A Killer in the Wings

Lord Edgington Investigates #11

by Benedict Brown

A murder on the stage of a packed theatre, a company of actors ripped apart by rivalries, and a secret that has simmered for decades.England, 1927. When an actor is killed during the performance of a new mystery play, his colleagues refuse to believe it was an accident and turn to Lord Edgington for help. The renowned detective must navigate a labyrinth of deceit to solve the crime, but when every possible culprit is on the cast list, it’s hard to know who’s telling the truth and who’s playing a part.

To save the other actors from the killer’s knife, the master sleuth and his loyal grandson race to outwit their opponent, but will they unravel the tangled threads of the case before more lives are claimed?

Set against the backdrop of the opulent theatres and luxurious hotels of London's West End in the twenties, "A Killer in the Wings" is a witty and suspenseful whodunit with a cast of devious suspects and a carefully twisting plot that will leave you guessing until the curtain falls.

This is the eleventh novel in the bestselling “Lord Edgington Investigates…” series, but it can be read as a spoiler-free, standalone mystery.

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Historical, Fiction, Historical Mystery, Historical Fiction, British Literature

293 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 22, 2023

About the author

Writing has always been my passion. It was my favourite hour a week at primary school, and I started on my first, truly abysmal book as a teenager. So it wasn’t a difficult decision to study literature at university which led to an MA in Creative Writing. I spent a long time writing kids’ books, including funny fairy tales, dystopic adventures and serious issue-based YA, before switching to murder mysteries last year.

I grew up in a crime fiction family and spent a long time dreaming up the idea for my detective Izzy Palmer’s debut novel. A Corpse Called Bob is my first full-length book for adults in what is already becoming a long series.

I’m a Welsh-Irish-Englishman originally from South London but now living with my French/Spanish wife and slightly muddled daughter in Burgos, a beautiful city in the north of Spain. I write overlooking the Castilian countryside, trying not to be distracted by the vultures and red kites that fly past my window each day.

Reviews

[Chautona Havig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done, Christopher.
I really loved seeing him having to think clearly and do things--and that he didn't see really what was going on. He stayed himself AND... grew as well. THIS right here... this made it five stars for me. It's so hard to do that well.

I also loved getting to meet Marius Quinn BEFORE his own series, so that was fun. I'm impatient to get to the next.

So while I found the whodunnit pretty easy on this and it might have sent me in a four-star direction usually... Meeting Marius and how brilliantly Brown is handling Christopher... Definitely five-star worthy right there.

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ahhh, how entertaining and enjoyable was my last Kinde Unlimited selection before expiration of subscription. I always enjoy the interchange between the grandfather and grandson, but this one takes us to London's theatre district where a mystery needs to be solved. A fun outing and good descriptions of theatre life in 1920s London.

Kindle Unlimited

[Gillie Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve loved this series but this one didn’t do it for me.

[NONA MASON]

I am so waiting for the new book. I live for Benedict Browns books. Thank you for the fantastic way to entertain your audience.

[Amanda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christopher finally did it! He solved the case solo this time. His grandfather was kind of a turd and gave him the wrong answer to make it harder for him to solve, but Chrissy showed his skills and completely solved the mystery.

His proud grandpa considers his training a success! I'm looking forward to the next book. So far, it is the last one that has an audible book created. Hopefully the latest two books will come out in audiobook form soon! 🤞

[JODI S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! I was happy to see Marmaduke return to play a part in the mystery. My only wish is that there could have been more of him.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was wonderful to see Lord Edgington step back a bit and let Christopher take more responsibility in the investigation is exciting and sad. Christopher is growing as a person and a Detective which is wonderful, but I love Lord Edgington so much I don't want him to step back too far. Having Lord Edgington encourage Chrissy to take center stage (sorry about that ) shows that his faith in his grandson's detective abilities is growing.

The scenes where Chrissy is watching the play were mesmerizing for me. I felt like I was actually there, watching the play with him. I also loved the parts of this book where Lord Edgington took over as narrator. To me this made it even more interesting to see things from a different perspective.

Bringing back Marmaduke was great too. He is an interesting character who has grown so much since we first met him. I am glad to see that he is no longer under his horrible father's control.  I hope he shows up in more books.

I love this book series and I am looking forward to reading the next book.

[Ka · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave this book a slightly higher rating than all the previous books in the series because I definitely enjoyed it the most so far! This one is a murder mystery set in a London theatre, and all the suspects are actors with big personalities. The "play within a play" aspect of the story is fun, especially since of course we the readers are seeing all of this happen within yet ANOTHER story (this book). I enjoyed keeping track of all the characters and such. This series has a low-key charm and it took several books for me to really care what happened to the characters, but now that I know them well, I enjoy reading about their cozy exploits.

