Murder on the Cornish Cliffs

Lady Eleanor Swift #16

by Verity Bright

A festive invitation from an old family friend, the promise of gingerbread at the village inn, snowy walks on the Cornish coast with Gladstone the bulldog… But wait, is that a body on the beach?

Winter, 1923. It’s nearly Christmas and Lady Eleanor Swift has received a rather strange letter from an old friend of her uncle. Mr Godfrey Cunliffe has asked her to stay in Cornwall for the holidays – but only because he believes his gardener is trying to poison him! With not a moment to waste Eleanor hurries down to his picturesque manor house with her butler Clifford and handsome beau Detective Hugh Seldon. But they arrive too late to stop the crime…

Lying dead at the bottom of the steep cliffs, however, is not Mr Cunliffe, but the gardener himself. And his plans for restoring the gardens to their former glory are missing. Jerome St Clair has gone from suspect to victim. This certainly puts a twist in the tinsel!

As snow begins to fall, Eleanor quizzes the family. Mr Cunliffe’s alibi is as fragile as the glass baubles hanging from his towering Christmas tree. Eleanor quickly realises everyone from the handyman to the housekeeper is keeping secrets, and she’s convinced that Mr Cunliffe is still scared for his life.

When Gladstone the bulldog pulls a charred corner of the missing garden plans from a fireplace festooned with a gold-ribboned garland, Eleanor thinks the clue she needs is hiding out in the grounds. But when someone tries to run her over with the huge lawnmower, she knows she must wrap up the mystery fast before her Christmas is cancelled for good…

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is a fun, twisty and absolutely gripping historical English cozy mystery, perfect for fans of T.E. Kinsey, Catherine Coles and Agatha Christie.

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

295 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2023

About the author

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

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5★s

Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler, Clifford, along with Gladstone and the cat, were going to be away from Henley Hall for Christmas, spending the time in Cornwall with a friend of Ellie's uncle Byron. The letter he'd sent with his request, also mentioned he was fearful for his life - someone was trying to kill him. The strange atmosphere in the manor house sent chills up and down Ellie and Clifford's spines. When the body of the gardener was discovered about the time they arrived, the confusion about why St Clair died filled all their minds. As Clifford and Ellie searched for clues, doing their usual investigations, they both realised they'd have to get Chief Inspector Seldon, Ellie's fiance and one of the best police officers around, to help them out. Arriving at the nearby village, undercover as it were, Hugh joined them and the three of them dug deeply, asking questions and searching for answers.

But when another person died, Ellie knew the clock was ticking. The ice and snow was thick, the conditions were freezing and danger laced everything around the manor house. Would they discover the killer on this cold, bleak Cornish Christmas?

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is the 16th in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series by Verity Bright and once again I thoroughly enjoyed it. The witty dialogue between Clifford and Ellie never ceases and always makes me smile. The clever deduction about almost non-existent clues continues to baffle and entertain. And Hugh working alongside the two of them made the story even better. Highly recommended.

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

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fun entry in the series! Plus a lighthouse. I’m a sucker for a lighthouse, any time, any where. I’m so glad I saved this for closer to Christmas too. There are some delightful Cornish Christmas traditions woven in and a fun pub celebration on Christmas Day with Hugh, Eleanor, and Clifford enjoying local food and local instruments with fun names and some thoughtful present-giving. I love when the three of them work together and there was a good bit of Hugh in the second half. Clifford is still my favorite though. His Jeeves-like butler-ing abilities are delightful. I also liked the underlying story in this about a father and his sons. It was moving, and I was glad there was reconciliation at the end with Mr Cunliffe and his family. The aunts were so funny with their poetry! Thankfully Clifford was always there to supply the final line. There is always some suspension of disbelief needed in this series (Clifford’s injury, for example), but I didn’t mind it as much in this entry. Not that it’s usually very intrusive though—just sometimes a bit fantastical.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is nearly Christmas and Lady Eleanor Swift is traveling with her butler Clifford, as well as her cat and her dog, Gladstone. Hoping to enjoy the holidays while in Cornwall is something that preens unlikely to happen as they fear that their host, Mr. Godfrey Cunliffe has been murdered.

Eleanor is no stranger to murder and other serious crimes, and she quickly proves that she will go to any lengths necessary to solve the crime at hand. With some assistance from her handsome fiancé, Detective Hugh Sheldon, as well as the ever wise and efficient Clifford, Eleanor begins to question anyone she thinks could be connected to the murder. There is definitely a motive for the crime to be determined, and Eleanor leaves no stone unturned in her investigation.

Eleanor soon learns that just about everyone is a likely suspect, and with a clue ironically revealed by her dog Gladstone, she gets closer and closer to finding the answers she seeks. Sixteen books in and Verity Bright’s stories involving the ever inquisitive Eleanor are always fresh and enjoyable. There is also some humor in each of the stories. Then factoring in the delightful characters, readers can’t go wrong with any Eleanor Swift cozy mystery story.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Bookoture, Verity Bright and NetGalley for the e-arc. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveway.

3.75 stars rounded up

It's Christmas and Lady Eleanor Swift is looking forward to a merry celebration with her friend/butler/bodyguard Clifford and the staff but most especially, she's excited to FINALLY spend Christmas with Detective Hugh Seldon, her fiancé. When a letter from one of Uncle Byron's old friends arrives asking Clifford to help figuring out who is trying to kill him and why, Ellie feels she has no choice but to head to Cornwall, reassure Mr. Godfrey Cunliffe all is well and back home again in time for Christmas. They're greeted by a police inspector with the shocking news someone has died! It's seems they were too late to save Mr. Cunliffe. Not so fast. Mr. Cunliffe turns up alive and well but it was his gardener, the suspected would-be murderer, who fell to his death at the bottom of the cliffs. Mr. Cunliffe is convinced Mr. St. Clair's death was a matter of mistaken identity and someone is still trying to kill him. Can Ellie and Clifford (plus Gladstone and Tompkins) figure it out before Christmas?

