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The Betrayed Bride
Sweet heiress Poppy Morton is finally engaged to the man she loves, but a former childhood love is out to steal him.
Poppy and her beloved Sergeant Henry Dyngley are engaged. But her future sister-in-law is dismissive of her humble origins and newly inherited wealth, and while Henry and his brother try to hide Poppy’s illegitimacy from their father, a former childhood love of Henry’s arrives, with a claim that they are in fact, engaged.
Miss Honoria Penwrith is everything Poppy is not; a former aristocrat from a family close to the Dyngleys who is now down on her luck, she is welcomed by the Dyngleys as one of their own. But despite Henry’s promise that he is loyal to Poppy, Miss Penwrith does everything she can to separate the happy couple.
On the eve of a storm, the families come together at the Dyngleys’ manor, when Poppy’s origin as the illegitimate daughter of a peer and his mistress is exposed, ruining all chances she has of marrying the man she loves. But when Sir Dyngley is attacked, a knife is left in a guest’s pillow, and Miss Penwrith’s wedding dress is ruined, trouble is afoot.
Trapped together until the storm lessens, no one is safe, and everyone is a suspect. Someone is causing little disturbances, but who? Could it be the ghost that stalks the halls? Amidst death, engagements, and dishonor, Poppy and Henry must find out who is behind this, or discover the true meaning of betrayal.
Welcome to the final book in the exciting new series The Perfect Poison Murders from bestselling author E.L. Johnson!
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
Poppy and her beloved Sergeant Henry Dyngley are engaged. But her future sister-in-law is dismissive of her humble origins and newly inherited wealth, and while Henry and his brother try to hide Poppy’s illegitimacy from their father, a former childhood love of Henry’s arrives, with a claim that they are in fact, engaged.
Miss Honoria Penwrith is everything Poppy is not; a former aristocrat from a family close to the Dyngleys who is now down on her luck, she is welcomed by the Dyngleys as one of their own. But despite Henry’s promise that he is loyal to Poppy, Miss Penwrith does everything she can to separate the happy couple.
On the eve of a storm, the families come together at the Dyngleys’ manor, when Poppy’s origin as the illegitimate daughter of a peer and his mistress is exposed, ruining all chances she has of marrying the man she loves. But when Sir Dyngley is attacked, a knife is left in a guest’s pillow, and Miss Penwrith’s wedding dress is ruined, trouble is afoot.
Trapped together until the storm lessens, no one is safe, and everyone is a suspect. Someone is causing little disturbances, but who? Could it be the ghost that stalks the halls? Amidst death, engagements, and dishonor, Poppy and Henry must find out who is behind this, or discover the true meaning of betrayal.
Welcome to the final book in the exciting new series The Perfect Poison Murders from bestselling author E.L. Johnson!
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 23, 2024
About the author
E.L. Johnson
16 books37 followersI write novels. I'm a member of the Hertford Writers’ Circle and won the Sci-Fi London Film Festival’s 2014 48 hour Flash Fiction challenge.
When not penning stories I'm an avid reader, a decent epeé fencer, and live with my husband and cat Arya, named after the Game of Thrones character.
I also run a chatty book club in London and sometimes sing in metal bands in London.
Want fun updates from me on writing, fav tweets, lotsa books and mini mysteries?
Sign up to my newsletter: https://eljohnsonstories.weebly.com/c...
When not penning stories I'm an avid reader, a decent epeé fencer, and live with my husband and cat Arya, named after the Game of Thrones character.
I also run a chatty book club in London and sometimes sing in metal bands in London.
Want fun updates from me on writing, fav tweets, lotsa books and mini mysteries?
Sign up to my newsletter: https://eljohnsonstories.weebly.com/c...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 17, 2024
Great Finish
I was annoyed with Henry for more than half of this book. He was too weak. Too wishy washy.I hated the way he let everyone treat Poppy. But he came around and developed a backbone in the end.
I was annoyed with Henry for more than half of this book. He was too weak. Too wishy washy.I hated the way he let everyone treat Poppy. But he came around and developed a backbone in the end.
February 28, 2024
I absolutely love this series featuring Poppy and Henry, their blossoming relationship, and their clever sleuthing skills. This is the last in this series, and I admit to finding the constant back and forth between Petunia and Henry about Poppy and how unsuitable she is to marry into the family irritating. It took up a great deal of the book, and I reached 70% before the meat of the plot was explored! In saying that, it is a satisfying read and wraps up the series well. It's an easy read, perfect for a summer holiday.
