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London Ladies' Murder Club #4
Murder of a Suffragette
Women from all around the country have joined together to fight for the vote. But when one of them is killed, only amateur sleuth Mabel Canning can halt a murderer’s campaign…Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be organising a suffragette conference. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion, she barely has time for a sip of gin before chaos ensues. Leading suffragette Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed, clutching a white feather in her outstretched hand…As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive in time to trip over the banners and be roundly ignored. And with a killer on the loose, the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control. When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club!But soon it’s clear many a suffragette is hiding a secret under her sash. Eccentric veteran of the cause Dorothea Goose is acting rather flighty; why is she so afraid of the police? Would Annie’s rival go this far to replace her as leader? Or has someone taken a life to stop the cause of women’s lib?Then Mabel uncovers what happened to Annie’s closest comrade in the years before the war, and she is sure the answers lie in the past. But will Mabel be elected as the killer’s next victim? Or can she crack the case and save the fight for Votes for Women?A totally addictive whodunnit bursting with suspense and sparkling with wit, from USA Today bestseller Marty Wingate. Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Richard Osman, Verity Bright and T.E. Kinsey.What readers are saying about The London Ladies’ Murder Club ‘Loved everything about this… Outstanding… Amazing… I was shocked by who the villain was… My favourite cozy mystery!’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘YES. I completely inhaled this in one day… So gripping.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Just loved this! Couldn't get enough. I just had to know how this would end. I couldn't stop reading!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I absolutely loved this… I read it in one day!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘Excellent. I loved it from start to finish… Fabulous… Wonderful!’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐‘I have read many, many books and there are very, very few that I’ve been unable to put down. This is the exception. Reader, I was hooked… Worthy of P.G. Wodehouse.’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2024
262 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Marty Wingate
32 books696 followersUSA Today best-selling author Marty Wingate writes The First Edition Library series (Berkley) set in Bath, England, about the curator of a collection of books from the Golden Age of Mystery. Book one, The Bodies in the Library, concerns murder among an Agatha Christie fan-fiction writing group, and in book two, Murder Is a Must (October 2020), an exhibition manager is found dead at the bottom of a spiral staircase. Marty also writes historical fiction: Glamour Girls (Alcove Press, January 2021) follows Spitfire pilot Rosalie Wright through both the physical and emotional dangers of the Second World War. Marty writes two further mystery series: the Potting Shed books (Alibi) feature Pru Parke, a middle-aged American gardener transplanted from Texas to England, and the Birds of a Feather series (Alibi) follows Julia Lanchester, bird lover, who runs a tourist office in a Suffolk village.
Marty prefers on-the-ground research whenever possible, and so she and her husband regularly travel to England and Scotland, where she can be found tracing the steps of her characters, stopping for tea and a slice of Victoria sponge in a café, or enjoying a swift half in a pub.
Marty prefers on-the-ground research whenever possible, and so she and her husband regularly travel to England and Scotland, where she can be found tracing the steps of her characters, stopping for tea and a slice of Victoria sponge in a café, or enjoying a swift half in a pub.
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September 26, 2024
Murder of a Suffragette by Marty Wingate
Synopsis /
Women from all around the country have joined together to fight for the vote. But when one of them is killed, only amateur sleuth Mabel Canning can halt a murderer’s campaign. Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be organising a suffragette conference. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion, she barely has time for a sip of gin before chaos ensues.
Leading suffragette Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed, clutching a white feather in her outstretched hand…As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive in time to trip over the banners and be roundly ignored. And with a killer on the loose, the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control.
When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club! But soon it’s clear many a suffragette is hiding a secret under her sash. Eccentric veteran of the cause Dorothea Goose is acting rather flighty; why is she so afraid of the police? Would Annie’s rival go this far to replace her as leader? Or has someone taken a life to stop the cause of women’s lib? Then Mabel uncovers what happened to Annie’s closest comrade in the years before the war, and she is sure the answers lie in the past.
But will Mabel be elected as the killer’s next victim? Or can she crack the case and save the fight for Votes for Women?
My Thoughts /
Mabel fumed on her way down to the kitchen. Harkin would have a word with Binks when she said so, and not before - and she would be present when it happened. Let him put that in his pipe and smoke it.
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Marty Wingate and Bookouture publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Murder of a Suffragette is book four in Marty Wingate’s London Ladies’ Murder Club series, and, if you haven't heard of the London Ladies' Murder Club, it's a wonderful new cosy mystery series set in 1920's London, highlighting the adventures of Miss Mabel Canning of the Useful Women’s Agency.
In this story, Wingate highlights the plight of the suffragette movement in 1922.
🚦🛑STOP!🛑🚦
Did you know that there were both Suffragettes and Suffragists? No? Me either. So while you’re here, lets quickly clear up a key difference between the two. While the two terms were often used interchangeably when discussing women’s suffrage history, there was indeed a definite distinction between the two. Thought of mainly as a group who advocated for ‘enfranchisement’, or the right to vote, a key difference between suffragists and suffragettes is that while the suffragists used largely peaceful methods such as lobbying, the suffragettes weren't afraid to employ more militant tactics in an effort to be heard.
We know from previous books that Miss Canning moved to London because she desired to live as an ‘independent’ woman. She found herself a job working for Miss Lillian Kerr, who owns and operates the Useful Women Agency, and since the series first introduction, has taken her useful employment from strength to strength.
‘Useful Women’ carry out all manner of work, and, in book 4, Mabel has been engaged to work as the private secretary to Lady Fellbridge up at Fellbridge Hall, Sussex. Lady Fellbridge has put out a call to a (select) few suffragettes and other supporters to gather at Fellbridge Hall and discuss ideas on how to proceed with the latest campaign - women’s right to vote. Women over the age of thirty had gained the vote in 1918, but the fight would not be over until they were equal to men and had the right to vote at twenty-one.
But the women barely have time to settle in when disaster strikes. A long-time leader of the suffragette cause, Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed. With Detective Inspector Tollerton absent on another case, it’s left to Mabel to begin the investigations. It’s just as well her good friends, Cora Portjoy and Miss Hippolyta Skeffington (who would rather keep her Christian name under her hat - so call me Skeff) are both attending the conference. On this case Mabel needs all the assistance she can get.
In my previous review of book three I said: ... this proceeds at the perfect pace - not too fast and not too slow. I can see the development of the characters since the first book and I'm really enjoying Wingate's style of writing and how she's developing her characters. The mysteries are well plotted and just twisty enough to be interesting, and they are certainly unique - on the doorstep, at the séance, and now, at the dance hall.. My thoughts haven’t changed since finishing book four. So you can read this paragraph again!
The author is growing Mabel in both her style and confidence; and, in her sleuthing ability and analytical skills. Her friendship with Cora, Skeff and Park is cementing; and other returning characters make a welcome appearance.
Last Word?
There is a surprise for the reader written into the Epilogue.
Last, Last Word?
I can’t wait to read the next instalment!!
Murder of a Suffragette is due for release on October 28, 2024.
Previous titles in the series are:
A Body on the Doorstep
A Body at the Séance
A Body at the Dance Hall
#MurderofaSuffragette #UsefulWomenAgency #LondonLadiesMurderClub #NetGalley
Synopsis /
Women from all around the country have joined together to fight for the vote. But when one of them is killed, only amateur sleuth Mabel Canning can halt a murderer’s campaign. Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be organising a suffragette conference. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion, she barely has time for a sip of gin before chaos ensues.
Leading suffragette Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed, clutching a white feather in her outstretched hand…As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive in time to trip over the banners and be roundly ignored. And with a killer on the loose, the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control.
When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club! But soon it’s clear many a suffragette is hiding a secret under her sash. Eccentric veteran of the cause Dorothea Goose is acting rather flighty; why is she so afraid of the police? Would Annie’s rival go this far to replace her as leader? Or has someone taken a life to stop the cause of women’s lib? Then Mabel uncovers what happened to Annie’s closest comrade in the years before the war, and she is sure the answers lie in the past.
But will Mabel be elected as the killer’s next victim? Or can she crack the case and save the fight for Votes for Women?
My Thoughts /
Mabel fumed on her way down to the kitchen. Harkin would have a word with Binks when she said so, and not before - and she would be present when it happened. Let him put that in his pipe and smoke it.
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Marty Wingate and Bookouture publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Murder of a Suffragette is book four in Marty Wingate’s London Ladies’ Murder Club series, and, if you haven't heard of the London Ladies' Murder Club, it's a wonderful new cosy mystery series set in 1920's London, highlighting the adventures of Miss Mabel Canning of the Useful Women’s Agency.
In this story, Wingate highlights the plight of the suffragette movement in 1922.
🚦🛑STOP!🛑🚦
Did you know that there were both Suffragettes and Suffragists? No? Me either. So while you’re here, lets quickly clear up a key difference between the two. While the two terms were often used interchangeably when discussing women’s suffrage history, there was indeed a definite distinction between the two. Thought of mainly as a group who advocated for ‘enfranchisement’, or the right to vote, a key difference between suffragists and suffragettes is that while the suffragists used largely peaceful methods such as lobbying, the suffragettes weren't afraid to employ more militant tactics in an effort to be heard.
We know from previous books that Miss Canning moved to London because she desired to live as an ‘independent’ woman. She found herself a job working for Miss Lillian Kerr, who owns and operates the Useful Women Agency, and since the series first introduction, has taken her useful employment from strength to strength.
‘Useful Women’ carry out all manner of work, and, in book 4, Mabel has been engaged to work as the private secretary to Lady Fellbridge up at Fellbridge Hall, Sussex. Lady Fellbridge has put out a call to a (select) few suffragettes and other supporters to gather at Fellbridge Hall and discuss ideas on how to proceed with the latest campaign - women’s right to vote. Women over the age of thirty had gained the vote in 1918, but the fight would not be over until they were equal to men and had the right to vote at twenty-one.
But the women barely have time to settle in when disaster strikes. A long-time leader of the suffragette cause, Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed. With Detective Inspector Tollerton absent on another case, it’s left to Mabel to begin the investigations. It’s just as well her good friends, Cora Portjoy and Miss Hippolyta Skeffington (who would rather keep her Christian name under her hat - so call me Skeff) are both attending the conference. On this case Mabel needs all the assistance she can get.
In my previous review of book three I said: ... this proceeds at the perfect pace - not too fast and not too slow. I can see the development of the characters since the first book and I'm really enjoying Wingate's style of writing and how she's developing her characters. The mysteries are well plotted and just twisty enough to be interesting, and they are certainly unique - on the doorstep, at the séance, and now, at the dance hall.. My thoughts haven’t changed since finishing book four. So you can read this paragraph again!
The author is growing Mabel in both her style and confidence; and, in her sleuthing ability and analytical skills. Her friendship with Cora, Skeff and Park is cementing; and other returning characters make a welcome appearance.
Last Word?
There is a surprise for the reader written into the Epilogue.
Last, Last Word?
I can’t wait to read the next instalment!!
Murder of a Suffragette is due for release on October 28, 2024.
Previous titles in the series are:
A Body on the Doorstep
A Body at the Séance
A Body at the Dance Hall
#MurderofaSuffragette #UsefulWomenAgency #LondonLadiesMurderClub #NetGalley
October 27, 2024
(3.5 stars, rounded up)
The fourth book in this historical mystery series takes place in the spring of 1922. Instead of the usual London location, this time Mabel has been hired to work at a manor house near where she grew up, in Sussex, to help the lady of the manor with a multi-day gathering of suffragettes.
(For those who aren’t familiar with this part of British history, in 1918 the Representation of the People Act was passed which allowed women over the age of 30 who met a property qualification to vote. It wasn’t until 1928, that all women over the age of 21, regardless of whether or not they owned a home, were given the right to vote on the same terms as men.)
Mabel is a “modern woman”, single and in her 30s, but now she has a serious romance going on with Park Winstone, a former London police officer who is now employed doing something-or-other in diplomacy. They live in the same apartment building (flat block?) in London. Mabel has also made great friends with two women who live together in the same building, Cora and “Skeff”, who have also been invited to this suffragette gathering. Skeff is a journalist while Cora prides herself on her creative millinery. Hats were a big thing back then, for both men and women. In fact, a bowler hat plays a part in the murder mystery this time, as does Park’s dog, Gladys. Mabel’s previous successes in private investigations wind up coming in very handy once again.
Mabel has an interesting “talent” - when she looks at someone’s handwriting, she hears music. And each person’s handwriting makes Mabel think of different sorts of music. Very interesting! This particular talent played a part in the investigation, helping Mabel identify different samples of handwriting.
While I definitely enjoyed this one, it felt a bit slower than the other books. Perhaps it was because all the action took place in one location (the manor house and the nearby village) and not in London; perhaps it was because there were so many women to keep track of. I did enjoy getting to meet Mabel’s father and Mrs. Chandekar finally. I was also happy to have 8-year-old Augustus pop up again and for more than a short interlude.
Even though this book is the fourth in a series, I think it would work fine as a standalone.