This story was a little bit different from the others. The Cornish setting was fun. I love the accents (Poldark, Hagrid from Harry Potter) and could hear the characters speaking in my head. The Christmas customs are quirky and zany and it sounds like a fun celebration in the pub. There were several twists to this mystery I did not see coming and I never once suspected the murderer or the motive. The whole thing took me by surprise! I was a bit confused at first. I missed all the clues Ellie later points out. I didn't think anything of them at the time and neither did she. I was convinced it was someone else entirely. The surprise was actually kind of nice. It was a shock but a good one. I can nitpick little details like it's not a family's choice who to leave the estate to. Most families do leave it to the eldest son. Ellie has two titles from her parents because she's the last of the line not because she's the oldest child. She's the ONLY child and Uncle Byron never had children of his own. Clifford would know this but he chooses when to spar with Ellie.

Ellie and Clifford's relationship is so delightful. I think he loves her like a daughter and I don't think a Clifford's heart was ever stolen by a woman but by Uncle Byron and therefore, Ellie is the daughter of Clifford's heart. They bicker like children though, sometimes on purpose. The dynamic is cute and never goes too far for me. Clifford may be a know-it-all and oh so properly correct but he knows how to relax. He teases Ellie about her stubbornness and her love of food but it's all in good fun. She knows it and he knows she knows it so it doesn't bother her. Ellie is too kind to race off to see Mr. Cunliffe at Christmas, especially when it is supposed to be her first Christmas with Hugh when he's not working. Their relationship is special. Hugh is a good man and he loves Ellie but he knows he can't forbid her from investigating or poking around asking questions. He just wants her to be safe and if he has to help with the investigation, then he'll help, as her assistant, but not as the lead. It could cost him his job if he's found investigating a crime outside his jurisdiction. The solution to that problem is funny and charming. I love the romance between them.

The animal companions are funny and adorable as always. I was excited to have Gladstone discover something that may be a clue, or not. Tompkins also gets involved in the sleuthing, as well as eating. Clifford's solution for taking Tompkins along on their adventures is ingenious. Poor Gladstone is just too heavy.

Mr. Cunliffe is a weird person. He's older and therefore old-fashioned in his outlook on social issues. He feels women and servants are inferior but a male servant is preferable to contact for help than a mere female. He's proud of his family passing their estate down through the male line. His attitude offends Ellie but Clifford, being older and wiser, understands. Clifford doesn't let it bother him. Ellie is offended enough for them both. At that point if I were her, I would have walked away. He asked for her help! Then he claims someone is trying to kill him and his gardener was into the occult. Umm ok... Mr. Cunliffe spied on his gardener and even searched St. Clair's office when St. Clair was out. That's waaaayy uncalled for. This man is paranoid and delusional. Again, if I were Ellie, I would have left. Clifford blames it on Mr. Cunliffe's nervous temperament. Mr. Cunliffe is an anxious man, always worrying and only wishes he had the bravery of Uncle Byron. Uncle Byron wished he was more cautious like his old friend. It's only for Uncle Byron's sake Ellie is helping Mr. Cunliffe.

Mr. Cunliffe's estate, Gwen an Mor, is kind of a weird place too. Inside it's a time capsule of Victorian hideousness, complete with dotty aunts. Outside the gardens are overgrown and wild, with the grounds in the process of being redesigned. The estate is along the cliffs of Cornwall and there's a lighthouse just barely within view. The estate is a character in and of itself.

Mr. St. Clair was engaged as a landscape architect. His job was to redesign the old gardens and make them modern and new. He seems to have been quite talented and passionate about landscape design. I don't see evidence he was a Satanist or whatever Mr. Cunliffe assumes. That's weird and there has to be a plausible explanation for the symbols in his notebook. I can't think of a good reason anyone would want to murder St. Clair. Could be it be possible his slight build was mistaken for Mr. Cunliffe who has a similar build? It wasn't suicide. The young man had a lot to live for.

There are few servants on the estate now. The maid is away nursing a sick family member. There's just the housekeeper/cook, Mrs. Liddicoat, her husband and two under gardeners. Mrs. Liddicoat is creepy. She is superstitious, suspicious, cranky and lazy. She and her husband came with the house and can't be evicted. If anyone is trying to poison Mr. Cunliffe, it is Mrs. Liddicoat. She's creepy. Her husband is even creepier. He's more suspicious and has a nasty temper. He's abusive to his wife and verbally abusive towards strangers, even Ellie, who is supposed to be his "better." I think he's mixed up in the murder somehow.

Mr. St. Clair had two under gardeners working for him. Tristan Brae and Dewi Odgers. They seem suspicious to me. They have a story ready about how Mr. St. Clair was "disturbing the spirits of the garden." Sounds fishy to me. What spirits? Cornish pixies? It could be Cornish superstition so they may not be lying. There's also a suspicious story about Mr. St. Clair and Mrs. Liddicoat. Ew! Creepy! Brae seems to be the smarter of the pair. He's the leader while Odgers is the follower. They seem suspicious to me. I think they're probably smuggling and possibly killed Mr. St. Clair because he was poking about and came across their illegal activities.

Mr. Cunliffe's elderly aunts, Aunt Flora and Aunt Clara live there too, also coming with the house. They're delightfully eccentric. Perhaps in their dotage, playing nursery games with each other. Only Clifford understands them and can keep up. I adore them and their quirky literary game. I didn't catch on but that's my kind of game. I like the way they speak and trying to make sense of what they're saying. I think they know more that they're admitting especially given their prejudices against the police and their "nasty" dirty boots. I also think everyone dismisses them because they're elderly and believed to be senile. Their youngest nephew, a great-nephew, Edwin Marsh, lives there too. He's a piece of work. A lazy, no good young man, he seems to be happy to mooch off his uncle. If his uncle were suddenly to fall off a cliff, Edwin would inherit. He already has his uncle's snootiness and sexist nature. Edwin is a toad and probably up to no good.

