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Kurland St. Mary Mystery #2
Death Comes to London
A season in London promises a welcome change of pace for two friends from the village of Kurland St. Mary until murder makes a debut. With the reluctant blessings of their father, the rector of Kurland St. Mary, Lucy Harrington and her sister Anna leave home for a social season in London. At the same time, Lucy's special friend Major Robert Kurland is summoned to the city to accept a baronetcy for his wartime heroism.
Amidst the dizzying whirl of balls and formal dinners, the focus shifts from mixing and matchmaking to murder when the dowager Countess of Broughton, the mother of an old army friend of Robert, drops dead. When it's revealed she's been poisoned, Robert's former betrothed, Miss Chingford, is accused, and she in turn points a finger at Anna. To protect her sister, Lucy enlists Robert's aid in drawing out the true culprit.
But with suspects ranging from resentful rivals and embittered family members to the toast of the ton, it will take all their sleuthing skills to unmask the poisoner before more trouble is stirred up
Amidst the dizzying whirl of balls and formal dinners, the focus shifts from mixing and matchmaking to murder when the dowager Countess of Broughton, the mother of an old army friend of Robert, drops dead. When it's revealed she's been poisoned, Robert's former betrothed, Miss Chingford, is accused, and she in turn points a finger at Anna. To protect her sister, Lucy enlists Robert's aid in drawing out the true culprit.
But with suspects ranging from resentful rivals and embittered family members to the toast of the ton, it will take all their sleuthing skills to unmask the poisoner before more trouble is stirred up
259 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2014
147 people are currently reading
1143 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Lloyd
20 books522 followersCatherine Lloyd was born just outside London, England, into a large family of dreamers, artists, and history lovers. She completed her education with a master’s degree in history at the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, and uses the skills she gained there to research and write her historical mysteries. Catherine currently lives in Hawaii with her husband and youngest daughter..
Please note only the Kurland St. Mary mysteries are written by this Catherine Lloyd, not the romances.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Please note only the Kurland St. Mary mysteries are written by this Catherine Lloyd, not the romances.
Librarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews
July 25, 2022
Cozy mystery is not quite the right category for this series as it deals with issues not normally seen in historical mysteries. I found the book to be an easy read. The author adds some twists to the plots that make the books enjoyable. Very light on the romance. 3.5*
March 9, 2021
Good mystery with excellent characters. Thoroughly enjoyable!
February 10, 2015
Almost never do I like the second book of a series better than the first, but Death Comes to London is a rare exception. A more intriguing mystery (better plotted, too), more romance and a better-developed cast of characters made Lucy and Major Kurland's second adventure a really delightful read.
The mystery involves a much-hated tyrant of a dowager countess who drops dead during a ball at Almack's, a crime that turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of suspects and a number of seemingly-unrelated plot points that only serve to make the mystery more complex - just how I like it! There are enough twists and turns that it shouldn't be immediately easy to pick out the culprit.
A change of setting definitely introduced some fresh spark; determined to have her first season in London with the hopes of finding a husband who will free her from her father's rule, Lucy Harrington leaves the placid village of Kurland St. Mary for the drawing rooms and balls of London. Major Kurland finds himself called to London as well, of course, and is none too pleased to find himself back amongst genteel society. I loved the wit, banter and subtle social dances of the London scene - the rude dowagers and delicate games of courtship bring back the very best memories of Pride and Prejudice.
More importantly, the shift from Kurland St. Mary to a London setting transforms Lucy from her exasperating role of "mother of the house" and virtual slave to her father's demands in the first book to an eligible lady who has a life of her own. I liked her much better for her increase in self-respect in this book. It also put her on a much more equal footing with Major Kurland; they're no longer grouchy invalid and caretaker but dashing soldier and an earl's niece. They continue to argue frequently - like "cat and dog," to quote the Major - but the antagonism is gradually replaced by respect, admiration and a budding friendship.
It makes the slowly-growing romantic thread equally enjoyable and frustrating, since everyone but Lucy and Major Kurland have noticed what a good match they would make. This point is also my only major gripe with this book; Worse, it annoys me when the progress I'd been waiting for finally begins in earnest, only for the author to .
I must confess myself hooked, though; can't wait for book 3 to see how Lucy and Major Kurland will overcome the curveball thrown at them.
The mystery involves a much-hated tyrant of a dowager countess who drops dead during a ball at Almack's, a crime that turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. There are plenty of suspects and a number of seemingly-unrelated plot points that only serve to make the mystery more complex - just how I like it! There are enough twists and turns that it shouldn't be immediately easy to pick out the culprit.
A change of setting definitely introduced some fresh spark; determined to have her first season in London with the hopes of finding a husband who will free her from her father's rule, Lucy Harrington leaves the placid village of Kurland St. Mary for the drawing rooms and balls of London. Major Kurland finds himself called to London as well, of course, and is none too pleased to find himself back amongst genteel society. I loved the wit, banter and subtle social dances of the London scene - the rude dowagers and delicate games of courtship bring back the very best memories of Pride and Prejudice.
More importantly, the shift from Kurland St. Mary to a London setting transforms Lucy from her exasperating role of "mother of the house" and virtual slave to her father's demands in the first book to an eligible lady who has a life of her own. I liked her much better for her increase in self-respect in this book. It also put her on a much more equal footing with Major Kurland; they're no longer grouchy invalid and caretaker but dashing soldier and an earl's niece. They continue to argue frequently - like "cat and dog," to quote the Major - but the antagonism is gradually replaced by respect, admiration and a budding friendship.
