Carnage from the Cursed Crown

The Kier and Levett Mystery #5

by Deb Marlowe

Kara and Niall explore a new phase, a new estate . . . and another murder?

Niall Kier’s life is changing in unexpected ways, but his latest forge art installation is a triumph. He’s thrilled with the result, until his patron sends payment in the form of an ancient crown, dripping in emeralds and rubies . . . and bringing along an ancient curse.

Niall just wants to get on with the new phase of his life and his relationship with Kara Levett. But one man is dead already . . . and all signs point to him being the next victim. Dragged into the case despite their best efforts, Kara and Niall find their steps hampered by ill-luck and accidents as they trail after suspects and try to dissect reality from illusion, untangle friends from enemies . . . and find a killer who might be hiding in plain sight.

The Kier and Levett Mystery series
Book 1 - A Killer in the Crystal Palace
Book 2 - Death from the Druid’s Grove
Book 3 - Murder on the Mirrored Lake
Book 4 - Revenge in the Rogue’s Hideaway
Book 5 - Carnage from the Cursed Crown

Genres: Mystery, Regency, Historical, Fiction, Adult, Historical Mystery

260 pages, Paperback

Published August 7, 2024

About the author

USA Today Bestseller Deb Marlowe loves History, England and Men in Boots. Clearly she was destined to write Historical Romance and Mystery.

A Golden Heart winner and Rita Finalist, Deb grew up in Pennsylvania with her nose in a book. Luckily, she'd read enough romances to recognize the true modern hero she met at a college Halloween party—even though he wore a tuxedo T-shirt instead of breeches and tall boots.

A proud geek, history buff and story addict, she loves to talk with readers and to create historical recipes in her modern kitchen. Check it out at Deb Marlowe's Historical Kitchen on her website.

Reviews

[Merry · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoy the series and rate this book 3.5* and look forward to the next. The book started off with bang and I was hooked. I enjoy the characters but found dealing with Kara's self-doubts to be part of life...but have enjoyed her character more when she exhibits the self-defense lessons she has learned through the years. The mystery was a bit too convoluted finding out who and why for the murder. I enjoyed the last 1/3 the most so it gets a 3*.

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carnage from the Cursed Crown by Deb Marlowe
The Kier and Levett Mystery series #5. Historical mystery with a small amount of romance. Closed door, slow burn. Can be read as a stand-alone, but better as part of the series in order.
Niall Kier’s life is changing in unexpected ways. Along with his new title, Duke of Sedgwick, he has also inherited an estate at Tallenford Priory in East Lothian, Scotland. The property has been empty for a long time, but he’s confident that he and his fiancee, Miss Kara Levett, will make it into a home in no time. In the meantime, he has created a piece of art for his neighbor, Lord Balstone, a local archeologist. Unfortunately, temporary payment for the art comes in the form of an ancient cursed crown and a body at the site of the excavation. Kara and Niall have declared themselves out of the business of investigating crimes, yet when the procurator fiscal is hurt and unable to travel or take statements from witnesses, they are back at it. They follow clues and ask questions with the danger mounting as they find thieves, lies and schemes, all in trying to find a killer.

A wonderful mystery and unraveling. Poor Harold, getting stuck in the middle of the power struggle. But never fear. Kara and Niall are not amateurs any longer.
Loved then ending and the hints of more to come from the witchy inn keeper.
I always learn new, or rather, old vocabulary from these books.
Costermonger: a person who sells goods, especially fruit and vegetables from a handcart in the street.

I received a copy of the from NetGalley.

[Jeannine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm amazed that Deb Marlowe is able to pack so much into the books in this wonderful series! Once again, we get a story with a great mystery, great relationship development between the main characters, and charming moments with the secondary characters who make up a found family.

Kara is joining Niall in Scotland, where they are to see the estate he has been awarded with his new title. Niall came ahead of her to work on a commission and they reunite at the unveiling a sculpture he created for a client, who lives near his new home. Of course, there's a murder at the gathering and despite promising themselves that they won't get involved, Kara and Niall are dragged into the mystery when the local investigator is injured and stays with them to recover. Though someone has been brutally murdered, it's funny to see our sleuthing couple try to stay away from trouble, but get dragged into it.

