Murder in Mayfair

Lady Eleanor Swift #18

by Verity Bright

Tea and cake at The Ritz, a stolen pearl necklace and a missing dead body… Lady Swift is back on the case!
Lady Eleanor Swift has been eagerly awaiting her trip in a hot air balloon to take in London’s amazing sights. But what she witnesses instead is a murder! From way up high she sees man in a dark coat shoot another man dead, but by the time she arrives back on the ground, Eleanor can find no trace of the body. Just the broken piece of a pearl necklace clasp, trodden into the dirt. Back at The Ritz hotel, over afternoon tea, Eleanor’s old friend Lady Philomena Chadwick confides in her about a scandalous theft. Lady Chadwick is certain someone on her staff has stolen her priceless pink pearl necklace. Eleanor is immediately suspicious when the description matches the jewellery she spotted at the crime scene. Much to her butler Clifford’s amusement, Eleanor goes undercover as a governess in the Chadwick’s sparkling Mayfair mansion. As she sets about questioning the disgruntled staff, she uncovers a treasure trove of gossip. But how do a secret love affair, a flirty footman with a fondness for spying, and a housemaid hiding a nightly visitor connect to the murder? And when Eleanor’s beau, Detective Hugh Seldon, is brought in to investigate a string of further robberies in Park Lane, Eleanor is certain that Chadwick House is hiding the unlikeliest gang of jewel thieves below stairs…Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but will this necklace get Eleanor killed before she uncovers the hidden gem she needs to crack the case? Murder in Mayfair is a totally gripping and twisty Golden Age whodunnit set in London, perfect for fans of T.E. Kinsey, Agatha Christie and Catherine Coles!

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

344 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 27, 2024

About the author

Verity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery.

Reviews

[Phrynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The eighteenth book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series and I thought it was one of the best of them all.

The scene is set in London where Ellie, Clifford and the ladies are visiting the British Empire Exhibition to see all the sights of the colonial world. Ellie is lucky enough to go up in a hot air balloon from where she witnesses a murder below. Unfortunately there is no physical evidence of anything having taken place at all but Clifford and Hugh (who just happens to be working there) stand by her word and the investigation begins.

I always enjoy these books but this one had everything. The historical aspect was fascinating and sent me off to Google to find out more about the Exhibition. All of the characters were there right down to Gladstone and Tomkins. An interesting new character was added to the team. The mystery was intriguing. Ellie was in top form. Hugh got really sentimental. All that and an exciting and dangerous finale. Loved it!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift, her butler, Clifford and the ladies, were in London for a day or two, for the British Empire Exhibition. Eleanor had decided on a hot air balloon ride, which Clifford declined in partaking. But it was while aloft that Eleanor spotted two men down below, in one of the vacant exhibition areas, and she saw one shoot the other. When she was finally able to head to the area, there was nothing there - no sign of what she'd seen. Did she imagine it?

Lady Chadwick, a person Eleanor didn't know well, approached Ellie at The Ritz, where she was staying, and begged her for help. An expensive pearl necklace had gone missing and Lady Chadwick was sure one of her staff was the thief. Could Ellie pretend to be a governess to her two children, all the while investigating the loss of the necklace? Of course, Ellie would help (wondering all the while what she would do with two children!) Clifford would be close at hand, but not living in Chadwick House, while Ellie's fiance, Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, was also in London, but for a different purpose. Ellie was quite bemused with what she found in the manor; the back biting and mud slinging wasn't how it was in Hendon Hall. Gradually she made her way forward - but would she find the answers she needed? And how was it connected to the murder Ellie thought she saw?

Murder in Mayfair is the 18th in the Lady Eleanor Swift series by Verity Bright and I loved it once again! Ellie's an excellent character and with Clifford by her side, along with Gladstone (the dog) and Tomkins (the cat) and of course, Hugh - the highjinks continue. This series is always fun and entertaining, and this one is no different. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Paraphrodite · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

I've probably been a bit stingy with my rating for this series overall. The books probably should have been 3.5 stars rather than 3 stars on average. So for this latest addition I've upgraded my rating accordingly.

In this book, Ellie witnesses a murder on a hot air balloon ride that has gone out of control. She does some sort of Mission Impossible stunt leaping off the balloon to try to catch the killer. But by the time she got down, inside one of the Pavilions of the British Empire Exhibition, the corpse has disappeared! And of course, it's her fiancé Hugh who is in charge of the Exhibition and has to placate that Pavilion's Ambassador who believes Ellie is deliberately trying to besmirch his country's reputation.

On top of that, Ellie is also asked by a female acquaintance if she would go undercover as her children's nanny to investigate the loss of a pearl necklace that she believes has been stolen by one of the staff. I did find this plot point a bit hard to believe, although I think I understand the need for Ellie to go undercover into that household.

The final unveiling of the murderer was actually a bit of a surprise for me. But I did enjoy the times Ellie spent with all the children. I'm hoping to see more of Kofi in the future. And although I'm all caught up now, I will definitely be revisiting this series at a later date.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Bookoture and NetGalley for the free advanced reading copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.

While visiting the British Empire Exhibition at Wembley Park, London is supposed to be a fun treat for all the residents of Henley Hall. The ladies and Clifford will examine modern improvements that could make their work easier while Ellie will get to see the sights of countries she has never been to. Right away she has her qualms about the portrayal of "natives" of certain countries and is curious about the closed off section that was supposed to portray the Gold Coast (Ghana). During a hot air balloon ride gone awry, Ellie spies a man shot in the closed off pavilion. She rushes to his aid, alerting the security team (headed up by her fiancé), but by the time they arrive, the body has disappeared and Ellie is seen as a hysterical female. Not even Clifford and Hugh believe her at first. Hugh makes a few discreet inquiries though and knows Ellie saw what she thinks she saw but his hands are tied by the higher-ups. Then Lady Philomena Chadwick, the wife of a wealthy banker, wants Ellie to find her missing pearl necklace before her husband returns home on Friday! She's a little cagy about what she wants Ellie to do, exactly, and when Ellie arrives at the lady's fine Mayfair home, she discovers the house is run by a martinet butler and she is expected to be the new governess! How on earth is she going to find a missing necklace if she's upstairs in the school room? If only Clifford were on hand to help sleuth. Murder at the Empire Exposition and a Society lady's missing pearl necklace. What do they have in common and how can Ellie solve the mysteries with the government being hush-hush about one and her employer lying to her about the other? Good thing she has Clifford and Hugh to bounce ideas off.

This story was so good! I couldn't put it down. I felt like I was there in 1920s London at the Exposition taking in the sights, traveling in a hot air balloon and learning about how the government wanted the British Empire to be portrayed vs. how it actually was. I studied these human zoos for a graduate school paper and this book doesn't even cover half of how demeaning and horrific these exhibitions actually were. I liked learning about the new household inventions that would make life easier for the ladies downstairs. That was a lot of fun but for some readers, it may be too much info dump. I liked how it was worked into the story though and not just a list of new inventions. The mysteries were both excellent. I figured out some of the mystery of the necklace but not much. There was a late twist to the plot I didn't see coming. I feel the ending veered off into fantasy territory a little too much for me. While I love some of the stories that may have inspired this one, the ending didn't fit the beginning.

