often times emotional and very passionate. These details bring the heat to the story. Now I know that you are wondering why I stated “survival”. I chose this term, because once you read the book, you will think that everyone is taking their turn in a UFC match. All the secrets, lies and evil intentions appears from the darkest corners where the light from a candle can not reach. I enjoyed the fact that this story was a page turner that kept me up, reading into the late night hours. It was the anticipation of needing to know who did what and how it happened. It was also the blooming romance between Poppy and her constable Henry Dyngley that stills the show for us readers. I wanted something to happen between these two so bad. My favorite characters are Miss Cook and Aunt Rachel.
These two from the beginning new what was up, and who to keep a watchful eye out for. Mr. Terrell and Uncle Richard really grated on my nerves, but that’s how good the writing is, because these two characters were so believable. Poppy’s name was a good one for her character. Every time that little vermin said whore or called her Poppy she should ball up her fist and pop him in the eye.
Vermin: Now Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently acts) I’m sorry did you say something?
Vermin: Pop- oww!
Poppy: ( Innocently caring) Oh dear. Did something get caught in your eye? ( Pause ) Excuse me, but are you ill?
People if you love a good historical romance with suspicious characters, then this is the book. If you love a crazy uncle and a loving aunt, then this is the book. If you love a hero who needs to be reminded of what he has standing before him with her heart reaching out to him, then this is the book. Lets talk about the book. Clearly we suspect that something is transpiring between Poppy and Henry.
I thought that the introduction of their romance is very thoughtful and wonderfully written. I pictured Henry as a Mr. Holmes. In his early stages, mind you. One thing that will never change for Henry is his desire for Poppy and his willingness to make her smile and be happy every moment of every day. Oh no! Don’t say that. Sigh. What ever are you to do Miss Parkinson?
Do you hear me laughing? Bwahaha. Poppy is the most sought after young woman who everyone must have the attention of. I think it’s because the warm compassion and the beauty of her person that listens to them. Through not fault of her own some people are jealous of this.
And believe me, Poppy now’s how to handle herself. Don’t worry about the action, because Henry has her six. Sarah, Sarah. What can I say about this woman? I know what I can say. If I’m wearing my elegant white gown and whine has been thrown on me! You remember that intro of Stone Cold in WMA fights? That’s me.
Can you hear the bell ding? I’m coming at cha wearing the face of M. Ali. Be ready, because my strike is like Ali’s last punch in the final round. I tell you. It will be like a meet me outside moment.
Somewhere in all this can Poppy and her father have a bonding relationship? I give this book two snaps and a, excuse me Mr. Terrell. The left or right eye? How about just the nose? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book for a voluntary honest review
July 8, 2023
3.5 stars
I'm sure I liked the others in the series. We are still in the will they / wont they between Poppy and Henry.
Poppy's father, who made himself known at the end of the third book, wants to give Poppy a season as long as his connection and the fact that she's illegitimate doesn't come out. Her Uncle the vicar is fairly condescending but his wife persuades him to let them all go to London. They take along the vicar's creepy protege. Poppy meets other young ladies. I think it's worth pointing out that the social setting for these interactions is above the demi mode but only slightly encroaching on the ton, thus Poppy seems to have more freedom that I'd expect for someone having a season. She solves a theft and is on her way to solving a murder before another one takes place. Henry IMO is a bit of a fool and lets himself be manipulated by a Judges family, his sister-in-law and the many husband hungry devutantes. I think if you are a teenager you'll probably enjoy this series but I am starting to find it hard work. I liked that Tom came back into the story. It may be that this is the last of the series?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm sure I liked the others in the series. We are still in the will they / wont they between Poppy and Henry.
Poppy's father, who made himself known at the end of the third book, wants to give Poppy a season as long as his connection and the fact that she's illegitimate doesn't come out. Her Uncle the vicar is fairly condescending but his wife persuades him to let them all go to London. They take along the vicar's creepy protege. Poppy meets other young ladies. I think it's worth pointing out that the social setting for these interactions is above the demi mode but only slightly encroaching on the ton, thus Poppy seems to have more freedom that I'd expect for someone having a season. She solves a theft and is on her way to solving a murder before another one takes place. Henry IMO is a bit of a fool and lets himself be manipulated by a Judges family, his sister-in-law and the many husband hungry devutantes. I think if you are a teenager you'll probably enjoy this series but I am starting to find it hard work. I liked that Tom came back into the story. It may be that this is the last of the series?
