What do you think?
Rate this book
Bow Street Duchess Mystery #6
Nature of the Crime
The Bow Street Duchess Mystery series continues in January 2024 with the sixth Audrey Sinclair and Hugh Marsden investigation...
When a fellow passenger is found dead on Audrey’s packet ship from France, a mysterious note on the body points to her as the killer. Detained in Dover for an inquest that is being led by a prejudiced magistrate, she is joined by trusted friends and family—and the newly minted viscount, Hugh Marsden—to prove her innocence.
But when it’s discovered the murdered man was a private inquiry agent, hired to follow the duchess while she traveled the Continent, they enter a race to find out who hired him and why—and what secrets the true killer intends to expose before sending Audrey to an early grave.
When a fellow passenger is found dead on Audrey’s packet ship from France, a mysterious note on the body points to her as the killer. Detained in Dover for an inquest that is being led by a prejudiced magistrate, she is joined by trusted friends and family—and the newly minted viscount, Hugh Marsden—to prove her innocence.
But when it’s discovered the murdered man was a private inquiry agent, hired to follow the duchess while she traveled the Continent, they enter a race to find out who hired him and why—and what secrets the true killer intends to expose before sending Audrey to an early grave.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 20, 2024
787 people are currently reading
932 people want to read
About the author
Cara Devlin
38 books435 followersCara is an author, reader, and history lover. She reads and writes across genres, but her heart is reserved for romantic historical fiction and mystery. Her Bow Street Duchess books are fast-paced historical mysteries featuring a slow-burn romance taking place in Regency London. The series begins with Murder at the Seven Dials. Cara lives in rural New England with her family, where she is at work on her next series, the Spencer & Reid Mysteries.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
May 10, 2024
Reread 5/22 I enjoyed the setup of the plot and that the main characters talked to each other about why the other hadn't written. I also think there is growth with each of the characters and more understanding of the actions of others. The book would lose a great deal of meaning if read as a stand-alone, so I recommend reading this one in order. This book is a really enjoyable mystery that does not move the overarching plot along but does advance the romance. It also sets up the characters for the final book. This has been a fantastic series, and I am excited to read the next book.
January 20, 2024
Happy Release Day
I eat this series up.
I love the two main characters and their angsty love story, I love all the side characters and just like spending time with everyone. These books give me a cozy and happy feeling, even with all the dying and murdering.
The mystery here was fast paced and had thrilling moments and I liked how it all played out. Did this book advance the storyline of the series? No, not really. The big thing is still hanging over their heads and nothing has changed about that. I need the final book because I’m ready to see all this wrapped up now.
This is not a standalone, the books need to be read in series order, but they are short, fast and engaging.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for an advanced copy, this is my honest review.
I eat this series up.
I love the two main characters and their angsty love story, I love all the side characters and just like spending time with everyone. These books give me a cozy and happy feeling, even with all the dying and murdering.
The mystery here was fast paced and had thrilling moments and I liked how it all played out. Did this book advance the storyline of the series? No, not really. The big thing is still hanging over their heads and nothing has changed about that. I need the final book because I’m ready to see all this wrapped up now.
This is not a standalone, the books need to be read in series order, but they are short, fast and engaging.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for an advanced copy, this is my honest review.
January 8, 2024
It's amazing to look back on this book and the Bow Street Duchess series overall and see how well-plotted this larger, overall story is. Yes, the books can standalone, but read together, you get to see threads from earlier books reemerge in later ones. That's the case in this story, in which Audrey is framed for murder, but it's made all the more exciting when previous events in the series become part of the investigation into what really happened.
As the story opens, Audrey is returning to England after a months-long trip to the Continent with her sister-in-law (Cassie), their maids, driver (Carrigan!), and a footman. A man is found dead on the boat with a note accusing Audrey of murder. She's immediately taken into custody while the footman races to London to fetch her brother-in-law, Michael, who is now the Duke of Fournier. Of course, Michael gets Hugh and Sir to come along.
On top of the twisty mystery with multiple villains, we get Audrey and Hugh's reunion and the budding relationship between Thornton and Cassie (who are set for their own enemies-to-lovers story). There's some fascinating detail about the Western Heights of Dover as well. Plenty of stories have characters using Dover to get to France, but I have never gotten much detail about the area. The descriptions of the Grand Shaft were so fascinating that I had to google and read more. Fascinating!
There was a moment when I was dreading a prolonged miscommunication storyline, but Audrey and Hugh talked through the issue like the adults they are. Of course this unusual couple isn't going to fall into the trap that other couples do!
I received an advance review copy for free, but I have loved this series so much that I have purchased physical copies of book and will do the same with this one.