NOTE: I recently saw the Broadway musical, Suffs, and so I knew a bit more about this time in history and about the difference between suffragists and suffragettes. We all need to learn more about these brave women!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The fourth book in this historical mystery series takes place in the spring of 1922. Instead of the usual London location, this time Mabel has been hired to work at a manor house near where she grew up, in Sussex, to help the lady of the manor with a multi-day gathering of suffragettes.
(For those who aren’t familiar with this part of British history, in 1918 the Representation of the People Act was passed which allowed women over the age of 30 who met a property qualification to vote. It wasn’t until 1928, that all women over the age of 21, regardless of whether or not they owned a home, were given the right to vote on the same terms as men.)
Mabel is a “modern woman”, single and in her 30s, but now she has a serious romance going on with Park Winstone, a former London police officer who is now employed doing something-or-other in diplomacy. They live in the same apartment building (flat block?) in London. Mabel has also made great friends with two women who live together in the same building, Cora and “Skeff”, who have also been invited to this suffragette gathering. Skeff is a journalist while Cora prides herself on her creative millinery. Hats were a big thing back then, for both men and women. In fact, a bowler hat plays a part in the murder mystery this time, as does Park’s dog, Gladys. Mabel’s previous successes in private investigations wind up coming in very handy once again.
Mabel has an interesting “talent” - when she looks at someone’s handwriting, she hears music. And each person’s handwriting makes Mabel think of different sorts of music. Very interesting! This particular talent played a part in the investigation, helping Mabel identify different samples of handwriting.
While I definitely enjoyed this one, it felt a bit slower than the other books. Perhaps it was because all the action took place in one location (the manor house and the nearby village) and not in London; perhaps it was because there were so many women to keep track of. I did enjoy getting to meet Mabel’s father and Mrs. Chandekar finally. I was also happy to have 8-year-old Augustus pop up again and for more than a short interlude.
Even though this book is the fourth in a series, I think it would work fine as a standalone.
NOTE: I recently saw the Broadway musical, Suffs, and so I knew a bit more about this time in history and about the difference between suffragists and suffragettes. We all need to learn more about these brave women!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 29, 2024
I enjoyed this cosy murder mystery set in the 1920’s and around a meeting of suffragettes.
The murder is discovered quite early in the book and as the investigation unfolds the mystery builds. Our protagonist Mabel Canning calls in her friends from the London Ladies Murder Club. Murder of a Suffragette is book 4 in a series but I didn’t feel like I had missed anything by not reading the previous books.
Murder of a Suffragette is a slow burn, character driven story. A nice easy read to sit down in a comfy seat with a cup of tea.
A few red herrings had me guessing and double guessing who the murderer was. I never did get it right.
Murder of a Suffragette is a light read with an engaging mystery, a touch of humour and memorable characters ( especially Gladys the dog). Perfect to escape into for a few hours.
The murder is discovered quite early in the book and as the investigation unfolds the mystery builds. Our protagonist Mabel Canning calls in her friends from the London Ladies Murder Club. Murder of a Suffragette is book 4 in a series but I didn’t feel like I had missed anything by not reading the previous books.
Murder of a Suffragette is a slow burn, character driven story. A nice easy read to sit down in a comfy seat with a cup of tea.
A few red herrings had me guessing and double guessing who the murderer was. I never did get it right.
Murder of a Suffragette is a light read with an engaging mystery, a touch of humour and memorable characters ( especially Gladys the dog). Perfect to escape into for a few hours.
October 7, 2024
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for the advanced reading copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
Mabel is back in the vicinity of Peasmarsh, the village where she grew up and lived before she came to London. She's staying at Fellbridge Hall the home of her childhood friend Ronald and the married home of her late best friend Edith. Mabel has no time to dwell on the past now, she's here in official capacity as a Useful Woman, to help Lady Fellbridge with her suffragette reunion weekend. The suffragettes of the pre-war days have come together again to choose a new leader who will help them carry on the fight for universal voting rights and education. Before they can even hold one activity, let alone choose a leader, Lady Fellbridge's particular friend Mrs. Annie Harkin is murdered! The local police Sergeant is ill and Tolly is up to his eyeballs in work in London so this time it's up to Mabel to officially investigate the crime. Could the murderer have been one of the suffragettes? Why would someone do that? Jealousy? Old wounds? Or was it someone else known to the victim? When another suffragette ends up dead, it sure seems like the murderer is someone inside the Hall. Can Mabel figure this out before someone else gets hurt or worse?
I have really enjoyed this series and was eager to read this next one mainly to see where the romance was headed. The mystery ended up sucking me in and I couldn't put it down. The story got off to a bit of a slow start when all the suffragettes were introduced. It wasn't difficult for me to put the book down and pick it up again later but then once the investigation really got going, I was hooked. I did not figure out whodunit though I had my suspicions about that person. It didn't seem likely they could have done it. The romantic subplot progresses nicely but the epilogue seems to indicate this is the last of Mabel's adventures. I hope not! So many historical mystery series are ending and I like this one because it is different.
Mabel is an older heroine at 32 and she's mature enough to know her own mind and what she wants. She is finally independent and free to do what she wants BUT she still feels like a little girl when she's back in her father's orbit. She understands why he worries but she's an adult and has proven she can take care of herself - at least with the help of friends. I really like Mabel and can relate to her. She's come into her own with this investigation and is capable of directing the investigation and the women's suffrage event on her own. Mabel also knows her feelings for Park even if she isn't quite sure what her intentions are. She has never felt this way about any of the men she's brought home but is confident Park can win her father over.
Reg Canning loves his daughter but as a single dad, he's overprotective. He can't accept his daughter is an adult and times have changed and modern women date without consequences. Reg tests Park and attempts to drive this suitor away. That's not cool but typical of fathers, especially fathers who grew up in the Victorian era when patriarchs were strict and maintained tight control over their families. Reg has a good heart though and he's happiest when he's acting as a mentor or father figure. I think he just misses having his little girl around following him around and learning from him. He seems to enjoy lost souls who need a father figure. Mrs. Chandeker is more understanding. She raised Mabel to be a smart, independent young woman and trusts Mabel. She's very kind and nurturing to everyone she meets. One thing I question is the unmarried Indian woman living in the same house as an unmarried European male without question and his natural acceptance of Mrs. C as family. Perhaps there's a real life example of such a situation. The little bit I have read about the British Raj period indicates people were not so open minded.
Back for more fun are Cora and Skeff. Cora is a dear heart who is kind. She is a great listener and as such, is an asset to the investigation. She gets information no one else knows or would be able to get and knows instinctively how to get that information. Cora doesn't seem to know her own worth and is too shy to toot her own horn. She leaves it to Skeff to do. Skeff is awesome. She's queer, out and proud and a dedicated journalist. Though she's eager for a good story as much as the next reporter, she waits until the investigation is done and reports in a fair and unbiased manner. Her job is useful for maintaining contacts all over the country which helps in the investigation. Communication was a little more slow 100 years ago than it is today and some relevant information may not arrive in time! Other than Skeff, my favorite character is 8-year-old Augustus Malling-Frobisher. He's the comic relief. Augustus reminds me of my younger cousin who was very bright, curious and a kind soul but insanely hyperactive! Poor Augustus is lonely and neglected. He's in need of parental figures to love him and guide him. His mother has a good reason to send him away. I'm not sure what Mabel's math means. Is I feel sorry for Augustus but better Mabel look after him than me! I've been too old for the Augustuses of the world since I was an older teenager LOL!
Of course Park and Gladys are here too. Park is really a sweetheart. He does truly love Mabel and understands her desire for independence. He doesn't try to stop her from investigating and knows she's capable. That doesn't mean he doesn't worry and there are certain situations where he needs to step in because of his masculine authority and experience and Mabel understands that. They work as a team, in conjunction with Cora and Skeff and everyone works well together. That's what makes this series different and the investigations so successful. Gladys is adorable and intelligent, of course. Her dialogue is a bit off. Terriers don't howl or bray. They speak "Aroo! roo roo roo!" or yap yap yap yap and tap you with their paw when they demand attention and you aren't giving it fast enough. (as in "FEED ME NOW! It's ONE MINUTE past my supper time TAP TAP!")
Inspector Tollington is fair minded for a cop and respects Mabel's intelligence and sleuthing ability. She is especially suited to this case because the suspects are all women. He brings along Hildy, PC Wardle, who is finally getting a chance to be truly involved in the investigation. Even though she spends most of her time guarding women and taking statements, she's doing something and seems to be excited to be actively doing policework. I like her a lot. She's fun and a great addition to the team.
We finally meet Ronald and his family. He's a nice man and isn't interested in marrying Mabel any more than she wants to marry him. He seems to be over that. Childhood memories can be recalled with a smile and he can speak of Edith now without being upset. He loves his mother but isn't overprotective. Ronald helps with the investigation with insider knowledge of the house but doesn't try to stop Mabel and co. from investigating. His mother is pretty cool. She's not stuffy, formal or old-fashioned. She has no regrets about the past and cares for her husband in her own way. She's grateful for her two sons and grandchildren and marriage and age now give her the right to vote. She's very egalitarian in her views and believes everyone has the right to vote and an education. Lady F even hints that she is like Cora and Skeff but wasn't brave enough to be so daring and open. Different time, different views. Even in the 1920s Cora and Skeff are pretty unusual! Lady F is worried about the future, worried the past is affecting the present and just wants her friends to be innocent so they can choose a new leader. I appreciate her cooperation and how she never tries to thwart the investigation or the police.
Dorothea Goose is an unusual woman. An older spinster, she was close friends with Lady F back in the day. Dorothea is not universally beloved. At first it seems the other women don't like her because she's kind of shrill and bossy. She tries to lord her authority as a friend of Lady F's over Mabel but Mabel holds firm. Apparently no one wants to be in the room next to Dorothea's save for Annie. It comes out that there's a reason for that. The past haunts Dorothea and she has what we call PTSD. Her story is very sad and it is truly awful the things that were done to women. She's still fighting so I give her a lot of credit. It's so terrible none of these women will live to see women achieve full equality or anything close to it. Dorothea is a tough lady to like but I ended up appreciating her and hoping she wasn't the murderer. Annie Harkin didn't live long enough to get to know except through the other characters. Annie just seemed very nice and a lovely woman but others think she was TOO nice and acted like a martyr. Annie may have had skeletons in her past that led to murder. She was estranged from her husband, no children and no other family. Perhaps her death was a case of wrong room, wrong victim?
None of the other suffragettes or suffragists (yes I knew there was a difference, American women preferred suffragist to differentiate from the violent tactics of the British WSPU) are not very likable. Miss Pretoria Fleming-Jones has FOMO. She keeps harping on about bluebells and is very jealous some of her supposed friends went to the bluebell wood without her. SO GO already and see the bluebells and stop sniping about it. When she does, no one can find her. She seems suspicious to me like I think the bluebell wood is cover for something and where was she when everyone else went? Did they not invite her? Her whiny, abrasive personality may have something to do with the lack of invitations. Lavinia Poppin and Miss Thirza Bass are tight and they've been close to Pretoria in the past. Mabel thinks of them as a Greek chorus but Pretoria seems to be the hanger-on in this clique of three. I think she may be the murderer because she was jealous Annie was about to be chosen as the new leader. Or maybe not.
Mrs. Collette Massey is so bossy! She continually advises everyone on what they should be doing and how to do it. She butts out of the murder investigation at least. Diane is quick to point out a few obvious facts. She tells it like it is. She once shared angry words with Dorothea and was involved in the suffragette movement but later gave it up for the non-violent protest movement. She doesn't have an alibi for the time of Annie's death but she does defend Dorothea's character from the others. I admire her for that.
Miss Ruby Truelock is the youngest of the group. She's there on behalf of her late mother, Susan, who was one of the original suffragists and educators. At first Ruby is very quiet and fades into the background. Everyone ignores her. Then, after the murder, Ruby comes out of her shell. Ruby seems to idolize Mabel and is a wannabe investigator herself. She fancies herself Watson to Mabel's Sherlock but is too young and inexperienced to really be of any help. Ruby is very curious about the murder, could she be the murderer cleverly trying to keep Mabel from finding out the truth? I'm not sure about her. I want to like her but she does seem a little over eager like she's trying to hide something. No one, not even Mabel, is very nice to her. Lady F is accommodating and gracious to everyone, including Ruby but it doesn't seem like she's included in their clique. How could she be, being unknown to them but they could at least welcome her as a future leader who will finish what they started. They should applaud her interest and enthusiasm.