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 5, 2023
Poppy receives the gift of a London Season from her distant father; who hopes she might make a suitable match. Although she would prefer to spend time with her beau, Sergeant Henry Dyngley. Henry’s thrilled to be promoted to Sergeant. As a favour to the judge who arranged his promotion, he agrees to escort the man’s daughter for the Season not knowing that the judge’s family has chosen him as a desirable son-in-law and will do anything to achieve this, regardless of what feelings Henry may have for another girl. In London, Poppy’s new debutante friends are surrounded by scandal due to a past incident that left one man dead. Now they are stalked by suitors who want answers, and someone has decided that only death will right a past wrong. One of Poppy’s new friends begs her to help find the culprit.
The fourth outing for Poppy & Henry, it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading in order. I love Poppy & even when things fall apart she pulls herself together & carries on, she’s strong & intelligent. Oh Henry you really blotted your copy book in this book, I would certainly have made you grovel! A very well written book, which flowed effortlessly, the characters are well portrayed & there’s even more than one mystery, I thoroughly enjoyed it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fourth outing for Poppy & Henry, it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading in order. I love Poppy & even when things fall apart she pulls herself together & carries on, she’s strong & intelligent. Oh Henry you really blotted your copy book in this book, I would certainly have made you grovel! A very well written book, which flowed effortlessly, the characters are well portrayed & there’s even more than one mystery, I thoroughly enjoyed it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 20, 2023
An interlaced mystery darkened by jealousy, snobbish interference & malicious rumour!
Frustrating obnoxious suitors, hidden motives, suspicious goings on, devious scheming and unsavoury questionable accidents abound as Poppy sets forth for a London Season.
Old friends and new swirl as an ominious cloud cloaks Poppy and seemingly pushes her further away from Henry, despite hope finally making its presence known as he declares his desire to court her.
A compelling array of mysteries and frustrating interferences are set in their path as Poppy slowly begins to unpick and unearth all the games and covert agendas at play that surrounds her beneath the smiles of friendship, unwanted matchmaking and wounded bickering...some so much more obvious to read than others and some with motives that allude cleverly until the big reveal. Whilst, honesty, loyalty and intentions come under question and wet the air with a looming mass of ill-intent that causes all sorts of ruinous problems for Poppy.
I'm really fond of Poppy and love her lack of gullibility, keen mind and questioning nature inspite of her uncertainities. With her strong, kind heart that wants to see the good in all as she judges on merit and action not rumour or conjecture regardless of status, background or assurance. Where any romance, once again becomes a secondary entangled thread to the mystery, where despite loosing faith a little in Henry, our police sergeant romantic lead...especially in the last book as many of his actions deserved so many rigorous shakes I'm surprised he's not dizzy from me mentally trying to knock some sense into him... I still want them to defie the odds and find that allusive happiness together.
But getting to hear more from his side too really helped show how much he is struggling with conflicting loyalties. But will he be able to finally stand up for his heart's desire or bow to his family's dire financial constraints and his sister-in-laws prejudice?
An enjoyable read! I'm really loving this series as each book becomes so hard to put down until all the mysteries have be resolved as Poppy is continuously forced to defie the odds to prove her value, worth and essentially fight to come out on top. Despite, her often becoming magnetically entangled in the felonious conduct that appears to escalate tenfold around her!
Frustrating obnoxious suitors, hidden motives, suspicious goings on, devious scheming and unsavoury questionable accidents abound as Poppy sets forth for a London Season.
Old friends and new swirl as an ominious cloud cloaks Poppy and seemingly pushes her further away from Henry, despite hope finally making its presence known as he declares his desire to court her.
