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Cressida Fawcett #4
Death on the Scotland Express
Someone on board has a deadly destination in mind… can Cressida stop them before it’s too late?
After an eventful trip to the Scottish Highlands, Cressida Fawcett is looking forward to being back among her society friends in London. Enjoying an ice-cold martini in the lounge car of the express train, loyal pug Ruby on her lap, she’s ready to blow off some steam!
But Cressida’s hopes for a relaxing journey are dashed when a gunshot resounds through the carriages. Industrial tycoon Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. And as this train has been racing through the countryside, the culprit must be among Cressy’s fellow passengers…
Teaming up with Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard, also on his way back to London, they work their way through the suspects. Did Warriner’s mistress, a famous dancer, see his death as her ticket on to the silver screen? Or was it the mysterious man who can’t take his eyes off Lewis’s close companion?
When the murder weapon is found in the compartment Mr Warriner’s wife occupies alone, she becomes the chief suspect. Until there’s another gunshot. When Cressida finds out that Andrews is hit, panic sets in, but she must try to stay calm.
But with her friend and co-investigator out of action, can Cressida get the journey, and the investigation, back on track? And will she catch the murderer before they reach their final destination?
Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss will absolutely love this addictive Golden Age cosy mystery.
After an eventful trip to the Scottish Highlands, Cressida Fawcett is looking forward to being back among her society friends in London. Enjoying an ice-cold martini in the lounge car of the express train, loyal pug Ruby on her lap, she’s ready to blow off some steam!
But Cressida’s hopes for a relaxing journey are dashed when a gunshot resounds through the carriages. Industrial tycoon Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. And as this train has been racing through the countryside, the culprit must be among Cressy’s fellow passengers…
Teaming up with Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard, also on his way back to London, they work their way through the suspects. Did Warriner’s mistress, a famous dancer, see his death as her ticket on to the silver screen? Or was it the mysterious man who can’t take his eyes off Lewis’s close companion?
When the murder weapon is found in the compartment Mr Warriner’s wife occupies alone, she becomes the chief suspect. Until there’s another gunshot. When Cressida finds out that Andrews is hit, panic sets in, but she must try to stay calm.
But with her friend and co-investigator out of action, can Cressida get the journey, and the investigation, back on track? And will she catch the murderer before they reach their final destination?
Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss will absolutely love this addictive Golden Age cosy mystery.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2023
615 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 25, 2023
As Cressida Fawcett, her friend Dotty and Dotty's brother Alfred travelled back from the Scottish Highlands to London, they were relaxing in the dining car, looking forward to being back home. But the sound of a gunshot threw everything into turmoil, and meant the rest of the journey was put to solving the crime.
With Detective Andrews and his sidekick Kirby, also on the train, it wasn't just up to Cressida to search for clues. Because one thing they knew for sure; the killer was on the train with them. A second lot of shots came, this time two of them, and Detective Andrews was shot, as well as the culprit they'd arrested. With it being obvious they'd arrested the wrong person, Cressida, Dotty and Alfred had their work cut out. Would they solve the case before arriving in London, where the killer could escape?
Death on the Scotland Express is the 4th in the Cressida Fawcett series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fliss Chester tells a good tale; a great cosy historical mystery, as this one is set in around 1920. Light, entertaining and intriguing as we watch how Cressida's brain works, sifting through the clues. I'm looking forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
With Detective Andrews and his sidekick Kirby, also on the train, it wasn't just up to Cressida to search for clues. Because one thing they knew for sure; the killer was on the train with them. A second lot of shots came, this time two of them, and Detective Andrews was shot, as well as the culprit they'd arrested. With it being obvious they'd arrested the wrong person, Cressida, Dotty and Alfred had their work cut out. Would they solve the case before arriving in London, where the killer could escape?
Death on the Scotland Express is the 4th in the Cressida Fawcett series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Fliss Chester tells a good tale; a great cosy historical mystery, as this one is set in around 1920. Light, entertaining and intriguing as we watch how Cressida's brain works, sifting through the clues. I'm looking forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2023
In this fourth outing Cressida Fawcett and her faithful pug, Ruby, are homeward bound from their holiday in Scotland. They are enjoying the trip to London on the Scotland Express train when someone is shot dead in their cabin. Of course Detective Andrews is also on the train and they have until their arrival in London to discover the murderer.
If you have ever enjoyed one of these long distance train journeys with cramped cabin space, very social bar and dining cars, and the difficulties of moving along the corridors as the train hurtles along, then you will feel for Cressy as she attempts to work out who was where and when. I was surprised by who was the murderer and I enjoyed the whole story very much. Four stars from me:)
If you have ever enjoyed one of these long distance train journeys with cramped cabin space, very social bar and dining cars, and the difficulties of moving along the corridors as the train hurtles along, then you will feel for Cressy as she attempts to work out who was where and when. I was surprised by who was the murderer and I enjoyed the whole story very much. Four stars from me:)
November 27, 2023
Death on the Scotland Express is the 4th book in the Cressida Fawcett Mystery series and is another well-written mystery set in the 1920s. This book begins immediately after the previous story ended. Cressida, Dotty, Alfred and her pug Ruby are returning from an event in Inverness. There was a murder and Cressida helped Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard solve the mystery. He is also on the train heading home to London, which is perfect, because there is a murder on the train. Industrial tycoon Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin, and his wife is the main suspect. She was on the train after receiving a note telling her her husband would be on the train and she should also get on the train, but not let anyone know she would be. When someone shoots Detective Andrews, Cressida has to pick up her investigation to solve the crime. Who killed Lewis Warriner, and why?
You can read any of the books in this series as a standalone, as each mystery is solved by the end of the book, but you will miss out on the character development and relationship building that occurs. With the three friends and two police officers we get to know the various characters and see how the crime is solved. There is some humor, most provided by Ruby, and plenty of suspects. It is a locked room mystery, it takes place on a moving train, so they know the murderer is among them. I like Cressy's instincts, she can read people well, uses Ruby to put them at ease and her style gets people to talk to her. The main characters, while privileged and well off, are well intentioned, kind and not the spoiled type that Lords and Ladies tend to be in Golden Age stories. This was an interesting mystery that was well-plotted and really made me think. The nod to Murder on the Orient Express was interesting. There is an inkling of romance between Cressy and Alfred, so I am hoping something happens in future books. This was another wonderful addition to this series that will make you a fan of Cressida Fawcett and Ruby.
You can read any of the books in this series as a standalone, as each mystery is solved by the end of the book, but you will miss out on the character development and relationship building that occurs. With the three friends and two police officers we get to know the various characters and see how the crime is solved. There is some humor, most provided by Ruby, and plenty of suspects. It is a locked room mystery, it takes place on a moving train, so they know the murderer is among them. I like Cressy's instincts, she can read people well, uses Ruby to put them at ease and her style gets people to talk to her. The main characters, while privileged and well off, are well intentioned, kind and not the spoiled type that Lords and Ladies tend to be in Golden Age stories. This was an interesting mystery that was well-plotted and really made me think. The nod to Murder on the Orient Express was interesting. There is an inkling of romance between Cressy and Alfred, so I am hoping something happens in future books. This was another wonderful addition to this series that will make you a fan of Cressida Fawcett and Ruby.