Inspector Tevilick is a decent policeman. He hasn't investigated many (any?) murders before but he doesn't seem too in over his head. He's suspicious of newcomers and especially newcomers who turn up whenever there's a dead body. Inspector T is just doing his job. However, he does need Ellie to point him in the right direction sometimes and he's quick to make assumptions and accuse someone without hard evidence. Hugh would never do that! Inspector Tevilick is also quick to share with Ellie once he learns to trust her. I think he's decent and not the usual arrogant or buffonish policeman usually seen in cozy mysteries.

Ellie's friend, Lord Wickhamshaw, is so much fun. He is mad for sport and believes everyone should be, even women. He's all for women competing with men. It makes things more interesting. Would that everyone felt the same way! He provides a key character for reference for Mr. St. Clair, having employed the chap previously. Mr. Penrose, the fisherman, is a delightful minor character. He's old Cornish for sure, a man of the sea and full of old tales and old traditions. I think Ellie would enjoy his company even if she weren't investigating. Woon, a lighthouse keeper, is rather mysterious and sullen. He seems a bit superstitious and hesitant to talk to strangers. Woon, just Woon, is another eccentric Cornishman. I love these bit players who give the story local color.

I enjoyed this mystery very much but it's not my favorite. I missed the ladies and I prefer the stories set at home the best.

[Lady Tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.7 / 5

Whenever I pick up an Eleanor Swift book, I know I'm in for a treat, no matter where she is, what she's doing, or what the mystery is and who the murder turns out to be. Verily, I say, there is always something wonderful in store when it comes to the dynamic duo that is Eleanor Swift and her butler, Clifford!

This latest addition finds her and Clifford in Cornwall, asked/summoned there by an old friend of Eleanor's late uncle. The man, Cunliffe (strange, I've never encountered that surname before), is convinced that someone is out to kill him, and so he's asked for Clifford's help--this in spite of the fact that he's an old prude who disapproves of anything "new", such as treating servants as people and Eleanor's engagement to a "common" police detective.

Ahem, but anyway, we need to cut the old boy some slack, since his gardener, who could have been mistaken for him, was technically murdered. So...we all know what that means, right? Eleanor and Clifford are on the case!

Anyway, despite taking us out of lovely Little Buckford so quickly after returning us there, I think that Eleanor and Clifford still hold up well as a team far from home--especially when a certain handsome police detective joins them, tee hee! Together, they indeed to explore those Cornish cliffs and learn more than one long-held secret in the process!

That being said, among my Eleanor books, this one is getting only a fairly moderate rating--and, after checking my ratings, I know that they all seem to be 5 stars, but even a 0.1 of a star really makes all the difference for where this book fits on my ranking list. If I had to say why or what exactly it is that I found a bit lacking, I suppose a brief little list comes to mind:

- the murderer themselves, for starters, was not as much of a "twists and turns" reveal such as I'm used to for this series. I guessed who it was before the big reveal, and while I wasn't sure, there was a small clue that gave it away, so that was something.

- also, at one point in the novel, I did feel that the plot was dragging a bit as Clifford and Eleanor spent a lot of time searching through the gardens on the manor grounds. Like...yes, this does end up being relevant at the end, and it is kind of interesting and definitely original, but the exploring part itself just went on a bit too long, and I was hoping for a bit more action.

- the climax of the story is a BIT too similar to the one from the last book--aka, Eleanor and Clifford being sabotaged/tricked in a way that forces them to fight for their lives against the elements. This time it was on a dark night in the sea raging against the cliffs, but it still felt kind of like deja vu from being underground together in the last book, and it just wasn't as charming the second time around, although much quicker!

So...*winces* yeah, it seems like this is hitting on a pretty tired out old formula for this series, isn't it? Well...yes and no, but mostly no and let me explain why.

I mentioned in my review for Murder by Invitation that I was concerned about the series, as I noticed that books 14 and 15 were fairly low ranking, which was disappointing given that the series should be on an upward trend if you want to keep it interesting. However, I'm not a quitter when I love something this much, and so I hoped for a slightly better book.

Well, slightly better is what I got, but it's that slight bit that makes all the difference and gives me hope. Some reasons are as follows:

+ the location itself was interesting (on a clifftop, oh my!)

+ the Cornwall traditions were charming, and I found a new Christmas carol to enjoy! (The Carnal and the Crane, check it out, it's quite jaunty!)

+ the characters themselves in the manor were very interesting, especially the two old aunt sisters (NOTE: I kind of wished that the story was more focused on discovering the characters' secrets, including the servants' secrets, as they were all such interesting and different characters that I would have enjoyed the interrogation route more than exploring the garden. True, Eleanor and Clifford did that at the beginning and it was great, but I feel like they could've dug deeper as the plot developed and more people felt like opening up. But, oh well!)4

+ the book itself overall just gave me the warm and happy fuzzies! If the authors perchance read this review, I'd like them to know that this year I wasn't really feeling it or in the mood for anything Christmassy (it's been a rough year for me), but the gift exchange chapter just gave me all the warm feels and got me in a real Christmas mood, so I'll be giving it a try this year as well, and ending off brighter than I would have otherwise. So, truly, thank you for this!

_______________

Therefore and all in all, I would categorize this book as perhaps the start of an upward trend in the series. There's still work to be done in bringing this quite up to the standard of my top 5 in the series, but still, I have hope!

Merry Christmas 2023 to everyone, and a Happier, Brighter Year Ahead!

