What do you think?
Rate this book
Ginger Gold Mystery #25
Murder at the Olympics
Chapters 1 + 2 Excerpt:
Chapter 1
Clive Pippins stood at the window of his attic bedroom in Hartigan House, aware only of the ache in his knees, the pinch in his back, and the crick in his neck. An old man stared back at him from the reflection in the glass. Pippins blinked back. That poor fellow was as bald as a billiard ball, with droopy skin on his long face. Watery blue eyes squinted in the sunlight, nearly disappearing behind skin folds. Though tall and lean, the man's shoulders fell forward, creating a roundness in his upper spine. Pippins empathised with the bloke, feeling the pain in his own neck in much the same place.
Pippins became aware of the warmth in the room, and the green, leafy trees outside reminded him it was the middle of summer. One must open the windows and allow for a breeze in such instances. Of this, he was fairly certain. Unlatching the casement, he pushed the glass open like a small barn door, and peered out.
In the garden—and it was such a beautiful garden. Who was responsible for that?—Pippins saw the man trimming the bushes. Clarence? Was it? Or Clem? Clements, yes, that was his name.
A boy sat on a patio chair holding a little black-and-white dog. Scout and Boss. Pippins exhaled. Yes, he remembered.
A man joined the boy and gestured to the door. It was clear he wanted the lad and the dog to go inside. Pippins sensed that something important was happening that day. There were so many things to remember. He pinched his eyes together as he tried to draw it up. How could he remember the state of the butler's pantry, where every bottle and jar was placed, every piece of silver, but he couldn't remember yesterday?
His vision blurred when he reopened his eyes. Blinking back the dratted tears—why did his eyes water so much?—he stared at the people in the garden below. A red-headed little girl held a doll, her father crouching as he spoke to the child. Poor thing was in tears.
Now Pippins remembered. Mr. Hartigan was taking the little miss to America.
Pippins knew he'd better hurry and hobbled down that long set of narrow stairs in time to say goodbye. If only his blasted knees didn't hurt so much.
Chapter 2
Hartigan House was a three-storey limestone residence in London's prestigious South Kensington district. The place had a sense of stillness and quiet that its owner, Mrs. Ginger Reed, found unsettling. Her discomfort wasn't as intense now as when she'd arrived five years earlier to claim her inheritance. Oh mercy, how time has flown by!
The Mallowan Court house had sat empty for ten years. It had taken several weeks, even months, to freshen the old girl up with new paint, wallpaper, and décor fitting with the style moderne trends of the day.
Pippins had come with the house. Her beloved butler had been old then, already many years older than the average life expectancy, even in the new century. He was in his mid-seventies, and Ginger had finally convinced him to retire, though he insisted on keeping the attic bedroom. The climb up and down the staircase, he claimed, was responsible for his extended years.
The sitting room was Ginger's favourite. Not only did she love the warm-yellow, velvet settee and matching armchairs that sat next to the stone fireplace, the rich red Turkish carpet on the wooden floor, and the long window that let in the summer sunlight, she especially admired the Waterhouse painting of The Mermaid above the mantel. It was an exquisite piece of art and had enormous sentimental value. The painting had been a gift to her mother from her father, and Ginger had been told the red-headed siren had an uncanny resemblance to her mother, who had sadly passed away soon after Ginger herself was born.
Ginger had dressed in a simple cotton day frock, with a decorative band at the low waist, matching summer jacket, and plain white low-heeled pumps. Perfectly suitable for travelling. As she sat in one of the armchairs, Boss, her Boston terrier, jumped onto her lap and curled up, tucking himself against her abdomen. He, too, was getting on in years, having slowed down to where he no longer begged to come along for rides with her in the motorcar. It's a good thing this time, Ginger mused, as there was no way she could take him to where she, Basil, and their son, Scout, were about to go—Amsterdam and the Games of the IX Olympiad!
Ginger had had little exposure to the Dutch language, though she had mastered German and French through her studies at Boston University and her time spent in the war. When she'd expressed her concern about language difficulties, Basil surprised her by saying he could speak Dutch. "Enough to get by, love." Apparently, Amsterdam had been a favourite holiday destination for the Reed family.
The dowager Lady Ambrosia Gold sat on the settee opposite Ginger. After what she described as a frightful lapse in judgement, her grey hair had grown out of the shorter bob—which, according to Ginger, had ...
Chapter 1
Clive Pippins stood at the window of his attic bedroom in Hartigan House, aware only of the ache in his knees, the pinch in his back, and the crick in his neck. An old man stared back at him from the reflection in the glass. Pippins blinked back. That poor fellow was as bald as a billiard ball, with droopy skin on his long face. Watery blue eyes squinted in the sunlight, nearly disappearing behind skin folds. Though tall and lean, the man's shoulders fell forward, creating a roundness in his upper spine. Pippins empathised with the bloke, feeling the pain in his own neck in much the same place.
Pippins became aware of the warmth in the room, and the green, leafy trees outside reminded him it was the middle of summer. One must open the windows and allow for a breeze in such instances. Of this, he was fairly certain. Unlatching the casement, he pushed the glass open like a small barn door, and peered out.
In the garden—and it was such a beautiful garden. Who was responsible for that?—Pippins saw the man trimming the bushes. Clarence? Was it? Or Clem? Clements, yes, that was his name.
A boy sat on a patio chair holding a little black-and-white dog. Scout and Boss. Pippins exhaled. Yes, he remembered.
