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A Below Stairs Mystery #8
A Silence in Belgrave Square
Valiant cook and amateur sleuth Kat Holloway must uncover the secrets of Victorian London’s most elite noblemen to save the man she loves, from the New York Times bestselling author of Speculations in Sin.
Kat Holloway knows that her beau and confidante Daniel McAdam has a talent for dangerous work as a Scotland Yard agent. At long last though, Daniel’s coldhearted boss has promised that after a final mission, his debt will be repaid, and he’ll finally be free. However, Daniel must risk his life one last time, masquerading as a secretary to an elderly viscount who could be the mastermind behind the recent plots against the Queen and her government.
Using her contacts throughout London, Kat discovers several of her friends and colleagues have been victims of vicious blackmail. They’ll do anything to protect their scandalous secrets, even conform to the blackmailer’s political agenda. If Kat and Daniel wish to save each other and the Crown, they must prove the blackmailer’s identity and evade those who will stop at nothing to eliminate them.
Kat Holloway knows that her beau and confidante Daniel McAdam has a talent for dangerous work as a Scotland Yard agent. At long last though, Daniel’s coldhearted boss has promised that after a final mission, his debt will be repaid, and he’ll finally be free. However, Daniel must risk his life one last time, masquerading as a secretary to an elderly viscount who could be the mastermind behind the recent plots against the Queen and her government.
Using her contacts throughout London, Kat discovers several of her friends and colleagues have been victims of vicious blackmail. They’ll do anything to protect their scandalous secrets, even conform to the blackmailer’s political agenda. If Kat and Daniel wish to save each other and the Crown, they must prove the blackmailer’s identity and evade those who will stop at nothing to eliminate them.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 12, 2025
97 people are currently reading
4258 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
215 books7,329 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
November 2, 2025
Loved how it all turned out!
August 18, 2025
Daniel is placed in danger’s way!
Daniel McAdam has called on Kat Holloway to tell her he’d be gone for some time investigating on the orders of the despicable Mr Monaghan. Monaghan blames Daniel for the death of a colleague and gives him the most dangerous assignments. Daniel is to enter the Belgrave household of Viscount Peyton to replace his secretary who has disappeared.
He gives Kat strict instructions to not look for him, try to contact him, or acknowledge him should they pass each other in the street.
Of course that’s not going to happen! Before Daniel’s even settled into his new position Kat has asked an old acquaintance, Hannah Dunnett, to install herself in the same household.
Concurrently Lady Cynthia has notified Kat that someone is blackmailing the women of the ton, including her aunt! What?
Strange and dangerous doings to do with the Irish Home Rule question, the Fenians, a newly formed secret Police Force investigating dangerous political groups with unquestionable powers, and Kat finds herself right in the middle.
The life of Daniel and Kat is moving to new heights.
A Berkley ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Daniel McAdam has called on Kat Holloway to tell her he’d be gone for some time investigating on the orders of the despicable Mr Monaghan. Monaghan blames Daniel for the death of a colleague and gives him the most dangerous assignments. Daniel is to enter the Belgrave household of Viscount Peyton to replace his secretary who has disappeared.
He gives Kat strict instructions to not look for him, try to contact him, or acknowledge him should they pass each other in the street.
Of course that’s not going to happen! Before Daniel’s even settled into his new position Kat has asked an old acquaintance, Hannah Dunnett, to install herself in the same household.
Concurrently Lady Cynthia has notified Kat that someone is blackmailing the women of the ton, including her aunt! What?
Strange and dangerous doings to do with the Irish Home Rule question, the Fenians, a newly formed secret Police Force investigating dangerous political groups with unquestionable powers, and Kat finds herself right in the middle.
The life of Daniel and Kat is moving to new heights.
A Berkley ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
November 2, 2025
4.5 stars
Very strong outing in this series.
I loved the complicated plot threads--bombs and blackmail--that slowly revealed their connection. I loved the advancement in Kat and Daniel's romance. I loved all the camaraderie.
Excellently done.
Very strong outing in this series.
I loved the complicated plot threads--bombs and blackmail--that slowly revealed their connection. I loved the advancement in Kat and Daniel's romance. I loved all the camaraderie.
Excellently done.
August 28, 2025
As always, the book was great. Since I listened to it as an audiobook, my one complaint is how low the narrator conveys Daniel McAdam's voice. It is hard to understand what he is saying, and if I don't catch it, I have to go back and listen to it again. I would be wonderful if the narrator could give Daniel a louder voice.
April 8, 2025
Probably my favorite one yet!!!!!
September 14, 2025
Another fantastic adventure for Kat!
Kat and Daniel are separated for most of this one with Kat using all of her contacts to surveil the house where Daniel is working undercover. This is supposedly one part job with Daniel’s miserable handler.
The last 60 pages of the book pick up significantly with Kat no longer sleuthing from afar. She does some undercover work herself.
There is a huge development in the series-long relationship arc between Kat and Daniel. The next book is the last one under Jennifer Ashley’s Berkley contract, so it makes sense that we are approaching a conclusion. That being said, there may be more to come, as Ashley does a ton of self-publishing.
Kat and Daniel are separated for most of this one with Kat using all of her contacts to surveil the house where Daniel is working undercover. This is supposedly one part job with Daniel’s miserable handler.
The last 60 pages of the book pick up significantly with Kat no longer sleuthing from afar. She does some undercover work herself.
There is a huge development in the series-long relationship arc between Kat and Daniel. The next book is the last one under Jennifer Ashley’s Berkley contract, so it makes sense that we are approaching a conclusion. That being said, there may be more to come, as Ashley does a ton of self-publishing.
August 15, 2025
This has been one of my favourite series, and it's sad to see that it is being stretched beyond breaking point. It reads like a poorly cooked hotchpotch of leftover mystery elements. The ingredients are all there, from murder via blackmail to terrorism, including our familiar romance (2 steps forward, 1 step back - which, at least, is a kind of progress from the previous 1 step forward, 2 steps back pattern), including some action & rescue, including a crowd of secondary cast, including the villain's incongruous final lecture to construe a motive by hook or by crook, etc. - but not kneaded enough to produce a smooth, savoury pastry. Kat would never have sent such a dish up for dinner.
Let's see: Daniel is sent on another undercover mission, the last one, and we are told rather than shown how dangerous it is. Consequently, Kat is worried, and she does nothing but whine and worry - beside activating all kinds of helpers to intrude upon the mission. Then the suspense suddenly breaks, mission unaccomplished, and Kat and her army are thrown in to take the mystery to an explosive and wholly unmotivated end. The road that takes us there is bumpy, the carriage swerves and sways around the sudden corners, and the whole lacks logic. Once again we get Fenians, but beside that the silliest blackmail scheme I've ever seen, the most poorly motivated murder I have come across (it's only there to make the danger everyone talks about a bit more believable), and of course a villain who is so unsuspected that he has to give a lengthy talk to conjure up some motivation for his actions. Which is badly done, because the author mixes a spoonful of anarchism with half a cup of anti-imperialism, with a sprinkling of freedom talk on top - none of it makes sense.
I could go on with my rant, but if you don't spot the weaknesses of plot and structure yourself, you are probably among the lucky many who give this book high ratings.