Ellie is such a great character. She's sweet, loyal, caring and holds very modern views on people from other nations. She's great with kids and her education plan is amazing and the way school SHOULD be taught. However, Ellie is also impetuous and heedless. She goes haring off without thinking and sticks her nose in where it doesn't belong. The murder was none of her business after Hugh explained it was government business. The mystery of the missing necklace should have been easy for Ellie but it ended up being fairly complicated. I appreciate how she went to Clifford and Hugh with her concerns and her clues and they pieced the mystery together and came up with a plan together. That made a nice change from Ellie going off alone with Clifford at her back. The last adventure in Venice was pretty hair raising so I think she learned her lesson. We learn a bit more about Uncle Byron and Clifford's past. Just a hint at something that happened, a hint of an inside joke and a new ally who knew Uncle Byron and Clifford back in the day. Uncle Byron's death affected a lot of people but Ellie seems to be doing a great job following in his footsteps.

Clifford is clever and devious as usual. He's also Ellie's governess and bodyguard and always a true friend. He never fails to surprise me with what he knows and who he knows. He's overcome a lot and apparently owes Uncle Byron his loyalties even after death. Hugh is much improved. He's still overworked but that's not his fault. The Metropolitan Police force is understaffed and Hugh doesn't have the resources to investigate every crime that comes his way. At first it seems like he's just another government puppet, doing what he can to please his superiors but soon he realizes what is important. It's what draws him to Ellie. They both have huge hearts and want to see justice done. Hugh groans about Ellie's impetuousness but he trusts her and listens when she tells him things. They're on the way to becoming great partners. I did not appreciate Hugh's "great man!" comment. That was out of character for a policeman. As always Gladstone and Tompkins are on hand to charm and lighten the mood. They're oh so adorable! How can anyone not smile at their antics?

Lady Chadwick is a mere acquaintance of Ellie's. Not even that as they only met once at a charity luncheon. Lady Chadwick has heard of Ellie's unconventionality and how she's solved a couple of crimes. Lady Chadwick is not hoity-toity but rather distracted and flighty. She never quite comes out and states what she wants or means. She's evasive in her answers and may even be flat out lying. I think she's lying big time. Reading between the lines, I think her necklace got lost when she went up to her room with her lover and he took the necklace off and put it down somewhere. I also think her husband wants it reevaluated not for insurance purposes but to sell. They seem to be short of funds. He can't sell it if it's already fake and I suspect it is OR Lady Chadwick is about to pawn it or have it faked. She states her husband treats her like a child. She isn't allowed any independence. She fears the butler is spying on her on Sir Reginald Chadwick's behalf and she feels intense pressure to look a certain way and be a certain way for her husband. She ignores her children except to be tough on them when she does notice them. At least at first. Her husband sounds like a monster! Lady Chadwick describes his temper, being fearful of him, how controlling he is. Yikes lady! It's the 1920s. Is abuse still legal? I feel sorry for her because she can't really divorce him. She has no money and nowhere to go. Yet she isn't entirely honest with Ellie and may be hiding things even when a second murder occurs.

The children are charming. They're close in age and almost like twins. Octavia is almost 8 and she's very sweet. Herbert, at 7, is still a little boy trying to be a man. I'm not sure why he's not in school yet but there's a hint that he is struggling with multiplication so perhaps home schooling works better for him - if they can keep a governess. No one really knows why the previous governess left.

Sir Reginald Chadwick is confusing. When he shows up in the story, Ellie sees him as cold and is scared of him at first but when the second murder happens in his home, he doesn't seem guilty. He seems surprised and confused, even willing to call the police. I don't get the impression he killed the second person. He may just be a bully. He's a government man so he may have secrets and be a good actor. He's a complicated person.

The Chadwick servants are pretty awful. The butler, MISTER Withers acts all high in the instep. His formality is worse than Clifford's, yet, he snoops, spies and eavesdrops. Is he spying on Lady Chadwick for Sir Reginald, or is he up to no good? He's up to something I'd say, maybe both for Sir Reginald and for himself. Is he an accomplice in the rash of thefts in the neighborhood lately? What if he stole Lady Chadwick's necklace? Lady C's maid, Grace, was in the room when Lady C. locked the necklace in the drawer. Servants aren't dumb. I doubt she stole the necklace. It would not only be the end of her career, it would be the end of her life! Yet Ellie notes signs Grace has had a really hard life and is more careworn than a young woman her age should be. Perhaps she did steal the necklace because she was desperate. Mrs. Hawkins, the housekeeper, rules the servants with an iron fist. She is not friendly, warm or welcoming to Ellie or anyone else. She does seem to be fond of Withers. Cut from the same cloth, I expect. She may be a little mentally unstable and some signs point to her possibly having a darker side. (Cue subplot borrowed from Downton Abbey.)

Tateham, the footman, is cheeky and tries to flirt with Ellie. He's also flirting with a maid so I don't find him trustworthy. He hasn't been there very long yet he expects to advance in his career quickly. He may have dirt on Withers and plans to oust the butler so he can have the position. It doesn't quite work that way now does it? He has to work long and hard and earn the Chadwicks' trust first. He seems an impatient young man. He says he needs money quickly so possibly he's in trouble of some sort. I don't think he's ever going to make butler!

The stereotypes of the female servants bothered me. Of course the cook, Mrs. Rudge, is short and puddingish with round cheeks. Hannah, the head housemaid, has curves and acts saucy. She's self-aware and probably would sleep her way to the top if she had the opportunity. Alice, the other maid, has a sweet, round face to go with her sweet personality and big heart. She also has a "dumping-shaped" body so Verity Bright be prepared for accusations of fat shaming and some negative reviews. Alice doesn't sound educated at all and is probably quite young. She has a lot of duties as assigned and no one has any empathy for her situation. I like her a lot and I think Ellie likes her but Alice reveals something to Ellie that causes Ellie to make a snap judgment and act impetuously. She could have gotten Alice into a lot of trouble and gotten herself, Clifford and Hugh killed.

John Clemthorpe, the murder victim, didn't deserve to be murdered. He deserved another fate for sure but I don't want to spoil the plot by saying much. He was a government employee in the same department as Chadwick. The body disappeared and the government is hushing up the scandal. Is Clemthorpe's murder a government conspiracy? Was he a victim of political intrigue? Ellie runs afoul of a man in colorful robes early on at the fair. He also got Hugh into trouble with the ambassador and was chasing a child menacingly. The man is spotted lurking at the fair around the closed pavilion where Clemthorpe was shot. Is this man involved in some way? He's a nasty sort I wouldn't want to cross. I'm sure he's involved in the murder somehow. YET I do have some sympathy for him. The hard-nosed Englishman is also a villain. What is he up to and what does he want with Lady Chadwick? There's something shady going on in the Chadwick household and also at the closed pavilion at the Exhibition. All these men must be involved in something, somehow that links the two crimes.

One last new character late in the book is Kofi Oppong, a boy from the Gold Coast. He is educated and longs to further his education so he can help his people. Kofi is an orphan placed in the care of a guardian who doesn't care about Kofi and apprenticed the boy to a bad man. Kofi's story reminds me of David's in the Amelia Peabody series. Kofi takes the place of the urchins Ellie abandoned after the first book! He's funny and quite a charming little lad. Kofi proves Clifford loves children and is great with them. Ellie knew that but Clifford tries to pretend he's a stern, stuffy old man.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and can't wait to see what Ellie and Co. get up to next. Will she and Hugh ever walk down the aisle?

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

As far as I know it's the first instalment in this series that I didn't read for a blog tour and I was happy to read it just for fun.
Because it was a lot of fun as Eleanor, Clifford and the rest of the characters are at their best and Eleanor is investigating while undercover as a governess.
As entertaining and compelling as usual, a solid mystery that kept me turning pages and guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Lady Tea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.8 / 5

*releases a deep, satisfied breath* Mmmm--ahhh! FINALLY! A new book in the Eleanor Swift series that seems like a return to form!