A man joined the boy and gestured to the door. It was clear he wanted the lad and the dog to go inside. Pippins sensed that something important was happening that day. There were so many things to remember. He pinched his eyes together as he tried to draw it up. How could he remember the state of the butler's pantry, where every bottle and jar was placed, every piece of silver, but he couldn't remember yesterday?
His vision blurred when he reopened his eyes. Blinking back the dratted tears—why did his eyes water so much?—he stared at the people in the garden below. A red-headed little girl held a doll, her father crouching as he spoke to the child. Poor thing was in tears.
Now Pippins remembered. Mr. Hartigan was taking the little miss to America.
Pippins knew he'd better hurry and hobbled down that long set of narrow stairs in time to say goodbye. If only his blasted knees didn't hurt so much.
Chapter 2
Hartigan House was a three-storey limestone residence in London's prestigious South Kensington district. The place had a sense of stillness and quiet that its owner, Mrs. Ginger Reed, found unsettling. Her discomfort wasn't as intense now as when she'd arrived five years earlier to claim her inheritance. Oh mercy, how time has flown by!
The Mallowan Court house had sat empty for ten years. It had taken several weeks, even months, to freshen the old girl up with new paint, wallpaper, and décor fitting with the style moderne trends of the day.
Pippins had come with the house. Her beloved butler had been old then, already many years older than the average life expectancy, even in the new century. He was in his mid-seventies, and Ginger had finally convinced him to retire, though he insisted on keeping the attic bedroom. The climb up and down the staircase, he claimed, was responsible for his extended years.
The sitting room was Ginger's favourite. Not only did she love the warm-yellow, velvet settee and matching armchairs that sat next to the stone fireplace, the rich red Turkish carpet on the wooden floor, and the long window that let in the summer sunlight, she especially admired the Waterhouse painting of The Mermaid above the mantel. It was an exquisite piece of art and had enormous sentimental value. The painting had been a gift to her mother from her father, and Ginger had been told the red-headed siren had an uncanny resemblance to her mother, who had sadly passed away soon after Ginger herself was born.
Ginger had dressed in a simple cotton day frock, with a decorative band at the low waist, matching summer jacket, and plain white low-heeled pumps. Perfectly suitable for travelling. As she sat in one of the armchairs, Boss, her Boston terrier, jumped onto her lap and curled up, tucking himself against her abdomen. He, too, was getting on in years, having slowed down to where he no longer begged to come along for rides with her in the motorcar. It's a good thing this time, Ginger mused, as there was no way she could take him to where she, Basil, and their son, Scout, were about to go—Amsterdam and the Games of the IX Olympiad!
Ginger had had little exposure to the Dutch language, though she had mastered German and French through her studies at Boston University and her time spent in the war. When she'd expressed her concern about language difficulties, Basil surprised her by saying he could speak Dutch. "Enough to get by, love." Apparently, Amsterdam had been a favourite holiday destination for the Reed family.
The dowager Lady Ambrosia Gold sat on the settee opposite Ginger. After what she described as a frightful lapse in judgement, her grey hair had grown out of the shorter bob—which, according to Ginger, had ...
179 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2024
284 people are currently reading
145 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,339 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 4, 2024
Ginger and Basil, along with Scout, are excited to attend the Olympics in Amsterdam. Scout will be working with the horses while Ginger and Basil will enjoy a rare holiday. Ginger hopes to see Felicia while they're in Amsterdam but her former sister-in-law is very busy and evasive. The British women's track and field team is boycotting the Games because the organizers refused to honor their promise to add more women's events. The one race for women being contested is the 800 metre! Only one lone British woman will be running the race and Ginger is eager to cheer her on. The tabloids have a field day denigrating women after such a punishing race. Ginger is outraged but happy Scout is doing what he loves at least. When the Amsterdam police approach Basil about an identified body of a British national found in the river, Basil jumps in to help. He's shocked to discover the body is British track and field star Nora Graves. The Dutch police suspect murder and they need Basil to help figure it out before the woman's death starts an international incident. Meanwhile, Felicia and Charles are on the trail of someone and they seem to have lost their mark! Could the two incidents be connected? Is Felicia skilled enough yet to catch a killer?
This may be the end of the road for Ginger and it sure is a good way to go out. I purposefully read this book now during the Olympics as the women's track and field events are getting started. It was a lot of fun to read about the history of the Olympics and women's sports. Can you imagine the Olympics with only male athletes? Where would the Olympics be without Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, Katie Ledecky, Sha'Carri Richardson and the new stars of Team USA? (Or insert whatever country you're in and whatever athletes your media chooses to cover). Women's gymnastics was held in 1928. That would have been amazing to see!
The plot was interesting too. It seemed pretty cut and paste to me. I suspected sporting scandals, relationship scandals and the usual tired plots but this one is far different. It involves international intrigue and a hint of what's to come in the next two decades. On the cozy side, we're coming to the end of an era. The elderly characters have lived long lives, outliving average life expectancy and may not be with us any longer if the series continues. Oh no! There's plenty of fashion too for those who are into Ginger's wardrobe and details about life in Amsterdam.
