Murder by Invitation

Lady Eleanor Swift #15

by Verity Bright

Lady Swift has been cordially invited to a huge royal celebration in Little Buckford to toast the King’s birthday… but wait, is that a body in the village hall?

Lady Eleanor Swift and her loyal butler Clifford are busy lending a hand with preparations for the big day. The grand dining room at Henley Hall is overflowing with home-sewn flags, paint and royal rosettes. Even Gladstone the bulldog and his new friend Tomkins the ginger cat are invited!

But just days before the event Mr Prestwick-Peterson, the chairman of the celebrations committee, is found dead in the village strangled with handmade red, white and royal blue bunting.

With the village hall in total disarray and a key part of the decorations missing, Eleanor wonders if someone dastardly is sabotaging the King’s birthday celebrations? Teaming up with her handsome beau Detective Hugh Seldon to question the local butcher, baker, and pub landlord it becomes clear that the meddlesome busybody Mr Prestwick-Peterson was not universally liked in charming Little Buckford. Indeed, the only mystery is why he wasn’t murdered before…

Searching Mr Prestwick-Peterson’s pristinely organised rooms, Eleanor is surprised to find a faded photograph of a beautiful young woman hidden within the pages of a novel. Could this be the key to untangling this very village murder? And can Eleanor catch the killer before the party is over for her, too?

A totally charming, unputdownable Golden Age murder mystery with characters readers will adore. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical, Audiobook, Fiction, Cozy

317 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 27, 2023

About the author

Verity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery.

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, this time in #15, Murder by Invitation, author Verity Bright had me captivated from beginning to end. With the celebrations for the King's birthday fast approaching, and Eleanor now in charge, after the murder of the previous chairman, she joined forces with her fiance, Detective Hugh Seldon and her inimitable butler, Clifford, in their search for the killer.

But with every lead hitting a dead end - and discovering that almost everyone had cause to think murderous thoughts of the deceased, Eleanor wondered if they'd ever find the person they were searching for.

With the usual light hearted and comical banter between Ellie and Clifford, plus the acceptance of the villagers of Little Buckford of Hugh, Eleanor knew her happiness would be complete - so long as the murderer was discovered, and soon. I love this series, and hope it continues for a long time to come! Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Phrynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our fifteenth adventure with Lady Eleanor (Ellie) and Clifford her remarkable butler, and it was just as good as always.

The village is preparing to celebrate the King's birthday and things are going well until an important member of the Planning Committe is found strangled with celebratory bunting. Luckily Detective Hugh Seldon is visiting, and he joins the intrepid duo in discovering the murderer. Gladstone the dog, Tomkins the cat, and all the ladies at Henley Hall all play worthy roles as well.

On this occasion Ellie and Clifford find themselves in a very dangerous situation indeed which results in a very nerve-wracking chapter - unusual in this series but it definitely upped the excitement level. Hugh Seldon raised the romantic level too. His speech about his engagement to Ellie actually brought tears to my eyes! It was all above what you might expect from a standard cosy.

I loved it all and as I say quite often about these books - look at that beautiful cover. Keep them coming!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Javier · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 ⭐️

After being away on her travels for the last three installments, Lady Swift is finally back home at Henley Hall in Murder By Invitation, the 15th book in the series, in which the birthday celebrations for King George will be the perfect backdrop for another cozy mystery.

Lady Swift is part of the planning committee charged with preparations to toast the King’s birthday but, days before the event, Mr Prestwick-Peterson, the chairman of the committee is found dead, strangled with some bunting. Is someone sabotaging the celebrations? With the help of her trusted butler Clifford and her fiancé, Detective Hugh Seldon, Eleanor will delve into the lives and secrets of Little Buckford neighbors to try and catch the killer before celebrations are ruined.

It was so nice to be back home in Little Buckford and getting to know more about Ellie’s neighbors. One of the greatest things in this series are its characters and how they interact with each other. I love how at home Ellie feels with everyone, no matter their social standing, and how she always knows how to deal with everyone to bring out the best in them. The love the village has for her is more than evident, you only had to see how everyone congratulated her on her engagement.

Another of the novelties I enjoyed the most this time was how she and Hugh worked together as a team. It is the first time we see them so much time together and it offered a glimpse into what their new life as a married couple will be like.

I found the mystery to be a little bit darker than we’ve come used to. I suspected the culprit pretty early on, so it was a bit bittersweet when my suspicions were proven right. While chasing the killer, Ellie and Clifford will face greater dangers than usual and, although it was tense and nerve racking (especially if you’re a bit claustrophobic), I think it was a bit drawn out.

Another enjoyable historical cozy mystery that portrays vividly an interesting place and time, with a cast of fantastic characters that is always a pleasure to go back to.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good twist!

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookoture for the free e-arc. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.

Ellie, Clifford, the ladies and the pets are eagerly anticipating the King's birthday celebrations. There's much work to be done and the chairman of the village celebration committee, Mr. Prestwick-Peterson, has managed to get on everyone's nerves with his endless fussing and extra workload. Hugh finally has a few days off to spend with Ellie and they're looking forward to being together at last. It's the perfect time to introduce Hugh to the village as Ellie's fiancé! Unfortunately, Hugh's vacation turns into a working vacation when Mr. P-P ends up dead the morning after the committee meeting and the suspects are all the villagers! To make matters worse, the blacksmith who was publicly hostile towards old P-P is missing! Ellie must take the lead in the investigation this time as it is her village and she knows the people and how to talk to them to make them more forthcoming. With Clifford and Gladstone, Hugh and Ellie set out to find the murderer before Hugh has to return to Oxford. Then, a shocking development in the case leads Oxford to believe the murderer is a member of an anarchist/anti-royalist society! That allows Hugh to stay longer but raises the stakes for the killer must be found before the King's birthday and made an example of!

This story was far better than the previous two. I love English country village novels! It was wonderful to be back in the countryside with Ellie and everyone where they belong. I enjoyed meeting more of the villagers and learning about their lives. The mystery was engaging but I did figure out who the murderer was. It was a little misleading because I had forgotten about that character with all the other suspects! There's just too many! The history is great. Your eyebrows will raise to the roof when you read the doctor's suggestions to cure hay fever! (smoking, ether, cocaine!) Even Clifford's remedy sounds like it would not work but at least it won't kill you.

