Murder in Moscow

Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane Mystery #5

by Kelly Oliver

Journey into the heart of 20th Century Russia in this fun and funny historical mystery, perfect for fans of Verity Bright and Helena Dixon.

1918 Moscow

Will following her heart mean losing her head? It could mean losing her job.

Fiona Figg trails her nemesis Fredrick Fredricks to Moscow. But when she arrives at the grand Metropol Hotel, the bounder has vanished.

After Fiona doesn’t show up for work at the War Office, Kitty Lane raises a red flag and tracks her to Russia. Seeking haven at the British Embassy, Kitty and Fiona become embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Bolshevik government.

But the plot turns deadly when Fiona goes undercover as a governess in the household of Iron Viktor, the Bolsheviks’ Head of Secret Police. And when Viktor turns up dead in his study, Fiona finds herself wanted for murder and on the lam.

Can Fiona and Kitty find the real killer and escape the Kremlin before it’s too late? Or will this dangerous game of Russian roulette be their last?

What readers are saying about Kelly

'A fun, mix of whodunnit and thriller!' T. A. Williams

'Fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek spy romp. Enjoy the ride!' Frances Evesham

'Will keep you turning the pages and laughing all the way!' Dianne Freeman ** 'The perfect wartime spy; Fiona Figg is smart, sneaky, and full of surprises... A fun whodunit that will keep you turning the pages!' **Cathi Stoler

'A cross between an Agatha Christie and a Sherlock Holmes sleuthing story. Just brilliant!' NetGalley Reviewer

'Simply delightful. Fiona Figg — with her tools, wigs, and disguises — is a sleuth you can't help but root for.' S.K. Golden

'This historical mystery delivers twists and turns. I can't wait for the next one!' Muddy Rose Reviews

'I love Fiona Figg!' Margaret Mizushima

'Couldn't put it down.' Amazon Reviewer

'A perfect blend of wit, fun, and intrigue.' Debra Goldstein

'I am hooked on these amazing characters.' Amazon Reviewer

A fun diversion with an entertaining female lead. Kirkus Reviews

'Fans of Susan Elia MacNeal will gobble up this series! Highly recommend.' L.A. Chandlar

'Diabolical plot twists, interesting red herrings, colorful characters, make this a good whodunit.' NetGalley Reviewer

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical, Thriller, Cozy Mystery, Crime

242 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 19, 2024

About the author

Kelly Oliver is the award-winning, bestselling author of four mysteries series:
Jessica James Mysteries (contemporary suspense), Pet Detective Mysteries (middle grade), Fiona Figg Mysteries (historical cozies), and The Detection Club Mysteries (traditional).

When she’s not writing mysteries, Kelly is Distinguished Professor Emerita of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University.

Kelly lives in Nashville with three very demanding felines.

To learn more about Kelly and her books, please visit her website at www.kellyoliverbooks.com.

Reviews

[Ayşe | عائشہ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5

I’ve been a fan of Kelly Oliver since I tried Covert in Cairo last year. It was totally by chance and now I can’t wait for the new book in the series. With the main character Fiona I have been to many countries such as the UK, Egypt and Italy and now I’m off to Russia 🤭.

This time Fiona went to Moscow to follow Fredrick. There, she again got stuck in conspiracies and murders. The plot is clearly explained in the synopsis above so I will just talk about the things I liked.

First of all the mystery. The murder of the Iron Viktor really makes everything intriguing and interesting. Again it was very difficult to fathom who was behind this murder.

“Fredricks.” My mind raced. Would we both go to jail? Would I ever see him again? Would the Cheka break through that door and shoot us on the spot?

Next is the plot, a beautiful setting in Moscow and the fate of Archie and Fredrick. Fredrick Friedrick’s real story is fascinating so this is the character that captivates me to read the book after Fiona.

The author’s notes at the end of the novel are always helpful. This time, the story is set in Moscow, so there was a rich description of Russia’s role in World War II.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Kelly Oliver for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder in Moscow coming out March 19, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

1918 Moscow

Will following her heart mean losing her head? It could mean losing her job.

Fiona Figg trails her nemesis Fredrick Fredricks to Moscow. But when she arrives at the grand Metropol Hotel, the bounder has vanished.
After Fiona doesn’t show up for work at the War Office, Kitty Lane raises a red flag and tracks her to Russia. Seeking haven at the British Embassy, Kitty and Fiona become embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Bolshevik government.

