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Beatrice Hyde-Clare #11
A Murderous Tryst
The past rears its gorgeous head…
Deeply distressed to discover her husband lied about his whereabouts the day before, Beatrice, Duchess of Kesgrave, emerges from a wretched night’s sleep to discover him embracing the most beautiful woman she has ever seen.
His former mistress!
It is shocking, yes, but not so very alarming, for Penelope Taylor is actually there to see Bea. Her dearest friend has been brutally slain, and as Millicent Lloyd happened to be sleeping in the courtesan’s bed at the time, Mrs. Taylor is the only suspect. The magistrate is impatient to cart her off to Newgate and refuses to acknowledge the truth that is glaringly obvious to her: She was the intended victim.
Poor Millie, murdered in her stead!
Persuaded by the evidence, Bea accepts the assignment, launching an investigation to prove the innocence of her husband’s former lover, whose fond recollections of her liaison with the duke confirm she is anything but innocent. Following the clues—and the trail of broken hearts discarded by Mrs. Taylor—Bea realizes she is looking for a villain more diabolical than any she has ever known.
And this one will not hesitate to strike again.
Deeply distressed to discover her husband lied about his whereabouts the day before, Beatrice, Duchess of Kesgrave, emerges from a wretched night’s sleep to discover him embracing the most beautiful woman she has ever seen.
His former mistress!
It is shocking, yes, but not so very alarming, for Penelope Taylor is actually there to see Bea. Her dearest friend has been brutally slain, and as Millicent Lloyd happened to be sleeping in the courtesan’s bed at the time, Mrs. Taylor is the only suspect. The magistrate is impatient to cart her off to Newgate and refuses to acknowledge the truth that is glaringly obvious to her: She was the intended victim.
Poor Millie, murdered in her stead!
Persuaded by the evidence, Bea accepts the assignment, launching an investigation to prove the innocence of her husband’s former lover, whose fond recollections of her liaison with the duke confirm she is anything but innocent. Following the clues—and the trail of broken hearts discarded by Mrs. Taylor—Bea realizes she is looking for a villain more diabolical than any she has ever known.
And this one will not hesitate to strike again.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2023
545 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Messina
54 books661 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 117 reviews
October 8, 2023
A delightful read as always! it’s full of the analytical musings of Bea, and the witty banter between her and Kesgrave. This is the eleventh Beatrice Hyde Clare Mystery (12th if you count A Boldly Daring Scheme). If you want to do yourself a favor, go back and read all of them, they’re on Kindle Unlimited. I listened to the first 10 on Audible, and the narration was excellent. Anyway..
This one opens on Bea discovering that the Duke of Kesgrave has lied about his whereabouts, and then he proceeds to get home after she goes to sleep and eschews their bedroom for his own. By this time, Bea has built up the lie into the Great Fabrication, and has devolved into her insecurities. When she wakes the next morning, he’s embracing his former LOVER, Mrs. Penelope Taylor, in their entryway, (WTH Kesgrave??)
It follows that Penny has been falsely(?) accused of a murder and is seeking Bea’s help to resolve it. Even as this woman continues to flirt with Kesgrave right in front of her, Bea is relentless in solving the case with the help of Kesgrave and their coterie of friends.
I have to admit that my heart beat a little faster when Bea put herself in perilous situations while she was with child. Having been pregnant, I know she’s not infirm, but TAKE CARE, BEA, I HAVE GOT TO SEE THAT CHERUB ONE OF THESE DAYS.
Overall, a winner from Lynn Messina. I didn’t guess the ending, and this book had everything I want from a cozy mystery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advanced copy of this book. It was my pleasure to provide a review. :)
This one opens on Bea discovering that the Duke of Kesgrave has lied about his whereabouts, and then he proceeds to get home after she goes to sleep and eschews their bedroom for his own. By this time, Bea has built up the lie into the Great Fabrication, and has devolved into her insecurities. When she wakes the next morning, he’s embracing his former LOVER, Mrs. Penelope Taylor, in their entryway, (WTH Kesgrave??)
It follows that Penny has been falsely(?) accused of a murder and is seeking Bea’s help to resolve it. Even as this woman continues to flirt with Kesgrave right in front of her, Bea is relentless in solving the case with the help of Kesgrave and their coterie of friends.
I have to admit that my heart beat a little faster when Bea put herself in perilous situations while she was with child. Having been pregnant, I know she’s not infirm, but TAKE CARE, BEA, I HAVE GOT TO SEE THAT CHERUB ONE OF THESE DAYS.
Overall, a winner from Lynn Messina. I didn’t guess the ending, and this book had everything I want from a cozy mystery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advanced copy of this book. It was my pleasure to provide a review. :)
October 18, 2023
Things aren’t as they seem!
Oh my! Bea certainly has a lot to contend with. Bea’s rattled! The Duke has been missing from their bed for a night. When a distraught Bea come downstairs the next morning she finds her beloved husband Damien clasped in the arms of a glamorous female. A female who turns out to be Kesgrave’s first mistress, Mrs. Penelope Taylor!
What?! Of course Bea’s heart sinks and she falls back on her painful memories of Aunt Vera’s responses to such a situation. Bea is both shaken and traumatised, but determined not to show it.
It seems Penny has been accused of murder. Actually Penny’s desperately trying to avoid Newgate. As a former mistress Penny does the unthinkable thing in society’s eyes. She asks for help from Bea. Bea’s response is just as shocking. She says yes. Kesgrave is as usual inscrutable.
Of course this is the beginning of a harebrained chase, complications between Bea and Amien, and an investigation of the various protectors who’ve all vying for Penny’s favors. That chase will turn out to be most dangerous and complicated.
Penny, Bea and Kesgrave! A scandalous puzzle for society, but in the end perfectly reasonable to Bea.
Once again Bea and Kesgrave rattle society.
Another enjoyable and surprising read featuring this most unusual regency couple, Beatrice Hyde-Clare, Duchess of Kesgrave and Damien, Duke of Kesgrave.
A Book Whisperer ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Oh my! Bea certainly has a lot to contend with. Bea’s rattled! The Duke has been missing from their bed for a night. When a distraught Bea come downstairs the next morning she finds her beloved husband Damien clasped in the arms of a glamorous female. A female who turns out to be Kesgrave’s first mistress, Mrs. Penelope Taylor!