January 16, 2024
Cressida Fawcett has an eleven-hour train ride ahead of her. Someone has been killed and obviously, there is a killer on the train. While it seems very likely that the victim's wife was the killer, as she had means, motive and opportunity, Cressida is not quite convinced.
The locked-roomed trope is one of my favorites. With a speeding train, and only so many passengers, it was rather fun trying to guess the identity of the killer right along with Cressida.
Cressida is not just among strangers on the train ride, Detective Andrews and his partner Kirby are on the train as well. Perhaps with the three of them, they can figure out the killer before the train reaches its destination.
Death on the Scotland Express is the enjoyable fourth book in a delightful cozy mystery series. As a diehard series fanatic, I have enjoyed this series from the first book, Death Among the Diamonds. However, these cozy mysteries are written in such a way that they each serve well as standalone novels.
Besides being a cozy mystery, this is also a period piece, as the setting was during the early 1920s, and that makes this book and the rest of the series truly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The locked-roomed trope is one of my favorites. With a speeding train, and only so many passengers, it was rather fun trying to guess the identity of the killer right along with Cressida.
Cressida is not just among strangers on the train ride, Detective Andrews and his partner Kirby are on the train as well. Perhaps with the three of them, they can figure out the killer before the train reaches its destination.
Death on the Scotland Express is the enjoyable fourth book in a delightful cozy mystery series. As a diehard series fanatic, I have enjoyed this series from the first book, Death Among the Diamonds. However, these cozy mysteries are written in such a way that they each serve well as standalone novels.
Besides being a cozy mystery, this is also a period piece, as the setting was during the early 1920s, and that makes this book and the rest of the series truly enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
November 27, 2023
Death on the Scotland Express is the 4th book in the wonderful Cressida Fawcett series that I have devoured and is up there as one of my favourite cosy crime series.
The story carries on almost immediately following the last book and their adventures in Scotland as they are travelling back to London in the hope of a bit of rest and recouperation! When I say they, I of course mean, Cressida and her beloved pug Ruby and her best friend, Dotty (also known as Lady Dorothy) and Dotty’s brother Lord Alfred. I really like this trio of amateur sleuths and am happy that Dotty and Alfred are definitely part of the gang as Cressy’s faithful sidekicks. Also travelling back to London is Detective Andrews, who despite telling Cressida to not get involved with the cases that she always finds herself caught up on, knows that his warnings will fall on deaf ears and is usually actually quite grateful for her astute mind and help.
When a gunshot rings out quite early on in the journey, we know that Cressida won’t be able to resist investigating. The victim, a callous businessman has been shot and it isn’t long before a suspect has been arrested but to Cressy, it doesn’t quite sit right and she is determined to find out who the murderer really is. When the supposed murdered is also shot along with Detective Andrews sustaining a bullet to the arm, Cressy knows that she will need to get involved before anything further happens.
Cressy is a wonderful lead character and I love her astuteness. At the start of the book, she is sat with Ruby observing the different characters board the train and this obviously puts her in good stead for the investigation to come.
The fledgling romance with Alfred is also lovely to observe. If you know from the previous books, Cressy is very independent and although this is set in the 1920’s where women were definitely encouraged to marry, she will do nothing of the sort!
The investigation itself is very well written with plenty of red herrings that send you off in a completely different direction – I absolutely loved it and am looking forward to the next instalment already.
Highly recommended from me.
The story carries on almost immediately following the last book and their adventures in Scotland as they are travelling back to London in the hope of a bit of rest and recouperation! When I say they, I of course mean, Cressida and her beloved pug Ruby and her best friend, Dotty (also known as Lady Dorothy) and Dotty’s brother Lord Alfred. I really like this trio of amateur sleuths and am happy that Dotty and Alfred are definitely part of the gang as Cressy’s faithful sidekicks. Also travelling back to London is Detective Andrews, who despite telling Cressida to not get involved with the cases that she always finds herself caught up on, knows that his warnings will fall on deaf ears and is usually actually quite grateful for her astute mind and help.
When a gunshot rings out quite early on in the journey, we know that Cressida won’t be able to resist investigating. The victim, a callous businessman has been shot and it isn’t long before a suspect has been arrested but to Cressy, it doesn’t quite sit right and she is determined to find out who the murderer really is. When the supposed murdered is also shot along with Detective Andrews sustaining a bullet to the arm, Cressy knows that she will need to get involved before anything further happens.
Cressy is a wonderful lead character and I love her astuteness. At the start of the book, she is sat with Ruby observing the different characters board the train and this obviously puts her in good stead for the investigation to come.
The fledgling romance with Alfred is also lovely to observe. If you know from the previous books, Cressy is very independent and although this is set in the 1920’s where women were definitely encouraged to marry, she will do nothing of the sort!
The investigation itself is very well written with plenty of red herrings that send you off in a completely different direction – I absolutely loved it and am looking forward to the next instalment already.
Highly recommended from me.
October 27, 2023
Death on the Scotland Express is Book 4 of the Cressida Fawcett mysteries. This Is the only novel by Bliss Chester that I have read, but it is not necessary to have read the previous novels in this series. Death on the Scotland Express does stand alone as an easy, fast read. Chester makes liberal use of the Agatha Christie formula of a cast of suspects who all have reasons to have hated the victim and wanted him dead. Murder on an express train between Glasgow, Edinburgh, and London creates a literary play on the locked room mystery. All the possible suspects are on hand and all are wonderfully described, often with real humor.
Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard is also on the train, Andrews and constable Kirby are on hand to solve the murder, but they cannot do so without the help of Cressida, her friend Dotty, and Dotty's brother Alfred, who also provides some romantic interest. The 3 friends and the 2 law enforcement men all work together quite nicely. There is a lot of good humor to help mellow out any tension caused by the murder of a man who is so evil that readers will soon decide he deserved to be murdered. Almost all of the passengers have reason to have committed the murder, which means that Chester can keep readers guessing for quite a while.
Like every Christie murder, the setting is important, but readers also know the gathering of suspects in the train dining car is where all is revealed. Chester adds some nice complexity to the plot to give this cosy mystery more depth than is often found. While not everyone will enjoy this Golden Age mystery, most readers will find the characters likable. Stick with it and readers will learn that Crissy and her friends are not simply insipid spoiled wealthy characters as the opening chapters might suggest. These characters provided some nice complexity and fun. I do recommend Death on the Scotland Express. Thank you to the author, publisher, Bookouture, and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I did enjoy Death on the Scotland Express very much.
Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard is also on the train, Andrews and constable Kirby are on hand to solve the murder, but they cannot do so without the help of Cressida, her friend Dotty, and Dotty's brother Alfred, who also provides some romantic interest. The 3 friends and the 2 law enforcement men all work together quite nicely. There is a lot of good humor to help mellow out any tension caused by the murder of a man who is so evil that readers will soon decide he deserved to be murdered. Almost all of the passengers have reason to have committed the murder, which means that Chester can keep readers guessing for quite a while.
Like every Christie murder, the setting is important, but readers also know the gathering of suspects in the train dining car is where all is revealed. Chester adds some nice complexity to the plot to give this cosy mystery more depth than is often found. While not everyone will enjoy this Golden Age mystery, most readers will find the characters likable. Stick with it and readers will learn that Crissy and her friends are not simply insipid spoiled wealthy characters as the opening chapters might suggest. These characters provided some nice complexity and fun. I do recommend Death on the Scotland Express. Thank you to the author, publisher, Bookouture, and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review. I did enjoy Death on the Scotland Express very much.