Harold, the street urchin who is now their ward, stands out as the secondary character who gets the sweetest scenes in this one. He's a scene-stealer, for sure!

While the mystery in this story stands alone, the romantic subplots and character development is more satisfying when you have read the prior books. They are as fast paced and fun to read as this one!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much. The mysteries never seem mundane or unrealistic. All I love the whole cast of characters not just Niall and Kara. The last chapter made me so happy! I was shocked by all of who was involved in the mystery this time around and the investigation was very interesting. It kept me on my toes. This is not open door and I would say more mystery than romance, but the feelings are strong and true between our main characters. Can’t wait for the next.

[L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of my favorite series. The plots for the stories are always suspenseful and well organized and Ms. Marlowe keeps the action moving. While you don't have to read the books in any order I would recommend it because the characters develop relationships as the stories progress.
There were more characters in this story and at times it was difficult to keep track of who performed what function in the plot but even that didn't matter to me. There's twists in this one and a rather surprising ending that will keep you wanting more from these two.
Thankfully I have the 6th book to start!

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Niall Kier’s life is changing now a Duke, but he still works on his forge art & the latest installation for the Earl of Balstone is a triumph. He’s thrilled with the result, until his patron sends payment in the form of an ancient crown, dripping in emeralds and rubies and bringing along an ancient curse. Niall just wants to get on with the new phase of his life and his relationship with Kara Levett. The couple along with Gyda are happy to inspect Niall’s new estate, which just happens to border the Balstone estate Then a body is found & accidents start to happen to Niall – it looks like he might be the next victim.
The fifth book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’d recommend reading in order to fully appreciate it plus the series is brilliant. I love both Niall & Kara & adore how their relationship has deepened & changed. Another well written page turner which I devoured in two sittings. There are twists & turns & it took me nearly until the denouement to work out who the villain really was. The ending is also lovely & brought a tear to my eye. I hope there are many more adventures to come
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Tina Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another excellent mystery from Deb Marlowe, featuring Kara and Niall. I was a tiny bit disappointed that there seemed to be less romance in this book although there was a very satisfactory ending.

There seemed to be more characters to keep track of in this book than in the others which caused me a little bit of confusion from time to time. And I didn’t find this as interesting as the Rogue’s Hideout tbh. Nonetheless it was a great story with lots of twist and turns.

I loved Niall’s very romantic gesture at the end of the book and It was nice to see all the cameos then. Sometimes you just have to take matters into your own hands!

I enjoyed the new characters at Tallenford Priory too, especially Mrs. Pollock and Ailsa. I thought Beryl, the proprietor of The Witch’s Price was a brilliant character and she stole every scene she was in. I really look forward to seeing more of her as she predicts will happen when talking to Kara.

And finally I agree with Niall when he says that sea air and forest loam are the finest scent in the world.

Highly recommended. Best if you read the prior books in the series but it’s not strictly necessary.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

Niall Kier is granted a ducal title, power, land, Tallenford Priory and people in his charge. He and Kara Levett, engaged to be married, find themselves involved in another murder, whether they want to be or not. A piece of land and a young man's dream comes to not when he is found murdered. Family connections to the victim and clues to his death, lead Niall and Kara in different directions. Too many people are involved to fit all the pieces in place, untill the villain exposes his weakness. Recommend this series if you like reading mystery and romance.
Clean romance with a little violence.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely ending, heart warming, but the next one is going to be exciting again

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Kier and Levett Mysteries #5
Publication Date: 8/7/24

Oh! My Goodness, this was the best book of the series so far. Kara Levett and her betrothed Niall Kier (newly minted Duke of Sedwick) are in East Lothian, Scotland to inspect his new estate, Tallenford Priory. The estate has been closed and in the care of the Crown for many years, so they have no idea whether it is habitable or not. In the meantime, they will be staying with the Earl of Balstone on his neighboring estate until they can examine the priory and make it habitable. Except, their hostess is very unwelcoming and condescending and their host, well, he appears a bit off his rocker.

Niall and Kara are both determined not to get involved in the investigation when their neighbor’s archaeological assistant is murdered. It seems the murderer has other plans and draws them not only into murder investigation but the investigation of other crimes as well. It seems to be a domino effect with clues in one investigation leading to clues in many other crimes. They know they must follow the clues to the end and solve all of the crimes because multiple attempts have been made on Niall’s life – and that just won’t do.