It makes the slowly-growing romantic thread equally enjoyable and frustrating, since everyone but Lucy and Major Kurland have noticed what a good match they would make. This point is also my only major gripe with this book; Worse, it annoys me when the progress I'd been waiting for finally begins in earnest, only for the author to .
I must confess myself hooked, though; can't wait for book 3 to see how Lucy and Major Kurland will overcome the curveball thrown at them.
February 5, 2016
Death Comes to London
4 Stars
Lucy Harrington and her sister Anna travel to London for the Season and become involved in a murder investigation when the Dowager Countess of Broughton drops dead during a ball. With the aid of Major Robert Kurland, who is in the capital to accept a Baronetcy for his heroic actions on the battlefield, Lucy slowly exposes a dangerous web of family secrets, theft and poison.
Once again, Lloyd has created wonderful characters and the romance is developing nicely. However, the mystery isn’t as intense as it could have been.
Major Kurland is rather obtuse at times when it comes to his feelings for Lucy, but he is slowly coming to realize that she isn’t only the girl next door, but a lovely woman in her own right. Lucy, in contrast, is still in denial about her relationship with Robert although she does appear to be waking up toward the end.
The secondary characters are just as compelling even though there are times when they fail to behave in accordance with the social norms of the Regency period, which can be jarring.
As said, the mystery is the weakest element. Despite the large suspect pool, the villain is rather obvious, mainly due to their distasteful behavior, and it is more a matter of figuring out the motive. There are also a couple of twists that don’t really make sense in the larger picture, i.e.,
In sum, an enjoyable sequel and I look forward to reading book #3 and hope that Lloyd is working on more.
4 Stars
Lucy Harrington and her sister Anna travel to London for the Season and become involved in a murder investigation when the Dowager Countess of Broughton drops dead during a ball. With the aid of Major Robert Kurland, who is in the capital to accept a Baronetcy for his heroic actions on the battlefield, Lucy slowly exposes a dangerous web of family secrets, theft and poison.
Once again, Lloyd has created wonderful characters and the romance is developing nicely. However, the mystery isn’t as intense as it could have been.
Major Kurland is rather obtuse at times when it comes to his feelings for Lucy, but he is slowly coming to realize that she isn’t only the girl next door, but a lovely woman in her own right. Lucy, in contrast, is still in denial about her relationship with Robert although she does appear to be waking up toward the end.
The secondary characters are just as compelling even though there are times when they fail to behave in accordance with the social norms of the Regency period, which can be jarring.
As said, the mystery is the weakest element. Despite the large suspect pool, the villain is rather obvious, mainly due to their distasteful behavior, and it is more a matter of figuring out the motive. There are also a couple of twists that don’t really make sense in the larger picture, i.e.,
In sum, an enjoyable sequel and I look forward to reading book #3 and hope that Lloyd is working on more.
December 10, 2014
An excellent cozy historical mystery that takes place during the Regency period. Really well fleshed out characters that aren't idealised versions of any kind. The mystery was incredibly well constructed too - just too many variables!
Full review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/106142...
Full review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/106142...
October 29, 2016
The story wasn't bad, but the writing was dreadful. I remember the first book in this series as being nothing special, but it certainly wasn't as poorly written as this one.
Abandoned ship after 50 pages. An hour of my life completely wasted!
Abandoned ship after 50 pages. An hour of my life completely wasted!
August 24, 2020
A perfect combination for me: Regency period + mystery! Since I absolutely don't have a set bedtime, I stayed up until I finished it. Really enjoyed it and already have the third one lined up.
April 7, 2023
I enjoyed the first Kurland St. Mary book so much and this second book, Death Comes to London, is another delight. This time the plot is set in London as Lucy and her sister Anna travel to London for their social season. At the same time Major Robert Kurland travels to London to receive a baronetcy for his service in the war.
What a whirlwind it was of dinners, couture, and balls of courtship and matchmaking in the regency era. However, murder is the backdrop of these festivities when the Countess of Broughton is apparently poisoned. Old resentments and rivalries The main suspect, a former beau of Robert’s, turns around and points the finger at Anna. This gets Lucy involved to scry the real murderer to her sister; she enlists the help of Robert to investigate and find the real murderer.
I’m loving Lucy and Robert as the main characters/ protagonists. Lucy is wonderful, intuitive young woman; the careful dance around each other is somewhat frustrating but I love their natural connection.
I love this series and bought the entire series to savor.
Regency mystery
What a whirlwind it was of dinners, couture, and balls of courtship and matchmaking in the regency era. However, murder is the backdrop of these festivities when the Countess of Broughton is apparently poisoned. Old resentments and rivalries The main suspect, a former beau of Robert’s, turns around and points the finger at Anna. This gets Lucy involved to scry the real murderer to her sister; she enlists the help of Robert to investigate and find the real murderer.
I’m loving Lucy and Robert as the main characters/ protagonists. Lucy is wonderful, intuitive young woman; the careful dance around each other is somewhat frustrating but I love their natural connection.
I love this series and bought the entire series to savor.
Regency mystery
January 12, 2015
It was a quick read, but not quite as good as the first. The mystery isn't as compelling as is the look at a Season in London, and I couldn't quite buy the really horrendous behavior of Miss Chingford (who was petty and shallow in the first book, but mindful of how she came across to others). In this one, her behavior is over-the-top, seemingly to increase the likelihood that she'd be considered a suspect. The identity of the killer seems also to be rather obvious, even though Lloyd goes to pains to deliver a wider pool of suspects.