And the worst of it is that the author is unable to let the curtain fall at last. She threatens to squeeze out another instalment. Out of sheer greed, I must assume. I would have loved to see the series come to a good, dignified end. Now I'm not sure whether I'll have the patience to read on.
Let's see: Daniel is sent on another undercover mission, the last one, and we are told rather than shown how dangerous it is. Consequently, Kat is worried, and she does nothing but whine and worry - beside activating all kinds of helpers to intrude upon the mission. Then the suspense suddenly breaks, mission unaccomplished, and Kat and her army are thrown in to take the mystery to an explosive and wholly unmotivated end. The road that takes us there is bumpy, the carriage swerves and sways around the sudden corners, and the whole lacks logic. Once again we get Fenians, but beside that the silliest blackmail scheme I've ever seen, the most poorly motivated murder I have come across (it's only there to make the danger everyone talks about a bit more believable), and of course a villain who is so unsuspected that he has to give a lengthy talk to conjure up some motivation for his actions. Which is badly done, because the author mixes a spoonful of anarchism with half a cup of anti-imperialism, with a sprinkling of freedom talk on top - none of it makes sense.
I could go on with my rant, but if you don't spot the weaknesses of plot and structure yourself, you are probably among the lucky many who give this book high ratings.
And the worst of it is that the author is unable to let the curtain fall at last. She threatens to squeeze out another instalment. Out of sheer greed, I must assume. I would have loved to see the series come to a good, dignified end. Now I'm not sure whether I'll have the patience to read on.
August 12, 2025
While each of the novels and novellas in the Below the Stairs Mystery contains a fresh mystery, I recommend reading the series in order for the slow-burn romance, character relationships and familiarity one enjoys in a series like this.
Kat Holloway is the cook in a wealthy Victorian London home. She has a daughter named Grace, who lives with her best friend’s family. Kat is visited after dinner by her beau, Daniel McAdam. He visits to tell her he will go undercover locally in a viscount’s home. Kat is immediately worried since Monaghan had told Daniel previously he needed to complete one more mission to be free of the debt he feels Daniel owes for a mission that cost their friend’s life.
Daniel warns Kat not to get involved, and not to acknowledge him should they pass on the street. I knew immediately that our Kat wouldn’t be able to resist looking out for Daniel. Lady Cynthia is distressed when her aunt receives a nasty blackmail letter. She asks Kat to look into it, and soon they discover some of Cynthia’s friends are receiving letters as well.
This was another fantastic mystery with plenty of twists and turns, the Irish mob, political intrigue and danger. I loved meeting Kat’s friend, and seeing how her and Daniel’s friends rally around them to give aid and protection.
While we didn’t get as much page time on our slow-burning romance, the time we did offered movement in the relationship and has me both giddy and sad as I wonder if Ashley is winding down the series.
Even though the mysteries are a pleasure, I think the characters—from Kat’s workplace to Daniel, Lady Cynthia, and Kat’s circle—are what truly make this series. I laughed at Kat’s meddling and admired how clever she was, but not so clever that she didn’t seek help when needed.
For fans of historical mysteries, foodie novels and slow-burning romances highly recommend this series and all of its novellas, which I devour as soon as they publish. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Kat Holloway is the cook in a wealthy Victorian London home. She has a daughter named Grace, who lives with her best friend’s family. Kat is visited after dinner by her beau, Daniel McAdam. He visits to tell her he will go undercover locally in a viscount’s home. Kat is immediately worried since Monaghan had told Daniel previously he needed to complete one more mission to be free of the debt he feels Daniel owes for a mission that cost their friend’s life.
Daniel warns Kat not to get involved, and not to acknowledge him should they pass on the street. I knew immediately that our Kat wouldn’t be able to resist looking out for Daniel. Lady Cynthia is distressed when her aunt receives a nasty blackmail letter. She asks Kat to look into it, and soon they discover some of Cynthia’s friends are receiving letters as well.
This was another fantastic mystery with plenty of twists and turns, the Irish mob, political intrigue and danger. I loved meeting Kat’s friend, and seeing how her and Daniel’s friends rally around them to give aid and protection.
While we didn’t get as much page time on our slow-burning romance, the time we did offered movement in the relationship and has me both giddy and sad as I wonder if Ashley is winding down the series.
Even though the mysteries are a pleasure, I think the characters—from Kat’s workplace to Daniel, Lady Cynthia, and Kat’s circle—are what truly make this series. I laughed at Kat’s meddling and admired how clever she was, but not so clever that she didn’t seek help when needed.
For fans of historical mysteries, foodie novels and slow-burning romances highly recommend this series and all of its novellas, which I devour as soon as they publish. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
October 1, 2025
Well, last time around I asked for some romance development and — without spoilers — this book delivered!
Its so funny that just yesterday I said I was sick and tired of “cozy” books, but somehow I woke up this morning in the mood for a literal historical cozy mystery about my favorite Victorian cook. It be like that sometimes.
Its so funny that just yesterday I said I was sick and tired of “cozy” books, but somehow I woke up this morning in the mood for a literal historical cozy mystery about my favorite Victorian cook. It be like that sometimes.
August 13, 2025
Cozy, mysterious, and enjoyable!
In this latest novel by Ashley, A Silence in Belgrave Square, we head back to 1884, and into the life of the dependable cook Kat Holloway as she now finds herself doing whatever she can to discover the identity of a blackmailer who seems to be targeting all her friends, while also constantly worrying about the man who owns her heart.
The writing is light and fluid. The characters are intelligent, multi-layered, and inquisitive. And the plot is a compelling whodunit full of twists, turns, friendship, suspects, tradition, danger, deduction, red herrings, and amateur sleuthing.
Overall, A Silence in Belgrave Square is an atmospheric, entertaining, highly satisfying tale by Ashley that I thoroughly enjoyed and which is undoubtedly another fantastic addition to the Below the Stairs Mystery series.
In this latest novel by Ashley, A Silence in Belgrave Square, we head back to 1884, and into the life of the dependable cook Kat Holloway as she now finds herself doing whatever she can to discover the identity of a blackmailer who seems to be targeting all her friends, while also constantly worrying about the man who owns her heart.
The writing is light and fluid. The characters are intelligent, multi-layered, and inquisitive. And the plot is a compelling whodunit full of twists, turns, friendship, suspects, tradition, danger, deduction, red herrings, and amateur sleuthing.
Overall, A Silence in Belgrave Square is an atmospheric, entertaining, highly satisfying tale by Ashley that I thoroughly enjoyed and which is undoubtedly another fantastic addition to the Below the Stairs Mystery series.
November 18, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
When Kat Holloway's friend, Daniel McAdam, is sent on a mission to act as a secretary to Lord Peyton, Kate knows there's more going on than it sounds. She's well aware Daniel's "guvnor", Monaghan, is a hard man who will place Daniel in harm's way again and again until Daniel is killed and his debt to Monaghan is paid. Daniel confesses Lord is a suspected Fenian whose previous secretary disappeared. Daniel advises Kat not to go anywhere near the house or interfere in any way lest Monaghan do something to harm Kat and her daughter. Kat isn't about to let her very good friend go into danger alone and she has a few tricks up her sleeves to keep him safe. Meanwhile, Lady Cynthia comes to Kat with a problem. Cynthia's aunt, Kat's employer, Mrs. Baywater, has received a poison pen letter threatening to reveal her secrets if she doesn't pay up. Kat knows as well as Cynthia does Mrs. Baywater doesn't HAVE secrets such as the letter claims but Cynthia's younger sister, the late Emily Rankin, did and the letter was likely meant for her. Then Cynthia's friends, including Judith Townsend, receive letters as well and asks Kat to figure out who is sending the letters. Kat begins to suspect her case and Daniel's are intertwined and she'll stop at nothing to keep her love AND her country safe.