In this book, Lord Edgington (rather meanly, it must be said) also forces Christopher to really be the detective. He does this by pretending to be incompetent and ridiculous. Eventually, Christopher does find his feet and solves the crime, which is lucky as he is forced to do so in front of literally everyone he knows PLUS the London press corps... Lord E claims that if he had REALLY seen Christopher struggling he would have helped, but as an introvert myself, I still felt terrible for Chrissy, being put under all that public pressure to perform.

I was also happy that Marmaduke returned as a minor character in this book, as he is a character I like, and we meet a new character, a mystery writer named Marius Quin, who attempts to help Chrissy solve the case. I found him very charming and likable, so when the author mentions in his notes at the end of the book that this character is actually going to get his own spin-off mystery series, I was pleased to hear it! I look forward to checking them out.

[John Presler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Edgington and Christopher get a surprise visit from Marmaduke Adelaide, an aspiring actor. Marmaduke is performing in A Killer in the Wings. It is based on a mystery written by a young author, Marius Quinn. During one of the rehearsals, one of the actors in the play, Peter Radcliffe, was killed when an axe attached to a suit of armor hit him on the head. Some people are trying to write if off as an accident, but Marmaduke thinks it was murder. Marmaduke explains that there have been more accidents lately, which is why he is requesting Lord Edgington's help. As Lord Edgington, Chrissy, and Marmaduke enter the theater, they hear the director, Colin West, proclaiming that the show is cursed and he is leaving. This forces Marius Quinn to take over the directing duties if the show has any chance of being shown. When Brian Grimage is found dead, it convinces Lord Edgington that there is a killer on the premises. Lord Edgington tells Chrissy that he knows who the killer is, but challenges him to resolve the case out on his own.

Was Peter's death an accident or murder? Who killed Brian? Can Christopher put the pieces together to solve the mystery? Is the killer who Lord Edgington says it is?

Benedict Brown has created a unique story with this latest mystery. With wonderful characters and intriguing situations, this mystery is guaranteed to keep the reader engaged clear to the end.

[Eva Torino]

A Killer in the Wings" isn’t your typical crime thriller. It doesn't rely on clichés or predictable plot twists. Instead, it carefully builds suspense through slow-burning tension, layered characters, and a gripping mystery that keeps readers on edge.

The story follows a once-promising stage actress who returns to the theater world, only to find herself entangled in a string of deadly events. What starts as a comeback turns into a psychological maze, where every person on stage might be hiding something—and someone is willing to kill to keep the spotlight.

What makes A Killer in the Wings stand out is its deep character development. The suspects aren’t just names on a list; they’re complex individuals with motives, secrets, and regrets. And just when you think you’ve figured it out—something changes.

The writing is tight and immersive, making it perfect for fans of slow-burn mysteries and psychological drama. It’s not about gore or shock—it's about atmosphere, mind games, and tension.

If you're someone who enjoys mental puzzles as much as emotional storytelling, this book delivers on all fronts.

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[Glenn Younger · Rating 3 out of 5]

Christopher’s convoluted coming of age

Christopher, Lord Edgington’s grandson and detective protégée, comes into his own in book 11 of the series. Although I’m happy about this, I do wish it had happened in a story that was a little easier to follow.

The stage of the whodunnit is set… on a stage. Written with a stage play story within the mystery story, it took too much work to keep track of who is who playing whom and doing what in the stage play as well as in the story. Add on the fact that there is a third mystery that took place 40 years ago… agh! Too much for a light whoddunit read that the series normally offers. The addition of Lord Edgington’s evaluation of the stage play interspersed in the story doesn’t help lighten the load, either.

That being said, this hasn’t turned me off the series. Christopher’s inner dialogue was still fun to read and the dialogue between he and his grandfather had its tongue-in-cheek lightness. I’ll happily read book 12 to see what comes next in Christopher’s training under Lord Edgington’s nimble mind as retired Inspector of Scotland Yard.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW Benedict Brown can sure write an amazing story of comedic intrigue and he constantly out does himself with each mystery he gives us, which he has proven in his eleventh enjoyable mystery with Lord Eddington and his grandson Christopher two very entertaining characters that have been surrounded by colorful, quirky and charming characters that draw you within the first chapter carrying you through out the fabulous plot with intrigue, secrets, betrayal and murder. This mystery keeps you captivated with challenging twists and turns following leads through London's famous theater and renowned hotels in it's central uptown niebourhood .I read it through in one sitting interrupted only to fix another cupa and nature. The caliber of Mr Brown's writing carries you from page to exciting page not letting you go until you've reached its very unexpected and quite climatic conclusion. Acquire " A Killer in the Wings " )Lord Eddington Investigates...... Book 11) for hours of intriguing and acquisitive enjoyable entertainment .Kat

