Murder in the House

Dora and Rex 1920s Mysteries #7

by Lynn Morrison

A death in the House of Commons has all eyes on foreign shores. But what if the killer lies closer to home?

London, 1924. Westminster is in an uproar when a promising young clerk is found dead at his desk, killed by a powerful poison sent by post. Worse yet, the letter was addressed to his boss - the Leader of the House.

Dora and Rex, with the help of Clark and Prudence, must determine who sent the killer letter and why. Between political parties jostling for power and enemies plotting overseas, there is no shortage of suspects.

Can the bright young foursome find the killer before he strikes again?

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Historical Fiction

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 30, 2024

About the author

Lynn Morrison lives in Oxford, England along with her husband, two daughters and two cats. Originally from the US, she has also lived in Italy, France and the Netherlands. It’s no surprise then that she loves to travel, with a never-ending wishlist of destinations to visit. She is as passionate about reading as she is writing, and can almost always be found with a book in hand. You can find out more about her on her website LynnMorrisonWriter.com.

You can chat with her directly in her Facebook group - Lynn Morrison’s Not a Book Club - where she talks about books, life and anything else that crosses her mind.

Reviews

[Paraphrodite · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

This one revolves around Clark as the would-be successor of Lord Audley as England's spymaster. (I wished we got to read the conversations Rex and Dora would have had with both Clark and Prudence though. Those seem to be done off-page?)

Clark has just taken over his father's seat in the House of Lords and is trying to secretly tame down the Communist movement by negotiating for a sympathizer to be an assistant of the Leader of the Labour Party. When that person is found dead in the House, he enlists the help of Rex and Dora to figure out who was the killer before England erupts in all-out anti-establishment riots.

We also see Rex and Dora trying to promote the attraction between Clark and Prudence. Which is quite cute.

Overall, we see quite a bit of character growth in Clark with Rex and Dora playing more secondary roles in this installment. I'm not sure if this is the end of the series but I will miss their antics if that is so.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

More murder mystery and marvellousness 🤨😁♥️

Firstly . . . book 7! How fantastic is that? 😁 Dora has come a long way in these 7 books, from being a single solitary spy - albeit with the aid of Inga and Harris - to joining up with Rex and being in a partnership (in marriage as well as work), then adding Archie, Basel and their sister Cynthia. And now her spy/sleuth circle is expanding further with the addition of Prudence and Clarke, who both play an increasingly larger role, particularly Clarke, in this latest murder mystery adventure. I love how this has organically happened over the course of the series so far. Plus we get a little sprinkle of new romance. Btw, Clarke does remind me of Rex when he first realised he was romantically interested in Dora! Not much of a clue, bless, but we do see him mature and hopefully in the future he will do so as well as Rex has.
Anyways, Clarke is the instigator of their involvement in this murder investigation and it’s a doozy! Political intrigue, or a personal grudge? That’s what our gang has to unravel and there’s a lot of unravelling to do. And thank you Lynne, for the info regarding the political background/events occurring at the time of this plot, that you shared at the end of this book and on your socials. It gave me a better and wider understanding of the situation as a whole. As I’ve come to expect, there are twists, turns and suspicious activity galore, which made it tricky to guess as to who the murderer was! Well, I thought I knew, but I’ve learned my lesson with Ms Morrison’s mysteries and have realised that if I think I know whodunnit, I also know it’s probably not them! 😆 I was half right this time though 😁 There’s a satisfying, if unconventional (which I very much liked!), conclusion once our intrepid gang has pieced all the clues together and initiated their plan of action.
I’m looking forward to seeing where the stories are going to go next - we do get a hint that Dora and Rex’s next adventure may be in foreign lands 🤔 I’m eagerly awaiting the next book and will be happy to be with them, wherever they may go 😁

[Debbie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful read with all of the twists and turns that lovers of this series have come to expect, albeit with an unexpected but brilliant turn. This book is Clark's moment to shine, and shine he does. Gone is the "bright young thing who organized elaborate scavenger hunts," and in his place is Lord Clark Kenworthy, Earl Rivers, who may just hold the fate of the government in his hands. Alright, to be fair, the old Clark lurks within the newly minted Earl, but all of those dashing and daring antics that brought such fun to other Bright Young Things are now channeled to bring change and stability to King and Country, if you will. As I said to Lynn Morrison (the brilliant creator of this tale) "Our boy is growing up."

Never fear, Dora and Rex, as well as the rest of the gang, feature prominently in the picture. They just are not running the show this time. There is so much to love about this book, including a potential love interest for our much maligned young Earl, but I encourage you to read for yourself and enjoy.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very intriguing storyline which keeps you guessing right up until the reveal!