This mystery took a bit to get into. About one quarter through when the dead body finally shows up at the end of Chapter 9, it picks up. There's another dead body a little later and then the ending is a little bit rushed. There's a bit of excitement for Kat twice but we know she'll be OK. I never guessed who the villain was. There weren't many clues pointing to that person. The whole plot felt low stakes in comparison to some of the previous adventures. It sounded like the series was wrapping up until the end when the conversation reveals the series will be taking a new direction. I think there needs to be ONE more book, a year later, to wrap things up now the romance plot has mostly been resolved.
Kat is such an admirable character. She's tough- mentally and physically because of everything she's been through. She's only about 30 years old or thereabouts but she's had a tough life. Kat is a survivor. She has a big heart but is afraid to let in Daniel because of the trauma she faced with her first husband. She knows in her head Daniel is not like her late husband but her heart still fears being broken. Then there's the matter of his job... She adores her daughter with all her heart and young Grace is growing up so fast and seems aware of how amazing her mother is. Grace is not so naive as Kat hopes and is fully well aware of the fact that "Uncle Daniel" wants to marry her mother. Grace has been socializing more with James, Daniel's son and I think rather than what Kat fears, the two are scheming to get their parents together! James is growing up well and he is a good lad. The four will make a lovely family. Kat can bake in her tea shop, Grace can serve the customers, James can run errands and shop while Daniel acts as taste tester and bodyguard- IF he survives this mission.
I really missed having Cynthia, Thanos, Judith and Bobby involved in the investigation. Judith and Bobby have one scene and Cynthia has a couple including one with Thanos. There's a romantic drama subplot there I could do without. Thanos is sweet, a real gentleman and he knows he has nothing to offer Cynthia so he isn't declaring himself. He should though. I think they'll be OK. Cynthia will manage his salary efficiently. Here we meet Kat's old friend, Hannah. They haven't seen each other in a long time. Hannah is a confidence trickster and Kat believes she can trust Hannah to spy on Daniel and let Kat know he's safe. Hannah is lively and enjoys teasing Kat. She's had a hard lot in life but doesn't regret any of her past adventures or exploits. Hannah is a very "in the moment" sort of person and doesn't dwell on the past or think of the future much, unlike Kat. I really enjoyed getting to know Hannah BUT I'm not sure we can trust her. She has a son who is a surly boy who doesn't trust easily and can't accept Kat's kindnesses she shows to the other urchins who help her. When Hannah reveals her son's name it could be a red flag. I sure hope she's not the villain because I like her but perhaps her son's father has returned from whatever hole he crawled into and is a thug hired by the Fenians and Hannah is trying to protect her son by covering up the plot? Or perhaps she doesn't know what he's up to?
Other delightful characters include Grimes, Daniel's bodyguard who is unwaveringly loyal to Kat and willing to do anything to protect her. He's maybe been knocked in the head a lot but he's sweet and kind. Mr. Fielding only has a cameo but he, too, is worried about his brother and by extension, Kat. I wish Errol had more to do. He's a charming rogue when he's not dangerous. Sweet Tess is tough and can take care of herself but she really does love Constable Greene and there may be political machinations at work to keep them apart so he can't help Kat. That's really, truly evil. Monahan is the real villain in this series. He's cold and evil. He lacks a heart, empathy and any emotions save the desire for vengeance. Inspector MacGregor is a far superior man. He's intelligent and trusts Kat's judgment even though he doesn't like her interference. MacGregor does NOT trust Monaghan and is eager for an excuse to take the man down but of course has to tread lightly because Monaghan is also with the police.
New characters are always suspicious but Lord Peyton seems innocuous enough. He supports Irish Home Rule but not full independence. He seems like a political moderate. Plus he has some kind of illness that prevents him from walking. He must use a wheelchair to get around. Now, the Viscount's man servant, Fagan, just his name sounds villainous. He's big enough to push the ailing Viscount's wheelchair and Hannah thinks Fagan is a ruffian. He knows a lot more than he lets on, I'm sure and he has to be in the thick of whatever is going on.
Lord Payton has an unmarried sister staying with him. I feel bad for Lady Fontaine. She's a bitter widow, a kleptomaniac with a penchant for gossip. No one loves her or wants her around. Her brother tolerates her and gets along with her well enough but she's isolated and alone.
Lord Peyton's most frequent visitor is the Earl of Pelsham, a childhood friend of Lord Peyton. He comes and goes but never stays long. No doubt they discuss their childhood days. Mr. Hampton, the doctor, sounds like he could be suspicious but we already had a doctor villain once so I don't know if the author would do that again. Lord Downes, Viscount Peyton's neighbor, is a hale and hearty country squire, now aged and loves to tell stories about his shooting days back in the country. Lord Downes is naturally more conservative than Lord Peyton and despises liberals who are ruining the country. Hmm sounds familiar. Lovely. Mr and Mrs. Lofthouse are also frequent visitors. They're real radicals and certainly up to something but I think they're just intellectual types who enjoy debating issues and not doing anything in practice to upend their cushy lives. This is evidenced by the fact they spend money freely except on their own staff - not even a tip to the groom or the errand boy. I don't think any of these gentry are villains but one could be directing things behind the scenes and present a different face to their friends.
What happened to Mr. Howard, Lord Peyton's secretary? What did he know or do or not do? Did he run off because he discovered something or was he wacked and given cement shoes? He was from a good family, albeit a younger son and a young man. Perhaps he was sacked and Lord Peyton is lying?
While I enjoyed this book very much, it lacked some of the charm and the danger of earlier books. I do hope there's one more to wrap things up, maybe more short stories in between and please Kat- publish a recipe book!
FYI Kat: The Frangipane tart doesn't mean almond. Mrs. Beeton says "Frangipanni Puddings were originally made chiefly of broken bread and a great variety of flavouring substances. This was named after the Marchese Frangipanni, head of a very ancient Roman family whose privilege it was to supply "holy bread" or wafers to St. Peter's Cathedral, hence the name, derived from the Latin words frangere' (to break) and panis (bread). The Marchese Frangipanni was the inventor of the complicated, but very durable, perfume which bears this name." but I can't find the tart Kat makes. Google does not have evidence of a Queen Caroline recipe for "apples a la frangipane". I will have to hunt for it.