[Jessi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chrissy is about to take on the first murder where his grandfather lets him take point. Well, really he's being pushed into the lead. While his grandfather has taken something of a backseat, he has already declared a killer, it's up to Christopher to figure out who.
The book opens on a murder mystery play. Except one of the players is actually murdered on stage. It just so happens that his understudy is Marmaduke, Christopher's former bully now friend. At least Christopher thinks they might be friends. But, there hasn't been a likely murder in a while so Lord Edgington loads up the car and sends them on thir way. Eventually, as usual, the entire manor ends up in London as his lordship can't seem to travel without them.
There are a number of stars in this particular play, some of whom have known each other for a very long time, some who are newer on the scene. The actual mystery is a little thin but the descriptions of the locations, as always, are worth the read.
Three and a half stars rounded up for Goodreads

[Teddi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed previous books in this series but this one felt different. I cant put my finger on exactly why I didn't enjoy it but a few things come to mind.
It felt heavier and didn't really have any funny moments other than Marmaduke acting like an idiot.
The family and servants only have cameo appearances.
There was a LOT of talking and not much "doing".
It was complicated by introducing the plot of the play as a secondary storyline.
We are also introduced to Marius Quin who is going to be the star of a future series of books. I wasn't impressed by his character in this book who seemed a bit too mild mannered. The only part of his story that interested me was the mention of his nutty relatives.
I think a big change in this series is that Christopher is now basically an adult who talks back to his grandfather and is more confident and capable of solving the mystery on his own. I think I liked the dynamic more when he was younger.

[Jules Bellone · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a Lord Edgington and Chrissy fan...hard core, but this book was hard for me to get into...and stay into.

SPOLIERS (mild) AHEAD:

The play notes/play within a play/actual story was hard to follow, mostly because there was the introduction of all of the characters that the suspects/victims/etc. were also portraying. It was too heavy on characters and it was very "wordy". There was a lot of "talking" and very little action.

I did like that Chrissy was finally allowed to take the lead (well, got thrown the lead) and solved the case. After ten other books and umpteen murders, I felt it was his time.

Don't get me wrong, I am already getting to put the next book in my next two or three reads, it is just this book was written and formatted different and it wasn't my cup of tea, shall we say.

[Anne Kavcic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christopher's school friend Marmaduke is an actor in a play in London, and has a new role because one actor has died. Supposedly it was an accident, but Marmaduke isn't convinced, and makes a grand entrance at Lord Edgington's to ask him to investigate, hoping to prevent another actor's death. And they're off! Twists and turns abound, as do superstitions and mishaps. Witty as usual, as well as exciting, there are also quite a few historical references woven in, including items about the Hotel Savoy. And notes at the end for those, like me, who want even more. - I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.

[June Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravo Mr Brown! Another brain twister

I have read all eleven books in this series and each one is better than the last. I have yet to uncover the killer in any of the books before the ending reveal. Lord Edgington and Crissy have became old friends that I can't wait to see what they get up to next. If you want a good mystery without graphic violence and icky sex and love a good giggle and witty humour, this is the author and series for you. The author takes great pains with his research to insure accuracy and authenticity of his tail. This is a stand alone book but I highly recommend reading the entire series and fall in love with these charming characters as have I.

[Janet Farnham · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am convinced that the most difficult genre in which to write quality stories is the Cozy murder mystery one. Go too light and you become silly and ludicrous; stray to the darker side and you risk seeming too gruesome or scary. There have only been a few authors who seem to manage this delicate balance with flair, giving the reader a complex yet believable plot while still staying within the bounds of lighthearted and humorous dialogue, pretty environs and generally uplifting endings. The Lord Edington series started out very promising. The first few books were charming but still complex and engaging. But the last few seem to be shifting to a style that I no longer find enjoyable.

[Vintagebooklvr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love mysteries that are set in the theater and this one is no different. Lord Edgington Investigates always produces fun and witty encounters and a good mystery. Christopher really steps up in this one. He has come a long way from the first book in the series where he was blind to any clues that may lead away from his believed culprit. In fact, roles are very much reversed in this one because Lord Edgington is fixated on one suspect and won't look at any other clues. So Christopher must take the lead and in the end deliver his pronouncement in front of a crowd.

Entertaining and lots of fun.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brown hits it out of the park with this latest installment of the Lord Edgington Investigates series. I love how the book is a play - but the actors are suspects, both in the play and real life. Quite convoluted, and I'm grateful that Brown has a 'programme' at the start of the story to help us keep straight who is who as well as a Character List at the end of the book if you really get stuck.