The characters have become like old friends. I admire Ginger and her bravery during the war. Sometimes she can be a little obtuse now though and she doesn't quite understand the consequences of retirement and being out of the loop. Dear Pippins the butler is very elderly and getting forgetful. He's confusing the past and present and it made me want to cry. Boss, the Boston Terrier, is also getting older. He no longer wants to jump in the car and GO. He'd rather snooze by the fire. Who can blame him with Ginger behind the wheel? LOL! Ambrosia is old and crankier than ever now Felicia has left. I understand she's had a tough life but she has to let Felicia be an adult and live her own life. Ambrosia is a tough nut and she can deal with this latest defection. It's not like Felicia died. She can come back to visit. Basil is highly intelligent and shrewd. He knows enough about his wife to guess at her past. He knows he can't ask outright and never pressures her. It's tough though when she knows things he needs to know for a case and she can't tell him how she knows. He's very understanding. Basil is great with baby Rosa. She's a Daddy's girl! We know that from her own books but it was lovely to see that relationship develop. This trip is romantic for Basil and Ginger. They aren't alone too often and the last few vacations they took involved the whole family. They've known each other 5 years now since Murder on the SS Rosa.
Scout is going places. He's adjusted to being the son of Ginger and Basil now. They're Mum and Dad to him and he's proud to call them that. They're very proud of him, especially Ginger, who still likes to think of Scout as the little gap-toothed urchin she first met on the S.S. Rosa. Scout is still obsessed with horses and he's delighted to be allowed to help work in the stables during the Olympics. Felicia has grown up a lot but she has a ways to go before she can truly be a pro spy. She's too naïve and honest to understand the way criminals think and it sounds like Ginger preferred her silly BYT sister-in-law to this new Felicia. New Felicia is guarded and evasive. Ginger knows when she's being lied to, suspects Charles is involved in the secret service and is horrified Felicia has been dragged into it. What would Ambrosia do if Felicia were to be killed? After losing her son and grandson, it would destroy the normally tough old lady. Charles should have resigned.
New characters are not very pleasant. Ernest Bottomley with The Daily Picture, a tabloid paper, is eager for headlines. He recognizes Ginger from the papers and wants a sensational reaction from her to print in his story. She's wary and guarded, aware of what he wants but there may be more to him than meets the eye. Jack Montrose is another sleazy American tabloid journalist. He's even worse than Ernest and may even be a murderer! He's the type who would do anything for a story or sell his soul for money. His stories tend to be very negative.
Nora Graves is the one British woman NOT boycotting the games. She's a runner and determined to run the race. Good for her! Prove women can do it. The boycott only works for the wealthy women who can afford to skip the Olympics but Nora relies on the prize money she'll get if she wins. This may be illegal and involve betting in 1928 but it's probably how she pays for her training. Nora was tragically killed during the Olympics. Who could do such a thing and why? Ginger can think of a few reasons, especially once she hears rumors Nora was involved with her married coach, Claude Dankworth. Yes it's unethical but it's not illegal. Nora may have been using him for her own ends. It sounds like the relationship was ending but he may not have been able to accept that. Claude Dankworth drinks too much and he's whiny and clingy. He ignores Charlotte Hartley's overtures at least so he isn't having affairs with all the athletes.
Charlotte Hartley, an American athlete, is sour grapes and jealous of the lone British runner, Nora Graves. She makes fun of Nora's signature hair style and sounds like a mean girl type. Charlotte knocked into Nora before the race. Did she try to sabotage Nora and then Nora ended up dead? Yeesh these athletes are competitive! Another mean girl is Marion Hughes, a runner and horse owner. She's known to be jealous and can't stand NOT being the center of attention. Marion sounds like a spoiled rich kid to me. I wonder if she's mean to her horse? I think she can't stand to lose and I'm wondering if she's having the vet dope her horse in order to win? Marion was rooming with Nora Graves and presumably the last person to see Nora alive before the killer. Marion's jockey, Bernard Masters, is up to something. I think there's shady business going on with the horse and the jockey is well aware of it and even encouraging. Mr. Gerrit KIaassen, the horse vet, gives me the creeps. His attitudes towards women and comment about Scout being rough around the edges coupled with other things make me think he will subscribe to the Nazi ideology. Yikes! This guy is on my radar because he supposedly misplaced (or someone stole?) one of his syringes. Now what is he injecting into the horse and why? He gives an explanation but no one, not even Scout, questions whether this is legal?! No way!
Ginger appears to have seen a ghost or someone from her long ago past during the war. The woman she knew as Edith Smythe was a new recruit Ginger trained. The woman was hard and tough. Her fighting style was intense and fierce and she seemed to want to hurt or kill Ginger. Then later it was discovered she was a double agent! Who is Edith Smythe and where has she been all these years? What is her connection to Nora and the Olympics?
Inspector Van der Meer of The Dutch Municipal Police is very fair and good at his job. He actually asks for Basil's help and accepts Scotland Yard's word that Basil is able to help. He isn't keen on Ginger but Basil doesn't involve Ginger in this one.
I'm sad to say farewell to Ginger and Co. perhaps only for now, perhaps for good. I DID skim Rosa's books so I know what happens to everyone later in life but it's not the same as reading about Ginger's adventures. Best of luck to Lee Strauss in her future endeavors.
Now I'm going to go watch some Olympics!
This may be the end of the road for Ginger and it sure is a good way to go out. I purposefully read this book now during the Olympics as the women's track and field events are getting started. It was a lot of fun to read about the history of the Olympics and women's sports. Can you imagine the Olympics with only male athletes? Where would the Olympics be without Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, Katie Ledecky, Sha'Carri Richardson and the new stars of Team USA? (Or insert whatever country you're in and whatever athletes your media chooses to cover). Women's gymnastics was held in 1928. That would have been amazing to see!