After what have been a few admitted upsets with the more recent releases of this series last year--the most recent of which, from this year, was actually quite a disappointment, almost at the bottom of my list--it's natural to have approached this new addition with...well, a bit of trepidation, to say the least. But, oh-so-thankfully, it seems that having Eleanor back in England is really paying off!

Taking place during the historic British Empire Exposition of the 1920s, inimitable Lady Eleanor Swift and her butler Clifford find themselves once more in the middle of...well, quite a muddle of things. Eleanor actually witnesses the murder happening this time, but because she's way up high in a hot air balloon when she does, she can't exactly help matters--or, as it turns out, even be believed by most people that the murder happened at all! Add to this a strange request from a sort-of acquaintance for Eleanor to investigate the theft of a valuable pearl necklace, and you've got the usual "here we go agains!" to look forward to.

Now, in terms of what I liked about this, I think that the number one thing I appreciated was its charm: both in the characters, setting, and general atmosphere of everything, it carries the usual charm that I very much expect and appreciate from this series. Eleanor and Clifford were both true to form, the side characters likewise delightful; and, of course, Masters Gladstone and Tomkins do their share as well!

As usual, it's easier to just list my pluses, so here we go:

+ the exposition itself, which until now I hadn't ever heard of. Putting aside the fact that it's a blatant last defense of colonialism for the time, I imagine that it would have been quite a marvel to see, sort of like a 20th century version of the Crystal Palace (which WAS still around at that time, btw, but regardless)
+ the romance between Seldon and Eleanor, which is still progressing at a snail's pace (and, quite frankly, I don't know why, and am beginning to wonder if Clifford's ever going to get a chance to walk Eleanor down the aisle; but, on the other hand, I'm not exactly in a hurry for it to happen to anything because, believe it or not, it's Clifford's and Eleanor's relationship that is at the heart of this series, such that Eleanor's romantic relationship, though a great addition, is not the main focus, and therefore not as imperative for the enjoyment of the plot)
+ the ladies' usual antics (seriously, what was Mrs. Trotman's "favourite part" of the exposition, I wonder? *wink wink*)
+ Eleanor as a governess and how she's totally NOT insubordinate, lol
+ the secrecy around the necklace theft and how it's covered up by lie after lie after lie. I'll confess that I had NO IDEA what the connection between the necklace and the murder was, but the author weaves as twisty and turny a tale as always, which I love and appreciated!
+ Kofi. He's a great kid and it was so touching to see Clifford really looking out for him. It's not very often that we see a more personal, softer side of Clifford outside of his teasing Eleanor and loyalty to her, so it was quite lovely! Also, Kofi himself is just a great addition to the gang, and I'm super happy for how his ending works out!
+ Clifford flirting with...basically a slatterny woman on the lower east end of London. Just...lol, I LOVED that little scene and how Clifford can literally charm any female, be she noble or cockney--well done, you wily old fox, you!
+ also, a minor detail, but I think it's cool how they were deciding how to modernize Henley Hall--gave me remembrances of stuff from Downton Abbey, and how manor houses around this time needed to start to change in order to keep up with the times
+ the stakes as well, which DO end up involving Eleanor personally by the end, and so everything felt well-warranted and appropriately important

Soo...yeah, all in all, only things to like, and a welcome relief of what little trepidations I may have had in wondering about this series previously. If I had to be nitpicky, the ONLY thing I kind of disliked was the amount of times that Seldon kept saying "blast it". It felt like it was relegated as his catchphrase or something in this book, which I felt was untrue to his character, as I'm pretty sure he only said it when it was legitimately frustrated in the past, not as an offhand comment that he sometimes makes in this book. A minor thing, to be sure, but maybe something to watch out for, eh, author?

Ahem, that being said, I think I should rank this along with the other books now, as it well-warranted. (Oh, AND look forward to the next book in the series, which I see will take us to exotic Egypt, which I WANT, and also greets us with another gorgeous cover. I look forward to it!)

My Updated Ranking of the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries

1. Death on a Winter's Day (Book 8)
2. Mystery by the Sea (Book 5)
3. A Very English Murder (Book 1)
4. Death Down the Aisle (Book 11)
5. A Witness to Murder (Book 3)
6. Murder at the Fair (Book 6)
7. Death on Deck (Book 13)
8. The French for Murder (Book 10)
9. Murder in an Irish Castle (Book 12)
10. Murder in Mayfair (Book 18)
11. Murder in the Snow (Book 4)
12. Death at the Dance (Book 2)
13. Murder on the Cornish Cliffs (Book 16)
14. Murder in Manhattan (Book 14)
15. A Royal Murder (Book 9)
16. Murder by Invitation (Book 15)
17. A Death in Venice (Book 17)
18. A Lesson in Murder (Book 7)

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this 18th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series, Lady Eleanor (Ellie), her butler Clifford and the ladies are visiting the British Empire Exhibition to see all the sights of the colonial world. Ellie is one of the lucky ones that get the opportunity to go up in a hot air balloon. While in the air, she witnesses a person being shot in one of the exhibition areas that is presently closed (Gold Coast/Ghana). With a daring escape from the balloon, when she gets to the scene of the murder, there is no body, nor evidence that a crime was committed. Clifford and Hugh believe her, so the investigation begins. While staying at the Ritz, Ellie is approached by a woman she doesn't know, Lady Chadwick. She claims a pearl necklace has been stolen and asks for Ellie's help. She has to pretend to be a governess to two children, which is something she has no idea about. She is shocked by the back biting and issues at Chadwick House. Will she find the answers to the two mysteries? Are they connected?

Once again, Verity Bright has penned an enjoyable cozy mystery with great characters. I love Ellie's character. She is flamboyant, smart, independent, a great employer, and takes chances to find the answers to crimes and mysteries. Clifford is a great second to her and I love the humorous banter between the two. He is always there to help when needed and I enjoy his many talents. The ladies (Lady Eleanor's staff) have been out and about in the last couple of books and I do enjoy seeing them involved in things. I looked up the British Expedition and enjoyed reading a bit about it, I love that the events of the times are included in these books. As always, her fur babies, Gladstone and Tompkins are on hand to lighten the mood. I always smile at their antics. We do meet a mystery man, who gives us some information about her uncle and "his man", Clifford which gave us some insight into their relationship. There is a twist in this one that I wasn't expecting and it took the ending off in a direction that was surprising to me. Overall, this was another great Lady Eleanor Swift mystery that I enjoyed.

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

London is abuzz with excitement as the British Empire Exhibition opens in Wembley in the spring of 1924. Lady Eleanor Swift, her butler, Clifford, and the four ladies who make up her beloved staff are soon enjoying exhibits from all across the globe. Having always been an intrepid traveller, Eleanor is very keen to take a trip aboard a tethered hot air balloon, enabling her to see everything from above, including, to her horror, a murder!

After being waylaid by a recent acquaintance, Eleanor agrees to go undercover in Mayfair as governess to two young children while looking for the person responsible for the theft of a priceless pearl necklace. Desperate to also discover the killer’s identity she, Clifford, and her fiance, Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon, find themselves working tirelessly to capture the killer, but danger is never far away and they need to identify those responsible before its too late for all of them.

Having been a little disappointed in the previous book in such a wonderful series, I was a tad anxious as I began this, but needn't have been; I loved every word. The exhibition was described in such a way that it was easy to picture Eleanor and her staff's excitement and the dangers of the investigations, which were quite complicated but never muddled. As is usual with this series, it was a pleasure to read.