November 26, 2023
A fun read.
I enjoyed this story, however I just wasn’t as invested in it as some of the previous books for one reason or another. However, the mystery itself was interesting (shades of Murder on the Orient Express if you’re wondering), and I liked that it took place in an enclosed location with a short time frame. My one small gripe is that Cressida’s nosiness and needing that instant gratification when it comes to knowing what Andrews knows - and before him if possible - does get rather tedious after four books. Still, I’m definitely going to pick up the next book as it sounds right up my alley.
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this story, however I just wasn’t as invested in it as some of the previous books for one reason or another. However, the mystery itself was interesting (shades of Murder on the Orient Express if you’re wondering), and I liked that it took place in an enclosed location with a short time frame. My one small gripe is that Cressida’s nosiness and needing that instant gratification when it comes to knowing what Andrews knows - and before him if possible - does get rather tedious after four books. Still, I’m definitely going to pick up the next book as it sounds right up my alley.
3.5 stars
April 9, 2025
Murder on a train always puts me off. Unfortunately, Murder on the Orient Express is to blame. There were very good bits and I did enjoy a good part of it, but still, it's Murder. On. A. Train. Just not my cup of tea. I'll listen to it again I'm sure when I go through for the 2nd round, but not my favorite so far.... Death by a Cornish Cove still holds that mark.
December 1, 2023
If you’ve followed along with my reviews, you know how much I enjoy Fliss Chester’s Cressida Fawcett mysteries. With Death on the Scotland Express, Chester gives us another delightful mystery to unravel!
Cressida, along with her best friend Dotty and Dotty’s brother Alfred, is on her way back to London, traveling on the Scotland Express. The trio’s trip to the Scottish Highlands was full of more excitement than anyone expected, and they’re all looking forward to a relaxing trip home. But things don’t stay quiet for long. Businessman Lewis Warriner, who had been confronted by his wife as he was traveling with another woman, is shot dead in his cabin shortly after the train departs.
Detective Andrews is also on the train and on the case. But he’s smart enough to know that Cressida has access to information that people might be reluctant to share with a policeman, so he accepts her help in investigating. Mrs. Warriner is soon tagged as the prime suspect when a gun is found in her train compartment. But when she and Detective Andrews are also shot, it’s up to Cressida to bring all the loose ends together before the train reaches its destination.
This was a fabulous read! It’s another locked-room mystery, as the murder takes place after the train has departed, and there’s no stopping until they return to London. The closed environment adds tension, because anyone on the train could be the killer, and could kill again. The tension is compounded by the time constraint on the investigation. If the killer isn’t identified before everyone leaves the train, they could very well walk free.
Ruby the pug is, as always, a charming part of the story. She is often part of Cressida’s methods of gaining information, and always a good conversation starter. I mean, who can resist an adorable pug?
And if you’ve kept up with the series, you know Cressy is very much not marriage-minded. She’s always enjoyed her independence. But here we see her wrestling with some unaccustomed feelings when Alfred makes it clear that he cares for her as more than just his sister’s best friend. We also get to see a little glimpse of maternal instinct when Cressy finds herself trying to comfort Monty, a young noble whose nanny has mysteriously disappeared (and she has to deal with the fact that boys’ fingers will find their noses from time to time!). It will be entertaining to see what direction the budding romance between Cressy and Alfred takes, and Monty’s antics had me positively chuckling. (Boy mom here. Noble or not, young boys are in many ways all alike!)
The mystery itself had plenty of twists and turns and red herrings to chase. There was no shortage of suspects, and when the big reveal came, it wasn’t one I was really expecting. I won’t say any more than that. I’ll let you get the book and read and have the joy of discovering it for yourself.
Fliss Chester has given us another excellent adventure on the Scotland Express. I can’t wait to see what Cressida and crew get up to next!
Cressida, along with her best friend Dotty and Dotty’s brother Alfred, is on her way back to London, traveling on the Scotland Express. The trio’s trip to the Scottish Highlands was full of more excitement than anyone expected, and they’re all looking forward to a relaxing trip home. But things don’t stay quiet for long. Businessman Lewis Warriner, who had been confronted by his wife as he was traveling with another woman, is shot dead in his cabin shortly after the train departs.
Detective Andrews is also on the train and on the case. But he’s smart enough to know that Cressida has access to information that people might be reluctant to share with a policeman, so he accepts her help in investigating. Mrs. Warriner is soon tagged as the prime suspect when a gun is found in her train compartment. But when she and Detective Andrews are also shot, it’s up to Cressida to bring all the loose ends together before the train reaches its destination.
This was a fabulous read! It’s another locked-room mystery, as the murder takes place after the train has departed, and there’s no stopping until they return to London. The closed environment adds tension, because anyone on the train could be the killer, and could kill again. The tension is compounded by the time constraint on the investigation. If the killer isn’t identified before everyone leaves the train, they could very well walk free.
Ruby the pug is, as always, a charming part of the story. She is often part of Cressida’s methods of gaining information, and always a good conversation starter. I mean, who can resist an adorable pug?
And if you’ve kept up with the series, you know Cressy is very much not marriage-minded. She’s always enjoyed her independence. But here we see her wrestling with some unaccustomed feelings when Alfred makes it clear that he cares for her as more than just his sister’s best friend. We also get to see a little glimpse of maternal instinct when Cressy finds herself trying to comfort Monty, a young noble whose nanny has mysteriously disappeared (and she has to deal with the fact that boys’ fingers will find their noses from time to time!). It will be entertaining to see what direction the budding romance between Cressy and Alfred takes, and Monty’s antics had me positively chuckling. (Boy mom here. Noble or not, young boys are in many ways all alike!)
The mystery itself had plenty of twists and turns and red herrings to chase. There was no shortage of suspects, and when the big reveal came, it wasn’t one I was really expecting. I won’t say any more than that. I’ll let you get the book and read and have the joy of discovering it for yourself.
Fliss Chester has given us another excellent adventure on the Scotland Express. I can’t wait to see what Cressida and crew get up to next!
November 30, 2023
“Cressida beamed at him. ‘That’s the spirit. And you never know, Andrews, three aristocratic noses might end up being even better than one.”
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Death on the Scotland Express’ by Fliss Chester. I was invited to take part in the publication week blog tour.
This is Book 4 in Chester’s series of historical cosy mysteries set in Britain during the mid-1920s. I have read all of the previous books and while it is fine as a standalone, I appreciated reading them in order for the character development.
The Hon. Cressida Fawcett is an independently minded young woman. While she has no need to work, Cressida has a keen interest in interior design and is often consulted on the subject by members of high society. In recent months she has also become something of an amateur sleuth as murders and country estates seem to go hand in hand in this type of Golden Age style mystery.
This novel takes place days after Cressida, accompanied by her best friend, Dotty (Lady Dorothy Chatterton), and Dotty’s brother, Alfred, had solved the mystery chronicled in ‘Death in the Highlands’. Now the three are travelling home to London on the Scotland Express.