Binks the butler is the prime suspect. Thankfully that means it wasn't one of the suffragettes but I don't want it to be him either. The butler did it! What a cliche! He's young but knows his job well and acts like a proper butler. Binks wears thick blue-tinted spectacles due to an eye injury in his younger days. He appears to be blind but I wonder if he really is? When he removes his spectacles he can see and it sure seems like he can see better than everyone thinks he can. He had a rough past and a connection to Annie. He claims they were once close, like siblings, but are now estranged. Could something from the past have been dragged up now and caused Binks to kill his cousin? Perhaps the suffrage thing is just a red herring? Dr. Finlay seems like a shady doctor to me, at least from a modern perspective. He keeps pushing drugs on Dorothea for nerves. She insists she doesn't need them and he keeps trying. At first she's nervy, of course, finding the body, but she's made of stronger stuff and the doctor should find out more about her history before being so quick to prescribe drugs. Mabel's father doesn't care for this new doctor but Mabel laughs it off thinking it's just that her father doesn't like change and thinks no one can be as good as the old doctor. I hope Dr. Finlay is not the murderer. I can't think of a motive and he's a doctor, he's supposed to do no harm. The final suspect would be Oliver Harkin, Annie's estranged husband. It seems fishy he shows up when she's murdered claiming he loved her, yet everyone believes they were estranged. How could he have sneaked into the Hall, found his wife and killed her?
Other servants at the Hall include Campsie, the gardener. He's a bit shy and unsure of himself when he's indoors. He's happy to show off his gardens. Campise has an old bowler hat he claims has gone missing. It may have been worn by the murderer! Is Campsie telling the truth that someone stole his hat? He doesn't know when it went missing or who took it. I trust him though. I don't think he has it in him to kill, plus he doesn't have a motive. Deenie Pilford and Katie Darling are the cooks. Deenie is tough and traditional. She's married and doesn't live in or venture upstairs. Katie is an unrepentant single mother (REALLY? The 1920s?) who can't wait to get away from her kids every day. She seems to be on the prowl for a new man and has set her sights on one of the constables. I think she would eat the poor boy alive! I don't quite trust her and think she might be up to no good sneaking around the house. I don't see a motive for murder though.
The local police constables aren't much help. PC Ned and PC Ted are wet behind the ears. They're young and Ned was mischievous schoolboy when Mabel taught Sunday school! That's very young to be involved in a murder investigation. They don't have much to do except add some lightness to the story. Katie's Aunt Janet is the telephone exchange operator. She loves to gossip but never shares anything she learns from listening in on the phone. She just collects other stories and shares the latest news.
This was an excellent entry in a great series. I shall be sorry to leave Mabel and co. behind. Perhaps her adventures will continue or other Useful Women will come into the picture. I'd like a spinoff with Skeff and Cora, a prequel about Lillian is necessary for sure!
Mabel is back in the vicinity of Peasmarsh, the village where she grew up and lived before she came to London. She's staying at Fellbridge Hall the home of her childhood friend Ronald and the married home of her late best friend Edith. Mabel has no time to dwell on the past now, she's here in official capacity as a Useful Woman, to help Lady Fellbridge with her suffragette reunion weekend. The suffragettes of the pre-war days have come together again to choose a new leader who will help them carry on the fight for universal voting rights and education. Before they can even hold one activity, let alone choose a leader, Lady Fellbridge's particular friend Mrs. Annie Harkin is murdered! The local police Sergeant is ill and Tolly is up to his eyeballs in work in London so this time it's up to Mabel to officially investigate the crime. Could the murderer have been one of the suffragettes? Why would someone do that? Jealousy? Old wounds? Or was it someone else known to the victim? When another suffragette ends up dead, it sure seems like the murderer is someone inside the Hall. Can Mabel figure this out before someone else gets hurt or worse?
I have really enjoyed this series and was eager to read this next one mainly to see where the romance was headed. The mystery ended up sucking me in and I couldn't put it down. The story got off to a bit of a slow start when all the suffragettes were introduced. It wasn't difficult for me to put the book down and pick it up again later but then once the investigation really got going, I was hooked. I did not figure out whodunit though I had my suspicions about that person. It didn't seem likely they could have done it. The romantic subplot progresses nicely but the epilogue seems to indicate this is the last of Mabel's adventures. I hope not! So many historical mystery series are ending and I like this one because it is different.
Mabel is an older heroine at 32 and she's mature enough to know her own mind and what she wants. She is finally independent and free to do what she wants BUT she still feels like a little girl when she's back in her father's orbit. She understands why he worries but she's an adult and has proven she can take care of herself - at least with the help of friends. I really like Mabel and can relate to her. She's come into her own with this investigation and is capable of directing the investigation and the women's suffrage event on her own. Mabel also knows her feelings for Park even if she isn't quite sure what her intentions are. She has never felt this way about any of the men she's brought home but is confident Park can win her father over.
Reg Canning loves his daughter but as a single dad, he's overprotective. He can't accept his daughter is an adult and times have changed and modern women date without consequences. Reg tests Park and attempts to drive this suitor away. That's not cool but typical of fathers, especially fathers who grew up in the Victorian era when patriarchs were strict and maintained tight control over their families. Reg has a good heart though and he's happiest when he's acting as a mentor or father figure. I think he just misses having his little girl around following him around and learning from him. He seems to enjoy lost souls who need a father figure. Mrs. Chandeker is more understanding. She raised Mabel to be a smart, independent young woman and trusts Mabel. She's very kind and nurturing to everyone she meets. One thing I question is the unmarried Indian woman living in the same house as an unmarried European male without question and his natural acceptance of Mrs. C as family. Perhaps there's a real life example of such a situation. The little bit I have read about the British Raj period indicates people were not so open minded.
Back for more fun are Cora and Skeff. Cora is a dear heart who is kind. She is a great listener and as such, is an asset to the investigation. She gets information no one else knows or would be able to get and knows instinctively how to get that information. Cora doesn't seem to know her own worth and is too shy to toot her own horn. She leaves it to Skeff to do. Skeff is awesome. She's queer, out and proud and a dedicated journalist. Though she's eager for a good story as much as the next reporter, she waits until the investigation is done and reports in a fair and unbiased manner. Her job is useful for maintaining contacts all over the country which helps in the investigation. Communication was a little more slow 100 years ago than it is today and some relevant information may not arrive in time! Other than Skeff, my favorite character is 8-year-old Augustus Malling-Frobisher. He's the comic relief. Augustus reminds me of my younger cousin who was very bright, curious and a kind soul but insanely hyperactive! Poor Augustus is lonely and neglected. He's in need of parental figures to love him and guide him. His mother has a good reason to send him away. I'm not sure what Mabel's math means. Is I feel sorry for Augustus but better Mabel look after him than me! I've been too old for the Augustuses of the world since I was an older teenager LOL!
Of course Park and Gladys are here too. Park is really a sweetheart. He does truly love Mabel and understands her desire for independence. He doesn't try to stop her from investigating and knows she's capable. That doesn't mean he doesn't worry and there are certain situations where he needs to step in because of his masculine authority and experience and Mabel understands that. They work as a team, in conjunction with Cora and Skeff and everyone works well together. That's what makes this series different and the investigations so successful. Gladys is adorable and intelligent, of course. Her dialogue is a bit off. Terriers don't howl or bray. They speak "Aroo! roo roo roo!" or yap yap yap yap and tap you with their paw when they demand attention and you aren't giving it fast enough. (as in "FEED ME NOW! It's ONE MINUTE past my supper time TAP TAP!")
Inspector Tollington is fair minded for a cop and respects Mabel's intelligence and sleuthing ability. She is especially suited to this case because the suspects are all women. He brings along Hildy, PC Wardle, who is finally getting a chance to be truly involved in the investigation. Even though she spends most of her time guarding women and taking statements, she's doing something and seems to be excited to be actively doing policework. I like her a lot. She's fun and a great addition to the team.
We finally meet Ronald and his family. He's a nice man and isn't interested in marrying Mabel any more than she wants to marry him. He seems to be over that. Childhood memories can be recalled with a smile and he can speak of Edith now without being upset. He loves his mother but isn't overprotective. Ronald helps with the investigation with insider knowledge of the house but doesn't try to stop Mabel and co. from investigating. His mother is pretty cool. She's not stuffy, formal or old-fashioned. She has no regrets about the past and cares for her husband in her own way. She's grateful for her two sons and grandchildren and marriage and age now give her the right to vote. She's very egalitarian in her views and believes everyone has the right to vote and an education. Lady F even hints that she is like Cora and Skeff but wasn't brave enough to be so daring and open. Different time, different views. Even in the 1920s Cora and Skeff are pretty unusual! Lady F is worried about the future, worried the past is affecting the present and just wants her friends to be innocent so they can choose a new leader. I appreciate her cooperation and how she never tries to thwart the investigation or the police.
Dorothea Goose is an unusual woman. An older spinster, she was close friends with Lady F back in the day. Dorothea is not universally beloved. At first it seems the other women don't like her because she's kind of shrill and bossy. She tries to lord her authority as a friend of Lady F's over Mabel but Mabel holds firm. Apparently no one wants to be in the room next to Dorothea's save for Annie. It comes out that there's a reason for that. The past haunts Dorothea and she has what we call PTSD. Her story is very sad and it is truly awful the things that were done to women. She's still fighting so I give her a lot of credit. It's so terrible none of these women will live to see women achieve full equality or anything close to it. Dorothea is a tough lady to like but I ended up appreciating her and hoping she wasn't the murderer. Annie Harkin didn't live long enough to get to know except through the other characters. Annie just seemed very nice and a lovely woman but others think she was TOO nice and acted like a martyr. Annie may have had skeletons in her past that led to murder. She was estranged from her husband, no children and no other family. Perhaps her death was a case of wrong room, wrong victim?
None of the other suffragettes or suffragists (yes I knew there was a difference, American women preferred suffragist to differentiate from the violent tactics of the British WSPU) are not very likable. Miss Pretoria Fleming-Jones has FOMO. She keeps harping on about bluebells and is very jealous some of her supposed friends went to the bluebell wood without her. SO GO already and see the bluebells and stop sniping about it. When she does, no one can find her. She seems suspicious to me like I think the bluebell wood is cover for something and where was she when everyone else went? Did they not invite her? Her whiny, abrasive personality may have something to do with the lack of invitations. Lavinia Poppin and Miss Thirza Bass are tight and they've been close to Pretoria in the past. Mabel thinks of them as a Greek chorus but Pretoria seems to be the hanger-on in this clique of three. I think she may be the murderer because she was jealous Annie was about to be chosen as the new leader. Or maybe not.
Mrs. Collette Massey is so bossy! She continually advises everyone on what they should be doing and how to do it. She butts out of the murder investigation at least. Diane is quick to point out a few obvious facts. She tells it like it is. She once shared angry words with Dorothea and was involved in the suffragette movement but later gave it up for the non-violent protest movement. She doesn't have an alibi for the time of Annie's death but she does defend Dorothea's character from the others. I admire her for that.
Miss Ruby Truelock is the youngest of the group. She's there on behalf of her late mother, Susan, who was one of the original suffragists and educators. At first Ruby is very quiet and fades into the background. Everyone ignores her. Then, after the murder, Ruby comes out of her shell. Ruby seems to idolize Mabel and is a wannabe investigator herself. She fancies herself Watson to Mabel's Sherlock but is too young and inexperienced to really be of any help. Ruby is very curious about the murder, could she be the murderer cleverly trying to keep Mabel from finding out the truth? I'm not sure about her. I want to like her but she does seem a little over eager like she's trying to hide something. No one, not even Mabel, is very nice to her. Lady F is accommodating and gracious to everyone, including Ruby but it doesn't seem like she's included in their clique. How could she be, being unknown to them but they could at least welcome her as a future leader who will finish what they started. They should applaud her interest and enthusiasm.
Binks the butler is the prime suspect. Thankfully that means it wasn't one of the suffragettes but I don't want it to be him either. The butler did it! What a cliche! He's young but knows his job well and acts like a proper butler. Binks wears thick blue-tinted spectacles due to an eye injury in his younger days. He appears to be blind but I wonder if he really is? When he removes his spectacles he can see and it sure seems like he can see better than everyone thinks he can. He had a rough past and a connection to Annie. He claims they were once close, like siblings, but are now estranged. Could something from the past have been dragged up now and caused Binks to kill his cousin? Perhaps the suffrage thing is just a red herring? Dr. Finlay seems like a shady doctor to me, at least from a modern perspective. He keeps pushing drugs on Dorothea for nerves. She insists she doesn't need them and he keeps trying. At first she's nervy, of course, finding the body, but she's made of stronger stuff and the doctor should find out more about her history before being so quick to prescribe drugs. Mabel's father doesn't care for this new doctor but Mabel laughs it off thinking it's just that her father doesn't like change and thinks no one can be as good as the old doctor. I hope Dr. Finlay is not the murderer. I can't think of a motive and he's a doctor, he's supposed to do no harm. The final suspect would be Oliver Harkin, Annie's estranged husband. It seems fishy he shows up when she's murdered claiming he loved her, yet everyone believes they were estranged. How could he have sneaked into the Hall, found his wife and killed her?