My Updated Ranking of the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries

1. Death on a Winter's Day (Book 8)
2. Mystery by the Sea (Book 5)
3. A Very English Murder (Book 1)
4. Death Down the Aisle (Book 11)
5. A Witness to Murder (Book 3)
6. Murder at the Fair (Book 6)
7. Death on Deck (Book 13)
8. The French for Murder (Book 10)
9. Murder in an Irish Castle (Book 12)
10. Murder in the Snow (Book 4)
11. Death at the Dance (Book 2)
12. Murder on the Cornish Cliffs (Book 16)
13. Murder in Manhattan (Book 14)
14. A Royal Murder (Book 9)
15. Murder by Invitation (Book 15)
16. A Lesson in Murder (Book 7)

[Linniegayl · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have really enjoyed this historical mystery series featuring Lady Eleanor and her Butler Clifford. This is probably my least favorite in the series so far. it's not bad, it just dragged a lot initially. Fortunately things eventually picked up for me (especially once Ellie's fiance Hugh arrived on the scene). The mystery itself was a bit convoluted, and I definitely didn't guess the villain. In the end the others on scene ask Ellie to explain how she solved the mystery, and she lists three clues that helped her solve the mystery. I was halfway tempted to go back and see if those three clues were obvious and I missed them, but I just didn't like it enough to do so.

All that being said, I'll definitely read the next book, and hope that we get more of Ellie's staff in the book.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun adventure!

It's nearly Christmas in 1923 when Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler, Clifford, are called immediately to Cornwall. It seems that an old friend of her uncle, Godfrey Cunliffe, is convinced that the man he hired to restore the gardens is trying to kill him. Although she hates to leave her fiance, Hugh Seldon, behind, they hurry off arriving in time to find the snow falling and the gardener, Jerome St Clair, lying dead at the bottom of a cliff near the manor house.

This was fast and fun, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Love the details about that time period including the vivid descriptions of Cornwall, the customs, food, dress, and culture. The characters are all great friends by now and I always like catching up with them on their latest mystery. This is a really good historical cozy mystery series, and any fan will not want to miss this latest installment.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend. I urge that you start at the beginning of this series for maximum entertainment.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I was on all the blog tour so I can check and read what I thought. My general impression is a continuous improvement of the plots, an interesting character arc, and a lot of compelling and well written story.
This was the perfect read for me as it talks about gardeners’, garden and the descriptions of places made me wish I could spend Christmastime in Cornwall.
I appreciated this complex whodunnit, I was reading Dancers in Mourning in parallel and appreciated how Verity Bright did an excellent job in recreating the atmosphere and the historical background. Some elements made me also think of Mordecai Tremaine in Murder for Christmas (the festive atmosphere vs the murder)
This is the most complex story in this series and the darker one even if Elly and Clifford banters plus Gladstone did an excellent job in keeping the atmosphere light
An entertaining and well plotted story that I thoroughly enjoyed and grabbed me since the beginning.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Sally906 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs Is book #16 in Lady Eleanor Swift series and the first one I have read. I will certainly be going back to read the previous books.

It is Christmas and Lady Eleanore receives a letter from Mr Cunliffe, old friend of her late Uncle, requesting her presence in Cornwall as he believes his gardener is trying to poison him. Eleanore’s butler, Clifford, warns her that Cunliffe is a strange man, before the two of them rush down to Cornwall only to find the police in attendance - the gardener has been found dead at the bottom of the cliff. Who has killed him? And why? Was the wrong man killed and Mr Cunliffe’s life still in danger?

As snow begins to fall, Eleanor interviews the family members, two batty sisters and a bad-tempered entitled nephew, and is soon convinced everyone is lying - but as someone tries to kill her not once, but twice - she has to find out who it is and stop them.

I for one had not a clue until the big showdown in the cave at the end. And it made complete and utter sense as to why he, she or it was the murderer.

I really enjoyed the story, there was lots of fun back and forth quips between Eleanor and Clifford. Later on the book Eleanor’s fiancé arrives incognito and pretending not to know him on the train and smuggling him into the village inn had me laughing at times.

Having been to Cornwall a few times, I loved reading about the different Cornish customs - and have actually eaten traditional stargazy pie - as a child I didn’t like the fish looking at me, so my nanna use to put little hats on the heads of the fish peeking out of my serve. Brought back fond memories.

I recommend this book, and did not feel as though I have missed out by not reading any of the previous books.

With thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for my copy to review

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is the 16th Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery and I enjoyed it a lot. Eleanor and her butler, Clifford head to Cornwall to see a friend of Ellie's uncle Byron. They received a letter stating he was afraid someone was trying to kill him and asking them to come. They set off in the Rolls with Gladstone, her bulldog and their cat, Tompkins. When they arrive it is to find out that the landscape gardener that Mr. Cunliffe had hired had fallen from the cliffs to his death. Both Eleanor and Clifford were sure it was murder, and they convince the Police Inspector to do an autopsy. It is revealed that he was poisoned and that he was murdered and Mr. Cunliffe is the main suspect. It is time for Eleanor and Clifford to put on their sleuthing hats. The also call in Eleanor's fiancé, Chief Inspector Seldon to help on the sly. He is on vacation, planning to spend Christmas with Eleanor, so agrees to drive down. Will they find out who the real killer is and why St Clair was murdered.

I am enjoying this series and although I have only read the last few, have no problems following the stories. Each mystery is solved within the book, so they can be read as standalone stories. I loved the setting of this story. An old and stately manor house on the cliffs in Cornwall with a storm moving in just before Christmas. The grounds were once an amazing garden with a grotto, raised beds, bamboo and more that was beautifully described even though it was overgrown. The banter and teasing between Clifford and Eleanor always makes me smile and laugh, they are such unlikely pair of Lady and her butler. The way the two of them work together to solve a crime always amazes me with the reasoning and deduction. Clifford had been a world traveler and has so much knowledge. The secondary characters in this book were also interesting. The two older sisters were a hoot, speaking in quotes and poems all the time. Of course I can't forget Gladstone and Tompkins. Completely spoiled members of the family, they also play an important role rooting out clues to help solve the mystery, and they make me smile. This was another wonderful historical mystery and I have to say the Lady Eleanor is one I want to see more of for a long time. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, especially historical ones, then I recommend you pick up this book, or better yet, start at the beginning of this series and enjoy them all.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s always a treat to spend Christmas with Eleanor and the gang!

Though the mysteries in this series have begun to feel a bit formulaic, the characters continue to be endearing and I love the historical context and the author’s notes on them at the end of each story.