One of the outstanding things about reading this series is the absolute trust and belief Niall and Kara have in each other. Their love for each other never wavers and their belief in the other’s intelligence and abilities is absolute. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them dissect the clues and follow them to the end where villains get their just desserts and the heroes get the loveliest, most heartwarming final chapter I think I have ever read.

If you are looking for an excellent mystery, with lots of clues and lots of mysteries, along with a bit of romance, this book would be an outstanding choice. The characters are interesting and the mysteries are compelling. This author has done an excellent job of providing the perfect mix of romance and mystery and I am so glad to have read it.

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

[Winnifred D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes: MC's team up to solve a murder mystery
Steam level: 1
Part of a series, works OK as a standalone, but highly recommend reading the other books first (they're excellent).

This has been one of my favorite HR/mystery series, and while this isn't the best entry (the previous one is hard to beat), it's a satisfying read. As usual, the world building is solid and the mystery is well constructed. Also, Kara is a great example in this genre of a MFC who isn't perfect but is strong and doesn't need saving multiple times per book. She is able to investigate on her own without Niall rescuing her, and while her temper gets the better of her at times, it's refreshing when a heroine is that well fleshed out. Plotwise, even if you think you've determined the culprit(s) and motive, you might not have the full scenario figured out. A character who is rather villainous to start ends up not so much toward the end. Meanwhile, a likable character at the beginning is killed off fairly quickly (this seems to be a current HR/mystery trend).

My caveats: at times the dialog is wordy, notably toward the end, which slows down the action (I get why the author chose not to leave exposition until after the mystery was solved, though) and I felt that Gyda took a backseat in this one. I keep hoping that she gets a love life, but nothing much has proceeded along those lines. Also, the procurator starts off as an interesting character, but doesn't end up playing as much of a role in the case as expected. I have to add that the ending was a bit abrupt. However, if you're a fan of Kara and Niall's relationship, you must read the last several pages for some closure.

Overall: although not my favorite, a solid entry in the series.

I read an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest, voluntary review. Thanks to the author, Dragonblade, and Net Galley for this opportunity.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Gripping Story

I am a huge fan of this Victorian murder mystery series with its romantic subplot. This installment also captivated me from the beginning. It is twisted, intriguing, suspenseful, romantic and heartwarming. Niall and Kara are wonderful characters and I love their relationship, which feels so natural and loving and which develops further in this story. Above all, Kara with her strength, independence, intelligence and her warm, open way of dealing with people, regardless of age and social status, is absolutely adorable.
The already known supporting characters are also lovable and fun to read.

Theoretically, this book could be read on its own, but I don’t recommended it because the reader would miss the characters' backstory and the development of their relationship.

Niall Kier has recently been granted a dukedom in Scotland by the Crown and is looking forward to a more peaceful life with his fiancée Kara Levett, their unconventional family and his new duties as lord of the manor. He is also happy to take on a project from his new neighbor, the Earl of Balstone, an archaeologist specialising in early British history.

Kara travels to the unveiling ceremony of Niall's new sculpture, but receives a very different reception from those present.
When the Earl's assistant is found murdered shortly afterwards at the excavation site, Niall and Kara are determined not to get involved in the investigation this time, but then a murder attempt is made on Niall’s life in which the investigating officer of the case is injured and who asks them to investigate in his place...

If you like a good mix of murder mystery and sweet romance with endearing characters in a Victorian era setting, you are sure to enjoy this book!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

I have loved this series from the beginning and this book only made me love it even more. I have loved how the author has allowed the characters to grow over time without losing what we love so much about them. This book was especially interesting as we got further insight into Kara's more insecure side. She is such a strong, independent woman that you tend to forget about how poorly society has treated her. And it was nice to see Niall finally more at peace with who he is. Of course it is always a pleasure to see these characters work together on their "adventures". My only complaint here is that I would have liked a little more Gyda. The murder mystery is interesting as always and I was invested in finding out who the killer was because I had really liked the victim - and the more I found out about how poorly he had been treated by others I just felt even worse for him. The identity of the killers didn't come fully out of nowhere, but the motive behind it kept my interest. The last chapter did come as something as a surprise and in the best way possible - it is probably the sweetest/most romantic scene I've read in a while. The ending has a feeling of a final book for the series, but also leaves it open for more books. I'm hoping for the latter as I have come to really look forward to each book and to getting to find out what case Kara and Niall will tangled up in next.