February 22, 2024
3.75 Stars
Poppy and her beloved Sergeant Henry Dyngley are engaged. But a former childhood love of Henry’s arrives, with a claim that they are in fact, engaged. Miss Honoria Penwrith is everything Poppy is not & she is welcomed by the Dyngleys as one of their own. But despite Henry’s promise that he is loyal to Poppy, Miss Penwrith does everything she can to separate the happy couple. On the eve of a storm, the families come together at the Dyngleys’ manor, & Poppy’s origin as the illegitimate daughter of a peer and his mistress is exposed, ruining all chances she has of marrying the man she loves. But when Sir Dyngley is attacked, a knife is left in a guest’s pillow, and Miss Penwrith’s wedding dress is ruined, trouble is afoot.
The fifth book in the series & another well written book but I must admit I was disappointed with Henry in this book & wanted to shake him several times! I do love Poppy, she’s strong & won’t back down. I disliked most of the other characters & I think if I’d have been Poppy I’d have walked away! I found the first half of the book slow but the pace did pick up in the second half & it was the mystery that kept me reading. There were twists & turns before all was revealed. Not my favourite of the series but still an enjoyable read
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Poppy and her beloved Sergeant Henry Dyngley are engaged. But a former childhood love of Henry’s arrives, with a claim that they are in fact, engaged. Miss Honoria Penwrith is everything Poppy is not & she is welcomed by the Dyngleys as one of their own. But despite Henry’s promise that he is loyal to Poppy, Miss Penwrith does everything she can to separate the happy couple. On the eve of a storm, the families come together at the Dyngleys’ manor, & Poppy’s origin as the illegitimate daughter of a peer and his mistress is exposed, ruining all chances she has of marrying the man she loves. But when Sir Dyngley is attacked, a knife is left in a guest’s pillow, and Miss Penwrith’s wedding dress is ruined, trouble is afoot.
The fifth book in the series & another well written book but I must admit I was disappointed with Henry in this book & wanted to shake him several times! I do love Poppy, she’s strong & won’t back down. I disliked most of the other characters & I think if I’d have been Poppy I’d have walked away! I found the first half of the book slow but the pace did pick up in the second half & it was the mystery that kept me reading. There were twists & turns before all was revealed. Not my favourite of the series but still an enjoyable read
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 1, 2024
The Betrayed Bride. My fellow readers. WTH! OMG! All I can say is. You have got to read this book. It was amazing. It was exciting. It was entertaining. It was fantastic.
This book hit the ball out of the park for me for the year of 2024. From the first word’s of Chapter One Faulkbourne Manor, Essex, July 1807. I held on tight and didn’t let go of my iPad. I enjoyed the story immensely. The plot was engaging.
It worked very well with the time frame, the characters and the objectives of the story. The storyline was phenomenal. I loved how this writer gave me a story and transformed the story into a movie for my imagination. The book almost had everything. There were some intense scenes where Aunt Rachel and myself were mentally saying, “choke her”.
Just take her in the broom closet and choke her. No one will miss her. Aunt Rachel is my girl. We both think a like. That’s why I chose her as my favorite character.
Poppy really needs to step up though. With how she’s slipping, girls will never run the world. The issue with Henry, Poppy should have handled him a long time ago. The ever present mystery along with the ghosts stories surrounding the Faulkner home definitely kept the candles burning through the night. The strange often times frightening mishaps down the dark corridors of the home exposed some of the intense parts of the book.
Let’s not forget Loony Ben Honoria. Talk about Fatal attraction. I know you remember that movie. The villains are deceitfully good. Their characters walked through the home without one ounce of suspicion.
That’s nothing but good quality writing there. But their is one character. One character who got on my ever living last nerve. Petunia Dyngley. That attic would not have looked the same after I have left her to her cigarette break.
Can you just imagine her Quivering, trying to light the cigarette with her hair askew. Her dress ripped. Mascara all down the side of her face. And the hole time she’s trying to puff on a cigarette that needs lit. Back to our FMC. Oh please don’t hold her back. We saw this coming. We deserve to see this happen. Oh sweet Honoria your time is due.
Just let me get my popcorn and soda pop. Shhh. Turn out the lights. Grab your blankets, because this is really a good one. Here it comes.
Oh yes slap her now. Just Swing your arm back, let it come forward and give her a great big sting. Yes, a good slap is how you handle a lunatic playing in a Diva’s game.