I personally tend to prefer the series installments where the characters travel away from Henley Hall, and this one did notably well with setting. I really enjoyed all the lighthouse tidbits, as well as the well-rendered details about the property.

And of course, you can never go wrong with a bit of Crowley lore, though I wish this had figured more into the story and perhaps into the solve of the mystery.

As always, the Verity Bright team does a terrific job with the historical notes, which are often as much fun to read as the novel itself. Even if an entry in the notes is something I already know about, I always find myself enjoying whatever the authors have to say.

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift was looking forward to a cosy Christmas with her fiance, loyal butler, and friendly staff, as they all enjoyed the traditions of the festive season. Instead, Clifford drives her to the wilds of Cornwall in response to a cry for help from a friend of her late uncle who is sure his life is in danger.

Arriving at their temporary home just outside the village of Lostenev, Eleanor and Clifford discover a strong police presence; could they have arrived too late? As the weather closes in and clues are hard to come by, the intrepid pair have to keep one step ahead of a desperate killer intending to make this Christmas Eleanor's last!

The 16th book in this much loved series is, once again, a festive treat! I loved the
two slightly batty aunts and the sullen nephew who would drive anyone to distraction! Having Cornish relatives, I thoroughly enjoyed the historic references to how Christmas was celebrated and Eleanor's enthusiasm to join in with everything. The relationship between Clifford and his mistress was far more lighthearted this time, which was fun, but I do wonder if he might be more circumspect once they return home! As for whodunnit, I'd discarded the culprit without a second thought, I shall be far more suspicious next time!

I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is another brilliant addition to an excellent series and highly recommended. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

[Nanette Williamson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always enjoy the buler and the pets!

[Sheila Higgs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent as usual

[marita lazarus · Rating 4 out of 5]

this is such a wonderful cozy. Clifford and Lay Eleanor are spending Christmas in the Cornish seaside - what could possibly happen. MURDER AND MAYHEM and this time Seldon joins in on the fun. I really enjoyed this mystery and it was fun seeing the dynamics at play.

I can't wait for the next installment.

[Keely · Rating 3 out of 5]

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


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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

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


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

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

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

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





FOR READERS AFTER BOOK 13;

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

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always a delightful distraction.

[Joy Williams · Rating 2 out of 5]

struggled with this one

I really struggled to get int9 this one. I found even by a third of the way through I had no empathy with any of the characters and still waiting for the plot to start. I have loved the previous books so hoping this is just a blip for me and No 17 will be fab.

[K McKenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The latest in the Lady Eleanor Swift series has Elly and Clifford answering a plea for help from an old family friend in Cornwall. Her plans for a quick visit and a return home in time for the holidays fall by the wayside as they get drawn into another murder mystery. The writing is good as always, with an interesting mystery and some of the favorite characters from the series. These are always good, light entertainment, and the Cornish setting and holiday theme are nice touches. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Merry · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the most part these books have been entertaining. However, to the author(s) I ask why certain wording is used over and over again. By the time I got to the end of Murder on the Cornish Cliffs I wanted to scream ..... flap, flapped, flapping of hands, lace collars, etc., etc. Imagine that at least 10 times a chapter for every chapter of 16 books. Good grief. Where are your editors?

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

December 1923. Ellie is getting ready to celebrate the Christmas holiday with the dearest people in her life: her fiancé, Detective Hugh Seldon; her butler, Clifford; and the lively ladies on her staff. But all that is turned on its ear when a letter arrives from a Mr. Godfrey Cunliffe, an old friend of Ellie’s Uncle Byron. He suspects his life is in danger, and he’s asking for assistance.

So Ellie and Clifford, along with the bulldog Gladstone and the ginger cat Tompkins, pack up the Rolls and head off to Cornwall, to Mr. Cunliffe’s ancestral home of Gwel an Mor. They arrive to find police cars in the drive and fear that they’re too late. But Mr. Cunliffe is unexpectedly alive and well. His gardener, Jerome St. Clair, has met an untimely end, and now Mr. Cunliffe fears St. Clair’s killer mistook the gardener for him. So he still fears for his life, but he’s less than pleased about having to resort to help from a woman. He isn’t much happier about help from a male servant, and sometimes it seems like he’d rather have no help at all.

There is so much to enjoy in this story! Gwel an Mor is a truly Gothic pile, complete with a layabout nephew and two dotty old aunts (who may or may not be as dotty as they seem). And there’s no shortage of skullduggery on the grounds. The gardens that St. Claire was hired to bring back to their former glory are really a hot mess, and what have the under-gardeners got up to in the bits that haven’t yet been cleared off? What about Mr. and Mrs. Liddicoat, the servants who came with the house? Cornwall has a past rich in smuggling. Are any or all of them up to old tricks in modern times, perhaps?

The nearby village offers loads of Cornish color, and it was delightful! I loved the Christmas traditions that the villagers shared with Ellie and Clifford, and how they jump right in and take part. The descriptions of the food were a lot of fun for me, too. Some sounded like things I might try, some not so much.

And I also loved the way Bright worked Hugh into the story. He can’t investigate a crime outside his jurisdiction, so they find a way to get around that. No, I’m not telling you how – read the book!

The lighthouse was another integral and interesting part of the story. Its history gives some insight into Cunliffe’s family, and the lighthouse keeper (Woon – just Woon) is able to share some useful details with Ellie and Clifford.

There’s no shortage of tight spots, either. Some, like Ellie driving the lumbering Rolls on narrow Cornish cliffside roads (I could picture Clifford clinging firmly to the “oh sh!t” handle above the window – would a Rolls have one of those, do you think?), are more comical than others, when I was truly concerned for our dynamic duo. But, as you probably figured, none of the tight spots are inescapable.

The murderer was not who I expected, and many things were not what they first appeared. Bright brings all the threads together in a most satisfactory conclusion, and now I’m left waiting eagerly for the next book in the series.

A Christmas setting, a house that’s a character in and of itself, witty banter between Eleanor and Clifford, twists and turns and fascinating characters – once again, Verity Bright has given us a charmer of a book! Eleanor Swift remains solidly on my list of favorite amateur sleuths.