Cressida is enjoying a martini in the lounge car when a gunshot resounds through the carriages. It is revealed that a fellow passenger has been shot dead. As this is an express train, the culprit must be among Cressida’s fellow passengers…
Cressida teams up with D.C.I. Andrews of Scotland Yard, who is also on board. They question the various suspects seeking to uncover the truth. When the murder weapon is found it seems that they have identified the murderer. Then there’s another gunshot, throwing the investigation into turmoil. Cressida struggles to stay calm. Can she solve the murder before they reach their destination?
An express train is a great place to set a locked room mystery, especially an express train as it heightens the sense of claustrophobia and keeps the suspect pool contained.
It seems that D.C.I. Andrews, who is a friend of Cressida’s father, is becoming more receptive to accepting Cressida’s help. Given the social structure of the period, her being an aristocrat does mean that those of her class are more receptive to answering her questions.
It’s also nice to see some of Cressida’s barriers coming down as she starts looking at Alfred with more favour. Is a romance on the cards? I am glad that Fliss Chester is taking her time developing this aspect of the ongoing story.
Overall, I found ‘Death on the Scotland Express’ another successful whodunnit that contained some delightful twists. I enjoyed the mention of the Orient Express, which seemed to be a gentle tip of the hat in the direction of Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery.
My thanks to Bookouture for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Death on the Scotland Express’ by Fliss Chester. I was invited to take part in the publication week blog tour.
This is Book 4 in Chester’s series of historical cosy mysteries set in Britain during the mid-1920s. I have read all of the previous books and while it is fine as a standalone, I appreciated reading them in order for the character development.
The Hon. Cressida Fawcett is an independently minded young woman. While she has no need to work, Cressida has a keen interest in interior design and is often consulted on the subject by members of high society. In recent months she has also become something of an amateur sleuth as murders and country estates seem to go hand in hand in this type of Golden Age style mystery.
This novel takes place days after Cressida, accompanied by her best friend, Dotty (Lady Dorothy Chatterton), and Dotty’s brother, Alfred, had solved the mystery chronicled in ‘Death in the Highlands’. Now the three are travelling home to London on the Scotland Express.
Cressida is enjoying a martini in the lounge car when a gunshot resounds through the carriages. It is revealed that a fellow passenger has been shot dead. As this is an express train, the culprit must be among Cressida’s fellow passengers…
Cressida teams up with D.C.I. Andrews of Scotland Yard, who is also on board. They question the various suspects seeking to uncover the truth. When the murder weapon is found it seems that they have identified the murderer. Then there’s another gunshot, throwing the investigation into turmoil. Cressida struggles to stay calm. Can she solve the murder before they reach their destination?
An express train is a great place to set a locked room mystery, especially an express train as it heightens the sense of claustrophobia and keeps the suspect pool contained.
It seems that D.C.I. Andrews, who is a friend of Cressida’s father, is becoming more receptive to accepting Cressida’s help. Given the social structure of the period, her being an aristocrat does mean that those of her class are more receptive to answering her questions.
It’s also nice to see some of Cressida’s barriers coming down as she starts looking at Alfred with more favour. Is a romance on the cards? I am glad that Fliss Chester is taking her time developing this aspect of the ongoing story.
Overall, I found ‘Death on the Scotland Express’ another successful whodunnit that contained some delightful twists. I enjoyed the mention of the Orient Express, which seemed to be a gentle tip of the hat in the direction of Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery.
November 20, 2023
Cressy's Adventures Continue!
Fresh off her adventures in Death in the Highlands, the Honorable Cressida Fawcett (Cressy to her friends) and her BFF Lady Dorthy Chatterton along with Dotty’s brother Alfred, Lord Dealafield, and Cressy’s adorable pug Ruby are returning to London from Scotland aboard the Scotland Express. Cressy is people watching, picking out a brother - sister pair of passengers, noticing the glamorous red suede shoes of another passenger, and finally watching a mysterious woman clad in black just make the train. However, after the events of the previous few days, she’s looking for a peaceful trip.
(Cressy, it should be mentioned, is an independent woman, content with Ruby, and not interested in getting married. In the least.)
That peace is soon interrupted when the woman in black confronts her husband who is traveling with the glamorous woman (and sharing a sleeping compartment! the scandal!) in the dining car. That peace is further destroyed moments later when a gunshot leads to the cheating husband being found dead. The wife is the obvious suspect, but Cressy doesn’t think she did it. Fortunately her pet inspector, who’s been involved in her three previous cases, is also traveling to London on the same train and is quickly summoned. While he arrests the wife, Cressy starts asking questions. It appears everyone except the bartender had a motive for killing the victim. The question, of course, who did? And will Cressy finally make up her mind about Alfred?
I adore Cressida! I’ve read the previous books, and I think this one is my favorite. I’m a fan of Golden Age mysteries in general, so loved the homage to Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express (mild spoiler: no, they didn’t all do it this time). I really enjoyed how the book was set up - limited time frame (so they had to solve the case before morning), small set of suspects, DCI Andrews being realistically available, and of course lots of motives. In the earlier books, there’s lots of hints about Cressy doing something crazy, and there’s a few examples in this book. While this is the fourth book in the series, I think there’s enough background information about the characters (without being overwhelming) to be a stand alone.
Highly recommended! Can’t wait for the next book and the possible inclusion of a couple of new regulars!
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com and that I voluntarily chose to review.
Fresh off her adventures in Death in the Highlands, the Honorable Cressida Fawcett (Cressy to her friends) and her BFF Lady Dorthy Chatterton along with Dotty’s brother Alfred, Lord Dealafield, and Cressy’s adorable pug Ruby are returning to London from Scotland aboard the Scotland Express. Cressy is people watching, picking out a brother - sister pair of passengers, noticing the glamorous red suede shoes of another passenger, and finally watching a mysterious woman clad in black just make the train. However, after the events of the previous few days, she’s looking for a peaceful trip.
(Cressy, it should be mentioned, is an independent woman, content with Ruby, and not interested in getting married. In the least.)
That peace is soon interrupted when the woman in black confronts her husband who is traveling with the glamorous woman (and sharing a sleeping compartment! the scandal!) in the dining car. That peace is further destroyed moments later when a gunshot leads to the cheating husband being found dead. The wife is the obvious suspect, but Cressy doesn’t think she did it. Fortunately her pet inspector, who’s been involved in her three previous cases, is also traveling to London on the same train and is quickly summoned. While he arrests the wife, Cressy starts asking questions. It appears everyone except the bartender had a motive for killing the victim. The question, of course, who did? And will Cressy finally make up her mind about Alfred?
I adore Cressida! I’ve read the previous books, and I think this one is my favorite. I’m a fan of Golden Age mysteries in general, so loved the homage to Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express (mild spoiler: no, they didn’t all do it this time). I really enjoyed how the book was set up - limited time frame (so they had to solve the case before morning), small set of suspects, DCI Andrews being realistically available, and of course lots of motives. In the earlier books, there’s lots of hints about Cressy doing something crazy, and there’s a few examples in this book. While this is the fourth book in the series, I think there’s enough background information about the characters (without being overwhelming) to be a stand alone.
Highly recommended! Can’t wait for the next book and the possible inclusion of a couple of new regulars!
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.com and that I voluntarily chose to review.
November 12, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Death on the Scotland Express, the fourth novel to feature socialite and amateur sleuth the Honourable Cressida Fawcett, set on the Inverness to London sleeper in the 1920s.