A compelling array of mysteries and frustrating interferences are set in their path as Poppy slowly begins to unpick and unearth all the games and covert agendas at play that surrounds her beneath the smiles of friendship, unwanted matchmaking and wounded bickering...some so much more obvious to read than others and some with motives that allude cleverly until the big reveal. Whilst, honesty, loyalty and intentions come under question and wet the air with a looming mass of ill-intent that causes all sorts of ruinous problems for Poppy.
I'm really fond of Poppy and love her lack of gullibility, keen mind and questioning nature inspite of her uncertainities. With her strong, kind heart that wants to see the good in all as she judges on merit and action not rumour or conjecture regardless of status, background or assurance. Where any romance, once again becomes a secondary entangled thread to the mystery, where despite loosing faith a little in Henry, our police sergeant romantic lead...especially in the last book as many of his actions deserved so many rigorous shakes I'm surprised he's not dizzy from me mentally trying to knock some sense into him... I still want them to defie the odds and find that allusive happiness together.
But getting to hear more from his side too really helped show how much he is struggling with conflicting loyalties. But will he be able to finally stand up for his heart's desire or bow to his family's dire financial constraints and his sister-in-laws prejudice?
An enjoyable read! I'm really loving this series as each book becomes so hard to put down until all the mysteries have be resolved as Poppy is continuously forced to defie the odds to prove her value, worth and essentially fight to come out on top. Despite, her often becoming magnetically entangled in the felonious conduct that appears to escalate tenfold around her!
July 8, 2023
Miss Poppy Morton has had a lot of changes and adventures in the last year. Now a recently found relative ìs giving her a London season. Her investigations, adventures and family upheaval continues.
Henry Dyngley has received a promotion, but it had strings attached he doesn't know about.
Both of our lead characters are under family pressure, but death proves quite a distraction.
This book is part of a series that really should be read in order. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all of them. Lots of murder and mystery for us to solve along with our characters. It's very difficult to guess the villain amongst so many people with dubious characters to choose from.
Great fun.
Henry Dyngley has received a promotion, but it had strings attached he doesn't know about.
Both of our lead characters are under family pressure, but death proves quite a distraction.
This book is part of a series that really should be read in order. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all of them. Lots of murder and mystery for us to solve along with our characters. It's very difficult to guess the villain amongst so many people with dubious characters to choose from.
Great fun.
July 12, 2023
I enjoyed every page of this book. Poppy's adventures into high society are eye opening. The antics of the wealthy and hoping to be wealthy blow away some of the country innocence that have surrounded her . As she begins her first Season, gifted by her father, she discovers mysteries, murder, and betrayal among her newly found friends. The almost conclusion is very exciting. I am hoping for volume #5 to be released soon.
July 27, 2023
The Deadly Debutante
Loved this book!! It starts out slow but they put the coals to the engine and the story moves fast with dangerous curves ahead! You can ill never figure out who done it😁😍
Loved this book!! It starts out slow but they put the coals to the engine and the story moves fast with dangerous curves ahead! You can ill never figure out who done it😁😍
July 26, 2023
A fun read overall.
July 23, 2023
Another delightful book! I’ve enjoyed this series about the wonderfully, intelligent, strong, innocent hero & heroine! The storylines are complex, leading the reader through the personal growth of the main characters as well as the mysteries they find themselves entangled in! Well done!!!
July 14, 2023
Perfect For Young Teens.
I love Historical Mysteries, it's my favorite place to escape, balls, horseback riding, walks in pretty gardens, shopping for dresses, going to Gunters for an ice. What we do have is murderer, someone out to destroy the lives of five young ladies, who are partaking in The Season, The Marriage Mart, and yes it's competitive, in this book, it's deathly competitive. That part of the story I found interesting, the parts that I found to be juvenile is the attitude of Poppy, this is part of a series, and this is my first book, I found Poppy immature, kind yes, but not overly intelligent, she lets herself be intimidated by her Uncle who has raised her, her Aunt Rachel, her dead Mother's sister is so naive that it makes her appear lacking in sense. Henry, her love interest, who is a Police Seargent is not the sharpest card in the deck. It's not only that, he is a wimp for not standing up to his horrendously overbearing sister - in - law! Henry supports them all because his older brother, the heir shouldn't be working? I know about the aristocracy, but for Henry to allow his brother to be a lazy bum makes me dislike Henry, not applaud him. I think that is my problem, I didn't like any of the characters, none of them, not the hero and heroine, not the secondary characters, an Earl' s son, who should be called by his courtesy title, is a pimp? Really? I am glad I got this through KU, and didn't pay for it, I would want my money returned. I hate writing negative reviews, but I write honest reviews, and this is my humble opinion. The characters didn't mesh, I kept waiting for Poppy to trust her instincts, and stand up for herself but she never does, very disappointing.