As the story opens, Audrey is returning to England after a months-long trip to the Continent with her sister-in-law (Cassie), their maids, driver (Carrigan!), and a footman. A man is found dead on the boat with a note accusing Audrey of murder. She's immediately taken into custody while the footman races to London to fetch her brother-in-law, Michael, who is now the Duke of Fournier. Of course, Michael gets Hugh and Sir to come along.
On top of the twisty mystery with multiple villains, we get Audrey and Hugh's reunion and the budding relationship between Thornton and Cassie (who are set for their own enemies-to-lovers story). There's some fascinating detail about the Western Heights of Dover as well. Plenty of stories have characters using Dover to get to France, but I have never gotten much detail about the area. The descriptions of the Grand Shaft were so fascinating that I had to google and read more. Fascinating!
There was a moment when I was dreading a prolonged miscommunication storyline, but Audrey and Hugh talked through the issue like the adults they are. Of course this unusual couple isn't going to fall into the trap that other couples do!
I received an advance review copy for free, but I have loved this series so much that I have purchased physical copies of book and will do the same with this one.
February 27, 2024
Once more Audrey and Hugh face uncertainty and all that brings.
Audrey is framed for murder when her ship from France docks in Dover. All is not going well and figures from their past move threateningly in the background. There’s confusion over letters not being sent or received. Both think the other has stopped caring. What!
Audrey is in danger. A bated breath read.!When will these two be able to declare themselves to the world?
Audrey is framed for murder when her ship from France docks in Dover. All is not going well and figures from their past move threateningly in the background. There’s confusion over letters not being sent or received. Both think the other has stopped caring. What!
Audrey is in danger. A bated breath read.!When will these two be able to declare themselves to the world?
January 21, 2024
This installment of the Bow Street Duchess Mystery series, the penultimate book of the series, is FANTASTIC! It is well-written, intricately plotted and edgy with suspense. It sees the return of Audrey Sinclair, now the Dowager Duchess of Fournier, to England after spending five months on the Continent with her sister-in-law, Lady Cassandra, during her mourning period for her husband, Philip, the "late" Duke of Fournier. But before she can return home to Hugh Marsden, the newly minted Viscount Neatham and the man whom she loves, her involvement in a murder on the returning packet ship sees her being detained in Dover. As usual, Hugh and his band of Merry Men, including Lord Grant Thornton and the adolescent Sir, arrive to aid Audrey in her defense. Cara Devlin skillfully draws on what has gone before in the previous 5 books to shape this whodunit and the why of it. It also raises questions as to what's actually become of Philip and will he come to Audrey's aid when she needs a ducal defense the most?
Reading this book is like visiting with old friends who have become dear to us, and at times, it is tender and humorous. Hugh and Audrey, despite having a bumpy start in this book, felt true to who they have been in the previous books, yet continue to grow as a couple. Hugh is perhaps one of my all-time favorite heroes because he is loyal and loving, with both Audrey and Sir. I appreciated that Hugh allows Audrey and Sir to have their own agency when it comes to their lives. He also knows he can rely on his best friend, Grant Thornton, and we begin to see how Thornton and Cassie are going to have to work past their prickly interactions to grow together. And of course, it's lovely to see the further development of Greer beyond her being just Her Grace's maid. Overall, it was such a joy to read this book, and already I am counting down the days till the last book of the series, Taken to the Grave, arrives in March 2024. A beautiful addition to what has been a very enjoyable mystery series.
I'm sticking with Hugh Marsden and Audrey Sinclair and all their friends and family until the very last word of Taken to the Grave!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reading this book is like visiting with old friends who have become dear to us, and at times, it is tender and humorous. Hugh and Audrey, despite having a bumpy start in this book, felt true to who they have been in the previous books, yet continue to grow as a couple. Hugh is perhaps one of my all-time favorite heroes because he is loyal and loving, with both Audrey and Sir. I appreciated that Hugh allows Audrey and Sir to have their own agency when it comes to their lives. He also knows he can rely on his best friend, Grant Thornton, and we begin to see how Thornton and Cassie are going to have to work past their prickly interactions to grow together. And of course, it's lovely to see the further development of Greer beyond her being just Her Grace's maid. Overall, it was such a joy to read this book, and already I am counting down the days till the last book of the series, Taken to the Grave, arrives in March 2024. A beautiful addition to what has been a very enjoyable mystery series.
I'm sticking with Hugh Marsden and Audrey Sinclair and all their friends and family until the very last word of Taken to the Grave!
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 7, 2025
What I said in my previous “reviews”.
😌
😌
December 22, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ not my favorite in the series, but still a decent read!
January 5, 2024
Penultimate book in series?
Sixth book in the series
Standalone – no
The book begins roughly 4-5 months after the end of book 5
Audrey and her entourage are returning home after their autumn tour of the continent. She’s anxious and insecure since she hasn’t heard from Hugh for most of the time on the continent, even though she wrote frequently. I feel as though Audrey should have more confidence at this point. She’s willing to jump headlong into danger, but she’s still insecure in matters of love.