Oh dear sweet Petunia. High and mighty, Christian where for art thou Christian Petunia.
You turned coat so many times in this mystery. If you had been apart of George Washington’s treaty. He would have shot you down before you could even cross his threshold. Loving Aunt Rachel. The most kindest and sweetest one of the lot.
Why didn’t you just pack your valise that first night? You could have said, to hell with you filthy lot, as you slammed your way out the door without one remorse of looking back? Little Author screamed, Nooooo. You are not leaving me here all alone with these crazy filthy lot. You are the only soft, squishy, smell good person I’ve come in contact with.
And besides. Theirs a murder out there. I’m worth something! I would be the first person that they would kidnap. My psychotic mother doesn’t know where I am half the time and my father— yeah my father.
Remind me next time when I see him to ask him, what the hell were you thinking?
You had to have been drunk, because there’s know way oil and water created me. Want someone help me now? Please help me now. Detach this false profits, claiming to be my mother claws from me now, and bring me back to the loving arms of Auntie Rachel.
As I look at you mommy dearest, I have already reserved your private room at the asylum. The key shall remain with Aunt Susan. If she will have them? He he he. Who is this Susan if she is shot?
Tom are you sure of how you feel about a woman that you just met? Because, as we all know once your involved, you’re in deep with two families that has gone completely psycho? If I where you, I would go to bed with a butcher knife and sleep with one wide eye open. Alas you’ve come to pay your call. Cu -cu for co -co nuts Miss Honoria Penworth.
Or Is there another Pseudonym you’re going by now? Sit down somewhere little girl. Miss Morton would have eaten you like meat pie. Then she would have Regurgitate you back up. Then after that.
She would have whacked you out of the back garden with Henry’s cricket bat. It’s my turn now. That’s right. Someone with more experience and intelligent mindset needs to to take the reins. Your mucking up everything that I worked so hard for.
Stand back. Mind your step now. Watch how a pro gets his way. Let the records show that these two took the blows. Henry and Poppy, Gretna Green would have been so much easier. Who is this man?
I’m in my unmentionables! Please get him from me! Nanny theirs a intruder in the nursery. Oh it’s only him. He is a man- who only comes to my nursery, just to stare and see if I still breathe. For what is a man, what has he got?
I don’t want it all. Just take it all. I have a new nanny named Miss. Penworthy. Yes.
I did it my way. I Lord Author Dyngley give this book two snaps and a, Oh Lord can’t these people ever kill someone properly? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
This book hit the ball out of the park for me for the year of 2024. From the first word’s of Chapter One Faulkbourne Manor, Essex, July 1807. I held on tight and didn’t let go of my iPad. I enjoyed the story immensely. The plot was engaging.
It worked very well with the time frame, the characters and the objectives of the story. The storyline was phenomenal. I loved how this writer gave me a story and transformed the story into a movie for my imagination. The book almost had everything. There were some intense scenes where Aunt Rachel and myself were mentally saying, “choke her”.
Just take her in the broom closet and choke her. No one will miss her. Aunt Rachel is my girl. We both think a like. That’s why I chose her as my favorite character.
Poppy really needs to step up though. With how she’s slipping, girls will never run the world. The issue with Henry, Poppy should have handled him a long time ago. The ever present mystery along with the ghosts stories surrounding the Faulkner home definitely kept the candles burning through the night. The strange often times frightening mishaps down the dark corridors of the home exposed some of the intense parts of the book.
Let’s not forget Loony Ben Honoria. Talk about Fatal attraction. I know you remember that movie. The villains are deceitfully good. Their characters walked through the home without one ounce of suspicion.
That’s nothing but good quality writing there. But their is one character. One character who got on my ever living last nerve. Petunia Dyngley. That attic would not have looked the same after I have left her to her cigarette break.
Can you just imagine her Quivering, trying to light the cigarette with her hair askew. Her dress ripped. Mascara all down the side of her face. And the hole time she’s trying to puff on a cigarette that needs lit. Back to our FMC. Oh please don’t hold her back. We saw this coming. We deserve to see this happen. Oh sweet Honoria your time is due.
Just let me get my popcorn and soda pop. Shhh. Turn out the lights. Grab your blankets, because this is really a good one. Here it comes.
Oh yes slap her now. Just Swing your arm back, let it come forward and give her a great big sting. Yes, a good slap is how you handle a lunatic playing in a Diva’s game.