When Kat Holloway's friend, Daniel McAdam, is sent on a mission to act as a secretary to Lord Peyton, Kate knows there's more going on than it sounds. She's well aware Daniel's "guvnor", Monaghan, is a hard man who will place Daniel in harm's way again and again until Daniel is killed and his debt to Monaghan is paid. Daniel confesses Lord is a suspected Fenian whose previous secretary disappeared. Daniel advises Kat not to go anywhere near the house or interfere in any way lest Monaghan do something to harm Kat and her daughter. Kat isn't about to let her very good friend go into danger alone and she has a few tricks up her sleeves to keep him safe. Meanwhile, Lady Cynthia comes to Kat with a problem. Cynthia's aunt, Kat's employer, Mrs. Baywater, has received a poison pen letter threatening to reveal her secrets if she doesn't pay up. Kat knows as well as Cynthia does Mrs. Baywater doesn't HAVE secrets such as the letter claims but Cynthia's younger sister, the late Emily Rankin, did and the letter was likely meant for her. Then Cynthia's friends, including Judith Townsend, receive letters as well and asks Kat to figure out who is sending the letters. Kat begins to suspect her case and Daniel's are intertwined and she'll stop at nothing to keep her love AND her country safe.
This mystery took a bit to get into. About one quarter through when the dead body finally shows up at the end of Chapter 9, it picks up. There's another dead body a little later and then the ending is a little bit rushed. There's a bit of excitement for Kat twice but we know she'll be OK. I never guessed who the villain was. There weren't many clues pointing to that person. The whole plot felt low stakes in comparison to some of the previous adventures. It sounded like the series was wrapping up until the end when the conversation reveals the series will be taking a new direction. I think there needs to be ONE more book, a year later, to wrap things up now the romance plot has mostly been resolved.
Kat is such an admirable character. She's tough- mentally and physically because of everything she's been through. She's only about 30 years old or thereabouts but she's had a tough life. Kat is a survivor. She has a big heart but is afraid to let in Daniel because of the trauma she faced with her first husband. She knows in her head Daniel is not like her late husband but her heart still fears being broken. Then there's the matter of his job... She adores her daughter with all her heart and young Grace is growing up so fast and seems aware of how amazing her mother is. Grace is not so naive as Kat hopes and is fully well aware of the fact that "Uncle Daniel" wants to marry her mother. Grace has been socializing more with James, Daniel's son and I think rather than what Kat fears, the two are scheming to get their parents together! James is growing up well and he is a good lad. The four will make a lovely family. Kat can bake in her tea shop, Grace can serve the customers, James can run errands and shop while Daniel acts as taste tester and bodyguard- IF he survives this mission.
I really missed having Cynthia, Thanos, Judith and Bobby involved in the investigation. Judith and Bobby have one scene and Cynthia has a couple including one with Thanos. There's a romantic drama subplot there I could do without. Thanos is sweet, a real gentleman and he knows he has nothing to offer Cynthia so he isn't declaring himself. He should though. I think they'll be OK. Cynthia will manage his salary efficiently. Here we meet Kat's old friend, Hannah. They haven't seen each other in a long time. Hannah is a confidence trickster and Kat believes she can trust Hannah to spy on Daniel and let Kat know he's safe. Hannah is lively and enjoys teasing Kat. She's had a hard lot in life but doesn't regret any of her past adventures or exploits. Hannah is a very "in the moment" sort of person and doesn't dwell on the past or think of the future much, unlike Kat. I really enjoyed getting to know Hannah BUT I'm not sure we can trust her. She has a son who is a surly boy who doesn't trust easily and can't accept Kat's kindnesses she shows to the other urchins who help her. When Hannah reveals her son's name it could be a red flag. I sure hope she's not the villain because I like her but perhaps her son's father has returned from whatever hole he crawled into and is a thug hired by the Fenians and Hannah is trying to protect her son by covering up the plot? Or perhaps she doesn't know what he's up to?
Other delightful characters include Grimes, Daniel's bodyguard who is unwaveringly loyal to Kat and willing to do anything to protect her. He's maybe been knocked in the head a lot but he's sweet and kind. Mr. Fielding only has a cameo but he, too, is worried about his brother and by extension, Kat. I wish Errol had more to do. He's a charming rogue when he's not dangerous. Sweet Tess is tough and can take care of herself but she really does love Constable Greene and there may be political machinations at work to keep them apart so he can't help Kat. That's really, truly evil. Monahan is the real villain in this series. He's cold and evil. He lacks a heart, empathy and any emotions save the desire for vengeance. Inspector MacGregor is a far superior man. He's intelligent and trusts Kat's judgment even though he doesn't like her interference. MacGregor does NOT trust Monaghan and is eager for an excuse to take the man down but of course has to tread lightly because Monaghan is also with the police.
New characters are always suspicious but Lord Peyton seems innocuous enough. He supports Irish Home Rule but not full independence. He seems like a political moderate. Plus he has some kind of illness that prevents him from walking. He must use a wheelchair to get around. Now, the Viscount's man servant, Fagan, just his name sounds villainous. He's big enough to push the ailing Viscount's wheelchair and Hannah thinks Fagan is a ruffian. He knows a lot more than he lets on, I'm sure and he has to be in the thick of whatever is going on.
Lord Payton has an unmarried sister staying with him. I feel bad for Lady Fontaine. She's a bitter widow, a kleptomaniac with a penchant for gossip. No one loves her or wants her around. Her brother tolerates her and gets along with her well enough but she's isolated and alone.
Lord Peyton's most frequent visitor is the Earl of Pelsham, a childhood friend of Lord Peyton. He comes and goes but never stays long. No doubt they discuss their childhood days. Mr. Hampton, the doctor, sounds like he could be suspicious but we already had a doctor villain once so I don't know if the author would do that again. Lord Downes, Viscount Peyton's neighbor, is a hale and hearty country squire, now aged and loves to tell stories about his shooting days back in the country. Lord Downes is naturally more conservative than Lord Peyton and despises liberals who are ruining the country. Hmm sounds familiar. Lovely. Mr and Mrs. Lofthouse are also frequent visitors. They're real radicals and certainly up to something but I think they're just intellectual types who enjoy debating issues and not doing anything in practice to upend their cushy lives. This is evidenced by the fact they spend money freely except on their own staff - not even a tip to the groom or the errand boy. I don't think any of these gentry are villains but one could be directing things behind the scenes and present a different face to their friends.
What happened to Mr. Howard, Lord Peyton's secretary? What did he know or do or not do? Did he run off because he discovered something or was he wacked and given cement shoes? He was from a good family, albeit a younger son and a young man. Perhaps he was sacked and Lord Peyton is lying?
While I enjoyed this book very much, it lacked some of the charm and the danger of earlier books. I do hope there's one more to wrap things up, maybe more short stories in between and please Kat- publish a recipe book!
FYI Kat: The Frangipane tart doesn't mean almond. Mrs. Beeton says "Frangipanni Puddings were originally made chiefly of broken bread and a great variety of flavouring substances. This was named after the Marchese Frangipanni, head of a very ancient Roman family whose privilege it was to supply "holy bread" or wafers to St. Peter's Cathedral, hence the name, derived from the Latin words frangere' (to break) and panis (bread). The Marchese Frangipanni was the inventor of the complicated, but very durable, perfume which bears this name." but I can't find the tart Kat makes. Google does not have evidence of a Queen Caroline recipe for "apples a la frangipane". I will have to hunt for it.
August 24, 2025
3.75 stars - Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Amateur sleuth and professional cook Kat Holloway is back at it in A Silence in Belgrave Square . Between highborn women being blackmailed and her beau, Daniel McAdam, being sent on a life-threatening undercover mission, it’s all Kat can do to keep her wits about her and get the tea cakes out on time.