Other servants at the Hall include Campsie, the gardener. He's a bit shy and unsure of himself when he's indoors. He's happy to show off his gardens. Campise has an old bowler hat he claims has gone missing. It may have been worn by the murderer! Is Campsie telling the truth that someone stole his hat? He doesn't know when it went missing or who took it. I trust him though. I don't think he has it in him to kill, plus he doesn't have a motive. Deenie Pilford and Katie Darling are the cooks. Deenie is tough and traditional. She's married and doesn't live in or venture upstairs. Katie is an unrepentant single mother (REALLY? The 1920s?) who can't wait to get away from her kids every day. She seems to be on the prowl for a new man and has set her sights on one of the constables. I think she would eat the poor boy alive! I don't quite trust her and think she might be up to no good sneaking around the house. I don't see a motive for murder though.
The local police constables aren't much help. PC Ned and PC Ted are wet behind the ears. They're young and Ned was mischievous schoolboy when Mabel taught Sunday school! That's very young to be involved in a murder investigation. They don't have much to do except add some lightness to the story. Katie's Aunt Janet is the telephone exchange operator. She loves to gossip but never shares anything she learns from listening in on the phone. She just collects other stories and shares the latest news.
This was an excellent entry in a great series. I shall be sorry to leave Mabel and co. behind. Perhaps her adventures will continue or other Useful Women will come into the picture. I'd like a spinoff with Skeff and Cora, a prequel about Lillian is necessary for sure!
October 28, 2024
I'm always so disappointed when a book I've been eagerly anticipating doesn't work, doubly so in this case as the London Ladies' Murder Club series has proven a big hit for me.
Unfortunately this time Mabel and Co's case didn't click. From the start I felt like this story wasn't one written with the same love and affection that shone through in the first three books. The characters fell flat, as did the mystery and the situation overall felt forced and didn't flow.
With the epilogue it seems that this is the closing part to this short but overall fantastic series. It's closed on a dud for me but I did love seeing how everyone's individual story closed with well deserved happy endings all round and the first three books hold up as favourites in the cosy historical mystery genre.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital review copy of "Murder of a Suffragette" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Unfortunately this time Mabel and Co's case didn't click. From the start I felt like this story wasn't one written with the same love and affection that shone through in the first three books. The characters fell flat, as did the mystery and the situation overall felt forced and didn't flow.
With the epilogue it seems that this is the closing part to this short but overall fantastic series. It's closed on a dud for me but I did love seeing how everyone's individual story closed with well deserved happy endings all round and the first three books hold up as favourites in the cosy historical mystery genre.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a digital review copy of "Murder of a Suffragette" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
September 10, 2025
I never see these endings coming! I am shocked every single time! I didn't particularly like the twist this one took, but overall a very, very great book.
There was a brief time about 70% through the book that I started suspecting someone and I was going to die if it was true. So I'm glad I made it through that!
The author did a nice job wrapping up the series. I enjoyed the characters staying around book to book. Except Rosalind: where the heck did she go?? She should have been included in the wrap-up. It's a minor detail, but one I would have appreciated.
These books would make *excellent* movies! I hope that happens one day.
There was a brief time about 70% through the book that I started suspecting someone and I was going to die if it was true. So I'm glad I made it through that!
The author did a nice job wrapping up the series. I enjoyed the characters staying around book to book. Except Rosalind: where the heck did she go?? She should have been included in the wrap-up. It's a minor detail, but one I would have appreciated.
These books would make *excellent* movies! I hope that happens one day.
October 22, 2024
Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be helping Lady Emma Fellbridge organise a suffragette conference. Peasmarsh village is only a stone’s throw from the hall so Mabel gets tome to spend with her father & Mrs Chandeker. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion leading suffragette Annie Harkin is found murdered in her bed. As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive but the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control. When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club! Inspector Tollington has quite a few cases on the go so isn’t adverse to Mabel, Park, Cora, Skeff & of course Gladys, who steals every scene she’s in, investigating under the watchful eye of WPC Hildy Wardle. Then another body is found.
The fourth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Mabel & co. The I love dynamics in the group as well as the deepening relationship between Park & Mabel. We also get to meet Mabel’s father & ayah. Another very well written cosy mystery which flowed well & the characters had depth. There were twists & turns as well as red herrings. I actually guessed who the villain was but had no idea as to why, so more of a lucky guess. The reasons are gradually revealed. I loved the epilogue & hope it wasn’t a finale as the London Ladies’ Murder Club still has plenty of mileage.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The fourth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Mabel & co. The I love dynamics in the group as well as the deepening relationship between Park & Mabel. We also get to meet Mabel’s father & ayah. Another very well written cosy mystery which flowed well & the characters had depth. There were twists & turns as well as red herrings. I actually guessed who the villain was but had no idea as to why, so more of a lucky guess. The reasons are gradually revealed. I loved the epilogue & hope it wasn’t a finale as the London Ladies’ Murder Club still has plenty of mileage.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
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October 28, 2024A supporter of the women’s right to vote cause, Mabel is excited that she’s been asked to help organize and run a conference for suffragettes. But just as the women are getting settled, one of the guests is found murdered in her bed. The country police officers don’t seem to be up to the task, so Mabel and her friends take the investigation into their own hands.
I have greatly enjoyed all of Marty Wingate’s books, including those in this series. I rarely read consecutive books from one series in the same year, let alone four books in just ten months, but this series is so much fun, I just couldn’t resist. Every time I read Mabel’s name, it brings to mind my grandmother’s sister, and I still can’t decide if that’s good or bad :)
I like Mabel and her friends, but Gladys (the dog) steals the show – and the investigation! – quite often. They all work well together and put their various skills to use in a multitude of different ways. WPC Wardle has come to appreciate Mabel’s insights and information, even though some of her superiors still aren’t sure a woman should be wearing a police uniform.
The victim was discovered before we got to know much about her, so everything we learned was from other sources. Some of those sources were questionable, so it was hard to discern whether the information gathered was reliable or not. Each of the other women at the conference had a possible motive for the murder, but one character caught my eye relatively early in the course of the investigation. I didn’t much like this person, so I was thrilled when my suspicion proved to be correct, even though the motive made me angry.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series when it’s released, if for no other reason than to learn how the events at the end of this book affect things going forward.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I have greatly enjoyed all of Marty Wingate’s books, including those in this series. I rarely read consecutive books from one series in the same year, let alone four books in just ten months, but this series is so much fun, I just couldn’t resist. Every time I read Mabel’s name, it brings to mind my grandmother’s sister, and I still can’t decide if that’s good or bad :)
I like Mabel and her friends, but Gladys (the dog) steals the show – and the investigation! – quite often. They all work well together and put their various skills to use in a multitude of different ways. WPC Wardle has come to appreciate Mabel’s insights and information, even though some of her superiors still aren’t sure a woman should be wearing a police uniform.
The victim was discovered before we got to know much about her, so everything we learned was from other sources. Some of those sources were questionable, so it was hard to discern whether the information gathered was reliable or not. Each of the other women at the conference had a possible motive for the murder, but one character caught my eye relatively early in the course of the investigation. I didn’t much like this person, so I was thrilled when my suspicion proved to be correct, even though the motive made me angry.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series when it’s released, if for no other reason than to learn how the events at the end of this book affect things going forward.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 3, 2024
Murder of a Suffragette follows Lady Detective Mable Canning as she tries to solve another murder. Mabel, being a modern woman has a range of friends who are interested in woman having more say in their lives and is attending a gathering of suffragettes. This book is set at a time when some women have gained the vote, but others are still without a voice.
I loved the historical setting of this book, as well as the mystery itself. Mabel is a woman of her time, but also one who is pushing against the traditional ideals that have been imposed on women. She has a man in her life, but he's there to assist her, not in any way oppress her.
I didn't mange to solve this one, I think that my skills in this area must be slipping. I enjoyed finding out who was behind it all and getting to the reveal it became obvious I'd missed one or two clues along the way.
This was a great read and I'm looking forward to more from Mabel and the London Ladies' Murder Club soon. Especially as this ended in a really quite satisfying way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
I loved the historical setting of this book, as well as the mystery itself. Mabel is a woman of her time, but also one who is pushing against the traditional ideals that have been imposed on women. She has a man in her life, but he's there to assist her, not in any way oppress her.
I didn't mange to solve this one, I think that my skills in this area must be slipping. I enjoyed finding out who was behind it all and getting to the reveal it became obvious I'd missed one or two clues along the way.
This was a great read and I'm looking forward to more from Mabel and the London Ladies' Murder Club soon. Especially as this ended in a really quite satisfying way.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
November 4, 2024
This was the first book of the series I picked up and I found it to be well written and intriguing.
I liked how the characters were not very young or very conservative. Also Mabel seemed to be a level headed person with experience. Also liked the characters of Park and Gladys.
The thing that kind of held me back was that nothing was happening even though everything was happening. I was reading on but the story didn't seem to move on. Also, I kind of guessed the killer early on, though definitely not the motive.
I think this is the last in the series, considering the hints on the epilogue, but if not, I would be happy to continue the series.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked how the characters were not very young or very conservative. Also Mabel seemed to be a level headed person with experience. Also liked the characters of Park and Gladys.
The thing that kind of held me back was that nothing was happening even though everything was happening. I was reading on but the story didn't seem to move on. Also, I kind of guessed the killer early on, though definitely not the motive.
I think this is the last in the series, considering the hints on the epilogue, but if not, I would be happy to continue the series.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 1, 2024
Murder of a Suffragette is the fourth book in the cozy historical mystery series, London Ladies’ Murder Club, but it can be easily read as a stand-alone. Its protagonist, Mabel Canning, moved to London to be independent and has found employment with the Useful Women Agency, which provides any kind of job, but she often finds herself right in the middle of murder investigations.
It’s the year 1922 and Mabel has returned to her village to work as the personal secretary for Lady Fellbridge who is organizing a week-long conference of suffragettes to plan their new campaign for the women’s right to vote. When one of the women is found murdered and the only police available are two constables who seem to have just come out of school, it’s up to Mabel and her London Ladies’ Murder Club to investigate.
I really enjoyed this novel. The mystery is intriguing and full of surprises. The list of suspects is long: was the killer an outsider or was it one of the suffragettes? Or, like in any good mystery novel, was it the butler? Mabel needs to figure it out before someone else gets hurt and helping her are her two friends, Cora and Skeff, her beau and former policeman Park Winstone, and the adorable dog Gladys. Thanks to the presence of Park there is some romance as Mabel introduces him to her protective father for an entertaining family dinner and a surprising epilogue. I also really liked the historical aspects of the novel. In 1918, women over thirty had gained the right to vote, but their fight goes on until they are considered equal to men and have the right to vote at the age of twenty-one.
The London Ladies’ Murder Club series is another fabulous series for historical mystery fans and I am looking forward to more adventures!
It’s the year 1922 and Mabel has returned to her village to work as the personal secretary for Lady Fellbridge who is organizing a week-long conference of suffragettes to plan their new campaign for the women’s right to vote. When one of the women is found murdered and the only police available are two constables who seem to have just come out of school, it’s up to Mabel and her London Ladies’ Murder Club to investigate.
I really enjoyed this novel. The mystery is intriguing and full of surprises. The list of suspects is long: was the killer an outsider or was it one of the suffragettes? Or, like in any good mystery novel, was it the butler? Mabel needs to figure it out before someone else gets hurt and helping her are her two friends, Cora and Skeff, her beau and former policeman Park Winstone, and the adorable dog Gladys. Thanks to the presence of Park there is some romance as Mabel introduces him to her protective father for an entertaining family dinner and a surprising epilogue. I also really liked the historical aspects of the novel. In 1918, women over thirty had gained the right to vote, but their fight goes on until they are considered equal to men and have the right to vote at the age of twenty-one.
The London Ladies’ Murder Club series is another fabulous series for historical mystery fans and I am looking forward to more adventures!
October 25, 2024
As much as it makes Mabel Canning’s father worry about her when she’s on her own in London, it’s clear from this fourth entry in the utterly charming London Ladies’ Murder Club that her home, the tiny village of Peasmarsh and its surrounds, are better off if Mabel is in London.
Not because of Mabel herself, but rather because she seems to have a fortunately unfortunate knack for finding herself in the midst of murder investigations. Peasmarsh’s population is much too small to survive the number of deaths that Mabel and her ‘club’ become involved with on the regular!
As this case is a, well, case in point. Mabel has returned to the Peasmarsh area to serve as the personal secretary to Lady Emma Fellbridge at nearby Fellbridge Hall. Lady Emma has known Mabel all of Mabel’s life, and Mabel was a frequent guest at the hall as her dearest childhood friend was Lady Emma’s daughter-in-law until the Spanish Flu took her much too soon.
Lady Emma was one of the heroines of the suffragette movement, and has convened a meeting of her fellow campaigners at Fellbridge Hall to consider the next phase of their work. At the time this story takes place, 1922, women 30 years of age and over who were property owners or householders, or married to men who were either of the above, or occupiers of rental property over a certain rate, or university graduates had the right to vote, while men could vote from age 21 with considerably fewer restrictions. These women, who once chained themselves to gates and went on hunger strikes in prison, are determined to continue the fight for equality into a new generation.