The plot was interesting too. It seemed pretty cut and paste to me. I suspected sporting scandals, relationship scandals and the usual tired plots but this one is far different. It involves international intrigue and a hint of what's to come in the next two decades. On the cozy side, we're coming to the end of an era. The elderly characters have lived long lives, outliving average life expectancy and may not be with us any longer if the series continues. Oh no! There's plenty of fashion too for those who are into Ginger's wardrobe and details about life in Amsterdam.
The characters have become like old friends. I admire Ginger and her bravery during the war. Sometimes she can be a little obtuse now though and she doesn't quite understand the consequences of retirement and being out of the loop. Dear Pippins the butler is very elderly and getting forgetful. He's confusing the past and present and it made me want to cry. Boss, the Boston Terrier, is also getting older. He no longer wants to jump in the car and GO. He'd rather snooze by the fire. Who can blame him with Ginger behind the wheel? LOL! Ambrosia is old and crankier than ever now Felicia has left. I understand she's had a tough life but she has to let Felicia be an adult and live her own life. Ambrosia is a tough nut and she can deal with this latest defection. It's not like Felicia died. She can come back to visit. Basil is highly intelligent and shrewd. He knows enough about his wife to guess at her past. He knows he can't ask outright and never pressures her. It's tough though when she knows things he needs to know for a case and she can't tell him how she knows. He's very understanding. Basil is great with baby Rosa. She's a Daddy's girl! We know that from her own books but it was lovely to see that relationship develop. This trip is romantic for Basil and Ginger. They aren't alone too often and the last few vacations they took involved the whole family. They've known each other 5 years now since Murder on the SS Rosa.
Scout is going places. He's adjusted to being the son of Ginger and Basil now. They're Mum and Dad to him and he's proud to call them that. They're very proud of him, especially Ginger, who still likes to think of Scout as the little gap-toothed urchin she first met on the S.S. Rosa. Scout is still obsessed with horses and he's delighted to be allowed to help work in the stables during the Olympics. Felicia has grown up a lot but she has a ways to go before she can truly be a pro spy. She's too naïve and honest to understand the way criminals think and it sounds like Ginger preferred her silly BYT sister-in-law to this new Felicia. New Felicia is guarded and evasive. Ginger knows when she's being lied to, suspects Charles is involved in the secret service and is horrified Felicia has been dragged into it. What would Ambrosia do if Felicia were to be killed? After losing her son and grandson, it would destroy the normally tough old lady. Charles should have resigned.
New characters are not very pleasant. Ernest Bottomley with The Daily Picture, a tabloid paper, is eager for headlines. He recognizes Ginger from the papers and wants a sensational reaction from her to print in his story. She's wary and guarded, aware of what he wants but there may be more to him than meets the eye. Jack Montrose is another sleazy American tabloid journalist. He's even worse than Ernest and may even be a murderer! He's the type who would do anything for a story or sell his soul for money. His stories tend to be very negative.
Nora Graves is the one British woman NOT boycotting the games. She's a runner and determined to run the race. Good for her! Prove women can do it. The boycott only works for the wealthy women who can afford to skip the Olympics but Nora relies on the prize money she'll get if she wins. This may be illegal and involve betting in 1928 but it's probably how she pays for her training. Nora was tragically killed during the Olympics. Who could do such a thing and why? Ginger can think of a few reasons, especially once she hears rumors Nora was involved with her married coach, Claude Dankworth. Yes it's unethical but it's not illegal. Nora may have been using him for her own ends. It sounds like the relationship was ending but he may not have been able to accept that. Claude Dankworth drinks too much and he's whiny and clingy. He ignores Charlotte Hartley's overtures at least so he isn't having affairs with all the athletes.
Charlotte Hartley, an American athlete, is sour grapes and jealous of the lone British runner, Nora Graves. She makes fun of Nora's signature hair style and sounds like a mean girl type. Charlotte knocked into Nora before the race. Did she try to sabotage Nora and then Nora ended up dead? Yeesh these athletes are competitive! Another mean girl is Marion Hughes, a runner and horse owner. She's known to be jealous and can't stand NOT being the center of attention. Marion sounds like a spoiled rich kid to me. I wonder if she's mean to her horse? I think she can't stand to lose and I'm wondering if she's having the vet dope her horse in order to win? Marion was rooming with Nora Graves and presumably the last person to see Nora alive before the killer. Marion's jockey, Bernard Masters, is up to something. I think there's shady business going on with the horse and the jockey is well aware of it and even encouraging. Mr. Gerrit KIaassen, the horse vet, gives me the creeps. His attitudes towards women and comment about Scout being rough around the edges coupled with other things make me think he will subscribe to the Nazi ideology. Yikes! This guy is on my radar because he supposedly misplaced (or someone stole?) one of his syringes. Now what is he injecting into the horse and why? He gives an explanation but no one, not even Scout, questions whether this is legal?! No way!
Ginger appears to have seen a ghost or someone from her long ago past during the war. The woman she knew as Edith Smythe was a new recruit Ginger trained. The woman was hard and tough. Her fighting style was intense and fierce and she seemed to want to hurt or kill Ginger. Then later it was discovered she was a double agent! Who is Edith Smythe and where has she been all these years? What is her connection to Nora and the Olympics?