Jennifer Ashley brings to the forefront another Fenian plot that will endanger many. Daniel’s boss, who’d sooner seen the man dead than free of service, has sent him undercover in a way that prevents Kat from contacting him. Kat isn’t one to sit on the sidelines, so the ever-expanding network of her and Daniel’s contacts is activated. What I liked best about A Silence in Belgrave Square is all the connections Kat has formed. Her friendship with Hannah, a con artist she goes way back with, is engaging and interesting to see play out on the page. Said friendship gives the story a bit of extra energy it needs.
There are two different mysteries at the heart of the book and Kat is making the most of her resources to solve both. I liked watching her put the pieces together, knowing what questions to ask and who can help her get the information. The mysteries aren’t as compelling as watching Kat solve them, but that didn’t overly bother me because I look to the Below Stairs Mysteries more for the relationships than the puzzle of the day. And speaking of relationships, longtime fans of the series will be excited to see things finally progress somewhat for Daniel and Kat, though what happens I’ll leave readers to learn on their own. A Silence in Belgrave Square is an entertaining read and as always, I enjoy spending time with Kat and company and I’m sure fans of the series will feel the same.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Amateur sleuth and professional cook Kat Holloway is back at it in A Silence in Belgrave Square . Between highborn women being blackmailed and her beau, Daniel McAdam, being sent on a life-threatening undercover mission, it’s all Kat can do to keep her wits about her and get the tea cakes out on time.
Jennifer Ashley brings to the forefront another Fenian plot that will endanger many. Daniel’s boss, who’d sooner seen the man dead than free of service, has sent him undercover in a way that prevents Kat from contacting him. Kat isn’t one to sit on the sidelines, so the ever-expanding network of her and Daniel’s contacts is activated. What I liked best about A Silence in Belgrave Square is all the connections Kat has formed. Her friendship with Hannah, a con artist she goes way back with, is engaging and interesting to see play out on the page. Said friendship gives the story a bit of extra energy it needs.
There are two different mysteries at the heart of the book and Kat is making the most of her resources to solve both. I liked watching her put the pieces together, knowing what questions to ask and who can help her get the information. The mysteries aren’t as compelling as watching Kat solve them, but that didn’t overly bother me because I look to the Below Stairs Mysteries more for the relationships than the puzzle of the day. And speaking of relationships, longtime fans of the series will be excited to see things finally progress somewhat for Daniel and Kat, though what happens I’ll leave readers to learn on their own. A Silence in Belgrave Square is an entertaining read and as always, I enjoy spending time with Kat and company and I’m sure fans of the series will feel the same.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 15, 2025
This time around our ever-valiant Kat is determined to solve the mystery of a series of poison-pen letters received by a number of her friends and acquaintances threatening to reveal the scandals in their lives. Meanwhile, Daniel McAdams, the man she loves, tells her that he is about to undertake another secret mission that will take him away from her for what may turn out to be a long time. As she pursues answers she finds that somehow the blackmail plot is involved with Daniel's mission and that both of their lives are now at risk.
It is always a pleasure to revisit these characters and the setting of Victorian London. Everything from the way the characters speak to the description of the foggy, smoky air to the dishes Kat cooks is rendered in such detail that it immediately draws you in and anchors you in the time period. There are a few twists in the complicated plot and the romance is always satisfyingly sweet. The only slight flaw for me was in the fact that the characters who are victims of the blackmailer disappear once Kat discovers the connection and are never heard from again. There is a lot going on so it's not a dealbreaker, but it did strike me as a little odd. Still, this remains a stellar series.
It is always a pleasure to revisit these characters and the setting of Victorian London. Everything from the way the characters speak to the description of the foggy, smoky air to the dishes Kat cooks is rendered in such detail that it immediately draws you in and anchors you in the time period. There are a few twists in the complicated plot and the romance is always satisfyingly sweet. The only slight flaw for me was in the fact that the characters who are victims of the blackmailer disappear once Kat discovers the connection and are never heard from again. There is a lot going on so it's not a dealbreaker, but it did strike me as a little odd. Still, this remains a stellar series.
September 18, 2025
Picking up some time since the previous tale, A Silence in Belgrave Square opens with Daniel telling Kat that he’s going undercover in a very dangerous household and she cannot help him this time. Filled with worry, Kat convinces an old friend and confidence trickster to enter the home as a maid to keep an eye on Daniel. Meanwhile, some of Lady Cynthia’s friends have received horrible blackmail letters and Cynthia asks Kat to help.
A Silence in Belgrave Square is an exciting, nerve-wracking tale filled with adventure and intrigue. The parallel mysteries keep Kat both busy and worried. I love how much Kat’s character has developed. She is confident in her instincts and ability to solve a crime. She’s bold at times, especially with Inspector McGregor, and while unrealistic, it’s fun to see her self-assured and strong. She attempts to be mindful of her station, but more often than not, disregards propriety. I love that she is friends with wonderful people from all classes.
My favorite parts of the story continue to be those surrounding Kat’s personal life. And there is SO MUCH to love in this book. Her kind, honest manner has endured her to many and I love that she relies on friends to help her. I also love getting to see more of her daughter, Grace, as she matures. Best of all is her budding relationship with Daniel. I adore how she opens up to him, and he to her, in this one. They have frank conversations about their fears, dreams, and the future.
Narration: Kat’s story is shared via her first person POV. The narrator provides a strong, working class female British accent, well suited to Kat’s role. Piazza alters her performance for dialogue, adjusting for social class, gender, and age. She is most successful with the other females and the working class characters. Her males are slightly deeper but often whispery and soft, making them harder to understand. Generally, each character is unique.
A Silence in Belgrave Square is probably my favorite book in the Kat Holloway / Below Stairs Mysteries. It is a wonderful blend of mystery, friendship, and romance. I love that so much has been settled and moving forward. With how things ended, I was worried it may be the last book in the series, but fear not, there is at least one more contracted title.
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: B+
A Silence in Belgrave Square is an exciting, nerve-wracking tale filled with adventure and intrigue. The parallel mysteries keep Kat both busy and worried. I love how much Kat’s character has developed. She is confident in her instincts and ability to solve a crime. She’s bold at times, especially with Inspector McGregor, and while unrealistic, it’s fun to see her self-assured and strong. She attempts to be mindful of her station, but more often than not, disregards propriety. I love that she is friends with wonderful people from all classes.
My favorite parts of the story continue to be those surrounding Kat’s personal life. And there is SO MUCH to love in this book. Her kind, honest manner has endured her to many and I love that she relies on friends to help her. I also love getting to see more of her daughter, Grace, as she matures. Best of all is her budding relationship with Daniel. I adore how she opens up to him, and he to her, in this one. They have frank conversations about their fears, dreams, and the future.
Narration: Kat’s story is shared via her first person POV. The narrator provides a strong, working class female British accent, well suited to Kat’s role. Piazza alters her performance for dialogue, adjusting for social class, gender, and age. She is most successful with the other females and the working class characters. Her males are slightly deeper but often whispery and soft, making them harder to understand. Generally, each character is unique.
