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Wrexford & Sloane #8
Murder at King’s Crossing
11 hours, 46 minutes
For fans of Miss Scarlet and the Duke and Bridgerton—a masterfully plotted mystery that combines engaging protagonists with rich historical detail and “an unusually rich look at Regency life,” (Publishers Weekly), plus a touch of romance that readers of Amanda Quick and Deanna Raybourn will savor.
Celebration is in the air at Wrexford and Charlotte’s country estate as they host the nuptials of their friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. But on the afternoon of the wedding, the festivities are interrupted when the local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, his only identification an invitation to the wedding. Lady Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend and a brilliant engineer who is rumored to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. That he had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding, stirs a number of unsettling questions.
Both men were involved in the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society, a scientific group dedicated to making radical improvements in the speed and cost of transportation throughout Britain. Is someone plotting to steal Milton’s designs? And why has her cousin disappeared?
Wrexford and Charlotte were looking forward to spending a peaceful interlude in the country, but when Lady Cordelia resolves to solve the mystery, they offer their help, along with that of the Weasels and their unconventional inner circle of friends. The investigation turns tangled and soon all of them are caught up in a treacherous web of greed, ambition, and dangerous secrets. And when the trail takes a shocking turn, Wrexford and Charlotte must decide what risks they are willing to take with their family to bring the villains to justice . . .
For fans of Miss Scarlet and the Duke and Bridgerton—a masterfully plotted mystery that combines engaging protagonists with rich historical detail and “an unusually rich look at Regency life,” (Publishers Weekly), plus a touch of romance that readers of Amanda Quick and Deanna Raybourn will savor.
Celebration is in the air at Wrexford and Charlotte’s country estate as they host the nuptials of their friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. But on the afternoon of the wedding, the festivities are interrupted when the local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, his only identification an invitation to the wedding. Lady Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend and a brilliant engineer who is rumored to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. That he had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding, stirs a number of unsettling questions.
Both men were involved in the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society, a scientific group dedicated to making radical improvements in the speed and cost of transportation throughout Britain. Is someone plotting to steal Milton’s designs? And why has her cousin disappeared?
Wrexford and Charlotte were looking forward to spending a peaceful interlude in the country, but when Lady Cordelia resolves to solve the mystery, they offer their help, along with that of the Weasels and their unconventional inner circle of friends. The investigation turns tangled and soon all of them are caught up in a treacherous web of greed, ambition, and dangerous secrets. And when the trail takes a shocking turn, Wrexford and Charlotte must decide what risks they are willing to take with their family to bring the villains to justice . . .
12 pages, Audiobook
First published September 24, 2024
587 people are currently reading
15799 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Penrose
22 books1,981 followersAndrea Penrose is the USA Today bestselling author of Regency-era historical fiction, including the acclaimed Wrexford & Sloane mystery series, as well as Regency romances written under the names Cara Elliott and Andrea Pickens. Published internationally in ten languages, she is a three-time RITA Award finalist and the recipient of numerous writing awards, including two Daphne Du Maurier Awards for Historical Mystery and two Gold Leaf Awards.
A graduate of Yale University with a B.A. in Art and an M.F.A. in Graphic Design, Andrea fell in love with Regency England after reading Pride and Prejudice and has maintained a fascination with the era’s swirling silks and radical new ideas throughout her writing career. She lives in Connecticut and blogs with a community of historical fiction authors at WordWenches.com. She also can be found at AndreaPenrose.com and on Instagram @AndreaPenroseBooks.
A graduate of Yale University with a B.A. in Art and an M.F.A. in Graphic Design, Andrea fell in love with Regency England after reading Pride and Prejudice and has maintained a fascination with the era’s swirling silks and radical new ideas throughout her writing career. She lives in Connecticut and blogs with a community of historical fiction authors at WordWenches.com. She also can be found at AndreaPenrose.com and on Instagram @AndreaPenroseBooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 347 reviews
September 30, 2024
I think I am done with this series for awhile. The best part of the series were the young boys and they have less and less to do ....
I am also a bit tired of the sanctimonious inner monologues of our lead female character. One minute she tells herself that her political cartoons help the masses and the next minute we are made aware that most of the masses can't read.
One thing I liked about this series was the weaving in of technology as the basis for most of the mysteries. However this one just dragged. It seemed every character in the story -except for the boys - gave the same lecture/prophecy/description of how better roads/bridges would change the world - for the masses, governments, and industry - honestly someone said it in almost every chapter. By half -way through the book I started skipping any time the story explained this ONCE again...
yes - it's time for me to put a pause on this series. This last book wasn't for me.
I am also a bit tired of the sanctimonious inner monologues of our lead female character. One minute she tells herself that her political cartoons help the masses and the next minute we are made aware that most of the masses can't read.
One thing I liked about this series was the weaving in of technology as the basis for most of the mysteries. However this one just dragged. It seemed every character in the story -except for the boys - gave the same lecture/prophecy/description of how better roads/bridges would change the world - for the masses, governments, and industry - honestly someone said it in almost every chapter. By half -way through the book I started skipping any time the story explained this ONCE again...
yes - it's time for me to put a pause on this series. This last book wasn't for me.