Meanwhile, Hugh has been drowning his sorrows and living the life of a reprobate since she hasn’t replied to any of his letters. Basil, the valet is losing patience and even Sir is steering clear. Something is definitely a foot.
Before setting foot on English soil, Audrey is accused of murder.
It’s revealed quite early on who the villain is, he seems to have a vendetta against Audrey. I really like how this author is able to weave a mystery and tie all of the disperate threads together. This was a solution I did not see coming and I despaired a bit early on. I think this book was a bit more angsty than others in the series, and I am here for it!
There’s a major twist that I did not see coming. I could not put the book down. I had to see what would happen next.
The consequences of Phillip's lie continue to burden our main characters. I am not without sympathy for the plight of a gay man in Regency England, but I’m hoping the final book will offer a lasting HEA for Audrey and Hugh.
With each book Phillip is less sympathetic in my eyes. I feel like he should have some sort of reckoning in the final book, especially since he sprung all this chaos on Audrey without consulting her first. Once again, it feels a bit incongruous that Audrey can jump headlong into danger, but still is pretty meek in personal relationships.
There is some growth. Audrey does seem to moderate her impulsive tendencies, somewhat and gain more self-confidence. I think the fact that she shows a bit of compassion towards her Uncle and Mother's relationship shows her gaining maturity, life is more shades of gray than black-and-white.
There are a few closed door intimate scenes (finally!)
I love this series so much, the paranormal angle is barely a plot device in the most recent books, which was a disappointment at first, but I have come to love these characters so much the Duchess's "gift" is superfluous at this point.
According to the author, this is the pentultimate book of the series, there’s a lot to be resolved in that last book. I’m curious to see how the author does it.
It’s not quite a cliffhanger ending, but as the circle of people who know Phillips secret expands, the book ends with a few loose ends, and perhaps the foreshadowing of a new love story- I’m looking at you, Cassie.
Is the true villain REALLY dead…
Has the villain's accomplice REALLY seen the error of their ways…
WILL Philip stay dead, and let our starcrossed lovers have their HEA…
HOW will Cara Devlin wrap up this wonderful story in just one more book! (if I have any complaint, it’s that the books are too short and end too soon)
I for one I’m looking forward to the last book if nothing more for the promise of Audrey and Hugh's hard fought well deserved HEA.
Stay tuned….
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sixth book in the series
Standalone – no
The book begins roughly 4-5 months after the end of book 5
Audrey and her entourage are returning home after their autumn tour of the continent. She’s anxious and insecure since she hasn’t heard from Hugh for most of the time on the continent, even though she wrote frequently. I feel as though Audrey should have more confidence at this point. She’s willing to jump headlong into danger, but she’s still insecure in matters of love.
Meanwhile, Hugh has been drowning his sorrows and living the life of a reprobate since she hasn’t replied to any of his letters. Basil, the valet is losing patience and even Sir is steering clear. Something is definitely a foot.
Before setting foot on English soil, Audrey is accused of murder.
It’s revealed quite early on who the villain is, he seems to have a vendetta against Audrey. I really like how this author is able to weave a mystery and tie all of the disperate threads together. This was a solution I did not see coming and I despaired a bit early on. I think this book was a bit more angsty than others in the series, and I am here for it!
There’s a major twist that I did not see coming. I could not put the book down. I had to see what would happen next.
The consequences of Phillip's lie continue to burden our main characters. I am not without sympathy for the plight of a gay man in Regency England, but I’m hoping the final book will offer a lasting HEA for Audrey and Hugh.
With each book Phillip is less sympathetic in my eyes. I feel like he should have some sort of reckoning in the final book, especially since he sprung all this chaos on Audrey without consulting her first. Once again, it feels a bit incongruous that Audrey can jump headlong into danger, but still is pretty meek in personal relationships.
There is some growth. Audrey does seem to moderate her impulsive tendencies, somewhat and gain more self-confidence. I think the fact that she shows a bit of compassion towards her Uncle and Mother's relationship shows her gaining maturity, life is more shades of gray than black-and-white.
There are a few closed door intimate scenes (finally!)
I love this series so much, the paranormal angle is barely a plot device in the most recent books, which was a disappointment at first, but I have come to love these characters so much the Duchess's "gift" is superfluous at this point.
According to the author, this is the pentultimate book of the series, there’s a lot to be resolved in that last book. I’m curious to see how the author does it.
It’s not quite a cliffhanger ending, but as the circle of people who know Phillips secret expands, the book ends with a few loose ends, and perhaps the foreshadowing of a new love story- I’m looking at you, Cassie.