Dora and Rex always provide lots of mystery, intrigue and plots to be unravelled. This time Lord Clark becomes a much more central figure, as he steps up, in more ways than one, after the death of his father. He shows more of his clever mind, both as he sets up machinations of a political nature, and in working on solving the murder of a young clerk in the Labour Party. In the last book it was hinted that Clark might eventually be a successor to Lord Audley, and in this book we begin to see how that might happen.

We also see much more of Prudence Adams, who has worked alongside our intrepid crew before, but may now have a larger and very important involvement.

As ever, I’ve loved every part of the adventures of Dora, Rex and their friends and really hope that the series will continue for a long time to come.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tale that moved along at a steady pace. All the gang took part except Rex’s sister & Clark had the star role. He’s quickly become a statesman & is growing worthy of being Lord Audley’s successor, although I hope they share the work for many books to come. Audley is such a revered character that equaling him will need a long time. And romance has blossomed too! A little unexpectedly but it was well woven into the plot. It’s fascinating to read of the strong feelings in labour & the communist parties. The Tories presumably stand alone hence didn’t feature. But the conversations shone a light on the changes in society. The slow lingering impact of WW1 gives an understanding of what lies ahead. One thing I have great trouble understanding is how Dora gets away with no one recognising who she really is! High society is extraordinary dense not to be wondering where she went after the war!

[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Political intrigue in the Palace of Westminster, murder and a teensy bit of romance. Lynn Morrison's Dora and Rex Mysteries just keep getting better and better. In this book our beloved bumbling side character Lord Clark Kenworthy is all grown up following the death of his father and his initiation into 'the gang' and it's a pleasure to see him come into his own. This story centres around a murder in the Houses of Parliament and a possible Communist threat. The plot is well thought out with the twists and turns we have come to expect and love. The characters are well established now and it was nice to see more of Prudence, but I missed spending time with Edith, who only plays a minor part in this story. I did not guess 'whodunit' and when you read the book, you will see why.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful cozy spy mystery featuring Dora, Rex and Clark. They are involved close to home this time - a clerk is discovered murdered in the office of the leader of the House of Lords. Discretion is required, and these three - with the addition of Prudence, who uses her clever reasoning - are charged with finding the solution. Clark and Prudence are learning to act as a team, but seem to be rubbing each other the wrong way. Quite a few leads must be uncovered - and discarded - before the solution is clear. As always, the plot follows an interesting part of history - lovely notes in the back! - I received an advance copy and freely leave this honest review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely sensational‼️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved every minute of this read! All the crew have roles of varying sizes ~ however Clarke comes into his own in this tale of murder, espionage, differing political ideologies , and intrigue! Dora, Rex, Inga, and Harris, along with the household staff and of course also the assistance of Rex's delightful grandmother, support Clarke as he uncovers the murderers, hatches the plan to capture them, and begins to take the path of stepping into Lord Audley's shoes! Also ~ bit of a bonus at the very end!

[Fred Masek · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s rare that I read a series beyond book three. This series is one of those exceptions. Each book is a delight by itself but by reading them in sequence you can see the development in the characters. Lord Clark has really grown up since his father’s death and shows great promise of replacing Audley as spymaster. He is the lead character in this story that involves murder, politics, and communists.

Once again a delightful story full of suspects and twists and again I picked the wrong suspect. I heartily recommend this book

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating murder investigation
In an attempt to circumvent the communist threat, Clark proposes to the Leader of the House of Lords to hire a promising young man with ties to the movement. However, when the man is murdered by poison in an envelope delivered to his desk, Dora and Rex investigate with Clark. At first sight, it would seem that the communists could have murdered him, as the more extreme elements consider him a traitor, but soon enough, they have to investigate some suspect members of the Labour party.

[Kellye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is one of my favorites of the series so far. This story centers around the same kind of political intrigue as the earlier books in the series, but we see more of Clark and his journey into becoming a spymaster. Throw in a little romance on the side, and a plot twist or two, and it’s a fun little romp. I recommended reading the earlier books in the series first for the best experience!

[Starfire · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful finale to the Dora and Rex mysteries - and while Dora and Rex were still very much present, it was wonderful really seeing Clark coming into his own. It was also fascinating to get this kind of a glimpse into what was going on politically at the time - despite being set 100 years ago, a lot of the political themes seem remarkably (and depressingly) timeless.

I'm a little sad the series is over, but very much looking forward to the next instalment in Shadows & Splendour - Book 2 of Charity & Perry's series.