September 1, 2024
Murder at King’s Crossing is a complex murder mystery set in Regency Era Britain. The victim is a brilliant engineer whose groundbreaking work involving the design and construction of bridges would revolutionize transportation and economic development for years to come. But there are conspirators who would profit financially if they could steal the designs.
There are lots of red herrings included in the story which will keep you guessing about the identity of the murderer. At times, it is difficult to follow the activities of the many different characters involved in the plot, as well as the detailed descriptions of bridge design. Although this book is part of a series, I was able to catch on to the relationships between the characters and didn’t consider that a problem.
Thank you to Goodreads first reads, Penguin Random House, LLC, and author Andrea Penrose for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this novel!
There are lots of red herrings included in the story which will keep you guessing about the identity of the murderer. At times, it is difficult to follow the activities of the many different characters involved in the plot, as well as the detailed descriptions of bridge design. Although this book is part of a series, I was able to catch on to the relationships between the characters and didn’t consider that a problem.
Thank you to Goodreads first reads, Penguin Random House, LLC, and author Andrea Penrose for giving me the opportunity to read the ARC of this novel!
October 28, 2024
3.5 stars knocked down to three for reasons below.
Oh, this book was so frustrating! It so desperately needed another round of editing. There's a good book buried under the verbal bloat.
It was great to see everyone again. There were some amusing bits, the Weasels were in fine form, and there were some interesting new characters. I can't say that the mystery was particularly difficult to solve, but the author threw in some nice red herrings.
However, my eyes did glaze over from all the repetitious dialogue. Every time a new character was introduced they did the same set piece about the importance of bridges before adding their bit toward solving the puzzle. I got the message the first time.
There is supposedly at least one more book to come. I think it's time to wrap up this series.
Oh, this book was so frustrating! It so desperately needed another round of editing. There's a good book buried under the verbal bloat.
It was great to see everyone again. There were some amusing bits, the Weasels were in fine form, and there were some interesting new characters. I can't say that the mystery was particularly difficult to solve, but the author threw in some nice red herrings.
However, my eyes did glaze over from all the repetitious dialogue. Every time a new character was introduced they did the same set piece about the importance of bridges before adding their bit toward solving the puzzle. I got the message the first time.
There is supposedly at least one more book to come. I think it's time to wrap up this series.
December 15, 2024
Okay I actually need to stop reading these. They are so annoying. The author clearly is obsessed with her own characters and refuses to allow them to have any real flaws and/or personalities. Wrexford = arrogant earl who is into science but his bark is worse than his bite ladies! Charlotte = passionate about social justice but of course is actually a Lady. This whole series tries to be like rich people are so horrible really and the poor people are so honest and humble, but it’s so unserious because Wrexford is constantly pulling the DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM card to get his way. I mean it’s hard to take seriously that you care about inequality when all of your characters are in the aristocracy. But like, the GOOD type of aristocrat with strangely 21st century values.
Charlotte is constantly musing how shallow and judgmental society is beyond its “glittering facade” (she uses this phrase at least forty times per book) and it’s like, We get it, Char! You think you’re better than everyone else because they care about clothes! The only other women who she actually likes are her aunt and her one friend. Oh and her loyal housekeeper, of course; this series is crawling with Faithful Retainers.
She is the most Not Like Other Girls that ever girled. Her flaw is that she doesn’t care about parties even though she’s a countess. This is true feminism! She also adopted two orphans from the slums who are constantly referred to throughout the series as “guttersnipes” which seems…bad. Oh also she earns her living being the “most famous” (lol) basically cartoonist, satirizing the totally vapid and decadent upper class. People are constantly saying, “how did AJ Quill find out about [insert rich person event here]?????”(They were obviously much dumber back then.) Her entire vibe is going to every society event, commenting to herself how disgusting that so much money was spent on said event when it could have fed X number of poor people in the slums, and then goes home to anonymously troll everyone she knows, all while maintaining her own moral superiority. In reality, she doesn’t really like the “regular people” she claims to care about. She spends zero time in their company, does nothing but draw pictures in order to help them, and then feels good about herself for being better than everyone.
She is absolutely devoid of humor and yet we’re constantly told that humor is an essential part of her relationship with Wrexford. Neither of them are remotely funny, and are actually so cringe that they should be locked up.
Wrexford’s entire personality is being rude and liking science and whiskey. Honestly he’s less annoying but also has the depth of a piece of paper. I would rant about him as much as charlotte but he’s actually so boring, you could replace him with a sack of potatoes that occasionally yells at people and no one would ever know the difference.
I won’t even get into the sloppy writing, but I will say I started actually counting how many times the author used the words “dastards” to talk about the unknown murderer and it was 26 times. In one book.
Charlotte is constantly musing how shallow and judgmental society is beyond its “glittering facade” (she uses this phrase at least forty times per book) and it’s like, We get it, Char! You think you’re better than everyone else because they care about clothes! The only other women who she actually likes are her aunt and her one friend. Oh and her loyal housekeeper, of course; this series is crawling with Faithful Retainers.