What?! Of course Bea’s heart sinks and she falls back on her painful memories of Aunt Vera’s responses to such a situation. Bea is both shaken and traumatised, but determined not to show it.
It seems Penny has been accused of murder. Actually Penny’s desperately trying to avoid Newgate. As a former mistress Penny does the unthinkable thing in society’s eyes. She asks for help from Bea. Bea’s response is just as shocking. She says yes. Kesgrave is as usual inscrutable.
Of course this is the beginning of a harebrained chase, complications between Bea and Amien, and an investigation of the various protectors who’ve all vying for Penny’s favors. That chase will turn out to be most dangerous and complicated.
Penny, Bea and Kesgrave! A scandalous puzzle for society, but in the end perfectly reasonable to Bea.
Once again Bea and Kesgrave rattle society.
Another enjoyable and surprising read featuring this most unusual regency couple, Beatrice Hyde-Clare, Duchess of Kesgrave and Damien, Duke of Kesgrave.
A Book Whisperer ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
October 3, 2023
Buckle up! The roller coaster takes off immediately in this twelfth installment of the delightful Beatrice Hyde-Clare series. The sensitive part of me always feels for Bea when she's put in difficult situations and when her insecurities pop up. This time, she believes Damien has lied to her and possibly lost interest in her. On top of that, his first mistress shows up asking for help, as her friend has been murdered. In classic Bea fashion, she's less bothered by the mistress' presence than by the lie, which she calls The Great Fabrication. Hilarity and a fast-paced investigation ensues.
I love how tight the timeline of these books is. This story is happening a few days after the last Bea book and starts on the same day that Damien and his sister Verity meet in Verity's second book. You don't need to have read the other books to appreciate the mystery, but it sure is more fun if you have because each story feels like a continuation of the adventure.
I love how tight the timeline of these books is. This story is happening a few days after the last Bea book and starts on the same day that Damien and his sister Verity meet in Verity's second book. You don't need to have read the other books to appreciate the mystery, but it sure is more fun if you have because each story feels like a continuation of the adventure.
October 31, 2023
This series is one of my favourite finds for 2023! I loved this latest instalment of Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries. Classic Lynn Messina (I say classic although I've only had the pleasure of discovering her work this year), it's full of twists and turns and kept me guessing with a whole lot of humour that had me laughing out loud in the middle of the night when I could not put this book down. I love how Lynn writes, I love the relationship between Bea and Damien (although I was pretty annoyed with him in the first couple of chapters), I love the red herrings, and I love the character engagement - I just love this series. It's not what I would typically read but once I started A Brazen Curiosity, I couldn't stop!
If you enjoy humorous books with a dash of romance and mystery, I can't recommend this series enough.
I received this book as an ARC from The Book Whisperer for an honest review.
If you enjoy humorous books with a dash of romance and mystery, I can't recommend this series enough.
I received this book as an ARC from The Book Whisperer for an honest review.
October 2, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced reading copy! All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
The former Beatrice Hyde-Clare, now Duchess of Kesgrave, is worried sick and perturbed when she learns her husband lied to her about his whereabouts and didn't come home to her bed. The next morning, when she learns her beloved husband has returned home, she rushes to his side to confront him, only to discover the duke hugging another woman! Not just any woman, but the ravishing courtesan, Mrs. Penelope Taylor, his former mistress! Bea knows all about this woman, yes she does, and would dearly love to send this woman away so Bea can have it out with her husband. But wait! Bea is not your average duchess and Penelope needs Bea's help! Penelope's greatest frenemy, a fellow courtesan, has been stabbed to death with Penelope's hat pin and Penelope's dearest friend and neighbor, Sir John Piddlehinton, a retired magistrate, has accused Penelope of the crime! Penelope asserts she is innocent of murder and believes she was the intended victim. How can she prove her innocence when not even her friend believes her? Enter the Lady Runner, Beatrice, Duchess of Kesgrave! Will Bea REALLY want to prove this woman's innocence? Well, yes, to see justice done. This case proves to be quite confounding! With very few clues to go on and the suspect list dwindling, Penny's chances of being hanged for a crime she claims she didn't commit are becoming greater and greater. Can Bea save the day?
EEEEE!!! SO excited to be back investigating with Bea! As usual this story is funny and sweet at the same time. The investigation kept me guessing and I never once considered the murderer to be THAT person! I missed the clues Bea eventually remembered. Very clever! It was fabulously fun to have Kesgrave's former mistress along for the ride. It added some extra humor to the story and the planning and catch the killer scenes are so farcical they belong to a screwball comedy film of the Great Depression. As always, the dialogue shines brightly, far more than the narration. Some of the language sounds a little too modern and I would prefer it if Bea kept using euphemisms. "The cherub" is cute but then she should also use increasing or the more vulgar breeding and not pregnant.
This one takes place just as A Lark's Flight is ending. Be sure you read Verity's story first because there are spoilers. It was great to read Damien's reaction to learning about Verity and his feelings about the matter. He hasn't had time to consider why he likes her and why he was attracted to Bea in the first place. I do believe he is attracted to intelligent, tenacious women because they embody the best qualities his mother had (and used for her own selfish purposes). While the former Duchess was a horrible person, Verity has used her intellectual prowess for good, just as Bea has. I hope the two women team up to investigate a murder together soon!
I appreciate the complex layers to the story, incorporating the characters' back stories and ruminating on the plight of women in the early 19th-century. While Bea's mother had enough social status to write about women's rights, not all women enjoy that privilege or are treated like human beings. At first glance, being a courtesan sounds more fun and glam than being a wife ("The purpose of a wife is for procreation.") Then, once the story gets going and Bea and Kesgrave dig deeper, it shows that all that glitters is not gold. The life of a courtesan like Penny is not a good one. Even though she seems to have wealth and status, she is little more than a commodity to be bought and sold. Her word is not to be believed and the men she once entertained would turn their backs on her if they thought she was a murderer. (murderess?) Because this is fiction, that doesn't quite happen, but the darker undercurrents are there in the story if you read the narration carefully.