Mabel and her ‘Murder Club’ have arrived at Fellbridge Hall under the auspices of Miss Kerr’s Useful Women’s Agency for which Mabel works and of which her ‘Murder Club’ is an active part. She’s not expecting for the club to be active at the suffragette meeting – but that’s exactly what happens when one of the suffragettes, in fact, one of the women in contention to become the next leader of the movement, is murdered.
Mabel has more experience with murder investigations than the local police do – and Detective Inspector Tollerton of the Met is just far enough away in London and snowed under with urgent cases in the metropolis to leave Mabel temporarily in charge. Somewhat to his own surprise – and even occasional chagrin – Tolly is forced to leave Mabel leading the investigation, seconded by WPC Hildy Wardle, several members of her Murder Club, and two local constables who desperately need someone to give them orders.
When a second suffragette is murdered, and Mabel herself is attacked twice, she’s certain that she’s on the trail of a murderer – but the clues are misleading at best and confoundingly conflicting at worst. She’ll need the wits, and the skills, of every single member of the London Ladies’ Murder Club to catch the killer – before he strikes again.
Escape Rating A-: I’ve been looking forward to reading this latest entry in the London Ladies’ Murder Club since the minute I finished the previous book, A Body at the Dance Hall. And it absolutely was worth the wait! My one regret about having finished this book is that I don’t know for certain that there will be a next book in the series – or when that MUCH hoped for book will be published. (I have my fingers crossed!)
I’ve fallen for this series because I’ve taken to Mabel Canning as the protagonist. The charm of the series rides very much on her shoulders – and it’s just terrific to follow the investigation from inside her thoughtful, intelligent head.
What makes this series work for me is that Mabel does an excellent job of straddling the line between being a woman of her own time and not ours, while still having a realistic amount of agency to go about her business – which in Mabel’s case is investigating murders.
She does have to reckon with the attitudes towards women’s roles and women’s place, but because of her particular era, just post-World War I, she’s part of a time when things were still in flux because of the war – and because the war killed a generation of young men leaving many women without the prospects of marriage even if they wanted it.
The series does not shy away from the fact that some didn’t, including Mabel’s friends Skeff and Cora, as well as, it turns out, both Lady Emma and the first victim, Annie, even though the earlier generation did follow tradition – at least to all outward appearances. And it’s the degree to which lip service was given to those outward appearances that creates one of the sets of misunderstood clues and red herrings that makes this particular case so juicy.
Another part of the series that works particularly well is the way that it dives into women’s experiences and women’s history. In this particular case, the suffragette movement, its sister movement, the suffragists, and the contention between the two. Suffragettes were the considerably more militant arm of the movement – while suffragists preferred to conduct their campaign via entirely legal means. There existed tension between the two as well as an acknowledgement that some women switched from one to the other (and back and again) over time.
Voting rights for women on the same terms as men was finally granted in 1928, but at the time of this story the fight was not yet won. The question before the gathered women centered on just who would be the best person to lead that fight. The strong personalities of many of the women involved made leadership of the movement a possible motive that Mabel was forced to consider – no matter how much she wished it was not.
Part of what makes Mabel such a fascinating protagonist is the way that she navigates her world, and the push and pull of loving her father and wanting to remain in his good graces – he’s a good man and has been an excellent father – but still NEEDS to live her own life on her own terms gave this entry in the series a very personal touch as well.
Her father wants her to be safe – but he recognizes that safe on his terms is not what his daughter was built for. It was wonderful to see a supportive father-daughter relationship in a female-led historical mystery – as opposed to the more usual situation, where dear-old-dad has often been the impetus for his daughter’s flight from conventionality in one way or another. If not several.
In other words, there are a LOT of reasons why I enjoy the London Ladies’ Murder Club series and this entry is certainly an excellent example of why. I did figure out WHOdunnit a bit early, although the WHYdunnit took a bit longer. I’m here for Mabel Canning, and I hope you will be too. If you haven’t discovered her yet, start with A Body on the Doorstep to see just how the London Ladies’ Murder Club got its start!
Originally published at Reading Reality
Not because of Mabel herself, but rather because she seems to have a fortunately unfortunate knack for finding herself in the midst of murder investigations. Peasmarsh’s population is much too small to survive the number of deaths that Mabel and her ‘club’ become involved with on the regular!
As this case is a, well, case in point. Mabel has returned to the Peasmarsh area to serve as the personal secretary to Lady Emma Fellbridge at nearby Fellbridge Hall. Lady Emma has known Mabel all of Mabel’s life, and Mabel was a frequent guest at the hall as her dearest childhood friend was Lady Emma’s daughter-in-law until the Spanish Flu took her much too soon.
Lady Emma was one of the heroines of the suffragette movement, and has convened a meeting of her fellow campaigners at Fellbridge Hall to consider the next phase of their work. At the time this story takes place, 1922, women 30 years of age and over who were property owners or householders, or married to men who were either of the above, or occupiers of rental property over a certain rate, or university graduates had the right to vote, while men could vote from age 21 with considerably fewer restrictions. These women, who once chained themselves to gates and went on hunger strikes in prison, are determined to continue the fight for equality into a new generation.
Mabel and her ‘Murder Club’ have arrived at Fellbridge Hall under the auspices of Miss Kerr’s Useful Women’s Agency for which Mabel works and of which her ‘Murder Club’ is an active part. She’s not expecting for the club to be active at the suffragette meeting – but that’s exactly what happens when one of the suffragettes, in fact, one of the women in contention to become the next leader of the movement, is murdered.
Mabel has more experience with murder investigations than the local police do – and Detective Inspector Tollerton of the Met is just far enough away in London and snowed under with urgent cases in the metropolis to leave Mabel temporarily in charge. Somewhat to his own surprise – and even occasional chagrin – Tolly is forced to leave Mabel leading the investigation, seconded by WPC Hildy Wardle, several members of her Murder Club, and two local constables who desperately need someone to give them orders.
When a second suffragette is murdered, and Mabel herself is attacked twice, she’s certain that she’s on the trail of a murderer – but the clues are misleading at best and confoundingly conflicting at worst. She’ll need the wits, and the skills, of every single member of the London Ladies’ Murder Club to catch the killer – before he strikes again.
Escape Rating A-: I’ve been looking forward to reading this latest entry in the London Ladies’ Murder Club since the minute I finished the previous book, A Body at the Dance Hall. And it absolutely was worth the wait! My one regret about having finished this book is that I don’t know for certain that there will be a next book in the series – or when that MUCH hoped for book will be published. (I have my fingers crossed!)
I’ve fallen for this series because I’ve taken to Mabel Canning as the protagonist. The charm of the series rides very much on her shoulders – and it’s just terrific to follow the investigation from inside her thoughtful, intelligent head.
What makes this series work for me is that Mabel does an excellent job of straddling the line between being a woman of her own time and not ours, while still having a realistic amount of agency to go about her business – which in Mabel’s case is investigating murders.
She does have to reckon with the attitudes towards women’s roles and women’s place, but because of her particular era, just post-World War I, she’s part of a time when things were still in flux because of the war – and because the war killed a generation of young men leaving many women without the prospects of marriage even if they wanted it.
The series does not shy away from the fact that some didn’t, including Mabel’s friends Skeff and Cora, as well as, it turns out, both Lady Emma and the first victim, Annie, even though the earlier generation did follow tradition – at least to all outward appearances. And it’s the degree to which lip service was given to those outward appearances that creates one of the sets of misunderstood clues and red herrings that makes this particular case so juicy.
Another part of the series that works particularly well is the way that it dives into women’s experiences and women’s history. In this particular case, the suffragette movement, its sister movement, the suffragists, and the contention between the two. Suffragettes were the considerably more militant arm of the movement – while suffragists preferred to conduct their campaign via entirely legal means. There existed tension between the two as well as an acknowledgement that some women switched from one to the other (and back and again) over time.
Voting rights for women on the same terms as men was finally granted in 1928, but at the time of this story the fight was not yet won. The question before the gathered women centered on just who would be the best person to lead that fight. The strong personalities of many of the women involved made leadership of the movement a possible motive that Mabel was forced to consider – no matter how much she wished it was not.
Part of what makes Mabel such a fascinating protagonist is the way that she navigates her world, and the push and pull of loving her father and wanting to remain in his good graces – he’s a good man and has been an excellent father – but still NEEDS to live her own life on her own terms gave this entry in the series a very personal touch as well.
Her father wants her to be safe – but he recognizes that safe on his terms is not what his daughter was built for. It was wonderful to see a supportive father-daughter relationship in a female-led historical mystery – as opposed to the more usual situation, where dear-old-dad has often been the impetus for his daughter’s flight from conventionality in one way or another. If not several.
In other words, there are a LOT of reasons why I enjoy the London Ladies’ Murder Club series and this entry is certainly an excellent example of why. I did figure out WHOdunnit a bit early, although the WHYdunnit took a bit longer. I’m here for Mabel Canning, and I hope you will be too. If you haven’t discovered her yet, start with A Body on the Doorstep to see just how the London Ladies’ Murder Club got its start!
Originally published at Reading Reality
October 26, 2024
Marty Wingate’s Murder of a Suffragette is the fourth book in her London Ladies' Murder Club Book series – and it’s another highly enjoyable read. Mabel Canning works for the Useful Women Agency and her latest assignment is to act as private secretary to Lady Fellbridge. Fellbridge Hall is in the village where Mabel grew up and Lady Fellbridge (Emma) was the mother-in-law of her late friend, Edith. This means that Mabel will be able to pop home and see her father and introduce him to her beau, Park Winstone. Although no reason is given for Park being there too, we have to assume he’s simply taken the opportunity of Mabel working near home to join her and to be introduced to her father. Emma is hosting a meeting of several long-time suffragettes (who believed in action) and suffragists (who believed in constitutional or peaceable change) and Mabel has the unenviable task of trying to organise the gaggle of women.
As one might expect in books that have “Murder” in the title, one of women doesn’t make it to tea-time on the first day. There are also some murderous attacks. The women were going to vote for a leader: is someone trying to eliminate rivals? Or is it an outsider who doesn’t like suffragettes (or, indeed, doesn’t like women at all)? And – completely unrelated to the previous sentences – there is a major character called Doctor Finlay! I know I’m showing my age, but for those of us who remember BBC TV in the 1960s, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was mandatory viewing on, I think, Sunday evenings. Ah, who remembers Janet, the housekeeper, telling the good doctor, “Ah, Dr Finlay, your kidneys are in the oven.”? I have just discovered, thanks to Internet, that Barbara Mullen, who played the very Scottish Janet McPherson, was born and lived in Boston until she was 20. What a great actress!
It is lovely that all the members of the London Ladies’ Murder Club are in the book: Skeff, the journalist and her partner, Cora, the milliner; Hildy Wardle, the WPC; Park Winstone and, of course, his dog, Gladys. Oh, and those of you who have followed the series since Book One, you will delighted to know that the Just William of this world, Augustus Malling-Frobisher III, foists himself upon Mabel for a large part of the book. And we are introduced to local PC Ned Cowley, who bravely (and unprompted) confesses what he did to his Sunday School teacher Mable Canning eleven years earlier…
If you appreciate costume, you will relish the way the author always – but always – slips in descriptions such as Mabel wearing “… a belted number with a scalloped tunic over the skirt and quire a reasonable neckline for company. Its colour, a sealing-wax red, seemed to suit her brown hair…”
I don’t like the adjective “cosy” when applied to murders. Real murders are unbelievably distressing and awful for everyone associated with them in any way. However, I do accept that some books are, indeed, “cosy”, regardless of the subject matter, and this is one of them. If you’ve followed the series – and I strongly recommend that you read them all, in order - it’s a hug in a book. It achieves this by showing us a set of likeable characters who have previously restored order (i.e. they have solved mysteries and brought the guilty to justice, thus making our world a safer place). They care for each other and so we know, that if one of them is in jeopardy, the others will save them. Unlike the Harry Potter books, we cannot imagine a world without one of them. When we read about them, we feel secure and comforted.
#MurderofaSuffragette #NetGalley.
As one might expect in books that have “Murder” in the title, one of women doesn’t make it to tea-time on the first day. There are also some murderous attacks. The women were going to vote for a leader: is someone trying to eliminate rivals? Or is it an outsider who doesn’t like suffragettes (or, indeed, doesn’t like women at all)? And – completely unrelated to the previous sentences – there is a major character called Doctor Finlay! I know I’m showing my age, but for those of us who remember BBC TV in the 1960s, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was mandatory viewing on, I think, Sunday evenings. Ah, who remembers Janet, the housekeeper, telling the good doctor, “Ah, Dr Finlay, your kidneys are in the oven.”? I have just discovered, thanks to Internet, that Barbara Mullen, who played the very Scottish Janet McPherson, was born and lived in Boston until she was 20. What a great actress!