But the plot turns deadly when Fiona goes undercover as a governess in the household of Iron Viktor, the Bolsheviks’ Head of Secret Police. And when Viktor turns up dead in his study, Fiona finds herself wanted for murder and on the lam.

Can Fiona and Kitty find the real killer and escape the Kremlin before it’s too late? Or will this dangerous game of Russian roulette be their last?

I love this series! Fiona is a strong character who gets into dangerous situations. I thought she and Kitty had some conflicts, but they were there for each other when it mattered. The men also got into some trouble and needed saving. I love the time period and the spy drama. I’m glad some things were resolved from the book before this one. I’m excited to read future books in this series!

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical spy novels!

[M.J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow is the latest instalment in the Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane cosy historical mystery series.

We've been to Egypt, Italy, the UK and now we're off to 1918 Moscow. What could possibly go wrong?

Everything, or so it seems. Kitty, following Frederick Fredericks to Moscow, find herself marooned in an freezing cold Moscow in March, and that's just the beginning of her problems, as she faces arrest and all sorts of other problems in this fun addition to the series.

What I loved about this new book is that Kitty gets her own part in it. So far, (I think), the narratives have been from Fiona's point of view. In Murder in Moscow, Kitty gets to have her say and we learn some intriguing information about her. And, as Kitty can speak Russian a whole lot better than Fiona, Fiona really needs her help.

With Bolsheviks, and the Cheka and the terrible problems facing the Russian royal family, Moscow is rife with conspiracy and as ever, Fiona walks right into it, and not even her disguises can necessarily help her.

This is, as I said, a fun addition to the series, which is going from strength to strength. Fiona is a single-minded woman, hell bent on making a name for herself, and her overconfidence means she gets into some very tricky situations. Her ability to get out of these situations is one of the appealing qualities of the series, told with a pinch of humour. A firm 4.5/5.

[Farwa Khanzada · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNFed.
I didn't know there were so many parts of this series before, tried hard to focus but couldn't because I didn't know the background of the main character or their history so I couldn't get attached.

[Jasmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing me a free ARC in exchange of an honest review. Murder in Moscow is actually the latest of a series called Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane Mysteries. Both Fiona and Kitty are British spies where their work leads them to different countries and this time it’s in Russia. It’s set during World War II and before the Romanov family was assassinated.

Fiona was lured to Russia under a romantic pretence by the ever so mysterious Frederick Fredericks and somehow gotten herself into jail. Kitty is there to rescue her and also working on one of their missions. Honestly, the murder part isn’t really a huge part of the book and I would say it’s more relevant during the second half.

Actually, this is my first book from the author and I have never read any of the books in the series but it was easy to understand the characters and their relationships. The writing was okay and overall it was a nice simple read. However, if you’re looking for an actual mystery book then this book isn’t it.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fine spy whodunit, part of the fab series with feisty Fiona Figg. Here she heads to Russia, where she becomes involved in a plot to topple the Bolsheviks. Thrilling!

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: A Delightful Blend of History and Mystery in "Murder in Moscow" by Kelly Oliver

Rating: 4 Stars

Kelly Oliver's "Murder in Moscow" takes readers on a thrilling journey to 1918 Moscow, where protagonist Fiona Figg finds herself entangled in a web of espionage, danger, and murder. Following her nemesis to Russia, Fiona's adventure unfolds at the grand Metropol Hotel, setting the stage for a captivating tale filled with twists and turns.

As Fiona delves deeper into the dangerous world of Bolshevik Russia, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue. The novel expertly weaves together elements of history, humor, and mystery, creating a fast-paced whodunit that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

One of the highlights of "Murder in Moscow" is its well-written characters, each with their own quirks and motivations that add depth to the story. From Fiona's daring escapades to Kitty Lane's relentless pursuit of the truth, the cast of characters brings the narrative to life in a vivid and engaging way.

The author's attention to detail shines through in the rich settings depicted throughout the book, transporting readers to the heart of Moscow during a tumultuous period in history. Whether it's the opulent British Embassy or the shadowy corridors of the Kremlin, each location is vividly portrayed, adding an immersive quality to the reading experience.

In addition, having recently watched "A Gentleman in Moscow," I was struck by how "Murder in Moscow" brought to mind the TV series. Oliver's adept storytelling shines through in this engaging novel, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction, mystery, and espionage.