Is the true villain REALLY dead…
Has the villain's accomplice REALLY seen the error of their ways…
WILL Philip stay dead, and let our starcrossed lovers have their HEA…
HOW will Cara Devlin wrap up this wonderful story in just one more book! (if I have any complaint, it’s that the books are too short and end too soon)
I for one I’m looking forward to the last book if nothing more for the promise of Audrey and Hugh's hard fought well deserved HEA.
Stay tuned….
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 21, 2024
Sixth book in this series, and second to last 😢.
We have seen the relationship between Audrey and Hugh develop into love, but the pesky (former) Duke of Fournier keeps throwing a wrench into the works. After going to the continent with her sister in law Cassie, she receives no letters from Hugh. Has he forgotten her so quickly? Then she is accused of a crime once they land in Dover, where the weather and the geography become additional characters. Her special gift is of little use here, despite Sir’s help. This series gets better and better, and of course needs to be read in order. Many, many, thanks to BookSirens and the author for the ARC of this wonderful addition to the Duchess of Fournier’s mystery series. I received this advance copy at no charge, but all opinions are my own.
We have seen the relationship between Audrey and Hugh develop into love, but the pesky (former) Duke of Fournier keeps throwing a wrench into the works. After going to the continent with her sister in law Cassie, she receives no letters from Hugh. Has he forgotten her so quickly? Then she is accused of a crime once they land in Dover, where the weather and the geography become additional characters. Her special gift is of little use here, despite Sir’s help. This series gets better and better, and of course needs to be read in order. Many, many, thanks to BookSirens and the author for the ARC of this wonderful addition to the Duchess of Fournier’s mystery series. I received this advance copy at no charge, but all opinions are my own.
January 22, 2024
Excellent
This series just continues to be a great read. Characters that you want to know what happens to them. Ready for the next one.
This series just continues to be a great read. Characters that you want to know what happens to them. Ready for the next one.
January 20, 2024
I love this series of books and this one is another well written, captivating story, good mystery and continuing love story between Audrey and Hugh. Cara has created some wonderful characters here and having followed the series from the start, I feel I know them well. Highly recommend this book but definitely start from the beginning of the series. I received an ARC for free and I am leaving this honest feedback voluntarily
April 7, 2024
Audrey St. Claire, the Dowager Duchess of Fournier, is being held on a ship in Dover accused of murder. Her brother-in-law, the Duke of Fournier, arrives from London to help, but he's not alone. Hugh Marsden, Viscount Neatham, former Principal Officer Bow Street, can't stay away from helping the woman he loves. For six months his letters haven't been answered during her trip on the Continent. Audrey's letters to Hugh were never answered.
It soon comes to light it's part of an elaborate plan to reveal the lie. This series continues to keep me engaged with mystery and the relationship between the Dowager Duchess and the Viscount.
It soon comes to light it's part of an elaborate plan to reveal the lie. This series continues to keep me engaged with mystery and the relationship between the Dowager Duchess and the Viscount.
January 12, 2024
I know many reviews start out with ‘I really love this series’ but it’s quite true in this case. Audrey and Hugh are two very engaging, realistic characters and I find myself quickly and thoroughly engrossed in their story.
This book opens with Audrey and Hugh seemingly at odds, which is so puzzling considering how we left them in the last book. Audrey is returning from her stay on the Continent finally, and I’m eager to see her and Hugh back together again. But trouble awaits and Audrey is accused of murder. Why does Lord Burton, the magistrate, have such a disdain for Audrey? Who is leaving notes on dead bodies accusing Audrey of murder and even more worrying, who is leaving notes in Audrey’s room about Phillip?
The mystery keeps things moving along at a good pace, the romance between High and Audrey keeps me thoroughly involved in the book. Devlin’s writing style just sweeps me along with the story until I reach the conclusion. I cannot stop until I know what happens. lol.
I love Hugh’s character, his drinking shows that he has insecurities like the rest of us do and his devotion to and love for Audrey shines through his thoughts and actions. Audrey is tenacious, clever, courageous and absolutely head over heels in love with Hugh. I was so relieved that they discussed the letters… or lack thereof… and quickly resolved any misunderstanding between them. I hate when that type of misunderstanding is allowed to persist for the whole book. Fortunately Devlin writes Hugh and Audrey as down to earth, sensible (well mostly sensible) characters.
As I suspected Phillip’s decision has come back to haunt Audrey and thereby, Hugh. I fear we will see even more negative consequences arising from Phillip’s selfish decision in the next book before Audrey and Hugh hopefully get the HEA they deserve.
The side characters, like Cassie, Sir, Basil, Thornton, etc are becoming more compelling with each book. I find myself almost as eager to see them on the page as I do Audrey and Hugh. I have enjoyed watching Greer and Carrigan grow ever closer over the series. Is there hope for Cassie and Thornton? Why yes, I think there is and I look forward to reading that. (The author has said Thornton will get his own story.)