Disclaimer: Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a review copy. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.

[Vivienne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“He sighed. ‘I meant ask how it is that I let you out of my sight for two minutes and you are knee deep in dead bodies? Again!’”

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

This is Book 16 in the delightful Lady Eleanor Swift series of historical cosy mysteries set in the early 1920s. I again complemented my reading with its unabridged audiobook edition, narrated by Karen Cass.

Background is provided for new readers and each book works fine on its own, though I feel it’s rewarding to read these books in order to appreciate how the characters have developed over the course of the series.

In this outing Lady Eleanor (Ellie) and her faithful butler, Clifford, head to Cornwall just before Christmas. Mr Godfrey Cunliffe, an old friend of her late uncle, has written with concerns that his life is in danger. He doesn’t want to involve the police but hopes Ellie can help.

So along with Clifford, Gladstone, the bulldog, and Tomkins, the ginger cat, they arrive at the picturesque manor, Gwel an Mor, and find that the police are in attendance. Are they too late?

Yet it quickly emerges that it is Cunliffe’s gardener, Jerome St Clair, who is dead. His body was found on the beach at the bottom of a steep cliff. In addition, his plans for restoring the gardens to their former glory are missing. It seems that Mr Cunliffe had suspected that St Clair was the one threatening his life, though given their similar build, he now is concerned about an unknown third party having killed the wrong man.

As her reputation for solving murders proceeds her, Inspector Trevilick of the local police seems quite happy for Eleanor to question family members and staff to discover the truth. It emerges that there are plenty of secrets and the rather stuffy Mr Cunliffe remains scared for his life.

As Christmas is approaching, Eleanor invites her fiancé, Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, to join them in Cornwall though it is decided that he do so under an alias as not to upset the local police. Still, this allows him to make his own discrete enquiries without stepping on any official toes. No further details to avoid spoilers.

This was quite a complex whodunnit with plenty of interesting twists and some scary situations for Ellie and Clifford. Verity Bright made great use of the Cornish setting with its rich folklore and history of shipwrecks and smuggling.

Still, while there are some life threatening situations, the authors find a good balance and include the antics of Gladstone and Tomkins as well as plenty of Christmas cheer.

I especially enjoyed the tour undertaken by Ellie and Clifford of the extensive gardens at Gwel an Mor with its many features seeking to solve the coded clues that they had found in the murder victim’s notebook. It was described very vividly and I felt as though I was witnessing it first hand.

The banter between Ellie and Clifford is delightful as always as are the antics of the animals. It was lovely to see Hugh being more playful as he adopted his new identity while in Cornwall.

Verity Bright closes the book with a few historical notes on Cornish customs, lighthouses, seagull recipes, Cornish pixies, and the like.

Overall, I found ‘Murder on the Cornish Cliffs’ another delightful adventure for Lady Eleanor Swift and friends. I am always happy to recommend this book and the series as a whole. Given its Christmas theme, it also is ideal for a cosy festive read.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Murder on the Cornish Cliffs

Rating: ★★★★★/5 Stars

If you're in need of a delightful and engaging mystery to cozy up with this holiday season, look no further than Verity Bright's "Murder on the Cornish Cliffs." Set in picturesque Cornwall, this book transports readers to a festive world filled with intriguing characters, a twisty plot, and a charming bulldog named Gladstone.

Lady Eleanor Swift, our witty and intelligent protagonist, receives an unusual invitation from an old family friend. Mr. Godfrey Cunliffe fears for his life, suspecting his gardener of foul play. Determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, Eleanor embarks on a journey to Cornwall, accompanied by her loyal butler Clifford and her bulldog Gladstone. However, when they arrive at Mr. Cunliffe's manor house, they find not the intended victim, but the gardener himself dead at the bottom of the cliffs.

As snow blankets the Cornish coast, Eleanor takes it upon herself to investigate the murder. She soon discovers that everyone in the household has something to hide, and she becomes convinced that Mr. Cunliffe is still in grave danger. With the help of Gladstone, who uncovers a vital clue in the form of charred garden plans, Eleanor races against time to solve the case before her own life is threatened.

Verity Bright has crafted another enchanting addition to her historical cozy mystery series. The festive setting adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to this already captivating tale. The plot is intricately woven with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Just when you think you've figured it out, Bright surprises you with another clever red herring.

The characters in "Murder on the Cornish Cliffs" are a delight to follow. Lady Eleanor Swift is a formidable and relatable heroine, with her sharp wit and unwavering determination. Clifford, her trusty butler, provides a touch of comic relief and unwavering loyalty. And let's not forget Gladstone the bulldog, whose antics bring a smile to your face.

As a fan of this cozy mystery series, I can't help but fall in love with each new installment. Verity Bright's writing style is engaging and immersive, making it difficult to put the book down. Her attention to detail brings the 1920s era to life, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

In conclusion, "Murder on the Cornish Cliffs" is a delightful and satisfying read that will transport you to a bygone era filled with mystery and holiday cheer. Verity Bright's ability to create a captivating plot, coupled with her endearing characters, makes this book a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this enchanting series.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

[BookswithLydscl | · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a DRC of "Murder on the Cornish Cliffs" (Released December 2023) in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.

The Lady Eleanor Swift set of books is probably my favourite golden age style historical murder mystery series and this latest instalment is no different in that it gives us yet again an intriguing, fun read with a great mystery, lively cast of characters and wonderfully atmospheric setting.

This time we see Eleanor and Clifford (accompanied by the terrible twosome of Gladstone and Tompkins) heading to Cornwall just before Christmas at the behest of an old friend of Eleanor's late Uncle Byron - Mr Cunliffe. Believing he might become a murder victim at the hands of his gardener he has asked them to join him over the Christmas holidays to stop whatever nefarious plot is underway. Unfortunately they arrive too late and there is already a body - that of the gardener himself found at the bottom of the cliffs. What follows is a classic case of murder, intrigue, red herrings and as always, plenty of food and drink for our motley crew to enjoy whilst mulling over the clues.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story with it's gothic setting and characters, and plenty of classic adventure plot points which all end up reading very Daphne du Maurieresque. The assorted supporting cast make for a wide and varied suspect list giving the reader plenty of opportunities to follow dead ends in an effort to solve the case ourselves.