Ellie has really come into her own. She's confident, capable and loves being a part of the village life. No more running away. She's found her home and her heart. I loved seeing her sleuth with Hugh. Ellie knows how to talk to the villagers and get them to open up. She knows they won't reveal everything if Hugh approaches them as a policeman so she starts by introducing him as her fiancé. People trust HER so they're a little more willing to open up to Ellie with Hugh listening. He's changed too. He's not so gruff and stern as he used to be. He's learned to relax, go with the flow and accept Ellie as she is. He wouldn't love her if she weren't stubborn, strong-willed and sometimes scatterbrained. When he isn't around to keep her safe, she has Clifford. This time, Hugh has to accept that Ellie knows what she's doing. She's more familiar with the people and the landscape. However, he does get tough and mean when confronting suspects and frightens one of them. I didn't like that side of Hugh.

Clifford is as capable as always but not nearly so unflappable. Something happens that rattles him and makes him worried and scared. He reveals one more little piece of himself, his past, in this novel. It's interesting. His past is not what I would expect from someone like Clifford. When he's not in danger, he's his usual joking self. I love his relationship with Ellie. He teases her but he loves her and she can take it. He's still fussy about certain matters like sitting in my lady's presence and being alone with a man. Hugh can't even stay at Henley Hall! It isn't proper. Clifford thinks of everything before it's needed and makes arrangements for Hugh. That seems very strange because Clifford is there, the ladies, the bodyguard Ellie has never met and Joseph the gardener! The ladies are all atwitter having Hugh around to giggle over and spoil. It doesn't impact their work though but it may be uncomfortable for Hugh. I believe we met Joseph the gardener once before. He's eager to do his part to celebrate the King's birthday. Joseph is humble and shy

Gladstone has a new partner in crime, Tompkins the ginger cat. Together they tag team to steal as much food as they can. Gladstone comes along for the investigation happily and his best buddy stows away too! They are just so cute! I think Gladstone is going to become more enormous being spoiled by Papa Hugh! (How old IS this dog anyway? He's living forever on a diet of sausages and little exercise LOL!)

We meet lots of villagers and an outsider. Mr. Prestwick-Peterson lives in the village but is not of the village. He's an outsider and it shows. He's fussy, uptight, upright and moral. I do slightly feel bad for him because it sounds like he has OCD but that doesn't mean he has to stick his nose in everyone's business and tattle every time he SUSPECTS something isn't quite right. He has no proof of most of the things he complained about and others he has no right to interfere in traditional village matters even if it's not entirely legal. His endless fussing and complaining has not made him any friends in the village. Now he's heaping more work on the villagers who are happy to serve the king and show their patriotism but not happy about having more work piled on top of what they already have to do.

Constable Fry is a hoot. He's earnest and a good chap. He would be able to solve a murder in the village on his own but it might take awhile. His wife must be a saint for they have triplets! Fry is super proud of his boys but knows when to keep them out of sight. We've met this family before and they are delightful.

Suspects include Dylan Penry, the butcher. He seems nice, honest and hard working but isn't entirely truthful with Hugh. Who was in the right: Mr. P-P or Penry? I like him and don't want him to be the murderer. He's certainly strong enough to strangle a man. Likewise Jimmie "Clanger" Dawkins. Clanger the blacksmith made no secret of his animosity towards P-P. Clanger was willing to make the plaque for the King's birthday celebration but not be a part of the meeting where P-P was in charge. Now he's missing which makes him look guilty! Mr. Brenchley of the village store and his son John were first one the scene. John seems like an earnest lad, sincere and honest. His dad is older, wiser and more canny. He has a good reason to hate P-P who wrestled the chairman position away from him. Why was that and what happened? It puts Mr. Brenchley near the top of the suspect list but I don't think he did it. I don't want the killer to be Stokes the publican either. He's so jolly, friendly and fun! If he has beef with P-P, why kill the man now? Perhaps because they're expecting a big crowd for the celebration and if the pub is shut down, Stokes will lose a ton of money!

Farmer Cartwright hates everyone but especially has beef with P-P. Rumor has it, Cartwright accused P-P of harassing his wife. Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright are awful people. He's fractious and quick to shoot. He's jealous and possessive and I don't think he trusts his wife, let alone P-P. Mrs. C is awful too. She's cranky, rude and anti-feminist. She's worn down with farm chores and a beastly husband I suspect. How is she connected to P-P? Is she the woman they think she is? Why was he harassing her? I think Cartwright is the murderer. Or Mrs. She has good reason to want P-P out of the way! Charlie-the-Carriage is a hoot. He drives a motorized farm cart which is not charming like the one we take to pick fruit or pumpkins in the field at the local farm. It does bump and rattle a lot and I can't imagine using this as a taxi service. Charlie is a relic of days gone by and a village mainstay. He's no more capable of murder than a horse. He's elderly!

Even Rev. Gaskell has beef with P-P but he doesn't like to show it. He's so calm and mild-mannered as he should be. Ellie doesn't seriously consider him a suspect but Hugh does. There's no way! None! A man of the cloth wouldn't strangle someone like that. Likewise Dr. Browning who would devise a more clever and undetectable murder method. I think we can cross those two venerable men off the list. HOWEVER, Rev. Gaskell's advice to P-P was not good and may have contributed to his murder!

Mrs. Kimble was P-'s landlady. She's a war widow only receiving a partial pension when she needs all the money she can get, being a person with a disability. She had polio and isn't very strong. She's very kind and the only person who seemed to NOT have beef with P-P!

The knife grinder is an outsider. He travels around sharpening people's knives for a fee. He serves nearby villages. This man is gruff, rather rude and impatient.

Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham throw an engagement party for Ellie and Hugh. They've forgiven Hugh for arresting Lance but it sounds like Lord F-L has not forgiven Ellie for dumping his son. He jokes about it but the joke is a little cruel. They're very kind and welcoming though. Unlike Lord Wildmoor, a neighboring landowner. He's snobby, rude and probably has no idea who P-P is in spite of the fact P-P worked for him.

Another wonderful entry in this series!