As always, the Duke and Duchess are the cutest couple! They're so sweet. At first I was a bit worried because there was trouble in paradise but because Damien knows Bea so well, he knows what she's thinking and knows how to calm down her racing mind. Like mature married couples should, they talk about their problems and work it out. They're so cute together! He worries about her safety and doesn't LIKE her investigating. He WANTS to forbid her but knows he shouldn't and can't so he won't. He tags along to help keep her safe but I think the self-defense lessons are coming along nicely. He truly loves Bea so much and now his own past is coming back to haunt him and he's in HIS head about it. He tries to protect Bea even though he knows she's strong and tough, she's still a little insecure. Bea should know and would know if she had more self-esteem, that he would NEVER NEVER do anything to hurt her. The past is in the past where it belongs.
Poor Bea! She's still reeling from the visit to the orphanage and is still psychologically damaged from the emotional abuse she suffered from her relatives. She's only recently married and can't see herself the way her husband sees her just yet. Her past as an insignificant nobody comes back to haunt her and she's in her head about it, as always. She's trying to move past it and when she's investigating, she exudes confidence and doesn't take no for an answer. That is the real Bea. I hope she can move on from her past trauma and come to value herself for who she is now. Her family's attempts to make it up to her are too funny, especially Flora. Flora's silly at times but she does love Bea like a sister and truly wants to be useful herself. While Flora was treated better than Bea, she was still subjected to her mother's teachings! Aunt Vera really needs to learn to be confident and strong herself. Bea's mother would be so proud of how far Bea - and Flora- have come in terms of being equal partners to men who love them for their intelligence.
Penelope is hilarious. On the surface anyway. She's over-the-top but not vulgar, showy and supremely confident. Everyone claims she's trying to get the duke back but is she really? Her rivalry with Millie sounds more like they were frenemies than enemies. I think Penelope would have found a way to bump off the other woman discreetly or accidentally kill her frenemy in the heat of the moment. This crime was planned. Both women were greedy and tried to sleep their way to the top. Penny, being more voluptuous and having a better start to her career, has money. She's a wealthy courtesan who can choose her next "protector." She's not showy in a vulgar way but she likes to show off. It helps her image and keeps her on the tip of every man's brain. She has to stand out in a crowded field. was jealous and wanted to have what Penny had. Her life is sad and pathetic. She started in a brothel so it's no wonder she wants Penny's life. I don't blame her. Is it true what they say- imitation is the sincerest form of flattery? I'm not sure. It sounds very annoying for Penny to constantly have someone else copying her and trying to steal her lovers. However, in this instance, I believe is right to be upset. Penny deliberately set out to get Waltham once he came into the inheritance. She had rejected him previously so he went to instead. That was a low blow, Penny. Really.
Millie came over to Penny's early one morning, drunk on brandy and making a scene. Being drunk, especially that early, was unusual for Millie. It was mentioned several times that Millie's breath smelled of brandy and Pomfret Cakes (a licorice lozenge used both as a candy and cough drop). I'm wondering if someone poisoned Millie's candy and it made her act drunk or more unhinged than she would normally be drunk? It has to be a clue.
While Penny doesn't seem too broken up about Millie's death, she's brash and confident enough to believe it will work out in her favor. There's a discussion about how Penny has had to hide her emotions and compartmentalize because of her chosen profession and because of societal expectations. She's maybe a little too confident. She firmly believes she was the intended victim and not Millie. Someone killed Millie by mistake. Several ex-lovers and would-be lovers have reason to want to get rid of Penny. Which one killed Millie?
The Marquess of Waltham is new to his title and Society. He was the cause of Millie's disturbing the peace early in the morning. He's a cad and not too bright either. He seems genuinely shocked and broken up by the murder even if he did use Millie badly. Waltham really, really wants to be with Penny and settled for Millie as second best. Millie should have kicked him to the curb instead of taking him to her bed. And really, he behaved badly and if he ended up dead, I'd suspect Millie did it.
Baron Debenham keeps sending Penny threatening letters because she jilted him. He's the possessive, jealous type and it's no wonder she ditched him. Julian Barlow hates Penny because he believes she corrupted his brother, causing his brother to be killed in a duel. The dude was 22, old enough to be responsible for his own behavior and make his own choices. I don't trust Barlow at all. He's a sexist pig and teaming up with ultra Conservative MP, Lord Liverpool to enact a law to punish "scheming" women, like Penny, for "corrupting" "helpless" youth. (Sure let's blame the woman why don't we.) Debenham is truly vindictive and he wants to see Penny publicly humiliated, held up as an example of all that is corrupt and evil in the world and expose her "crimes" in the papers. Yikes! I guess that leaves him off the list of suspects? Or maybe he did target Millie as a clone of Penny. Maybe he thought it was easier to get rid of Millie because she wasn't well known enough to bother with a public trial? This guy is an arrogant arse and I hope he is the murderer!
The Earl of Audenshaw owes Penny money, or so she says. He gave her a bad parting gift and she is planning to get a hit out on him if he doesn't cough up the jewels. Yikes! That makes Audenshaw a prime suspect for murderer. The investigation at his house is too funny. He's another one who is sexist yet married to a formidable, intelligent woman. I suspect LADY Audenshaw was the murderer. After all, a woman could plan a discreet murder and would be familiar with hat pins and how to use them to protect herself.
Dudley St. Ives, another former lover, is young, only 23. He's whiny and throws a tantrum when he doesn't get his own way. Not even his father can control him but not for lack of trying. This kid behaved badly towards his family and towards Penny but he still seems to want her back. Another callow youth is Nettleby, a boy of 20, He is Penny's most stalwart defender. He wants to be with her so badly, he believes she's innocent. He's sweet but kind of annoying. Nettleby is not wise in the ways of the world yet, his frontal lobe hasn't developed to give him common sense and he's a typical young man lusting after the most famous courtesan. He believes he has a chance with Penny, as long as he courts her. Nettleby is a fool and oh so funny. There's no way he's the killer. He couldn't figure it out even if he tried. I don't even know if he would know what to do if he did have a woman like Penny! He's trying desperately hard to be a man though and escape his uncle's strict behavior.