I received an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressedare my own. I love reading about Lady Eleanor Swift, her staff, and their adventures. Long may they continue. Recommended.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether it is theft, murder, or anything else done illegally, if Lady Eleanor Swift is nearby, she does her best to solve whatever crime there is. After a dodgy and dangerous hot balloon ride, Eleanor’s old friend Lady Philomena Chadwick asks her to discreetly try to determine who among her staff could be responsible for stealing her precious pearl necklace. They decide that Eleanor will act as governess in the household so that she will be free to move about and discover who stole the missing necklace.

With Eleanor being more than adept at solving crimes, she usually has her very capable butler Clifford right by her side to assist her. Her fiancé Detective Hugh Seldon is usually in close proximity as well. But, for this quest, Eleanor will be in the household alone for the most part. Never fear, however, as both Clifford and Hugh find clever ways to be present while Eleanor makes her searh for the necklace.

With Hugh on a case of his own that just might be related to what Eleanor is investigating, their paths cross frequently. I must say that this part of the stories is just so sweet. I love Eleanor’s growing relationship with Hugh, but I also love the special bond that Eleanor has with the ever-proper Clifford. And, don’t worry, Eleanor’s loveable bulldog Gladstone has his moments in this delightful addition to Verity Bright’s thoroughly engaging story.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Luanne Ollivier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rainy days call for a cuddle up on the couch, with a quilt on your lap, a pot of tea and, a faithful dog. And .... a cosy mystery!

I chose Murder in Mayfair by Verity Bright. Bright is a new to me author. This is Book 18 in the Lady Eleanor Swift series.

The books are set in the 1920's - a time that I quite enjoy. Lady Eleanor Swift is excited to be going on a hot air balloon ride, looking down at London. But instead, she witnesses a crime taking place below! And what she does next is unexpected, but I knew this was going to be a character I'd enjoy! Her beloved butler Clifford, tries to run interference for her. As does her fiancée - Detective Hugh Seldon. I quite like all three recurring characters. The banter between the three is fun to read. Back stories are alluded to, but I easily picked up on what has gone before.

The plot is also well written, and well presented, giving the reader time to count down to the final whodunit. Another crime runs parallel to the first. Could the two be connected?

I quite enjoyed this tale. I'll be adding Verity Bright and Lady Swift to my list of cosy mysteries.

[Bargain Sleuth Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Since discovering the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries on volume 12, I have explored the previous books as well as eagerly anticipated each new release. They remind me of a grown-up British Nancy Drew, evoking the hallmarks of those early 1930's books. Murder in Mayfair might be the best book in the series. With plenty of historical research into the British Empire Exhibition in 1924 and life in England in the 1920s in general, the attention to detail by Verity Bright is always commendable. Much like a Nancy Drew mystery, there are two different mysteries going on, and as the book progresses, there may be a connection.

With a supporting cast that is utterly charming, Eleanor really shines in this novel. While this is part of a series, each book is written as a standalone, so one does not necessarily have to have read the whole catalogue to enjoy this Golden Age cozy mystery. Highly recommend!

[Linniegayl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another delightful entry in the Lady Eleanor historical mystery series. This time Ellie and Clifford (her butler) are in London to attend a grand exhibit. But of course, they're quickly embroiled in a murder. Ellie's other staff play only a minor role, but we're introduced to some new characters who were great.

I found the mystery interesting, and look forward to the next in the series which apparently takes place in Egypt!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listened to audiobook

[Keely · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a review about the series as a whole, rather than a specific book review about each book.


I am enjoying this series somewhat. I do find somethings rather frustrating at times, but overall, I like how things are developing through the whole series and I do want answers to certain questions that still have to be answered. It's a pleasant, not taxing on brain way to spend a couple of hours.

Eleanor. Right. She does not read as a 28 something woman, who eventually hits her 30's as the series progresses. Her character background doesn't fit the character we are presented with. I know she has been somewhat spoiled and is pampered, but she reads as a teenager to me, especially as all her exploring should've made her more mature. She has been travelling the world for 10 years alone. I repeat, travelling alone as a woman in the 1920's. That wouldn't have been easy and you'd need your wits about you. It's not like she's been locked in a manor for 15 years and is finally being released into the world alas Rapunzel. I also find her general horniness, both hilarious and frustrating, especially when she's falling for people she's just met and having romancey moments at the most worst times when she should be focusing on something much more serious. Though I do know it's part of her character that she falls hard over nothing and has a habit of rushing into romances with people she barely knows. She knows this about herself, yet does it anyway, she never really grows in this respect througout the story. I also didn't like that she turned into blushing, awkward giggling girl around males she finds attractive. It's stereotypical and once again, it's reminisce of a teenager. You'd think at 28, you can be around an attractive male and be fine. Most woman I know can. She just doesn't come across as a 28-30 year woman to me. I do sigh when she's like a bull in a china shop where a delicate hand was needed. She sometimes makes life hard for herself though once again, I know that's one huge part of her character traits, but she can come across quite rude at times. But I don't dislike her and I don't mind having her as the main character, I do wish we would have some more character growth within the story though.

Also, I know talk of food is a somewhat part of the cozy genre, but it gets tiring that Eleanor eats six heavily calorie meals a day, yet always keeps her figure. It's unrealistic and is a pet peeve of mine, as it's a mythical dream that is used as a stick to beat woman with when they can't achieve it.

I really like Clifford (despite the grating chivalry misogyny and being all proper which can get tiring. And I dislike how he's always reminding the ladies that because Eleanor has a title, that means she's better, worth more and special than them. All people are equal on the whole. A title doesn't mean much in this day and age. I know it's somewhat suitable/normal for the time period, but I think the authors can easily not focus and push this specific idea as much as they do. I know Clifford truly believes that she's better but it's getting old, especially when he pushes it on the staff several times a book.) and the rest of the staff though Clifford should be a bit easier on them, haha. I mean, they're doing several peoples worth of work a day by themselves. And one of them is 15 and started working at 11. (Imagine having an 11 year old as a maid/cleaner/everything else.) Dude doesn't know how to relax and chill. And Gladstone is my favourite. He's a cutie and I love his addition to the story. He makes a cute, fun aspect to the books with his charming personality of constantly stealing shoes and his penchant for digging.

Also, Polly started working at the manor at 11. In 1918, you had to stay in school until you were 14! so what's with that?!? Breaks the immersion. I don't understand why they couldn't have her at like 17? It would change nothing. She can still be a clumsy, young, silly girl at 17. You wouldn't have to change a thing about her character as it was written. I don't understand why the author chose her to come to the manor at 11, and be 15 within the stories narrative. Also, within the books I've read (13 as I type this sentence), we've had 2 Eleanor's birthdays, but Polly still has remained 15 somehow?

General Discussions about the series as a whole, including my thoughts on Hugh so probable minor spoilers;