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder by Invitation is the 15th book in the A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series. I am really enjoying this series, set in the small countryside village of Little Buckford. The King's birthday is coming and there is going to be a wonderful celebration with everyone either participating or attending. A relative newcomer to the village, Mr Prestwick-Peterson is the chairman of the celebrations committee. He is a bossy man, more concerned about safety than alienating his neighbours. When he is found dead in the village strangled with handmade red, white and royal blue bunting, it seems everyone in the village had a gripe with him and could be considered a suspect. One man, the blacksmith, Clanger, is missing and the prime suspect in the case. Can Eleanor, her butler Clifford, and Chief Detective and Eleanor's fiance, Detective Hugh Seldon find the murderer before the celebration?

This was another entertaining historical cozy mystery that I recommend. The characters in these books are wonderful, and I love spending time with them. Eleanor is nothing like a Lady should be and she often acts quickly and irrationally, but thanks to her butler, Clifford, she seems to come out of all her exploits relatively unharmed. The ladies that work in her home are a hoot. They can yell at a worker one minute, then swoon over Hugh Seldon the next. I love the relationship Eleanor has with her employees as well as the villagers. Everyone, including me, seems to love Eleanor's pets, Gladstone the bulldog and his new friend Tomkins the ginger cat. They are included in everything Eleanor does and are welcomed. The mystery was excellent. Eleanor has a way of deducing things and every time Hugh got called away, she and Clifford were off following one of her hunches. There was a dangerous situation as a result of one of their chases, but you will have to read this one to find out what happened. You do not have to read the series to enjoy this book, but I am enjoying catching up on the ones I missed and suggest you do the same if you enjoy this book.

[Kelly Hodgkins · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have been an avid reader of the Lady Swift series and have recommended them widely. I read book 14 and this one and feel they have lost their cosiness. Spoilers below to explain so please skip if you’ve yet to read them and don’t want to know.

*Spoiler warning*
I struggled to connect again with Eleanor after her near-death escape in book 14 but hoped being back in the village she would be in her groove. The murder includes a calling card and that flagged for me this wouldn't be so cosy. Sure enough, there is a grim mining story with several deaths at the hands of the murderer. I found it upsetting. I skipped ahead to the end to see the resolution and was disappointed Eleanor is, once again, very nearly killed. They don’t actually catch the killer, rather he dies at his own hand. I’ll be taking a break from the series. I read cosy novels to relax and solve the whodunit, not for emotional upheaval and grimness.

[Karren Hodgkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

It is the interactions between the ensemble of lovely characters in each of the cozy mysteries that I've come to look forward to, and in this one, they certainly had their moments! but sadly I struggled with the storyline finding it a little dark for a cozy. I don't want to spoil your read by sharing the plot but it jarred for me.It felt quite sad. I'm also struggling with the relationship between Hugh and Eli. He's coming across as insecure and just a little too old-fashioned for such an independent adventuress, Are they really suited? Hmm!!

Hoping that book 16 will resonate more. I'm confident that this one will be enjoyed by many

It's 3 out of 5 for me! With thanks to Bookouture, Netgalley and the author for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review

[Roz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another outing for the glorious pairing of Lady Eleanor Swift, her trusty butler Clifford and her soon to be husband, the gallant detective Hugh. Not forgetting, of course the cast of Henley Hall with the loyal servants and pets. This cast of characters provide the perfect backdrop to a cozy mystery and in this episode we see Lady Eleanor taking the reigns as Chair of the birthday celebrations for the King after the untimely death of its previous incumbent, Mr Prestwick-Peterson.

As usual in this enthralling series the characters we have come to love as readers see Lady Eleanor and Clifford assist Hugh and the police in not one but two murders, helping to find clues and protecting the innocent. The descriptions of Henley Hall and the characters really bring the books to life and it is easy to lose plenty of time wanting to turn the pages for just a chapter more.

Highly recommended for those who enjoy a cozy mystery and it is set in a lovely era which is written so well and vividly by the author. Can be read as a standalone however I would recommend reading all the series from the start so you become acquainted with the characters and their personalities. This makes the books even more of a joy.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Little Buckford is in full planning mode, ready to celebrate King George V's birthday. Lady Swift has been invited to be part of the organising committee chaired by village newcomer, Mr Prestwick-Peterson, who, it is fair to say, isn't universally loved! With every meeting descending into argument and disagreement, she has her work cut out if she's to help provide the village with a day to remember!

When a body is found with one of the birthday decorations, the obvious murder weapon,d Eleanor is determined to discover the killer’s identity. As her fiancé, Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, is officially investigating, she, her ever resourceful butler, Clifford, and bulldog, Gladstone, enthusiastically begin working alongside him. With shocking discoveries leading them closer to home and long hidden secrets being reluctantly revealed, could it be the King’s party celebrations will be missing its guests of honour?

The fifteenth book in Verity Bright's excellent series finds everyone back at home after their American adventures. With all the main protagonists back on familiar ground and everyone offering their congratulations, Hugh has an even more difficult time than normal, keeping everything moving smoothly, which I loved. His relationship with Clifford also takes a starring role, and there is a fair bit of humour interspersed with the more serious aspects of this brilliant book.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. This was an excellent read, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and the series, even after fifteen books, keeps getting better and better.

[Linniegayl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic entry -- 15th -- in the Lady Eleanor historical mystery series. Eleanor is back home and along with her Butler/co-investigator Clifford we have all of her household staff. Hugh, now her fiancee, plays a key role in this book.

The town is getting ready to celebrate the King's birthday, and of course, Eleanor is at the center of things. But soon, a murder occurs, and Eleanor and Clifford leap in to investigate, right along with Hugh. The mystery was puzzling, with an unlikeable victim and seemingly everyone in the village a potential suspect.

I liked the mystery, but even more liked seeing all of my favorite characters again. I can't wait to read the next in the series!

[Nanette Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bright always delivers a bang-up ending! But now I have to wait until December to read the next installment.

[Keely · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a review about the series as a whole, rather than a specific book review about each book.


I am enjoying this series somewhat. I do find somethings rather frustrating at times, but overall, I like how things are developing through the whole series and I do want answers to certain questions that still have to be answered. It's a pleasant, not taxing on brain way to spend a couple of hours.