Sylvester Nettleby is the nephew of Lord Hartlepool, one of Kesgrave's oldest friends. I don't see how they can be friends. Hartlepool is sexist, misogynistic and snobby - the exact opposite of Kesgrave. A ha! I think Kesgrave is wrong, totally wrong, to tread lightly in dealing with his friend's nephew. I think his friend is the killer! How far would Lord Hartlepool go to protect his family name and reputation? He's supposed to be looking out for his cawker of a nephew. How much "looking out" is necessary? How much is too much? I believe, given his opinions about women, he would totally murder a courtesan without a second thought and feel no remorse. He would probably say something like "taking out the trash" (or "binning the rubbish")!
The dark horse candidate is Mrs. Marshall, Penny's neighbor, who is always complaining about Penny bringing down the character of the neighborhood. Mrs. Marshall is fussy about appearances and about noise. She sounds like a stuffy prude to me and probably did slip in unnoticed and murdered Millie for making a scene and framed Penny, thus "killing two ladybirds with one stone." Yuck.
I can't get enough of this series and I am sure I need to read this again, along with all the others and Verity's stories. Names and fragments of information kept coming back to me but there was so much going on and so many books, I forget all the details. Read this if you like swoony Regency romances, funny romances and cozy mysteries.
Penny's relationship with Sir John Piddlehinton is hilarious. He's the only man who doesn't want to bed her. She's comfortable enough with him to entrust him with her finances and they exchange a lot of witty banter. When push comes to shove, however, he's not a loyal friend. He's not very bright or imaginative. Sir John acts officious and pompous, like he's just humoring Penny but believes she is responsible for the murder of her frenemy. That's low. He's sexist and thinks all women are incapable of being rational and are ruled by our emotions. He thinks of Penny as nothing more than a prostitute, a thing, not worthy of consideration due to a fellow human being. That's not right. I was beginning to think HE was the murderer, especially at the end.
The former Beatrice Hyde-Clare, now Duchess of Kesgrave, is worried sick and perturbed when she learns her husband lied to her about his whereabouts and didn't come home to her bed. The next morning, when she learns her beloved husband has returned home, she rushes to his side to confront him, only to discover the duke hugging another woman! Not just any woman, but the ravishing courtesan, Mrs. Penelope Taylor, his former mistress! Bea knows all about this woman, yes she does, and would dearly love to send this woman away so Bea can have it out with her husband. But wait! Bea is not your average duchess and Penelope needs Bea's help! Penelope's greatest frenemy, a fellow courtesan, has been stabbed to death with Penelope's hat pin and Penelope's dearest friend and neighbor, Sir John Piddlehinton, a retired magistrate, has accused Penelope of the crime! Penelope asserts she is innocent of murder and believes she was the intended victim. How can she prove her innocence when not even her friend believes her? Enter the Lady Runner, Beatrice, Duchess of Kesgrave! Will Bea REALLY want to prove this woman's innocence? Well, yes, to see justice done. This case proves to be quite confounding! With very few clues to go on and the suspect list dwindling, Penny's chances of being hanged for a crime she claims she didn't commit are becoming greater and greater. Can Bea save the day?
EEEEE!!! SO excited to be back investigating with Bea! As usual this story is funny and sweet at the same time. The investigation kept me guessing and I never once considered the murderer to be THAT person! I missed the clues Bea eventually remembered. Very clever! It was fabulously fun to have Kesgrave's former mistress along for the ride. It added some extra humor to the story and the planning and catch the killer scenes are so farcical they belong to a screwball comedy film of the Great Depression. As always, the dialogue shines brightly, far more than the narration. Some of the language sounds a little too modern and I would prefer it if Bea kept using euphemisms. "The cherub" is cute but then she should also use increasing or the more vulgar breeding and not pregnant.
This one takes place just as A Lark's Flight is ending. Be sure you read Verity's story first because there are spoilers. It was great to read Damien's reaction to learning about Verity and his feelings about the matter. He hasn't had time to consider why he likes her and why he was attracted to Bea in the first place. I do believe he is attracted to intelligent, tenacious women because they embody the best qualities his mother had (and used for her own selfish purposes). While the former Duchess was a horrible person, Verity has used her intellectual prowess for good, just as Bea has. I hope the two women team up to investigate a murder together soon!
I appreciate the complex layers to the story, incorporating the characters' back stories and ruminating on the plight of women in the early 19th-century. While Bea's mother had enough social status to write about women's rights, not all women enjoy that privilege or are treated like human beings. At first glance, being a courtesan sounds more fun and glam than being a wife ("The purpose of a wife is for procreation.") Then, once the story gets going and Bea and Kesgrave dig deeper, it shows that all that glitters is not gold. The life of a courtesan like Penny is not a good one. Even though she seems to have wealth and status, she is little more than a commodity to be bought and sold. Her word is not to be believed and the men she once entertained would turn their backs on her if they thought she was a murderer. (murderess?) Because this is fiction, that doesn't quite happen, but the darker undercurrents are there in the story if you read the narration carefully.
As always, the Duke and Duchess are the cutest couple! They're so sweet. At first I was a bit worried because there was trouble in paradise but because Damien knows Bea so well, he knows what she's thinking and knows how to calm down her racing mind. Like mature married couples should, they talk about their problems and work it out. They're so cute together! He worries about her safety and doesn't LIKE her investigating. He WANTS to forbid her but knows he shouldn't and can't so he won't. He tags along to help keep her safe but I think the self-defense lessons are coming along nicely. He truly loves Bea so much and now his own past is coming back to haunt him and he's in HIS head about it. He tries to protect Bea even though he knows she's strong and tough, she's still a little insecure. Bea should know and would know if she had more self-esteem, that he would NEVER NEVER do anything to hurt her. The past is in the past where it belongs.
Poor Bea! She's still reeling from the visit to the orphanage and is still psychologically damaged from the emotional abuse she suffered from her relatives. She's only recently married and can't see herself the way her husband sees her just yet. Her past as an insignificant nobody comes back to haunt her and she's in her head about it, as always. She's trying to move past it and when she's investigating, she exudes confidence and doesn't take no for an answer. That is the real Bea. I hope she can move on from her past trauma and come to value herself for who she is now. Her family's attempts to make it up to her are too funny, especially Flora. Flora's silly at times but she does love Bea like a sister and truly wants to be useful herself. While Flora was treated better than Bea, she was still subjected to her mother's teachings! Aunt Vera really needs to learn to be confident and strong herself. Bea's mother would be so proud of how far Bea - and Flora- have come in terms of being equal partners to men who love them for their intelligence.