While I think Hugh is a step up from the other guy (He had no substance and was always about just having a good time), I can't help but feel that he wants to change Eleanor, rather than accept her as she is. I know it's partly down the classic chivalry misogyny of the time period, but it is frustrating. He just needs to accept that she won't stand for injustice and stop ordering her about. For her to be like "Someone has been murdered. Oh well, not my problem." is asking her to be someone else. I know he worries about her safety, but that is in Eleanor's control, rather than his. Also, Eleanor has been right on the mark about murders happening. He says no. She says yes. She is proved right. It has happened what like seven times? I can accept that after the first or second one, he might still disregard her opinion. But after the third one, he still does it. Which I don't get. He should trust her instincts as she has yet to be proved wrong, unlike Hugh. She has proved him wrong every single book when he's declared "natural causes" yet he still doesn't trust her instincts and knowledge. Infact, Hugh should trust Eleanor opinion more than his own, considering he's been wrong on the mark so many times. It makes him come across as an idiot when he dismisses Eleanor so easily, especially as the reader knows he is in the wrong. So as a reader, I find that aspect frustrating as it feels like time wasting as we know Eleanor is right and doesn't make me warm to him. As we know Eleanor is right, he kinda comes across as incompetent when he could help but chooses not to do so. It's acceptable when higher ups are blocking him etc, but not when he's not helping due to free will. So I find that aspect really frustrating. And despite me reading 10 books with the character, we still know very little about him as a whole. So I hope the future books will stop him having a moan every book about Eleanor choosing to find answers to a murder as it's getting old. I want him to accept Eleanor as she is, she won't let things go when she could help and he needs to accept that. The chivalry disguised as misogyny is getting old and not making me like him all that much, and I believe as a reader, I'm supposed to do so, as I think he's the main romance aspect of this series. I can't see Eleanor swerving back to Lance and unless a new guy moves to the village, we don't have many other romance options. Also, it's hypocritical that he spends most of his time at work, so justice is important to him, yet he can't accept that justice and answers is just as important to Eleanor. It's one of the things they have in common. I am also getting so tired about the locking her in the house/Clifford control this woman!!! jokes, or should I say, jokey half truths, cause if he had no "chivalry", Eleanor would be tied to a chair in the library. I was going to say oven or something generic like that, but we know Eleanor isn't going to make a single meal in these books and why should she.

UPDATE SINCE THE ENGAGEMENT: Hugh has stopped acting such a twat since the engagement which I appreciate and has become a lot more tolerable, even though I still think he's an idiot. He's still on thin ice though.

Though his calviliar attitude towards Joseph being murdered in previous books as a proof of punitive justice was a bit twatish and cruel. I felt it was a very shrug of shoulders, even though he wanted to help, there was no emergency to it. Especially as it's part of his fault that Joseph ran. Also, come on, I have no real bad blood towards the Royals, but their attitude towards people who want "Republic" was way too dramatic, though it may be just because of the time period.


I didn't like Lance, he was shallow, vapid and had no real substance so I was glad he was binned off as a romance option quite quickly. He was more childish than Eleanor. He has no respect for anyone. And is very dismissive to the things that matter to Eleanor.

Also, it gets a bit boring when everyone fancies the main character. It's just a small annoying tidbit.

And it is a bit tiring when everyone else is either an serious idiot or is being evil for no reason. Like come on!

Also, I understand why the author keeps the staff at the manor down to 6-7 people as it would be hard to have 30 staff members popping up and being background characters. It allows the 6-7 staff to have their own personality without overwhelming. But I can't help think they must work to the bone, as it impossible they could do everything they do. There is no way that 6-7 people can keep a 40 something room manor clean, make food, do all chores, helping their lady etc. There are two, then three, ladies whose job it is to clean and help Eleanor amongst other jobs, no way two people can keep a manor in pristine condition. And Eleanor makes their life harder and easier at the same time, she'll buy them a vaccum but she won't keep her clothes tidy, thus making them clean up her twenty outfits that she's tried on and discarded on the floor. And I know it's stated that Eleanor offers more staff and they turn her down. But that's just silly. I mean, average people in a 3 bed can easily get behind with chores, especially with those tasks that should be done every month, but end up being done every three, e.g. spring cleaning, the fridge, cleaning the skirting boards, taking everything out of the cabinet and dusting/washing it all. But they simply could not realistically keep this manor to high standards, they would legit never be able to sleep. But I can let go and accept this part is pure fantasy. But Imagine watching an 11 year old work each day! Cleaning your banisters, dropping your tray, doing the stuff you could easily do yourself etc. It would be weird. The girl is meant to be at school! In 1918, it was compulsory to stay in school till 14. Obviously probably didn't always happen that way and not everyone followed it, but the law exists within this time period.





FOR READERS AFTER BOOK 13;

okay. I've decided to give Hugh another chance even though I dislike him, after the big old proposal. We'll see if he's actually accepted Eleanor or not.

[Gail Gassen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely intriguing!

This is an absolutely amazing book with so many ups downs ins & outs you have to stay on top of it to not loose your place in the goings on of what's going on!! It's that intricate & intriguing! Another person introduced from the past of Lady Swifts Uncles past comes onto the scene thank you Clifford! That's all I've got to say there but that's not the only new comer. Those fantastic ladies will be the death of Clifford if he's not careful in how they get under his skin. I'm thinking he really takes to it most heartily! He cares a great deal for those wonderful ladies & thier hearts as big as the well the moon or sun! They'd do anything for Lady Swift as she would for them, & the same for Clifford they care so much for him. Except with him, he's in the position of being the boss to them so they may care for him unrevokably they respect him with a higher bar than they set for any other person besides the King or Queen. I'm not sure who's the ruling king during all this time. I'll have to look that up unless someone wants to help me with it. I'm sure it's been mentioned in one of these books. As I was saying tho the ladies have nothing but the highest respect for Clifford. Gosh now what do they call him!! ?? I know that Ellie is Lady Swift, or herself maybe? But they absolutely love her beyond measure! In this book the "ladies" are only in the first of the book so don't read this part of the review okay!? After a crazy hot air balloon ride that only Lady Swift could take things go south for her! Literally! She see a crime & it's a bad one sees the one who killed the other & by Golly being in a hot air balloon won't stop her from going to the aide of the person that was injured, and she did! So off she goes & I can't say any more because it all goes back to that moment she climbed out of the basket to go down the rope. This is Lady Swift here not a wilting petunia!! Don't forget how she started out with her parents on their yacht. Oh did I tell you who's in charge of this pavilion of all kinds of different countries? That's where the whole group is visiting when the hot air balloon came into the story. Anyway the gentleman in charge of all the fair grounds I guess they're called is none other than dreamboat himself Selden! Nothing turns out good for him in this book at all once Elinor get to the place where a corps should be! She crawled over the gate to get there even & goodness I'm giving it all away so don't read anymore! You be on the edge of your seat tho the rest of the way. Clifford sends the Ladies home but they don't follow. The rest is a total muck up with Lady Swift trying to help a friend that turnd out to be not such a good friend. More people die & there you have another awesome, amazing Lady Elinore Swift & Clifford mystery with the dog & the cat! I love Gladstone not so sure about Tomkins. They are both a couple of scalywags as L. Swift would say! I hope you enjoy one of the best books I've read so far in this series except im guilty of saying that more than once. This one is a real puzzle that even I couldn't make out & that's weird! 👌🏻 good luck picking out the killer it stumped me till the end & there's more I won't say! England sure had allot of secret spy stuff going on during that time of the WWII or is this afterwards? 🤔 Enjoy its so worth it!

[CPE · Rating 4 out of 5]

Verity Bright’s Murder in Mayfair is the eighteenth book in her Lady Eleanor Swift series. The 1924 British Empire Exhibition is in full swing at Wembley and Ellie takes a balloon ride above it, from which she sees a man being shot. However, as always in such books, the body has disappeared by the time she returns to the scene. Another plot strand involves Ellie joining an upper-class household as governess in order to investigate the theft of a necklace.

I always enjoy Verity Bright’s novels with the witty banter between Ellie and her butler, Clifford and the rustic chorus of her female staff. Ellie also rescues a young Ghanian lad, Kofi, from his horrible guardian. It’s funny and heartwarming to watch Kofi emulating Clifford’s solemnity. However, I admit to getting confused with this one. Ellie’s acquaintance, Lady Chadwick, tells Ellie that her necklace has been stolen and persuades Ellie to pose as a temporary governess in the Chadwick household and find out which member of staff took it. The few episodes where Ellie really does tutor the children are delightful. However, Lady Chadwick fails to tell Ellie the whole truth. That’s fine, it’s essential to the plot and is quite believable; but, by the time we got to the denouement, I was quite bewildered as who was supposed to have done what.