Thank you.
carolintallahassee
I love Historical Mysteries, it's my favorite place to escape, balls, horseback riding, walks in pretty gardens, shopping for dresses, going to Gunters for an ice. What we do have is murderer, someone out to destroy the lives of five young ladies, who are partaking in The Season, The Marriage Mart, and yes it's competitive, in this book, it's deathly competitive. That part of the story I found interesting, the parts that I found to be juvenile is the attitude of Poppy, this is part of a series, and this is my first book, I found Poppy immature, kind yes, but not overly intelligent, she lets herself be intimidated by her Uncle who has raised her, her Aunt Rachel, her dead Mother's sister is so naive that it makes her appear lacking in sense. Henry, her love interest, who is a Police Seargent is not the sharpest card in the deck. It's not only that, he is a wimp for not standing up to his horrendously overbearing sister - in - law! Henry supports them all because his older brother, the heir shouldn't be working? I know about the aristocracy, but for Henry to allow his brother to be a lazy bum makes me dislike Henry, not applaud him. I think that is my problem, I didn't like any of the characters, none of them, not the hero and heroine, not the secondary characters, an Earl' s son, who should be called by his courtesy title, is a pimp? Really? I am glad I got this through KU, and didn't pay for it, I would want my money returned. I hate writing negative reviews, but I write honest reviews, and this is my humble opinion. The characters didn't mesh, I kept waiting for Poppy to trust her instincts, and stand up for herself but she never does, very disappointing.
Thank you.
carolintallahassee
June 30, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I really enjoyed the previous books in this series so I came in with some high expectations - which were happily met. I have loved the character of Poppy since we met her in the first book. She's smart, strong, and doesn't let anything keep her down for too long. Even when everything falls apart in this story she takes her moment to cry it out and then is back on her feet standing up for herself (and solving a murder). I had been hoping we would get to know more about Tom (from book 3) and we certainly did! I love his back-and-forth with Poppy. If she wasn't so in love with Henry I would 100% be supportive of a Poppy-Tom relationship. I also loved to see how Aunt Rachel kept coming through for Poppy - the moment between her and Susan was definitely one of my favorites. Henry and Poppy's uncle really let me down in this book. Her uncle was so judgmental and hypocritical (as Poppy points out to him). I can understand as a member of the clergy why he may have complicated feelings about Poppy - he obviously loves her but at the same time can't get past who her parents are - but his support of Mr. Terrell even with all the shady stuff he had been doing just had me rolling my eyes. As for Henry, boy did he drop Poppy as soon as things got tough. When he accused Poppy of accusing Miss Parkinson of being a thief because she was jealous I wanted to smack him. I mean, come on, this is Poppy we are talking about, how could he think that of her? And to accuse of her being jealous when he couldn't stand to see her interacting with any male was downright hypocritical. Even after he had cut off ties with her he was still jealous when he saw her with another man. He comes through in the end, but I think Poppy let him off the hook a little too easily. Petunia was a complicated character in book 3 but here is just awful and unlikable. As for the mystery, it actually ended up being like 3 mysteries for the price of 1. It turned out Poppy didn't really need to do much investigating, she just needed to listen and pay attention to what was going on around her. The killer in this one was completely unhinged, but hid it pretty well through most of the book. I did not like her plan for saving Susan (I don't want to give anything away, but I'm sure you'll agree once you get to that part). I can't wait to see what comes next for Poppy.