I loved that I had an inkling of who the murderer may be but that I had no clue for the motive or for the very touching final conclusions. There is peril, and mayhem and it's all pretty perfectly plotted and paced to keep the action and the case moving. I enjoyed the historical aspects of the story that were intertwined into the story as well as the introduction of Cornish traditions which made for lively additions to the plot.

As always, when they're not around I did miss the presence of the Henley Hall ladies but I think the more gothic and darker tone of this story meant that they may have actually been a distraction rather than adding to the book. I'm glad we found a way for Hugh to be involved and I love the balance we're seeing now between him and Eleanor as, book by book, they get more comfortable with each other.

This has been one of my favourites in the series for while and you won't be disappointed whether you're new to the series of an old hand like me.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder on the Cornish Cliffs" in exchange for my honest review.

This book is number 16 in the excellent Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series. Ellie and her butler Clifford have been summoned to help Godfrey Cunliffe in Cornwall. He insists that someone is planning to kill him. Our wonderful duo travel to Cornwall along with my favourite character Master Gladstone, the willful bulldog and his best friend Tompkins the cat.

Ellie inherited Henley Hall when her uncle Lord Byron Henley passed away. Clifford and Ellie have a fun relationship and it's always a treat to have them bickering on the pages. They are a fantastic crime solving duo because we have learned in previous books - Ellie has a way of attracting deceased persons.

When they arrive they find a suspicious death but it's not who they were expecting. Jerome Withenhall St. Clair was the gardener, hired to bring the neglected gardens back to their former glory. Mr. Cunliffe is convinced that the gardener was killed in a case of mistaken identity. Ellie and Clifford meet probably the most interesting cast of characters they have ever come across including Aunt Flora and Clara who are equal parts charming and confusing. There are many bizarre conversations.

As always there are several attempts made on Ellie's life, Clifford is inquired and joining them to help out undercover (as he is far out of his jurisdiction) is Ellie's fiancé CI Hugh Seldon. When another body turns up Ellie feels that there is more going on here than someone trying to kill Mr. Cunliffe. There is smuggling going on, some shady household staff, a police inspector who is happy arresting the wrong person on several occasions.

The description of the gardens is so lush and detailed that the reader will feel that they are making each discovery with Ellie and Clifford. The writing in this book is absolutely brilliant as you can feel that you are standing on the Cornish Cliffs and looking at the lighthouse. This story is set during Christmas and New Year's - as they are away from Henley Hall - all the ladies are missing from this story but the dialogue between Ellie and Clifford in this story has never been better! The historical notes at the end of the book are always appreciated as they are informative and add background to the story. This was definitely a more than 5 star story!

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again I've been thoroughly entertained by Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift and her butler, Clifford, as they investigate another murder, this time in Cornwall.

A few days out from Christmas, Ellie and Clifford are invited to Gwel an Mor, the estate of Godfrey Cunliffe, a friend of Ellie's late Uncle Byron, to investigate the attempts on his life. They arrive to find the local police in attendance lead by an Inspector Trevilick, who informs them a body has been found at the base of the cliffs. Relieved to hear it is not their host but someone who resembled him, his gardener, gives credence to the threats.

The eccentricity of Cunliffe and his family, the reluctance of the staff to be questioned, the suggestion of devil worship, the suspicious activities of the under-gardeners and the knowledge that the local police inspector knows what they are about, hampers Ellie and Clifford's investigation. However, our duo never refuse a challenge. They gradually uncover the secrets of the garden and of those who live at Gwel an Mor – with the help of Hugh Seldon, of course, who goes under cover as an estate agent. Who the murderer turned out to be was a surprise.

Skillfully woven into the investigation are attempts on Ellie and Clifford's lives; snatched meetings with Hugh; the delightful presence of the inseparable Gladstone and Tomkins, the canine and feline stars; and the festive traditions and food of Cornwall and how the village of Lostenev celebrates Christmas. Stargazy pie and limpets are on the menu for Ellie to sample. She's even game to eat a horse's leg which she assumes is traditional fare until informed that it is a musical intrument.

Adding to the festive spirit is a lovely description of the Christmas Day luncheon table decked out in its finery, not to mention the huge decorated Christmas tree in the hall of Gwel an Mor, which takes Ellie by surprise.

Sadly, the other members of the Henley Hall staff have been left at home this time but are not forgotten, with references made to them.

This is a great festive read and, as well as the highlights already mentioned, includes snowy landscapes, some lovely romantic moments between Ellie and Hugh and the amusing banter that followers of this series have come to expect from the main characters.

As always, after having finished the latest Lady Swift mystery, I'm looking forward to the next one, which takes Ellie and her entourage to Venice.

*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com

[Lynsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Murder on the Cornish Cliffs’ was a fun, big house-type mystery that kept me guessing right until the very end! This is the 16th book in the series but it can easily be read as a standalone mystery. I do recommend reading the series though as it has been a joy to read about Lady Swift and her merry band of helpers!

Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler Clifford are making their way to spend some time in Cornwall. They received a letter from an old family friend Mr Cunliffe who needs their help on an investigation, he fears for his life. When they arrive at his estate, they are meet by the police as the estate’s gardner Jerome St Clair has been found death at the bottom of the cliffs! Of course, Ellie and Clifford jump into investigative mode and starts to quiz the staff and residents of the house. Mr Cunliffe thinks it was a case of mistaken identity and that he was meant to be the victim. Will Ellie manage to find out who the killer is before they strike again?