A Silence in Belgrave Square is probably my favorite book in the Kat Holloway / Below Stairs Mysteries. It is a wonderful blend of mystery, friendship, and romance. I love that so much has been settled and moving forward. With how things ended, I was worried it may be the last book in the series, but fear not, there is at least one more contracted title.
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: B+
October 4, 2025
I may not rush to read the next book in this series. There is so much repetition in series like these; things said in every book so someone who is reading this book as a standalone or is just getting into the series isn't lost. How she feels about her daughter, how she feels about her days out when she sees her daughter, blah blah. Great, but to read passages that seem to be exactly what I've read seven other times started to get to me. I felt like while the mystery being solved changed, everything else about the book, all the underpinnings, was absolutely the same. Granted, I did just listen to another book in the series recently, so maybe not enough time to cleanse my (brain) palate. So pretty much a 2.5 star read for me.
October 4, 2025
This thrilling addition to the series stars out as usual, with Kat upset because Daniel has to go away for work, and isn’t sure when he will be back. Kat meets up with an old friend from before her ‘marriage’, and I really like this friend Hannah, and I hope we get to see her again soon.
The whole mystery is a good one, and really kept me guessing because I wouldn’t have had a clue, honestly. I liked the whole blackmail letters side of things better than I did the whole Irish Home Rule and the Fenians angle. But the progression of Kat and Daniel’s relationship is the best part of this whole novel! I was thrilled that things are finally progressing by more than the snail’s pace it had been going, before this. I just hope that it doesn’t take another 10 novels before the two get married…..?
Anna-Marie Piazza is again the narrator for the audiobook version of this novel, and I couldn’t be happier about this. Her voice will always be associated with Kat Holloway and A Below Stairs Mystery novels. This series just wouldn’t be the same without her. Kudos to everyone involved in this project, at Dreamscape Media.
4 stars, and highly recommended. But PLEASE read this series in order!
The whole mystery is a good one, and really kept me guessing because I wouldn’t have had a clue, honestly. I liked the whole blackmail letters side of things better than I did the whole Irish Home Rule and the Fenians angle. But the progression of Kat and Daniel’s relationship is the best part of this whole novel! I was thrilled that things are finally progressing by more than the snail’s pace it had been going, before this. I just hope that it doesn’t take another 10 novels before the two get married…..?
Anna-Marie Piazza is again the narrator for the audiobook version of this novel, and I couldn’t be happier about this. Her voice will always be associated with Kat Holloway and A Below Stairs Mystery novels. This series just wouldn’t be the same without her. Kudos to everyone involved in this project, at Dreamscape Media.
4 stars, and highly recommended. But PLEASE read this series in order!
July 19, 2025
In this eighth Below Stairs mystery, Cook Kat Holloway investigates the suspicious circumstances of the death of an elderly viscount Her beau Daniel has been sent into the viscount's home as a personal secretary at the orders of his boss who wants Daniel in dangerous situations and wants him dead. Monaghan has promised that this will be Daniel's last mission for him if he successfully resolves it.
The viscount is suspected of being part of the Irish war for self-rule. The Fenians don't mind some terrorism in the form of bombs in various places if it will help their cause. Managhan wants Daniel to find some proof of the viscount's involvement.
Meanwhile, Lady Cynthia brings Kat's attention to some blackmail letters that have been sent to various ladies with prominent husbands including Lady Cynthia's deceased sister and some of Lady Cynthia's friends. At first, the letters don't seem to have a connection with Daniel's investigation, but ties are found, and the danger ramps up. The second letters demand a payment of the woman using her influence to convince her influential husband or relative to the writer's viewpoint.
Kat isn't going to let Daniel investigate alone despite his orders for her to keep out of it. In fact, none of Daniel's friends are going to let him investigate on his own. Among other things, Kat inserts a friend of hers as a maid in the house and Daniel's foster brother inserts a groom into service for a neighboring household.
This story was an exciting entry into the series. I especially liked that Kat finally comes to realize what she really feels for Daniel. I also like the setting, and the pride Kat takes in her work as a cook.
The viscount is suspected of being part of the Irish war for self-rule. The Fenians don't mind some terrorism in the form of bombs in various places if it will help their cause. Managhan wants Daniel to find some proof of the viscount's involvement.
Meanwhile, Lady Cynthia brings Kat's attention to some blackmail letters that have been sent to various ladies with prominent husbands including Lady Cynthia's deceased sister and some of Lady Cynthia's friends. At first, the letters don't seem to have a connection with Daniel's investigation, but ties are found, and the danger ramps up. The second letters demand a payment of the woman using her influence to convince her influential husband or relative to the writer's viewpoint.
Kat isn't going to let Daniel investigate alone despite his orders for her to keep out of it. In fact, none of Daniel's friends are going to let him investigate on his own. Among other things, Kat inserts a friend of hers as a maid in the house and Daniel's foster brother inserts a groom into service for a neighboring household.
This story was an exciting entry into the series. I especially liked that Kat finally comes to realize what she really feels for Daniel. I also like the setting, and the pride Kat takes in her work as a cook.
December 17, 2025
Kat was ever growing bolder and she just actively inserted herself in this case. Mostly, because she was worried about Daniel, which was super endearing. I loved their interactions and they way their relationship developed. This was an interesting case with lots of different connecting threads. Kat was her usual calm logical self and Daniel kept charming the pants off everyone. He didn't take Kat's feelings for him for granted and he always looked so surprised when she told him that she truly cared for him. It felt like Kat's dreams for her future became more defined. I can recommend this series if you like a slow burn historical romance with murder and mystery around every corner. It is definitely best to read these books in order.
December 1, 2025
This has been a very fun series! A Silence in Belgrave Square packs in the excitement and danger as Kat juggles duties below stairs and investigating treasonous toffs around London’s upscale neighborhoods. Favorite characters like Daniel and Mr Fielding return while new characters introduced from Kay’s past play pivotal roles.
September 12, 2025
Love this series
September 15, 2025
DELIGHTFUL!!!
October 15, 2025
Rating : 2 ⭐
November 22, 2025
Another good story in the series. I hope the series continues.
August 21, 2025
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Kat Holloway series is one of my favorites in the historical mystery genre. We're well into the series now and I would read these books in order. Daniel is working for Mongahan on a new dangerous case which may be his most dangerous and hopefully, last one.
Kat, being a cook, means there are lots of food references which I love. There are her co-workers in the household. Her daughter, Grace is a teen now and she gets a visit just twice a week with her. It's a difficult time in history for women with limited choices. Kat is starting to ponder these options for Grace.
She wants a life with Daniel and is frustrated with being unable to work with him on this case. He is posing as secretary to a man in a wheelchair who seems favorable to Irish Home Rule and possibly the Fenians. She has a friend of sorts who is a con artist who goes in to pose as a maid. Mr. Fielding has his "men" placed next door in the stables to watch out for him.
Lady Cynthia and her friends are concerned about blackmail letters. They seem to be all to women who have men they can pressure. The one that came to the house was for her sister though, who died 3 years ago. They ponder who would want to pressure officials and who would be privy to the various gossip but can't come up with anyone or even one couple who would have both aspects.