In conclusion, "Murder in Moscow" is a delightful blend of history and mystery that will appeal to readers looking for a thrilling and engaging read. With its compelling narrative, well-developed characters, and evocative settings, this book comes highly recommended for anyone seeking an immersive literary experience. Kelly Oliver has crafted a gripping tale that will keep you guessing until the very end, making it a standout addition to the genre.

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

[Lynsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Murder in Moscow’ is a brilliant historical whodunit, with top-notch characters, fast-paced and packed full of action! This is the fifth book in the ‘Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane Mysteries’ but it can be read as a stand-alone very easily. The author provides all the salient points and I feel a new reader would pick up the narrative with no problems. I do recommend reading the whole series as it is great historical cosy crime.

It will come as no surprise due to the title that Fiona Figg has landed herself in Moscow, after following the German spy Frederick Fredericks there. But she is on personal business rather than spy business! She is following her heart but when she arrives there he is nowhere to be seen. Random point here as a big fan of ‘A Gentlemen in Moscow’ I loved that the Metropol Hotel was featured. Kitty lies to the War Office and says that Fiona is trailing Fredericks and hot-foots it to help her out and boy does Fiona need it, especially when she lands on the Cheka’s (secret police) radar…

I loved that this outing was a dual POV telling with both Fiona and Kitty having their own chapters. I always wondered what Kitty was getting up to in the background and now we know - basically being an awesome spy and saving people’s butts! Hopefully, this will continue into the rest of the series. It's a great cast of characters and they still have their secrets and readers don't know where they stand with them. Is Fredericks really a German agent and is Archie, Fiona’s beau a double agent?!

This was a fun read and I loved all the Russian history, politics and characters. But then I studied Russian history at uni so I am a bit biased. The author managed to tease out the high-level aspects that would affect the story but they still managed to pack it full of authentic and relatable details. I would say that there wasn't really an overreaching mystery like in the other books and the majority of the story was the gang trying to get out of scrapes but it was still an entertaining read!

Let me know if you pick this one up!

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona is in Moscow, taking a chance on Frederick Fredericks' word (he left her a letter at the end of the previous book telling her to meet him at the Metropole hotel the city. She arrives, with him nowhere to be found, and before too long, both she and a Countess are arrested and bundled off to prison, where Fiona endures a miserable several days.

Meanwhile, Kitty discovers Fredericks' letter to Finoa, and immediately jumps into action, heading to Moscow and, with Poppy's nose, tracking Fiona down and rescuing her and a number of other women from prison. After arriving at the dingy British consulate, Fiona is a bit alarmed to find a cold Archie Somersby there, along with a number of MI5 agents, all of whom are plotting against Lenin. As part of their plans, Fiona is to spend time undercover as a governess at the home of the head of the secret police so she can dig for info.

Whilst there, she figures out there's a mole amongst the British spies, and she and Kitty must figure out how to save their agents and possibly complete their mission.

It was interesting getting to spend some time in Kitty's head this time around, in addition to Fiona's (she's up till now been the sole PoV in this series). Kitty can't understand Fiona's hemming and hawing over Archie, much less Fiona's attraction to Fredericks, whom Kitty sees as nothing but a traitor. The two men in Fiona's life continue to pull her in different directions: I will admit I'm a bit ambivalent about Archie, especially after he gave Fiona an ultimatum in the last book, while Fredericks is doing awful things in every country he visits.

Of course the hapless and ridiculous Clifford is along for the ride, constantly interjecting stories of his glory days hunting big game, and generally being ineffective and needing careful handling and guidance by the women so that he does not thwart their efforts at accomplishing their goals.

No matter how flummoxed the men make her, they can't get in the way of Fiona's sleuthing, and she assumes disguises to infiltrate locations, finds clues, and proves, yet again, she's not only a detective, but an accomplished spy, despite her higher-ups reluctance to fully appreciate her skills.

This series, now on book eight, continues to entertain me. Fiona's a blast to spend time with, and she's funny, intelligent, and brave. I am excited to see what she gets up to next.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Boldwood Books for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow is a spy/espionage mystery set at the end of World War 1. The Bolsheviks are in control of Russia, the Tsar and his family have been arrested and are secluded somewhere and Lenin is ready to surrender to the Germans. Fiona Figg has gone to Russia to meet up with Frederick Fredericks, when she gets arrested and thrown into jail with Countess Brasova, the Tsar's sister-in-law. Meanwhile, Kitty Lake heads to Moscow with some other agents to stop the surrender and to find Fiona and get her safely out of Russia. With agents in disguise, double agents, secret plots and more, this story had me on the edge of my seat to see who escapes and who never leaves Russia.