I shall be sad to see the end of this series since I’ve enjoyed it so very much. From the first few chapters of the first book, I knew this was going to be a terrific series. Devlin has not let us down with this book. It’s wonderful!
Btw, you really should read the other books to fully understand the characters and history in this book. It’s a much better reading experience if you do and why wouldn’t you want to, they are just as much fun to read.
I received a free advance review copy from Book Sirens and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
This book opens with Audrey and Hugh seemingly at odds, which is so puzzling considering how we left them in the last book. Audrey is returning from her stay on the Continent finally, and I’m eager to see her and Hugh back together again. But trouble awaits and Audrey is accused of murder. Why does Lord Burton, the magistrate, have such a disdain for Audrey? Who is leaving notes on dead bodies accusing Audrey of murder and even more worrying, who is leaving notes in Audrey’s room about Phillip?
The mystery keeps things moving along at a good pace, the romance between High and Audrey keeps me thoroughly involved in the book. Devlin’s writing style just sweeps me along with the story until I reach the conclusion. I cannot stop until I know what happens. lol.
I love Hugh’s character, his drinking shows that he has insecurities like the rest of us do and his devotion to and love for Audrey shines through his thoughts and actions. Audrey is tenacious, clever, courageous and absolutely head over heels in love with Hugh. I was so relieved that they discussed the letters… or lack thereof… and quickly resolved any misunderstanding between them. I hate when that type of misunderstanding is allowed to persist for the whole book. Fortunately Devlin writes Hugh and Audrey as down to earth, sensible (well mostly sensible) characters.
As I suspected Phillip’s decision has come back to haunt Audrey and thereby, Hugh. I fear we will see even more negative consequences arising from Phillip’s selfish decision in the next book before Audrey and Hugh hopefully get the HEA they deserve.
The side characters, like Cassie, Sir, Basil, Thornton, etc are becoming more compelling with each book. I find myself almost as eager to see them on the page as I do Audrey and Hugh. I have enjoyed watching Greer and Carrigan grow ever closer over the series. Is there hope for Cassie and Thornton? Why yes, I think there is and I look forward to reading that. (The author has said Thornton will get his own story.)
I shall be sad to see the end of this series since I’ve enjoyed it so very much. From the first few chapters of the first book, I knew this was going to be a terrific series. Devlin has not let us down with this book. It’s wonderful!
Btw, you really should read the other books to fully understand the characters and history in this book. It’s a much better reading experience if you do and why wouldn’t you want to, they are just as much fun to read.
I received a free advance review copy from Book Sirens and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
April 17, 2024
This is a new author for me. I just finished book 1 thru 5 and it was so intriguing and so damn good. I was surprised how much depth she got in the story. The funny thing is all the books I read have sex in them and I researched her and thought she had sex in her books and she didn't in books 1 thru 4. Book 5 finally had some but like a sentence or two and not descriptive at all. And now this book didn't have any. But like I said, these have been such greats read it really didn't matter.
I usually read light ton stories but I do have a few authors that have a bit more intrigue and daring. But this series is really suspenseful with murder and secrets. So unusual for me. I have never read a series like this. Not just so heavy with the suspense and intrigue but it's the same main characters across the whole series. Like I said about book 1 thru 5, it doesn't really end in a cliffhanger, but you just know there is more to come from Audrey and Hugh.
I am starting to see that this could have been really a 5 or 6 book series if she tightened up some of the storylines. I don't normally ever get to read a whole series back to back and I see now I kind of prefer waiting. After a while it can be a bit, okay already, let's end this. But again this is still been an interesting and fun read.
On to final Book 7.
I usually read light ton stories but I do have a few authors that have a bit more intrigue and daring. But this series is really suspenseful with murder and secrets. So unusual for me. I have never read a series like this. Not just so heavy with the suspense and intrigue but it's the same main characters across the whole series. Like I said about book 1 thru 5, it doesn't really end in a cliffhanger, but you just know there is more to come from Audrey and Hugh.
I am starting to see that this could have been really a 5 or 6 book series if she tightened up some of the storylines. I don't normally ever get to read a whole series back to back and I see now I kind of prefer waiting. After a while it can be a bit, okay already, let's end this. But again this is still been an interesting and fun read.
On to final Book 7.
January 3, 2024
The Bow Street Duchess Mystery series very quickly became one of my favourite series of 2023 and this recent installment has got 2024 off to a very promising start. It was a great read. I ended up reading it in one sitting, eager to see if my conclusions proved correct. I will say that you do need to have read the previous books to understand important circumstances covered in this book.
The narrative starts only a few months after the last book, with the Duchess still in mourning and returning from her trip with Cassie abroad. The whole plot takes place in a new setting of the port of Dover.
The plot is well paced and thought out, with clues scattered throughout the narrative. The conclusion is satisfying, although it does not rely on Audrey's gifts as much as in other novels. I particularly enjoyed the atmospheric descriptive passages, as the port provides new interesting scenes and a landscape for mystery.