It is lovely that all the members of the London Ladies’ Murder Club are in the book: Skeff, the journalist and her partner, Cora, the milliner; Hildy Wardle, the WPC; Park Winstone and, of course, his dog, Gladys. Oh, and those of you who have followed the series since Book One, you will delighted to know that the Just William of this world, Augustus Malling-Frobisher III, foists himself upon Mabel for a large part of the book. And we are introduced to local PC Ned Cowley, who bravely (and unprompted) confesses what he did to his Sunday School teacher Mable Canning eleven years earlier…
If you appreciate costume, you will relish the way the author always – but always – slips in descriptions such as Mabel wearing “… a belted number with a scalloped tunic over the skirt and quire a reasonable neckline for company. Its colour, a sealing-wax red, seemed to suit her brown hair…”
I don’t like the adjective “cosy” when applied to murders. Real murders are unbelievably distressing and awful for everyone associated with them in any way. However, I do accept that some books are, indeed, “cosy”, regardless of the subject matter, and this is one of them. If you’ve followed the series – and I strongly recommend that you read them all, in order - it’s a hug in a book. It achieves this by showing us a set of likeable characters who have previously restored order (i.e. they have solved mysteries and brought the guilty to justice, thus making our world a safer place). They care for each other and so we know, that if one of them is in jeopardy, the others will save them. Unlike the Harry Potter books, we cannot imagine a world without one of them. When we read about them, we feel secure and comforted.
#MurderofaSuffragette #NetGalley.
November 4, 2024
4 Stars
One Liner: Entertaining; with a little happy surprise!
1922
Mabel Canning is the acting secretary of Lady Fellbridge and is organizing the suffragette meeting on the estate. Many women who had been in the movement attended the event. Everything seems well until Annie Hatkins, Lady Fellbridge’s best friend and a leading suffragette is murdered in her bed.
As Mabel (with help from her beau Park and her friends, Cora and Skeff) starts to investigate the crime, she realizes the truth lies somewhere in the past during the peak of the suffragette movement. Can Mabel find out what happened and expose the killer before more lives are lost?
The story comes in Mabel’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The fourth book of the series should work as a standalone read but I’d recommend reading at least the previous book if not all. The story takes place in the FMC’s hometown (village) with local characters and her friends from the city.
After reading a few books that have the suffragette background, I found that there was still more to learn about the movement. There are two types of protestors – Suffragettes and Suffragists. While the former was actively engaged in the movement (marches, protests, and even being jailed), the latter chose peaceful methods (lobbying, NGOs, etc.) to get what they wanted. Both worked for the same cause but in different ways.
Lady Fellbridge’s estate is where the major events take place. The Hall has a history and the design is quite complicated. We do get enough to have a vague idea but I felt a rough map (the one mentioned in the story) would have helped.
Inspector Tolly seems to have finally given up. Likely that he realized it’s easier to let Mabel do her sleuthing. It saves him work, after all! I’m glad that Constable Wardle (Hildy) gets a bigger role. Being a woman constable is not a small thing.
The mystery is actually good. It took me a while to figure out who the killer was. Though I still didn’t know the reason, but suspected a little (overactive imagination and all that). The reveal did make sense and tried up with the rest of the details.
We finally get to meet Reg Canning and Mrs. Chandekar in this book. She is an absolute darling! (Apparently, her first name is Moti. So, Moti with a hard t sound would mean fat; Moti with a soft t sound, Mothi, would mean a pearl. I presume it’s the latter but I did wonder the first time I saw the name. Unfortunately, some people write Moti even for pearl, so that might have led to that spelling in the book.)
The surprise element is the little mischievous kid from the previous books. He is very much present in at least 30-40% of the book and brings a lot of smiles and chuckles.
The way the book ended makes me wonder if this will be the last in the series. We are at the brink now. It could end and would make sense, or it could continue and offer more cases I’m okay with either, though I would like to read at least another three books to see how Mabel handles the new responsibilities.
To summarize, Murder of a Suffragette is a steady-paced entertainer with some danger, mischief, and drama. It is a lighthearted read that tackles a few important topics.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderOfASuffragette
One Liner: Entertaining; with a little happy surprise!
1922
Mabel Canning is the acting secretary of Lady Fellbridge and is organizing the suffragette meeting on the estate. Many women who had been in the movement attended the event. Everything seems well until Annie Hatkins, Lady Fellbridge’s best friend and a leading suffragette is murdered in her bed.
As Mabel (with help from her beau Park and her friends, Cora and Skeff) starts to investigate the crime, she realizes the truth lies somewhere in the past during the peak of the suffragette movement. Can Mabel find out what happened and expose the killer before more lives are lost?
The story comes in Mabel’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The fourth book of the series should work as a standalone read but I’d recommend reading at least the previous book if not all. The story takes place in the FMC’s hometown (village) with local characters and her friends from the city.
After reading a few books that have the suffragette background, I found that there was still more to learn about the movement. There are two types of protestors – Suffragettes and Suffragists. While the former was actively engaged in the movement (marches, protests, and even being jailed), the latter chose peaceful methods (lobbying, NGOs, etc.) to get what they wanted. Both worked for the same cause but in different ways.
Lady Fellbridge’s estate is where the major events take place. The Hall has a history and the design is quite complicated. We do get enough to have a vague idea but I felt a rough map (the one mentioned in the story) would have helped.
Inspector Tolly seems to have finally given up. Likely that he realized it’s easier to let Mabel do her sleuthing. It saves him work, after all! I’m glad that Constable Wardle (Hildy) gets a bigger role. Being a woman constable is not a small thing.
The mystery is actually good. It took me a while to figure out who the killer was. Though I still didn’t know the reason, but suspected a little (overactive imagination and all that). The reveal did make sense and tried up with the rest of the details.
We finally get to meet Reg Canning and Mrs. Chandekar in this book. She is an absolute darling! (Apparently, her first name is Moti. So, Moti with a hard t sound would mean fat; Moti with a soft t sound, Mothi, would mean a pearl. I presume it’s the latter but I did wonder the first time I saw the name. Unfortunately, some people write Moti even for pearl, so that might have led to that spelling in the book.)
The surprise element is the little mischievous kid from the previous books. He is very much present in at least 30-40% of the book and brings a lot of smiles and chuckles.
The way the book ended makes me wonder if this will be the last in the series. We are at the brink now. It could end and would make sense, or it could continue and offer more cases I’m okay with either, though I would like to read at least another three books to see how Mabel handles the new responsibilities.
To summarize, Murder of a Suffragette is a steady-paced entertainer with some danger, mischief, and drama. It is a lighthearted read that tackles a few important topics.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderOfASuffragette
August 14, 2025
Mabel Canning works for Miss Kerr who runs the Useful Women Agency in London and Mabel has been tasked with setting up a sub-division for people who need help in dealing with police matters. She is asked to help organise a conference for suffragettes at Fellbridge Manor, and as someone who is a believer in women working and earning their own money she is more than happy to help. It is also handy to be close to her father and his housekeeper who live close to the Manor in the small sleepy Sussex village of Peasmarsh, I lived in the equally small sleepy village next door to Peasmarsh (previous home of Paul McCartney) once upon a time! But we never had any murders.
She has barely time to register the arrrival of the members when one of them, Annie Harkin, has been found dead on her bed, smothered by a feather pillow. Mabel asks someone to ring Rye police station as it's the nearest but they were only able to send 2 young police officers to help with the safety of the women. Love this as today Rye police station is only open for a few hours 3 days a week I think, barely worth opening up the building, anyway this book is a work of fiction so let's move on!
The London policeman and his team who cover this area for any serious crimes arising are busy finishing off something else so Detective Inspector Tollerton asks Mabel if she will start the round of interviewing the staff and suffragettes before he has a chance to get there. Mabel was thrilled at being tasked to do this by the senior police officer with whom she has spent the past year working alongside.
She begins interviewing and then another woman is found dead amongst the bluebells. One dead suffragette could be counted as an "oh dear" moment, but two?? No! Before Tollerton can get to them Mabel is feeling anxious about her own safety and that of the woman attending the conference. Help arrives in the coming of woman police officer Hildy Wardle and 2 local young policemen, and after them her boyfriend Park Winstone along with his gorgeous small doggie Gladys. In my mind's eye I picture Gladys as being a west highland terrier as she fits the description except west highland terriers are white and Gladys is toffee-ish. No matter, she turns out to be a big help in each of the books. Also caught up in this now is Augustus a young lad whom Mabel had previously helped his mother out with his care.
The plot moves along with a faster pace and Mabel is seriously worried but help finally arrives with Inspector Tollerton and his team. I have to say that I didn't see it coming who the murderer was but the book and the series ended up with something really uplifting after all this doom and gloom, and I wasn't surprised by that ending this time!! I came across this series by accident and am glad I did, thoroughly loved it and the characters and the place settings. Well worth reading if you like reading about strong women standing up for themselves, and enjoy murders of course!!
She has barely time to register the arrrival of the members when one of them, Annie Harkin, has been found dead on her bed, smothered by a feather pillow. Mabel asks someone to ring Rye police station as it's the nearest but they were only able to send 2 young police officers to help with the safety of the women. Love this as today Rye police station is only open for a few hours 3 days a week I think, barely worth opening up the building, anyway this book is a work of fiction so let's move on!
The London policeman and his team who cover this area for any serious crimes arising are busy finishing off something else so Detective Inspector Tollerton asks Mabel if she will start the round of interviewing the staff and suffragettes before he has a chance to get there. Mabel was thrilled at being tasked to do this by the senior police officer with whom she has spent the past year working alongside.
She begins interviewing and then another woman is found dead amongst the bluebells. One dead suffragette could be counted as an "oh dear" moment, but two?? No! Before Tollerton can get to them Mabel is feeling anxious about her own safety and that of the woman attending the conference. Help arrives in the coming of woman police officer Hildy Wardle and 2 local young policemen, and after them her boyfriend Park Winstone along with his gorgeous small doggie Gladys. In my mind's eye I picture Gladys as being a west highland terrier as she fits the description except west highland terriers are white and Gladys is toffee-ish. No matter, she turns out to be a big help in each of the books. Also caught up in this now is Augustus a young lad whom Mabel had previously helped his mother out with his care.
The plot moves along with a faster pace and Mabel is seriously worried but help finally arrives with Inspector Tollerton and his team. I have to say that I didn't see it coming who the murderer was but the book and the series ended up with something really uplifting after all this doom and gloom, and I wasn't surprised by that ending this time!! I came across this series by accident and am glad I did, thoroughly loved it and the characters and the place settings. Well worth reading if you like reading about strong women standing up for themselves, and enjoy murders of course!!
November 7, 2024
Murder of a Suffragette by Marty Wingate sees Mabel Canning, in her persona as a temporary secretary from the Useful Women agency, is assisting in a meeting of former suffragettes and suffragists, the goal being to select a leader for the new push forward. The last woman has arrived and is greeted, not as warmly as some had been, and shortly went to her room, after offering to switch to accommodate another guest. In a while she was discovered dead by another participant. Mabel knew immediately she had bee suffocated, but called the local doctor for confirmation. Things heated up fast. She transformed into the investigator persona, while also play the part of daughter as her parents lived nearby, and nanny, as Augustus had turned up after slipping his minders. It was a school holiday and her father, Reg, and her surrogate mother, Mrs. Chandekar seemed to like Augustus so he stayed with them much of the time. Park was also there and held the ladies from the murder room until Tolly, Detective Inspector Tollerton from Scotland Yard, arrived.
This got very complicated, very quickly and Mabel was pushed to figure it all out. Thankfully she had the other members of the London Ladies Murder Club to help her out. She is an excellent character, one who is benefiting from those women that came before and paved the way for an independent woman, such as she. She has weaknesses, though, and among them are Park and Augustus. The scenes with Augustus at the green grocers with her father are particularly amusing as well as poignant. Poor Augustus. He chose his parents poorly. Mabel is nothing if not efficient and well-organized or she could never accomplish all she does. She is quite the character, and solves this mystery quite handily. It is a complicated story with lots of moving parts and Wingate manages to write it so well that the reader can keep track. Interesting book.
I was invited to read Murder of a Suffragette by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #MartyWingate #MurderOfASuffragette
This got very complicated, very quickly and Mabel was pushed to figure it all out. Thankfully she had the other members of the London Ladies Murder Club to help her out. She is an excellent character, one who is benefiting from those women that came before and paved the way for an independent woman, such as she. She has weaknesses, though, and among them are Park and Augustus. The scenes with Augustus at the green grocers with her father are particularly amusing as well as poignant. Poor Augustus. He chose his parents poorly. Mabel is nothing if not efficient and well-organized or she could never accomplish all she does. She is quite the character, and solves this mystery quite handily. It is a complicated story with lots of moving parts and Wingate manages to write it so well that the reader can keep track. Interesting book.
I was invited to read Murder of a Suffragette by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #MartyWingate #MurderOfASuffragette
October 29, 2024
It’s 1922, and Mabel Canning has been hired through Miss Kerr’s Useful Women Agency to serve as personal secretary to Lady Emma Fellbridge at Fellbridge Hall, in England. Lady Emma is organizing a suffragette conference at her home and has invited women who have fought so bravely over the last many years. Mabel is delighted to return to Fellbridge because it is close to her home village of Peasmarsh. Before passing away from the Spanish flu, Mabel’s dearest friend was the daughter-in-law to Lady Emma,so Mabel has many memories of visiting Fellbridge Hall.