[Fredine Purvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carnegie from the Cursed Crown (The Kier and Levett Mystery Series Book 5) Deb Marlowe

Oh this book is so exciting with mystery and intrigue for Niall and Kara. Being given the title of Duke Niall heads to Scotland to claim his property there with Kara his fiance. Niall crafts statues for an Earl and scholar whole is also a archeologists and neighbor, for a evening unveiling and ceremony.
Kara and Gyra who is Niall friend and assistant, arrive for the Ceremony, coming from London. Meeting the neighbors for the midnight unveiling of the beautiful statues with lights to add to the beauty of the statues. This was only the beginning of their adventure, with the showing of the Cursed Crown by the Earl.
A message arrives for Niall for a midnight meeting delivered by a man that is later found dead. The mystery begins and leads them to Edinburgh, where they discover the banker has disappeared, also a young woman that is connected with the deceased. They have a great adventure there which leads back to more danger and deaths of the evil doers. All the while Kara and Niall keeps their love stronger.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

Started out somewhat slow but when the paced picked up it was full steam ahead. Crossover characters from the previous stories. Many of my favorites returned and it was great experiencing them interacting with each other.

Then you have some new ones, that I hope continue in future stories. This is basically a clean story with passionate kisses.

One part I felt I wanted to experience was when the H discovered how the Witches Inn wasn't safe and what happened to the h. It wasn't mentioned at all the next day, which I felt was lacking.

Many villains, suspense, twists, intrigue, murder, kidnapping, danger and just a darn good storyline
with strong main and secondary characters.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, fantastic last chapter that will warm your heart, HEA, little on romance, and kisses.

I enjoyed that the MC were equals and their love and caring for each other was felt throughout the story. I recommend this series highly. It can be a standalone, but you will enjoy it more if you read the series.

I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you tidbits to decide whether to purchase. (ljb)

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just WOW! This book has been building for the last 5 books. And it served up the finest ending. I don't know if the the lady in the Keir and Lovett series, but it was a wonderful ending to an arch in the series

I have been reading Ms. Marlowe for several years now and I haven't missed a book. Because I know she will serve up a feel good book that will have you gasping in fear, (just momentarily) laughing, crying (both happy and sad tears) and sighing as your promised HEA comes to pass

We are in the Victorian era in the mysteries, and this last one has taken us to Scotland where Niall has been given a Duchary (Dukedom?) as his birthright. But someone wants him dead just as Kara and he are starting their new lives

It is fun to watch Niall use the power of this title, a title he never thought he'd have. And watching Kara pull back from all her society insecurities to the strong warrior we know and love was hurtful but satisfying.

If you like Victorian romances, with a deep mystery to keep you turning the pages, you must read this series. If you have been reading it, this 5 star read will not leave you wanting. (Except more of these characters.)

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 5 and I’m still hooked on the characters and the storylines. One of the things I love about the characters of Kara & Niall is that their relationship is of equals and he doesn’t try to diminish her abilities but is proud of them. They are a team the whole way through solving the mysteries, planning their future, and combining their lives. I loved that he allowed her to hold her own and address rude characters instead of immediately jumping to her defense because he knew her well enough that she could. I find many similar series have the male protagonist constantly trying to protect the female and it only just ends up in more danger and less trust. I look forward to the next book and seeing what married life is like for them and more of my favorite side characters, Gyda & Harold. I also would love to see more of Beryl the witchy innkeeper.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.

[K McKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The latest entry in this very enjoyable historical mystery series has a very different feel from its predecessors, but is still very true to the story and characters. It is one of my favorite of the series. Kara and Niall are in Scotland for most of this book as they deal with Niall’s new title and estate. Mysteries involving murder, ancient artifacts, and missing persons quickly ensue. The relationship between Kara and Niall is also at the core of the story, and series readers will appreciate the development at the ending. As always, the mystery is compelling and the characters are strong and engaging. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy in exchange for an honest opinion

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Victorian Historical Mystery

Kara and Niall are getting out of the business of investigating murder, or so they think. Then, a body shows up, and the man investigating the murder is staying at their house after a horrifying mishap. They might want to stay out of the quagmire, but circumstances make it impossible, especially since Niall is the killer’s next target.