I really enjoyed the previous books in this series so I came in with some high expectations - which were happily met. I have loved the character of Poppy since we met her in the first book. She's smart, strong, and doesn't let anything keep her down for too long. Even when everything falls apart in this story she takes her moment to cry it out and then is back on her feet standing up for herself (and solving a murder). I had been hoping we would get to know more about Tom (from book 3) and we certainly did! I love his back-and-forth with Poppy. If she wasn't so in love with Henry I would 100% be supportive of a Poppy-Tom relationship. I also loved to see how Aunt Rachel kept coming through for Poppy - the moment between her and Susan was definitely one of my favorites. Henry and Poppy's uncle really let me down in this book. Her uncle was so judgmental and hypocritical (as Poppy points out to him). I can understand as a member of the clergy why he may have complicated feelings about Poppy - he obviously loves her but at the same time can't get past who her parents are - but his support of Mr. Terrell even with all the shady stuff he had been doing just had me rolling my eyes. As for Henry, boy did he drop Poppy as soon as things got tough. When he accused Poppy of accusing Miss Parkinson of being a thief because she was jealous I wanted to smack him. I mean, come on, this is Poppy we are talking about, how could he think that of her? And to accuse of her being jealous when he couldn't stand to see her interacting with any male was downright hypocritical. Even after he had cut off ties with her he was still jealous when he saw her with another man. He comes through in the end, but I think Poppy let him off the hook a little too easily. Petunia was a complicated character in book 3 but here is just awful and unlikable. As for the mystery, it actually ended up being like 3 mysteries for the price of 1. It turned out Poppy didn't really need to do much investigating, she just needed to listen and pay attention to what was going on around her. The killer in this one was completely unhinged, but hid it pretty well through most of the book. I did not like her plan for saving Susan (I don't want to give anything away, but I'm sure you'll agree once you get to that part). I can't wait to see what comes next for Poppy.
September 1, 2025
This is an amazing novel because so much is happening; there are numerous plots and subplots. I've been rushing through these books because they are so gripping and engrossing. I stayed up late into the night to finish this one, and I am delighted that I did. It is a great ending. This is one of the best books I've read this year.
Poppy Morgan has received her inheritance from her deceased mother (she died in the last book). She has a townhouse in London, financial means, and the opportunity for a Season in London. Unfortunately, she has to drag along Mr. Terrell (a new minister studying with Vicar Greene) and the vicar. Mrs. Greene makes up the foursome. The twists and turns in this book will keep the reader mesmerized.
Perfect Poison Murder
1. The Strangled Servant (2022)
2. The Poisoned Clergyman (2022)
3. The Mistress Murders (2022)
** 4. The Deadly Debutante (2023)
5. The Betrayed Bride (2024)
Poppy Morgan has received her inheritance from her deceased mother (she died in the last book). She has a townhouse in London, financial means, and the opportunity for a Season in London. Unfortunately, she has to drag along Mr. Terrell (a new minister studying with Vicar Greene) and the vicar. Mrs. Greene makes up the foursome. The twists and turns in this book will keep the reader mesmerized.
Perfect Poison Murder
1. The Strangled Servant (2022)
2. The Poisoned Clergyman (2022)
3. The Mistress Murders (2022)
** 4. The Deadly Debutante (2023)
5. The Betrayed Bride (2024)
May 5, 2024
Poppy Morton is a very smart and intelligent young woman. Despite the circumstances of her birth, she faces life head on with courage. The only people I respect in this book is Aunt Rachel and a new family member. As for Sergeant Henry Dyngley, my respect for him went down the drain. What I think of him can't be written down in public. Murder, attempted murder, blackmail, robbery and a man desperate enough to destroy Poppy's reputation. Who can you trust? Poppy's final play reminds me of Nick Charles' revelations of who done it at the end of each THIN MAN movie.
March 27, 2025
Enjoyable
An enjoyable cast of characters in this book, some loveable, some not so loveable, and one that is just plain unlikeable. A love story with a page turning mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed.
An enjoyable cast of characters in this book, some loveable, some not so loveable, and one that is just plain unlikeable. A love story with a page turning mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed.
July 8, 2023
Review to follow
February 3, 2024
Changed my rating to a one. How many times is the asshole going to break the poor girl’s heart…this was the third time and the next book brings another former flame…I mean WTF?! Doesn’t the writer have another trope to use for conflict?! Geez.
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