Inspector Van der Meer of The Dutch Municipal Police is very fair and good at his job. He actually asks for Basil's help and accepts Scotland Yard's word that Basil is able to help. He isn't keen on Ginger but Basil doesn't involve Ginger in this one.
I'm sad to say farewell to Ginger and Co. perhaps only for now, perhaps for good. I DID skim Rosa's books so I know what happens to everyone later in life but it's not the same as reading about Ginger's adventures. Best of luck to Lee Strauss in her future endeavors.
Now I'm going to go watch some Olympics!
April 30, 2024
The Ginger Gold Series never disappoints. This time events take place at the Olympics in Holland in the 1920’s. Ginger, Basil, and Scout are attending and plan to visit Felicia and her husband Charles. Scout will be working at the stables for the Equestrian Events. There are so many surprises and revelations in this story and they all start with the murder of a British Olympian. This murder is well developed with a surprising resolution. The ending back in England brings more surprises and makes me eager to read the next installment in this enjoyable series.
The main characters continue to develop and we learn more about Ginger’s past in the war. The descriptions of both the characters and the settings help bring this story to life. I hope to enjoy an audiobook of this someday. I was very fortunate to be able to read an advanced copy.
The main characters continue to develop and we learn more about Ginger’s past in the war. The descriptions of both the characters and the settings help bring this story to life. I hope to enjoy an audiobook of this someday. I was very fortunate to be able to read an advanced copy.
July 25, 2024
An excellent book and well worth reading.
May 2, 2024
My favourite Ginger Gold so far… And that’s saying something, as I’ve been a fan from the start! I think this series is getting better and better, but this one, Murder at the Olympics, is not only a great whodunnit cosy mystery, but also gives me all the “feels” I could possibly want for the characters I’ve come to know and love. I’m not going to even hint at spoilers, but for long time readers of Ginger Gold series and the spin off Rosa Reed series, there are lots of little gems to be found.
If you’ve not read any Ginger Golds before, this is a standalone story and could definitely be read as a one-off. But you’d be missing out on so much gorgeous insider appreciation that I think you’d enjoy this book even more once you’ve read the series from the start.
Once again Lee Strauss brings the 1920s alive with genuine historical events (this time the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam) along with wonderful details of the life of the era, such as fashion, music and social norms. The plot here is intriguing, with twists I did not expect, and the killer kept me guessing right until the denouement. Best of all for me is the developments in plot and relationship for the characters - and there were parts where I could not stop smiling!
As always, the writing is fluent and good. It’s not in any way dumbed down, like cosy mysteries can be. If you like your murder mysteries to be historical and cosy, with some spy related intrigue, and characters that become like your friends, you’ll love this. I received an ARC but I’d buy every book Lee Strauss writes anyway. Highly recommend! I'd give it 6 stars if I could.
If you’ve not read any Ginger Golds before, this is a standalone story and could definitely be read as a one-off. But you’d be missing out on so much gorgeous insider appreciation that I think you’d enjoy this book even more once you’ve read the series from the start.
Once again Lee Strauss brings the 1920s alive with genuine historical events (this time the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam) along with wonderful details of the life of the era, such as fashion, music and social norms. The plot here is intriguing, with twists I did not expect, and the killer kept me guessing right until the denouement. Best of all for me is the developments in plot and relationship for the characters - and there were parts where I could not stop smiling!
As always, the writing is fluent and good. It’s not in any way dumbed down, like cosy mysteries can be. If you like your murder mysteries to be historical and cosy, with some spy related intrigue, and characters that become like your friends, you’ll love this. I received an ARC but I’d buy every book Lee Strauss writes anyway. Highly recommend! I'd give it 6 stars if I could.
May 1, 2024
It's hard to believe that this is the 25th book in this series! Each book not only keeps you entertained and guessing, but page turning as well. This book is a wonderful addition. In this one we have Ginger, Basil and Scout on holiday attending the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam. Ginger was able to get Scout a job in the stables helping with the horses; a dream job for him. To add to the fun, Ginger, Basil and Scout will be able to see Felicity and Charles who are staying there for Charles' business. Finally women are allowed to participate in the games but only in a couple of areas. When one of the British female athletes is found dead, Basil is asked to assist the Amsterdam police along with Ginger's help. There are so many surprises in this book and a wonderful page turning, hard to guess ending. We even get to learn more about Ginger's secret background. Once you begin this book you just have to read it straight through! I couldn't put it down. I whole-heartedly recommend this book as well as this entire series! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
May 5, 2024
Murder at the Olympics--Lee Strauss. Scores a Blue Ribbon!!!
Wow! Another great page-turner, another murder? Indeed! Ginger and Basil's vacation to Amsterdam with Scout turns into another deadly mystery. The excitement of attending the new Olympics is marred when one of the female competitors is found floating in one of the numerous canals! Ginger wanted this trip to, also, be an long-awaited visit with Lady Davenport-Witte and Charles, the Lord. But those two have a new secret, besides their renewed love for each other! Ginger senses something is amiss. She's correct, but...?
An. English female athlete has been murdered! How? Why? Who did it? And solve it before the Games end
and all return to their home countries!! Lee Strauss is at her best in this one! I believe with each mystery, she grows. Her characters are filling out; like Ginger, Basil, Felicia, Charles, Scout, and even Rosa, all have added to their characters as more action happens to each and history is uncovered. Don't miss this one!
I highly recommend this outstanding murder mystery!!