[Lizz Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting cozy full of intrigue and historical history. I really enjoyed the story of Lord Clark and Prudence who were dancing around their feelings for each other. Dora and Rex work well with the gang to find the elusive answers to a mysterious death. I still think this series should be adapted for television. It can be read as a standalone.

[Monica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Clark’s time to shine. Great to see Clark, who has always been a loyal and dependable friend, develop into a sharp politician and budding spymaster, along with some adjustments in his personal life. Good mystery with so many twists and all of our favorite characters are back. Can’t wait to see what’s next in store for all of them.

[Doreen Farrar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parliamentary hijinks

Who killed the young assistant? Was he the intended victim? Will Clark (with guidance and assistance from the usual interested parties) be able to solve the crime? And, what about the communists? In Lynn Morrison's talented hands, these questions add up to an exciting tale that I really enjoyed reading. Highly recommended!

[Cheryl Marriage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dora & Rex Mysteries: Murder in the House

I love all of Lynn Morrison’s mysteries, especially the Dora & Rex Mysteries. Her characters are endearing, each with their own personalities, quirks, strengths & faults, but they interact realistically & seamlesssly with each other. And the 1920s are such a fascinating time in history. I heartily recommend this series.

[Meghan Decker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve listened to the audio for all of these books. I only do audiobooks at night as I’m falling asleep, and I usually look for something that’s simple and soothing, but these were engaging enough that I found myself awake for far too long :-)
I enjoyed the stories and the characters. The books are good light mysteries

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this new entry in the Dora and Rex 1920 Mysteries, Theodora Laurent (nee Lady Dorothy Cavendish) and her husband Lord Reginald Bankes-Fernsby return, along with many, but not all, of the supporting characters from previous entries.

This time center stage is taken by Dora and Rex's brilliant but erratic "bright young thing" playboy Lord Clark Kenworthy. Clark's father has died, Clark is now Earl Rivers, taking up his seat in the House of Lords, and understudying spymaster Lord Audley. What I found most interesting about the book was the development of Clark's character as he shed the playboy skin and became a serious politician trying to get Labor and Communists to work together to effect reforms.

Leonard Thompson, a clerk central to Clark's plans, is killed in Westminster early on. Much of the book revolves around finding the killer, but more importantly the motives and conspiracies involved. Journalist Prudence Adams, a minor character in previous books, plays a bigger role as Clark's romantic interest.

A delightful book I highly recommend.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This mystery is full of intrigue and possible suspects. Dora and Rex and all their associates must help Clark solve a mysterious death in the House of Lords. Everyone brings their own unique skills to help solve the mystery. I can't wait to see what book #8 in the series will hold.

[Peggy Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the story line. It was great to read so much about Clark in this one. Of course Dora and Rex were the stars but Clark held his own. And what about his budding romance with Prudence. What's up with them? You'll have to read it to find out but you'll really enjoy the story.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Page Turner!

Dora, Rex and Clark will keep you on your sleuthing toes as you turn the pages on this intriguing mystery.

I highly recommend this historical mystery series. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the 1920s.

[Carol A Briske · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy the characters and the intrigue following Dora and Rex and crew. Can't wait for their next adventure.
But am looking forward to enjoy Clark and Prudence. Just as delighted with their personalities.
Very clever.

[Bruce Nesset · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dra and Rex are back at work again, however this time in support of Clark. His first assignment, self imposed, as Spy Master-in-training. This tale has a strong psychological edge to it as Clark tries to finder the killer of a young clerk, and prove he is worthy of the position as Spy Master.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lord Rivers comes into his own!

Lord Rivers education in politics, diplomacy, and spy craft continues helping to create a more mature man. His personal life may even have time for love!

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

Our heroes Dora and Rex are training up new staff and it's just not as good as the previous books. There is too much talking about politics, there is too much talking *about* the plot instead of action *advancing* the plot. The cat was the star of the show, really.

[Ordean Zora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Dora and Rex mystery

[Alyce Joines · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent addition to the Dora and Rex mysteries. I read this as an ARC and was so engrossed I read it straight through. The intrigue in the British House gives Clark a chance to shine.

[Julie Burnett · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series, the characters and dilemma's they find themselves in. Also how the characters grow.

[Stephanie Curran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Winner

I love this series and really enjoyed the emphasis on Lord Clark’s new role. This team of characters is tops.

[Karren Hodgkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dora and Rex have come so far and the expansion of the characters included in these cozy murder mysteries definitely improves the read.

I enjoyed this storyline, though it felt a little slow at times. The ending perhaps a little sudden.

Look forward to seeing how Clark's character evolves.

It was almost a four out of five for me.