Cressida and her friends, Dorothy and Alfred, are returning home from an eventful stay in the Highlands and have just settled in to a reviving cocktail at the bar when they hear a gunshot, industrialist Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. Cressida is happy to leave much of the investigating to DCI Andrews, until she hears more gunshots and Andrews is hit.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death on the Scotland Express, which is a fun read with multiple suspects and a few twists. I wouldn’t say that it has the most suspenseful of plots as much of it is easily guessable, but that’s hardly the point. It’s all about the fun and following Cressida’s thought processes as she puts together the clues.
The novel is well put together with a stream of discoveries and reveals to keep the reader turning the pages and an artless protagonist who makes turning those pages fun. With the initial victim, Warriner, being rich, unscrupulous and nasty there is no end of suspects for the murder, most apparently lured on to the train by his presence and their own motives for having a go. In these the novel’s catchphrase “cherchez l’argent” appears apt, for, as ever, the answer lies in the past.
The novel is told from Cressida’s point of view, so the reader gets up close and personal with her thoughts. As an independent woman, well, apart from her allowance, she has no wish to get married, preferring to lavish her emotions on her Bugatti, her social life and her pug, the inestimable Ruby, so she will be suppressing the funny feelings and tingling she gets around Alfred. Instead she is concentrating her mind on finding a murderer, which she does admirably by piecing together odd clues and asking salient questions.
Death on the Scotland Express is a fun read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Cressida and her friends, Dorothy and Alfred, are returning home from an eventful stay in the Highlands and have just settled in to a reviving cocktail at the bar when they hear a gunshot, industrialist Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. Cressida is happy to leave much of the investigating to DCI Andrews, until she hears more gunshots and Andrews is hit.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death on the Scotland Express, which is a fun read with multiple suspects and a few twists. I wouldn’t say that it has the most suspenseful of plots as much of it is easily guessable, but that’s hardly the point. It’s all about the fun and following Cressida’s thought processes as she puts together the clues.
The novel is well put together with a stream of discoveries and reveals to keep the reader turning the pages and an artless protagonist who makes turning those pages fun. With the initial victim, Warriner, being rich, unscrupulous and nasty there is no end of suspects for the murder, most apparently lured on to the train by his presence and their own motives for having a go. In these the novel’s catchphrase “cherchez l’argent” appears apt, for, as ever, the answer lies in the past.
The novel is told from Cressida’s point of view, so the reader gets up close and personal with her thoughts. As an independent woman, well, apart from her allowance, she has no wish to get married, preferring to lavish her emotions on her Bugatti, her social life and her pug, the inestimable Ruby, so she will be suppressing the funny feelings and tingling she gets around Alfred. Instead she is concentrating her mind on finding a murderer, which she does admirably by piecing together odd clues and asking salient questions.
Death on the Scotland Express is a fun read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 27, 2023
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this Advance Reader Copy and the opportunity to review Death on the Scotland Express. All opinions and comments are my own.
A dead man in the prologue – let’s get the murder out of the way, right away in Death on the Scotland Express, the fourth in the 1920’s-era “Cressida Fawcett, Hon” series by Fliss Chester. Along with her friends Lady Dorothy Chatterton and Alfred Chatterton, Lord Delafield (and Ruby the pug), Cress is heading south on the Scotland Express, going home after the tumultuous events in Death in the Highlands. And now she’ll have another murder to solve, something she’s rather good at, while looking exceedingly glamorous at the same time. Ruby will get in her two barks too, of course.
Luckily, DCI Andrews is on board -- pretty convenient. He’ll be able to take up this case right away. Immediately, he tells Cress to leave it to him and his Sergeant Kirby HA HA HA. I guess writers include this for old time’s sake or something, I dunno. Because they must know that readers know that these “book people” are totally going to ignore this admonition. Perish the thought. On with the show.
The murdered man’s wronged wife is the immediate suspect; handy, that. But our author has given us a train-full of shady characters (and great characterization), so there’s a lot to work with. Our Honorable pieces it all together, with a credible “drawing room” scene that sees the determined amateur detective bringing an end to the case -- in between Gin Rickeys.
Death on the Scotland Express is an entertaining tale, heavy on Bright Young Things, light on soul-searching. And I’m quite okay with that. If I want doom and gloom, I’ll open up the news. (An Author’s note explains the artistic license employed to bring the story to life.) Instead, I’ll just check and see what (fictional) mischief Cressida Fawcett and her pals are getting up to. Author Fliss Chester has plenty in mind, I’m sure.
A dead man in the prologue – let’s get the murder out of the way, right away in Death on the Scotland Express, the fourth in the 1920’s-era “Cressida Fawcett, Hon” series by Fliss Chester. Along with her friends Lady Dorothy Chatterton and Alfred Chatterton, Lord Delafield (and Ruby the pug), Cress is heading south on the Scotland Express, going home after the tumultuous events in Death in the Highlands. And now she’ll have another murder to solve, something she’s rather good at, while looking exceedingly glamorous at the same time. Ruby will get in her two barks too, of course.
Luckily, DCI Andrews is on board -- pretty convenient. He’ll be able to take up this case right away. Immediately, he tells Cress to leave it to him and his Sergeant Kirby HA HA HA. I guess writers include this for old time’s sake or something, I dunno. Because they must know that readers know that these “book people” are totally going to ignore this admonition. Perish the thought. On with the show.
The murdered man’s wronged wife is the immediate suspect; handy, that. But our author has given us a train-full of shady characters (and great characterization), so there’s a lot to work with. Our Honorable pieces it all together, with a credible “drawing room” scene that sees the determined amateur detective bringing an end to the case -- in between Gin Rickeys.
Death on the Scotland Express is an entertaining tale, heavy on Bright Young Things, light on soul-searching. And I’m quite okay with that. If I want doom and gloom, I’ll open up the news. (An Author’s note explains the artistic license employed to bring the story to life.) Instead, I’ll just check and see what (fictional) mischief Cressida Fawcett and her pals are getting up to. Author Fliss Chester has plenty in mind, I’m sure.
December 15, 2023
Hours after solving a murder, Cressida and her friend Dotty are heading back south when a man is shot dead. His wife is the obvious suspect but Cressy is sure that someone else is to blame. ..
Death on the Scotland Express is the fourth book to feature Cressida Fawcett and DCI Andrews. It follows on directly from the previous book, Death in the Highlands, but there are no spoilers about the plot outcome.
Cressy and Dotty are hoping for a relaxing trip back home, but this dream is shattered by the resounding bang of a gunshot. The victim was a businessman who was also a serial adulterer and was on board the train with his latest mistress. His wife was also a passenger and is the natural prime suspect. DCI Andrews certainly thinks so but Cressida has some doubts and cannot resist investigating once again.
I loved the setting of a steam train and was reminded of the majestic Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. There was plenty of mystery and red herrings even within the limited setting and range of suspects. The murder happens quite early on so Cressida is straight into action despite still bearing the injuries from her last murder investigation just hours earlier.
The book has a wonderfully light touch to the tone with gentle humour. Cressy's dog Ruby offers light relief as well as spotting clues. The historical setting is brought to life and the train journey was vividly imagined, both being well researched by the author.
Death on the Scotland Express is an enjoyable murder mystery with a vivacious amateur detective.