I loved this book! I like it when Ellie goes on her adventures. It brings some freshness into the series with the change of location. Once again it had all the hallmarks of what makes this series great in my eyes - fun, brilliant characters and a mystery that keeps you guessing. Lady Eleanor Swift is one of my favourite characters as she is very quirky and not really of her time. She is fun and feisty, loves a mystery and a good scran! She is loving and kind and doesn't think in the way most aristocrats of her age do! I love her relationship with Clifford, her butler. To me that is the true love story that runs through this series.

This was a great mystery and I definitely did not guess who the bad guy was at all! I thought the resolution to part of the mystery was very poignant and it tugged at my heartstrings. Oh, the crazy Aunts were brilliant as well, I could very easily picture them and they were a hoot to read about. I flew through this in one sitting and the pacing and atmosphere of the book were brilliant. The tension ramped up to a great conclusion and I loved all the references to the snow and Christmas! Once again it was a brilliant read and a great addition to the series.

Let me know if you pick this one up!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs by Verity Bright is another adventure for Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler, Clifford. They have been accompanied by Gladstone and Tomkins, a fairly recent addition to the household. The dog and cat get along well, too well sometimes. Clifford has been summoned by Mr. G Cunliffe, a friend of Eleanor’s now deceased uncle. He appears to be in fear for his life. Clifford feels sure he is exaggerating and that they they will be returning home before Christmas. Also living in the household are two aunts, and a nephew. The great aunts are peculiar, to put a name to it, and the nephew seems a little odd as well. They arrive just as the police are there questioning the household regarding the death of Cunliffe’s landscape architect who had recently been discovered at the bottom of a nearby cliff. There are some things that both Clifford and Ellie find odd about the crime scene, and truthfully about Uncle Brian’s friend. It doesn’t look like they will make it home for Christmas, after all.

Ellie, Clifford, the animals, and Ellie’s fiance, Chief Inspector Seldon continue to make up an entertaining group of friends. They have called Seldon to have him appear in the village in in cognito as none of the villagers wants to talk to Ellie. Interestingly, it is Ellie sho saves Clifford this time, with the knowledge of water and boats she acquired as a child when traveling with her parents. She is a marvelous character, new to the aristocracy at a time when than institution is in flux. Clifford is the consummate butler always knowing his place and trying to teach her hers. They are all pretty proper although Ellie is winning in pulling them her way. This is a delightful series. It is an English cozy and well worth reading. Seldon being the fiance is fairly new and extremely delightful. Ellie causes him a lot of worry as she is fearless and he is protective. A good mystery and a happy solution for all. Well worth the read.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Murder on the Cornish Cliffs by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #VerityBright #MurderOnTheCornishCliffs

[Bargain Sleuth Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift is back with another Golden Age mystery, and I couldn’t be happier. The mysteries have become some of my favorite historical murder mysteries since discovering them last year. One of the things I love about them is that each book can be read as a standalone mystery, meaning you need not have read the previous 15 volumes to enjoy this book. However, once you read one of the books, you’ll probably be like me and read the back catalog.

This time we see Eleanor and her ever trusty butler, Clifford, as well as her pets, Gladstone and Tompkins, are heading to Cornwall just before Christmas at the request of an old friend of Eleanor’s late Uncle Byron – Mr. Cunliffe. You see, he’s afraid of being poisoned by the gardener. By the time Eleanor and company arrive, there’s already a dead body, but it is not of Cunliffe but the gardener himself. What follows is a classic case of murder and intrigue, along with enough food and drink to feed an army while they discuss the clues. And along the way, another murder comes to light. The race is on for Eleanor to find the murder or murderers.

There are plenty of classic adventure vibes with a gothic twist, too. The assorted supporting cast make for a wide and varied suspect list giving the reader plenty of opportunities to follow leads and come to dead ends while trying to figure out who the murderer was. I thought I knew who the murderer was but had to keep reading to figure out the motive. I appreciated the fact that Eleanor knew she was in over her head and called for reinforcements in the form of her fiancé, detective Hugh Seldon. IT was great to read their interplay and developing relationship continue to blossom.

There’s just enough Cornish history and customs to make this mystery more interesting. Let’s hear it for pasties, which made their way from Cornwall to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where miners often took the meat pies to work, wrapped in foil to keep them warm. My parents were raised in the U.P., and while neither was of Cornish descent, the pasty became a staple in both their houses growing up and continued the tradition with their kids and grandkids.

For me, it’s another solid entry in this series that I’ve grown to admire. I highly recommend this series if you like cozy mysteries, the Golden Age, and plucky women in a historical setting but have modern sensibilities.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the eARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

For more reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is the sixteenth delightful instalment of Verity Bright’s charming 1920s set mystery series featuring sleuth extraordinaire Lady Eleanor Swift.

Christmas is fast approaching and Eleanor receives a very strange letter from an old friend of her uncle’s, Mr Godfrey Cunliffe, who is inviting her to stay with him in his home in Cornwall over the festive period – because he is convinced that his gardener is trying to kill him! With no time to lose, Eleanor packs her bags and heads over to the Cornish coast with her butler Clifford and handsome beau Detective Hugh Seddon. However, it seems that they are too late because a murder has been committed – only it’s not Mr Cunliffe, but his gardener!

Jerome St Clair went from prime suspect to victim and with his plans to restore the gardens to their former glory having also gone missing, Eleanor immediately smells a rat. It seems everybody in this household is keeping secrets – and had reasons of their own for wanting the gardener dead. But which one of them did it? When Eleanor’s bulldog Gladstone pulls out a charred corner of the missing garden plans from the fireplace, she realises that she is close to solving this case – until someone tries to run her down with a lawnmower!

Can Eleanor get to the bottom of her investigation? Or is this Christmas going to be her last?

I cannot recommend Verity Bright’s superb Lady Eleanor Swift series enough. Fast-paced, exciting and full of twists and turns, these fabulous mysteries never fail to please and Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is the latest fantastic tale of secrets, skullduggery and chicanery that I devoured in a single sitting.

Unpredictable, nail-biting and so much fun, Murder on the Cornish Cliffs is another winner by Verity Bright.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.