It is a twisted tale of murder, deception, and greed. There is even a cursed crown. Just what exactly does this crown have to do with anything? For the answers, you must enter the web of danger that lies between the pages of this entertaining book. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would recommend it to those who like historical mystery with suspense and a dash of romance.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series and what a series it is. I have enjoyed every book so far and this one is my favourite. The characters well written and the plot is well-thought out. How these authors come with the twists and turns I don’t know but I sure enjoy reading them. It has so many twists and turns that you just don’t know who the murderer is. It’s the start of their new life but as usual, trouble finds them. This one is set in Scottland giving it a nice change and a great pace. I found it hard to put down and look forward to the next in the series. I received this as an ARC and freely give my review.

[Avril Hemingway · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this Victorian murder mystery series with its romantic subplot from the beginning and this latest instalment (book 5) didn't disappoint. The mystery is twisty, intriguing, suspenseful but never mundane or unrealistic with the romance being but a small part of the story so the mystery could be read as a stand alone. However the characters are so interesting and endearing it is best to read them in order to get the full effect of the story. When I finish one book I cannot wait for the next to be released now back to waiting, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series! Mystery and romance together in one place, plus two main characters who continue throughout the series and are truly entertaining. Kara is a strong, smart lady who doesn't need to be saved and has Niall as the perfect foil for her investigations and mischief. They can both work together or separately and still be effective. The clues are well written yet not so obvious that you have figured it out to early. I'm thrilled to review these because I truly enjoy every minute of time with these characters from page one until the final period.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this historical romance, we have a murder/mystery.  Our hero,  who you will have met in previous books in the series, has been made a Duke. He and his fiancée are inspecting their new home. The pair don't seem to be able to avoid getting involved in police matters. That happened in the other books as well. They are very brave and intelligent people whose journey I have thoroughly enjoyed following.  

You can read this book on its own , but you would understand the characters better if you read the previous books. 

Great fun. 

[Doris Brase · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amazing Misadventure!

This is the best one yet! Niall is now a duke and Kara is struggling with insecurities since she doesn't fit the picture of a typical duchess. After a miserable visit with the new neighbors where Niall had crafted a bronze grouping of ancient ancestors, the betrothed couple escaped to their new residence. Then murder happened.
The investigator became incompacitated and our artistic duo took over the sleuthing. The action is non stop and the ending fantastic.

[Cri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deb Marlowe's Kier and Levett Mystery series.

I have eagerly read all the books and found them most diverting.

Once again I could not discover the culprit at first as several different ideas kept forming into my head.

This time we get to know some new well-likable characters and some from the past turn out, so chance is you will not miss your favorite one!


Thanks to the author and the publisher for providing me with an ARC.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, Niall and Kara are able to move forward with their relationships. All of Niall's secrets have settled and he is now a Duke with an estate in Scotland. This could be the start of a whole new calmer life where they marry and spend their days creating art instead of trouble.
But of course, trouble seems to follow them wherever they go. After only 1 night in their new home, there's a murder and it appears to be aimed at Niall. And so it begins! The duo faces threats and danger as they try to uncover the killer and stay alive.
When they Happily Ever After comes it is better than you could have imagined!

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Loved this series

The pages of each story was jam packed with excitement and wonderful historical tidbits! The characters were well defined and moved each storyline along beautifully! As you can tell, I am thoroughly enchanted by The Ker and Lovett Mystery Series and look forward to more adventures!

[Lisa H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another chapter in the on-going saga....

Of Kara and Niall.
This one features Niall. This time, he appears to be cursed after payment comes in the form of cursed jewels. He wants more from Kara, but the pesky curse means he and Kara in peril while trying to find yet another killer and keep Niall alive as well.

[Stacie Lorenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

Once again a great book in this series! A page turner. Kara and Niall are great characters with a fun and interesting bunch of supporting characters around them. The mystery was well written and well thought out the story just unfolds as read! There had better be more, much more!!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Niall is granted land, he cannot wait to show it to Kara. However murder and intrigue surrounds them as they must solve another mystery of who and why someone is trying to kill Niall. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.