Eleanor. Right. She does not read as a 28 something woman, who eventually hits her 30's as the series progresses. Her character background doesn't fit the character we are presented with. I know she has been somewhat spoiled and is pampered, but she reads as a teenager to me, especially as all her exploring should've made her more mature. She has been travelling the world for 10 years alone. I repeat, travelling alone as a woman in the 1920's. That wouldn't have been easy and you'd need your wits about you. It's not like she's been locked in a manor for 15 years and is finally being released into the world alas Rapunzel. I also find her general horniness, both hilarious and frustrating, especially when she's falling for people she's just met and having romancey moments at the most worst times when she should be focusing on something much more serious. Though I do know it's part of her character that she falls hard over nothing and has a habit of rushing into romances with people she barely knows. She knows this about herself, yet does it anyway, she never really grows in this respect througout the story. I also didn't like that she turned into blushing, awkward giggling girl around males she finds attractive. It's stereotypical and once again, it's reminisce of a teenager. You'd think at 28, you can be around an attractive male and be fine. Most woman I know can. She just doesn't come across as a 28-30 year woman to me. I do sigh when she's like a bull in a china shop where a delicate hand was needed. She sometimes makes life hard for herself though once again, I know that's one huge part of her character traits, but she can come across quite rude at times. But I don't dislike her and I don't mind having her as the main character, I do wish we would have some more character growth within the story though.

Also, I know talk of food is a somewhat part of the cozy genre, but it gets tiring that Eleanor eats six heavily calorie meals a day, yet always keeps her figure. It's unrealistic and is a pet peeve of mine, as it's a mythical dream that is used as a stick to beat woman with when they can't achieve it.

I really like Clifford (despite the grating chivalry misogyny and being all proper which can get tiring. And I dislike how he's always reminding the ladies that because Eleanor has a title, that means she's better, worth more and special than them. All people are equal on the whole. A title doesn't mean much in this day and age. I know it's somewhat suitable/normal for the time period, but I think the authors can easily not focus and push this specific idea as much as they do. I know Clifford truly believes that she's better but it's getting old, especially when he pushes it on the staff several times a book.) and the rest of the staff though Clifford should be a bit easier on them, haha. I mean, they're doing several peoples worth of work a day by themselves. And one of them is 15 and started working at 11. (Imagine having an 11 year old as a maid/cleaner/everything else.) Dude doesn't know how to relax and chill. And Gladstone is my favourite. He's a cutie and I love his addition to the story. He makes a cute, fun aspect to the books with his charming personality of constantly stealing shoes and his penchant for digging.

Also, Polly started working at the manor at 11. In 1918, you had to stay in school until you were 14! so what's with that?!? Breaks the immersion. I don't understand why they couldn't have her at like 17? It would change nothing. She can still be a clumsy, young, silly girl at 17. You wouldn't have to change a thing about her character as it was written. I don't understand why the author chose her to come to the manor at 11, and be 15 within the stories narrative. Also, within the books I've read (13 as I type this sentence), we've had 2 Eleanor's birthdays, but Polly still has remained 15 somehow?

General Discussions about the series as a whole, including my thoughts on Hugh so probable minor spoilers;



While I think Hugh is a step up from the other guy (He had no substance and was always about just having a good time), I can't help but feel that he wants to change Eleanor, rather than accept her as she is. I know it's partly down the classic chivalry misogyny of the time period, but it is frustrating. He just needs to accept that she won't stand for injustice and stop ordering her about. For her to be like "Someone has been murdered. Oh well, not my problem." is asking her to be someone else. I know he worries about her safety, but that is in Eleanor's control, rather than his. Also, Eleanor has been right on the mark about murders happening. He says no. She says yes. She is proved right. It has happened what like seven times? I can accept that after the first or second one, he might still disregard her opinion. But after the third one, he still does it. Which I don't get. He should trust her instincts as she has yet to be proved wrong, unlike Hugh. She has proved him wrong every single book when he's declared "natural causes" yet he still doesn't trust her instincts and knowledge. Infact, Hugh should trust Eleanor opinion more than his own, considering he's been wrong on the mark so many times. It makes him come across as an idiot when he dismisses Eleanor so easily, especially as the reader knows he is in the wrong. So as a reader, I find that aspect frustrating as it feels like time wasting as we know Eleanor is right and doesn't make me warm to him. As we know Eleanor is right, he kinda comes across as incompetent when he could help but chooses not to do so. It's acceptable when higher ups are blocking him etc, but not when he's not helping due to free will. So I find that aspect really frustrating. And despite me reading 10 books with the character, we still know very little about him as a whole. So I hope the future books will stop him having a moan every book about Eleanor choosing to find answers to a murder as it's getting old. I want him to accept Eleanor as she is, she won't let things go when she could help and he needs to accept that. The chivalry disguised as misogyny is getting old and not making me like him all that much, and I believe as a reader, I'm supposed to do so, as I think he's the main romance aspect of this series. I can't see Eleanor swerving back to Lance and unless a new guy moves to the village, we don't have many other romance options. Also, it's hypocritical that he spends most of his time at work, so justice is important to him, yet he can't accept that justice and answers is just as important to Eleanor. It's one of the things they have in common. I am also getting so tired about the locking her in the house/Clifford control this woman!!! jokes, or should I say, jokey half truths, cause if he had no "chivalry", Eleanor would be tied to a chair in the library. I was going to say oven or something generic like that, but we know Eleanor isn't going to make a single meal in these books and why should she.

UPDATE SINCE THE ENGAGEMENT: Hugh has stopped acting such a twat since the engagement which I appreciate and has become a lot more tolerable, even though I still think he's an idiot. He's still on thin ice though.

Though his calviliar attitude towards Joseph being murdered as a proof of rough justice was a bit twatish and cruel
It was a very shrug of shoulders, even though he wanted to help, there was no emergency to it. Especially as it's part of his fault that Joseph ran. Also, come on, I have no real bad blood towards the Royals, but their attitude towards people who want "Republic" was way too dramatic, though it may be just because of the time period.


I didn't like Lance, he was shallow, vapid and had no real substance so I was glad he was binned off as a romance option quite quickly. He was more childish than Eleanor. He has no respect for anyone. And is very dismissive to the things that matter to Eleanor.