Major Kurland, who is actually appealing in Death Comes to London, is much more curmudgeonly and obtuse in this novel. Not only does he not look close around him for suspects , he has virtually no social skills when it comes to women. He doesn't realize that spending so much time alone with Miss Harrington is giving off marriage vibes, and he's increasingly demanding of her, while belittling her at the same time. There were a few scenes of concern and care, but overall, he is often rude and obnoxious. I realize that Lloyd is moving the two into a relationship slowly, but at this point, Kurland's thickheaded, dictatorial attitude will have to undergo a major change.
Major Kurland, who is actually appealing in Death Comes to London, is much more curmudgeonly and obtuse in this novel. Not only does he not look close around him for suspects , he has virtually no social skills when it comes to women. He doesn't realize that spending so much time alone with Miss Harrington is giving off marriage vibes, and he's increasingly demanding of her, while belittling her at the same time. There were a few scenes of concern and care, but overall, he is often rude and obnoxious. I realize that Lloyd is moving the two into a relationship slowly, but at this point, Kurland's thickheaded, dictatorial attitude will have to undergo a major change.
September 27, 2021
These are very cute, fast reads. I had hoped that the main character, Lucy, would finally get a break from taking care of everyone in this one. Alas, having a "London season" doesn't mean that for the person who seems to put her needs last. Of course, she solves the murder with the help of her friends (and sees something pretty traumatic along the way) and still winds up going home sad and lonely. Poor Lucy.
This story touches on a few serious themes (mental illness, PTSD, suicide, and hate towards gay men, along with murder), but doesn't really dive in deeply to them. I don't think many people see "cozy" mysteries as needing content warnings, but I think some people could be surprised by this one.
This story touches on a few serious themes (mental illness, PTSD, suicide, and hate towards gay men, along with murder), but doesn't really dive in deeply to them. I don't think many people see "cozy" mysteries as needing content warnings, but I think some people could be surprised by this one.
October 7, 2015
I received a copy of Death Comes to London from a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is the second in the Kurland St Mary mystery series by Catherine Lloyd However unlike in the first installment, we join the main characters in London, not Kurland St Mary. Main character Lucy Harrington leaves her hometown after helping to run the household of an injured war hero named Major Kurland. The young woman accompanies her sister Anna to town to partake in the social season, in hopes of finding husbands. Not long after her departure, Major Kurland learns that he is to receive a baronetcy from the prince regent, so he too makes his way to London. While there a dowager countess (the grandmother of the Major’s friend Broughton) un-expectantly drops dead at a social ball. It is determined that she had been poisoned and Kurland and Lucy take on the task of uncovering the mystery.
Much to my surprise I quite enjoyed Death Comes to London! Aside from the fact that I’m not particular on this time period, it didn’t feel as stuffy as I had thought it would. Thankfully there was more to this story than just the proper societal etiquette of the ton. The mystery “who-done-it” storyline kept me interested throughout, even after I had figured it out for myself. Lucy came across as quite meddlesome, which was slightly annoying at times. However this is how the character is supposed to be portrayed. I enjoyed reading more from Major Kurland’s perspective than Lucy’s. Although there were parts that referred to the mystery in the first novel, I would say that Death Comes to London could be a stand-alone.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries with a historical setting.
For my full review of Death Comes to London please check out my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/2015/...
This novel is the second in the Kurland St Mary mystery series by Catherine Lloyd However unlike in the first installment, we join the main characters in London, not Kurland St Mary. Main character Lucy Harrington leaves her hometown after helping to run the household of an injured war hero named Major Kurland. The young woman accompanies her sister Anna to town to partake in the social season, in hopes of finding husbands. Not long after her departure, Major Kurland learns that he is to receive a baronetcy from the prince regent, so he too makes his way to London. While there a dowager countess (the grandmother of the Major’s friend Broughton) un-expectantly drops dead at a social ball. It is determined that she had been poisoned and Kurland and Lucy take on the task of uncovering the mystery.
Much to my surprise I quite enjoyed Death Comes to London! Aside from the fact that I’m not particular on this time period, it didn’t feel as stuffy as I had thought it would. Thankfully there was more to this story than just the proper societal etiquette of the ton. The mystery “who-done-it” storyline kept me interested throughout, even after I had figured it out for myself. Lucy came across as quite meddlesome, which was slightly annoying at times. However this is how the character is supposed to be portrayed. I enjoyed reading more from Major Kurland’s perspective than Lucy’s. Although there were parts that referred to the mystery in the first novel, I would say that Death Comes to London could be a stand-alone.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries with a historical setting.
For my full review of Death Comes to London please check out my blog:
http://mlsmanyreads.blogspot.ca/2015/...
December 29, 2014
3.5 stars
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for a review.
I found this to be a delightful cozy English mystery story set in the Regency Period. Lucy Harrington and her sister, Anna, leave the charming village of St. Mary to participate in the "Season" in London. They need to find husbands and the village is too small. Lucy has been working as a nurse and the right hand of Major Robert Kurland, a war hero recovering from severe injuries.
Major Kurland finds he must go to London, too, as the Prince Regent hears about his battle exploits and wants to make him a baronet. Kurland is quite upset because he doesn't think he deserves it but who can say no to the Prince?
Kurland runs into Lucy and a member of his old regiment in London. They start attending Season events and people start dying. There is a poisoning, a boat accident and someone leaps off a ledge. Kurland and Lucy must race against time to solve the murders before someone else dies.