At the time of this story, some women 30 years of age and over had the right to vote with a list of restrictions. The women convening for the conference are to decide what are the next best steps to continue the fight for equal voting rights for all women.
Unfortunately, Mabel has barely finished checking in all the women for the conference when one of the lead suffragette’s is found murdered in her bed. Is the killer someone at the conference? While Inspector Tolly from London has his hands full with crime in the city, Lady Emma begs Mabel to begin the investigation. And it wouldn’t be a solid mystery if another body didn’t appear. Can Mabel solve the mystery before it’s too late?
This was a fun entry into the series because it took Mabel and friends outside of London and her lovely little flat. While I missed those details, I enjoyed seeing Mabel flourish in a new to us setting. It was also delightful to see her father in his home and store. I appreciated all my favorite characters from the previous books were a part of this story too. I did so love the epilogue but I’m a little worried that means it’s the end of the series…
At the time of this story, some women 30 years of age and over had the right to vote with a list of restrictions. The women convening for the conference are to decide what are the next best steps to continue the fight for equal voting rights for all women.
Unfortunately, Mabel has barely finished checking in all the women for the conference when one of the lead suffragette’s is found murdered in her bed. Is the killer someone at the conference? While Inspector Tolly from London has his hands full with crime in the city, Lady Emma begs Mabel to begin the investigation. And it wouldn’t be a solid mystery if another body didn’t appear. Can Mabel solve the mystery before it’s too late?
This was a fun entry into the series because it took Mabel and friends outside of London and her lovely little flat. While I missed those details, I enjoyed seeing Mabel flourish in a new to us setting. It was also delightful to see her father in his home and store. I appreciated all my favorite characters from the previous books were a part of this story too. I did so love the epilogue but I’m a little worried that means it’s the end of the series…
September 25, 2024
Mabel Canning and her friends who make up the London Ladies' Murder Club are back in their fourth mystery. This time they're in Mabel's old neighborhood as she takes a job as an event coordinator for a conference of suffragettes at the estate on the edge of the village where she grew up. Cora and Skeff are in attendance and Park (the token male in the group) and dog Gladys are staying in the village. As the women arrive, it doesn't take long for tensions to erupt, but things are soon smoothed over--until, that is, one of the new arrivals is found dead in her room. Although Scotland Yard is called in and a couple of local constables are on the scene, Mabel takes charge of the investigation, with her team there to lend a hand. Can they get to the bottom of things before more people are hurt?
I am always happy to see a new book in this series and this one was no exception. I really enjoy the ways in which the characters develop and in this book, we meet people from Mabel's life before she moved to London, which opened up a whole other dimension. As always, Gladys is there to provide some laughs. Mabel continues to grow in confidence. The historical aspects to the story are always enjoyable to read and in this one, set in 1922, certain British women have gotten the right to vote, but the suffragettes and suffragists continue to fight for the right to vote for all women. The 'Letters from Marty' section at the end of the books are always informative and interesting. The mystery was well plotted and the pace was perfect. In short, this is a top-notch historical cozy mystery--5 stars.
I thank the NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a digital review copy.
I am always happy to see a new book in this series and this one was no exception. I really enjoy the ways in which the characters develop and in this book, we meet people from Mabel's life before she moved to London, which opened up a whole other dimension. As always, Gladys is there to provide some laughs. Mabel continues to grow in confidence. The historical aspects to the story are always enjoyable to read and in this one, set in 1922, certain British women have gotten the right to vote, but the suffragettes and suffragists continue to fight for the right to vote for all women. The 'Letters from Marty' section at the end of the books are always informative and interesting. The mystery was well plotted and the pace was perfect. In short, this is a top-notch historical cozy mystery--5 stars.
I thank the NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a digital review copy.
October 28, 2024
I thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advance reader copy of Murder of a Suffragette. All opinions and comments are my own
The anguish, agony, and personal consequences of the fight to get women the vote in the early days of the 20th century in the UK is key to the events in Murder of a Suffragette, the fourth in the “Ladies’ London Murder Club” series by Marty Wingate. Before Mabel Canning, who runs the Private Investigations Division of the Useful Women agency, can find out what’s behind the going’s on, and most importantly, who, two women, both involved in the “Deeds, Not Words” movement, will be dead.
Characterization is key to the author’s style, and there’s plenty of that to go around in the book. And that means there’s plenty of suspects to wonder about, always a plus for readers. Mabel also has the advantage of having her Ladies’ Murder Club members and the eye-catching Park Winstone to assist with figuring out all the whys and wherefores, since Inspector Tollerton has given her the go-ahead to conduct a murder investigation after the first victim is found dead.
It takes a while, and we do get a second victim, but eventually Mabel has it all well in hand. And justice is served, for someone who really deserves to be caught. After that we have a big finish, with everyone eating at Mabel’s father’s house. It’s a wonderful end to a delightfully put together story with standout characters and plenty of imagination to keep readers thinking throughout. There’s news on a personal front that should make people happy, too. Now, on to more “work” for the “Ladies’ London Murder Club” and the Useful Women agency.
The anguish, agony, and personal consequences of the fight to get women the vote in the early days of the 20th century in the UK is key to the events in Murder of a Suffragette, the fourth in the “Ladies’ London Murder Club” series by Marty Wingate. Before Mabel Canning, who runs the Private Investigations Division of the Useful Women agency, can find out what’s behind the going’s on, and most importantly, who, two women, both involved in the “Deeds, Not Words” movement, will be dead.
Characterization is key to the author’s style, and there’s plenty of that to go around in the book. And that means there’s plenty of suspects to wonder about, always a plus for readers. Mabel also has the advantage of having her Ladies’ Murder Club members and the eye-catching Park Winstone to assist with figuring out all the whys and wherefores, since Inspector Tollerton has given her the go-ahead to conduct a murder investigation after the first victim is found dead.
It takes a while, and we do get a second victim, but eventually Mabel has it all well in hand. And justice is served, for someone who really deserves to be caught. After that we have a big finish, with everyone eating at Mabel’s father’s house. It’s a wonderful end to a delightfully put together story with standout characters and plenty of imagination to keep readers thinking throughout. There’s news on a personal front that should make people happy, too. Now, on to more “work” for the “Ladies’ London Murder Club” and the Useful Women agency.
October 27, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Marty Wingate for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder of a Suffragette coming out October 28, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be organising a suffragette conference. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion, she barely has time for a sip of gin before chaos ensues. Leading suffragette Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed, clutching a white feather in her outstretched hand…
As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive in time to trip over the banners and be roundly ignored. And with a killer on the loose, the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control. When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club!
But soon it’s clear many a suffragette is hiding a secret under her sash. Eccentric veteran of the cause Dorothea Goose is acting rather flighty; why is she so afraid of the police? Would Annie’s rival go this far to replace her as leader? Or has someone taken a life to stop the cause of women’s lib?
I really love this series! I thought this one had an interesting topic with the suffragette movement. It was definitely an exciting time in history for women. I loved the mystery! Mabel is a really strong, intelligent character. I love that each book has a different event or focus. Mabel is definitely coming into her own as a detective. I think the book was quick-paced and fun. I’m definitely excited for the next book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys British cozy mysteries!
Fellbridge Hall, England: Mabel Canning is thrilled to be organising a suffragette conference. But when all the women are settled in the sprawling country mansion, she barely has time for a sip of gin before chaos ensues. Leading suffragette Annie Harkin has been found murdered in her bed, clutching a white feather in her outstretched hand…
As the guests clamour for justice for Annie, young police officers Ned and Ted arrive in time to trip over the banners and be roundly ignored. And with a killer on the loose, the suffragettes swiftly vote for Mabel and her pals to take control. When it comes to solving mysteries, there’s nobody equal to the London Ladies’ Murder Club!
But soon it’s clear many a suffragette is hiding a secret under her sash. Eccentric veteran of the cause Dorothea Goose is acting rather flighty; why is she so afraid of the police? Would Annie’s rival go this far to replace her as leader? Or has someone taken a life to stop the cause of women’s lib?
I really love this series! I thought this one had an interesting topic with the suffragette movement. It was definitely an exciting time in history for women. I loved the mystery! Mabel is a really strong, intelligent character. I love that each book has a different event or focus. Mabel is definitely coming into her own as a detective. I think the book was quick-paced and fun. I’m definitely excited for the next book!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys British cozy mysteries!
October 31, 2024
"Murder Of A Suffragette" is book #4 in the "London Ladies Murder Club" series by Marty Wingate.
My thoughts:
Mabel is helping to organize a group of women for discussions to further the suffragette movement in 1922 England, when one of the group is found dead not long after they've all arrived. As always, Mabel is keen to use her detection skills to help the police find the killer. To add to the story, the group happens to be meeting at the home of a long time acquaintance of Mabel and her own family is very near by. Of course, Cora, Skeff, Park and the adorable pooch Gladys are also in attendance. The local head policeman is off sick, so DI Tollerton is called in from London.
It is curious that one of the women is killed so quickly and disturbing when another is found dead a few days later. There are also attacks on a couple of people. Sorting out whether it was one of the group, someone of the household staff or someone outside makes them all a bit uneasy.
With the help of her friends, Mabel gathers information and eventually their combined efforts - along with some help from Gladys and an unexpected visit from the encourageable, young Augustus, they unravel the clues that lead to a killer. I did suspect who was behind it all but wasn't sure as to why until the killer was caught.
I really enjoy the core characters of this series. Diversity and strong independent women - and the men who support them - are a wonderful mix which makes for a very interesting as well as entertaining story.
My thoughts:
Mabel is helping to organize a group of women for discussions to further the suffragette movement in 1922 England, when one of the group is found dead not long after they've all arrived. As always, Mabel is keen to use her detection skills to help the police find the killer. To add to the story, the group happens to be meeting at the home of a long time acquaintance of Mabel and her own family is very near by. Of course, Cora, Skeff, Park and the adorable pooch Gladys are also in attendance. The local head policeman is off sick, so DI Tollerton is called in from London.
It is curious that one of the women is killed so quickly and disturbing when another is found dead a few days later. There are also attacks on a couple of people. Sorting out whether it was one of the group, someone of the household staff or someone outside makes them all a bit uneasy.
With the help of her friends, Mabel gathers information and eventually their combined efforts - along with some help from Gladys and an unexpected visit from the encourageable, young Augustus, they unravel the clues that lead to a killer. I did suspect who was behind it all but wasn't sure as to why until the killer was caught.
I really enjoy the core characters of this series. Diversity and strong independent women - and the men who support them - are a wonderful mix which makes for a very interesting as well as entertaining story.
October 3, 2024
Murder of a Suffrage by Marty Wingate, the 4th installment in her London Ladies Mystery Club Series, was another good cozy mystery. As murder strikes at a suffragette gathering of friends in an old country manor house, the story escalates as Mable and her boyfriend work behind the scenes to help solve the mystery because of a lack of police effort to uncover the murderer. The story is full of plot twists and turns; the setting is vivid and believable, but the characters had me backtracking a great deal to ensure I knew ‘who was who.’ I chalked this up to having not read the first three books in the series before I read this one. The dialogue is well done and adds to the pacing, keeping me interested.
With so many quirky characters to get to know, I plan to read the first three books in the series and re-read this one. It just didn’t work for me as a standalone. But that was no fault of the author. Readers need to read the previous books in the series for smoother reading.
It was a four-star read all around. I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the series' first three books and future tales. I highly recommend this author to anyone who loves a cozy murder mystery as a diversion from daily life.
I want to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, for the opportunity to get to know another talented writer in the cozy murder mystery genre. I received this as an advanced copy. This review is voluntary and mine alone.
With so many quirky characters to get to know, I plan to read the first three books in the series and re-read this one. It just didn’t work for me as a standalone. But that was no fault of the author. Readers need to read the previous books in the series for smoother reading.
It was a four-star read all around. I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the series' first three books and future tales. I highly recommend this author to anyone who loves a cozy murder mystery as a diversion from daily life.
I want to thank Net Galley, the publisher, and the author, for the opportunity to get to know another talented writer in the cozy murder mystery genre. I received this as an advanced copy. This review is voluntary and mine alone.
October 28, 2024
The first three installments of the London Ladies Murder Club series were delightful cozies, but the fourth book, Murder of a Suffragette, left me a bit disappointed. From the get-go, the story seemed to drop me right into the action without the usual build-up or context. I even checked twice to see if I'd missed a prologue.
The story takes place in 1922, and instead of the familiar backdrop of London, we’re whisked off to a manor house near Mabel's home. English women over 30 now have the right to vote, but there's still a fight for equal voting rights for all women. Suffragette stalwarts have gathered to choose a new leader and plot their next move – until one of them ends up dead. Mabel, ever the curious investigator, finds herself in the middle of a mystery once again.