Death on the Scotland Express is the fourth book to feature Cressida Fawcett and DCI Andrews. It follows on directly from the previous book, Death in the Highlands, but there are no spoilers about the plot outcome.
Cressy and Dotty are hoping for a relaxing trip back home, but this dream is shattered by the resounding bang of a gunshot. The victim was a businessman who was also a serial adulterer and was on board the train with his latest mistress. His wife was also a passenger and is the natural prime suspect. DCI Andrews certainly thinks so but Cressida has some doubts and cannot resist investigating once again.
I loved the setting of a steam train and was reminded of the majestic Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. There was plenty of mystery and red herrings even within the limited setting and range of suspects. The murder happens quite early on so Cressida is straight into action despite still bearing the injuries from her last murder investigation just hours earlier.
The book has a wonderfully light touch to the tone with gentle humour. Cressy's dog Ruby offers light relief as well as spotting clues. The historical setting is brought to life and the train journey was vividly imagined, both being well researched by the author.
Death on the Scotland Express is an enjoyable murder mystery with a vivacious amateur detective.
November 1, 2023
The setting is 1920 and a train. We find Cressida Fawcett and her adorable Pug Ruby are on their way home to London from the highlands Scotland. She is accompanied by her friends Dotty and Alfed. Their hopes for an uneventful but pleasant train trip are dashed when a successful businessman Lewis Warriner, Warriner was travelling with his mistress, but his wife boarded the train and publicly confronted him. A short while later a gunshot was heard and Warriner was found dead with the wife nearby. Our favorite law enforcement is aboard, DCI Andrews and Officer Kirby, and they take charge of the incident. After finding the gun in the scorned wife's compartment they think they have their suspect. Cressida is not sure and before long is deep into investigating with no shortage of suspects. Everyone on the train seems to have a reason to hate our victim.
There are secrets, disguises, and plenty of red herrings. The story does have Christie vibes, but it is a well-crafted mystery with twists and turns. It kept me guessing until the end. This is the 4th installment of this series, and I am so looking forward to the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read this and give my honest opinion.
There are secrets, disguises, and plenty of red herrings. The story does have Christie vibes, but it is a well-crafted mystery with twists and turns. It kept me guessing until the end. This is the 4th installment of this series, and I am so looking forward to the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to read this and give my honest opinion.
November 21, 2023
After an eventful trip to the Scottish Highlands, Cressida Fawcett is looking forward to being back among her society friends in London. But Cressida’s hopes for a relaxing journey are dashed when a gunshot resounds through the carriages. Industrial tycoon Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. Teaming up with Detective Andrews of Scotland Yard, also on his way back to London, they work their way through the suspects. When the murder weapon is found in the compartment Mr Warriner’s wife occupies alone, she becomes the chief suspect. Until there’s another gunshot. When Cressida finds out that Andrews is hit, panic sets in, but she must try to stay calm.
The fourth book in the series & whilst it’s easily read on its I own I do like how the characters & relationships have developed throughout the series. I do like Cressida & thoroughly enjoyed this latest addition to the series. There are a limited number of suspects & also time restraints as the train hurtles on it journey. My interest was held all the way through, there were twists & turns as well as red herrings. I found it to be a fun & entertaining murder mystery & look forward to more to come
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fourth book in the series & whilst it’s easily read on its I own I do like how the characters & relationships have developed throughout the series. I do like Cressida & thoroughly enjoyed this latest addition to the series. There are a limited number of suspects & also time restraints as the train hurtles on it journey. My interest was held all the way through, there were twists & turns as well as red herrings. I found it to be a fun & entertaining murder mystery & look forward to more to come
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 28, 2023
Cressida and Co are back and it's time for another 1920s adventure!
On the train journey home after their latest exploits in the Highlands, Cressida, Dotty, Alfred (and Ruby the Pug) are centre stage when another murder occurs. Cressida cannot help but get them involved - even with good old Inspector Andrews on the train too.
Think Murder on the Orient Express, except our train is going from the Highlands to London. Skeevy tycoon, Lewis Warriner who has been stepping out on his wife is dead and now a host of other shady characters are the suspects.
There is the gentle, but very class ridden humour, you'd expect from novels/movies set during this time. Ruby provides much of the comic relief and as usual the official Detectives are slower to catch up than our effervescent amateur!
The main characters could be stodgy, staid and unpleasant but they are actually quite kind and empathetic and you actually kind of forget that their Lords and Ladies and Honourables half the time. The little bloom of attraction between Cressida and Alfred is really sweet, especially with out very independent Cressy well-known to be anti-marriage.
Can't wait to see what disaster befalls them next!
On the train journey home after their latest exploits in the Highlands, Cressida, Dotty, Alfred (and Ruby the Pug) are centre stage when another murder occurs. Cressida cannot help but get them involved - even with good old Inspector Andrews on the train too.
Think Murder on the Orient Express, except our train is going from the Highlands to London. Skeevy tycoon, Lewis Warriner who has been stepping out on his wife is dead and now a host of other shady characters are the suspects.
There is the gentle, but very class ridden humour, you'd expect from novels/movies set during this time. Ruby provides much of the comic relief and as usual the official Detectives are slower to catch up than our effervescent amateur!
The main characters could be stodgy, staid and unpleasant but they are actually quite kind and empathetic and you actually kind of forget that their Lords and Ladies and Honourables half the time. The little bloom of attraction between Cressida and Alfred is really sweet, especially with out very independent Cressy well-known to be anti-marriage.
Can't wait to see what disaster befalls them next!
November 28, 2023
I think that these books just get better with every one I read. I certainly fall more in love with the characters.
This time we join Cressida and her friends as they return from their visit to the highlands in previous book Death in the Highlands and it isn't long before she finds herself in the midst of another mystery.
I love all of the side characters in this book; from her best friend Dorothy to her pet pug Ruby. I do have a real soft spot for Alfred, who Cressida also seems to be developing much more of a soft spot for too.
This is very much a classic-style murder mystery, with all of our suspects in one place on an overnight sleeper train. The action all takes place over the course of 24 hours, but it doesn't seem rushed. I managed to figure out quite a lot of the murder mystery, but there were still a few things that caught me out.
I love this series and can't wait for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
This time we join Cressida and her friends as they return from their visit to the highlands in previous book Death in the Highlands and it isn't long before she finds herself in the midst of another mystery.
I love all of the side characters in this book; from her best friend Dorothy to her pet pug Ruby. I do have a real soft spot for Alfred, who Cressida also seems to be developing much more of a soft spot for too.
This is very much a classic-style murder mystery, with all of our suspects in one place on an overnight sleeper train. The action all takes place over the course of 24 hours, but it doesn't seem rushed. I managed to figure out quite a lot of the murder mystery, but there were still a few things that caught me out.
I love this series and can't wait for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
November 29, 2023
As soon as I read the blurb for the latest Cressida Fawcett mystery I knew I had to hop on board (pub intended). I LOVE a good train mystery and this one really served up a great story and adventure. A bonus was that Cressida, her pup Ruby, and her friends were travelling from Scotland to London, which is a train journey that is near the top of my bucket list.
Cressida is in top form in this story and I had a great time trying to work out who the killer was in the this quick-paced mystery. The stakes are raised when there’s a shooting on the train and our sleuth must work even faster to keep everyone safe.