Also, it gets a bit boring when everyone fancies the main character. It's just a small annoying tidbit.

And it is a bit tiring when everyone else is either an serious idiot or is being evil for no reason. Like come on!

Also, I understand why the author keeps the staff at the manor down to 6-7 people as it would be hard to have 30 staff members popping up and being background characters. It allows the 6-7 staff to have their own personality without overwhelming. But I can't help think they must work to the bone, as it impossible they could do everything they do. There is no way that 6-7 people can keep a 40 something room manor clean, make food, do all chores, helping their lady etc. There are two, then three, ladies whose job it is to clean and help Eleanor amongst other jobs, no way two people can keep a manor in pristine condition. And Eleanor makes their life harder and easier at the same time, she'll buy them a vaccum but she won't keep her clothes tidy, thus making them clean up her twenty outfits that she's tried on and discarded on the floor. And I know it's stated that Eleanor offers more staff and they turn her down. But that's just silly. I mean, average people in a 3 bed can easily get behind with chores, especially with those tasks that should be done every month, but end up being done every three, e.g. spring cleaning, the fridge, cleaning the skirting boards, taking everything out of the cabinet and dusting/washing it all. But they simply could not realistically keep this manor to high standards, they would legit never be able to sleep. But I can let go and accept this part is pure fantasy. But Imagine watching an 11 year old work each day! Cleaning your banisters, dropping your tray, doing the stuff you could easily do yourself etc. It would be weird. The girl is meant to be at school! In 1918, it was compulsory to stay in school till 14. Obviously probably didn't always happen that way, but the law exists.






FOR READERS AFTER BOOK 13;

okay. I've decided to give Hugh another chance even though I dislike him, after the big old proposal. We'll see if he's actually accepted Eleanor or not.

[Pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m disappointed in this instalment as I feel Eleanor gets all the credit for solving mysteries when most of the time it’s her butler who’s guiding her and getting her out of scrapes. Her tendency to make hasty and dangerous decisions also do not make me want to support her; especially when she’s told multiple times to take care of herself. She brazenly thinks only of what she wants to do without being mindful of those who care for her.

I’ll try another one and hope she starts to be more careful. What keeps me liking these books is her rapport with Clifford. However, I did find some parts of the story too draggy.

[Anna Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and the characters. The mystery kept me guessing again.

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lady Tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5 / 5

Believe it or not, it actually doesn't take me this long to usually get through an Eleanor Swift mystery, but lately I've been in a bit of a reading slump. So, in part it may be because of that, or it may be that my critique on the quality of our lovely Eleanor Swift mysteries is accurate, but...

This wasn't the best work put forward in the series, I don't think.

In this newest addition, we have Eleanor and Clifford finally back home after their adventures in Ireland, on the Atlantic, and in New York. It's refreshing to be back in Little Buckford after what seems like a long time, and definitely Eleanor feels that as well! There's no time to waste though, as the king's birthday celebrations are afoot--and Eleanor, of course, has to partake in an executive role in the preparations as well.

Imagine how much of a hassle things get to be when there's a murder afoot!

Poor Eleanor is not only put in charge of the whole works for the birthday parade, but now also has a murder to solve. Oh, and not to mention, juggling introducing her new fiancé to everyone--what a lot going on all at once!

Or...well, it feels like it should be busier than it is, except that this book is more slow-moving than you'd expect. (Right up until the end, I should say, which is what convinced me to up this from my initial idea of a 4-star rating to a 5-star one, though only just.) What's interesting in keeping the mystery going is not really a lot of twists and turns in this one, but rather that it seems everyone has the same motive for wanting the victim dead, and also the same alibi!

Original angle on the plot as that is, one thing that left me wanting just a bit is how Hugh and Eleanor play off of each other in this book. They're kind of investigating together and whatnot, except that it feels like they're playing in separate parks and only really defer to the other when it seems that they might be arguing otherwise. There just wasn't the same amount of sparks between them as one would expect at this stage, and likewise for most of the story until the end, even Eleanor's relationship with Clifford just seems to have fallen into a set rut, I mean pattern, and it feels a bit dull.

Again, those last 50 pages in the story really make up for it, only I wish that it had picked up in other places too. Not to say that there needs to be a grandiose or large-scale mystery and intrigue always going on, as a smaller-scale mystery is fine too, but in this case I just didn't feel any intimidation factor or sense of urgency until the very end. None of the suspects are particularly, well, suspicious, and I guess because the author was trying to give some of the spotlight to Hugh and Eleanor's relationship as well, it just fell a bit short on both ends.

Now, reading through some of the other reviews for this book, I see that quite a few readers felt that it was getting a little too dark by the end, and while I can understand that, those parts were the only ones that really had me gripping the book at full attention. I suppose we all look for different things in cozies, but still.

All in all, I'd rank it at the lower end of my list, and can only hope that seeing the last two books down there isn't any sign for alarm just yet. Fingers crossed that the next one--next to Cornish cliffs, oh my!--will be a bit better. Looking forward to it as a cozy wintry read!

My Updated Ranking of the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries

1. Death on a Winter's Day (Book 8)
2. Mystery by the Sea (Book 5)
3. A Very English Murder (Book 1)
4. Death Down the Aisle (Book 11)
5. A Witness to Murder (Book 3)
6. Murder at the Fair (Book 6)
7. Death on Deck (Book 13)
8. The French for Murder (Book 10)
9. Murder in an Irish Castle (Book 12)
10. Murder in the Snow (Book 4)
11. Death at the Dance (Book 2)
12. Murder in Manhattan (Book 14)
13. A Royal Murder (Book 9)
14. Murder by Invitation (Book 15)
15. A Lesson in Murder (Book 7)

[Vivienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘Anti-royalism, Hugh? This is Little Buckford! It’s the most conservative and traditional village in all of England. It’s exactly everything this country, and King George, stand for personified.’”

My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Murder by Invitation’ by Verity Bright. I also was invited to take part in their publication week blog tour.

This is Book 15 in the Lady Eleanor Swift series of historical cosy mysteries set in 1920s England. As usual, I complemented my reading with its unabridged audiobook edition, narrated by Karen Cass.