Penelope is hilarious. On the surface anyway. She's over-the-top but not vulgar, showy and supremely confident. Everyone claims she's trying to get the duke back but is she really? Her rivalry with Millie sounds more like they were frenemies than enemies. I think Penelope would have found a way to bump off the other woman discreetly or accidentally kill her frenemy in the heat of the moment. This crime was planned. Both women were greedy and tried to sleep their way to the top. Penny, being more voluptuous and having a better start to her career, has money. She's a wealthy courtesan who can choose her next "protector." She's not showy in a vulgar way but she likes to show off. It helps her image and keeps her on the tip of every man's brain. She has to stand out in a crowded field. was jealous and wanted to have what Penny had. Her life is sad and pathetic. She started in a brothel so it's no wonder she wants Penny's life. I don't blame her. Is it true what they say- imitation is the sincerest form of flattery? I'm not sure. It sounds very annoying for Penny to constantly have someone else copying her and trying to steal her lovers. However, in this instance, I believe is right to be upset. Penny deliberately set out to get Waltham once he came into the inheritance. She had rejected him previously so he went to instead. That was a low blow, Penny. Really.
Millie came over to Penny's early one morning, drunk on brandy and making a scene. Being drunk, especially that early, was unusual for Millie. It was mentioned several times that Millie's breath smelled of brandy and Pomfret Cakes (a licorice lozenge used both as a candy and cough drop). I'm wondering if someone poisoned Millie's candy and it made her act drunk or more unhinged than she would normally be drunk? It has to be a clue.
While Penny doesn't seem too broken up about Millie's death, she's brash and confident enough to believe it will work out in her favor. There's a discussion about how Penny has had to hide her emotions and compartmentalize because of her chosen profession and because of societal expectations. She's maybe a little too confident. She firmly believes she was the intended victim and not Millie. Someone killed Millie by mistake. Several ex-lovers and would-be lovers have reason to want to get rid of Penny. Which one killed Millie?
The Marquess of Waltham is new to his title and Society. He was the cause of Millie's disturbing the peace early in the morning. He's a cad and not too bright either. He seems genuinely shocked and broken up by the murder even if he did use Millie badly. Waltham really, really wants to be with Penny and settled for Millie as second best. Millie should have kicked him to the curb instead of taking him to her bed. And really, he behaved badly and if he ended up dead, I'd suspect Millie did it.
Baron Debenham keeps sending Penny threatening letters because she jilted him. He's the possessive, jealous type and it's no wonder she ditched him. Julian Barlow hates Penny because he believes she corrupted his brother, causing his brother to be killed in a duel. The dude was 22, old enough to be responsible for his own behavior and make his own choices. I don't trust Barlow at all. He's a sexist pig and teaming up with ultra Conservative MP, Lord Liverpool to enact a law to punish "scheming" women, like Penny, for "corrupting" "helpless" youth. (Sure let's blame the woman why don't we.) Debenham is truly vindictive and he wants to see Penny publicly humiliated, held up as an example of all that is corrupt and evil in the world and expose her "crimes" in the papers. Yikes! I guess that leaves him off the list of suspects? Or maybe he did target Millie as a clone of Penny. Maybe he thought it was easier to get rid of Millie because she wasn't well known enough to bother with a public trial? This guy is an arrogant arse and I hope he is the murderer!
The Earl of Audenshaw owes Penny money, or so she says. He gave her a bad parting gift and she is planning to get a hit out on him if he doesn't cough up the jewels. Yikes! That makes Audenshaw a prime suspect for murderer. The investigation at his house is too funny. He's another one who is sexist yet married to a formidable, intelligent woman. I suspect LADY Audenshaw was the murderer. After all, a woman could plan a discreet murder and would be familiar with hat pins and how to use them to protect herself.
Dudley St. Ives, another former lover, is young, only 23. He's whiny and throws a tantrum when he doesn't get his own way. Not even his father can control him but not for lack of trying. This kid behaved badly towards his family and towards Penny but he still seems to want her back. Another callow youth is Nettleby, a boy of 20, He is Penny's most stalwart defender. He wants to be with her so badly, he believes she's innocent. He's sweet but kind of annoying. Nettleby is not wise in the ways of the world yet, his frontal lobe hasn't developed to give him common sense and he's a typical young man lusting after the most famous courtesan. He believes he has a chance with Penny, as long as he courts her. Nettleby is a fool and oh so funny. There's no way he's the killer. He couldn't figure it out even if he tried. I don't even know if he would know what to do if he did have a woman like Penny! He's trying desperately hard to be a man though and escape his uncle's strict behavior.
Sylvester Nettleby is the nephew of Lord Hartlepool, one of Kesgrave's oldest friends. I don't see how they can be friends. Hartlepool is sexist, misogynistic and snobby - the exact opposite of Kesgrave. A ha! I think Kesgrave is wrong, totally wrong, to tread lightly in dealing with his friend's nephew. I think his friend is the killer! How far would Lord Hartlepool go to protect his family name and reputation? He's supposed to be looking out for his cawker of a nephew. How much "looking out" is necessary? How much is too much? I believe, given his opinions about women, he would totally murder a courtesan without a second thought and feel no remorse. He would probably say something like "taking out the trash" (or "binning the rubbish")!
The dark horse candidate is Mrs. Marshall, Penny's neighbor, who is always complaining about Penny bringing down the character of the neighborhood. Mrs. Marshall is fussy about appearances and about noise. She sounds like a stuffy prude to me and probably did slip in unnoticed and murdered Millie for making a scene and framed Penny, thus "killing two ladybirds with one stone." Yuck.
I can't get enough of this series and I am sure I need to read this again, along with all the others and Verity's stories. Names and fragments of information kept coming back to me but there was so much going on and so many books, I forget all the details. Read this if you like swoony Regency romances, funny romances and cozy mysteries.
Penny's relationship with Sir John Piddlehinton is hilarious. He's the only man who doesn't want to bed her. She's comfortable enough with him to entrust him with her finances and they exchange a lot of witty banter. When push comes to shove, however, he's not a loyal friend. He's not very bright or imaginative. Sir John acts officious and pompous, like he's just humoring Penny but believes she is responsible for the murder of her frenemy. That's low. He's sexist and thinks all women are incapable of being rational and are ruled by our emotions. He thinks of Penny as nothing more than a prostitute, a thing, not worthy of consideration due to a fellow human being. That's not right. I was beginning to think HE was the murderer, especially at the end.
December 10, 2023
3.5
Let me start by saying this is overall an enjoyable read. The heroine Beatrice is quite lovely and feisty, exactly the kind of female protagonist I love. The dialogues are funny, especially the witty banter between Bea and her husband Kesgrave, it always earns a small chuckle from me. The curtain scene when they set a trap to catch the killer is like watching a British comedy and I love it.
The plot is actually pretty decent for a cozy mystery. (I usually have low standards for this genre, as long as they are not too stupid and blatantly obvious it’s fine by me.) Not so much of a well-crafted scheme from the murderer so it’s no Agatha Christie sort of whodunnit, but we have a resourceful, tactical detective that more or less makes up for that, and most importantly, she knows what she’s doing.
There isn’t much romance for the protagonists (a plus for me in mysteries). I’ve never read the previous books in this series, so I have zero knowledge of the characters. It is a bit of a red flag for me at first to see the duke Kesgrave holding his former mistress in his arms in his own house (dude wth). But as the story progresses, Bea and Kesgrave make a lovely couple. They understand each other, he doesn’t try to stop Bea from doing her detective work, and there is no miscommunication troupe because they talk about their problems like a mature couple should! It also occasionally makes satirical social commentaries on women’s status and plight in the Regency era mainly through Bea’s inner observation and Penny’s complaints, which is also quite interesting to see this subject through two women’s eyes who have very different social statuses.
But there are quite a few things I do not enjoy. One, the first half of the book is delightful, with all the interesting characters and amusing conversations, but it becomes a bit dragged out in my opinion in the second half. It might be because it introduced some characters and stories from previous books that I never read, so it gets a wee bit confusing and boring to me. But also some of the suspects honestly are just the same type and I don’t see the necessity of creating multiple just to make it look like a lot of people are trying to kill the victim. I skimmed out most of it because I lost my patience. Two, I have no problem whatsoever against courtesans, but I really, really do not like Penelope Taylor as a character for one bit. She was fun at first but then it got a bit too self-righteous for my taste.
The third one is mostly a me-problem. Even though most reviews said it’s fine to just read this as a standalone, it sometimes still confuses me when it mentions something from the previous works like I said, and it mentions quite a lot. It does not help my reading experience. And it also does not make me scream “omg I wanna read more of this asap”, so.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this eARC.
Let me start by saying this is overall an enjoyable read. The heroine Beatrice is quite lovely and feisty, exactly the kind of female protagonist I love. The dialogues are funny, especially the witty banter between Bea and her husband Kesgrave, it always earns a small chuckle from me. The curtain scene when they set a trap to catch the killer is like watching a British comedy and I love it.
The plot is actually pretty decent for a cozy mystery. (I usually have low standards for this genre, as long as they are not too stupid and blatantly obvious it’s fine by me.) Not so much of a well-crafted scheme from the murderer so it’s no Agatha Christie sort of whodunnit, but we have a resourceful, tactical detective that more or less makes up for that, and most importantly, she knows what she’s doing.
There isn’t much romance for the protagonists (a plus for me in mysteries). I’ve never read the previous books in this series, so I have zero knowledge of the characters. It is a bit of a red flag for me at first to see the duke Kesgrave holding his former mistress in his arms in his own house (dude wth). But as the story progresses, Bea and Kesgrave make a lovely couple. They understand each other, he doesn’t try to stop Bea from doing her detective work, and there is no miscommunication troupe because they talk about their problems like a mature couple should! It also occasionally makes satirical social commentaries on women’s status and plight in the Regency era mainly through Bea’s inner observation and Penny’s complaints, which is also quite interesting to see this subject through two women’s eyes who have very different social statuses.
But there are quite a few things I do not enjoy. One, the first half of the book is delightful, with all the interesting characters and amusing conversations, but it becomes a bit dragged out in my opinion in the second half. It might be because it introduced some characters and stories from previous books that I never read, so it gets a wee bit confusing and boring to me. But also some of the suspects honestly are just the same type and I don’t see the necessity of creating multiple just to make it look like a lot of people are trying to kill the victim. I skimmed out most of it because I lost my patience. Two, I have no problem whatsoever against courtesans, but I really, really do not like Penelope Taylor as a character for one bit. She was fun at first but then it got a bit too self-righteous for my taste.
The third one is mostly a me-problem. Even though most reviews said it’s fine to just read this as a standalone, it sometimes still confuses me when it mentions something from the previous works like I said, and it mentions quite a lot. It does not help my reading experience. And it also does not make me scream “omg I wanna read more of this asap”, so.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this eARC.
November 10, 2023
Another great entry into the series. Just wish it had been longer. This one felt a little short. Keep them coming.
October 28, 2023
When I first read the description for this book, I was like, please don't ruin Kesgrave for me. No need to worry on that front. Damien is gold. My favorite parts are when Bea and Kesgrave discuss serious topics like Verity's abandonment, and Damien's thoughts on that, the keeping of mistresses. I love these insights into their insecurities and how they help each other deal with them by candid conversations that are never demeaning. I love these two. I love how their relationship is maturing as well and how having a relationship did not magically fix them. That's reality baby. I did not however love Penny. Honestly, that was my main drawback here, sorry, but I'm not going to care about Kesgrave's paramour of long ago who has been passed from man to man since. I didn't have an ounce of sympathy for most of the characters here. I get the exaggerated portrayal of courtesans and their cohorts, but none of them were more than caricatures, which to me diminished the motivation to care for the resolution to the murder. But to all that, I have one word. Nuneaton! I need the Nuneaton book, like yesterday. I do love this series, even if this was not my favorite. I received an ARC from the publisher and Netgalley for an honest review.