This is the 8th Fiona Figg Mystery and 5th Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane Mystery, but the first I have read. I think it left me at a bit of a disadvantage for the beginning of the book, but once the story got going, I was fine. I do plan to read the previous books to get the full story. I love that the two main characters are women. The disguises they use were wonderful and I like how they use there wiles at times to get what they need. The men seem to be more supporting characters in this book, but they do play an important role. Fiona is smart, insightful, sneaky and able to get out of tricky situations, but sometimes needs help. Kitty has some awesome skills with her feet that help get Fiona and others away when they are being pursued. Poppy is Kitty's dog and also has some mad skills. There is an ongoing story involving Fiona, Frederick Fredericks and Archie which I'm not up to date on, but I am not a fan of love triangles. I will definitely read more in this series. Not only is there some history, but the stories are set all over Europe, so I get to armchair travel as well. If you enjoy an historical mystery involving spies, then I suggest you pick up this series.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow by Kelly Oliver

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

1918 Moscow

Will following her heart mean losing her head? It could mean losing her job.

Fiona Figg trails her nemesis Fredrick Fredricks to Moscow. But when she arrives at the grand Metropol Hotel, the bounder has vanished.

After Fiona doesn’t show up for work at the War Office, Kitty Lane raises a red flag and tracks her to Russia. Seeking haven at the British Embassy, Kitty and Fiona become embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Bolshevik government.

But the plot turns deadly when Fiona goes undercover as a governess in the household of Iron Viktor, the Bolsheviks’ Head of Secret Police. And when Viktor turns up dead in his study, Fiona finds herself wanted for murder and on the lam.

Can Fiona and Kitty find the real killer and escape the Kremlin before it’s too late? Or will this dangerous game of Russian roulette be their last?

My Opinion

I am trying to read more historical fiction, and this is the second book I have read in the series. From what I have read this is a great series and relatively easy to get lost in. Fiona has a habit of getting into trouble and this book is no exception - this book is mostly told from Fiona's perspective but we do get to see a bit from the perspective of Kitty.

For me, this was a great cosy mystery and this series is really helping me in my quest to enjoy more historical fiction. At less than 250 pages, I read this book in a few short hours - I started it and whilst I only wanted to read a few chapters I didn't actually manage to put the book down until I had read over 30%.

Rating 4/5

[Seriesbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the fifth instalment in the Kitty Lane and Fiona Rigg mysteries. Here is my review of Murder in Moscow by Kelly Oliver- historical thriller.
I received a copy of the book for a free and unbiased opinion.
Although, this is the fifth book in the series, Murder in Moscow can be read as a standalone without any difficulty. Although I would recommend reading all the books the series to truly appreciate Fiona’s complicated love life.
As always, the book is based on real events in history, and I was fascinated to read about the Ambassador plot and how Russia changed when the Bolsheviks came to power. I was fascinated with the Tsarist movement and their plot to bring the Tsar back to power.
Fiona has run off to Moscow following her heart ( or lust) to be with the Fredricks but of course becomes embroiled with a Countess and thrown into prison. Kitty comes to her rescue and but Fiona has to go undercover as Nanny in the head of secret service household.
There is plenty of action, humour and of course romance with a murder mystery thrown in. Kitty has more of role in this book with her own POV chapters, but she remains as mysterious as ever. I would have liked to have more Clifford but Fiona finally makes a choice between her two men!
Fiona remains a complicated mix of a woman who leads a free life and enjoys espionage but is also prim and proper but as always, she has a hilarious view on life.
Perfect for Fans
Of cosy historical murder mysteries

[Kristine Booksandstuff123 · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Murder in Moscow' by Kelly Oliver.
1918 Moscow
Will following her heart mean losing her head? It could mean losing her job.
Fiona Figg trails her nemesis Fredrick Fredricks to Moscow. But when she arrives at the grand Metropol Hotel, the bounder has vanished.
After Fiona doesn’t show up for work at the War Office, Kitty Lane raises a red flag and tracks her to Russia. Seeking haven at the British Embassy, Kitty and Fiona become embroiled in a plot to overthrow the Bolshevik government.
But the plot turns deadly when Fiona goes undercover as a governess in the household of Iron Viktor, the Bolsheviks’ Head of Secret Police. And when Viktor turns up dead in his study, Fiona finds herself wanted for murder.
Can Fiona and Kitty find the real killer and escape the Kremlin before it’s too late? Or will this dangerous game of Russian roulette be their last?
I've read quite a few of this series and I love them. They're full of adventure, spies, disguises and an adorable dog called Poppy.
I was shocked on who the killer was in this, I guessed a bit earlier on but I didn't think for a moment I would be right. It was an enjoyable read and I recommend it to anyone who loves a good murder mystery.
Thanks to NetGallery UK, the publishers and the author for letting me read this in return for an honest review.