Things get dire before they resolve and of course, Kat is right in the middle of it. Her views on Daniel, his work, and her own work seem to be updated at the end. I've thought that before though, and the next book seems back to the status quo.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Kat Holloway series is one of my favorites in the historical mystery genre. We're well into the series now and I would read these books in order. Daniel is working for Mongahan on a new dangerous case which may be his most dangerous and hopefully, last one.
Kat, being a cook, means there are lots of food references which I love. There are her co-workers in the household. Her daughter, Grace is a teen now and she gets a visit just twice a week with her. It's a difficult time in history for women with limited choices. Kat is starting to ponder these options for Grace.
She wants a life with Daniel and is frustrated with being unable to work with him on this case. He is posing as secretary to a man in a wheelchair who seems favorable to Irish Home Rule and possibly the Fenians. She has a friend of sorts who is a con artist who goes in to pose as a maid. Mr. Fielding has his "men" placed next door in the stables to watch out for him.
Lady Cynthia and her friends are concerned about blackmail letters. They seem to be all to women who have men they can pressure. The one that came to the house was for her sister though, who died 3 years ago. They ponder who would want to pressure officials and who would be privy to the various gossip but can't come up with anyone or even one couple who would have both aspects.
Things get dire before they resolve and of course, Kat is right in the middle of it. Her views on Daniel, his work, and her own work seem to be updated at the end. I've thought that before though, and the next book seems back to the status quo.
November 1, 2025
Finally some movement on the relationship front.
September 11, 2025
At long last!
Dear Jennifer thank you for keeping us in suspense!
Another great tale of Kat and Daniel, intrepidly assisting to bring down the antagonists in London.
Lovely use of secondary characters and culminating in a successful police outcome. Romance is in the air and so pleased we have a new direction for them both. Their magnetism leaps off the pages.
So excited for the next adventure.
Dear Jennifer thank you for keeping us in suspense!
Another great tale of Kat and Daniel, intrepidly assisting to bring down the antagonists in London.
Lovely use of secondary characters and culminating in a successful police outcome. Romance is in the air and so pleased we have a new direction for them both. Their magnetism leaps off the pages.
So excited for the next adventure.
July 30, 2025
I was entranced by book 7 in this series, Speculations in Sin, and am now a hard core fan. If you are a fan of the late, great Victoria Thompson, this might also be the series for you. Set in Victorian London, the main character, Kat Holloway, is a cook for a wealthy family. While I have read many Victorian mysteries, this is the rare series that focuses on the servants rather than the aristocrats upstairs. They are the minor characters, the downstairs characters – cooks, maids, delivery men, urchin boys – are the main feature.
Kat is the single mother of a daughter, Grace, who lives with a good friend of hers while she works. She’s only able to see Grace once a week on her day out. As a reader, you feel the hard pull every time she leaves her daughter to go back to work. The rest of her heart is occupied by one Daniel McAdam, an undercover policeman who is paying off a dangerous debt. As the book opens, Daniel tells her he’ll be on an assignment for an unspecified period, and they can have absolutely no contact while it’s going on.
Kat is not putting up with this situation, however, and leverages her network of street urchins, Daniel’s son, and other friends to keep a light watch on the house in Belgrave Square where he’s to be working. The wheels are frequently greased by the pastries she prepares and shares out judiciously. She also recruits an old friend, Hannah, to get a job in the household as a maid and keep an eye on things. The two women are able to meet up fairly often, so Kat is able to get a proof of life report, at least.
The case Daniel is working on seems to be following up on the activities of the Fenians, who were using a dynamite bombing campaign to try and secure Home Rule for Ireland. The house where Daniel is working is apparently a nexus of the organization.
To me the strength of this book was the renewed friendship between Hannah and Kat – Hannah is a con artist, basically, but she’s worked as a maid in fancy houses. When she and Kat meet, she’s in deep disguise, sometimes so deep Kat doesn’t recognize her at first. The way the two women illustrate the way society operated in 1880s London from the point of view of the “regular” person is very well done.
There’s also a subplot involving some poison pen letters, giving Kat a legitimate excuse to snoop around, especially as the letters seem to have originated in the very block where Daniel is undercover. To me, the mystery part of the story, which was fine, was the least of it. What is so great about these books are the characters, all of them fully and memorably delineated, the time period, and the snappy pace Ashley keeps up throughout the book. These are brisk, fun, satisfying reads.
Kat is the single mother of a daughter, Grace, who lives with a good friend of hers while she works. She’s only able to see Grace once a week on her day out. As a reader, you feel the hard pull every time she leaves her daughter to go back to work. The rest of her heart is occupied by one Daniel McAdam, an undercover policeman who is paying off a dangerous debt. As the book opens, Daniel tells her he’ll be on an assignment for an unspecified period, and they can have absolutely no contact while it’s going on.
Kat is not putting up with this situation, however, and leverages her network of street urchins, Daniel’s son, and other friends to keep a light watch on the house in Belgrave Square where he’s to be working. The wheels are frequently greased by the pastries she prepares and shares out judiciously. She also recruits an old friend, Hannah, to get a job in the household as a maid and keep an eye on things. The two women are able to meet up fairly often, so Kat is able to get a proof of life report, at least.
The case Daniel is working on seems to be following up on the activities of the Fenians, who were using a dynamite bombing campaign to try and secure Home Rule for Ireland. The house where Daniel is working is apparently a nexus of the organization.
To me the strength of this book was the renewed friendship between Hannah and Kat – Hannah is a con artist, basically, but she’s worked as a maid in fancy houses. When she and Kat meet, she’s in deep disguise, sometimes so deep Kat doesn’t recognize her at first. The way the two women illustrate the way society operated in 1880s London from the point of view of the “regular” person is very well done.
There’s also a subplot involving some poison pen letters, giving Kat a legitimate excuse to snoop around, especially as the letters seem to have originated in the very block where Daniel is undercover. To me, the mystery part of the story, which was fine, was the least of it. What is so great about these books are the characters, all of them fully and memorably delineated, the time period, and the snappy pace Ashley keeps up throughout the book. These are brisk, fun, satisfying reads.
October 13, 2025
MY RATING GUIDE: 4.5 Stars. I have been enjoying this series from the beginning (with the exception of The Price of Lemon Cake). I listened to a library audiobook of A SILENCE IN BELGRAVE SQUARE, very nicely performed by Anne-Marie Piazza. I listened during my daily walks and gardening chores, extending my time outside just to hear a few more chapters, finding ASIBS a most satisfying mystery. :D
5= I Loved this; this was great & I most likely will read again (I SELDOM give 5 Stars); 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT & WILL MOST LIKELY READ IT AGAIN; 3.5= I enjoyed it & might read it again; 3= This was okay/fairly good & might or might not read it again; 2= Nope, not for me; 1= dnf/What was that?
London, May, 1884 ~
Mayfair under-stairs cook Mrs. Kat Holloway is concerned when her beau,
Daniel McAdam, man-of-all-jobs, is pulled into this latest investigation of an anarchist group known for their violence while supporting Ireland’s claim for independence. Daniel grew up on the streets of London, an orphan who survived by his wits, fists and charms, oftentimes illegally. A ruthless and powerful government man with knowledge of Daniel’s past has been forcing Daniel into undercover jobs which risk Daniel’s life. This time Daniel is posing as a secretary in the home of a man suspected of working with the anarchists. This group has killed in the past, additional murders means nothing to them.