This series is full of charm – the characters are fun and witty, the dialogue is crisp and fun, and the mystery (and the solution) is always a delight. I like how Cressida works with Detective Andrews (who always seems to be in the right place at the right time) and this is one cozy mystery series that I can’t get enough of.
Of course, the title and setting of Death on the Scotland Express was highly reminiscent of one of my favourite books – Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. This one has it’s own unique twists and red herrings and was an absolutely delight to read and I can’t wait for further adventures with Cressida and Ruby!
*** Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-copy of this book
Cressida is in top form in this story and I had a great time trying to work out who the killer was in the this quick-paced mystery. The stakes are raised when there’s a shooting on the train and our sleuth must work even faster to keep everyone safe.
This series is full of charm – the characters are fun and witty, the dialogue is crisp and fun, and the mystery (and the solution) is always a delight. I like how Cressida works with Detective Andrews (who always seems to be in the right place at the right time) and this is one cozy mystery series that I can’t get enough of.
Of course, the title and setting of Death on the Scotland Express was highly reminiscent of one of my favourite books – Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. This one has it’s own unique twists and red herrings and was an absolutely delight to read and I can’t wait for further adventures with Cressida and Ruby!
*** Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an e-copy of this book
December 7, 2023
This cozy series is very entertaining when you want straight forward stories in a pleasant setting with varied, invariably a sprinkle of eccentric characters. This was one such a read.
Cressida the Hon is the way she introduces herself (bit strange right there) is with friends returning to London along with her pug Ruby who plays a leading role in the story. One murder whilst on a train journey is bad enough but when second one is attempted and two people injured, one rather badly, we know the murderer is on the train. Cressida’s good friend Detective Andrew’s and his able assistant Kirby are coincidentally on the same train and now that the chief suspect is shot, they all have to look elsewhere for the murder suspect.
Told in a very easy style though the timing is just a train journey from Scotland to London we are taken along the ride with deduction and detective skills in full force.
Nicely told, relaxing read.
Cressida the Hon is the way she introduces herself (bit strange right there) is with friends returning to London along with her pug Ruby who plays a leading role in the story. One murder whilst on a train journey is bad enough but when second one is attempted and two people injured, one rather badly, we know the murderer is on the train. Cressida’s good friend Detective Andrew’s and his able assistant Kirby are coincidentally on the same train and now that the chief suspect is shot, they all have to look elsewhere for the murder suspect.
Told in a very easy style though the timing is just a train journey from Scotland to London we are taken along the ride with deduction and detective skills in full force.
Nicely told, relaxing read.
December 5, 2023
Murder on the Scotland Express
Cressida Fawcett and her best friends are on the train from the Highlands to London. They were barely underway before there is a murder. Luckily, a Scotland Yard Inspector is on the train. Cressida had helped Inspector Andrews find a murderer a few days before. He doesn’t like her investigating but is aware she notices details.
DCI Andrew’s arrests the wife of the victim because the gun is found under her mattress and she had motive as the neglected wife but Cressida thinks she is being framed. Will Cressy figure it out before they arrive in London?
The author has an easy writing style. The story flows smoothly and is an interesting whodunit. This is the fourth book in the Cressida Fawcett mystery series. I did enjoy this book and would be interested in reading more of her work.
Cressida Fawcett and her best friends are on the train from the Highlands to London. They were barely underway before there is a murder. Luckily, a Scotland Yard Inspector is on the train. Cressida had helped Inspector Andrews find a murderer a few days before. He doesn’t like her investigating but is aware she notices details.
DCI Andrew’s arrests the wife of the victim because the gun is found under her mattress and she had motive as the neglected wife but Cressida thinks she is being framed. Will Cressy figure it out before they arrive in London?
The author has an easy writing style. The story flows smoothly and is an interesting whodunit. This is the fourth book in the Cressida Fawcett mystery series. I did enjoy this book and would be interested in reading more of her work.
December 4, 2023
This book was my first introduction to Cressida Fawcett and her devoted dog, Ruby, and I thought it was quite charming! She has to solve a murder on the express train - a la Agatha Christie - and sort it out before they arrive back to London.
Fliss Chester does a great job sketching out her characters in bold, broad strokes. I appreciated being able to jump into the series and get to know the characters without having to have read the series form the beginning. I thought the mystery was well developed, and it kept me on my toes trying to decipher whodunnit. The moments of romance didn’t really capture me; nor were they fleshed out very much. Aside from that, and a few moments that seemed a bit didactic, this was a great read.
Fliss Chester does a great job sketching out her characters in bold, broad strokes. I appreciated being able to jump into the series and get to know the characters without having to have read the series form the beginning. I thought the mystery was well developed, and it kept me on my toes trying to decipher whodunnit. The moments of romance didn’t really capture me; nor were they fleshed out very much. Aside from that, and a few moments that seemed a bit didactic, this was a great read.
November 14, 2023
On an express train back from the Scottish Highlands, Cressida Fawcett's trip to London is disrupted by a gunshot and murder. She joins Detective Andrews to find the killer among the passengers. When Andrews is injured, Cressida must steer the investigation alone. Battling rising panic, she races to apprehend the murderer before the train reaches its final destination.
This is a cute and humorous cozy mystery that Agatha Christie fans will relate to. It's fairly low-angst with an engaging mystery and some heartwarming moments.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is a cute and humorous cozy mystery that Agatha Christie fans will relate to. It's fairly low-angst with an engaging mystery and some heartwarming moments.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 26, 2023
I have so enjoyed Fliss Chester’s books but mysteries that have a limited cast of suspects and everyone trapped (in a train, or in a manor, etc.) are not my favourite. “Death on the Scotland Express” is exactly that, the person killed isn’t a surprise and neither is the guilty party which makes for a slow book. The leading characters and the writing style redeem the novel and makes it an enjoyable read. I will be picking up the next one! It’s a four out of five on the enjoyment scale.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 11, 2024
A Complicated Train Ride
Cressida and company are rushing to London with one corpse and a trainful of suspects. Cressida, of course, snoops and meddles. Ruby gives invaluable assistance. Alfred and Dotty are there,too. Cressida even has to cope with a grubby nine-year-old. There’s a “gather all the suspects“ for Cressida to force a confession scene at the end.
I particularly enjoyed that the murder made sense and I could believe the guilty plotted and executed the murder. Cressida probably wouldn’t be allowed to flit around the train questioning suspects but that’s what makes it a fun cosy.
Cressida and company are rushing to London with one corpse and a trainful of suspects. Cressida, of course, snoops and meddles. Ruby gives invaluable assistance. Alfred and Dotty are there,too. Cressida even has to cope with a grubby nine-year-old. There’s a “gather all the suspects“ for Cressida to force a confession scene at the end.
I particularly enjoyed that the murder made sense and I could believe the guilty plotted and executed the murder. Cressida probably wouldn’t be allowed to flit around the train questioning suspects but that’s what makes it a fun cosy.
December 1, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you Bookouture for inviting me to be part of the Books on Tour for “Death on the Scotland Express”. If you liked “Murder on the Orient Express” and you like Agatha Christie, this book is for you!
Cressida Fawcett is traveling with her friends, on the way back from a murder, when there’s another murder on the train. The friends have to work together to catch the right person before the train arrives at the station. This is my first book by Fliss Chester, but it won’t be my last.