The residents of Little Buckford are busy making preparations for a huge royal celebration in honour of the King’s birthday. Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift and her loyal butler Clifford are lending a hand along with the Henley Hall staff. Gladstone the bulldog and his new friend Tomkins, the ginger cat, are observing from the sidelines always on the lookout for treats.

Then just days before the event the body of Mr Prestwick-Peterson, the chairman of the celebrations committee, is found in the vandalised village hall. He was strangled with a length of red, white and royal blue bunting!

Eleanor’s beau, Detective Hugh Seldon, is assigned to the case, and together they question locals. They discover that Prestwick-Peterson was considered a busybody and was not well liked by many in the village. Then another body is found and the murder weapon again links to the upcoming royal celebrations. In addition, a ‘calling card’ was found with both bodies bearing an unknown symbol.

When Whitehall determines that the symbol links to a London-based anarchist group, the investigation takes on a political angle as there is concern that anarchists and anti-monarchist activists are seeking to disrupt the royal celebrations throughout the country, including its bucolic villages.

The plot thickens and the suspect lists grows. Then an arrest is made and the suspect imprisoned in the Tower! Yet Ellie is convinced that the police have made a mistake. Can she uncover the real murderer before there is a serious miscarriage of justice?

I am quite familiar with the characters and previous events as I have been following this series since its inception. However, for new readers some background (without spoilers for previous cases) is provided.

I was quite amused by the lengths that Clifford and Hugh undertook to ensure there was no hint of impropriety in their interactions with Ellie. Of course, this is in keeping with the social etiquette of the period and I felt that it was an important detail to honour the authenticity of the historical setting.

I will note that there was a heightened level of threat in the closing chapters that I feel moved this story more into semi-cosy territory.

Overall, I found ‘Murder by Invitation’ another engaging mystery for Ellie and company with a well realised historical setting. After the main narrative Verity Bright includes notes that provide background on certain historical details that feature in the plot.

Highly recommended book and series.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder By Invitation" in exchange for my honest review.

This is the 15th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series and it just gets better and better with each book. This book had the most tension and suspense in it as our favourite Ellie and her butler Clifford found themselves in possibly the most dangerous adventure yet.

At Henley Hall all our favourite characters are finally back from New York. The ladies: Mrs. Butters and Mrs. Trotman, and the maids: Polly and Lizzie. Ever the favourite Master Gladstone the bulldog once again has a great part to play along with his new friend Tompkins the ginger cat. In this story Joseph Wendon the gardener has a larger and more exciting role to play.

Little Buckford is preparing for the celebration of King George V birthday and the Celebration Committee is being chaired by Prestwick-Peterson. He is known to be a stickler for order and perfection. He can be pushy and over-officious. Things could only be done one way and that was his way. No one really knows him but all are aware of him because he spends his time reporting everyone for every perceived infraction.

A body is found in the Village Hall and it seems that Ellie has a talent for attracting them to otherwise quiet Little Buckford. The body is found strangled with the ladies bunting that they prepared for the celebrations. There are plenty of suspects because Prestwick-Peterson was not a well liked person. He shopped the butcher to food standards over the quality of his meat); he pushed the iron monger off the committee so he could be chair; he shopped the publican to the brewery for allegedly watering down the beer. When another body is found - there is one less person on the suspect list.

DI Hugh Seldon spends a lot of time in Little Buckford in this story and it's quickly evident that he doesn't understand Village life or how things work in a Village. He doesn't seem to understand why they picked up a sheep in the Rolls and returned it home.

We once again have a chance to read about Lord and Lady Fenwick Langdon - a staple in the earlier books when Ellie was engaged to their son Sir Lancelot.

Ellie and Clifford learn that everything that has happened could be connected to a mining disaster in Brillywyn, Wales. Verity Bright has written some of the best scenes ever for Ellie and Clifford in the chalk caves. The reader will feel the claustrophobia of what the characters are experiencing from the expert writing.

There are some shocking twists before the whole tale is wrapped up and explained by Ellie, Clifford and Hugh.

As always at the end of the book there are the fascinating historical notes that I personally enjoy reading and learning more about. As always when I finish a Lady Swift story, I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the next one.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The entire village of Little Buckford is enthusiastically preparing for the King’s birthday celebration. Eleanor, Clifford, and the ladies are all in on the preparation efforts. Eleanor’s sweetie Hugh – Detective Inspector Seldon – is on the scene, too. And that turns out to be a good thing, as murder strikes close to home this time. The chairman of the celebration committee is found dead in the village hall just days before the big to-do. As it turns out, he was almost universally disliked. But who hated him enough to kill him?

I think this is the best Lady Swift mystery yet! What a challenge, for Eleanor to consider that someone she knows and sees regularly might be a killer. From the pub owner to the butcher and everyone in between, almost everyone found Prestwick-Peterson annoying, or worse. In some instances, he’d taken action that threatened people’s livelihoods. Is that enough to push someone to murder?

And there are always close calls for Eleanor and Clifford, but I think this is the first time they’ve been in serious danger. I was biting my nails, waiting to see how Verity Bright got them out of their sticky circumstances.

The mystery itself kept me guessing, and I did not at all figure how it would end up. I’m not telling you what happens, but Bright led me a merry chase until it all started to come together. I do love a mystery I can’t figure out!

It’s also delightful seeing Hugh’s first real introduction to village life as Eleanor’s fiancé, indeed, their first real time together since their engagement. Eleanor is worried that some might think the lady of the manor is marrying beneath her station, but that doesn’t seem to be a problem. In fact, they’re officially introduced at a formal celebration dinner, and it goes off quite well!

The supporting cast of characters is, as always, thoroughly enjoyable. Butter, Trotters, and the rest of the staff must never sleep and must have eight hands each, what with all they were doing to prepare for the celebration and to lay on a good spread for Hugh’s benefit! The relationship Eleanor has with her staff is truly a treat. She is a woman ahead of her time, and I love her for it.

With Murder by Invitation, Verity Bright gives us another delectable entry in the adventures of Eleanor Swift. May there be many more! Highly recommended if you like Golden Age mysteries told with humor, wit, and a side of nonconformity from your heroine.