She is the most Not Like Other Girls that ever girled. Her flaw is that she doesn’t care about parties even though she’s a countess. This is true feminism! She also adopted two orphans from the slums who are constantly referred to throughout the series as “guttersnipes” which seems…bad. Oh also she earns her living being the “most famous” (lol) basically cartoonist, satirizing the totally vapid and decadent upper class. People are constantly saying, “how did AJ Quill find out about [insert rich person event here]?????”(They were obviously much dumber back then.) Her entire vibe is going to every society event, commenting to herself how disgusting that so much money was spent on said event when it could have fed X number of poor people in the slums, and then goes home to anonymously troll everyone she knows, all while maintaining her own moral superiority. In reality, she doesn’t really like the “regular people” she claims to care about. She spends zero time in their company, does nothing but draw pictures in order to help them, and then feels good about herself for being better than everyone.
She is absolutely devoid of humor and yet we’re constantly told that humor is an essential part of her relationship with Wrexford. Neither of them are remotely funny, and are actually so cringe that they should be locked up.
Wrexford’s entire personality is being rude and liking science and whiskey. Honestly he’s less annoying but also has the depth of a piece of paper. I would rant about him as much as charlotte but he’s actually so boring, you could replace him with a sack of potatoes that occasionally yells at people and no one would ever know the difference.
I won’t even get into the sloppy writing, but I will say I started actually counting how many times the author used the words “dastards” to talk about the unknown murderer and it was 26 times. In one book.
September 27, 2024
A few thoughts…
- I am heartily tired of hearing about Mac’s delicious ginger biscuits/cookies
- several instances of over used words and phrases continue to occur, such as miscreants, feathered a kiss,
- for people who love each other so passionately, we hear very little about their physical relationship. One wonders how it’s possible Charlotte isn’t pregnant yet.
- the Weasels seem to speak in flowery language sometimes (for example Peregrine talks about his father, saying ‘He had a wonderful laugh. It sort of wrapped around you like sun-warmed honey.’)
- there’s soooo much science in the book! That’s certaiinly a hallmark of Penrose’s books but sometimes it goes on a bit too long. And there was a lot of math in this particular story which was beyond me. I skipped huge parts of the descriptions because they were technical and boring to me.
-I like Wexford and Charlotte, the Weasels, Cordelia and Kit, Mac, Tyler and Gtiffin. They are well developed characters.
-the plot was solid,the clues were good and there was a good plot twist to keep the reader engaged
- sometimes the author’s writing is rather florid although some is quite elegant. For instance ‘Life, she observed, ‘can be such a wondrous but contradictory force of nature, bringing both joys and sorrows within a heartbeat of each other.’ or ‘It’s stillness seemed to thrum with the crisscrossing currents of hidden passions’. And one of my favourites from Cordelia ‘But in times of stress, a favourite book is a comfort.’
I’m not sure if I will continue the series. I like it but the books are very expensive and I have grown impatient with the science heavy content. I’d like a more character driven story.
- I am heartily tired of hearing about Mac’s delicious ginger biscuits/cookies
- several instances of over used words and phrases continue to occur, such as miscreants, feathered a kiss,
- for people who love each other so passionately, we hear very little about their physical relationship. One wonders how it’s possible Charlotte isn’t pregnant yet.
- the Weasels seem to speak in flowery language sometimes (for example Peregrine talks about his father, saying ‘He had a wonderful laugh. It sort of wrapped around you like sun-warmed honey.’)
- there’s soooo much science in the book! That’s certaiinly a hallmark of Penrose’s books but sometimes it goes on a bit too long. And there was a lot of math in this particular story which was beyond me. I skipped huge parts of the descriptions because they were technical and boring to me.
-I like Wexford and Charlotte, the Weasels, Cordelia and Kit, Mac, Tyler and Gtiffin. They are well developed characters.
-the plot was solid,the clues were good and there was a good plot twist to keep the reader engaged
- sometimes the author’s writing is rather florid although some is quite elegant. For instance ‘Life, she observed, ‘can be such a wondrous but contradictory force of nature, bringing both joys and sorrows within a heartbeat of each other.’ or ‘It’s stillness seemed to thrum with the crisscrossing currents of hidden passions’. And one of my favourites from Cordelia ‘But in times of stress, a favourite book is a comfort.’
I’m not sure if I will continue the series. I like it but the books are very expensive and I have grown impatient with the science heavy content. I’d like a more character driven story.
October 26, 2024
Returning to the historical Regency Era world of science, mathematics, and murder, the latest installment has Charlotte and Wrexford tracking down the evidence that will hopefully exonerate a dear friend’s relation. Andrea Penrose has written a fine blend of historical backdrop that draws in the inventiveness and thinking of the times with a satisfying mystery and connection to heartwarming characters.
Murder at King’s Crossing is the eighth in a series that reads best in order for the character background and relationships’ history, but each book does present a standalone murder mystery.
In the latest, Regency era engineer, transportation innovations, and brilliant Calc is at the core of our detecting teams’ latest case. Cornelia and Kit’s wedding opens the book, but things soon turn to murder when Cornelia’s cousin is implicated and her dear childhood friend is the victim. Many would kill- and someone obviously has- to get their hands on his brilliant bridge design idea.