This book will have you flipping the pages so fast to see what happens. If you are looking for a cozy mystery that is filled with action, this book is for you. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#DeathontheScotlandExpress #FlissChester #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #BooksSetInScotland #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks
Thank you Bookouture for inviting me to be part of the Books on Tour for “Death on the Scotland Express”. If you liked “Murder on the Orient Express” and you like Agatha Christie, this book is for you!
Cressida Fawcett is traveling with her friends, on the way back from a murder, when there’s another murder on the train. The friends have to work together to catch the right person before the train arrives at the station. This is my first book by Fliss Chester, but it won’t be my last.
This book will have you flipping the pages so fast to see what happens. If you are looking for a cozy mystery that is filled with action, this book is for you. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#DeathontheScotlandExpress #FlissChester #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #BooksSetInScotland #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks
November 30, 2023
A fun story
What’s better than a weekend house party?
How about an overnight train trip from Inverness to London with a murder, lots of suspects, and Cressida Fawcett?
This new installment includes the whole crew - Cressida, Dottie, Alfred, Andrews, and Kirby - and enough train drivers and engineers, tea ladies, a really nasty Scottish business man, the inevitable club dancer hoping to get to Hollywood, the scorned wife — and so much more!
Secure your ticket to London, book a wagon lit compartment, fill up on tea and cakes and just enjoy.
What’s better than a weekend house party?
How about an overnight train trip from Inverness to London with a murder, lots of suspects, and Cressida Fawcett?
This new installment includes the whole crew - Cressida, Dottie, Alfred, Andrews, and Kirby - and enough train drivers and engineers, tea ladies, a really nasty Scottish business man, the inevitable club dancer hoping to get to Hollywood, the scorned wife — and so much more!
Secure your ticket to London, book a wagon lit compartment, fill up on tea and cakes and just enjoy.
December 10, 2023
This is a lovely historical mystery series. The combination of Cressida, Alfred and Dotty is one I enjoy. However, this time the balance just seemed a bit off for me and the storyline wasn't one that resonated for me,, though it certainly had some interesting twists. Perhaps just one too many coincidences, I'm not sure.
It's the fourth story in the series and it's three out of five stars for me.
My thanks to #Netgalley and Bookouture for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
It's the fourth story in the series and it's three out of five stars for me.
My thanks to #Netgalley and Bookouture for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
February 22, 2025
This series feels too juvenile for my taste—I much prefer the author's Fen Churche series. It's a quick, low-investment read, perfect for a doctor’s waiting room or a short train ride. But I wouldn’t dream of carrying this on vacation or a long flight. I did read quite a few in the series, mostly out of curiosity about the romance between Cressida and Alfred, which finally seems to gain some traction in Murder at the Mayfair. However, I’ve now decided—enough. No more Cressida Fawcett for me.
A quick aside: I also find Lady Hardcastle and sidekick mysteries a tad exhausting, but once you get used to the rambling repartee (they had less TV, yada yada, so they took longer to speak and did so entertainingly), it becomes a fair read. The Atalanta Ashford series, meanwhile, is an obvious copy of both.
Of course, cozy mysteries require some suspension of disbelief, but Cressida truly takes the cake. She’s the ultimate take-charge heroine, dazzling everyone with her sleuthing prowess in the final pages. I appreciate smart and bold female protagonists who use their wits, but…
Yes, the upper classes of the 1920s wielded significant influence over the masses—and the police. Law enforcement procedures lacked the technical sophistication we’re accustomed to today. But Cressida constantly orders the police around, barking out obvious instructions (“Secure the doors! Batten the hatches!”), while somehow managing to be everywhere at once in these time-sensitive mysteries (Death on the Scotland Express, Murder at the Mayfair). She conveniently stumbles across key clues while the police drag out their interviews and bumble about, often sidelined by circumstance (Death on the Scotland Express). Worse, she frequently withholds information from them, which I find morally questionable.
Even though the two main recurring police characters are written with more empathy than, say, a Mr. Goon (Enid Blyton readers, you know what I mean! 😊), they aren’t credited with much intelligence. They seem to do little beyond showing up at the end to either rescue (Murder in the Crypt) or arrest someone.
It gets tiresome reading about a glamorous socialite whose “eye for design” inexplicably translates into an “eye for crime,” solving cases that the hapless cops can’t crack. Her superior interviewing skills, coupled with TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) headstrong forays into danger, lead to predictable moments where she must be conveniently rescued—often by her adorable pug Ruby, who either tugs someone along to help or trips up the villain at just the right moment.
That said, Fliss Chester is a solid writer, and the plots are reasonably well-constructed. I wouldn’t go out of my way to continue with this series (though, let’s be honest, I already have—hence this review as a heads-up for others). But if you’re looking for a mindless, quick read after work—one where you don’t have to think or particularly care—this series fits the bill.
A quick aside: I also find Lady Hardcastle and sidekick mysteries a tad exhausting, but once you get used to the rambling repartee (they had less TV, yada yada, so they took longer to speak and did so entertainingly), it becomes a fair read. The Atalanta Ashford series, meanwhile, is an obvious copy of both.
Of course, cozy mysteries require some suspension of disbelief, but Cressida truly takes the cake. She’s the ultimate take-charge heroine, dazzling everyone with her sleuthing prowess in the final pages. I appreciate smart and bold female protagonists who use their wits, but…
Yes, the upper classes of the 1920s wielded significant influence over the masses—and the police. Law enforcement procedures lacked the technical sophistication we’re accustomed to today. But Cressida constantly orders the police around, barking out obvious instructions (“Secure the doors! Batten the hatches!”), while somehow managing to be everywhere at once in these time-sensitive mysteries (Death on the Scotland Express, Murder at the Mayfair). She conveniently stumbles across key clues while the police drag out their interviews and bumble about, often sidelined by circumstance (Death on the Scotland Express). Worse, she frequently withholds information from them, which I find morally questionable.
Even though the two main recurring police characters are written with more empathy than, say, a Mr. Goon (Enid Blyton readers, you know what I mean! 😊), they aren’t credited with much intelligence. They seem to do little beyond showing up at the end to either rescue (Murder in the Crypt) or arrest someone.
It gets tiresome reading about a glamorous socialite whose “eye for design” inexplicably translates into an “eye for crime,” solving cases that the hapless cops can’t crack. Her superior interviewing skills, coupled with TSTL (Too Stupid To Live) headstrong forays into danger, lead to predictable moments where she must be conveniently rescued—often by her adorable pug Ruby, who either tugs someone along to help or trips up the villain at just the right moment.
That said, Fliss Chester is a solid writer, and the plots are reasonably well-constructed. I wouldn’t go out of my way to continue with this series (though, let’s be honest, I already have—hence this review as a heads-up for others). But if you’re looking for a mindless, quick read after work—one where you don’t have to think or particularly care—this series fits the bill.
October 23, 2023
Death on the Scotland Express is book 4 of the Cressida Fawcett Mystery series, which is set in the 1920's. Industrial tycoon Lewis Warriner has been shot dead in his cabin. Someone on the train is a murderer and Cressida puts her sleuthing skills to use to find a killer before the train reaches its final destination. The victim had a few enemies on the train so there are a lot of possible suspects and many red herrings. All in all a good solid mystery.
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