Thanks to Bookouture and the author for a review copy of the book. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.

[Helena Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to start this review with a disclaimer: I did not read the 14 preceding Lady Eleanor Swift mysteries. Fortunately, I can also state that this did not leave me confused and that it didn’t affect my enjoyment of this story at all.

Quite the opposite in fact. There’s a lot to enjoy in this charming story. The characters and the interactions between them are vivid, interesting, and at times chuckle-worthy. The exchanges between Lady Eleanor and Clifford, her butler, are especially delightful. Just as those between Eleanor and her fiancé Detective Hugh Seldon often made me smile. Overall, I can honestly say there wasn’t a boring or superfluous character in this story, and that includes Gladstone the bulldog and Tomkins, the cat.

The mystery in this book was intriguing and well-plotted. The murder of a man universally disliked is always a great set-up and the fact that every possible suspect had the same, impossible to disprove, alibi, added greatly to the intrigue. When a second murder victim is discovered, the urgency of the investigation increases, especially since it is only days until the festivities to celebrate the King’s birthday are to take place. The solution surprised me, although I realised after I had it all spelled out for me that the clues I needed to figure it out for myself were all there. 😊

The one thing I found less charming was the thriller aspect near the end of the story. I don’t object to it being there, it just felt a bit (too) long in what was otherwise a delightful cozy mystery. Having said that, I can’t say it bothered me enough to put me off Lady Eleanor and I can definitely see myself reading other books in this series in the future.

To summarize: Murder by Invitation is a smoothly written, captivating cozy mystery featuring delightful characters and a well-plotted mystery.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book #15 of the The Eleanor Swift Mystery series, and the first that I have read. Often it can be a challenge coming in so late in a series, but I didn’t find any problems catching on to what was happening.

It did take me a couple of chapters to really get into the story, but I suspect those familiar with the characters will enjoy it right from the start. Those first chapters were very dialogue heavy, and I wasn’t invested in the characters at that point. As the story proceeded and I got a better feeling for the characters and location, it became a more enjoyable read.

The characters were quite entertaining. Lady Eleanor Swift is bright, daring, very loyal to her servants and village, and not at all restrained by what society expects of her. Her relationship with her butler, Clifford, was one of the high points of the story for me. The interactions between the two lend a great deal of humor to the story.

Clifford rather reminded me of Wodehouse’s Jeeves. He was very knowledgeable about many things and tried to maintain a professional demeanor in the face of many non-traditional situations. He often had creative solutions to problems that arose. However, he was definitely more talkative than Jeeves ever was.

The mystery was cleverly constructed. There was a very specific pool of suspects, all with very similar alibis that couldn’t be confirmed and all with nearly identical motives. There were some interesting twists along the way to the solution.

I received a free eArc of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

You can read my complete review on my blog allaboutcosy.com.

[Elaine Tomasso · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Murder by Invitation, the fifteenth novel to feature Lady Eleanor Swift, set in Buckinghamshire in the early 1920s.

Eleanor is on the Little Buckford committee organising the the King’s birthday celebrations, but it’s not all plain sailing, especially when the committee chair, Mr Prestwick-Peterson is found strangled to death with the commemorative bunting in the village hall. Eleanor teams up with her fiancé, Chief Inspector Seldon and her inestimable butler, Clifford to hunt the killer of a most unpopular man.

I thoroughly enjoyed Murder by Invitation, which is another fun filled adventure for Eleanor and Clifford. Most of the humour comes from the banter between them, but in a shocking twist it would seem that Hugh Seldon has joined forces with Clifford to try to keep her in line and safe. There are two chances of that, but Clifford wouldn’t think it seemly of me to expand.

The novel initially consists of the trio weighing up the potential suspects (and there are plenty) until Seldon, at the urging of his superiors, makes an arrest. Eleanor and Clifford are having none of it and in a bid to free the wrongly accused investigate Prestwick-Peterson’s past, where they find enough to establish an alternative suspect and hunt him down. It’s frightfully exciting in the second half as it involves a certain amount of danger.

Murder by Invitation is a well put together novel that is a fun read with little thinking required by the reader. It is escapism at its best and an easy way to while away a few hours. I have no hesitation in recommending it as a good read.

[Lynsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Murder By Invitation’ is the fifteen book in this series and it was just as captivating a story and mystery as usual! How are we are book fifteen already?? It can definitely be read as a standalone though, although I do recommend this series wholeheartedly.

It is the King’s birthday and the whole village, including Lady Eleanor Swift and her staff are involved in arranging a street party and celebration! Everything was going swimmingly until the chair of the Planning Committee was found murdered, strangled with the celebration bunting! As if so happens, Eleanor's fiance, Detective Hugh Seldon is visiting and they dive straight into working out who the murderer is.

I thoroughly enjoyed this outing but then I know I always am going to when I pick any book from this series up! But there was a section in which there was a lot of tension and danger for Eleanor and Clifford, her trusty Butler’ and I was hooked. It was expertly written and it felt very real to the reader. I was right there next to them as they made every decision! High-octane stuff indeed!

It was also lovely to see Eleanor and Hugh spend a more sustained time together as it allowed for a glimpse into what married life will look for them! What I love about these books is that the characters do feel like friends and you care for every one of them, especially Gladstone!

Roll on the next book! Let me know if you pick this one up.

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift is involved in the planning of a community celebration for King George V's birthday. But the plans go awry when the chair of the committee is found strangled to death by bunting...
Murder by Invitation is the 15th book in the Lady Swift series of cosy historical murder mysteries. Each book has a standalone case but the personal relationships have developed over the course of the preceding books.
Eleanor and her wonderful butler Clifford are working hard on a village event when they receive news that Mr Prestwick-Peterson has been killed. Along with Ellie's new fiance Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, the trio begin to investigate the death. Fans of the series will be delighted by the village's excitement at their engagement and this provides light relief from the topic of murder.
As usual in this series, there are plenty of suspects and motives for Eleanor and Clifford to expose and unpick. She throws herself into situations while he provides the steadying support. I enjoyed being back at Henley Hall with the other staff as well, and seeing Eleanor and Clifford's relationships with the other villagers.
There is little detail about the body or any violence, as you would expect from the genre of cosy murder mystery. I liked the historical aspects to the book and the atmosphere of village life that is created.
Murder by Invitation is an enjoyable addition to this entertaining series.