[Haley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had never read any books in this series (not sure how that happened as it is just the kind of thing I'd enjoy!) but was intrigued by the description so thought I'd put a request for an ARC in. I am so happy I did! I found this book utterly delightful. The characters were great, I enjoyed the pacing, setting, plot...pretty much everything. I have always had a fascination with Russia/the Soviet Union so that was definitely in the book's favor. I was a bit confused about how characters related to each other at first, but chalked that up to having never read the series before & as the book went on I figured it out. I will be going back to read the rest of the books in the series, which I think is the highest praise I can give a book like this. I love that it is different than your typical cozy mystery because of the spying, but you still get a murder to solve. I am looking forward to reading more books in the series!

I am very stingy with 5 star ratings & only give them to books that become my favorites or basically change my life, so 4 stars means I really enjoyed a book. I do think this book would be even more enjoyable if you have read others in the series, but I obviously enjoyed it as a standalone.
Thank you to NetGalley & Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona Figg follows her heart and the dastardly Fredrick Fredricks to Russia where she is quickly arrested by the Cheka (secret police). Can Kitty save her?
Murder in Moscow is the 5th book in the Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane series of cosy spy and murder mysteries set during WW1.
Despite her doubts, Fiona travels to Russia to meet Fredrick. Instead of a rendezvous, she is arrested alongside a Russian countess and hauled to a prison. Her rescue is organised by Kitty but she is straight back into action working undercover as a nanny for the infamous head of police.
I really like this series of books. There is such a wonderful humour to the tone and style of writing. Most of the book is written from Fiona's first person narration so we hear her inner voice commenting on her experience. Other chapters are written to show Kitty's third person perspective on events.
Fiona and Kitty are wonderful characters in their own right but superb when working together. The relationships in the book have developed over the earlier ones in the series but there are no spoilers about any previous plot twists. The romantic tension with Archie and Fredrick continues to occupy Fiona's thoughts even whilst in danger!
Murder in Moscow is an enjoyable historical spy and murder mystery and a great addition to the series.

[Eunice R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Flicks of humor, danger and suspense zip through this entertaining historical tale as Aunt Fiona Figg and Kittie Lane, along with Poppy-poo, strike again, this time in Moscow. The setting time frame involves the time Russia pulled out of the war (WWI). The murder of the Cheka chief turns things up a notch and the protagonists must scurry.

There are several true-to-life characters personified within this tale with others such as Archie and Frederick Fredericks garnered along side them and whom we meet again here from the first and second books in this Fiona Figg and Kittie Lane mystery series.

Murder in Moscow has been an enjoyable read that ended with a satisfactory smile upon my face. Although this novel can thrive as a stand alone work, anyone who likes Sherlock Holmes-like detecting will most likely like this third-in-a-series saga and wish they'd also read the previous offerings just as cleverly orchestrated by authoress Kelly Oliver.

Three cheers and a 4-Star rating from me.

~Eunice C. Reviwer/Blogger~

March 2024

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

[Vintagebooklvr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Moscow 1918. The early days of Soviet rule and the city is rife with intrigue, politics and desperate people trying to survive. Aristocrats and the new regime deal, clash and in some cases murder. Then come two unlikely spies, Fiona Figg, with her unholy attachment to disguises, and Kitty Lane, who will not be parted from her adorable dog. A madcap adventure, mayhem and murder ensue. Will Fiona and Kitty be able to solve the case and escape Russia before it is too late?

Fiona and Kitty are a fun bunch and good for some laughs. I also love the spirit of both women. Fiona is determined to live life on her own terms and not let society strictures stop her. That undaunted spirit gets her into plenty of trouble but, with Kitty's bit more down-to-earth personality, it also gets her out of it (well most of the time) and the job done.