Like with many series, several books in, one can have quite the expansive cast of characters and side trails as a result. Murder at King’s Crossing is no exception- hence my advice to read in order. Peregrine is struggling off at Eton and finds a way to resolve his difficulties that stir up everyone, Charlotte is wondering as the wife of an earl if she’s going soft since she rarely gets out into the darker, poorer streets that she once roamed, and Wrexford is still coming to terms with where he left things with his deceased father and brother especially after coming across something he never knew about his father.
The mystery has them all racing to and fro and yes, there are some breathtaking moments of high danger as well as a few good twists. I did have my finger on a large bit of the solution, but that in no way took away from the pleasure of reading this one.
Another solid entry in a series that every historical mystery fan should try.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy 10.16.24.
Murder at King’s Crossing is the eighth in a series that reads best in order for the character background and relationships’ history, but each book does present a standalone murder mystery.
In the latest, Regency era engineer, transportation innovations, and brilliant Calc is at the core of our detecting teams’ latest case. Cornelia and Kit’s wedding opens the book, but things soon turn to murder when Cornelia’s cousin is implicated and her dear childhood friend is the victim. Many would kill- and someone obviously has- to get their hands on his brilliant bridge design idea.
Like with many series, several books in, one can have quite the expansive cast of characters and side trails as a result. Murder at King’s Crossing is no exception- hence my advice to read in order. Peregrine is struggling off at Eton and finds a way to resolve his difficulties that stir up everyone, Charlotte is wondering as the wife of an earl if she’s going soft since she rarely gets out into the darker, poorer streets that she once roamed, and Wrexford is still coming to terms with where he left things with his deceased father and brother especially after coming across something he never knew about his father.
The mystery has them all racing to and fro and yes, there are some breathtaking moments of high danger as well as a few good twists. I did have my finger on a large bit of the solution, but that in no way took away from the pleasure of reading this one.
Another solid entry in a series that every historical mystery fan should try.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy 10.16.24.
March 26, 2025
Another great addition to this wonderful and fun series! Next!
April 25, 2025
I was not really a fan of this book.
❌ There was no real romance between Charlotte and Westfield.
❌ There were too many philosophical dialogues that were meant to be deep, but came off as cliché and patronizing.
❌ There was a lot of drinking for no reason.
❌ The idea that young boys were allowed to participate in a dangerous murder investigation, and no one minded, was frustrating
❌ There was no real romance between Charlotte and Westfield.
❌ There were too many philosophical dialogues that were meant to be deep, but came off as cliché and patronizing.
❌ There was a lot of drinking for no reason.
❌ The idea that young boys were allowed to participate in a dangerous murder investigation, and no one minded, was frustrating
October 3, 2024
Murder at King's Crossing is the 8th book in Andrea Penrose's Regency historical mystery series Wrexford & Sloane. I've only read book 4, and I really enjoyed it. I have discovered that each mystery stands alone. However, I recommend reading them in order, as I feel I have missed quite a bit of character development. I have been collecting those I haven't yet read so I can enjoy the progression of the characters and their relationships.
Wrexford and Charlotte are at their country estate hosting the wedding of their dearest friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. The celebration is brought to a screeching halt when local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, and the only clue to his identity is an invitation to the wedding. Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend; he was a brilliant engineer who is rumored to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. He had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding. Both Jasper and Oliver were involved in the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society, a scientific group dedicated to making radical improvements in the speed and cost of transportation throughout Britain. Did someone want to steal Milton's design, and did Oliver have anything to do with his murder? Cordelia is determined to find out the truth, so Wrex and Charlotte, along with their wards the "Weasels", join in to solve the mystery. And what they discover shocks them...