We also meet Marius Quin, who provides us a cameo appearance in this story before launching out into his own series. Love that touch of foreshadowing!

Excellent story. Chrissy continues to mature and grow in confidence. It's really lovely to see.

[Mark Lucas-Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Killer in the Wings

Another tour-de-force by Benedict Brown. The setting this time is instead of the usual Grand House it is set in a theatre.
A series of mishaps are plaguing the production of a new play and Lord Edgington and Christopher are requested when one such mishap results in the death of a cast member.
Lord Edgington is even more irascible and obtuse than ever pushing Christopher forward to “rise to the challenge” in solving the mysteries and to unveiling a murderer.

[peg craddock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killer, ghost or curse?

Deception and intrigue are involved in this captivating mystery. When Christopher’s old school friend, Marmaduke Adelaide, bursts unannounced into his home, Marmaduke brings news of a shocking event at the theatre where he is making his acting debut. He thus ensnares Lord Edgington and Christopher in the investigation of the tragedy and the mysterious and shocking accidents (?) which follow. The thespians and the very theatre itself appear to be haunted, but is there really a ghost or a curse, or is there a malevolent human causing the mayhem? Will the play be closed before it even begins its formal opening? Will you solve this before the two investigators?

[Ann Gillaspie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Play Within a Play Within a Book

As always, I’ve enjoyed the interactions between Christopher and ‘the great Lord Edgington’ and Christopher’s humble insights into the case set before them. But in this book, I did get lost a few times with all the characters and the characters they played. The plot line of the play and the play within it, seemed to cross lines and confuse the real mystery. Despite the occasional confusion, I found myself rooting for Christopher and a few of the chief suspects. The book has a very satisfying conclusion.

[Larkin Odgers]

Easy going mystery featuring a retired policeman with a title, Lord Edgington, and his grandson Christopher Prentis, in 1920’s England. Every book has a location that is beautiful, willing you to want to see for yourself. Brown’s descriptions of the beautiful houses, cities and food, are amazing in detail and correct for the times. I literally learn 5 or more words, slang, recipes etc reading this series, and then he makes a list for us.

The mysteries are involved and the use of these 2 characters playing off each other, makes them fun and easy to read.

[Lana Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding in every way!

I've read all the books in this series each one seems better than the last. Yet, this stands out. It's quite tricky to write a play within a play but, Brown has found a way to present it that is not only interesting but informative to solving the murders. Chrissy shines here as Lord Edgington pushes him forward into the roll of lead detective while at the same time throwing obstacles in his path. A great series that leaves me yearning for the next installment!

[Cattie Whaley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great mystery

We meet up again with Lord Edgington and Christopher, this time in London, when an actor is killed on stage at a new play that is set to premier. Marmaduke has asked for help as strange things have been going on at the theater, and he fears things may escalate. It's up to Lord Edgington and Christopher to figure out what is going on, which is not easy when you are dealing with actors! This book was a bit more drawn out than the others, but in the end I understood why. A great read with great characters once again. Highly recommend!

[Dayna Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 11th installment in the historical fiction Lord Edgington mystery series. When an actor is killed during the performance of a play, the other actors don't believe it's an accident and Lord Edgington and Chrissy must solve the mystery. However, all of the other actors are suspects in the murder with secrets they don't want discovered. Lord Edgington has decided that this will be the first case Chrissy solves on his own and begins to arrange his grandson's "coming out." Fans of the series will enjoy this book.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid 4 stars for a twisty, turn-y, sometimes confusing mystery. Lord Edgington is on top of things with grandson Christopher close behind. Well, he's definitely in the neighborhood. I was quite impressed with the way all was revealed at the end. The books in this series are always good reads and this one was no exception. Definitely a solid entry in the series. It also introduces us to Marius Quin, detective hero in Benedict's other series which is something you absolutely must check out if you like this series.

[Kim Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent story

Lord Edgington and his grandson Christopher are in London to look into the death of an actor. A death that could be a terrible accident, but equally could be murder. I love these books. They give me some real laugh out loud moments. The eccentric Lord Edgington is annoyingly brilliant and Chrissy is learning, slowly but surely how to be a detective. More please Mr B.

[Susan A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating mystery & lots more of Lord Edgington & his grandson

Brown creates fascinating mysteries for Lord Edgington & his grandson to solve. This is a great series - amusing as well as creating mysteries to solve. This entry is no exception. With a mystery within a mystery in the classic sense, both dramas are presented for these two detectives and for the reader to puzzle out with plenty of suspicious characters.