Oh dear sweet Petunia. High and mighty, Christian where for art thou Christian Petunia.
You turned coat so many times in this mystery. If you had been apart of George Washington’s treaty. He would have shot you down before you could even cross his threshold. Loving Aunt Rachel. The most kindest and sweetest one of the lot.
Why didn’t you just pack your valise that first night? You could have said, to hell with you filthy lot, as you slammed your way out the door without one remorse of looking back? Little Author screamed, Nooooo. You are not leaving me here all alone with these crazy filthy lot. You are the only soft, squishy, smell good person I’ve come in contact with.
And besides. Theirs a murder out there. I’m worth something! I would be the first person that they would kidnap. My psychotic mother doesn’t know where I am half the time and my father— yeah my father.
Remind me next time when I see him to ask him, what the hell were you thinking?
You had to have been drunk, because there’s know way oil and water created me. Want someone help me now? Please help me now. Detach this false profits, claiming to be my mother claws from me now, and bring me back to the loving arms of Auntie Rachel.
As I look at you mommy dearest, I have already reserved your private room at the asylum. The key shall remain with Aunt Susan. If she will have them? He he he. Who is this Susan if she is shot?
Tom are you sure of how you feel about a woman that you just met? Because, as we all know once your involved, you’re in deep with two families that has gone completely psycho? If I where you, I would go to bed with a butcher knife and sleep with one wide eye open. Alas you’ve come to pay your call. Cu -cu for co -co nuts Miss Honoria Penworth.
Or Is there another Pseudonym you’re going by now? Sit down somewhere little girl. Miss Morton would have eaten you like meat pie. Then she would have Regurgitate you back up. Then after that.
She would have whacked you out of the back garden with Henry’s cricket bat. It’s my turn now. That’s right. Someone with more experience and intelligent mindset needs to to take the reins. Your mucking up everything that I worked so hard for.
Stand back. Mind your step now. Watch how a pro gets his way. Let the records show that these two took the blows. Henry and Poppy, Gretna Green would have been so much easier. Who is this man?
I’m in my unmentionables! Please get him from me! Nanny theirs a intruder in the nursery. Oh it’s only him. He is a man- who only comes to my nursery, just to stare and see if I still breathe. For what is a man, what has he got?
I don’t want it all. Just take it all. I have a new nanny named Miss. Penworthy. Yes.
I did it my way. I Lord Author Dyngley give this book two snaps and a, Oh Lord can’t these people ever kill someone properly? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
February 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this book was beginning to wonder if those two would ever get married. The story gives you some insight into what it was like to marry to keep your family afloat. Lots of nasty people in this book ones you enjoy disliking.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2024
Great story
I have enjoyed reading about Miss Poppy . Morton and Sergeant
Degnley! I sincerely hope that I be able to share more of their future adventures.
I have enjoyed reading about Miss Poppy . Morton and Sergeant
Degnley! I sincerely hope that I be able to share more of their future adventures.
February 27, 2024
Murder and a Marriage
I enjoyed trying to figure out who was behind all the dastardly deeds in this book. Some I did get right others I didn't. A very enjoyable mystery.
I enjoyed trying to figure out who was behind all the dastardly deeds in this book. Some I did get right others I didn't. A very enjoyable mystery.
February 26, 2024
Very entertaining. I read it straight through. Poppy certainly shows her mettle as she has her wedding plans disrupted and is forced to stay in a house with people who don't like her.
March 6, 2024
Has a little of everything almost
A charming story filled with mystery, plot twists, and love. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful easy to read story. You definitely cannot miss it. with a ghost, murder, poisoning, lies and intrigue.
A charming story filled with mystery, plot twists, and love. I really enjoyed reading this wonderful easy to read story. You definitely cannot miss it. with a ghost, murder, poisoning, lies and intrigue.
February 15, 2024
The Betrayed Bride is the 5th book in The Perfect Poison Murders series. Poppy Morton is engaged to Henry Dyngleu, and are staying at the Dyngley manor with a bunch of other relatives during a rainstorm. Honoria Penwrith shows up at the door, claiming that she is already betrothed to Henry. I will say that Miss Penwrith is one of the annoying and vexing characters I have ever seen. Bad things start to happen to the crew here, who can't escape because of the torrential downpour. Murder happens. There are so many twists - there's no way I had a chance of figuring out who dunnit, before the reveal.
September 6, 2024
The Betrayed Bride is the final installment in this series and as usual, the story gets bogged down with too many convoluted plots and unlikely/unlikable characters.
This series would have much worked better had the focus remained on Poppy and Henry working as a team. But in this book, Henry was such a spineless wimp. At least Petunia remained true to her character.
Also, it’s beyond belief that Lord Blackwood would try to foist his illegitimate issue onto his wife and children, especially since the man only recently found out about Poppy’s existence. And no way would a peer allow such a lowlife as Tom to court his daughter.
The murderer was so obvious that it was no surprise at the reveal. Overall, I found these five books a fast read and bring a complete series is a bonus.
This series would have much worked better had the focus remained on Poppy and Henry working as a team. But in this book, Henry was such a spineless wimp. At least Petunia remained true to her character.
Also, it’s beyond belief that Lord Blackwood would try to foist his illegitimate issue onto his wife and children, especially since the man only recently found out about Poppy’s existence. And no way would a peer allow such a lowlife as Tom to court his daughter.
The murderer was so obvious that it was no surprise at the reveal. Overall, I found these five books a fast read and bring a complete series is a bonus.
March 10, 2024
Everything seems to be going well for Poppy and Henry, well until family gets involved and an old family friend shows up that claims Henry has promised to wed her. They are all trapped inside due to a storm and the perfect murder mystery setting begins.
Oh the amount of sabotage in this book by Miss Penwrith. She is such an evil character and doesn't have really any redeeming qualities. So the fighting between her and Poppy really fuels the fire in this book.
When injuries and accidents start happening, is there one murder out there or are all the incidents unrelated. This book finally picked up when the mystery started, but it took way to long to get there. It was really the last third of the book. I think that the unfortunate events could have been spread out more to build some suspense instead of just the girl drana for a huge portion of the book.
As far as the reveal, I had an inkling of who was behind things when the mystery started. Some characters just seemed out of place in the plot and usually end up being part of the twist.
Overall this book tied up Poppy and Henry's story nicely. With a few tweaks the mystery could have been even more impactful.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Oh the amount of sabotage in this book by Miss Penwrith. She is such an evil character and doesn't have really any redeeming qualities. So the fighting between her and Poppy really fuels the fire in this book.
When injuries and accidents start happening, is there one murder out there or are all the incidents unrelated. This book finally picked up when the mystery started, but it took way to long to get there. It was really the last third of the book. I think that the unfortunate events could have been spread out more to build some suspense instead of just the girl drana for a huge portion of the book.
As far as the reveal, I had an inkling of who was behind things when the mystery started. Some characters just seemed out of place in the plot and usually end up being part of the twist.
Overall this book tied up Poppy and Henry's story nicely. With a few tweaks the mystery could have been even more impactful.
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
May 5, 2024
Henry and Poppy are engaged. The banns have been announced twice, but once again someone is trying to tear them apart. Several friends and family that came for the wedding are stuck in Henry's home during several days of storms. Strange things are happening. Could it be a ghost? Henry is consistently doing nothing to defend Poppy or saying the wrong words. I see him as a very neglectful suitor. Can you tell I don't think very highly of Henry? This is the last book in the series. Just think, if there were more books with Henry and Poppy working together as a married couple solving crimes.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
February 18, 2024
4 stars
I've read other books in this series and I remember finding the last one a bit young. This one was very similar. I felt Henry was a real fool. I didn't think he was taking money from his family, in fact I think he was contributing to them so why is he so hung up on what they think and so quickly throws Poppy under the bus or in this case wiggles out of his engagement.
I must admit I sorted out who was the problem and who was the main baddy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I've read other books in this series and I remember finding the last one a bit young. This one was very similar. I felt Henry was a real fool. I didn't think he was taking money from his family, in fact I think he was contributing to them so why is he so hung up on what they think and so quickly throws Poppy under the bus or in this case wiggles out of his engagement.
I must admit I sorted out who was the problem and who was the main baddy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2024
The fifth story in the Perfect Poison Murders, another enthralling mystery story. Heiress Poppy Morton and her beloved Sergeant Henry Dyngley's story. They will have to find out what is happening in the Dyngleys’ manor. A story that kept me turning pages until the end. The story is well worth reading with its suspense, drama, twists, turns and a happy ending.
May 10, 2024
Such a fun read! I thoroughly enjoyed curling up with this 5th book in the Perfect Poison series. I felt very invested in the characters and had to know their outcomes. Loved it!
February 18, 2024
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I will start by saying that Poppy is one of my favorite characters of all time. I love how she doesn't back down even when no one seems to be on her side and that she always follows her instincts. I continued to love her throughout this book, but, with the exception of Aunt Rachel, I found I could not stand any of the other women. Petunia was being her usually snotty self, Lady Blackwood is awful, and I wanted nothing more than for Miss Penwrith to just go away (which was the point). I didn't understand why Petunia was pushing Henry toward breaking things off with Poppy in favor of Miss Penwrith (because with all her concerns about Henry's marriage bringing money why would she want a penniless wife for him?) until I realized she didn't really want her as a sister-in-law either, she just needed something to get between Poppy and Henry. Susan had some good moments, but she still didn't treat Poppy all that well. As for the men, with the exception of Tom, I was ready for all of them to just go away as well. Henry is particularly spineless - I entered this book still upset with the way he handled things in the previous book and he did very little to change my opinion of him. He clearly had no control over anything to do with his family - Petunia continued to be awful, his brother was useless, and he couldn't even stand up to his father when the time came (hey Henry, maybe remind him that without the money you bring in through working the family would be destitute). Poppy's father was dismissive of her once things started to go downhill and couldn't even get his wife to stop her constant insults thrown Poppy's way. I actually found myself on more than one occasion wishing Poppy would just call of the wedding - and when it does get called off I thought it might be for the best. I always thought Tom was a better match for her - he actually respected and supported her. And with all those issues with the characters the fact that the actual mystery didn't get started until about 2/3 through the book made this a tough one to get through. The mystery actually ended up saving this book for me because it got things moving - I liked how some of the little mysteries all ended up being the actions of others not the murderer. And there's a nice little twist toward the end that was a nice surprise. The villain wasn't a complete surprise, but the lengths they were willing to go was. I wish this wasn't the end of the series because I would have loved one more story with Poppy and Henry as a married couple solving crimes together - partly just to be sure that he is a better husband than he was a fiancé.
I will start by saying that Poppy is one of my favorite characters of all time. I love how she doesn't back down even when no one seems to be on her side and that she always follows her instincts. I continued to love her throughout this book, but, with the exception of Aunt Rachel, I found I could not stand any of the other women. Petunia was being her usually snotty self, Lady Blackwood is awful, and I wanted nothing more than for Miss Penwrith to just go away (which was the point). I didn't understand why Petunia was pushing Henry toward breaking things off with Poppy in favor of Miss Penwrith (because with all her concerns about Henry's marriage bringing money why would she want a penniless wife for him?) until I realized she didn't really want her as a sister-in-law either, she just needed something to get between Poppy and Henry. Susan had some good moments, but she still didn't treat Poppy all that well. As for the men, with the exception of Tom, I was ready for all of them to just go away as well. Henry is particularly spineless - I entered this book still upset with the way he handled things in the previous book and he did very little to change my opinion of him. He clearly had no control over anything to do with his family - Petunia continued to be awful, his brother was useless, and he couldn't even stand up to his father when the time came (hey Henry, maybe remind him that without the money you bring in through working the family would be destitute). Poppy's father was dismissive of her once things started to go downhill and couldn't even get his wife to stop her constant insults thrown Poppy's way. I actually found myself on more than one occasion wishing Poppy would just call of the wedding - and when it does get called off I thought it might be for the best. I always thought Tom was a better match for her - he actually respected and supported her. And with all those issues with the characters the fact that the actual mystery didn't get started until about 2/3 through the book made this a tough one to get through. The mystery actually ended up saving this book for me because it got things moving - I liked how some of the little mysteries all ended up being the actions of others not the murderer. And there's a nice little twist toward the end that was a nice surprise. The villain wasn't a complete surprise, but the lengths they were willing to go was. I wish this wasn't the end of the series because I would have loved one more story with Poppy and Henry as a married couple solving crimes together - partly just to be sure that he is a better husband than he was a fiancé.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2024
The Betrayed Bride by E L Johnson is a delightfully entertaining farce/mystery. Poppy and Henry are to be married. They have yet to get permission from his father, Henry figuring that it will be easier to obtain once they have met and the old lord sees how delightful Poppy is. Sadly, Poppy is the illegitimate offspring of a member of the ton and his mistress. At dinner the first evening, there is a knock on the door and a Miss Honoria Penrith arrives, announcing herself as Henry’s fiancee. Needless to say to say this was met with skepticism, let alone the fiasco that ensued. She’s dead, she’s not dead. She’s poisoned, she’s not poisoned. Her wedding dress was there, then it wasn’t. None of them can leave as the roads have been washed out so they are all stuck there, most observers of the madness.
An entertaining Keystone Kops kind of book where one never really knew what was going on. The only certainty was that Poppy and Henry were innocent and should be married. The likelihood of any of this taking place was next to zero, but we really don’t count on these kind of books for historical accuracy. It was entertaining, but went on maybe a touch too long. It was humorous, but not laugh-out-loud funny. Certainly a break in my day! Thanks Ms. Johnson for that!
I was invited to read The Betrayed Bride by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #ELJohnson #TheBetrayedBride
An entertaining Keystone Kops kind of book where one never really knew what was going on. The only certainty was that Poppy and Henry were innocent and should be married. The likelihood of any of this taking place was next to zero, but we really don’t count on these kind of books for historical accuracy. It was entertaining, but went on maybe a touch too long. It was humorous, but not laugh-out-loud funny. Certainly a break in my day! Thanks Ms. Johnson for that!
I was invited to read The Betrayed Bride by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #ELJohnson #TheBetrayedBride
April 25, 2024
...I have to admit, I wasn't prepared for this final volume to be a farce. It's not something I tend to read at the drop of a hat as I don't always care for that style. As it is, a large part of the start of this volume really didn't work for me. Stylistically, I found the writing was much more on the 'tell' side than 'show', and as a reader, I didn't buy in to what I was being told.
I found that certain characters actions didn't make sense. Not wanting Henry to marry Poppy is one thing, pushing a penniless family friend they'd lost track of for so long and knew nothing of her intervening years made no sense. Likewise, the total inattention to handwriting really annoyed me. Dyngley doesn't know what Poppy's handwriting looks like and vice versa? I have to admit, I haven't paid that much attention to the earlier volumes, but I find it difficult to believe that the two never corresponded at all.
Personally, I would have rated the earlier part of this book 2/5, but the mystery later on and the writing in the latter part of the book was strong bumping up the overall rating. While this volume didn't work for me (a shame since it's the final volume to the series), overall, I did enjoy this series and look forward to seeing what this author writes next.
I found that certain characters actions didn't make sense. Not wanting Henry to marry Poppy is one thing, pushing a penniless family friend they'd lost track of for so long and knew nothing of her intervening years made no sense. Likewise, the total inattention to handwriting really annoyed me. Dyngley doesn't know what Poppy's handwriting looks like and vice versa? I have to admit, I haven't paid that much attention to the earlier volumes, but I find it difficult to believe that the two never corresponded at all.
Personally, I would have rated the earlier part of this book 2/5, but the mystery later on and the writing in the latter part of the book was strong bumping up the overall rating. While this volume didn't work for me (a shame since it's the final volume to the series), overall, I did enjoy this series and look forward to seeing what this author writes next.
April 12, 2024
This historical romance is part of the Perfect Poison Murders series. I recall reading a previous book from the series, The Mistress Murders, which I enjoyed. I haven't read them all, but this is the fifth book in the series.
I was pleased to be reading about both Poppy and Henry again, because I really liked them both the first time around. Poppy is a strong female protagonist, and I really liked Henry as a love interest, although I did begin to question his behaviour at some point while reading this. There were a couple of characters that I really disliked, but I believe they were written for readers to dislike them, and I was hoping to see these characters get what I felt they deserved.
Aside from the romantic element, this was a good murder mystery, with some plot twists that I didn't see coming. I enjoy the author's style of writing, because I feel it captures the story well, without being too clever or overly elaborate. If you like historical mysteries or romance, maybe consider giving this series a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
I was pleased to be reading about both Poppy and Henry again, because I really liked them both the first time around. Poppy is a strong female protagonist, and I really liked Henry as a love interest, although I did begin to question his behaviour at some point while reading this. There were a couple of characters that I really disliked, but I believe they were written for readers to dislike them, and I was hoping to see these characters get what I felt they deserved.
Aside from the romantic element, this was a good murder mystery, with some plot twists that I didn't see coming. I enjoy the author's style of writing, because I feel it captures the story well, without being too clever or overly elaborate. If you like historical mysteries or romance, maybe consider giving this series a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
May 3, 2024
2 1/2 stars This book received a glowing recommendation from someone in a Facebook group. It felt so like a caricature to me that I wondered if I should abandon it. Perhaps readers who have read previous books in the series might enjoy it more. I read it as a stand alone. The H is a sergeant and needs to marry someone with money to infuse into the crumbling estate that his family won in a card game. The h is the illegitimate daughter of a lord and his mistress. A woman comes to visit claiming to have been promised to the H since they were children. The woman is horrible to the h and the H doesn't seem to have the strength of will to stand up to his father to defend the h. The final portion of the book describes a series of mishaps, poisoning, a head bashed with a poker, a shredded wedding dress and which of the house guests was responsible for each one. I didn't like the characters and didn't feel any tension in the events. Somehow a character shows up toward the end despite roads having been washed out. No explanation.
May 20, 2024
This is the fifth and last installment of The Perfect Poison Murders. Poppy and Henry are engaged to be married. Although Poppy's illegitimate lineage is not up to aristocratic standards, Henry and his brother do their best to keep this information from their father. Until, on a stormy night, a love from Henry's past comes back into his life and ruins everything claiming to be engaged to Henry herself and Poppy's secret is also exposed. Then various incidents start occurring and a murder takes place, casting everyone into suspicion. Poppy and Henry work together to solve the mystery. There are some twists and turns before all was revealed and the story and series come to a satisfying conclusion as the murder mystery plays out and the plot is explored.
The book started out a bit slow but not too long after picked up pace and I became immersed in the mystery. This was an entertaining and engaging read and great addition to the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
The book started out a bit slow but not too long after picked up pace and I became immersed in the mystery. This was an entertaining and engaging read and great addition to the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.
September 2, 2025
This last book in this series was an absolute roller-coaster ride. The plot and subplots moved together in a synchronized medley of one wild event after another. I was exhausted by the end of the novel.
Henry and Poppy Morton are engaged (finally). However, Miss Penwrith arrives, telling everyone that she and Henry are engaged to be married. As a severe storm begins, Poppy's birth as the illegitimate daughter of an aristocrat and his mistress is divulged. Now, there is no chance of a marriage between the couple.
Terrible things begin to happen, including Sir Dyngley being attacked, Miss Penwrith's wedding dress being destroyed, and Poppy's wedding dress disappearing. Then, Miss Penwrith dies. When baby Arthur goes missing, the family members become alarmed. This is a wild story that comes to a resounding end. I loved it.
I reduced the score due to a significant grammatical error when discussing one of the ghosts. The author says the young woman was knocked up -- a very modern phrase. There were a few other modern phrases used in this Regency-era novel. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
**The Betrayed Bride
Henry and Poppy Morton are engaged (finally). However, Miss Penwrith arrives, telling everyone that she and Henry are engaged to be married. As a severe storm begins, Poppy's birth as the illegitimate daughter of an aristocrat and his mistress is divulged. Now, there is no chance of a marriage between the couple.
Terrible things begin to happen, including Sir Dyngley being attacked, Miss Penwrith's wedding dress being destroyed, and Poppy's wedding dress disappearing. Then, Miss Penwrith dies. When baby Arthur goes missing, the family members become alarmed. This is a wild story that comes to a resounding end. I loved it.
I reduced the score due to a significant grammatical error when discussing one of the ghosts. The author says the young woman was knocked up -- a very modern phrase. There were a few other modern phrases used in this Regency-era novel. Overall score = 4.5 stars.
The Perfect Poison Murders
The Strangled Servant
The Poisoned Clergyman
The Mistress Murders
The Deadly Debutante
**The Betrayed Bride
February 18, 2024
Fifth book in a series of romance mysteries. This one is full of twists and turns leaving the reader in a spin until the very end. I love mysteries so this one grabbed my interest immediately and held it till the last minute. Broken engagements, murder, deceit, lies, betrayal! Oh my, what more could you ask for! I will have to go back and read this authors other books in the series as this creative author is new to me.
April 8, 2025
Enjoyable
I have really enjoyed Poppy and Henry stories's for the characters and the mysteries. Although I must admit to occasionally wanting to shake a few characters, perhaps that is what made me like this series so much. I highly recommend them.
I have really enjoyed Poppy and Henry stories's for the characters and the mysteries. Although I must admit to occasionally wanting to shake a few characters, perhaps that is what made me like this series so much. I highly recommend them.
February 24, 2024
Review to follow
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