November 3, 2023
Deeply distressed to discover her husband lied about his whereabouts the day before, Beatrice, Duchess of Kesgrave, emerges from a wretched night’s sleep to discover him embracing the most beautiful woman she has ever seen. His former mistress! It is shocking, yes, but not so very alarming, for Penelope Taylor is actually there to see Bea. Her dearest friend has been brutally slain, and as Millicent Lloyd happened to be sleeping in the courtesan’s bed at the time, Mrs Taylor is the only suspect. The magistrate is impatient to cart her off to Newgate and refuses to acknowledge the truth that is glaringly obvious to her: She was the intended victim. Persuaded by the evidence, Bea accepts the assignment, launching an investigation to prove the innocence of her husband’s former lover.
I don’t usually delve into a book mid series let only the twelfth but the blurb sounded so good. I must admit I’m glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed this murder mystery, the characters had depth & were well portrayed, the book flowed well & never lagged. I also didn’t feel lost but the problem now is I want to go back to the beginning & read the series so far
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I don’t usually delve into a book mid series let only the twelfth but the blurb sounded so good. I must admit I’m glad I did as I thoroughly enjoyed this murder mystery, the characters had depth & were well portrayed, the book flowed well & never lagged. I also didn’t feel lost but the problem now is I want to go back to the beginning & read the series so far
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 9, 2023
The latest book in one of my favorite series of all time, from one of my three favorite non-JAFF authors, has just been made available. Yes! I have chuckled, giggled, snickered, and guffawed my way through every book in this series. The author's intelligence and wit colors every page, and shines in the clever dialogue, especially between Kesgrave and Bea. Their chemistry is intense and unique.
Secondary characters, like Lord Nuneaton, Lady Abercrombie, the duke's grandmother, even Marlow (Kesgrave's butler) are entertaining in their own ways. The series really needs to be read sequentially, because events take place over a relatively short time, and names from previous books pop up all the time.
In this latest one, Bea investigates the murder of her husband's former mistress's doppelganger. Although the author always leaves a trail of crumbs as clues along the way in all her books, I'm rarely able to guess the killer.
How I happened to choose the first book in the series is a mystery, because mysteries do not appeal to me. Whatever cosmic impetus was involved in that decision has my eternal gratitude. Highly recommended.
Secondary characters, like Lord Nuneaton, Lady Abercrombie, the duke's grandmother, even Marlow (Kesgrave's butler) are entertaining in their own ways. The series really needs to be read sequentially, because events take place over a relatively short time, and names from previous books pop up all the time.
In this latest one, Bea investigates the murder of her husband's former mistress's doppelganger. Although the author always leaves a trail of crumbs as clues along the way in all her books, I'm rarely able to guess the killer.
How I happened to choose the first book in the series is a mystery, because mysteries do not appeal to me. Whatever cosmic impetus was involved in that decision has my eternal gratitude. Highly recommended.
November 11, 2023
I had my doubts about how Messina would pull off the introduction of Kesgrave’s former mistress….another home run. I really need Bea and Verity to meet for an adventure together. I also desperately need Bea to get her Hessians. And I think Nuneaton needs a love interest. Please keep these coming! With plots taking place over just a few days, it could be months and three more installments before the Cherub is even born. Maybe it is time for Bea to visit the out-of-town estate? Kesgrave’s pedantry and Bea’s mockery would have a whole fruitful countryside in which to flourish.
Kind of addicted.
Kind of addicted.
November 7, 2023
This story was a nice break from the traditional historical romance I read. It is a mystery which requires Beatrice, the Duchess of Kesgrave, to solve who murdered a little known courtesan and was attempting to frame her rival a well known courtesan who had at one time been her husband, the Duke of Kesgrave's mistress. Mrs. Penny Taylor, the accused murderer, approached Bea to ask her to investigate who had actually committed the murder as she thought she was the intended victim of the crime because of where it had been committed. I won't give away the story- everyone should read it because its a short but satisfying story if you enjoy mysteries with a female lead. This isn't my first book from this author but I am looking forward to more works from Lynn Messina.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review
December 11, 2023
I've loved this series for years. They are so well-written, the characters are brilliant and the mysteries are solid.
If you want to dive into a new cozy mystery series with an excellent heroine and a subtly told romance, this is the series for you.
If you want to dive into a new cozy mystery series with an excellent heroine and a subtly told romance, this is the series for you.
March 6, 2024
Another enjoyable book in the series.
March 10, 2024
It was so nice revisiting Bea and her Duke! Great book!
January 30, 2026
fascinating dimensions
This book shows yet again just how different Kesgrave is… and I find it all fascinating. As much as how Bea reaches her deductions. Also, it’s cool that people are now asking her to solve cases and catering to her presence.
This book shows yet again just how different Kesgrave is… and I find it all fascinating. As much as how Bea reaches her deductions. Also, it’s cool that people are now asking her to solve cases and catering to her presence.
November 4, 2023
The 3 M’s…Mystery, Murder and Mistress.
When I first started reading Beatrice Hyde-Clare mysteries, I was not a reader of the historical mystery genre. Since the first book, I have fallen in love with the world seen through the eyes of Bea, Damien and the eccentric mix of characters. I wonder if any of them are based on Miss Messina’s family? The latest book, A Murderous Tryst starts out in true Bea fashion, which humor, additional eccentric characters, murder, and rout cakes. I like how the last Verity Lark book is worked into the story along with Bea and Damien’s quirky family and friends. I love the conversations between Bea and Damien as they continue to grow into their marriage and as Bea must overcome some of her insecurities of being a Duchess. A must read!
Rena F.
When I first started reading Beatrice Hyde-Clare mysteries, I was not a reader of the historical mystery genre. Since the first book, I have fallen in love with the world seen through the eyes of Bea, Damien and the eccentric mix of characters. I wonder if any of them are based on Miss Messina’s family? The latest book, A Murderous Tryst starts out in true Bea fashion, which humor, additional eccentric characters, murder, and rout cakes. I like how the last Verity Lark book is worked into the story along with Bea and Damien’s quirky family and friends. I love the conversations between Bea and Damien as they continue to grow into their marriage and as Bea must overcome some of her insecurities of being a Duchess. A must read!
Rena F.
November 6, 2023
Courtesy of The Book Whisperer and Netgalley, I received the ARC of A Murderous Tryst by Lynn Messina. This Regency era cozy mystery is the newest historical novel in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare series, and my first to read, easily understood as a standalone story. The descriptions and dialogue are extremely witty, humorous, scandalous,and clever! The characters are captivating, the twists interesting! This author is a true wordsmith! Highly recommend!