This was a complicated, interesting mystery. I kept on changing my mind as to the identity of the murderer. There were red herrings galore, and the cast of suspects, and murder victims, kept on growing. I was greatly entertained. As with book 4, this one kept me on the edge of my seat, but it's the characters who make the story. Wrex, the Earl of Wrexford, is an analytical man who is also an experimental scientist who works with metals. He is married to Charlotte, formerly Lady Charlotte Sloane. Charlotte is the creator of satirical cartoons which she publishes under the pseudonym A.J. Quill. She often goes looking for stories disguised as a boy. The marriage of such different people would seem odd, but it works for them. Wrex has a reputation of being grumpy, but he's certainly not that way with his family. It's obvious he has a deep and abiding love for his wife and the Weasels. Two of the Weasels, Raven and Hawk, were formerly street urchins but are now Wrex's wards. The newest official Weasel is Falcon, who was not a street urchin; he was a friend of the boys, and when he was kicked out of Eton for a spectacular stink bomb prank, his guardian came to Wrex and Charlotte for help, and now Falcon, too, is their ward. Cordelia, a brilliant mathematician, just married Kit (Christopher), Wrex's best friend. They are great characters, but my favorites are Alison (Charlotte's great-aunt, the dowager Countess of Peake) and McClellan (called Mac, who was Charlotte's lady maid but kept the entire household running properly while making the best ginger biscuits ever). They both helped with investigations, along with Wrex's valet Tyler. Now here's a part of the story I had a bit of a problem with, causing me to put down the book for a while. Science and mathematics play a big role in this story; let's just say they are not my forte. My eyes roll to the back of my head at the discussion of math; I am a words person. The science was interesting. And bridges were prominently featured in the mystery; I learned a lot about bridges that I didn't know...and didn't WANT to know! I don't care about them. (I'm sure I'd care if I was on one with many defects, but still...). It is apparent that the author did her homework, and she provided an important history lesson. Though the math and technical issues weren't my thing, it's the character-driven story that I love, and the mystery was engaging. I'm eager to find out what mystery the Wrexford household gets sucked into next!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Wrexford and Charlotte are at their country estate hosting the wedding of their dearest friends, Christopher Sheffield and Lady Cordelia Mansfield. The celebration is brought to a screeching halt when local authorities arrive with news that a murdered man has been discovered at the bridge over King’s Crossing, and the only clue to his identity is an invitation to the wedding. Cordelia is horrified when the victim is identified as Jasper Milton, her childhood friend; he was a brilliant engineer who is rumored to have discovered a revolutionary technological innovation in bridge design. He had the invitation meant for her cousin Oliver, who never showed up for the wedding. Both Jasper and Oliver were involved in the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society, a scientific group dedicated to making radical improvements in the speed and cost of transportation throughout Britain. Did someone want to steal Milton's design, and did Oliver have anything to do with his murder? Cordelia is determined to find out the truth, so Wrex and Charlotte, along with their wards the "Weasels", join in to solve the mystery. And what they discover shocks them...
This was a complicated, interesting mystery. I kept on changing my mind as to the identity of the murderer. There were red herrings galore, and the cast of suspects, and murder victims, kept on growing. I was greatly entertained. As with book 4, this one kept me on the edge of my seat, but it's the characters who make the story. Wrex, the Earl of Wrexford, is an analytical man who is also an experimental scientist who works with metals. He is married to Charlotte, formerly Lady Charlotte Sloane. Charlotte is the creator of satirical cartoons which she publishes under the pseudonym A.J. Quill. She often goes looking for stories disguised as a boy. The marriage of such different people would seem odd, but it works for them. Wrex has a reputation of being grumpy, but he's certainly not that way with his family. It's obvious he has a deep and abiding love for his wife and the Weasels. Two of the Weasels, Raven and Hawk, were formerly street urchins but are now Wrex's wards. The newest official Weasel is Falcon, who was not a street urchin; he was a friend of the boys, and when he was kicked out of Eton for a spectacular stink bomb prank, his guardian came to Wrex and Charlotte for help, and now Falcon, too, is their ward. Cordelia, a brilliant mathematician, just married Kit (Christopher), Wrex's best friend. They are great characters, but my favorites are Alison (Charlotte's great-aunt, the dowager Countess of Peake) and McClellan (called Mac, who was Charlotte's lady maid but kept the entire household running properly while making the best ginger biscuits ever). They both helped with investigations, along with Wrex's valet Tyler. Now here's a part of the story I had a bit of a problem with, causing me to put down the book for a while. Science and mathematics play a big role in this story; let's just say they are not my forte. My eyes roll to the back of my head at the discussion of math; I am a words person. The science was interesting. And bridges were prominently featured in the mystery; I learned a lot about bridges that I didn't know...and didn't WANT to know! I don't care about them. (I'm sure I'd care if I was on one with many defects, but still...). It is apparent that the author did her homework, and she provided an important history lesson. Though the math and technical issues weren't my thing, it's the character-driven story that I love, and the mystery was engaging. I'm eager to find out what mystery the Wrexford household gets sucked into next!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
March 24, 2025
I think this was my least favorite volume of the series. I think it was much of the same, without having any new things to develop - other than a cryptic and very brief note about Wrex's father. The mystery itself was interesting enough, but nothing to keep me glued to the pages. Let's see what the next volume brings... That's why I'm always reticent to delve into long series, I'm always afraid to reach a point where things lose their shine, either because I become tired or because the authors don't know when to stop.
I'm not saying that's the case yet here, but it's something to keep in mind.
I'm not saying that's the case yet here, but it's something to keep in mind.
August 19, 2024
What can I say? I love the Wrexford and Sloane mystery series! It's set in Regency London and is one of those historical series with an improbable cast of characters that are delightful to encounter in fiction: A wealthy Lord with a reputation as a reprobate, who is an experimental scientist on the side; his wife who is London's most famous political cartoonist publishing under a male alias; their two wards, former street urchins, who help them in their investigation; a formidable aunt; and a staff with some rather unusual talents.
In this volume, a wedding Wrexford and Sloane are hosting is interrupted with news of a murder. At first, the identity of the murdered man is unclear, but he appears to be closely connected to this social circle. In fact, he turns out to be a childhood friend of both Wrexford and the bride, and the invitation in his pocket is addressed to the bride's cousin. So, once again, the Wrexford-Sloane family and friends are combining their skills to discover both the murderer and the reasons underlying the murder. There's also a group of radical engineers hoping to use their skills to improve public transportation with the goal of giving working class people freer movement and more employment opportunities.