It left me eager to read the next installment to see how the series will conclude and see if they get their happy ending. Although I'm also sad the series is coming to the end.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The narrative starts only a few months after the last book, with the Duchess still in mourning and returning from her trip with Cassie abroad. The whole plot takes place in a new setting of the port of Dover.
The plot is well paced and thought out, with clues scattered throughout the narrative. The conclusion is satisfying, although it does not rely on Audrey's gifts as much as in other novels. I particularly enjoyed the atmospheric descriptive passages, as the port provides new interesting scenes and a landscape for mystery.
It left me eager to read the next installment to see how the series will conclude and see if they get their happy ending. Although I'm also sad the series is coming to the end.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 13, 2025
This one was entertaining, and I loved every interaction between Audrey and Hugh (and Cassie and Thornton!!), but I feel like it hasn't brought anything new to the story. Just one more book left...
March 29, 2024
Returning from their months-long trip to Europe, Audrey and her sister-in-law, Cassie, are bound for Dover in a ship from Calais. Upon arrival, Audrey is accused of murdering a passenger on the ship. Hugh Marsden, now Lord Neatham, and her brother-in-law, Michael, arrive to help sort out the mess. In the course of the investigation, another man is murdered. There are many knots to unravel in order to find the culprit.
Audrey makes a couple of choices in book 6 of the series that I found a bit out of character for her. There have to be choices that put her in danger for the sake of the plot, but I kept saying, "She wouldn't have done that. She's too smart for that." Nevertheless, it led to an exciting climax. One thing I like about Audrey is that she isn't the delicate heroine who gets rescued by the dashing hero. The handsome, viral hero does rescue her, but it's after she has dealt with the villain herself. All of these stories keep me glued to the pages.
Audrey makes a couple of choices in book 6 of the series that I found a bit out of character for her. There have to be choices that put her in danger for the sake of the plot, but I kept saying, "She wouldn't have done that. She's too smart for that." Nevertheless, it led to an exciting climax. One thing I like about Audrey is that she isn't the delicate heroine who gets rescued by the dashing hero. The handsome, viral hero does rescue her, but it's after she has dealt with the villain herself. All of these stories keep me glued to the pages.
June 23, 2024
Convoluted
I tried to give Nature of the Crime a chance, but the plot was just too convoluted for me. To the point I was unable to suspend my disbelief enough to enjoy it.
Unlike previous villains in the Bow Street Duchess Mysteries , the one Hugh and Audrey go up against in Nature of the Crime feels like a moustache twirling caricature. I was half expecting him to shake his fist and shout “Curse you, Marsden!”
There is also supposed to be a blackmail subplot, which isn’t worth talking about really. The scheme was mentioned a few times, but the characters involved in the plot never actually ask for money. Despite having numerous opportunities to do so. In fact, one of the characters acts in a way that is counterintuitive to a blackmailer. 🤷♂️
Not sure I can recommend Nature of the Crime. But the series as a whole has been enjoyable for the most part. Worth a read if you are a fan of regency era mysteries. Or shows like Mrs Scarlet and the Duke.
I tried to give Nature of the Crime a chance, but the plot was just too convoluted for me. To the point I was unable to suspend my disbelief enough to enjoy it.
Unlike previous villains in the Bow Street Duchess Mysteries , the one Hugh and Audrey go up against in Nature of the Crime feels like a moustache twirling caricature. I was half expecting him to shake his fist and shout “Curse you, Marsden!”
There is also supposed to be a blackmail subplot, which isn’t worth talking about really. The scheme was mentioned a few times, but the characters involved in the plot never actually ask for money. Despite having numerous opportunities to do so. In fact, one of the characters acts in a way that is counterintuitive to a blackmailer. 🤷♂️
Not sure I can recommend Nature of the Crime. But the series as a whole has been enjoyable for the most part. Worth a read if you are a fan of regency era mysteries. Or shows like Mrs Scarlet and the Duke.
January 21, 2024
Audrey Sinclair, Dowager Duchess of Fournier is returning to England on a packet ship when a fellow passenger is found dead, a mysterious note on the body points to her as the killer. Detained in Dover for an inquest that is being led by a prejudiced magistrate, Lord Burton. Soon she is joined by trusted friends and family including the newly minted viscount, Hugh Marsden, to prove her innocence. But when it’s discovered the murdered man was a private inquiry agent, hired to follow the duchess while she travelled the Continent, they enter a race to find out who hired him and why and what secrets the true killer intends to expose before sending Audrey to an early grave.