November 6, 2023
Courtesy of The Book Whisperer and Netgalley, I received the ARC of A Murderous Tryst by Lynn Messina. This Regency era cozy mystery is the newest historical novel in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare series, and my first to read, easily understood as a standalone story. The descriptions and dialogue are extremely witty, humorous, scandalous,and clever! The characters are captivating, the twists interesting! This author is a true wordsmith! Highly recommend!
October 28, 2023
Bea and Kesgrave are always a good read.
Although this is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone and is a great read as are the others in this series. In it we see Bea struggling with her self-doubts, still not able to see herself as enough for her husband, Kesgrave. When she finds that Kesgrave has lied to her and then catches him, in their entryway, embracing his old mistress, all her doubts are magnified. But the mistress, Penny, is there for a reason. There has been a murder and Penny is the prime suspect. She has come to request Bea’s help. Placed in this awkward situation, Bea feels she has no alternative but accept since murders are hard to come by and she has a reputation of solving the most entangled murders. Now she must deal with her own fears while being in very close proximity to someone she really never wanted to meet. Mix in some extremely awkward moments, Kesgrave’s own surprises, an unwilling magistrate, a strong headed but naïve young man, and some serious double dealing and you have a fun read with surprises around every turn. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy. This is my review and all thoughts are my own.
Although this is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone and is a great read as are the others in this series. In it we see Bea struggling with her self-doubts, still not able to see herself as enough for her husband, Kesgrave. When she finds that Kesgrave has lied to her and then catches him, in their entryway, embracing his old mistress, all her doubts are magnified. But the mistress, Penny, is there for a reason. There has been a murder and Penny is the prime suspect. She has come to request Bea’s help. Placed in this awkward situation, Bea feels she has no alternative but accept since murders are hard to come by and she has a reputation of solving the most entangled murders. Now she must deal with her own fears while being in very close proximity to someone she really never wanted to meet. Mix in some extremely awkward moments, Kesgrave’s own surprises, an unwilling magistrate, a strong headed but naïve young man, and some serious double dealing and you have a fun read with surprises around every turn. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy. This is my review and all thoughts are my own.
November 6, 2023
Dramatically good
The relationship between their graces, is one again hilarious, dramatic, and exactly what everyone should strive for, communication, support, and passion. Add in the mystery, the quirky and flamboyant side characters, plus the cross overs to the verity lark add to the enjoyment.
The relationship between their graces, is one again hilarious, dramatic, and exactly what everyone should strive for, communication, support, and passion. Add in the mystery, the quirky and flamboyant side characters, plus the cross overs to the verity lark add to the enjoyment.
November 8, 2023
Another lighthearted and witty romp through Regency England! An interesting mystery with a twist and solved by two if my favorite sleuths.
November 4, 2023
An enjoyable read.
The Duchess and the Duke take on another murder mystery. The story was many twist and turns to keep you guessing. The characters are well thought out and realistic. If you enjoy the Regency period with a touch of romance and mystery this book and series is for you.
The Duchess and the Duke take on another murder mystery. The story was many twist and turns to keep you guessing. The characters are well thought out and realistic. If you enjoy the Regency period with a touch of romance and mystery this book and series is for you.
November 3, 2023
Her outrageousness has once again found a wonderful twist to the plot including one from his Graces past. A number of new characters to challenge her outrageousness hypothesis. Delightful as always and looking forward to the next mystery.
November 4, 2023
excellent
I rather adored this book. It had some elements we hadn’t seen in one of Bea’s investigations before. Loved seeing Nuneaton again and I hope he has more screen time in the future. 10/10 will read again. And already looking forward to the next one of course!
I rather adored this book. It had some elements we hadn’t seen in one of Bea’s investigations before. Loved seeing Nuneaton again and I hope he has more screen time in the future. 10/10 will read again. And already looking forward to the next one of course!
November 4, 2023
One of the Best Yet!
Laugh out loud moments, savvy back and forth repartee, a fun read in the Beatrice Hyde Clare tradition, definitely leaves you wanting more.
Laugh out loud moments, savvy back and forth repartee, a fun read in the Beatrice Hyde Clare tradition, definitely leaves you wanting more.
October 19, 2023
This is only my 2nd Lynn Messina and it won't be my last. I intend to start with book 1 and read the whole series! Thanks to Book Whisperer and Netgalley for a review copy.
Now a Duchess in Victorian England, Beatrice continues doing detective work. Her husband, the Duke, is a wonderful, progressive man who helps and encourages her.
The book begins with Bea catching her usual honest husband in a Great Fabrication (isn't that a wonderful way of saying a lie) (Also, this lie brings in a character from another series, the book I have actually read, Lark)
Bea comes down her stairs to find her husband in the arms of a beautiful woman, Penelope Taylor, who is his mistress from 10 years ago. The plot thickens. Penny has been accused of murder and wants Bea's help. The mystery is excellent, the characters interesting, and I really NEED to read the previous books.
Now a Duchess in Victorian England, Beatrice continues doing detective work. Her husband, the Duke, is a wonderful, progressive man who helps and encourages her.
The book begins with Bea catching her usual honest husband in a Great Fabrication (isn't that a wonderful way of saying a lie) (Also, this lie brings in a character from another series, the book I have actually read, Lark)
Bea comes down her stairs to find her husband in the arms of a beautiful woman, Penelope Taylor, who is his mistress from 10 years ago. The plot thickens. Penny has been accused of murder and wants Bea's help. The mystery is excellent, the characters interesting, and I really NEED to read the previous books.
October 26, 2023
I fall for everything Lynn Messina writes!
This book - like all her books - is an absolute delight!
This book - like all her books - is an absolute delight!
October 16, 2023
Duchess Bea is up to her old tricks….solving murders. But this time her husbands first mistress has been accused of murder, swears she’s innocent and asks for Bea’s help….awkward! Bea believes this woman…Penny…and despite the odd connection, she wants to find the real killer. To add to the drama, Bea is pregnant and Damian her husband isn’t keen on the flying around town chasing killers. Of further interest. Damian meets his long unknown half sister Verity Lark (tie into that series) and is working through the implications. A great edition to this series…. can’t wait for more. Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC of this book.
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