As I said at the outset, I love this series. Note that given how complex the cast of characters in Murder at King's Crossing is, this title doesn't really work as a stand-alone. You do, though (trust me) want to hang out with these folks, so read at least one earlier volume before you jump to this title. I'm guessing that, however, you may find yourself wanting to read the entire series in order one you've finished your first volume. There's great fun seeing how this class-crossing, multi-aged cohort builds themselves into a family.
I received a free electronic review copy of this volume from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
In this volume, a wedding Wrexford and Sloane are hosting is interrupted with news of a murder. At first, the identity of the murdered man is unclear, but he appears to be closely connected to this social circle. In fact, he turns out to be a childhood friend of both Wrexford and the bride, and the invitation in his pocket is addressed to the bride's cousin. So, once again, the Wrexford-Sloane family and friends are combining their skills to discover both the murderer and the reasons underlying the murder. There's also a group of radical engineers hoping to use their skills to improve public transportation with the goal of giving working class people freer movement and more employment opportunities.
As I said at the outset, I love this series. Note that given how complex the cast of characters in Murder at King's Crossing is, this title doesn't really work as a stand-alone. You do, though (trust me) want to hang out with these folks, so read at least one earlier volume before you jump to this title. I'm guessing that, however, you may find yourself wanting to read the entire series in order one you've finished your first volume. There's great fun seeing how this class-crossing, multi-aged cohort builds themselves into a family.
I received a free electronic review copy of this volume from the publisher via Edelweiss; the opinions are my own.
September 23, 2024
Marriage and mystery!
Once again Charlotte, Countess of Wrexford and the Earl, along with the entertaining weasels and friends are caught up in murder and mysteries. Not only that but Peregrine is expelled from Eton!
The brilliant Lady Cordelia Mansfield and Wrexford’s friend Christopher Sheffield are to be married. A surprise guest is going to attend but he doesn’t make it. He’s murdered. For sometime the body is believed to be Cordelia’s cousin Oliver. It isn’t. It’s Cordelia’s brilliant engineer friend, Jasper Milton.
Oliver has disappeared which is suspicious. Is Oliver the murderer?
However deeper concerns come to the fore.
Had Jasper discovered the mathematical secret to building bridges with longer spans?
How might this affect the situation in Europe with Napoleon sequestered on Elba and the French dissatisfied once again with their Bourbon ruler?
Then there’s the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society both men belonged to. A scientific group concerned with the radical improvement of transport and speed.
We learn more about Wrexham, his warmth towards the weasels, and his and Charlotte’s ideas about family.
Another satisfying, suspenseful read featuring one of my favorite group of characters.
A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Once again Charlotte, Countess of Wrexford and the Earl, along with the entertaining weasels and friends are caught up in murder and mysteries. Not only that but Peregrine is expelled from Eton!
The brilliant Lady Cordelia Mansfield and Wrexford’s friend Christopher Sheffield are to be married. A surprise guest is going to attend but he doesn’t make it. He’s murdered. For sometime the body is believed to be Cordelia’s cousin Oliver. It isn’t. It’s Cordelia’s brilliant engineer friend, Jasper Milton.
Oliver has disappeared which is suspicious. Is Oliver the murderer?
However deeper concerns come to the fore.
Had Jasper discovered the mathematical secret to building bridges with longer spans?
How might this affect the situation in Europe with Napoleon sequestered on Elba and the French dissatisfied once again with their Bourbon ruler?
Then there’s the Revolutions-Per-Minute Society both men belonged to. A scientific group concerned with the radical improvement of transport and speed.
We learn more about Wrexham, his warmth towards the weasels, and his and Charlotte’s ideas about family.
Another satisfying, suspenseful read featuring one of my favorite group of characters.
A Kensington ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
August 11, 2024
THE GOOD:
Fascinating Author’s Note underscoring just how much research went into crafting the story.
Full-fledged characters with strong back stories.
THE BAD:
The multiple parties to the story can be confusing at first.
Sentence structures can be a bit wordy and verbose.
OVERVIEW:
The tale is what I would term a Scooby Doo mystery: Large-ish cast of characters, many facts and clues that appear puzzling, a monologue by the bad guy near the end, and a conclusionary recap by the main players at the end.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended to historical mystery fans.
Fascinating Author’s Note underscoring just how much research went into crafting the story.
Full-fledged characters with strong back stories.
THE BAD:
The multiple parties to the story can be confusing at first.
Sentence structures can be a bit wordy and verbose.
OVERVIEW:
The tale is what I would term a Scooby Doo mystery: Large-ish cast of characters, many facts and clues that appear puzzling, a monologue by the bad guy near the end, and a conclusionary recap by the main players at the end.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended to historical mystery fans.