It's really a fun read and a series I'd like to read more. If you like a good cozy English mystery, try this one.
I received this book from Net Galley in exchange for a review.
I found this to be a delightful cozy English mystery story set in the Regency Period. Lucy Harrington and her sister, Anna, leave the charming village of St. Mary to participate in the "Season" in London. They need to find husbands and the village is too small. Lucy has been working as a nurse and the right hand of Major Robert Kurland, a war hero recovering from severe injuries.
Major Kurland finds he must go to London, too, as the Prince Regent hears about his battle exploits and wants to make him a baronet. Kurland is quite upset because he doesn't think he deserves it but who can say no to the Prince?
Kurland runs into Lucy and a member of his old regiment in London. They start attending Season events and people start dying. There is a poisoning, a boat accident and someone leaps off a ledge. Kurland and Lucy must race against time to solve the murders before someone else dies.
It's really a fun read and a series I'd like to read more. If you like a good cozy English mystery, try this one.
October 27, 2017
4.5 stars, because I continue to enjoy the heck out of these, and the annoying father isn't in this one. Also, the mystery is less immediately predictable in this, SO. (Also, I read the first one yesterday, and already have the third out from the library.)
I just, I really like them. And I'm enjoying reading them a lot. I really like how Lucy and Major Kurland, respect, like, and trust each other, but also constantly misunderstand and/or insult each other (slightly generally only slightly, though he's worse at it than her), and are similarly self-aware.
Although, can we talk about this line in the description of the book: "At the same time, Lucy's special friend Major Robert Kurland is summoned to the city to accept a baronetcy for his wartime heroism."
Lucy's special friend??? That makes him sound like he's, I dunno, imaginary, or any number of vaguely euphemistic things (many of which would have been scandalous for an unmarried woman, had they been true), none of which are anywhere near the truth: that they've grown up in the same quite small village, known each other essentially all their lives, have a fairly high degree of mutual respect, and similar minds. Seriously: close, particular, unexpected... any of those adjectives would have worked. Special just makes me laugh.
And now I may start the third one.
I just, I really like them. And I'm enjoying reading them a lot. I really like how Lucy and Major Kurland, respect, like, and trust each other, but also constantly misunderstand and/or insult each other (slightly generally only slightly, though he's worse at it than her), and are similarly self-aware.
Although, can we talk about this line in the description of the book: "At the same time, Lucy's special friend Major Robert Kurland is summoned to the city to accept a baronetcy for his wartime heroism."
Lucy's special friend??? That makes him sound like he's, I dunno, imaginary, or any number of vaguely euphemistic things (many of which would have been scandalous for an unmarried woman, had they been true), none of which are anywhere near the truth: that they've grown up in the same quite small village, known each other essentially all their lives, have a fairly high degree of mutual respect, and similar minds. Seriously: close, particular, unexpected... any of those adjectives would have worked. Special just makes me laugh.
And now I may start the third one.
January 30, 2020
This was an engaging cozy mystery with well developed characters that are realistic for the setting. The mystery had quite a few twists that kept me turning the pages. I have next one in the series on hold at my library.
June 1, 2021
Major Robert Kurland goes to London where he will receive a noble title for his war valor. Lucy and Anna Harrington, daughters of Kurland St. Mary's rector, travel to London for the season, hoping to find a husband. Robert runs into an old army acquaintance. When the acquaintance's relative, the Dowager Countess of Broughton, dies under suspicious circumstances, the amateur sleuths (Robert and Lucy) use the developing scientific field of poison identification to determine how she met her death and who might be responsible. I found the book enjoyable although the mystery takes a back seat to some of the other less enjoyable plot elements, such as the pursuit of marriage.
September 27, 2023
I am completely in love with this series. Set in the Regency time period, the mystery and romance are precisely to my liking. The romance in particular moves so slowly and naturally and I scarcely think I've enjoyed a romance this much outside of a Jane Austin novel. I purposely read it very slowly because I enjoyed the characters so much I didn't want to leave. Luckily, there are many more books in this series. High recommend!
January 28, 2019
Second in the series. Lucy and Anna go to London to make their bow to Society. Major Kurland goes to London to receive honors from the Prince Regent. Lucy and the major solve an odd series of poisonings. It has nice but not excessive discussions of Society and I liked the characters. The author was good at the milieu and the mystery was quite clever.
February 19, 2015
Lucy Harrington is finally getting her chance to leave Kurland St. Mary and have a season in London. While her younger sister Anna stays with their uncle, the Earl, and is brought out by the Countess, Lucy will stay with her widowed friend Sophia and her mother. While Anna can make a splendid match, Lucy feels she is too old and plain to aim too high and will look more modestly for someone to suit her. Major Robert Kurland feels deserted by Lucy and overwhelmed with new responsibilities. When the Prince Regent summons Robert to London to honor him with a baronetcy, Robert's first wish is to refuse. His second is to throttle Lucy for bringing him to the Prince's attention. Off to London he goes, where he reunites with his old army friend Lieutenant Broughton. Broughton is selling out and turning to scientific pursuits as well as being on the hunt for a bride. His first choice is Penelope Chingford, Robert's ex-fiance! When Broughton sees Anna, Penelope is forgotten, causing an intense argument within the Broughton family. To make matters worse. Broughton's grandmother, the Dowager Countess, is engaged in a public feud with a former rival. When the Dowager Countess drops dead at Almack's no one is stunned. It's assumed the old lady died of a heart attack, but Robert isn't so sure. He believes she was murdered and engages Lucy's help to solve the mystery. The deeper they dig, the more secrets come out and when more people end up dead, it will take a combined effort of intelligence and modern science to solve the murder.