There is one howler in the review copy that I do hope is remedied for the final published version. Ellie and team hop on a boat at Westminster Pier and are told they need to visit Rotten Row, so they take the boat to St Katherine’s Dock. However, the Rotten Row that we all know is (and always has been) a track along which horses are exercised in Hyde Park, due west of Westminster Pier; and St Katherine’s Dock is well to the east. While the author may claim they have discovered a long-gone street in the East End, also called Rotten Row, I’m afraid everyone will think of the Hyde Park bridleway and think, “Well, that’s wrong!”. The author really, really, needs to use a different street name.

On the whole, this is another highly enjoyable whodunnit. There is comment upon the social mores of the time, but it’s not done in a lecturing manner. As always, there is a section at the end, explaining the historic context of various aspects, such as the Never-Stop Railway at the Empire Exhibition. I’d never heard of this before, but have now spent several minutes watching 100-year old film clips on Youtube. Thank you, Verity Bright, for the gentle history lesson – I always learn something from your books, as well as enjoying the mystery!

#MurderinMayfair #NetGalley

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y’all know I love me a Lady Eleanor Swift mystery. I do believe this is the best one yet! Here Eleanor, Clifford, and the ladies are in London to visit the British Empire Expedition. Eleanor is looking forward to a hot air balloon ride as part of the excursion. She gets more than she bargained for, thought, when she sees what appears to be a murder taking place in one of the exhibit areas as the balloon passes over it.

Once she’s back on the ground, though, she finds the exhibit area closed and locked up. When she manages to get in, there’s no dead body, no sign that anything untoward occurred. But Ellie knows what she saw. When she runs into Lady Chadwick, an acquaintance, at teatime, she agrees to take a temporary role on Lady Chadwick’s household staff to investigate the apparent theft of a pearl necklace. She digs up lots of dirt, but what does any of it have to do with the necklace? And when Lady Chadwick’s butler is murdered, too, Ellie wonders if and how it connects to what she knows she saw at the exhibition.

There is so much to love in this book. As always, Ellie includes her ladies in the fun and shenanigans. They aren’t just staff to her, they’re family. The distinction between how she relates to her staff and how many others do is highlighted when Ellie goes undercover at the Chadwicks’. Clifford finds a way to stay involved when Ellie is working at the Chadwicks’, even getting Gladstone and Tomkins in on the fun. And of course we get to see Hugh in this one. Huzzah!

In fact, Hugh is the one who finds himself in danger in this one – not physical danger, but in harm’s way all the same. Against the direction of his higher-ups, Hugh helps Ellie and Clifford investigate the murder at the exhibition. And when the official heat comes down, Hugh is the one who takes it, to protect the others.

So why is Lady Chadwick being disingenuous with Ellie? How are the two deaths connected? Will Hugh lose his job? Verity Bright answers all these questions and more as the story unfolds. We also get to meet an apparent new member of the team, and I think he’ll be a fine addition. I hope we see more of him in future stories.

If you love a good cozy that doesn’t give away the ending too soon, that’s full of humor and camaraderie and enough tension to keep the pages turning, get to know Lady Eleanor and the gang. Perfect for summer reading, or anytime you’re in the mood for a delightful story!

Disclaimer: Thank you to Bookouture for a review copy of the book. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder in Mayfair" in exchange for my honest review.

This is the 18th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series and it's just as exciting as the first book was. The stories and characters have been developing through the series and the reader feels like they are friends or family as we peek in on their lives through the various adventures they have.

Ellie and Clifford are visiting the British Empire Exhibition in London. Lady Chadwick rushes over to great Ellie but then is almost reluctant to speak to her.

Though they play small roles in this story Mrs. Butter - the housekeeper, Mrs. Trotman - the cook and the maids Polly and Lizzie also visit the Exhibition. As they return to Henley Hall, Clifford and Ellie stay on to search for Lady Chadwick's stolen pearl necklace before her husband finds out it's missing. She insists that a member of her staff stole it and wants Ellie to arrive at Chadwick House as the new governess.

When Ellie decides to take look at a hot air balloon, what could go wrong? Rampaging elephants send the balloon on an unscheduled flight and Ellies sees someone get shot...when she finally gets out of the balloon (which was absolutely brilliant), there is no body to be found.

Chief Inspector Seldon is the head of security for the Empire Exhibition and is also Ellie's fiancé. He can't find a body, there is no one in the hospitals who had been wounded, no one in the morgue. No one believes what she saw, even when they find a bullet.

Mr. Withers the butler treats Ellie with contempt. The staff are constantly bickering and Withers spends his time informing Lord Chadwick when his wife leaves the house late at night when he isn't around.

We learn that the dead man was John Clemthorpe but why is there a cover-up? Who shot him and why? Then there is another body, that they were trying ingeniously to hide in the dumbwaiter.

The story of when the necklace was actually stolen gets more and more confusing - was it stolen during Lady Chadwick's latest soiree or when Withers was killed? The pieces of the puzzle all come together in the end. Ellie meets the mysterious Lord X who owes a favour to her late uncle.

Ellie promises more ladylike behaviour but how long will that last? Ellie is perfect just the way she is.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift finds herself having another perplexing mystery to solve in the latest nail-biting crime caper from Verity Bright’s hugely talented pen.

Eleanor is counting down the days until her trip to London where she has planned a hot air balloon ride that will allow her to take in all the sights. Only, Eleanor never expected that she would end up witnessing a murder! The sight of a man shooting someone dead stops her in her tracks, but when she gets back on terra firm she finds neither hide nor hair of the killer – only the broken piece of a pink pearl necklace clasp trod into the ground. Eleanor is not sure if she can handle any more excitement – until she meets her old friend Lady Chadwick for tea who confides in her that her pink pearl necklace has gone missing – the very same one Eleanor had spotted at the crime scene!

Unable to leave this mystery unsolved, Eleanor comes up with a plan: she will impersonate a governess and go undercover at the Chadwick mansion in Mayfair. As she wins over the staff, she quickly uncovers a hotbed of scandal, secrets and deception, but could her fellow servants help Eleanor get closer to uncovering the truth and find the murderer who is still on the loose?

With Eleanor’s beau, Detective Hugh Seldon, brought in to investigate the spate of robberies in Park Lane, she begins to wonder whether the perpetrator she seeks is hiding in plain sight. However, she must tread carefully because the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she gets to danger and with someone watching her every move, this might just end up being the last case Eleanor will ever investigate.

A new Lady Eleanor Swift mystery is always a major cause of celebration for me and Murder in Mayfair is another brilliant page-turner by Verity Bright I devoured in a matter of hours. Fast-paced, stylish, unpredictable and packed with humour and charm, Murder in Mayfair is a dazzling whodunnit that kept me on the edge of my seat and guessing till the very last page.

Whether Murder in Mayfair is your first Lady Eleanor Swift mystery or you are a long-time devotee, one thing is for certain: Verity Bright never disappoints and I cannot wait for her next book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Yvonne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Eleanor Swift (Ellie) treats her indoor staff (including pets) to a day out at the British Empire Exhibition. While in a hot air balloon drifting over one of the compounds, Ellie sees a man shot, but by the time she makes her dramatic descent from the balloon, there is no evidence of a body or anything to suggest a crime has been committed. Ellie's fiancé, Detective Inspector Hugh Seldon, is on the scene as head of security for the exhibition and although he and Clifford, Ellie's butler, have doubts, they do not dismiss Ellie's claims entirely.

True to form, Ellie cannot let matters rest and decides to investigate, once again involving Clifford and Hugh. Their subsequent visits to the compound, after having been warned to stay away, cause trouble for Hugh, who faces disciplinary action as a result.