The sixth book in this riveting series & I’d recommend reading from the start. I loved Audrey & Hugh & have thoroughly enjoyed how their relationship has changed & grown, they work so well together on the cases they’ve solved & their romance is touching & beautiful. However they are harbouring a huge secret, which threatens to be revealed in this book. This well written page turner had me reading well into the night to finish it, there are twists & turns, a revengeful villain, a blossoming secondary & possibly a tertiary romance. The characters have lovely depth, the descriptions of places are graphic & the pace never lags. I mustn’t forget Sir who’s growing up & becoming a lovely young man. I’m now looking forward to the finale & wondering how things can be resolved
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The sixth book in this riveting series & I’d recommend reading from the start. I loved Audrey & Hugh & have thoroughly enjoyed how their relationship has changed & grown, they work so well together on the cases they’ve solved & their romance is touching & beautiful. However they are harbouring a huge secret, which threatens to be revealed in this book. This well written page turner had me reading well into the night to finish it, there are twists & turns, a revengeful villain, a blossoming secondary & possibly a tertiary romance. The characters have lovely depth, the descriptions of places are graphic & the pace never lags. I mustn’t forget Sir who’s growing up & becoming a lovely young man. I’m now looking forward to the finale & wondering how things can be resolved
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 13, 2024
It seems the duchess can find herself in danger when she has spent days in her cabin helping her sick friend. A note left on a body that points her as the killer. Plus it seems the magistrate will not hear any arguments , against his own. Word is sent to London to bring the Duke, who is married to his love, and moved into take Philip’s place since he is presumed dead in a tragic sea accident . Then he grabs Hugh, and his male household to accompany him. Hugh had been a Bow Street Officer until he inherited his title as a Viscount. Plus he has excellent skills finding out the truth, behind crimes. He also loves Audrey. This book had multiple villains, murders, kidnapping, and a very engaging story. It could be a stand alone, but I implore you to start at the beginning of this wonderful series. I really am enjoying this series, and the ladies of rank , in it are just as formidable as their male counterparts. I cannot wait till I start the next one in the series. 5 stars. It has sexual content, and a few swear words. Fast paced storytelling, great characters, romance, and suspense,
October 22, 2024
These books have a chokehold on me and I can't even explain why. I stayed up wayyy too late finishing this last night. Even though the ending was fairly predictable, I needed to know what was going to happen!
Audrey and Hugh continued to be very cute, and I'm loving the development of the side characters! Especially Sir--he's my favorite. I still really like Cassie and Thorton (and think they'd be cute together!) but Thorton kind of got on my nerves with the way he treated Cassie. To be fair, he has no way of knowing what she's gone through, but still. It wouldn't hurt him to be nicer! (It is kind of sweet that he's still hung up on his late wife...although it gets in the way of him and Cassie being together 👿 haha)
I'm only giving this 4 stars because I didn't like the mystery as much, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this! I'm super sad this is the second to last book in the series :(
Audrey and Hugh continued to be very cute, and I'm loving the development of the side characters! Especially Sir--he's my favorite. I still really like Cassie and Thorton (and think they'd be cute together!) but Thorton kind of got on my nerves with the way he treated Cassie. To be fair, he has no way of knowing what she's gone through, but still. It wouldn't hurt him to be nicer! (It is kind of sweet that he's still hung up on his late wife...although it gets in the way of him and Cassie being together 👿 haha)
I'm only giving this 4 stars because I didn't like the mystery as much, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this! I'm super sad this is the second to last book in the series :(
January 4, 2024
"Nature of the Crime" by Cara Devlin is an absolute page-turner that begins with a bang and maintains its gripping intensity until the very last page. I made the rookie mistake of cracking it open at 10 pm last night, expecting to read just a few chapters. Big mistake. I was so captivated that sleep became a distant thought, and I found myself unable to put the book down until I reached its thrilling conclusion.
Devlin's storytelling prowess shines through, throwing Audrey and Hugh back into action as secrets are threatened to be revealed. Racing through the advanced readers copy, I was hooked from the start, eagerly anticipating each twist and turn. Now, as I impatiently count the days until the next book, I can't help but hope for the epic ending Audrey and Hugh truly deserve. This review reflects my unfiltered enthusiasm for the wild ride, courtesy of the generosity of that advanced copy. Here's to late-night reading adventures and to Devlin, who crafted a tale too good to resist.
Devlin's storytelling prowess shines through, throwing Audrey and Hugh back into action as secrets are threatened to be revealed. Racing through the advanced readers copy, I was hooked from the start, eagerly anticipating each twist and turn. Now, as I impatiently count the days until the next book, I can't help but hope for the epic ending Audrey and Hugh truly deserve. This review reflects my unfiltered enthusiasm for the wild ride, courtesy of the generosity of that advanced copy. Here's to late-night reading adventures and to Devlin, who crafted a tale too good to resist.
January 10, 2024
Nature of the Crime is the 6th book in the Series, and I was eager to read it. This Series is smart, fresh and oh so enjoyable, and this book did not disappoint.