Wow! Another great page-turner, another murder? Indeed! Ginger and Basil's vacation to Amsterdam with Scout turns into another deadly mystery. The excitement of attending the new Olympics is marred when one of the female competitors is found floating in one of the numerous canals! Ginger wanted this trip to, also, be an long-awaited visit with Lady Davenport-Witte and Charles, the Lord. But those two have a new secret, besides their renewed love for each other! Ginger senses something is amiss. She's correct, but...?
An. English female athlete has been murdered! How? Why? Who did it? And solve it before the Games end
and all return to their home countries!! Lee Strauss is at her best in this one! I believe with each mystery, she grows. Her characters are filling out; like Ginger, Basil, Felicia, Charles, Scout, and even Rosa, all have added to their characters as more action happens to each and history is uncovered. Don't miss this one!
I highly recommend this outstanding murder mystery!!
April 5, 2024
Murder at the Olympics by Lee Strauss is another wonderful instalment of the Ginger Gold mystery series. The setting of the book in and around the events of the Olympic Games, which really took place, gives the book more of a realistic feel, and Strauss supplies details of the historic games with an accuracy that informs as it enhances the storyline.
Scout is one of my favourite characters, and I was thrilled to see the progression for him in this book!
The passage of time is an ongoing theme this time around, and Strauss handles the topic with compassion and grace, much as you would expect Ginger to do herself. Add to that the spilling of secrets, a murder with numerous suspects, and international spies, and the book is a page-turner from beginning to end.
I am pleased to have read an ARC of the book, and look forward to more in the future!
Scout is one of my favourite characters, and I was thrilled to see the progression for him in this book!
The passage of time is an ongoing theme this time around, and Strauss handles the topic with compassion and grace, much as you would expect Ginger to do herself. Add to that the spilling of secrets, a murder with numerous suspects, and international spies, and the book is a page-turner from beginning to end.
I am pleased to have read an ARC of the book, and look forward to more in the future!
April 22, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Amsterdam is one of my favourite cities and I loved reading a bit about the city as it in the 20s.
The pacing was quick, and the characters engaging. Because the story was so short there wasn’t a lot of space for character development but that didn’t hurt the story.
Felicia and her husband were key “side” players. I was intrigued by their side storyline and it made me want a couple of books dedicated to their adventures.
I liked the setting and the story. I didn’t realize there had been a boycott by the British women’s athletics team and that the women faced such mockery by the press. I feel as though I learned something new 😀
I highly recommend to anyone who is a fan of 20s cozies and husband and wife teams.
The pacing was quick, and the characters engaging. Because the story was so short there wasn’t a lot of space for character development but that didn’t hurt the story.
Felicia and her husband were key “side” players. I was intrigued by their side storyline and it made me want a couple of books dedicated to their adventures.
I liked the setting and the story. I didn’t realize there had been a boycott by the British women’s athletics team and that the women faced such mockery by the press. I feel as though I learned something new 😀
I highly recommend to anyone who is a fan of 20s cozies and husband and wife teams.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2024
What a delightful cozy historical fiction series; this 25th book set around the 1928 Olympics in Amsterdam didn’t disappoint. Lee Strauss is the best in describing the fashion of the times and Ginger Gold Reed always has the latest fashion and accessories. Interesting history is woven into the story: this Olympics is the first to have female competitors. While this trip was to be a vacation for the Reeds, they are soon brought into a murder situation involving a British Olympian. Catch up with the happenings of the Gold/Reed household. Certainly this can be read if you haven’t read any of the series; be forewarned—you’ll want to read the other books to enjoy the life of Ginger Gold Reed. I received an Advance Read Copy; this is my honest opinion.
April 28, 2024
Another great addition to the Ginger Gold series-although book 23 there's always a fresh new adventure awaiting Basil and Ginger. This time they are headed to Amsterdam for the 1928 Olympic Games with Scout where they are meeting up with Felicia and Charles. The interesting facts about these particular games are expertly woven into the story and I came away learning so much. The most fascinating aspects to me were regarding the female athletes-their treatment and accomplishments. When one of these women turns up dead Ginger and Basil team up with the Dutch police to uncover "what's at play". I immensely enjoyed the mystery and the Olympic games-I did feel Scout's part of the story to be over the top. I look forward to reading the next in this series and can't recommend this series enough.
May 11, 2024
Olympics Were Never.So Excitimg
As like the others in this series Murder At The Olympics has its core a great respect for all the characters from an American spy to a handful of British spys including Lady Felicia. And Gingers secret life during World War One finally comes out. Of course a series of murders are solved along with detailed descriptions of Gingers fabulous color cordinated outfits. There's even a funny scene of Ginger almost driving her husband to an early death. Everyone knows Ginger is a terrible driver everyone that is but Ginger. I enjoyed the fast pace and excellent descriptions of Amsterdam and the Olympics. This is a nice cozy read.
As like the others in this series Murder At The Olympics has its core a great respect for all the characters from an American spy to a handful of British spys including Lady Felicia. And Gingers secret life during World War One finally comes out. Of course a series of murders are solved along with detailed descriptions of Gingers fabulous color cordinated outfits. There's even a funny scene of Ginger almost driving her husband to an early death. Everyone knows Ginger is a terrible driver everyone that is but Ginger. I enjoyed the fast pace and excellent descriptions of Amsterdam and the Olympics. This is a nice cozy read.
July 18, 2024
just in time for the Paris olympics
Ahhh to grow old is a privilege but to see favorite characters age and decline is another. I can guess the next book will have a Reid!Gold funeral in it. A tear or two will be shed.
This is a quick fun read. The 1928 Olympics being the one to start the torch being lit and how it has remained to date. Murder, sports, women’s rights and spies what more can you ask for. I enjoyed this one. Now bring on book 26. I can’t believe it’s been this long but I’ve enjoyed all 25 books and her other books as well. Keep on writing Ms Strauss, have some wine and dark chocolate and write another another Lady Gold Mysteries.
Ahhh to grow old is a privilege but to see favorite characters age and decline is another. I can guess the next book will have a Reid!Gold funeral in it. A tear or two will be shed.
This is a quick fun read. The 1928 Olympics being the one to start the torch being lit and how it has remained to date. Murder, sports, women’s rights and spies what more can you ask for. I enjoyed this one. Now bring on book 26. I can’t believe it’s been this long but I’ve enjoyed all 25 books and her other books as well. Keep on writing Ms Strauss, have some wine and dark chocolate and write another another Lady Gold Mysteries.
September 2, 2024
Read #1 in this series and now this last one...so much better!
Enjoyed this one.
Not the best books I have ever read ( I am an avid reader of mysteries of all sorts and am, well, old!)
This one was far better than the first in this series. I have not read any of Lee Strauss' other books in her other series.
Love strong women characters ...particularly in this very turbulent era for women of all
ages, stages and classes.
I think she handles this subject well. Like her protagonists ...men and women. Characters are well drawn.
Not sure about murder at the Olympics... How sad is that?
For a cozy, fast read would recommend these perhaps after some others I really love...
Enjoyed this one.
Not the best books I have ever read ( I am an avid reader of mysteries of all sorts and am, well, old!)
This one was far better than the first in this series. I have not read any of Lee Strauss' other books in her other series.
Love strong women characters ...particularly in this very turbulent era for women of all
ages, stages and classes.
I think she handles this subject well. Like her protagonists ...men and women. Characters are well drawn.
Not sure about murder at the Olympics... How sad is that?
For a cozy, fast read would recommend these perhaps after some others I really love...
April 26, 2024
Another enjoyable cozy from Lee Strauss.
Lee Strauss does an excellent job of maturing her characters. Love how Felicia has grown up. Scout is maturing too. And giving us a good idea of the sub-characters personalties whether we like them or not.
We are brought into the feel of the country and the games. Also a sense of all nerves and activity spectators do not experience.
There are interesting characters who I was sure did it. But then thought another had.
I totally enjoyed this new one from Lee Strauss.
September 15, 2024
Quite excellent!
I think it Strauss's best yet. I've enjoyed all the books in the series, but for me this touched so many tender chords of family, relationships, and change. The murder mystery set in The Netherlands wrapped in the Olympic exhilaration of 1928 was intricately woven with espionage and Ginger's past. Yet, the intimate story was about change, about the past coming full circle with hints of surprising new doors opening for some and heralds of closing doors for others. I simply loved the book and highly recommend it. Now, what will Strauss do in 1929?
I think it Strauss's best yet. I've enjoyed all the books in the series, but for me this touched so many tender chords of family, relationships, and change. The murder mystery set in The Netherlands wrapped in the Olympic exhilaration of 1928 was intricately woven with espionage and Ginger's past. Yet, the intimate story was about change, about the past coming full circle with hints of surprising new doors opening for some and heralds of closing doors for others. I simply loved the book and highly recommend it. Now, what will Strauss do in 1929?
May 1, 2024
Excellent!
These books keep getting better every time. I loved this one I loved that Scout was a big part of it. I did not understand why if Ginger wanted to move Pippins to a better room the Dowager Lady Gold had any say on that. It’s Ginger’s home, the Dowager is a guest, I wasn’t very happy with the solution for Pippins, he should die in Hartigan House, where he belongs. But all the rest was amazing.
These books keep getting better every time. I loved this one I loved that Scout was a big part of it. I did not understand why if Ginger wanted to move Pippins to a better room the Dowager Lady Gold had any say on that. It’s Ginger’s home, the Dowager is a guest, I wasn’t very happy with the solution for Pippins, he should die in Hartigan House, where he belongs. But all the rest was amazing.
May 5, 2024
An Olympic visit with old friends.
So fun to catch up with Basil. ginger, Scout, Felicia and Charles. Grandmama Ambrosia is declining? A mystery for another day. And what will happen with Pippins across the street with Felicia and Charles? Basil hints at a promotion for both himself and Constable Buxton. We didn’t hear much about the investigative agency OR the dress shop, so looking forward to those updates the next time around.
So fun to catch up with Basil. ginger, Scout, Felicia and Charles. Grandmama Ambrosia is declining? A mystery for another day. And what will happen with Pippins across the street with Felicia and Charles? Basil hints at a promotion for both himself and Constable Buxton. We didn’t hear much about the investigative agency OR the dress shop, so looking forward to those updates the next time around.
May 6, 2024
love the Mystery but…
Great mystery. But why Why would Ginger do that to Pippen?? It was Cruel!! She should have built a room for him on the main floor. It turned me off totally. I hope you change it in next book otherwise I am done with the series. I am sorry you don’t treat loyal people who care about you like that.. take them away from everything they know and stick them into a strange place.
Ginger wouldn’t have done that to anybody.
Great mystery. But why Why would Ginger do that to Pippen?? It was Cruel!! She should have built a room for him on the main floor. It turned me off totally. I hope you change it in next book otherwise I am done with the series. I am sorry you don’t treat loyal people who care about you like that.. take them away from everything they know and stick them into a strange place.