Circumstances take an odd turn for Ellie when she is approached by Lady Chadwick, a woman she hardly knows, and pressured to investigate a stolen necklace. Lady Chadwick believes one of her staff is the culprit. With misgivings, Ellie moves into Chadwick House and assumes the role of governess to the Chadwick children, enlivening their lessons and making two new friends. On the other hand, garnering information from the staff is much harder than expected as, unlike her own household, the Chadwick one is not very friendly and treat her with suspicion.

Despairing that she will never solve the case after uncovering a number of lies, a crucial piece of evidence surfaces linking the missing necklace to the restricted compound. The race is then on to unmask a murderer, avoid a scandal, prevent another crime and save Hugh's career.

This is another fun-filled instalment of this delightful series. It opens with a dramatic hot air balloon flight and ends with an equally hair-raising confrontation. The bits in between are filled with historical facts (some provided by Clifford), entertaining banter, some lovely moments between Ellie and Hugh, the presence of the cheery and irrepressible female staff of Henley Hall, clandestine meetings in Whitehall and the introduction of a new character, who has already proved to be a great source of entertainment.




*https://adarngoodread.blogspot.com

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Verity Bright for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder in Mayfair coming out June 27, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Lady Eleanor Swift has been eagerly awaiting her trip in a hot air balloon to take in London’s amazing sights. But what she witnesses instead is a murder! From way up high she sees man in a dark coat shoot another man dead, but by the time she arrives back on the ground, Eleanor can find no trace of the body. Just the broken piece of a pearl necklace clasp, trodden into the dirt.

Back at The Ritz hotel, over afternoon tea, Eleanor’s old friend Lady Philomena Chadwick confides in her about a scandalous theft. Lady Chadwick is certain someone on her staff has stolen her priceless pink pearl necklace. Eleanor is immediately suspicious when the description matches the jewellery she spotted at the crime scene.

Much to her butler Clifford’s amusement, Eleanor goes undercover as a governess in the Chadwick’s sparkling Mayfair mansion. As she sets about questioning the disgruntled staff, she uncovers a treasure trove of gossip. But how do a secret love affair, a flirty footman with a fondness for spying, and a housemaid hiding a nightly visitor connect to the murder?

And when Eleanor’s beau, Detective Hugh Seldon, is brought in to investigate a string of further robberies in Park Lane, Eleanor is certain that Chadwick House is hiding the unlikeliest gang of jewel thieves below stairs…

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but will this necklace get Eleanor killed before she uncovers the hidden gem she needs to crack the case?

This is the second book I’ve read in the series. I definitely own most of them and I need to read them. I loved that this was set in Mayfair. I have a few books with Mayfair in the title. I love Eleanor’s character. I think she’s intelligent and strong. There was definitely a lot of action in this one. I love that she’s able to travel and have adventures. I’m definitely excited for future books!

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

[Jan Mawdesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her eighteenth Murder Mystery, Murder in Mayfair, Lady Eleanor (Ellie) Swift finds herself in somewhat of a dilemma as she has witnessed a murder, become a Governess and involved the love her life, the incredibly handsome Hugh Seldon, her fiancé, in a compromising situation, and it is only day two of a visit to London to witness the wondrous Exhibition being held at Wembley.
After a runaway hot air balloon flight where she witnessed a murder, she is once again back on the ground, after abseiling down to see if the man that was shot could be helped. She is accosted by Lady Philomena Chadwick, a slight acquaintance who invites her to tea at the Ritz Hotel the next afternoon.
She is implored to take on the task of finding Lady Chadwick’s pearl necklace, stolen according to Lady Philomena, by her staff. Much to her long suffering butler, Clifford’s amusement she goes undercover as a Governess to the Chadwick children. It is only hours into her new role she realises she is being lied to and something is certainly far from right in the household.
As she begins to try and find out what is going on within the household staff, she is also convinced that the man that she saw murdered, is something to do with the stolen necklace. Clifford and Hugh become deeply involved with trying to find out what happened to the murdered man, if there was one, which eventually gets Hugh suspended.
A long standing debt owed to Ellie’s beloved deceased Uncle is called in to help them find a pathway through the red tape and obstructive practices being erected by Whitehall, with astonishing results.
Who stole the necklace, who murdered the man who was obsessed with Lady Chadwick, and how the half completed Bermuda Pavilion at the Exhibition fits into the complexity of the situation, makes riveting reading, as Ellie sets out with the able assistance, of Clifford to get to the very bottom of why murder was committed in Mayfair.
Once again Verity Bright has spun a very fine yearn indeed, wrapped around the very human foibles of greed, bullying and love in Murder in Mayfair; another incredibly enjoyable cozy murder.

[BookswithLydscl | · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 18th book in the Lady Eleanor Swift series and a really fun instalment. I love this series and really enjoy when we have books set closer to home with strong showings from the whole familiar gang.

This time the story is set in and around the British Empire Exhibition and we have not one case but two - a potential murder and an intriguing burglary and it's up to Ellie to try and figure out the secrets of all our potential suspects and see how the two cases may be interlinked.

I loved how we had Hugh back in action and a central part of the investigation team (along with the ever stoic Clifford). His sentimentality and love for Eleanor is really coming through in the stories and I'm looking forward to them finally walking down the aisle! We also got some more insight into Clifford's backstory in this one which brought about a really touching ending with a new arrival to the gang and as always our supporting core cast including the ladies of Henley Hall and the animals make memorable appearances which just make me hope we get a return to home for Eleanor soon.

The necklace burglary case from Lady Chadwick felt a little messy at times and I didn't really enjoy the characterisations of the staff but I think that just highlighted how balanced and idyllic the Henley Hall team are (which is what I want from a cosy mystery). I only wished we got a little more of the Chadwick children as I think the interactions with Eleanor were my favourite parts of the story (and I highly recommend Book 7 - A Lesson in Murder for similar).

The story ultimately all fell into place - a little convoluted and with a few two many characters involved yes but still satisfying, fun and heart-warming overall. As always, I enjoy this visit in the world of the Henley Hall crew and I look forward to book 19!

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital review copy of "Murder in Mayfair" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Murder in Mayfair by Verity Bright

Rating: 5 Stars

As an avid fan of historical mysteries (especially this series), I found "Murder in Mayfair" by Verity Bright to be an absolute delight. From the moment Lady Eleanor Swift witnesses a murder from a hot air balloon high above London, I was hooked on the thrilling mystery that unfolded.

The story weaves together a stolen pearl necklace, a missing dead body, and a web of secrets within the luxurious setting of Mayfair. Lady Eleanor's determination to solve the case, even if it means going undercover as a governess, showcases her tenacity and wit. The addition of the dashing (and Ellie's beau) Detective Hugh Seldon adds another layer of intrigue to the plot, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

Verity Bright's writing style is captivating, drawing readers into the glamorous world of the 1920s with vivid descriptions and well-developed characters. The author's ability to transport readers to another time and place is truly impressive. The pacing of the story is spot on, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end.

Overall, "Murder in Mayfair" is a well-plotted mystery that will keep you entertained from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed every page and found myself eagerly turning them to uncover the hidden secrets of Chadwick House. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good historical mystery with a touch of glamour and intrigue.

I echo the sentiment of many fans of the series when I say that I hope the adventures of Lady Eleanor Swift continue for many more books to come. Verity Bright has created a captivating world filled with lovable characters and engaging mysteries that will leave you craving for more.