There’s a lot of the familiar cast returning, from Mabel's love interest Park, to her London neighbors Cora and Skeff, and of course, the lovable dog Gladys. We also get some fresh faces, like Mabel’s father and Mrs. Chandekar, who raised her. And if you loved Augustus, the mischievous boy from earlier books, he’s back too.
While I appreciated the historical tidbits about the suffrage movement (did you know suffragists and suffragettes aren't the same thing?), the mystery itself felt a bit underwhelming. It seems like the series is wrapping up, and though I’m sad to see it go, I wish it had concluded on a stronger note. A decent read, but missing the spark of the earlier books.
The story takes place in 1922, and instead of the familiar backdrop of London, we’re whisked off to a manor house near Mabel's home. English women over 30 now have the right to vote, but there's still a fight for equal voting rights for all women. Suffragette stalwarts have gathered to choose a new leader and plot their next move – until one of them ends up dead. Mabel, ever the curious investigator, finds herself in the middle of a mystery once again.
There’s a lot of the familiar cast returning, from Mabel's love interest Park, to her London neighbors Cora and Skeff, and of course, the lovable dog Gladys. We also get some fresh faces, like Mabel’s father and Mrs. Chandekar, who raised her. And if you loved Augustus, the mischievous boy from earlier books, he’s back too.
While I appreciated the historical tidbits about the suffrage movement (did you know suffragists and suffragettes aren't the same thing?), the mystery itself felt a bit underwhelming. It seems like the series is wrapping up, and though I’m sad to see it go, I wish it had concluded on a stronger note. A decent read, but missing the spark of the earlier books.
October 31, 2024
In this 4th book in the series, Mabel Canning has taken an assignment from the Useful Women agency in her home village with Lady Fellbridge AKA Emma AKA mother-in-law to Mabel's now deceased friend Edith. Emma is hosting a Suffragette conference and Mabel is there with friends Cora and Skeff as well as her beau, Park Winstone. (I am very partial to him, as he reminds me of my Uncle Park who always greeted me with "How's my favorite neice?" Sorry, other neices!)
Shortly after everyone has arrived and found their rooms, Annie Harkins is found dead, smothered with a pillow. Was it one of the other Suffragettes, her estranged husband, her cousin, the butler, or someone from outside. Was it personal or did the murderer hate Suffragettes? A second murder complicates matters, as does the arrival of 8 year old Augustus Malling-Frobisher, another recurring assignment of Mabel's.
Eventually, Mabel with family and friends sometimes help and sometimes interferance, the culprit is unmasked.
This is a great series with great characters, done with humor and staying true to the era. I think Mabel would be a great friend to have. I enjoy how her friends lend their particular skills to whatever she is currently working on. Park is a great guy who believes in Mabel and supports her in even her wilder escapades (and frequently participates) Even her dad is behind her all the way, even as he wants to protect her.
A really good read!
Shortly after everyone has arrived and found their rooms, Annie Harkins is found dead, smothered with a pillow. Was it one of the other Suffragettes, her estranged husband, her cousin, the butler, or someone from outside. Was it personal or did the murderer hate Suffragettes? A second murder complicates matters, as does the arrival of 8 year old Augustus Malling-Frobisher, another recurring assignment of Mabel's.
Eventually, Mabel with family and friends sometimes help and sometimes interferance, the culprit is unmasked.
This is a great series with great characters, done with humor and staying true to the era. I think Mabel would be a great friend to have. I enjoy how her friends lend their particular skills to whatever she is currently working on. Park is a great guy who believes in Mabel and supports her in even her wilder escapades (and frequently participates) Even her dad is behind her all the way, even as he wants to protect her.
A really good read!
December 21, 2024
1922, Mabel is hired to act as a private secretary at a conference for suffragettes. One of the potential leaders is murdered shortly after arrival and Mabel calls upon her London Ladies' Murder Club to help her investigate while they wait for the police...
Murder of a Suffragette is the 4th book in the Mabel Canning series of cosy murder mysteries set in the 1920s.
Annie Harkin has always been prominent among the suffragettes and it has negatively impacted her health. But she still believes she has the strength to lead them again and joins the conference where she is killed before the members elect a leader. Luckily Mabel is on hand to start off the murder investigation while the ladies wait for the police to arrive. She is joined by her neighbours who have helped her in the past.
Mabel has had a thoroughly modern outlook throughout the series so I enjoyed seeing her alongside the suffragettes. Her romanctic relationship with Park continues to simmer and add an extra dimension as a subplot. Mabel has a number of suspects and motives to explore. There is little violence as you would expect from the cosy genre of murder mystery. I enjoyed the historical aspects to the plot and characters which have been well researched.
Murder of a Suffragette is an enjoyable historical murder mystery and I liked the added social commentary surrounding the fight for women's suffrage.
Murder of a Suffragette is the 4th book in the Mabel Canning series of cosy murder mysteries set in the 1920s.
Annie Harkin has always been prominent among the suffragettes and it has negatively impacted her health. But she still believes she has the strength to lead them again and joins the conference where she is killed before the members elect a leader. Luckily Mabel is on hand to start off the murder investigation while the ladies wait for the police to arrive. She is joined by her neighbours who have helped her in the past.
Mabel has had a thoroughly modern outlook throughout the series so I enjoyed seeing her alongside the suffragettes. Her romanctic relationship with Park continues to simmer and add an extra dimension as a subplot. Mabel has a number of suspects and motives to explore. There is little violence as you would expect from the cosy genre of murder mystery. I enjoyed the historical aspects to the plot and characters which have been well researched.
Murder of a Suffragette is an enjoyable historical murder mystery and I liked the added social commentary surrounding the fight for women's suffrage.
December 30, 2024
In the latest London Ladies’ Murder Club mystery, readers join Mabel Canning at a suffragettes’ conference which is perfectly enjoyable until Annie Harkin, a leader of the movement, is found dead. As more suffragettes feel threatened and unsafe even among their allies, Mabel and her friends are solidly voted to replace local detectives Ted and Ned on the case to discover the murderer. With lives and the movement on the line, Mabel must look to the past for clues and perhaps the answer to the murder of Annie Harkin before any more suffragettes fall to this new threat. Readers will love rejoining Mabel and her friends on this new mystery with a strong group of female characters as sleuths and suspects, while the new tensions and characters really make this mystery absolutely engrossing. For fans of cozy historical mystery novels with high stakes and thrilling clues, readers cannot miss this series or the continued adventures of Mabel. The characters are the star of the novel, presenting new obstacles and clues to the investigation, and Wingate has continued to bring this brilliant series to life in this fun and enjoyable series. Brilliantly written and populated with fantastic characters, readers must read the latest instalment in this brilliant historical mystery series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
October 16, 2024
This is my 1st Marty Wingate book & definitely won't be my last. I'm dying to read the rest of the London Ladies' Murder Club books to see what leads them to this volume but had no trouble at all jumping in with vol 4, but your millage may vary as other reviews said they did.
The story revolves around a group of suffragettes & suffragists (and who knew there was a difference because I didn't & had to look it up!) coming together to pick amongst themselves the person they'd like to lead them forward into the next phase of their cause, which was allowing women the same voting rights as men to vote at the age of 21 & not just 30.
I adored everything about this book--from the main character Mabel & her paramour Park (Guess I'll have to read 1-3 to learn of their relationship), her friends Skef & Cora who are the other members of the London Ladies' Murder Club & the fact this particular volume took place in Mabel's home town-so you got to meet the family & village inhabitants too.
I'm glad Marty Wingate has written so many books besides this series but I will surely be adding the first three from this series to my TBR list right away! One of my favorite cozies so far this year!
Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read an advance copy!
The story revolves around a group of suffragettes & suffragists (and who knew there was a difference because I didn't & had to look it up!) coming together to pick amongst themselves the person they'd like to lead them forward into the next phase of their cause, which was allowing women the same voting rights as men to vote at the age of 21 & not just 30.
I adored everything about this book--from the main character Mabel & her paramour Park (Guess I'll have to read 1-3 to learn of their relationship), her friends Skef & Cora who are the other members of the London Ladies' Murder Club & the fact this particular volume took place in Mabel's home town-so you got to meet the family & village inhabitants too.
I'm glad Marty Wingate has written so many books besides this series but I will surely be adding the first three from this series to my TBR list right away! One of my favorite cozies so far this year!
Thanks to the publisher for the chance to read an advance copy!
November 5, 2024
"Murder of a Suffragette" is a mystery set in 1922 England. It's the 4th book in the series. You can understand the story without reading the previous books (and I haven't), but it's like all the character development happened already and the author didn't bother in this story. It's like paper dolls delivered the needed lines. The dog had the most personality of the bunch, and she was also the true detective. The dog found bodies, missing people, clues, and even saved Mabel in the nick of time.
While there were clues, this wasn't a puzzle mystery which the reader could have fun solving. Mabel did basic interviews, and she and the dog's owner brought the clues to the detective (who couldn't be on the spot for long so left the leg work to her). However, she solved whodunit by walking into danger and managing to get whodunit to confess before trying to kill her. There was a little bit of suffragette history mentioned, but much more about the food they were eating or what the hats looked like.
There were no sex scenes. There were only a few uses of bad language. Overall, the story wasn't bad, but it didn't interest me in reading any more of the series.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
While there were clues, this wasn't a puzzle mystery which the reader could have fun solving. Mabel did basic interviews, and she and the dog's owner brought the clues to the detective (who couldn't be on the spot for long so left the leg work to her). However, she solved whodunit by walking into danger and managing to get whodunit to confess before trying to kill her. There was a little bit of suffragette history mentioned, but much more about the food they were eating or what the hats looked like.
There were no sex scenes. There were only a few uses of bad language. Overall, the story wasn't bad, but it didn't interest me in reading any more of the series.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
December 5, 2024
Marty Wingate's new book - Murder of a Suffragette. This is the 4th in the London Ladies' Murder Club series. (But you don't need to have read the previous books to enjoy this latest.)
I was not aware of the difference between Suffragette and Suffragist until I read this book. The first were 'deeds not words' and would use violence, but the latter eschewed violence. In 1918 women thirty and over gained the vote, but both groups are trying to get the vote for women 21 and up. This is an interesting time and setting to use for the book.
Mabel is the lead character and I really enjoy her curiosity, her tenacity, and determination. She works for the Useful Women Agency. She is booked to be the secretary of this large meeting of women, but finds herself back in an investigation when a body is found on the grounds of the large manor. There is a plethora of suspects to choose from.
The supporting cast is just as engaging as Mabel. They've been in the first books and Wingate keeps their lives moving forward. And what every cosy read needs a dog or cat. Gladys the dog figures into the plot. And a cosy needs some romance as well! I really enjoyed this latest and am looking forward what Wingate has in store for characters.
I was not aware of the difference between Suffragette and Suffragist until I read this book. The first were 'deeds not words' and would use violence, but the latter eschewed violence. In 1918 women thirty and over gained the vote, but both groups are trying to get the vote for women 21 and up. This is an interesting time and setting to use for the book.
Mabel is the lead character and I really enjoy her curiosity, her tenacity, and determination. She works for the Useful Women Agency. She is booked to be the secretary of this large meeting of women, but finds herself back in an investigation when a body is found on the grounds of the large manor. There is a plethora of suspects to choose from.
The supporting cast is just as engaging as Mabel. They've been in the first books and Wingate keeps their lives moving forward. And what every cosy read needs a dog or cat. Gladys the dog figures into the plot. And a cosy needs some romance as well! I really enjoyed this latest and am looking forward what Wingate has in store for characters.
October 21, 2024
Ms. Wingate had me hooked from the first page in this next installment of the London Ladies Murder Club. I enjoyed watching Mabel wrangle the women at Fellbridge Hall for the suffragette and suffragist reunion. The Hall is near Mabel's home village of Peasmarsh. In fact, Mabel's best friend was married to the second son of the Fellbridge family. Lady Emma has opened the Hall for her fellow suffragettes and suffragists to gather together to pick a new leader for the movement.
Cora, Skeff, Park and Gladys are also here. Cora and Skeff are attending the reunion meeting and Park and Gladys are here to meet Mabel's family. But before the meetings can begin one of the attendees is murdered. Mabel and her friends must put on their sleuthing caps to find the villain. The plot moved swiftly with numerous twists and turns, suspects within the Hall as well as a couple of characters who made appearances from outside of the Hall and the red herrings scattered throughout kept me on my toes and turning the pages. A truly enjoyable read.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Cora, Skeff, Park and Gladys are also here. Cora and Skeff are attending the reunion meeting and Park and Gladys are here to meet Mabel's family. But before the meetings can begin one of the attendees is murdered. Mabel and her friends must put on their sleuthing caps to find the villain. The plot moved swiftly with numerous twists and turns, suspects within the Hall as well as a couple of characters who made appearances from outside of the Hall and the red herrings scattered throughout kept me on my toes and turning the pages. A truly enjoyable read.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
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