I enjoyed this story much more than the first one. The glittering world of the ton as told by Georgette Heyer is one of my favorite subjects to read about. Though the story is darker than a Heyer plot, the familiar characters are there in the background. The descriptive details were just enough to set the scene but not too many as to overpower the mystery. The murder happens within the first few chapters and the story keeps going from there. I wasn't quite as enthralled by the mystery as I was in the first book. I figured out about halfway through who the murderer was. They tipped their hand quickly and then made it glaringly obvious later. I don't know why Lucy didn't pick up on the clues earlier. Robert was blinded by friendship and red herrings. There were some secrets that surprised me. The subject matter wasn't that dark but all the deaths were a bit much. There's a bit too much about "modern" science vs. herbal lore and scientific study. Like Anna, I'm an animal lover and two scenes really disturbed me. The method of murder was a bit overkill. That plot is used too often (especially by Julian Fellows). Kudos to the author for actually doing research and understanding the method and how to prove it in 1817. The ending was so predictable that at least one or more of the characters should have known what would happen. It happens in every period mystery. The plot with Penelope Chingford just dies never to be brought up again. That needed some resolution. The relationship between Lucy and Robert really develops nicely. We get to see a softer side of him at times and a tender moment at the end is nice but then it ends.
The characters really make this novel. Lucy is a no-nonsense woman and she's very much a woman of her time and place. She claims she's managing but that just means she doesn't have airs or nerves or any of the silly womanly attributes women were supposed to have. She can take charge in a crisis. She's kind and caring and knows how to deal with people. Her dialogue with Robert is great. He's still crusty on the outside and clueless about women but Lucy forces him to rethink his opinions and accept that her silly ideas need to be considered. His respect for her grows and he comes to consider her a true friend. He has a long way to go before they end up happily ever after though. That was frustrating to read.
The secondary characters are not as well developed but certainly interesting. The Broughtns were all complex characters. The Dowager Countess was so nasty but yet I felt sorry for her. I hated Lord Broughton. He was arrogant and condescending and too caught up in his goal. Oliver was the most complex of them all. Most of what we know about him comes from another source so we do not know if it's true or not. I wish that had been explored a bit more. Dr. Redmond serves an interesting role in the story and I liked learning a bit about the history of modern medicine through him but he wasn't an entirely likable character. Lady Bentley was funny at first and then got on my nerves and then I felt very sorry for her. This author really knows how to create multidimensional characters. The weak links were Sophia and Anna. Sophia is kept largely in the background and I felt like I never got to know her at all. Her story was predictable and I wish she had been more of a major player throughout the story. Anna is a sweet girl and I liked getting to know her better. She has a plot thread that gets dropped too quickly.
Fans of cozy mysteries, especially Stephanie Barron, Kate Ross and Deanna Raybourn will like this series.
Content warning:
Some violence
mentions of Homosexuality
mention of animal cruelty
I enjoyed this story much more than the first one. The glittering world of the ton as told by Georgette Heyer is one of my favorite subjects to read about. Though the story is darker than a Heyer plot, the familiar characters are there in the background. The descriptive details were just enough to set the scene but not too many as to overpower the mystery. The murder happens within the first few chapters and the story keeps going from there. I wasn't quite as enthralled by the mystery as I was in the first book. I figured out about halfway through who the murderer was. They tipped their hand quickly and then made it glaringly obvious later. I don't know why Lucy didn't pick up on the clues earlier. Robert was blinded by friendship and red herrings. There were some secrets that surprised me. The subject matter wasn't that dark but all the deaths were a bit much. There's a bit too much about "modern" science vs. herbal lore and scientific study. Like Anna, I'm an animal lover and two scenes really disturbed me. The method of murder was a bit overkill. That plot is used too often (especially by Julian Fellows). Kudos to the author for actually doing research and understanding the method and how to prove it in 1817. The ending was so predictable that at least one or more of the characters should have known what would happen. It happens in every period mystery. The plot with Penelope Chingford just dies never to be brought up again. That needed some resolution. The relationship between Lucy and Robert really develops nicely. We get to see a softer side of him at times and a tender moment at the end is nice but then it ends.
The characters really make this novel. Lucy is a no-nonsense woman and she's very much a woman of her time and place. She claims she's managing but that just means she doesn't have airs or nerves or any of the silly womanly attributes women were supposed to have. She can take charge in a crisis. She's kind and caring and knows how to deal with people. Her dialogue with Robert is great. He's still crusty on the outside and clueless about women but Lucy forces him to rethink his opinions and accept that her silly ideas need to be considered. His respect for her grows and he comes to consider her a true friend. He has a long way to go before they end up happily ever after though. That was frustrating to read.
The secondary characters are not as well developed but certainly interesting. The Broughtns were all complex characters. The Dowager Countess was so nasty but yet I felt sorry for her. I hated Lord Broughton. He was arrogant and condescending and too caught up in his goal. Oliver was the most complex of them all. Most of what we know about him comes from another source so we do not know if it's true or not. I wish that had been explored a bit more. Dr. Redmond serves an interesting role in the story and I liked learning a bit about the history of modern medicine through him but he wasn't an entirely likable character. Lady Bentley was funny at first and then got on my nerves and then I felt very sorry for her. This author really knows how to create multidimensional characters. The weak links were Sophia and Anna. Sophia is kept largely in the background and I felt like I never got to know her at all. Her story was predictable and I wish she had been more of a major player throughout the story. Anna is a sweet girl and I liked getting to know her better. She has a plot thread that gets dropped too quickly.