December 18, 2024
I can’t anymore with the ginger biscuits….oi
January 31, 2025
Murder at King's Crossing is the eighth book of Andrea Penrose's highly entertaining Wrexford & Sloane series. In this installment, we join Wrexford and Charlotte, as they celebrate the wedding of their close friends
Sheffield and Lady Cordelia. Unfortunately, the festivities don't go as planned, and they are contacted by the local authorities who have found a body at a nearby bridge. They are unsure of who the victim is, but in his
possession is an invitation to the nuptials. That is where our mystery begins.
This murder mystery was clever and filled with plenty of twists. I loved the interesting discussions about transportation
throughout Britain. The author weaves historical facts and fun nuggets of information into the stories seamlessly. I often feel as if I've learned something of value when reading these books.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with
a touch of romance, found family
and great characters, then this is the series for you. While each book contains its own mystery, there are running storylines throughout and continuing relationships. I always look forward to a new book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Sheffield and Lady Cordelia. Unfortunately, the festivities don't go as planned, and they are contacted by the local authorities who have found a body at a nearby bridge. They are unsure of who the victim is, but in his
possession is an invitation to the nuptials. That is where our mystery begins.
This murder mystery was clever and filled with plenty of twists. I loved the interesting discussions about transportation
throughout Britain. The author weaves historical facts and fun nuggets of information into the stories seamlessly. I often feel as if I've learned something of value when reading these books.
If you enjoy historical mysteries with
a touch of romance, found family
and great characters, then this is the series for you. While each book contains its own mystery, there are running storylines throughout and continuing relationships. I always look forward to a new book in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 28, 2024
MURDER AT KING’S CROSSING, the eighth Wrexford and Sloan novel, gives historical mystery readers something to celebrate. This terrific series keeps delivering atmospheric, immersive, and tantalizing historical mysteries. Wrex and Charlotte, scientist and artist, are an inspired investigative duo. Once again, Andrea Penrose—without ignoring the glitter of her Regency era setting—delves into deeper matters. Penrose crafts a mystery that spotlights the era’s social challenges and dazzling technological advances—this time, looking at the intersection of engineering, mathematics, and transportation. It was a delight to encounter two real-life females from the worlds of engineering and math in cameo roles—rare nineteenth-century birds indeed. As always, the adoptive family and friends of the main characters form a delightful supporting cast. The plot’s twists and turns keep you guessing, and I found the Author’s Note at the end fascinating.
January 6, 2025
I'm not entirely sure why I keep reading this series. The best part of the books is the weaving in of some historical facts and events into the larger mystery (which is interesting), but Penrose is an author firmly in the tell the reader rather than show me school. Dialog is stilted and repetitive, rarely sounds natural, and characters spend large chunks of time providing exposition that feels very ham-handed. In the end, I know the characters and what to expect--the books are akin to a fast food lunch. Something to consume quickly with little effort, the meal scratches an itch, but if you stop to try to savor you realize it isn't particularly good.
November 3, 2024
A little too technical to be truly interesting, skimmed through to just get the main storyline of the family. Eh. 3stars.
February 7, 2025
4 or 4.5 stars (still debating; also, I reserve 5 stars for books that are really amazing, or that I return to over and over.) Another excellent, complex mystery featuring Wrexford, Charlotte, the Weasels, and their friends. I appreciate the ensemble cast, though the Wrex and Charlotte are clearly the main characters. It's unusual in a mystery to have so much of the detecting and figuring things out be done by a group, rather than a single or perhaps duo detective, possibly aided by minions/subordinates. Here, not only are the recurring secondary characters part of the investigative team, but we get to see their inner thoughts at times. Full review to come.
October 1, 2024
I've come to love Andrea Penrose's historical mystery series, Wrexford & Sloane set in Regency England. Part of the delight of these books is that they highlight the scientific and engineering advances which were taking place at this time of rapid change.
Who knew that the combination of a wedding, a murder and advanced engineering for bridges could combine to make such an interesting mystery.
My only problem now is waiting until she pens the next one.
Who knew that the combination of a wedding, a murder and advanced engineering for bridges could combine to make such an interesting mystery.
My only problem now is waiting until she pens the next one.
November 26, 2025
Another wonderful installment
March 11, 2025
Fun to read. I liked the mystery and as always the Weasels (now three of them) and Harper the dog are my favourite characters.
December 20, 2025
it took me a while to get through this book because i picked it up at the library without realizing it was the 8th book in a mystery series... i loved the characters but i really wish i had read the previous books to know their back stories. with all that being said, i loved the plot and was genuinely surprised by the ending
November 22, 2024
Being real here... it was OK. I wish Ms. Penrose would develop her story around these characters rather than making the history the Protagonist. I love these characters and they play only bit parts that serve the research... and it's boring! So boring! We got it already... bridges and roads... they're important. After the initial consideration of this historical epiphany, it just got so redundant and made for a very boring (did I say that already?) read. I may be almost done with this series. More Wrex, Charlotte, Weasels, and cast please!! Fewer bridges (for the love).
January 9, 2025
This was SO worth th 4+ month wait for the audiobook!!
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed being in this world the author has created and how much I love these characters, especially the weasels [we do find out why Wrexford identifies so easily with the weasels and their shenanigans, and that was really interesting] and all they get up to in each book - it was a perfect time as well [my life is chaotic and other people's chaos makes mine seem less...chaotic. LOL] to have a visit with my "friends".
I will admit that this one was a harder read for me; there is a lot of math and science and I did get lost several times, but overall, this was an excellent read, [with a very interesting, detailed note from the author at the end], with a fantastic reveal [one I should have figured out, but it was elusive until Charlotte figured it out and then I just rolled my eyes and smacked my forehead. *eyeroll*] and overall mystery. Several former characters make a reappearance which was fun, and I have found that I absolutely need Mac to come and make me some ginger biscuits [because mine would never, ever, taste as good as hers! LOL]. I also learned a lot which was a cool cherry on top.
I am really looking forward to book 9 [because that ending!!] and all that may [or may not be -you never know] revealed!!
I highly recommend this excellent series!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Andrea Penrose, and Kensington Publishing/Kensington for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I had forgotten how much I enjoyed being in this world the author has created and how much I love these characters, especially the weasels [we do find out why Wrexford identifies so easily with the weasels and their shenanigans, and that was really interesting] and all they get up to in each book - it was a perfect time as well [my life is chaotic and other people's chaos makes mine seem less...chaotic. LOL] to have a visit with my "friends".
I will admit that this one was a harder read for me; there is a lot of math and science and I did get lost several times, but overall, this was an excellent read, [with a very interesting, detailed note from the author at the end], with a fantastic reveal [one I should have figured out, but it was elusive until Charlotte figured it out and then I just rolled my eyes and smacked my forehead. *eyeroll*] and overall mystery. Several former characters make a reappearance which was fun, and I have found that I absolutely need Mac to come and make me some ginger biscuits [because mine would never, ever, taste as good as hers! LOL]. I also learned a lot which was a cool cherry on top.
I am really looking forward to book 9 [because that ending!!] and all that may [or may not be -you never know] revealed!!
I highly recommend this excellent series!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Andrea Penrose, and Kensington Publishing/Kensington for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2024
5 stars
A return of the family of sleuths. We have the earl: Wexford, Charlotte his wife and is a secret cartoonist, the weasels: their adopted boys, their friends Cordelia and her husband Sheffield, the doctor, the policeman and then there's the victim : a friend of Cordelia and her cousin Oliver is a possible suspect and missing. There was a lot of action and it was reasonably easy to keep the threads in play. I suppose I miss the romance of Wexford and Charlotte but then Raven, Hawk and Falcon are being more fleshed out. Some good historical content on Bridge building.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
A return of the family of sleuths. We have the earl: Wexford, Charlotte his wife and is a secret cartoonist, the weasels: their adopted boys, their friends Cordelia and her husband Sheffield, the doctor, the policeman and then there's the victim : a friend of Cordelia and her cousin Oliver is a possible suspect and missing. There was a lot of action and it was reasonably easy to keep the threads in play. I suppose I miss the romance of Wexford and Charlotte but then Raven, Hawk and Falcon are being more fleshed out. Some good historical content on Bridge building.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 30, 2025
Usually I really enjoy this series but this one seemed like it was really drawn out.
January 21, 2025
This is a series that I hadn’t thought would keep my attention as it has. I don’t know how many ways both the Earl of Wrexford & his wife (Charlotte Sloane) can embroil themselves in another murder but it keeps happening. While I do love mysteries plus tie in the Regency/Victorian era & I’m mostly wanting to read it. To quote “their unorthodox family” just keeps getting a bit bigger with each book. The mystery in this one is a bit more convoluted as nothing seemed to be what it was.
September 3, 2025
Read as a stand alone - historical mystery - interesting characters based around the murdered victims - story itself was well written but a lot of "filler" was included leading to the plot .
October 11, 2024
3.75 stars rounded up
I usually didn't give too much attention to the science talk in this series -- but this one, I admit, I was quite interested. I never really thought of the science behind BRIDGES. I guess I take bridges for granted. Like, I see them anywhere, and I never think that there's so much of mathemathical equation behind it; from the distribution of mass or even how the construction is made against the test of weights or winds or such.
The victim in this book has slight connection to Cordelia (he used to be her good friend). It also involved Cordelia's cousin. Of course Wrexford, Charlotte, Sheffield, the Weasels (Falcon is now full pledged member, by the way), and the rest of the Council of War get involved in solving a murder. There's a slight continued "mystery" regarding Wrexford's father () which I think will be carried over to the next book. I would like to be there when Wrexford find out more, of course.
I usually didn't give too much attention to the science talk in this series -- but this one, I admit, I was quite interested. I never really thought of the science behind BRIDGES. I guess I take bridges for granted. Like, I see them anywhere, and I never think that there's so much of mathemathical equation behind it; from the distribution of mass or even how the construction is made against the test of weights or winds or such.
The victim in this book has slight connection to Cordelia (he used to be her good friend). It also involved Cordelia's cousin. Of course Wrexford, Charlotte, Sheffield, the Weasels (Falcon is now full pledged member, by the way), and the rest of the Council of War get involved in solving a murder. There's a slight continued "mystery" regarding Wrexford's father () which I think will be carried over to the next book. I would like to be there when Wrexford find out more, of course.
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