Murder, a bit of romance, adventure and laughs. What more could you ask for? While you can understand what is going on without reading the books before it will paint a more full picture of the loves and circumstances of these two.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had fun, well-established characters and was a fast read both because of its short length and tight writing style. There was a good balance of action and breathing room, with enough details to put you in the characters’ shoes without over-explaining. Fiona’s inner conflicts were detailed in a sympathetic way, and the humor in the book rarely missed for me.

This is book 8 in a series, but the story itself was fairly contained and it was easy to infer character relationships and histories. I liked the setting and characters a lot, and the mystery was complicated enough to be a fun challenge as a reader. This book sets up some big things for future volumes in the series, so while there isn’t a whole lot of payoff personally for the characters this time around, those looking to continue the series will find plenty to keep them occupied with until the next book.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This is my honest review.

4/5 A compact, high spirited Russian mystery.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

She flashed her broken smile again... She smelled like stale onions and weasel.

Even after I’d scrubbed with the perfumed soap, I still smelled the lingering scent of fear.

I looked like a prudish spinster destined to spend the rest of her life reading about romance instead of actually experiencing it.

When she spoke, she sounded like a honeybee buzzing, soft and melodious.

I thought of one of my grandmother’s sayings: Old enough to know better and young enough not to care. I was neither.

My Review:

This installment of the popular series gave me new respect for the clever Kitty Lane, she is quite resourceful as well as agile. The engaging storylines were active, lushly detailed, unpredictable, and populated with a wide assortment of complex characters and occasional lashings of humorous observations. Ms. Oliver’s devious scheming is far too smart for me. The little pea in my brain was unable to put the various clues together to arrive at any semblance of the end result.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, for a book tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is a Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane mystery. These are historical cosy mysteries set in the early 20th century. In each book, Fiona and Kitty travel to a different location with their cute little dog, Poppy. This time, the murder and mayhem takes place in Moscow.

I've read most of the previous books in this series, and as a fan of historical cosy mysteries, I always enjoy them. Fiona and Kitty are always such fun characters to read about, and just as I expected, this was a lighthearted, entertaining read. It was humorous, easy to read in one sitting, and I also found it interesting in a historical and political context.

Although this is part of a series, I think it could be enjoyed as a standalone too. If you enjoy historical mysteries or cosy mysteries with a touch of humour, I would recommend this, or any of the previous books by this author.

Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though this was book 5 in a series-- I quickly picked up the characters and situation without needing the back story -making it easy to read as a standalone but also well written to make one want to read the backstory and find out about Fiona and Kitty's further adventures.
This was a fast-paced cozy spy novel -- with thrilling moments and strong female lead characters- this book would also fall under historical fiction as the story takes place during the Bolshevik revolution time of 1918. The ending was a bit lack-lustre but I think it leaves it open for another book in the series and it is supposed to feel like more to come. The investigation of the murder in the story was well played with some good clues and good red herrings as well. Overall the book was an enjoyable read with a good balance of thrilling, mystery and ridiculous humour.

Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for this ARC . This is my honest review.

[J · Rating 3 out of 5]

As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot or the publisher's blurb! I recommend that you read this for yourself if you are a fan of the "cozy mystery" genre.

I've read the earlier books in the "Fiona Figg" series, and always enjoyed them; this one was no exception. Fiona Figg (still bemoaning the loss of her hair from an earlier novel!) returns, this time in Moscow of all places! Tasked with a genuine assignment (thanks to Kitty!) after following the entertainingly-named Frederick Fredericks, Fiona gets to flex her spy muscles properly, as well as taking every opportunity to dress up in character - a fun aspect of the books.

The novel features the usual crew, together with a cast of new supporting characters. Kitty's character is given more of a focus than usual, and little Poppy is along for the ride too. As usual, there is a tongue-in-cheek feel to the novel.

Recommended for lovers of "cosy mystery" and spy novels, who enjoy a touch of humour too.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for an ARC. All opinions my own.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this historical series. Although this is down the line in the collection of novels, it reads rather well on its own. I like Oliver taking readers to different locations in this series, now to Moscow. We are immersed in the tension between the Bolsheviks and those still loyal to the Czar. Additional tension is added as some are trying to make peace between the Bolshevik government and the Germans.

I appreciate the possibility of British female spies during WW I. I like Kitty and her scientific abilities to investigate evidence. I was getting a bit tired of Fiona's inability to choose ultimate romance between Archie and Frederick but it seems she may have done so here. Or has she? It looks like there will be additional adventures for Kitty and Fiona so I will be watching for them.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 1/2 *

I had never read the Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane series before being given this ARC, So naturally, I went back and read the previous released books to get to know the characters. And I was not disappointed! Oliver's series set during WWI is intriguing, well-written, and not what I expected. More of a cozy-historical fiction-mystery series - think more Rhys Bowen's Royal Spyness series than Jacqueline Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series. With Murder in Moscow, however, Oliver does an even better job of ramping up the gripping intrigue and peril - while still maintaining some of the lightheartedness that I enjoyed about her previous books. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Murder in Moscow and can't wait for Fiona and Kitty's next adventure.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Ms. Oliver for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Carolina CHC · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow is the fifth book of the series Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane Mystery.

This time, Fiona decides to follow her heart and meet Frederick Fredericks in Moscow. However, when she arrives in the middle of political chaos she gets entangled in the mess with few option to get out. Kitty is the hero of the story. She is constantly saving Fiona from making a life mistake while also keeping her alive.

Who knows what the next adventure will bring and if finally Fiona is ready to choose her partner in life and mission.

I personally enjoyed the book even though I found Fiona’s love entangled kind of trying.

I just reviewed Murder in Moscow by Kelly Oliver. #MurderinMoscow #NetGalley

[Inishowen Cailín · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow is the thrilling and humorous fifth book in the series. Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane make a fantastic duo as both are talented spies in their own ways. Fiona makes clever use of disguise whereas Kitty is good in a fight and is often the person who comes to Fiona's rescue.
I was anxious for Fiona at the beginning of the novel when she was arrested by the Cheka. Arrest in a foreign land during a civil war is never a good thing. It isn't long before she is caught up in another investigation and murder. With daring escapades, suspense and drama there isn't a dull moment.
I had very high hopes for Fiona and Ferdrick Fredricks at the end of the last novel so I was surprised at the turn of events in this book. I still have questions about both men but I have a soft spot for Fredrick and I get the sense that it's with him where Fiona's heart truly lies. Only time will tell and I'll be tagging along their journey to find out.

[Jayra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley & publisher for this eARC.

First of all, I did not know that this is the fifth installment of the series, so I was confused.
Almost DNF but I was so curious on how the story unfold plus it is less than 300 pages so I just went through it.

The decision to keep reading was not disappoint at all, I get it how the author managed to write 5th book for this series because it was a fun read - unpredictable, the pace of the mystery was smart tbh, also love the interaction between Fiona & Kitty - definitely a cozy historical mystery with humour.

Hopefully I can manage to read the rest of the series. And recommend to anyone who is looking for mystery with humorous bits.

[TF · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murder in Moscow is a cosy mystery set in Moscow in 1918. It is the fifth book in the Fiona Figg/Kitty Lane series and the 8th book featuring Fiona Figg. I personally found the story very frenzied and chaotic - it's the first book I've read by this author and I think knowing the back stories of all the characters would probably have helped! That said, it was intriguing in places and I enjoyed the 'Marvel' style of alliteration for the main characters - Fiona Figg, Fredrick Fredrick's etc - there's even a Natasha Romanov! For me personally I found the style of the book to be too frivolous but it might suit a young adult reader.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.

[R Evans · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a readable, tension filled murder mystery that belongs in an ongoing series. This one is based in Moscow just after the revolution, a violent t8me in Russian history when the Bolshevik government was trying t9 east abolish it. The main characters are two indemnity’s female spies seeking t9 promote British interests and undermine the new Russian government. There is an ongoing love story where one soy is caught between a steady English officer and a notorious, charismatic German agent. This figure is based on a historic figure, so while this is an enjoyable novel, it opens a window on the subterfuge taking place during and between the world wars. Informative stuff!

[Abby Vega · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was my first Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane mystery & first book from Kelly Oliver.

It’s a bit of historical fiction mixed in which is fun but, for me a bit hard to follow! There were a lot of characters and political allegiances from the war that were a bit tricky to keep track of.

It was definitely an intriguing book but a little bit to frivolous for me in regard to what I’m looking for when it comes to mysteries or thrillers. This gave Nancy Drew vibes or something just a bit more light-hearted and far-fetched with all the disguises and flippancy. I felt I was waiting for a big twist or discovery in the mystery and just felt a bit underwhelmed at the ending.