[Elaine Bidstrup · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murder by Invitation is the first book I have read by author Verity Bright and is number 15 in the Lady Eleanor Swift mysteries. This mystery takes place at Henly Hall, Lady Swift's country home shortly after the end of WWI. Along with her very proper butler, Clifford, and usually accompanied by her bulldog, Gladstone, and cat, Tompkins, Eleanor has solved several murders.
This happens in the small village of Little Buckford is preparing to celebrate the King's Birthday. Not that His Majesty is coming to their small village, but the villagers were looking for any excuse to celebrate anything! Lady Swift is one of the committee planning this and along with the other committee members hardily dislikes the chairman, Mr. Prestwick-Peterson.
Many details of early 20th century life in the Cotswolds are described in exquisite detail. Lady Swift's recent engagemenyt to Chief Inspector Seldon raises some eyebrows, not of her social class, but among the villagers. Dress of both men and women as well as typical food served in Henley Hall, the local pub, and at picnics are interestingly described.
The one thing I disliked about the book was the swiftness with which it ended. There was a feeling of "deux ex machina" (solution from the outside or a god) as my high school drama teacher would have said. I will read at least one more of Verity Bright's books if for no other reason but to see if this is the typical way she ends her books.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unpleasant local politician is murdered during the preparations for the festivities for the King of England's birthday. Ellie is on hand with her fiance and trusty household staff. Fun and sleuthing ensue in this very interesting cozy with sneaky red herrings and diabolical plot twists.
This can't be an unbiased review because I love this series! It works as a stand alone, though.
This series has the very best and interesting characters (good, bad, and absolutely silly). The series began as a farce: Eleanor is widowed and is a presumed orphan and world traveler on the cheap who comes to rural England and finds that she has inherited the title and all that from uncle who was recently deceased. The best part of it all is The Butler Who Knows Everything who helps her with anything (and never treats her like a ninny), her trusty household staff, her tiny French bulldog, the family kitty, and her recent fiance DCI Hugh Seldon of the Met who has been mightily tolerant of her sleuthing (but not of her wealth). I really enjoy all the ongoing (as well as new) characters, and the mysteries are so well done!
I requested and received a digital ARC of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

[Debbie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read/listen to A LOT of historical mysteries, cozy and traditional, and this is one of the best I have had the good fortune to find. Set in 1920s England, it is well researched with engaging mysteries that always keep me guessing, and to say the characters are well developed is a gross understatement. Lady Swift's intriguing past bicycling through exotic locations around the world may have prepared her well for the mysteries with which she is faced in England if not for her position as a member of the aristocracy, a Lady no less. Nonetheless, she is one of the most intelligent and delightful lead characters I have come across, and together she, her very (or mostly) proper butler, her household staff, and of course the dog, Gladstone, make the most captivating cast of characters you could ever want. The witty conversation and interactions between Lady Swift and her butler, Clifford, often have me chuckling, if not laughing out loud, and, yes, there is a perfect slow-burn romance with a delectable detective. I read one review that said the author team known as Verity Bright cannot write these books quickly enough, and I agree.

Karen Cass is the perfect narrator, bringing every character to life.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can a reader say about a series that has delighted from the beginning? The Lady Eleanor’s Swift cozy mysteries are such comforting fun.

Like returning to your hometown after a long absence, it’s always a great time to reconnect with friends and enjoy the familiarity of your special place. This 15th installment by husband and wife writing team with the pseudonym Verity Bright, hit the spot as always. The refreshing wholesomeness of good people in an earlier time period never fails to cheer me up. I love the interaction between Lady Swift and her butler and staff at Henley Hall in Little Buckford.

While preparing for a village wide celebration of King George V birthday, Lady Swift and friends get caught up in a murder investigation. Joined by her new fiancé, Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, Eleanor is in her element assisting with the case.

It was fun to see more of Hugh and hear more details about their relationship and engagement. Interested to see how everything progresses after they marry and hope they return to Henley Hall to do more sleuthing and crime fighting.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this e-book ARC to read and review. I no longer read a lot of series books, but this is one I can wholeheartedly recommend.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in the Lady Swift series!

I've not read all the books in the Lady Swift series, but I have enjoyed the ones I have read. This story is no exception. Once again we find our intrepid Ellie, also known as Lady Eleanor Swift, embroiled in murder and mystery along with her faithful and skilled butler Clifford and her stalwart detective fiance Hugh Seldon. Ellie's dog and cat tag along at times. I won't summarize the plot, you can get that elsewhere. What I will say is that Women remains a strong, independent yet caring and kind person. She has a good inner sense of solving mysteries and Hugh is finally trusting her instincts. I doubt Ellie would survive her investigations without the ingenuity and protection of Clifford! I !I've the time period and the setting of these books, and the insight into life in a tight knit English village. The story is complete, no cliffhangers, and the book is clean in language and relationships. The pace keeps the reader involved and the writing and editing are excellent. I look forward to reading another book in the series soon!

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

King's Birthday Celebration being planned. The committee head was Prestwick-Peterson (PP). He was found murdered, strangled by bunting for the Birthday celebration.
Committee members besides Eleanor:
Mr Cartwright - his wife may have been having an affair with PP;
Brenchley - pushed off being committee head, allegedly due to conflict of interest (goods sold from his store for the celebration;
Mr. Stokes - head of the Distillers - accused of watering down his drinks; Dodge and Badger;
Charlie the Carriage - taxi driver;
Dylan Penry, Worshipful Bodies of Butchers;
Reverend Gaskell;
Elizabeth Shackley and Mr. Shackley - bakers;
Jimmie Dawkins, blacksmith, Clanger, made the commemorative plaque - killed because he saw the first murder;
Mrs. Kimble - landlady for PP;
Dinner to announce Eleanor and Hugh's engagement officially at the Fenwick-Langham;
Worshipful Bodies of Gardners, Joseph who was initially arrested for the murders;
KILLER was the knife grinder, name? wanted to disrupt the royals, left a calling card with each body; found him at the Chalk caves, which ended up with his confession written in chalk on the metal doors and then he hung himself.