Fans of cozy mysteries, especially Stephanie Barron, Kate Ross and Deanna Raybourn will like this series.
Content warning:
Some violence
mentions of Homosexuality
mention of animal cruelty
December 3, 2019
3.5 STARS
I liked this installment more than the first. The series is definitely character driven, and the mystery aspect is secondary. I adored the banter between Robert and Lucy. Overall, a light easy read.
I liked this installment more than the first. The series is definitely character driven, and the mystery aspect is secondary. I adored the banter between Robert and Lucy. Overall, a light easy read.
November 29, 2014
Death Comes to London is the follow up to Death Comes to the Village, featuring the detective skills of amateur sleuths Major Robert Kurland and Miss Lucy Harrington. In this second installment Lucy has been able to make her way to London for the season that she’s always wanted. She hopes to find a husband and finally gain independence from her family. Unfortunately, murder trumps husband hunting. Such is life.
The Major also finds himself in London, albeit reluctantly, after being summoned by the Prince Regent to be given a baronetcy. Kurland is none to happy that it is Miss Harrington who is responsible for bringing him to the attention of the Prince, and he’s ready to give her a piece of his mind, until murder forces him to consider more important matters.
When the dowager Countess of Broughton drops dead at a ball, Kurland and Miss Harrington suspect murder, and the more questions they ask the more they are convinced that a family member is the culprit. But is it the unhappy and unstable younger son or someone else entirely?
The second installment in this series is another fun, quaint mystery. I had enjoyed the tone of the first book, Death Comes to the Village, and was quite happy to check out book two. The mystery was standard and I had fun guessing “whodunit”, but it was the fun interactions between Kurland and Lucy that stood out for me.
These two continually argue with each other, but when it counts, they’re a good team. Not only do they both have access to very different social realms, but they also respect each others opinion (for the most part) even when they disagree. This respect is most especially important to Lucy, who generally seems to be discounted and taken for granted. I do find it interesting that the Major seems to assume that everyone else values Lucy like he does, and I find myself hoping that he soon realizes that Lucy is and feels like he is under appreciated. Perhaps the Major could do something about this? Which leads me to the romance…
My biggest complaint about book one was the lack of romance. In book two, I was really hoping that there would be more of the development of the relationship between Robert and Lucy, and I have to admit that, yet again, I was disappointed. There are hints at a possible relationship between the two, and everyone around them seems to think they are headed in that direction, but neither Robert or Lucy seem that way inclined. I really would have liked to get more exploration of their perceptions of each other; I think this might make the romance element stronger. As it is, I feel that the mystery takes centre stage, and I don’t want it to be at the expense of the relationship developing between Robert and Lucy.
All-in-all I thought this was another nice addition to a series. Death Comes to London is not a graphic or violent mystery, so I think it will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries. The Regency setting also allows for some great crossover appeal to historical romance fans that enjoy a heavier dose of mystery. I’ll be back for book three, I just have to know if what adventure these two are going to get into next.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Originally published at The Book Adventures.
The Major also finds himself in London, albeit reluctantly, after being summoned by the Prince Regent to be given a baronetcy. Kurland is none to happy that it is Miss Harrington who is responsible for bringing him to the attention of the Prince, and he’s ready to give her a piece of his mind, until murder forces him to consider more important matters.
When the dowager Countess of Broughton drops dead at a ball, Kurland and Miss Harrington suspect murder, and the more questions they ask the more they are convinced that a family member is the culprit. But is it the unhappy and unstable younger son or someone else entirely?
The second installment in this series is another fun, quaint mystery. I had enjoyed the tone of the first book, Death Comes to the Village, and was quite happy to check out book two. The mystery was standard and I had fun guessing “whodunit”, but it was the fun interactions between Kurland and Lucy that stood out for me.
“Actually, I didn’t come to tell you about my meeting with the prince. I wanted your opinion on another matter.”
“You wanted my opinion?”
“Yes, Miss Harrington. You might be a little forthright at times, but there is no one I know with better sense.”
“I think that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.”
These two continually argue with each other, but when it counts, they’re a good team. Not only do they both have access to very different social realms, but they also respect each others opinion (for the most part) even when they disagree. This respect is most especially important to Lucy, who generally seems to be discounted and taken for granted. I do find it interesting that the Major seems to assume that everyone else values Lucy like he does, and I find myself hoping that he soon realizes that Lucy is and feels like he is under appreciated. Perhaps the Major could do something about this? Which leads me to the romance…
My biggest complaint about book one was the lack of romance. In book two, I was really hoping that there would be more of the development of the relationship between Robert and Lucy, and I have to admit that, yet again, I was disappointed. There are hints at a possible relationship between the two, and everyone around them seems to think they are headed in that direction, but neither Robert or Lucy seem that way inclined. I really would have liked to get more exploration of their perceptions of each other; I think this might make the romance element stronger. As it is, I feel that the mystery takes centre stage, and I don’t want it to be at the expense of the relationship developing between Robert and Lucy.
All-in-all I thought this was another nice addition to a series. Death Comes to London is not a graphic or violent mystery, so I think it will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries. The Regency setting also allows for some great crossover appeal to historical romance fans that enjoy a heavier dose of mystery. I’ll be back for book three, I just have to know if what adventure these two are going to get into next.
*Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Originally published at The Book Adventures.
October 31, 2019
Lucy and Robert are in London - she has accompanied her sister, Anna, and her friend, Sophia, who are both husband-hunting and he is to be honored by the Prince Regent with a baronetcy for his bravery at the Battle of Waterloo. While there, more than one murder occurs setting the dynamic duo to investigating.
January 5, 2015
An extremely well-plotted mystery that really kept me guessing, Death Comes to London is the second in the series but works fine as a stand alone. (I've already picked up book one, though--be warned! This series *might* be habit-forming ;) Seriously--the audio's downloading as I write this.)
Set during the Regency, Death felt authentic to its time period--Ms. Lloyd paid close attention to her details. When we're seeing a scene from Robert (Major Kurland)'s point of view, for example, Lucy is always referred to as Miss Harrington, whether it's in his thoughts or out loud; the same holds true when it's Lucy's POV. Details like this really made me feel as if I were immersed in the historical setting, which I loved.
The clues to the mystery are laid out with equal precision. The information you need to figure it out along with Lucy and Robert is all there, cleverly woven into the narrative if you're paying close enough attention. Even though I figured out whodunit a bit before our hero and heroine, other aspects of the mystery remained mysterious until the big reveal--exactly what I look for in a good mystery read.
The romance is still developing here--slow and steady wins the race, right?--and the ending has me very anxious for the next book in the series. Lucy and Robert are obviously (obviously to everyone else on the planet, that is, but sadly not to each other yet) an ideal match, and I'm dying (pun totally intended) for them to realize it. Together they form an inimitable duo reminiscent of Amelia Peabody/Radcliffe Emerson ( Crocodile on the Sandbank ) and Lady Emily Ashton/Colin Hargreaves ( And Only to Deceive ). Murderers, beware!
Hurry up, series book three!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Set during the Regency, Death felt authentic to its time period--Ms. Lloyd paid close attention to her details. When we're seeing a scene from Robert (Major Kurland)'s point of view, for example, Lucy is always referred to as Miss Harrington, whether it's in his thoughts or out loud; the same holds true when it's Lucy's POV. Details like this really made me feel as if I were immersed in the historical setting, which I loved.
The clues to the mystery are laid out with equal precision. The information you need to figure it out along with Lucy and Robert is all there, cleverly woven into the narrative if you're paying close enough attention. Even though I figured out whodunit a bit before our hero and heroine, other aspects of the mystery remained mysterious until the big reveal--exactly what I look for in a good mystery read.
The romance is still developing here--slow and steady wins the race, right?--and the ending has me very anxious for the next book in the series. Lucy and Robert are obviously (obviously to everyone else on the planet, that is, but sadly not to each other yet) an ideal match, and I'm dying (pun totally intended) for them to realize it. Together they form an inimitable duo reminiscent of Amelia Peabody/Radcliffe Emerson ( Crocodile on the Sandbank ) and Lady Emily Ashton/Colin Hargreaves ( And Only to Deceive ). Murderers, beware!
Hurry up, series book three!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2014
If you're curious, London's an amazing place. - David Bailey
Lucy Harrington, the reliable daughter of the village rector, accompanies her beautiful (and younger) sister to London for the season. Although Lucy enjoys tending to her father's flock, she is eager to find a husband and set up her own household. Lucy thinks she is leaving behind her special friend (and sleuthing partner) Major Robert Kurland. Yet fate takes him to London at the same time to appear before the Prince Regent. Their paths cross among the ton ... and they find themselves knee deep in a murder mystery.
Lloyd returns readers to the enchanting world of Regency England with two characters who continue to grow in their friendship and their attraction to the other. Lloyd captures the pageantry of the ton while delivering witty dialogue and a hint of "penny dreadfuls". Lloyd subtly addresses Lucy's apprehension to accept the limited opportunities for women in Regency England. Likewise, she continues to reveal Robert's hidden wounds from his military service. DEATH COMES TO LONDON is the perfect escape for fans of cozy mysteries and historical romances.
DEATH COMES TO LONDON is Book 2 in the Kurland St. Mary Mysteries series. It can be read as a stand alone story. However, readers will appreciate how Lucy and Robert became friends in Book 1, DEATH COMES TO THE VILLAGE.
I received an ARC from Kensington for an honest review.
Lucy Harrington, the reliable daughter of the village rector, accompanies her beautiful (and younger) sister to London for the season. Although Lucy enjoys tending to her father's flock, she is eager to find a husband and set up her own household. Lucy thinks she is leaving behind her special friend (and sleuthing partner) Major Robert Kurland. Yet fate takes him to London at the same time to appear before the Prince Regent. Their paths cross among the ton ... and they find themselves knee deep in a murder mystery.
Lloyd returns readers to the enchanting world of Regency England with two characters who continue to grow in their friendship and their attraction to the other. Lloyd captures the pageantry of the ton while delivering witty dialogue and a hint of "penny dreadfuls". Lloyd subtly addresses Lucy's apprehension to accept the limited opportunities for women in Regency England. Likewise, she continues to reveal Robert's hidden wounds from his military service. DEATH COMES TO LONDON is the perfect escape for fans of cozy mysteries and historical romances.
DEATH COMES TO LONDON is Book 2 in the Kurland St. Mary Mysteries series. It can be read as a stand alone story. However, readers will appreciate how Lucy and Robert became friends in Book 1, DEATH COMES TO THE VILLAGE.
I received an ARC from Kensington for an honest review.
September 5, 2016
This is a great series -- 3 books so far with the 4th due out in November. To my way of thinking, they are expensive so check to see if your library has them. I had to buy one that the library didn't have.
This is from the blurb -- When it's revealed she's been poisoned, Robert's former betrothed, Miss Chingford, is accused, and she in turn points a finger at Anna. I hate it when they pull stuff like this. The ONLY mention of this is one brief little time when they talk about who might have done it, but it is never serious. It is a good story with a good plot -- they don't have to do this sort of thing.
After her near death experience in the last book, Lucy has decided she needs some changes in her life. So, she and her sister Anna accompany Lucy's best friend, Sophia to London to have a season. Well -- it seems that Lucy attracts madness, mayhem and murder like a magnet. It is a good thing that she's also very good at solving them.
Sophia falls in love and gets engaged; Lucy gets tired of the sedentary, do-nothing lifestyle of London and is grateful she can go home. Major Robert Kurland is given a baronetsy by the regent -- and he blames Lucy for it (he doesn't like aristocrats).
There are 3 murders in this one and one villain who just has to be mad. Takes them a bit to figure how the murders happened and to figure out who did it -- some good detective work!
Good book.
This is from the blurb -- When it's revealed she's been poisoned, Robert's former betrothed, Miss Chingford, is accused, and she in turn points a finger at Anna. I hate it when they pull stuff like this. The ONLY mention of this is one brief little time when they talk about who might have done it, but it is never serious. It is a good story with a good plot -- they don't have to do this sort of thing.
After her near death experience in the last book, Lucy has decided she needs some changes in her life. So, she and her sister Anna accompany Lucy's best friend, Sophia to London to have a season. Well -- it seems that Lucy attracts madness, mayhem and murder like a magnet. It is a good thing that she's also very good at solving them.
Sophia falls in love and gets engaged; Lucy gets tired of the sedentary, do-nothing lifestyle of London and is grateful she can go home. Major Robert Kurland is given a baronetsy by the regent -- and he blames Lucy for it (he doesn't like aristocrats).
There are 3 murders in this one and one villain who just has to be mad. Takes them a bit to figure how the murders happened and to figure out who did it -- some good detective work!
Good book.
June 26, 2019
This was disappointing. I gave it two stars because I finished it, but the writing was really sloppy. There were run-on sentences, a few misused expressions, and some leaps in logic where it felt like the author skipped ahead a few steps without involving the reader.
For example, (and I'll keep this vague to avoid spoilers) at one point a character has an accident. Other characters are arguing about how to best help this character. Then the first character is referred to as a body that must be moved. Apparently at some point they died! The scene never jumped away and I would assume someone would have noticed but it wasn't commented on.
That was a particularly egregious example, but the novel was filled with things like that. I can only assume the editing was hurried through because the first novel, while not a masterpiece, was much more enjoyable. Furthermore, I've already started the next in the series and so far I'm finding it a vast improvement. So I'm hoping this was just a blip because if the whole series is like this one I'm going to have to give up on it.
For example, (and I'll keep this vague to avoid spoilers) at one point a character has an accident. Other characters are arguing about how to best help this character. Then the first character is referred to as a body that must be moved. Apparently at some point they died! The scene never jumped away and I would assume someone would have noticed but it wasn't commented on.
That was a particularly egregious example, but the novel was filled with things like that. I can only assume the editing was hurried through because the first novel, while not a masterpiece, was much more enjoyable. Furthermore, I've already started the next in the series and so far I'm finding it a vast improvement. So I'm hoping this was just a blip because if the whole series is like this one I'm going to have to give up on it.
May 16, 2025
I mean, yes, maybe slightly frivolous, but the mystery is good. The characters are very well written and the Major and Lucy are a compelling couple... Not a couple.. who respect each other and fight and pretend they don't like each other. It might not really be quite 5 stars, but it's got a lot going for it
September 14, 2017
A year later in March 1817 Lucy Harrington and her sister Anna leave Kurland St. Mary to have a season in town. Both looking for husbands.
Not long after Major Robert Kurland is summoned to London to accept a baronetcy for his war deeds.
When the grandmother of a Major's friend - the dowager Countess of Broughton - dies, Lucy and the Major begin their own investigation, but can they prevent more deaths.
Really liking the characters and enjoyed re-reading this second in the series and look forward to the next.
Not long after Major Robert Kurland is summoned to London to accept a baronetcy for his war deeds.
When the grandmother of a Major's friend - the dowager Countess of Broughton - dies, Lucy and the Major begin their own investigation, but can they prevent more deaths.
Really liking the characters and enjoyed re-reading this second in the series and look forward to the next.
August 23, 2016
I must admit that I would never have read this if it hadn't been a gift. It was a fairly good cosy mystery, although the plot was held together by threads of convention and I found some characters insufferable. However, I must certainly not let my own feminist principals get in the way of an 1817 historical context in which women were accredited with an insignificant quota of intelligence and fortitude, and men's acumen, pride and dignity were eminent!
July 26, 2015
This is fast becoming one of my favorite cozy series! I love the two main protagonists and the regency England setting these take place in. This was had good mystery and I am eager for book 3!
p.s. I have listened to both books so far on audio and highly recommend this format. The narrator does an excellent job.
p.s. I have listened to both books so far on audio and highly recommend this format. The narrator does an excellent job.
May 2, 2015
Maybe the author was rushed to get this second book out? It is not up to the level of the first book in the series. This one needs some assistance from an editor and at least one more draft. I still find the main characters interesting so I'll read the 3rd installment, but this one was disappointing.
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