Audrey and Hugh are a fabulous couple, whose romantic story is very unusual, since Audrey is married to Phillip. So, not only do they have mysteries to deal with, but moral issues too.
There is a wonderful cast of surrounding characters to enjoy, and I feel some may have their own books. Next please!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Audrey and Hugh are a fabulous couple, whose romantic story is very unusual, since Audrey is married to Phillip. So, not only do they have mysteries to deal with, but moral issues too.
There is a wonderful cast of surrounding characters to enjoy, and I feel some may have their own books. Next please!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 13, 2024
Love love loved! Cara Devlin never disappoints. When I say I ate, I gobbled this in a sitting! I was in tears the banter had me cackling and gripping at my scalp from suspense. I asked for more Cassie and boy did I get it, I adored her scenes and how her character is developing. The mystery was mind blowing and they just keep getting better and better in each book. Audrey and Hugh have a superb connection and I wish I could be a fly in one of their homes. The villains are always so intricate its astonishing, I'm intrigued about what's to come in the next book and I know it's going to be awesome.
February 5, 2024
The Duchess of Southwick is getting of the packet from Calais when she is detained because a man on the boat has been killed and there is a note that she did it in his pocket. Until the local Captain takes over the proceedings will it be believed she is innocent. They are trying to get Philip out of hiding to prove he is still alive. An interesting story with the Viscount there to help her. Like the other books in the series she is very able to look after herself.
February 7, 2024
It’s official. I love this series. The author has made the mistake though if her gay characters being the villains. Maybe unintentionally….but it’s there. No five stars for the fact that all the characters walked right into the trap at the end. I even called the drugged tea. Still, overall great. Excited for March!
January 6, 2024
This is the sixth installment in the Bow Street Duchess series and what a marvelous continuation it is!
I have loved these characters since day one and I am really invested in their adventures.
Audrey is so fierce and Hugh so affectionate that it is impossible not to root for them! But an enemy from the past is trying to disrupt it all and frame Audrey.
I highly recommend reading all the previous books before tackling this one, as they give further insight into what is happening now.
As always, I am left eager for more, what has the future in store for Cassie and Thornton?
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
I have loved these characters since day one and I am really invested in their adventures.
Audrey is so fierce and Hugh so affectionate that it is impossible not to root for them! But an enemy from the past is trying to disrupt it all and frame Audrey.
I highly recommend reading all the previous books before tackling this one, as they give further insight into what is happening now.
As always, I am left eager for more, what has the future in store for Cassie and Thornton?
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
February 2, 2024
Another adventure that will make your heart race because you are in suspense and wants to see who the real culprit is. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
January 9, 2024
Well apparently this is the next to the last book in the series. NOOO! I love these characters so much I don't want it to end. Yet, I am so curious to know how the author is going to end it.
This was a very complicated murder mystery, and it slowly became apparent who the villain was.
Audry and Hugh were so confused because neither had received letters as Audry traveled around Europe. Audry was sure Hugh still loved her, but she was very worried. Hugh was drowning his sorrows in whisky, much to the consternation of his staff and Sir, each character, from Sir to Greer to Carrigan, and especially Cassie are growing in many ways, Sir literally.
Not only great characters and good mysteries, this book was historically interesting, from the rough ride in the ferry from Calais to Dover, but the battlements and fortress of Dover.
I was in Dover last year, and the French were passive aggressively controlling the border by not having enough border control agents. The truck and car traffic backed up for hours, we couldn't get off the ship and people couldn't get to the ship.
I wish I had known about the battlements.
But I digress. This is not a stand-alone. Please read the series in order, or you will not understand the underlying mystery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book sirens for my EARC. This is of the best historical fiction mystery series I have read. Great characters, good mysteries, and the history is so interesting I am always googling to see the real places.
This was a very complicated murder mystery, and it slowly became apparent who the villain was.
Audry and Hugh were so confused because neither had received letters as Audry traveled around Europe. Audry was sure Hugh still loved her, but she was very worried. Hugh was drowning his sorrows in whisky, much to the consternation of his staff and Sir, each character, from Sir to Greer to Carrigan, and especially Cassie are growing in many ways, Sir literally.
Not only great characters and good mysteries, this book was historically interesting, from the rough ride in the ferry from Calais to Dover, but the battlements and fortress of Dover.
I was in Dover last year, and the French were passive aggressively controlling the border by not having enough border control agents. The truck and car traffic backed up for hours, we couldn't get off the ship and people couldn't get to the ship.
I wish I had known about the battlements.
But I digress. This is not a stand-alone. Please read the series in order, or you will not understand the underlying mystery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book sirens for my EARC. This is of the best historical fiction mystery series I have read. Great characters, good mysteries, and the history is so interesting I am always googling to see the real places.
April 14, 2024
Another great installment in the Duchess collection.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews