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Lady Montfort Mystery #1
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman
Lady Montfort has been planning her annual summer costume ball for months, and with scrupulous care. Pulling together the food, flowers and a thousand other details for one of the most significant social occasions of the year is her happily accepted responsibility. But when her husband’s degenerate nephew is found murdered, it's more than the ball that is ruined. In fact, Lady Montfort fears that the official police enquiry, driven by petty snobbery and class prejudice, is pointing towards her son as a potential suspect.
Taking matters into her own hands, the rather over-imaginative countess enlists the help of her pragmatic housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, to investigate the case, track down the women that vanished the night of the murder, and clear her son’s name. As the two women search for a runaway housemaid and a headstrong young woman, they unearth the hidden lives of Lady Montfort’s close friends, servants and family and discover the identity of a murderer hiding in plain sight.
In this enchanting debut sure to appeal to fans of Downton Abbey, Tessa Arlen draws readers into a world exclusively enjoyed by the rich, privileged classes and suffered by the men and women who serve them. Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman is an elegant mystery filled with intriguing characters and fascinating descriptions of Edwardian life—a superb treat for those who love British novels.
Taking matters into her own hands, the rather over-imaginative countess enlists the help of her pragmatic housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, to investigate the case, track down the women that vanished the night of the murder, and clear her son’s name. As the two women search for a runaway housemaid and a headstrong young woman, they unearth the hidden lives of Lady Montfort’s close friends, servants and family and discover the identity of a murderer hiding in plain sight.
In this enchanting debut sure to appeal to fans of Downton Abbey, Tessa Arlen draws readers into a world exclusively enjoyed by the rich, privileged classes and suffered by the men and women who serve them. Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman is an elegant mystery filled with intriguing characters and fascinating descriptions of Edwardian life—a superb treat for those who love British novels.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2015
201 people are currently reading
3133 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Arlen
10 books530 followersTESSA ARLEN is the USA TODAY bestselling author of IN ROYAL SERVICE TO THE QUEEN, a novel of Marion Crawford the first royal servant to kiss and tell. Tessa writes historical fiction when she is not gardening.
For more information about Tessa and her books please visit her website. http://www.tessaarlen.com/
For more information about Tessa and her books please visit her website. http://www.tessaarlen.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 267 reviews
July 26, 2015
The early 1900s in England before the Great War have always been intriguing to me, so it was easy to choose this era for DEATH OF A DISHONORABLE GENTLEMAN (the first in the Lady Montfort mystery series).
Life for the privileged few in the 1900s was idyllic thanks to their servants, their money and the rigidity of the class system, whereas the ‘have-nots’ had a much grimmer time of it. My two protagonists are from opposite ends of the class system, and struggle with issues in context with their time and place in history: a Countess, from one of the oldest families in England, and her housekeeper, raised in a parish orphanage, work together to discover the identity of a murderer, each motivated by different reasons, and who build a sort of friendship in the process.
The Edwardian era for the well-to-do was a time of tremendous excess. Their houses were gorgeous, the food they ate exquisite, their clothing perfectly beautiful and their personal indulgences often quite extreme. all the little unpleasant things in life were neatly swept under the carpet, so nothing might ruffle the perfection of their existence. Until one of them is murdered at a country house party of one of the most respected peers in the land, and a police inquiry firmly fastens on several of the guests as possible suspects.
I hope you enjoy this light-hearted, elegant tale of what happens when members of an elite group are nudged out of their complacency!
Life for the privileged few in the 1900s was idyllic thanks to their servants, their money and the rigidity of the class system, whereas the ‘have-nots’ had a much grimmer time of it. My two protagonists are from opposite ends of the class system, and struggle with issues in context with their time and place in history: a Countess, from one of the oldest families in England, and her housekeeper, raised in a parish orphanage, work together to discover the identity of a murderer, each motivated by different reasons, and who build a sort of friendship in the process.
The Edwardian era for the well-to-do was a time of tremendous excess. Their houses were gorgeous, the food they ate exquisite, their clothing perfectly beautiful and their personal indulgences often quite extreme. all the little unpleasant things in life were neatly swept under the carpet, so nothing might ruffle the perfection of their existence. Until one of them is murdered at a country house party of one of the most respected peers in the land, and a police inquiry firmly fastens on several of the guests as possible suspects.
I hope you enjoy this light-hearted, elegant tale of what happens when members of an elite group are nudged out of their complacency!
July 3, 2022
Interesting start to this series. Obviously the class order is changing. People have their places but when that’s disturbed things aren’t ever the same again. The gruesome murder of Lord Montfort’s ward during a house party leads to all sorts of ructions. Lady Montfort and her housekeeper Mrs Jackson have their hands full and their sense of what should be overturned as they put aside the expected behavior between upstairs and downstairs to throw light onto what’s happened and why.
May 25, 2022
For those who are in the doldrums after last week’s final episode of season five of Downton Abbey and in need of another English country manor house upstairs/downstairs story, Tessa Arlen’s debut novel could fit the bill. Set at the fictional estate of Iyntwood in the summer of 1913, Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman is a murder mystery in the grand tradition of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers and P.G. Wodehouse.
I was deeply impressed with Arlen’s debut mystery. Her choice to have two women from different social strata team up to investigate the murder was very clever; defining the social hierarchy of the era and their personalities very keenly. Lady Montfort, the mistress of Iyntwood and her housekeeper Mrs. Jackson are a perfect combination of creativity and logic similar to P.G. Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster, master & servant duo. While Wodehouse’s famous mystery series is at times more comedy than mystery, I found Arlen’s take on the traditional English country house mystery much more of a serious social commentary.
Starting off with a gruesome murder Teddy Mallory, the gamester and miscreant nephew of Lord and Lady Montfort, the clues are very pale and you must pay attention closely. Interestingly as the story unfolds, the un-lamented Teddy is the real star of the show because of his twisted back story which we learn about over the course of the novel. Despite the fact that the most intriguing character in the book is dead from the get-go, what unravels is a cleverly crafted, entrancing mystery filled with fascinating characters, beautiful descriptions of aristocratic life in England before WWI and a social commentary that will haunt you. Brava to Arlen for a stunning debut novel.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
I was deeply impressed with Arlen’s debut mystery. Her choice to have two women from different social strata team up to investigate the murder was very clever; defining the social hierarchy of the era and their personalities very keenly. Lady Montfort, the mistress of Iyntwood and her housekeeper Mrs. Jackson are a perfect combination of creativity and logic similar to P.G. Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster, master & servant duo. While Wodehouse’s famous mystery series is at times more comedy than mystery, I found Arlen’s take on the traditional English country house mystery much more of a serious social commentary.
Starting off with a gruesome murder Teddy Mallory, the gamester and miscreant nephew of Lord and Lady Montfort, the clues are very pale and you must pay attention closely. Interestingly as the story unfolds, the un-lamented Teddy is the real star of the show because of his twisted back story which we learn about over the course of the novel. Despite the fact that the most intriguing character in the book is dead from the get-go, what unravels is a cleverly crafted, entrancing mystery filled with fascinating characters, beautiful descriptions of aristocratic life in England before WWI and a social commentary that will haunt you. Brava to Arlen for a stunning debut novel.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
February 5, 2015
What a delight this book was! It's Downton Abbey meets Miss Marple, for lack of a better comparison. Clearly, Lady Montfort is no Miss Marple. However, the tone of the book and the mystery, plus the partnership of Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson, hearkens to Miss Marple's methods of solving a mystery, or perhaps Sherlock and Dr. Watson's. I like historical mysteries like this, where everyone is a suspect, and the reader is kept guessing until the end. I really did not suspect who the murderer turned out to be at all.
Mystery aside, I was impressed with the author's authenticity for the time period and the ins and outs of the upstairs/downstairs culture. While it was refreshing that Lady Montfort would co-conspire with her housekeeper to solve the murder, the discomfort Mrs. Jackson first felt from the overstepping of the boundary between servant and mistress was palpable. Fortunately, discomfort is soon swept aside for some top notch sleuthing, especially on Mrs. Jackson's part, and we have the makings of a first class mystery solving duo. I wonder what mystery they will solve in the next book? I can't wait to find out.
If you're a fan of mysteries along the lines of Agatha Christie, or perhaps P.D. James, and also a fan of Downton Abbey, you will especially like this book. Truly a great debut novel. I look forward to the continuation of the series.
Mystery aside, I was impressed with the author's authenticity for the time period and the ins and outs of the upstairs/downstairs culture. While it was refreshing that Lady Montfort would co-conspire with her housekeeper to solve the murder, the discomfort Mrs. Jackson first felt from the overstepping of the boundary between servant and mistress was palpable. Fortunately, discomfort is soon swept aside for some top notch sleuthing, especially on Mrs. Jackson's part, and we have the makings of a first class mystery solving duo. I wonder what mystery they will solve in the next book? I can't wait to find out.
If you're a fan of mysteries along the lines of Agatha Christie, or perhaps P.D. James, and also a fan of Downton Abbey, you will especially like this book. Truly a great debut novel. I look forward to the continuation of the series.
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August 25, 2014Tessa Arlen on Blog Tour with HF Virtual Book Tours, January 5-February 6, 2015!
http://hfvirtualbooktours.com/deathof...
http://hfvirtualbooktours.com/deathof...
July 9, 2022
After reading Tessa Arlen’s newer Poppy Redfern books, I decided to dig into her first series. It’s a bit of a throwback, in a good way, but also refreshing. Here’s why…
1️⃣ The pace
I found the slower pace of this story enjoyable. This isn’t a quick romp with sleuths racing around to track clues. The two main characters initiate a methodical investigation, quietly interviewing secondary characters as they also carry out their expected daily tasks. I’m used to action, but I didn’t miss it here because that wouldn’t have been believable for a countess and a housekeeper of a grand home during a house party.
2️⃣ The roles/relationship between main characters
The main characters are Lady Montfort, a countess, and the housekeeper of her country estate home. The countess asks the housekeeper to help her with the investigation and while a few of the formalities are removed from their interactions while sharing info, they retain their positions. There is no collapse of the social structure. It would have been too modern for them to have become girlfriends sneaking about together.
3️⃣ The quiet humor
Tessa Arlen is funny! There are humorous lines thrown in periodically that are charming. A horse distrusting an old wheelbarrow. Lady Montfort thinking she’d prefer to be in either place when her mother-in-law asks “India or China” when serving tea. The moments are small and sweet.
4️⃣ The marriage
Lord and Lady Montfort love each other. They are affectionate and kind. We get both of their points of view and so we see this from both of them. They acknowledge that some aristocratic marriages aren’t this way (few seem to be in historical fiction). It’s really quiet lovely. Also, they’re not kids…they are old enough to have adult children.
The only weak point was the resolution that felt a little out of left field, but this is the author’s very first book and all the positives dramatically overshadow this.
1️⃣ The pace
I found the slower pace of this story enjoyable. This isn’t a quick romp with sleuths racing around to track clues. The two main characters initiate a methodical investigation, quietly interviewing secondary characters as they also carry out their expected daily tasks. I’m used to action, but I didn’t miss it here because that wouldn’t have been believable for a countess and a housekeeper of a grand home during a house party.
2️⃣ The roles/relationship between main characters
The main characters are Lady Montfort, a countess, and the housekeeper of her country estate home. The countess asks the housekeeper to help her with the investigation and while a few of the formalities are removed from their interactions while sharing info, they retain their positions. There is no collapse of the social structure. It would have been too modern for them to have become girlfriends sneaking about together.
3️⃣ The quiet humor
Tessa Arlen is funny! There are humorous lines thrown in periodically that are charming. A horse distrusting an old wheelbarrow. Lady Montfort thinking she’d prefer to be in either place when her mother-in-law asks “India or China” when serving tea. The moments are small and sweet.
4️⃣ The marriage
Lord and Lady Montfort love each other. They are affectionate and kind. We get both of their points of view and so we see this from both of them. They acknowledge that some aristocratic marriages aren’t this way (few seem to be in historical fiction). It’s really quiet lovely. Also, they’re not kids…they are old enough to have adult children.
The only weak point was the resolution that felt a little out of left field, but this is the author’s very first book and all the positives dramatically overshadow this.
January 5, 2015
Combining the pleasurable dramas of the English country house novel and the richly detailed, tense atmosphere of a historical mystery, this involving debut features the unusual detective partnership between an aristocrat and her housekeeper. That said, the Countess of Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are not exactly BFFs. Tessa Arlen is too attuned to early 20th-century class distinctions to let that happen. When asked by her desperate employer to observe conversations below stairs at Iyntwood and report back, Mrs. Jackson is appalled, but her allegiance to the family she serves prods her along.
The murder victim of the title is Teddy Mallory, the spoiled only son of Lord Montfort’s sister. While everyone is horrified by the circumstances of his death (he’s found hanging from a gamekeeper’s gibbet the morning after the Montforts’ renowned summer party), he wasn’t well-liked. The mostly-unlamented Teddy has a long history of disreputable behavior, some of which is yet undiscovered. Even more curiously, two women, one a houseguest and one a new maid named Violet, vanished the same day.
The arrival of an aggressive Scotland Yard investigator with no respect for his betters throws the household into even more disarray. Because the Montforts’ heir, Harry, was seen having a vicious argument with Teddy, he appears guilty at first. However, his mother, Clementine, believes in his innocence and enlists Mrs Jackson to keep her ears to the ground.
Among the houseguests are a dizzying bevy of socialites, introduced for the most part all at once. The characters have the advantage here, since they know who’s who better than readers will, but over the course of the novel, their distinctive personalities sort themselves out.
The shifting rapport between the central pair of allies – an unconventional yet privileged noblewoman and an upper servant whose brusque efficiency and “hierarchical cast of mind” belies her relative youth – is one of the novel’s high points. Arlen has a firm grasp on period mindsets and, as expected of any novel set in England in 1913, she inserts relevant details on the changes sweeping the country, such as women’s suffrage – a movement many female characters resist.
The lovely descriptions of the rolling green countryside around Iyntwood place us right into that glorious setting. Through its master’s thoughtful reflections on his “still-feudal way of life” while on a morning’s ride around his estates, we also get a solid sense of his family’s long-entrenched relationship with the land and his protectiveness toward his servants – even though, he admits, he “wasn’t terribly sure what Violet looked like.” The book is full of these small but telling details.
In this not-quite cozy mystery, the resolution to the crime unfolds in a logical manner. Sufficient clues are planted to let readers guess the culprit a bit early. Since they make an impressive and successful team, I hope Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson will join their wits again in future volumes – in particular, it should be interesting to see how much the characters relax their social attitudes as World War I gets underway.
Thanks to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher for a NetGalley copy. This review first appeared at Reading the Past.
The murder victim of the title is Teddy Mallory, the spoiled only son of Lord Montfort’s sister. While everyone is horrified by the circumstances of his death (he’s found hanging from a gamekeeper’s gibbet the morning after the Montforts’ renowned summer party), he wasn’t well-liked. The mostly-unlamented Teddy has a long history of disreputable behavior, some of which is yet undiscovered. Even more curiously, two women, one a houseguest and one a new maid named Violet, vanished the same day.
The arrival of an aggressive Scotland Yard investigator with no respect for his betters throws the household into even more disarray. Because the Montforts’ heir, Harry, was seen having a vicious argument with Teddy, he appears guilty at first. However, his mother, Clementine, believes in his innocence and enlists Mrs Jackson to keep her ears to the ground.
Among the houseguests are a dizzying bevy of socialites, introduced for the most part all at once. The characters have the advantage here, since they know who’s who better than readers will, but over the course of the novel, their distinctive personalities sort themselves out.
The shifting rapport between the central pair of allies – an unconventional yet privileged noblewoman and an upper servant whose brusque efficiency and “hierarchical cast of mind” belies her relative youth – is one of the novel’s high points. Arlen has a firm grasp on period mindsets and, as expected of any novel set in England in 1913, she inserts relevant details on the changes sweeping the country, such as women’s suffrage – a movement many female characters resist.
The lovely descriptions of the rolling green countryside around Iyntwood place us right into that glorious setting. Through its master’s thoughtful reflections on his “still-feudal way of life” while on a morning’s ride around his estates, we also get a solid sense of his family’s long-entrenched relationship with the land and his protectiveness toward his servants – even though, he admits, he “wasn’t terribly sure what Violet looked like.” The book is full of these small but telling details.
In this not-quite cozy mystery, the resolution to the crime unfolds in a logical manner. Sufficient clues are planted to let readers guess the culprit a bit early. Since they make an impressive and successful team, I hope Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson will join their wits again in future volumes – in particular, it should be interesting to see how much the characters relax their social attitudes as World War I gets underway.
Thanks to Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours and the publisher for a NetGalley copy. This review first appeared at Reading the Past.
May 26, 2015
The introductory lines of Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman immediately captivated me and made me feel as though I had been transported to the Edwardian era. In a story that feels something like Downton Abbey meets dinner murder mystery, the novel follows the upstairs society and the downstairs staff as everyone wonders if a murderer is among them.
Well, they sort of wonder. The dishonorable gentleman is so little mourned, even by his family members, that I felt little inspired to care what had happened to him or why anyone had done it. A page was taken from Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express in that pretty much everyone had a reason to want to get rid of the guy, and those who didn't simply weren't much concerned about it. The extended house party went on with guests playing croquet and enjoying elaborate meals between police interviews.
Though historical research was evident and some of the descriptive language was very well done, I couldn't find a character - dead or alive - that I particularly cared for. However, those who are hungry for more novels of this era will enjoy this author's efforts to bring a little bit of mystery into a bygone and exciting time.
Well, they sort of wonder. The dishonorable gentleman is so little mourned, even by his family members, that I felt little inspired to care what had happened to him or why anyone had done it. A page was taken from Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express in that pretty much everyone had a reason to want to get rid of the guy, and those who didn't simply weren't much concerned about it. The extended house party went on with guests playing croquet and enjoying elaborate meals between police interviews.
Though historical research was evident and some of the descriptive language was very well done, I couldn't find a character - dead or alive - that I particularly cared for. However, those who are hungry for more novels of this era will enjoy this author's efforts to bring a little bit of mystery into a bygone and exciting time.
January 24, 2015
A joy to read such a well constructed mystery. Arlen seems to have found her forte in the historical mystery genre.
Truly a delightful mystery set in early 1900's England, prior to The Great War. The myriad of twists will keep your attention until the end. Stellar writing with wonderful detail.
Arlen certainly performed due diligence in research, plenty of references scattered throughout the narrative regarding popular literature and authors of the time, suffragettes King Edward's consorts, Ballet Russes, class division and much more. The cultural and historical innuendo adds dimension. The reader will feel submerged in the Edwardian era.
The stodgy and stuffy privileged characters are colorful and full of secrets. Each character adding their own flavor to the already rich narrative. Clementine and Jackson merge their imagination and intellect to create a marvelous sleuthing duo. Class separates them, team work unites them, sharing a keen sense of people, these two ladies are a sheer pleasure. Arlen deftly and skillfully inserts dry sarcastic humor, and you'll find yourself chuckling more than once.
A well crafted elegant mystery among the social gentry, enthralling, you'll be on your toes until the very end. Notable debut from Arlen, I anxiously await her next installment in this sophisticated series. Mystery lovers take note, you'll want to add to your TBR.
Truly a delightful mystery set in early 1900's England, prior to The Great War. The myriad of twists will keep your attention until the end. Stellar writing with wonderful detail.
Arlen certainly performed due diligence in research, plenty of references scattered throughout the narrative regarding popular literature and authors of the time, suffragettes King Edward's consorts, Ballet Russes, class division and much more. The cultural and historical innuendo adds dimension. The reader will feel submerged in the Edwardian era.
The stodgy and stuffy privileged characters are colorful and full of secrets. Each character adding their own flavor to the already rich narrative. Clementine and Jackson merge their imagination and intellect to create a marvelous sleuthing duo. Class separates them, team work unites them, sharing a keen sense of people, these two ladies are a sheer pleasure. Arlen deftly and skillfully inserts dry sarcastic humor, and you'll find yourself chuckling more than once.
A well crafted elegant mystery among the social gentry, enthralling, you'll be on your toes until the very end. Notable debut from Arlen, I anxiously await her next installment in this sophisticated series. Mystery lovers take note, you'll want to add to your TBR.
October 17, 2014
It was a perfect example of being in the right place at the right time - I was privileged to get my hands on an advance reading copy of this fabulous book. I was looking forward to a two day journey on one of Amtrak's long distance western trains and I wanted a good read to keep me company. "Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman" was the perfect companion on my journey. Tessa Arlen has such an amazing gift of writing that brings her reader right into the settings. I remember still almost being able to smell the wet grass and saddle leather of the sporting gentleman's ride in the early morning in the English countryside. She made the cool moisture of the morning on the country estate real. Her characters, and there were many, were alive, each unique, each lovable, each hateful, each devious in his or her own way. And all through the book, I had no idea really "who done it". She had me all the way right through to the end. Tessa's writing is rich, deep and captivating. I am looking forward to the next of her books. Please, keep them coming!
March 19, 2017
Mrs. Jackson and the servants are busy putting together last minute plans for Lady Montforth's annual summer costume ball. The ball will be a great success, of course. Upstairs, the family is dismayed to learn of nephew Teddy Mallory's expulsion from Oxford for numerous misdeeds. This latest escapade was the final straw and Teddy will be returning to Iyntwood in time for the ball. Even Teddy's cousin Harry can't stand Teddy's lack of morals. Lady Montforth accidentally overhears a heated fight between them and when Teddy is found murdered the day after the ball, she worries that her beloved son did the deed. Colonel Valentine begins the investigation with questioning all the guests. When he rounds them up he discovers one of the young ladies, Lucinda Lambert-Lambert is missing. Downstairs, the new maid Violet is also missing. Could their disappearance be tied to the murder? Lady Montforth enlists the aid of Mrs. Jackson to help with the investigation downstairs. The mystery can't be solved until the girls are found. As the investigation goes on, secrets are revealed and loyalties are tested.
This novel contains many of the standard plot lines of a typical Edwardian novel. It's aimed at fans of Downton Abbey and probably Masterpiece Mystery. I'm tired of the usual Edwardian plots. I don't mind Upstairs/Downstairs plots but I knew right where to find Lucinda as soon as everyone learned she was missing. I was surprised none of the characters didn't think of it. I also didn't like the third person point-of-view. There were too many characters involved and Lady Montforth isn't the sleuth, Mrs. Jackson has a larger role and even Lord Montforth has a part. I had a hard time keeping track of all the people in the story, especially the guests. I did especially like how the period details were worked into the story. Facts were related through newspaper stories and gossip rather than being just tossed in the story randomly. The details help set the specific date of the story to June 1913. I couldn't guess who the murderer was until the big clue was revealed. Even then I wasn't sure and there were surprises still to come. I had to skim the final few chapters to find out who done it before I went to sleep!
I found it hard to connect to any of the characters. I liked Lord Harry and his friend Oscar the best. Oscar's secret was fairly obvious. I also liked Lucinda and how she alone saw a problem and did something about it. I admire her courage. Lady Montforth comes across as a typical society matron but with more compassion than most. Mrs. Jackson is a stiff, proper housekeeper who has a hard time stepping out of her rigid role. Lord Montforth seems nice enough but rather absent-minded or detached from the real world. Teddy was a supremely nasty character. Though I wouldn't wish death on anyone, let alone the gruesome way Teddy was murdered, but he was completely without morals. The characters hint at some character flaw that made him so terrible.
I'm not sure I'd read more of this series but I probably would if the library had the books and I had the time to read at least one more.
This novel contains many of the standard plot lines of a typical Edwardian novel. It's aimed at fans of Downton Abbey and probably Masterpiece Mystery. I'm tired of the usual Edwardian plots. I don't mind Upstairs/Downstairs plots but I knew right where to find Lucinda as soon as everyone learned she was missing. I was surprised none of the characters didn't think of it. I also didn't like the third person point-of-view. There were too many characters involved and Lady Montforth isn't the sleuth, Mrs. Jackson has a larger role and even Lord Montforth has a part. I had a hard time keeping track of all the people in the story, especially the guests. I did especially like how the period details were worked into the story. Facts were related through newspaper stories and gossip rather than being just tossed in the story randomly. The details help set the specific date of the story to June 1913. I couldn't guess who the murderer was until the big clue was revealed. Even then I wasn't sure and there were surprises still to come. I had to skim the final few chapters to find out who done it before I went to sleep!
I found it hard to connect to any of the characters. I liked Lord Harry and his friend Oscar the best. Oscar's secret was fairly obvious. I also liked Lucinda and how she alone saw a problem and did something about it. I admire her courage. Lady Montforth comes across as a typical society matron but with more compassion than most. Mrs. Jackson is a stiff, proper housekeeper who has a hard time stepping out of her rigid role. Lord Montforth seems nice enough but rather absent-minded or detached from the real world. Teddy was a supremely nasty character. Though I wouldn't wish death on anyone, let alone the gruesome way Teddy was murdered, but he was completely without morals. The characters hint at some character flaw that made him so terrible.
I'm not sure I'd read more of this series but I probably would if the library had the books and I had the time to read at least one more.
October 12, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is not a "thriller" or even very fast-paced. It is a fabulous exploration of the personalities, cultural divides, and unlikely partnership between the lady of the house and her housekeeper. I thought the writing was fluid and beautifully described the scenes. I never once thought about a clunky transition or poorly paced paragraph. Even though the book is methodical in its exploration of the cultural themes and mystery, it feels like a normal pace, not hurried by some super-smart investigator who figures things out just a little too easily, connects dots that really aren't obvious. I never grew impatient with the pacing. Ms. Arlen did a a fabulous job for this book in this genre which I why I gave it 5 stars. And she is a first-time author!
August 29, 2015
The Edwardian era has long been a favorite of mine as it is with many historical enthusiasts and even more people have been drawn to it by the popularity of Downton Abbey and the earlier Upstairs, Downstairs. Despite the glaring class differences in existence at the time, I think much of its appeal comes from the perception that it was such a peaceful, prosperous time just before the darkness to come and it seems to offer a sense of innocence that would never return. Perhaps that innocence is what really draws us to it.
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman evokes that ambience with its beautifully-drawn setting and characterizations, down to the details of dress and gardens but its really the characters who make this not only a terrific period piece but also a cracking good mystery. The Countess, Clementine, and Mrs. Jackson, her housekeeper, could not be more different in station and personality and, yet, they have one thing in common, the desire to see justice done and to preserve the honor of the family. I found each character to be richly drawn but it's these two women who really carry the story even while they find a way to make their collaboration work despite the gulf between their positions in life and Mrs. Jackson's reluctance to cross those social barriers.
As for the mystery, the disreputable Teddy's death leads to a plethora of secrets and proving Harry's innocence turns out to be far more complex than Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson could possibly have foreseen although they were sure from the beginning that the police were on the wrong track. Almost as unsettling is the disappearance of two young women and, when the truth comes out, life at Iyntwood will be a little tarnished.
All in all, I truly enjoyed this country house mystery and am already looking forward to A Party for Winston, due out next year. Ms. Arlen is an author I want to see more from.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, January 2015.
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman evokes that ambience with its beautifully-drawn setting and characterizations, down to the details of dress and gardens but its really the characters who make this not only a terrific period piece but also a cracking good mystery. The Countess, Clementine, and Mrs. Jackson, her housekeeper, could not be more different in station and personality and, yet, they have one thing in common, the desire to see justice done and to preserve the honor of the family. I found each character to be richly drawn but it's these two women who really carry the story even while they find a way to make their collaboration work despite the gulf between their positions in life and Mrs. Jackson's reluctance to cross those social barriers.
As for the mystery, the disreputable Teddy's death leads to a plethora of secrets and proving Harry's innocence turns out to be far more complex than Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson could possibly have foreseen although they were sure from the beginning that the police were on the wrong track. Almost as unsettling is the disappearance of two young women and, when the truth comes out, life at Iyntwood will be a little tarnished.
All in all, I truly enjoyed this country house mystery and am already looking forward to A Party for Winston, due out next year. Ms. Arlen is an author I want to see more from.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, January 2015.
December 21, 2016
From finishing Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman, my takeaway was that the author did not grow up in England. I checked her biography and spot on: a resident of the United States. Now that does not necessarily make a difference on the quality of work that an author has, especially when writing on a subject or geographical location and culture they did not spend their life immersed in...but unfortunately, it did make a difference in this novel.
The names of the characters sounded unauthentic. The author tried to create a milieu of the typical British environment...and failed miserably. Did she have a thesaurus titled "Different British Words For All Occasions"? It seemed as though she basically plumbed the depths of an Agatha Christie novel or a Downton Abbey episode to write this novel.
That critique doesn't include how laughably ridiculous the dialogue and demeanor of the characters are. The housekeeper solving a murder isn't the most tenuous and reaching part of the novel, but her inward dialogue certainly is.
In other words, don't waste your time reading it. There are much more accomplished authors out there, specially Agatha Christie and P.D. James.
2/5
UPDATE -- 12/20/2016
I woke up this morning to three email alerts on my phone. Apparently someone had posted comments to my personal blog on three articles I had written. "Tessa Arlen". Hmm. The name rung a bell but I couldn't quite place it. I decided to Google it and see if something would jog my memory.
Et voila!! A picture of a Tessa Arlen, the exact same picture in the thumb nail of these three mean spirited commented, popped up in context with some novels.
Aha. Elementary! Tessa Arlen is the author of a book I reviewed a while ago. I don't remember much about the book other than I thought it was rather abysmal. And somehow this beautiful creature stalked me on the great interwebz, found my personal blog and posted these mean spirited comments on it.
I might as well post her comments here for posterity sake.
So Tessa Arlen, if you did indeed post these ridiculous comments on my personal blog, I just want to say --
HUMMUS TASTES FINE WITHOUT CUMIN.
In fact, Lebanese hummus recipes DO NOT CALL FOR CUMIN AT ALL.
And my hummus most certainly does NOT taste like book paste.
Please refrain from continuing to stalk me on my blog. You need to find better things to do with your time. Like write a better book.
1/5 stars now for this entire debacle.
The names of the characters sounded unauthentic. The author tried to create a milieu of the typical British environment...and failed miserably. Did she have a thesaurus titled "Different British Words For All Occasions"? It seemed as though she basically plumbed the depths of an Agatha Christie novel or a Downton Abbey episode to write this novel.
That critique doesn't include how laughably ridiculous the dialogue and demeanor of the characters are. The housekeeper solving a murder isn't the most tenuous and reaching part of the novel, but her inward dialogue certainly is.
In other words, don't waste your time reading it. There are much more accomplished authors out there, specially Agatha Christie and P.D. James.
2/5
UPDATE -- 12/20/2016
I woke up this morning to three email alerts on my phone. Apparently someone had posted comments to my personal blog on three articles I had written. "Tessa Arlen". Hmm. The name rung a bell but I couldn't quite place it. I decided to Google it and see if something would jog my memory.
Et voila!! A picture of a Tessa Arlen, the exact same picture in the thumb nail of these three mean spirited commented, popped up in context with some novels.
Aha. Elementary! Tessa Arlen is the author of a book I reviewed a while ago. I don't remember much about the book other than I thought it was rather abysmal. And somehow this beautiful creature stalked me on the great interwebz, found my personal blog and posted these mean spirited comments on it.
I might as well post her comments here for posterity sake.
So Tessa Arlen, if you did indeed post these ridiculous comments on my personal blog, I just want to say --
HUMMUS TASTES FINE WITHOUT CUMIN.
In fact, Lebanese hummus recipes DO NOT CALL FOR CUMIN AT ALL.
And my hummus most certainly does NOT taste like book paste.
Please refrain from continuing to stalk me on my blog. You need to find better things to do with your time. Like write a better book.
1/5 stars now for this entire debacle.
February 24, 2015
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman Review I had really high hopes when I agreed to participate in the blog tour - and I was most definitely not disappointed. From the opening paragraph I was hooked and thoroughly immersed in the setting and the story.
The book begins as Edith Jackson, the housekeeper for Lord and Lady Montfort, is getting ready for a busy day of final preparations for the annual summer ball. The reader is introduced to the household, the servants and their roles and the family members. There are wonderful descriptions of the estate and the workings of the household. I really appreciated the attention to detail regarding the roles and expectations for every station as well as the dress and gardens.
Despite the beautiful surroundings, all is not well within the family. Lord Monfort's nephew, Teddy Mallory has gotten himself in trouble - again. Lord Montfort received a letter from the president of Oxford University and it pretty much ruined his day. This is the first in a line of problems regarding Teddy. He is not well liked - for good reason - as becomes apparent later in the book.
The family and friends all gather for a sparkling party and things seem to have gone perfectly - until the gruesome discovery the next morning. Lady Montfort is concerned about the investigation into Teddy's murder for personal reasons, and with the help of her inquisitive and clever housekeeper, they defy societal conventions and work discreetly to figure out who the murderer was.
I loved the subtle way in which Mrs. Jackson manages to make inquiries and listen to the gossip of the other servants - despite her first inclination to shut such gossip down immediately. This was one of those books that despite the urgency of the situation, I wanted to read slowly and savor the whole experience. The dialogue and settings were just wonderfully done and I loved the attention to societal expectations and the way both women were able to navigate around and within these expectations and still show that they were smarter and more intuitive than the officials investigating the crime.
I was pleasantly surprised that the author tackled some serious issues with the way servants were treated and thought of. I hadn't really expected her to address these issues, but she did, and did it well.
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman has become the book that I recommend to everyone. I think it would appeal to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and particularly those who enjoy books about Edwardian England and those who watch Downton Abbey. I anticipate reading it again soon - just for the fun of it. I am also anxiously awaiting the second book in the series.
The book begins as Edith Jackson, the housekeeper for Lord and Lady Montfort, is getting ready for a busy day of final preparations for the annual summer ball. The reader is introduced to the household, the servants and their roles and the family members. There are wonderful descriptions of the estate and the workings of the household. I really appreciated the attention to detail regarding the roles and expectations for every station as well as the dress and gardens.
Despite the beautiful surroundings, all is not well within the family. Lord Monfort's nephew, Teddy Mallory has gotten himself in trouble - again. Lord Montfort received a letter from the president of Oxford University and it pretty much ruined his day. This is the first in a line of problems regarding Teddy. He is not well liked - for good reason - as becomes apparent later in the book.
The family and friends all gather for a sparkling party and things seem to have gone perfectly - until the gruesome discovery the next morning. Lady Montfort is concerned about the investigation into Teddy's murder for personal reasons, and with the help of her inquisitive and clever housekeeper, they defy societal conventions and work discreetly to figure out who the murderer was.
I loved the subtle way in which Mrs. Jackson manages to make inquiries and listen to the gossip of the other servants - despite her first inclination to shut such gossip down immediately. This was one of those books that despite the urgency of the situation, I wanted to read slowly and savor the whole experience. The dialogue and settings were just wonderfully done and I loved the attention to societal expectations and the way both women were able to navigate around and within these expectations and still show that they were smarter and more intuitive than the officials investigating the crime.
I was pleasantly surprised that the author tackled some serious issues with the way servants were treated and thought of. I hadn't really expected her to address these issues, but she did, and did it well.
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman has become the book that I recommend to everyone. I think it would appeal to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and particularly those who enjoy books about Edwardian England and those who watch Downton Abbey. I anticipate reading it again soon - just for the fun of it. I am also anxiously awaiting the second book in the series.
January 25, 2015
The country estate, Iyntwood, home of Lord and Lady Montfort, is running smoothly as Clementine Elizabeth Talbot, the Countess of Montfort, is planning her yearly summer costume ball.
Ralph Cuthbert Talbot, the 6th Earl of Montort, is a good husband, father and well-respected employer. However, he is not actually looking forward to the ball as it not one of his favorite things.
They have 3 children, son, Harry, who lives on his own, plus two daughters, Althea and Verity who no longer live at home. Their cousin, Teddy, will also join the family for the ball. When his parents passed away, he came to live with, and was raised by, his uncle’s family.
Each person employed by the estate knows his/her job and place in the scheme of things. Housekeeper, Edith Jackson, oversees the running of the estate and meets daily with Clementine to ensure that meals, etc. are perfectly planned. George Hollyoak is the butler and major domo and is a stickler for seeing that things are done correctly. Mrs. Thwaite is the Cook and while her dishes are sublime, her garrulous nature can be rather irritating. The family is very lucky to have in their employ Mr. Thrower, Head Gardner, and Ernest Stafford, Gardener. Their talents are extraordinary in keeping the grounds and flowers in pristine order.
The ball is going nicely until Teddy is found murdered. When the police become involved in investigating the murder, each person attending the ball and everyone in the house is questioned in depth. On the same night, two young women vanish from the estate leaving many questions to be solved. The questioning extends the time that all of the guests and family members are asked to stay at the estate and becomes quite wearying for all concerned.
Clementine, Lady Montfort, and Edith, the Housekeeper take an unusual step by secretly sharing information that may help to solve the murder.
The characters in this novel show great creativity on the author’s part. Just think of it as an episode of Downton Abbey with the ability to get to know the people both upstairs and downstairs. I found the mystery to be extremely well written and one that the reader may not easily solve on their own. Lots of twists and turns keeps you glued until the last page. A wonderful story of the Edwardian times that will be long remembered.
Ralph Cuthbert Talbot, the 6th Earl of Montort, is a good husband, father and well-respected employer. However, he is not actually looking forward to the ball as it not one of his favorite things.
They have 3 children, son, Harry, who lives on his own, plus two daughters, Althea and Verity who no longer live at home. Their cousin, Teddy, will also join the family for the ball. When his parents passed away, he came to live with, and was raised by, his uncle’s family.
Each person employed by the estate knows his/her job and place in the scheme of things. Housekeeper, Edith Jackson, oversees the running of the estate and meets daily with Clementine to ensure that meals, etc. are perfectly planned. George Hollyoak is the butler and major domo and is a stickler for seeing that things are done correctly. Mrs. Thwaite is the Cook and while her dishes are sublime, her garrulous nature can be rather irritating. The family is very lucky to have in their employ Mr. Thrower, Head Gardner, and Ernest Stafford, Gardener. Their talents are extraordinary in keeping the grounds and flowers in pristine order.
The ball is going nicely until Teddy is found murdered. When the police become involved in investigating the murder, each person attending the ball and everyone in the house is questioned in depth. On the same night, two young women vanish from the estate leaving many questions to be solved. The questioning extends the time that all of the guests and family members are asked to stay at the estate and becomes quite wearying for all concerned.
Clementine, Lady Montfort, and Edith, the Housekeeper take an unusual step by secretly sharing information that may help to solve the murder.
The characters in this novel show great creativity on the author’s part. Just think of it as an episode of Downton Abbey with the ability to get to know the people both upstairs and downstairs. I found the mystery to be extremely well written and one that the reader may not easily solve on their own. Lots of twists and turns keeps you glued until the last page. A wonderful story of the Edwardian times that will be long remembered.
January 21, 2015
3.5 stars
This book began a little flat for me. It was partially the tone and partially the story/characters. I just didn’t feel a connection with any of the characters or the story right away. And this made me nervous.
It wasn’t immediately clear who the protagonist was going to be and while I suspected it was Lady Montford, I wasn’t entirely sure, so I had my reservations to say the least.
Some of the characters and event aspects of the plot were basic, stereotypical, and cliche. But I was still willing to hold out hope that the story could get better.
Somewhere along the way, I finally got hooked into the plot….I can’t quite pin point where but if I had to venture a guess I would say, for me, it was Teddy’s murder that gave me hope.
I was honestly suspecting him to be shot or something a little less hands on and graphic than a hanging. The fact that the author went with a unique murder method was intriguing and made me hope that the novel would get better.
I am so glad I kept reading and didn’t give up on this one. Thankfully the murder happens almost immediately so I didn’t have to spend too long hoping for a redeeming quality.
One of the things I liked best about this novel was the exploration and description of the social structure/hierarchy. I felt like the research which went into the culture and history of the setting was useful in creating an authentic setting.
The Edwardian era was full of opulence and excess which was evident in the lives of the characters. I thought this added to the murder mystery especially since there was such a division between the classes within the story.
While I struggled initially with the novel, I think the overall resolution and the mystery itself made it a decent read. The historic research and information was very realistic and added to the story. I loved that it wasn’t necessarily a ‘cozy mystery’ nor was it truly a ‘detective novel’….it was more of a hodgepodge of genres which made it different and unique.
See my full review here
This book began a little flat for me. It was partially the tone and partially the story/characters. I just didn’t feel a connection with any of the characters or the story right away. And this made me nervous.
It wasn’t immediately clear who the protagonist was going to be and while I suspected it was Lady Montford, I wasn’t entirely sure, so I had my reservations to say the least.
Some of the characters and event aspects of the plot were basic, stereotypical, and cliche. But I was still willing to hold out hope that the story could get better.
Somewhere along the way, I finally got hooked into the plot….I can’t quite pin point where but if I had to venture a guess I would say, for me, it was Teddy’s murder that gave me hope.
I was honestly suspecting him to be shot or something a little less hands on and graphic than a hanging. The fact that the author went with a unique murder method was intriguing and made me hope that the novel would get better.
I am so glad I kept reading and didn’t give up on this one. Thankfully the murder happens almost immediately so I didn’t have to spend too long hoping for a redeeming quality.
One of the things I liked best about this novel was the exploration and description of the social structure/hierarchy. I felt like the research which went into the culture and history of the setting was useful in creating an authentic setting.
The Edwardian era was full of opulence and excess which was evident in the lives of the characters. I thought this added to the murder mystery especially since there was such a division between the classes within the story.
While I struggled initially with the novel, I think the overall resolution and the mystery itself made it a decent read. The historic research and information was very realistic and added to the story. I loved that it wasn’t necessarily a ‘cozy mystery’ nor was it truly a ‘detective novel’….it was more of a hodgepodge of genres which made it different and unique.
See my full review here
June 1, 2015
I was so excited about this book. Our local library didn't have it, and I had to order it in at the bookstore where I work because it was that important to me to read it. It looked like it was going to be something I could just lose myself in... my favourite era and setting, a murder mystery. How could it go wrong? Sadly, it went very wrong for me.
There were too many characters, with little to no character development. Even the main characters were not up to par. I had no idea what kind of a person Lady Montfort was as her personality seemed to waffle between haughty Lady of the Manor and a wannabe Miss Marple. The long-time housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, seemed to have little to no relationship with any of the other staff in the house, and approached her 'investigation' as if she didn't know them at all. Lord Montfort was just wishy-washy, never really asserted himself as Lord of the Manor. The massive list of Lords and Ladies who were staying at the house for the big house party was completely overwhelming. Halfway through the book I found myself wondering who was who because none of the houseguests were at all memorable, except for their pomposity and bigotry.
My biggest frustration with this book was that the author did far more telling than showing. The dialogue (or lack thereof) was frustrating and repetitive. About a third of the way through the book there was supposed to be a very critical interview between two main characters, and it was written almost exclusively in narrative form. The characters simply had no voice.
The author did a good job incorporating historical and cultural detail, but I really feel like this book needed another draft (or two) to get to where it could have been ready for publication.
I read about half of the book, hopeful that it would improve, and then flipped to the end and skimmed the last couple of chapters to see if I was right about the murderer (I was wrong, as usual).
Verdict: This book won't be a long-term resident on my bookshelf. Off to the thrift store with the next purge.
There were too many characters, with little to no character development. Even the main characters were not up to par. I had no idea what kind of a person Lady Montfort was as her personality seemed to waffle between haughty Lady of the Manor and a wannabe Miss Marple. The long-time housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, seemed to have little to no relationship with any of the other staff in the house, and approached her 'investigation' as if she didn't know them at all. Lord Montfort was just wishy-washy, never really asserted himself as Lord of the Manor. The massive list of Lords and Ladies who were staying at the house for the big house party was completely overwhelming. Halfway through the book I found myself wondering who was who because none of the houseguests were at all memorable, except for their pomposity and bigotry.
My biggest frustration with this book was that the author did far more telling than showing. The dialogue (or lack thereof) was frustrating and repetitive. About a third of the way through the book there was supposed to be a very critical interview between two main characters, and it was written almost exclusively in narrative form. The characters simply had no voice.
The author did a good job incorporating historical and cultural detail, but I really feel like this book needed another draft (or two) to get to where it could have been ready for publication.
I read about half of the book, hopeful that it would improve, and then flipped to the end and skimmed the last couple of chapters to see if I was right about the murderer (I was wrong, as usual).
Verdict: This book won't be a long-term resident on my bookshelf. Off to the thrift store with the next purge.
April 26, 2018
This book captures the best relationship I've encountered between the lady of the house and her housekeeper. Author Tessa Arlen hit that target spot on for me with Lady Montfort's easy assumption that she could ask for help from her housekeeper in solving the many mysteries swirling around Iyntwood. Also on target was the struggle Mrs. Jackson had with stepping out of the rigorous confines of her own position as housekeeper. Rules of conduct were put in place to keep upstairs and downstairs firmly separated and now those two stations were coming together to compare gossip picked up from all kinds of sources. Things will never be the same again, but needs must to keep Harry from being suspected of the murder of his cousin.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the Lady Montfort series and will certainly keep reading the remaining books. I appreciate the way Tessa Arlen handled the subject of women's voting rights. Even with such a worthwhile subject there were still two sides to the controversy taking place when the struggle was going on. My main reason for wanting to read the next story in this series is to watch how the author handles the changed relationship which now exists between Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson. That is going to require a lot of adjustment on both sides of the baize door.
I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the Lady Montfort series and will certainly keep reading the remaining books. I appreciate the way Tessa Arlen handled the subject of women's voting rights. Even with such a worthwhile subject there were still two sides to the controversy taking place when the struggle was going on. My main reason for wanting to read the next story in this series is to watch how the author handles the changed relationship which now exists between Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson. That is going to require a lot of adjustment on both sides of the baize door.
May 16, 2019
Lord and Lady Montfort are preparing for their annual June masquerade party at their country home. It is a famous and popular bash, but this year there's an additional fillip--a member of their family is gruesomely murdered. All the guests have to stay on for several days while the investigations proceed.
The era is more or less Downton Abbey/Upstairs Downstairs, and the author has done her homework, from the identity and politics of the prime minister to the agitations of the suffragists. Occasionally the historical context feels awkwardly delivered in stilted dialog, but for he most part it is smoothly incorporated into the story and creates a well-realized setting. Some of the central characters are clearly delineated, but unfortunately there are a few too many of them and I got a bit mixed up over who was who. The manners and mores of the era feel right for the most part, but the exigencies of the crisis in the household force some crossing of class boundaries.
Overall I found myself feeling a bit detached from the story and the characters. The plot moves along without a lot of hurry or danger, and I enjoyed the pace but didn't quite get caught up in it. The emotions were more described than felt for me. It's well done but I missed a spark.
The era is more or less Downton Abbey/Upstairs Downstairs, and the author has done her homework, from the identity and politics of the prime minister to the agitations of the suffragists. Occasionally the historical context feels awkwardly delivered in stilted dialog, but for he most part it is smoothly incorporated into the story and creates a well-realized setting. Some of the central characters are clearly delineated, but unfortunately there are a few too many of them and I got a bit mixed up over who was who. The manners and mores of the era feel right for the most part, but the exigencies of the crisis in the household force some crossing of class boundaries.
Overall I found myself feeling a bit detached from the story and the characters. The plot moves along without a lot of hurry or danger, and I enjoyed the pace but didn't quite get caught up in it. The emotions were more described than felt for me. It's well done but I missed a spark.
July 31, 2016
Nominated for the 2015 Agatha for Best First Novel, the first entry in the Lady Montfort mystery series was a strong one. The series is set in early 1900s England. According to the blurbs on the book jacket, it was billed as being sure to appeal to fans of Downton Abbey. Since I'm pretty sure that I'm one of about three people who have not watched the series (I know, I know...insert surprised gasp of horror here), I wasn't sure whether it would hook me in the same way. Any concerns were quickly allayed by the time I finished the first chapter, however, and I found this an extremely enjoyable mystery. Excellent writing, historical details skillfully woven into the story (I loved the suffragette movement details in particular), and the plot development overall held my attention throughout, and I plan to read the next one in the series based on this fine first entry. While I'm sure that this series will indeed appeal to fans of Downton Abbey, I think this series will appeal even more broadly to any fan of historical fiction and Golden Age-style mysteries.
February 6, 2015
An Edwardian mystery with a possibly surprising number of contemporary events; if, like me, you studied each event on its own, you may not have a holistic sense of the context. Tessa Arlen even manages to get in the traditional dig at France, with the subtle humor that's prevalent throughout the story.
The characters are well-drawn and true to their position (though my mind kept picturing Downton Abbey, which I hope the author takes as a compliment) and the awkwardness of cross-status dealings with multiple levels of authority was handled with aplomb. Unpleasant events may have been publicly brushed under the carpet, but it's clear that they were not unknown. The mystery itself was slow to build and never overpowering, both appropriate for the era.
Very enjoyable, and I look forward to the next one!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The characters are well-drawn and true to their position (though my mind kept picturing Downton Abbey, which I hope the author takes as a compliment) and the awkwardness of cross-status dealings with multiple levels of authority was handled with aplomb. Unpleasant events may have been publicly brushed under the carpet, but it's clear that they were not unknown. The mystery itself was slow to build and never overpowering, both appropriate for the era.
Very enjoyable, and I look forward to the next one!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 10, 2021
There were too many characters and it was very difficult to tell them apart, especially with no descriptions and constantly switching between their title, last name, and first. The book finally got interesting 200 pages in.
The entire subplot of the suffragettes and women's rights movements was unnecessary and did nothing to help move the story along. Honestly I don't know why it was in there. I liked Lucinda and what she did, don't get me wrong.
Then all of a sudden, at the very end, they threw in a burglary. Was is just to be confusing? Because the Death of the Dishonorable Gentleman in question had nothing to do with the burglary. Unless I'm way off the mark Teddy was killed by Violet's farther for raping her. Cut and dry. So why was there a whole burglary scheme thrown in if it wasn't adequately explained and did nothing for the story.
The entire subplot of the suffragettes and women's rights movements was unnecessary and did nothing to help move the story along. Honestly I don't know why it was in there. I liked Lucinda and what she did, don't get me wrong.
Then all of a sudden, at the very end, they threw in a burglary. Was is just to be confusing? Because the Death of the Dishonorable Gentleman in question had nothing to do with the burglary. Unless I'm way off the mark Teddy was killed by Violet's farther for raping her. Cut and dry. So why was there a whole burglary scheme thrown in if it wasn't adequately explained and did nothing for the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2015
This is a strong literary mystery with compelling characters and a wonderful couple of amateur sleuth. A Countess and her housekeeper solve a tricky murder at a country house weekend after the family's prestigious annual summer ball, unearthing the dark secretes of an array of fascinating guests as they go along.
Historically the novel is very well researched, with lots of references to the period that immerse us in the era. I found it far more interesting than an episode of Downton, as the characters were believable, real people.
Well written with witty observations and lovely character dialogue that made me want to meet them in person. This must read for mystery fans is richly detailed and well-paced.
Historically the novel is very well researched, with lots of references to the period that immerse us in the era. I found it far more interesting than an episode of Downton, as the characters were believable, real people.
Well written with witty observations and lovely character dialogue that made me want to meet them in person. This must read for mystery fans is richly detailed and well-paced.
February 27, 2015
Exquisitely detailed story set in an English manor house in the early 20th Century, where there's been a horrible murder during a house party. The story is told through the housekeeper's voice and the lady of the house which I found quite novel. The privileged classes set against the those below stairs. The pace is rather slow but the characters were so good it didn't drag. Shades of Downton Abbey. Very enjoyable.
March 22, 2017
Very dull and try. Worse, it was hinted at that the reason it was solved was because the MC had money and was smarter. That was one of the prevailing thoughts of the time. If you're going to do that, own it - don't hint and keep it quiet.
August 29, 2017
Originally posted on You Have Your Hands Full
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman is the first book in Tessa Arlen’s Lady Montfort mystery series.
Lady Montfort loves planning her annual summer party. She is happy to have her son home from Oxford, as well as his childhood friends. However, things take a nasty turn when her nephew Teddy is found dead- gruesomely murdered, it seems. Lady Montfort saw her son arguing with Teddy and even shoving him. She knows that her son is not capable of such a heinous crime, but she is also afraid that the investigation will lead back to him.
Lady Montfort works with her trusted housekeeper Mrs. Jackson. Together, they interview the party guests and household servants and reconvene to discuss their findings. Teddy was a troublemaker, and the truth is that any number of people at the party may have wanted him dead. But who among them was angry enough to follow through with their rage?
The story is set in the Edwardian age, so comparisons to Downton Abbey are inevitable. There is quite a disparity between the denizens of the “upstairs” and the “downstairs” servants, and it’s fascinating that they inhabit the same sphere. It appears that many people have secrets, all of which are revealed over the course of the book. The mystery was quite satisfying; I was second guessing all the way up to the big reveal.
I would recommend Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman. The setting is lush, and I loved the inclusion of multiple points of view to showcase different perspectives and reactions to Teddy’s murder. Arlen has created a fascinating world, and I am looking forward to reading the next books in the Lady Montfort series!
Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman is the first book in Tessa Arlen’s Lady Montfort mystery series.
Lady Montfort loves planning her annual summer party. She is happy to have her son home from Oxford, as well as his childhood friends. However, things take a nasty turn when her nephew Teddy is found dead- gruesomely murdered, it seems. Lady Montfort saw her son arguing with Teddy and even shoving him. She knows that her son is not capable of such a heinous crime, but she is also afraid that the investigation will lead back to him.
Lady Montfort works with her trusted housekeeper Mrs. Jackson. Together, they interview the party guests and household servants and reconvene to discuss their findings. Teddy was a troublemaker, and the truth is that any number of people at the party may have wanted him dead. But who among them was angry enough to follow through with their rage?
The story is set in the Edwardian age, so comparisons to Downton Abbey are inevitable. There is quite a disparity between the denizens of the “upstairs” and the “downstairs” servants, and it’s fascinating that they inhabit the same sphere. It appears that many people have secrets, all of which are revealed over the course of the book. The mystery was quite satisfying; I was second guessing all the way up to the big reveal.
I would recommend Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman. The setting is lush, and I loved the inclusion of multiple points of view to showcase different perspectives and reactions to Teddy’s murder. Arlen has created a fascinating world, and I am looking forward to reading the next books in the Lady Montfort series!
August 9, 2018
This was a perfectly pleasant historical mystery. It felt juuuust on the edge of a fair and solvable mystery (mostly fair but a few last minute revelations), but it was mostly a chance to relive Downton Abbey, which was a model it adheres to very, very, VERY closely. I had two central complaints. The author did a lot of solid research (particularly around food!), but there were some iffy anachronisms in the language of the characters. Things like the cook asking “what is up with her?” or the earl saying something is “no problem” were a little jarring (and also sounded like Americanisms). The other issue was the characters: there were a lot of them. A. Lot. Red herrings are fine, but including characters who literally have no function in the plot just muddies the waters, particularly when the author alternates referring to them by their title and name depending on who was speaking. All the same, the main characters are both very interesting, and the author makes good use of the relationship between a housekeeper and the mistress of the house to drive the plot. Good heat wave reading.
October 3, 2024
An English country house murder mystery set at the time just before WWI when the gentry are starting to realize that times are a'changin'. The body of the rascally nephew of the lord of the manor is found hanging from a gibbet after a near all-night party at the big house. Oh, the audacity of the police to question their "betters" and not take a gentleman's word for it that he was asleep in his bed at the time of the murder! "The age of hushing up unattractive and embarrassing breaches of the law for the country’s privileged classes was a thing of the past." The stiff upper lip is still prized. "The Talbots and their servants must not react or become overemotional. Good manners and self-discipline were all they had to fall back on at times like these." The ending was anticlimactic, but I enjoyed the evolving relationships among the classes.
October 27, 2024
My one problem with this book is that there are all kinds of historical indicators that don’t add up. For example, we learn that King Edward is dead (1910], the Titanic has sunk (1912], and the Alabama Slide has been published and is already known in England (1915). Yet there is no reference to WWI (1914-1918).
Late in the book, we are informed that the Bakerloo tube line is newly opened (1906).
So when exactly does this story take place?
Most authors of historical fiction include a note which often includes the events with which she has taken liberties, in the interests of her plot. This author does not do that. I wonder if she thinks her readers are too stupid to notice.
Late in the book, we are informed that the Bakerloo tube line is newly opened (1906).
So when exactly does this story take place?
Most authors of historical fiction include a note which often includes the events with which she has taken liberties, in the interests of her plot. This author does not do that. I wonder if she thinks her readers are too stupid to notice.
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