Comments ~
1) A SILENCE IN BELGRAVE SQUARE is bk 8 in the Kat Holloway Below Stairs Historical British Mystery series. I prefer reading the books in order as the characters and their relationships continue to develop from book to book. Each title contains its own conflict and resolution, however, and could be read (although not ideally) out of order.
As I finished with a satisfying smile I caught myself hoping that the characters I have come to respect and enjoy don’t find themselves (via the author’s pen) the victims of some future terrible crime. Losing any of them would be such a disappointment. Again, I much enjoyed the voices and reading performed by Anne-Marie Piazza and will be picking up my own copy to revisit in the future.
I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy:
> Character-driven novels/series.
> Mysteries resonating somewhere between Gritty mysteries and Cozy.
> British Mysteries.
> Historical Mysteries.
> Seasoned (mature) main characters, refined through circumstances, resilient, determined and honorable.
> Fiction with a touch of humor & warmth, leaving the reader with a sense of hope for our world.
> ‘Escape’ fiction set in a different time and place.
READER CAUTIONS ~ Suitable for most readers.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used at times.
VIOLENCE - PG-13. Death occurs but is not described in a dark or graphic manner.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None. Kisses.
5= I Loved this; this was great & I most likely will read again (I SELDOM give 5 Stars); 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT & WILL MOST LIKELY READ IT AGAIN; 3.5= I enjoyed it & might read it again; 3= This was okay/fairly good & might or might not read it again; 2= Nope, not for me; 1= dnf/What was that?
London, May, 1884 ~
Mayfair under-stairs cook Mrs. Kat Holloway is concerned when her beau,
Daniel McAdam, man-of-all-jobs, is pulled into this latest investigation of an anarchist group known for their violence while supporting Ireland’s claim for independence. Daniel grew up on the streets of London, an orphan who survived by his wits, fists and charms, oftentimes illegally. A ruthless and powerful government man with knowledge of Daniel’s past has been forcing Daniel into undercover jobs which risk Daniel’s life. This time Daniel is posing as a secretary in the home of a man suspected of working with the anarchists. This group has killed in the past, additional murders means nothing to them.
Comments ~
1) A SILENCE IN BELGRAVE SQUARE is bk 8 in the Kat Holloway Below Stairs Historical British Mystery series. I prefer reading the books in order as the characters and their relationships continue to develop from book to book. Each title contains its own conflict and resolution, however, and could be read (although not ideally) out of order.
As I finished with a satisfying smile I caught myself hoping that the characters I have come to respect and enjoy don’t find themselves (via the author’s pen) the victims of some future terrible crime. Losing any of them would be such a disappointment. Again, I much enjoyed the voices and reading performed by Anne-Marie Piazza and will be picking up my own copy to revisit in the future.
I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy:
> Character-driven novels/series.
> Mysteries resonating somewhere between Gritty mysteries and Cozy.
> British Mysteries.
> Historical Mysteries.
> Seasoned (mature) main characters, refined through circumstances, resilient, determined and honorable.
> Fiction with a touch of humor & warmth, leaving the reader with a sense of hope for our world.
> ‘Escape’ fiction set in a different time and place.
READER CAUTIONS ~ Suitable for most readers.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used at times.
VIOLENCE - PG-13. Death occurs but is not described in a dark or graphic manner.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None. Kisses.
November 17, 2025
Another worthy installment of this series of historical mysteries with a pinch of romance starring the cook-cum-sleuth Kat Holloway.
This time, her beau, Daniel McAdam, has to go on a dangerous undercover mission, posing as a secretary to a peer living in Belgrave Square. Kat can't just sit waiting, so she tries to keep an eye on Daniel (and his safety). At the same time, she becomes involved in a blackmail plot, at the request of Lady Cynthia. Soon, both cases get tangled, there's a murder, a terrorist plot... with Mrs Holloway in the thick of it, cooking mouthwatering dishes and thwarting the villains at the same time.
As always, the mystery plot is intriguing and intricate enough, overall quite satisfying. Only, this once I felt that the "informal" resources at Kat's disposal (Mr Fielding's shady contacts, Mr. Grimes and his associates, Kat's old friend Hannah, some street urchins...) were a bit excessive to be believable. All this people have nothing better or more urgent to do than being around to protect or help Kat 24/7? Also, I had the impression that the pace of the story wasn't as good as in other books, with the first part of the story going a bit slow (mind you, it might be just me being in an impatient mood).
On the other hand, at this point of the series, it's a pleasure to encounter not only Mrs. Holloway and Mr. McAdam, but also the cohort of supporting characters who always help them in their adventures. In every book, their personal stories evolve gradually, so when you read about them, it feels like getting news about some old friend (little Grace keeps growing, James is already a strapping young man, Lady Cynthia and Mr. Thanos fall deeper in love in their peculiar courtship...). And the slow romance between the two main characters moves on, seemingly closer to an eventual happy ending.
The historical feeling deserves, as usual, a special mention. Is it really possible to garner so much information about domestic life in the 1880s London from Mrs Beeton's book? The level of detail is incredible and it really contributes to enjoying this novel. There are only a few minor Americanisms or anachronisms, nothing of importance that gets me out of the story (I've almost become inured to having cream with the tea, although I confess that reading about a boy running in his knickers conjured an incongruous picture of a boy in women's underwear!).
I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series... it'll be a long wait.
This time, her beau, Daniel McAdam, has to go on a dangerous undercover mission, posing as a secretary to a peer living in Belgrave Square. Kat can't just sit waiting, so she tries to keep an eye on Daniel (and his safety). At the same time, she becomes involved in a blackmail plot, at the request of Lady Cynthia. Soon, both cases get tangled, there's a murder, a terrorist plot... with Mrs Holloway in the thick of it, cooking mouthwatering dishes and thwarting the villains at the same time.
As always, the mystery plot is intriguing and intricate enough, overall quite satisfying. Only, this once I felt that the "informal" resources at Kat's disposal (Mr Fielding's shady contacts, Mr. Grimes and his associates, Kat's old friend Hannah, some street urchins...) were a bit excessive to be believable. All this people have nothing better or more urgent to do than being around to protect or help Kat 24/7? Also, I had the impression that the pace of the story wasn't as good as in other books, with the first part of the story going a bit slow (mind you, it might be just me being in an impatient mood).
On the other hand, at this point of the series, it's a pleasure to encounter not only Mrs. Holloway and Mr. McAdam, but also the cohort of supporting characters who always help them in their adventures. In every book, their personal stories evolve gradually, so when you read about them, it feels like getting news about some old friend (little Grace keeps growing, James is already a strapping young man, Lady Cynthia and Mr. Thanos fall deeper in love in their peculiar courtship...). And the slow romance between the two main characters moves on, seemingly closer to an eventual happy ending.
The historical feeling deserves, as usual, a special mention. Is it really possible to garner so much information about domestic life in the 1880s London from Mrs Beeton's book? The level of detail is incredible and it really contributes to enjoying this novel. There are only a few minor Americanisms or anachronisms, nothing of importance that gets me out of the story (I've almost become inured to having cream with the tea, although I confess that reading about a boy running in his knickers conjured an incongruous picture of a boy in women's underwear!).
I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series... it'll be a long wait.
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