Ginger wouldn’t have done that to anybody.
August 3, 2024
Reading About the Olympics During the Olympics
Another great Lady Gold book. Basil, Ginger and Scout attend the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. There are many exciting events, including the first time women are allowed to run. And, after speaking to a friend, Scout has been allowed to help groom one of the horses. Of course, there is a murder. So Basil and Ginger put their gloves on and get to work.
Another great Lady Gold book. Basil, Ginger and Scout attend the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics. There are many exciting events, including the first time women are allowed to run. And, after speaking to a friend, Scout has been allowed to help groom one of the horses. Of course, there is a murder. So Basil and Ginger put their gloves on and get to work.
April 30, 2024
I love this series and this book is an excellent addition. The storyline is engaging and well written as always. The mystery was complex and kept me guessing throughout. The characters stay true to period in both style of dress and speech. Found it really hard to put this one down.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
May 3, 2024
Excellent As Always
I absolutely love this series, Ginger, Basil, Scout, and all the rest of these characters! There are some absolute surprises in this one. Once again, the murderer is figured out, and all is right with the world again - until the next murder to be solved. Be sure to read about Rosa in her mysteries or Higgins in hers as well.
I absolutely love this series, Ginger, Basil, Scout, and all the rest of these characters! There are some absolute surprises in this one. Once again, the murderer is figured out, and all is right with the world again - until the next murder to be solved. Be sure to read about Rosa in her mysteries or Higgins in hers as well.
May 3, 2024
Another great book in the Ginger Gold Mystery series. I really appreciate the research that goes into the writing of this historical series. This story is set during the 1928 Olympics. Many secrets are revealed about the main characters as this mystery is solved. One of my favorite series in my favorite genre of fiction. Highly recommend it.
May 3, 2024
Another excellent story
I love these stories featuring Ginger and Basil Reed and their family and friends. Some are more obvious than others but this was one of the less obvious ones. I guessed some of what was going on but not all of it. But the ending... Oh I feel there may be a need for tissues in the next book!
I love these stories featuring Ginger and Basil Reed and their family and friends. Some are more obvious than others but this was one of the less obvious ones. I guessed some of what was going on but not all of it. But the ending... Oh I feel there may be a need for tissues in the next book!
May 12, 2024
Spies and Sports
As always, this is a well crafted tale of murder and misdirection. Ginger ,Basil, and Scout venture off to the 1928 Olympics in Holland. Of course, the holiday aspect of the trip soon vanishes when Basil is asked to help with a murder ofvone ofvthe British athletes.
As always, this is a well crafted tale of murder and misdirection. Ginger ,Basil, and Scout venture off to the 1928 Olympics in Holland. Of course, the holiday aspect of the trip soon vanishes when Basil is asked to help with a murder ofvone ofvthe British athletes.
June 24, 2024
Ginger, Basil and Scout are heading to Amsterdam to attend the Olympics. Scout is especially excited as he is to work in the equestrian stables for the event. The body of a female competitor is found floating in a canal….was it accident, suicide or murder? Basil is requested to assist the Dutch Police in any was that he can.
August 20, 2024
Great story
Ginger and her family are at the Olympics in Amsterdam to enjoy the games and for Scout to see the horses perform. Everything is going fine until......A murder occurs. Drawn into the drama, Ginger's long held secret is in jeopardy and no other than Felicia is in mix. Great story.
Ginger and her family are at the Olympics in Amsterdam to enjoy the games and for Scout to see the horses perform. Everything is going fine until......A murder occurs. Drawn into the drama, Ginger's long held secret is in jeopardy and no other than Felicia is in mix. Great story.
June 30, 2025
A gold medal at the Olympics for Lady Gold
Lee Strauss hit gold again. This book was so intricately plotted that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it. The characters were cleverly deceptive and I had no idea where we were going. I like it that way. I highly recommend this book for a fast-paced intriguing book from beginning to end.
Lee Strauss hit gold again. This book was so intricately plotted that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it. The characters were cleverly deceptive and I had no idea where we were going. I like it that way. I highly recommend this book for a fast-paced intriguing book from beginning to end.
July 5, 2025
A good read…
I’ve enjoyed all the Ginger Gold mysteries. This one took a long time to finish because I had a hard time getting involved with the story. It didn’t feel as real as some of the others. Some of the scenes felt contrived and not readily believable. I still enjoy the characters and will continue to read the series.
I’ve enjoyed all the Ginger Gold mysteries. This one took a long time to finish because I had a hard time getting involved with the story. It didn’t feel as real as some of the others. Some of the scenes felt contrived and not readily believable. I still enjoy the characters and will continue to read the series.
May 2, 2024
Worth the wait
I have been waiting for the next Ginger gold book to come out, and this one did not disappoint. It’s especially fitting in an Olympic year (2024) to have this book set at the Olympics in the 1920s.
I have been waiting for the next Ginger gold book to come out, and this one did not disappoint. It’s especially fitting in an Olympic year (2024) to have this book set at the Olympics in the 1920s.
May 2, 2024
Ginger goes to the Olympics and gets embroiled in another mystery. Lots of twists in this one. I especially liked how Strauss wove the events of the games into the story. It makes the tale so much richer. This one really kept me guessing.
I received this book for free and wished to leave a review.
I received this book for free and wished to leave a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews