Poison in Piccadilly

Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane Mystery #6

by Kelly Oliver

Preorder the BRAND NEW installment in Kelly Oliver's page-turning cosy mystery series!

Praise for Kelly

'A fast and fun-filled mystery that checks every box. If you're new to the series, it stands on its own as an action-packed novel that's leavened with the dry wit of its indomitable heroine. A 2024 must-read.' Lori Robbins

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

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

'Will keep you turning the pages and laughing all the way!' Dianne Freeman

'Perfect for fans of Downton Abbey and Maisie Dobbs.' BookTrib

'A pure delight! A bold, original sleuth, a devilishly charming adversary and a plucky Pekingese.' Mariah Fredericks

'Tantalizing and riveting with a good dose of humor.'  The Los Angeles Post
 
'Fiona reminds me so much of Miss Fisher. Humor, action, and intrigue.. thoroughly entertaining.' Urban Book Reviews

'A perfect blend of wit, fun, and intrigue.' Debra Goldstein
​
'Smart, sneaky, and full of surprises... A fun whodunit that will keep you turning the pages!'  Cathi Stoler

'Rich with historical details, and perfectly laced with humor and high jinks. Brilliant!' Margaret Mizushima

'Lushly layered in period detail, this mystery delivers twists in a lighthearted tale of suspense and derring-do.'  Muddy Rose Reviews

'A delightful English countryside mystery with two handsome suitors and twists and turns worthy of Agatha Christie herself!' Amanda Flower

'Fast-paced and clever, with a spirited heroine spy, this WWI-era mystery with a love triangle is catnip for fans of Susan Elia MacNeal's Maggie Hope and Rhys Bowen's Molly Murphy.' Karen Odden

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Cozy, Historical Mystery

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 14, 2024

About the author

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

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

Kelly lives in Nashville with three very demanding felines.

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

Reviews

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

The indomitable and ever-practical Fiona Figg is trousseau shopping for her upcoming marriage to Lieutenant Archie Somersby. She's feeling a little ambivalent about her nuptials, as she knows there are too many secrets in Archie's life, and Fiona wants to clear the air.

Taking a break from shopping, she heads to the jiujitsu dojo where Kitty Lane, her partner in espionage, is practicing for an upcoming competition. There, Fiona meets a number of Suffragettes learning jiujitsu.

In the changing room, Fiona is shocked to discover an unconscious Kitty with a big goose egg-sized bump on the young woman's head. When Kitty wakes up at the hospital, she remembers nothing about herself or anyone else, except that she works for MI-5, which Fiona dismisses as the product of an addled head. But, Fiona knows someone tried to kill Kitty, and she is determined to identify the perpetrator.

This takes her to the home of one of the Suffragettes, where Fiona stumbles upon the dead body of one of the group's women, with one of Fiona's new hatpins in the woman's neck. Naturally, the police arrest Fiona, but thank goodness Captain Hall of the War Office can get her out, and Fiona is even more determined to identify the killer, especially because if she doesn't, Fiona's the police's only suspect.

At the same time, Fiona is realizing that Archie and she have a number of vital things to establish before their marriage, such as the fact that Fiona intends to continue her espionage work, costumes and all, and that she cannot have children. Archie has assumed Fiona will simply retire to their new home and manage their household and family. So….serious potential points of dispute unless the two can find the time for a talk.

This, of course, never happens, as Fiona, and a recovering Kitty, are each investigating, with Fiona even heading to Ireland at one point.

There are secret identities to put on, moles to reveal, memories to recover, and an upcoming marriage that the closer they get to the date, the less Fiona is sure she wants to go through. And Frederick Fredericks is ever present, urging Fiona to be careful as Archie is lying to her about multiple things.

I enjoyed this latest entry is this silly, cozy, funny, and satisfying series. Kitty was less active in this latest, but Fiona is figuring out new costumes and identities, meeting Suffragettes and their not always supportive husbands, and wondering what to do with her own muddled feelings and life full of adventure and danger, both of which have given her much needed confidence and personal and professional satisfaction.

I liked how Kitty's injury caused her to question things she had been told about her life, and how she does an about face in her feelings about a situation involving Fiona. I have totally come around on this character, after initially being a little irritated when she first walked into this series, as it took focus from the wonderful Fiona, but the two women and their respective skills and abilities have proven a good match, and an effective investigative team.

And the team wouldn't be complete without another appearance by the ridiculous Clifford. The best thing about him is how unquestioningly supportive he is of the two women, despite some of his less than enlightened views on big game hunting and women's rights. Clifford consistently comes when called, is up for driving Fiona wherever she needs or playing along with her schemes, and will take care of Poppy at the drop of a hat. He's constantly silly, but a constant friend. Who would have thought that I would feel this way when he first appeared in the series?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and the ending leaves the story to go in some really interesting directions with Fiona taking charge of life in a way I had not anticipated. No matter how it plays out, I'm looking forward to it!

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

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poison in Piccadilly is the 9th book in the Fiona Figg series, but only the 6th in the Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane Mystery series. I have only read two of these books and suggest that you can read them as standalone stories, but you will miss some of the personal back stories and growth. This book opens with Kitty being found unconscious in the locker room at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club. She was there with a group of suffragettes and was attacked. When she comes to, she has amnesia and doesn't remember Fiona at all. Although Fiona is busy planning her wedding to Archie, she leaves it and tries to find out who attacked her friend and why. It leads her to a fancy luncheon, where another women ends up dead. Does this have to do with the suffragettes, or is there a spying network involved. Will she figure out what is happening before someone else dies? Will she be ready for her upcoming wedding?

I really enjoy reading about Fiona's and Kitty's adventures. Kitty was out of the picture for much of this book, but Fiona was in disguise and in danger more than once in this book. The story is set near the end of WW1, but there is still a lot of spying going on. While trying to solve the mystery of who tried to kill Kitty, she stumbles upon secrets involving M5 that she was not privy to. There are lots of twists as both Kitty and Fiona try to figure out why Kitty is a target. And then there is the suffragette movement that also comes into play in this one. The one thing that I am not a fan of is the possible love triangle. Spy, Fredrick Fredricks and fiancé Captain Archie Somersby both have her attention, but it is Archie that seems to have won her hand. In this book, Fiona has to decide if she really wants to marry him. Is this marriage the one that will tie her hands and have her sitting home being a good wife? Will Archie allow her to work for the war office? Does she love him enough, or are her feelings for Fredrick stronger. She has decisions to make in her personal life. This is another mystery with some humour, disguises, secrets, danger, twists and suspense. I enjoy this series, and recommend it to those who enjoy historical mysteries with great characters.

[Jeane · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a whirlwind of a story! Set in 1918 London we are the guest in a fast paced story involving Fiona Digg, soon to be married, and legendary Kitty Lane who is joining the judo training suffragettes!
We are staying local this time with our two heroines and get to know them in a more personal environment. But one that comes with Kitty being attacked and having amnesia after being found unconscious during a high-stake competition. Fiona and her friends are trying to find out who is behind all this, but it doesn't stop with this first attack. Fiona is also starting to find it very difficult to know who she can trust, who is telling the truth or not.. and this involves also her fiancé Archie. The War Office, MI5 and the always suspicious, handsome devil Fredrick Fredricks are involved and making it all worse for Fiona. Oh and did I mention she is about to marry in a few days too????
What a great story. I always adore the Fiona Figg stories but this one was really great! Fast paced, mysterious, seductive with some poison, attacks and more...it kept me on the tip of my chair and wondering till the end what happened and who was good or bad!

[Rubi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun read!

Fiona is getting hitched! But....is she really? She doesn't completely trust Archie, but when Kitty gets attacked and Archie's name comes she's refuses to believe it.
Frederick also proves Archie may be giving her bad information. But is Archie an enemy? Fiona still isn't sure. She begins to question why he's in such a rush to get married and the fact they both want different things in life.
Her wedding doesn't go as planned and for once I feel kinda bad for Archie, since he was in a pickel 😅
But at the same time, I'm not mad at this ending. I think it was meant to be 😂
Ps. Amnesia on Kitty made her more tolerable, and made her less team Archie lol
It was a fun read and one in which Fiona had to defend herself all while planning a wedding, poor old girl haha

[June Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hang on to your hat. You're about to go on another wild, unpredictable adventure with Fiona Figg. One never quite knows what to expect when Fiona is involved and this time is no exception. As the book opens, she's preparing to her wedding to the dashing Captain Archie Somersby. That comes to a sudden halt, however, when her "niece" Kitty Lane is found unconscious at the jujitsu club where she's training for a competition. She has amnesia as a result and much of the book deals with how this very capable woman deals with being a marked woman but doesn't even know who she is let alone why someone would try to kill her. Her points of view were both intriguing and scary as one imagines oneself in the same situation. Fiona, needless to say, is determined to figure it all out, never mind the wedding. And, that's when things get really complicated and the twists and turns come rapidly and unexpectedly. Even women's struggle to earn the right to vote, not to mention equal rights, comes into play.

Needless to say, I'm not even going to attempt to share the plot further than that. Well, other than to say the charming enigma that is Fredricks is involved, very involved, and Archie goes missing. Well, so does Kitty, Rather hard to have a wedding with neither the bride's maid or groom. In the meantime, the war rages on, with no one quite sure what side anyone is really on. Fiona's hormones seem to be raging on, too, but, oops, no more about that.

Seriously, this is always a fun, quick read with some characters loosely based on real people. After allowing myself to get distracted in previous books by the sudden need to know if so-and-so was real or not, I've learned to check the author's historical notes at the end early on. Always fascinating to see how she weaves fiction into the reality of WWI. I've met some fascinating people that way, btw, so prepare to both enjoy the roller coaster ride that comes along with Fiona and experience bits of life long past. My thanks to #BoldwoodBooks for sharing this early peek into Fiona's always bemusing, fascinating world. This history and cozy mystery loving buff thoroughly enjoys the ride.

[Storied Conversation · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but you might miss out on some of the personal backstories and character growth from earlier installments. The story kicks off with Kitty being found unconscious in the locker room of the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club, where she was with a group of suffragettes. After the attack, she suffers from amnesia and doesn’t remember Fiona at all. Despite being in the middle of planning her wedding to Archie, Fiona puts everything on hold to investigate who hurt her friend and why. The trail leads her to a fancy luncheon, where another woman turns up dead. Is this tied to the suffragette movement, or is there a deeper espionage plot at work? Fiona races to solve the mystery before more lives are lost—all while juggling her wedding preparations.

I always enjoy the adventures of Fiona and Kitty, although Kitty takes a backseat in this book. Fiona is front and center, often in disguise and constantly in danger, which makes for a thrilling read. The WWI setting adds plenty of intrigue, with espionage and hidden secrets—including ones Fiona herself didn’t know about. As the investigation unfolds, there are twists involving both the suffragettes and the espionage network.

There’s also a romantic subplot where Fiona’s attention is split between spy Frederick Fredricks and her fiancé, Captain Archie Somersby. As an Archie fan, I wasn’t sure how I felt about this love triangle aspect. Fiona faces a major decision about whether or not to marry Archie, and this personal dilemma adds complexity to the story.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries!

Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, Rachel's Random Resources, and the author for my ARC of in exchange for an honest review.

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

1918, Fiona Figg is all set to marry her beau Archie but she still doesn't fully trust him. Her suspicions are further raised when her 'niece' Kitty is attacked and Archie could be responsible...
Poison in Piccadilly is the 6th book to feature secret agents Fiona and Kitty as they strive to support the war effort but become embroiled in murders as well.
The mistrust that Fiona feels towards Archie and Kitty is exacerbated in this book. Kitty is attacked early on and suffers from amnesia. In her confusion she reveals some secrets which prove she has previously been economic with the truth. Archie is photographed with another woman and is never where he claims to be. The wedding seems like a big mistake...
There is also a murder to investigate although the police are baffled. Ellen dies at a dinner party, apparently from a heart attack but with Fiona's hatpin stabbed in her. I was waiting to see where the poison in the title comes from and it doesn't feature until the second half of the book.
As usual for this series of books, there is great attention to the historical and geographical detail which underpins the plot. This book features suffragettes and characters based on real life people from the era.
I liked seeing a more vulnerable side to Kitty as well as more information about her hidden past. Added to wedding woes, worries about Kitty's memory and the murder investigation, Fiona is also reunited with the notorious German spy Fredrick Fredricks. I love their 'will they, won't they' relationship and the ending was a real cliffhanger so I can't wait for the next book.
Poison in Piccadilly is a very enjoyable cosy historical murder mystery.

[Louise Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

1918, London. Is Fiona Figg ready to exchange her sleuthing cap for a bridal veil?

Fiona is set to tie the know with her dashing flyboy, Archie Somersby. But while Fiona is planning her happy ever after, side-kick Kitty Lane and a group of judo-chopping suffragettes are kicking up trouble at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club when Kitty is found unconscious in the locker room during a high-stakes competition, Fiona must forsake her bouquets and bridal gown to investigate. Her sleuthing leads to a posh ladies' luncheon, where a mysterious death crashes Fiona's wedding plans. To make matters worse, the arch-nemesis of all things matrimonial, Fredrick Freddo is up to his old tricks, attempting to put the brakes on Fiona's journey down the aisle.

Kitty Lane is found unconscious at the local jujitsu club, where she was training for a competition. Now, as a result, she has amnesia. This is a fast-paced and action-packed read. The characters are based on real people. It's mostly set in London, but we get a trip to Ireland. Fiona is on the trail of a man suspected of being a spy. Fiona is also torn between the man she is about to marry and the man she is following. This is the first book in the series that I've read and it does read well as a standalone.

Published 14th September 2024

I would like to thank #NetGalley #Boldwoodbooks and the author #KellyOliver for my ARC of #PoisonInPiccadilly in exchange for an honest review.

[April Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 1918 Fiona Figg is on leave for a month from the British War Office to arrange her wedding when her "niece" Kitty Lane is attacked during a Jiujitsu competition and has amnesia. We are treated to a roller coaster of a ride as Fiona and Kitty (along with Clifford and of course Kitty's furry friend Poppy) try to figure out who attached Kitty and why. This story is everything you could want in a mystery. It has spies, secrets, suffragettes, and plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. I don't want to give too much away. You need to read it for yourself and enjoy every minute. I literally could not put it down.! This has to be the best cozy mystery I have read this year so far. I can't recommend it high enough!

Fiona's spunk, determination and definitely her love of disguises and spy gadgets make her one of my favorite sleuths. Kitty comes a close second with her spy training, foot fighting and love for her little Pekinese, Poppy. Clifford rounds this mystery solving trio and he's a gem too. There is also a love triangle. I have to admit I am Team Frederick Fredericks!

There were some unresolved events, so I hope that means that we are going to get another installment--pretty please!

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this and give my honest review.

[Haley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a tough review for me. I first got into this series through an ARC for Murder in Moscow & then went back to start the series from the beginning because I enjoyed it so much. I've read all but two of the series now. I am glad I wasn't introduced to the series through this book as it is not, in my opinion, the strongest of the series. While there are things I enjoyed, and interesting developments with the characters, Fiona nearly drove me nuts. I found her so irritating in this book. She does some pretty silly things, even more than usual. Without giving spoilers away, I found her particularly grating anytime she was thinking or dealing with Archie. It was all a bit melodramatic for me. I love a good romance novel, but I prefer my cozy mystery romances to be much less melodramatic! I also wanted more chapters from Kitty's perspective. I found it very frustrating that Fiona & Clifford didn't believe Kitty for most of the book. I felt that Fiona's spying capabilities & intelligence in this book didn't match with the last one, although admittedly it is not fresh in my mind since I have read 5 other books in the series between reading it and this one. I will continue to read this series, but this was not one I particularly enjoyed.

Thank you to NetGalley & Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kristine Booksandstuff123 · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Poison in Piccadilly' by Kelly Oliver.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
'What a surprising ending!!'
London 1918: Is Fiona Figg ready to exchange her sleuthing cap for a bridal veil?
Fiona is set to tie the knot with her dashing captain, Archie Somersby. But, while Fiona is busy planning her happily ever after, side-kick Kitty Lane and a group of judo-chopping suffragettes are kicking up trouble at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club.
When Kitty is found unconscious in the locker room during a high-stakes competition, Fiona must forsake her bouquets and bridal gown to investigate. Her sleuthing leads to a posh lady’s luncheon where a mysterious death crashes Fiona’s wedding plans.
To make matters worse, the arch-nemesis of all things matrimonial Fredrick Fredricks is up to his old tricks, attempting to put the brakes on Fiona’s journey down the aisle. Will he succeed in tripping up Fiona’s wedding vows? Or will she finally say “I don’t” to the charming devil?

I've read quite a few in this series and I always enjoy them. This particular one had me gripped from the beginning. I'm a big fan of Kitty Lane so I'm happy she was featured a lot more in this book (along with Poppy Poo). The ending was a huge surprise.
If you're a fan of cozy crime and adventure then give this series a read.
Thankyou to NetGallery UK, the publishers and the author for letting me reading a copy in return for an honest review.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Kelly Oliver for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Poison in Piccadilly coming out September 14, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

1918 London

Is Fiona Figg ready to exchange her sleuthing cap for a bridal veil?

Fiona is set to tie the knot with her dashing flyboy, Archie Somersby. But, while Fiona is busy planning her happily ever after, side-kick Kitty Lane and a group of judo-chopping suffragettes are kicking up trouble at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club.

When Kitty is found unconscious in the locker room during a high-stakes competition, Fiona must forsake her bouquets and bridal gown to investigate. Her sleuthing leads to a posh lady's luncheon where a mysterious death crashes Fiona's wedding plans.

To make matters worse, the arch-nemesis of all things matrimonial, Fredrick Fredricks is up to his old tricks, attempting to put the brakes on Fiona's journey down the aisle. Will he succeed in tripping up Fiona's wedding vows? Or will she finally say "I don't" to the charming devil?

I really love this series! It’s perfectly cozy. I love the time period! Fiona is a smart and strong character. I was definitely happy to see some romance development after the last book. Some great decisions were made! I thought the mystery was really fun. I loved it! I’m excited to read more books in the series!

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical cozy mysteries!

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

I've read the earlier books in the "Fiona Figg" series, and always enjoyed them; this one was no exception. Fiona Figg is preparing for her wedding to the dashing Archie. Unfortunately the wedding preparations are beset by a number of unfortunate events - for instance Kitty (her bridesmaid) is found unconscious after an encounter with an unknown attacker, and and Archie (the putative groom) goes missing! Needless to say that the dashing Frederick Fredericks is also involved.

As usual, Fiona (when WILL her hair grow back properly?!) takes every opportunity to exercise her sleuthing skills, and to dress up in character.

The novel features the usual crew, together with a cast of new supporting characters. Thanks to her amnesia, we learn more about Kitty's character, and little Poppy provides sweet pup vibes as usual. As usual, there is a tongue-in-cheek feel to the novel.

The book ends on a cliffhanger - but you'll have to read it for yourself to find out what it is!

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

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

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

London, 1918: and Fiona Figg is preparing to wed the charming Captain Archie Somersby. But just as she’s dreaming of her perfect wedding, chaos strikes. Her trusty sidekick, Kitty Lane, and a group of suffragettes are causing quite a ruckus at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club. Things take a serious turn when Kitty is found unconscious in the locker room, forcing Fiona to swap wedding plans for sleuthing once more.

As Fiona dives into the mystery, she finds herself at a posh luncheon where a sudden death throws yet another wrench into her big day. To make matters worse, her nemesis, Fredrick Fredricks, is back and more determined than ever to disrupt her walk down the aisle.

I absolutely loved this book. "Poison in Piccadilly" is a lively mix of humour, intrigue, and high-society shenanigans. Even though it’s part of Kelly Oliver’s “Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane” series, newcomers can easily enjoy this instalment without having read the previous books. With witty dialogue, clever twists, and a dash of romance, this book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a light-hearted historical mystery with plenty of surprises. Will Fiona make it to the altar, or will her detective skills once again take centre stage? You’ll have to read to find out! You won't be disappointed

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the latest installment of the Fiona Figg cozy mystery series, readers join Fiona as she prepares to hang up her detective hat and replace it with a wedding veil in 1918. In the days before her wedding to Archie Somersby, Fiona is ready for a happy marriage when Kitty Lane and some suffragettes are in a bit of a tight spot. Kitty, found unconscious in the jiu jitsu studio, has lost her short-term memory and is in the middle of an operation that no one else is familiar with. Besides having to watch Kitty and figure out her case, Fiona must also deal with a mysterious death at a wealthy woman’s luncheon and deal with Fredrick Fredricks’ usual shenanigans. With a lot going on and many demands on her time and attention, readers join Fiona in these chaotic times and help her solve two cases and deal with the sudden messiness of her love life just in time for her wedding day. With the usual cast of characters in full form, readers will love the new twists and turns and historical moments Oliver drops into the novel, and the new characters and mysteries are complex and unique. Readers have many threads to pull and follow in this novel and will love Kelly Oliver’s latest Fiona Figg mystery.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Nanasbookreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Poison in Piccadilly by Kelly Oliver is a historical mystery. It's the sixth book from the "Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane mystery series.

Miss Fiona Figg was just days away from becoming Mrs. Archie Somersby, with countless details to finalize before her wedding. However, an unexpected turn of events halted her preparations. Her trusted ally, Kitty Lane, was attacked and left with no memory, thrusting Fiona into a race to uncover the truth. As she delved deeper into the investigation, startling revelations about her fiancé
surfaced, causing her to question whether she should proceed with the marriage. Enter the charming and cunning Fredrick Fredricks, whose clever maneuvers helped her make a decision that would alter her life forever.

This series continues to captivate with each new installment. It’s a fast-paced mystery brimming with action, wit, and a touch of forbidden romance. The camaraderie among the main characters adds a warm, familial element, making the story even more engaging. Once you start reading, it’s impossible to put the book down. I particularly enjoyed the scenes with Fredrick, which added depth and intrigue to the plot.

If you're a fan of historical mysteries, this book is a must-read.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to a version of The Great War agents of the War Office and MI5 Security Service that is a lot more fun than the real thing. Fiona is less in disguise this time and is seeing an aspect of her intended that is of the time but nothing she wants to live with. Kitty Lane gets afflicted with amnesia, learns an early form of kickboxing, and roots out villains. All this while I laughed my sox off!
The author's note at the end reveals much of the research done and the real people who inspired the characters in the story. Ellen Davis inspired by the real Eliza Davis Aria London fashion writer/gossip columnist. Sylvia Pankhurst is based on suffragette Estelle Sylvia Pankhurst who worked for more extensive women's rights than her mother and sister but also for workers' rights in England and Ireland. There's more and a bit of biographical material as well.
This can't be an unbiased review because this is one of my favorite series!
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
#FionaFiggAndKittyLaneMysteriesNo6
Pub Date Sep 14, 2024

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series although I have been a little frustrated at Fiona not being able to make up her mind in whether she loves Archie or Fredrick. But there is a wedding planned in this novel so that should settle the issue. Or maybe not.

There is a mole at MI5. There are plenty of hints that it might be Archie. Can Fiona trust him? It seems Kittly has the key to the problem inside her but with amnesia, she is no help in Fiona making the right choices.

There is a bit of repetition in this novel as Fiona goes over the facts she knows and muses what they might mean. There is plenty of action too, however, as Fiona uses her disguises to go undercover to determine the person who gave Kitty the memory destroying head wound. And then there is a murder Fiona must investigate too.

This is an entertaining and fun novel. Much of the relationship interactions are founded in earlier novels and would be best understood by reading them first although this book does read relatively well on its own.

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

[Seriesbooklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.
Fiona has had an eventful few months- I have to keep reminding myself that the events of the first book were 6 months from when Poison in Piccadilly is set. In that time, Fiona has become a valuable agent for the War Office ( finally acknowledged by her boss), falls out with the love of her life, Archie, runs away to be with her nemesis Fredick, gets engaged to Archie and becomes a surrogate aunt to hardass teenage spy, Kitty. So for Fiona planning a wedding seems a little tame, especially, if she has to give up her career after becoming a wife.
But as with the other books in the series, Fiona finds herself investigating a murder, if only to clear her name but without Kitty, who has amnesia after being hit on the head at suffragette Jitsu!
The plot moves quickly with plenty of action and disguises, and a good dose of humour, I enjoyed the developing relationship between Fredricks and Fiona, but we do learn a little more about the mysterious Archie.
The main plot resolves neatly but so many subplots are tantalisingly left unfinished.

[Sarah (Curl up With A Cosy Crime Novel) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Plot

Fiona, who is soon to be married, investigates after her friend and associate Kitty is attacked and someone they knew is murdered. Can she trust those closest to her?

The Review

There were some exciting disguises and interesting plot points. A busy plot with plenty of drama, not least in Fiona’s love life as a subplot.

Although I hadn’t read any other books in the series, the novel gave background information as to the connections and relationships between characters, but this was not overly drawn out. The historical details gave the novel a good sense of time and place.

As you would expect, Fiona and Kitty were modern, independent and intelligent women. I thought in the first half of the novel, Fiona could have gathered more clues, as there was a lot of action but not much reflection on the investigation. In the second half, the plot speeded up which kept me hooked into the narrative. I had to suspend my disbelief in parts, especially with the spy theme, which seemed at times, a little far-fetched. It was more of a spy novel than cosy crime. However, it made for an enjoyable afternoon read.

[M.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poison in Piccadilly is the latest Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane mystery. I've read them all.

Told with its tongue-in-cheek humour and with Fiona's penchant for fake moustaches never far away, this story is set mostly in London, with a quick trip to Ireland, and in a role-reversal, sees Kitty requiring Fiona's help. All the while, Fiona is supposed to be preparing for her wedding. As ever, torn between the man she's supposed to trail as he's suspected of being a spy and her soon-to-be husband, Fiona is never entirely sure who to trust as she investigates the latest mystery to fall in her lap.

With all of the series favourites and many unexpected twists and turns, Poison in Piccadilly is a fun read. For all its humour, I do adore the way this series effortlessly weaves a fictional narrative featuring historical people and events.

You're missing a treat if you've not tried a Fiona Figg ad Kitty Lane story yet.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is part of the Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane series. I've read most of the previous books in the series, and I enjoyed all of them, so I was excited for this.

These are historical cosy mysteries, and each one takes place in a different location. This one takes place in London, in 1918. Fiona and Kitty are fun characters, and always make me smile, which is something that I enjoy about them. I really like how they work together. I found that on this occasion, some elements of the storyline made me chuckle too.

This was a fun, entertaining, cosy mystery. I enjoyed the atmosphere, and it lifted my mood to read this. I feel the individual books also work well as standalones, so if you enjoy historical cosy mysteries, you may like this series.

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

[Eunice R · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it took me several days to finish reading this book Poison in Piccadilly, I found it to be a light-hearted, quick read. As always, Fionna Figg is quite an amusing character along side Kitty Lane, the erstwhile Fredrick Fredricks and the elusive Lieutenant Archie. Mix ups, poisons (obviously), hatpins and surprizes await the reader of this fun mystery-murder tale. What's more, I'm wondering if readers of other Fionna Figg and Kitty Lane books can imagine a married Fionna Figg! Ha, ha, potential readers will just have to indulge themselves to find out...

~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~

September 2024

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

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

The affair, the divorce, my husband— ex-husband— dying in my arms from mustard gas, rather put me off matrimony.

My chest expanded with pride, and I felt like the buttons might pop off my blouse I was so chuffed.

The limbo of waiting always put my mind in an awkward state of relaxed agitation.


My Review:

This was an entertaining, fun, and amusing tale to unwind with between tenser thrillers. I always come away with several interesting bits of history while perusing Ms. Oliver's cleverly conjured mysteries.

The story threads were cleverly woven with an ample supply of amusing humor and were well-researched and well-nuanced to snag my gray matter and keep me guessing. I reveled in learning more about Kitty while she unraveled the perplexing mysteries of herself. No one was as they appeared, especially a bearded and bewigged Fiona.

[Mystica · Rating 3 out of 5]

A series of cozy mysteries but this is good reading as a stand alone.

Kitty and Fiona are friends and when Kitty suffers a attack and subsequently has amnesia not remembering who Fiona is, it prompts Fiona to try to find who attacked Kitty, especially when another woman is found dead at a lunch attended by Fiona.

Set at the end of WWII Fiona has to figure out many things. Is this connected to a spy ring or is it a means of stopping the suffragette movement which is gaining momentum. On A personal level Fiona has to decide between Archie and Fredrick - is she willing to take on the role of stay at home wife after marriage. That is quite apparent if she chooses Archie.

Many elements made this story interesting. Humour, plenty of secrets, hard to make decisions, distrust.
Altogether a fun read.

[Noemi Proietti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Poison in Piccadilly is a quick and witty read! There are wedding preparations, a groom full of secrets, a young woman with amnesia, lots of espionage and subterfuges, and the suffragette movement in the background that kept me quite entertained.

As I haven’t yet read the first books in the series, I can confirm that this sixth book in the Fiona Figg & Kitty Lane Mystery series can easily be read as a stand-alone. We are in London in 1918 and the story starts with its protagonist, Fiona Figg, right in the middle of her wedding preparations to the dashing Captain Archie Somersby. Clever and determined, Fiona is a young woman working for the British War Office where she’s been known to do a bit of spying and undercover jobs and chasing traitors. As her friend Kitty is attacked during a class at the Piccadilly Jujitsu Club, Fiona launches herself in the investigation and the wedding takes second place, especially as her fiancé’s mystery job starts giving her doubts. Can she marry someone with so many secrets? And as someone who craves not only independence, but also the thrill of chasing spies across the globe, can Fiona really be expected to give up her job once she is married?

This was such a fun and intriguing read. There is so much going on: mystery and espionage, a charming opponent (who I am really rooting for), a fantastic strong-willed heroine, accurate historical details, and much more. Poison in Piccadilly is a riveting and action-packed cozy mystery novel, full of twists and turns, and with an unexpected ending that leaves the reader looking forward to Fiona’s next adventure!

[KathleenWH · Rating 5 out of 5]

A whirling dervish of a story

This is the story you never expected.

It is totally unpredictable, full of twists and turns, and just when the reader might think she or he understands who is who and what is going to happen next, Kelly Oliver pulls the rug out and we all tumble together into the next totally unexpected scene.

I absolutely loved this story, and even a few pages from the end, I had no idea how it would all turn out.

But it did, and I had a big smile on my face — perhaps as big as Fiona’s.

So, this isn’t a review, per se, because nothing I could write would make sense without you having read the work - and please do, because for me, it is the best book I have read in years.

[Dieuwke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fast paced female whodunnit (and why). Main character Fiona Figgs, working for the British War Office during WW1, tries to figure out who is behind the murderous attacks on her protege Kitty Lane. Kitty Lane suffers amnesia after the first attack and remembers virtually nothing, although there's something with MI5...
There's a dashing baddy (but is he really a baddy?) giving Fiona all the feels, whilst she should really collect her dress for her upcoming marriage to someone else.
It's part of a series but really easy to read as a stand-alone, as I did. I am very curious what will happen next though.

It was a fun read, I've learned quite a bit too, but really Fiona isn't all too clever and that got on my nerves now and then. Still an enjoyable read and yes, I want to read the next one :)

I received an eARC from NetGalley in return for my honest opinion.

[Miki Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fiona and Clifford are waiting for Kitty to meet them when they spot Poppy, her dog, on her own on Piccadilly. They rush to where she was and find her unconscious. It is found that she has amnesia at the hospital and while she struggles to get her memory back, Kitty must investigate who tried to kill her. The trail leads from the Dojo where she was discovered, to a Society House, where another woman is found dead. Was she the target or was Kitty. With the help of her trusty disguises, Clifford and Fredrick Fredricks the trail leads her to Eire and back again.
Will she detail the murderer before he manages to kill Kitty?
A fun cosy crime.

[Andrea Wenger · Rating 5 out of 5]

London sleuth Fiona is about to marry a dashing spy. Her wedding plans are disrupted when her partner is found unconscious, and a mysterious death ensues. With a German agent determined to sabotage her big day, Fiona must put her detective skills to the test and choose between love and justice.

This clever mystery is light and entertaining. I love these characters and have grown attached to them over the course of the series. I enjoyed the audiobook narration.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.