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

[Lynsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘Murder in Mayfair’ was a captivating read, packed full of action, historical details and was an intriguing and intoxicating mystery. This is the 18th book in the series but it can definitely be read as a standalone easily. I do recommend all the books though as they are tremendous reads and I truly think of the characters as friends rather than fictional! This is one of the best books in the series though, mainly due to always being fascinated by the Great Exhibition, but it was a devilish good mystery, heart-wrenching and death-defying. If that doesn't whet the appetites I don't know what will.

Lady Swift is enjoying the beguiling sights and sounds of the Great Exhibition with her steadfast butler, Clifford, when she witnesses a murder. Nothing new for Eleanor but to her chagrin she is in a runaway hot air balloon and the murder took place 90ft below her! She is soon embroiled in a government cover-up, the search for a stolen necklace and all this could cost Hugh, Eleanor’s fiance his job as a policeman. Not a lot on the line then!

I was pleased that this was a mystery in which we saw Eleanor develop slightly by being so warm and kind to the children under her care, a forebringer of what's to come to her life maybe… but even if not it was heartwarming to see! Plus, we got to see a reminder of why she and Hugh make such a great team as they solved the case and clues together. Of course, Clifford was never far from her side offering invaluable information and support. I just adore these characters and I would be bereft if this series was ever to end. I know instantly that when I pick up a book by Verity Bright that I will be transported to a vivid and authentic world, full of rich historical details and it will have a jolly good mystery! Roll on book 19!

Let me know if you pick this one up!

[Emily Suchanek]

Picture This: Lady Eleanor Swift eagerly anticipates her hot air balloon ride over London's skyline, but instead of breathtaking views, she witnesses a murder: a man in a dark coat shoots another, leaving no trace upon landing except a broken pearl necklace clasp. Back at The Ritz, her friend Lady Philomena Chadwick reveals her stolen pink pearl necklace, which matches Eleanor's crime scene find. Going undercover as a governess at Chadwick's mansion, Eleanor uncovers a web of gossip involving a secret affair, a spying footman, and a nocturnal housemaid. As Detective Hugh Seldon investigates further robberies, Eleanor suspects a hidden gang of thieves. With danger mounting, can she uncover the truth before the necklace proves deadly?


Thoughts: The eighteenth installment in the Lady Eleanor Swift series proved to be one of the most captivating yet. Set against the backdrop of London's British Empire Exhibition, Ellie, Clifford, and their companions immerse themselves in the sights of the colonial world. Ellie's fortunate balloon ride offers a bird's-eye view of a murder below, but lacking physical evidence, Clifford and Hugh (coincidentally present for work) support her account, launching an investigation that unfolds with gripping historical intrigue. Delving into the Exhibition's details prompted me to research further online, while familiar characters like Gladstone and Tomkins, alongside a compelling new addition, enriched the narrative. The mystery itself proved engaging, Ellie shone brightly, and Hugh's emotional depth added a poignant layer, culminating in an exhilarating and perilous conclusion that left me thoroughly impressed. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this enriching opportunity to read and review.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 18 in the Lady Eleanor series and it features all the beloved characters from previous books. I hope that Eleanor and Hugh soon tie the knot, I keep hoping. Lady Eleanor Swift has been eagerly awaiting her trip in a hot air balloon to take in London’s amazing sights. But what she witnesses instead is a murder! From way up high she sees man in a dark coat shoot another man dead, but by the time she arrives back on the ground, Eleanor can find no trace of the body. Just the broken piece of a pearl necklace clasp, trodden into the dirt. Back at The Ritz hotel, over afternoon tea, Eleanor’s old friend Lady Philomena Chadwick confides in her about a scandalous theft. Lady Chadwick is certain someone on her staff has stolen her priceless pink pearl necklace. Eleanor is immediately suspicious when the description matches the jewellery she spotted at the crime scene. Much to her butler Clifford’s amusement, Eleanor goes undercover as a governess in the Chadwick’s sparkling Mayfair mansion. As she sets about questioning the disgruntled staff, she uncovers a treasure trove of gossip. But how do a secret love affair, a flirty footman with a fondness for spying, and a housemaid hiding a nightly visitor connect to the murder? And when Eleanor’s beau, Detective Hugh Seldon, is brought in to investigate a string of further robberies in Park Lane, Eleanor is certain that Chadwick House is hiding the unlikeliest gang of jewel thieves below stairs…Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but will this necklace get Eleanor killed before she uncovers the hidden gem she needs to crack the case? Murder in Mayfair is a totally gripping and twisty Golden Age whodunnit set in London.

[Vintagebooklvr · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars. Lady Eleanor was enjoying a hot air balloon ride seeing the sights of the British Empire Exhibition when she saw a murder. But when she arrived back on the ground there was not body or sign of any assault. In addition to this conundrum, Eleanor was asked by an acquaintance to go undercover as a governess in her Mayfair home to discover who stole a priceless necklace. Well, Eleanor needed her cohorts to put this mess to rights!

A fun book. Overall a satisfying mystery with plenty of hijinx and humor as Eleanor attempted to carry on an investigation downstairs at an elegant house in Mayfair and be a governess at the same time. She actually turned out to be a decent governess. Some of the investigation seemed to be needlessly complicated but it is difficult juggling two investigations and being a governess too. The ending was a bit too convenient but that is usually true of cozies.

The writers did a good job of tying in historical information about the exhibition as well as "modern" household appliances that were becoming available into the storyline. Justifiably there were some comments about the exploitation of members of the British Empire shown as exhibits but it didn't overtake the story. It showed that even though things were far from running smoothly in the British Empire the attitude in England was still strong.

I liked this one better than the last one. I can't pin point what it was it just worked better for me.

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

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another entertaining installment in one of my favorite cozy historical mystery series.

Lady Eleanor Swift is taking in Wembley's British Empire Exhibition while aloft in a hot air balloon and sees a murder from above. By the time she gets back to ground, the shooter and the victim are gone. All she finds is a piece of a jewelry clasp almost hidden in the dirt. Of course, she's intrigued and frustrated by the situation. Meanwhile, she's been asked by Lady Philomena Chadwick to help her with locating a stolen pearl necklace. Lady Philomena believes that a member of her staff has taken it, and Eleanor agrees to go undercover at her home pretending to be governess to the Chadwick children. Are these two cases related and can Eleanor and her butler, Cliffor, along with her fiance, Detective Hugh Seldon, find out what is happening?

It's hard to keep coming up with great new plots in a long running series, so I appreciate that I still find these so enjoyable and look forward to them. I like the characters and always relish coming back to see what they get up to next. Love the period details about the clothes, food, homes, society, etc. and the historical references. I can't imagine reading these out of order, so be sure to start at the beginning.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
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[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love these cosy crime novels. This is book 18 in the series and I am enjoying them more and more as we go along. 18 murders to solve! Poor Lady Swift always seems to get herself caught up in the most heinous of crimes and each time she shows great courage, wit and quick-thinking. This time we are away from Henley Hall staying in London and visiting the British Empire Exhibition. A little time travel takes us back to the sites and attitudes of the time. How different things were only a hundred years ago and yet you can see the seeds of change beginning to filter through as we follow each story. I love the attention that Verity Bright gives to the historical detail throughout.

Eleanor is, as always, a highly likeable character. I love her interactions with both staff, friends and acquaintances. Clifford and Hugh are equally enjoyable - how lovely to see a little more of her dashing fiancé in this story. I would love to see them spending even more time together. I also enjoyed Eleanor's stint as a governess. She really does seem to have a knack of handling any situation and getting herself out of trouble (or into it). The balloon flight was particularly enjoyable. :)

If you enjoy a light, entertaining read with likeable characters and the odd rouge thrown into the mix then I'm sure you would this comforting series - perfect escapism in a bygone world.