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Miss Underhay #6
Убийство в Елм Хаус
Кити Ъндърхей е на крачка от ново разкритие в шестата част от пристрастяващата криминална поредица на Хелена Диксън.
Англия, 1934 година. Освен талант за разкриване на престъпления Кити Ъндърхей притежава и добро сърце. В този случай са й нужни и двете. Милисън Крейвън е претърпяла операция и в момента се възстановява в оздравителния дом „Елм Хаус”. Въпреки старата вражда със страховитата приятелка на баба си, Кити решава да я посети заедно с капитан Матю Брайънт. Нещо не е съвсем наред в „Елм Хаус”. Госпожа Крейвън е убедена, че смъртта на една от обитателките на дома е предизвикана насилствено. Скоро след това умира друг от гостите и подозренията й започват да изглеждат все по-основателни. За институция, обещаваща здраве и благоденствие, процентът на оцелелите тук е твърде нисък. Достатъчен мотив Кити да започне свое разследване. Следите я отвеждат до нов труп, а Матю се натъква на разкритие, по-зловещо и от най-мрачните му представи. И когато Кити не се прибира вкъщи след поредната среща във връзка със случая, става ясно, че е попаднала в капан, заложен от безскрупулен убиец...
В „Убийство в „Елм Хаус” Хелена Диксън отново поднася на читателите неустоимата смес от интригуваща загадка, неочаквани обрати и доза романтика, превърнала поредицата за Кити Ъндърхей в задължително четиво за почитателите на уютни мистерии.
Англия, 1934 година. Освен талант за разкриване на престъпления Кити Ъндърхей притежава и добро сърце. В този случай са й нужни и двете. Милисън Крейвън е претърпяла операция и в момента се възстановява в оздравителния дом „Елм Хаус”. Въпреки старата вражда със страховитата приятелка на баба си, Кити решава да я посети заедно с капитан Матю Брайънт. Нещо не е съвсем наред в „Елм Хаус”. Госпожа Крейвън е убедена, че смъртта на една от обитателките на дома е предизвикана насилствено. Скоро след това умира друг от гостите и подозренията й започват да изглеждат все по-основателни. За институция, обещаваща здраве и благоденствие, процентът на оцелелите тук е твърде нисък. Достатъчен мотив Кити да започне свое разследване. Следите я отвеждат до нов труп, а Матю се натъква на разкритие, по-зловещо и от най-мрачните му представи. И когато Кити не се прибира вкъщи след поредната среща във връзка със случая, става ясно, че е попаднала в капан, заложен от безскрупулен убиец...
В „Убийство в „Елм Хаус” Хелена Диксън отново поднася на читателите неустоимата смес от интригуваща загадка, неочаквани обрати и доза романтика, превърнала поредицата за Кити Ъндърхей в задължително четиво за почитателите на уютни мистерии.
256 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2021
1259 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
Helena Dixon
30 books303 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
June 5, 2021
From the moment I saw that cover and discovered that Kitty had a pretty little red car all of her own, and that she was learning to drive it herself, I just knew it was not going to be good. Consequently I was sitting on the edge of my seat for most of the book waiting for the inevitable to happen. I also spent a lot of time telling Kitty to be more careful but she took no notice of me.
This was another fun episode in this great series. I love the way the relationship between Kitty and Matthew has developed. They work together well and although he worries about her (as do I) he does not try to stop her when she is on the case. In fact he buys her the troubling red car which he calls the Red Peril.
I look forward to every new book in this series and I hope there will be many more!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This was another fun episode in this great series. I love the way the relationship between Kitty and Matthew has developed. They work together well and although he worries about her (as do I) he does not try to stop her when she is on the case. In fact he buys her the troubling red car which he calls the Red Peril.
I look forward to every new book in this series and I hope there will be many more!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 6, 2021
It was England in 1934 and Kitty Underhay, proprietor with her grandmother of the Dolphin Hotel, had just promised her she would visit her good friend Mrs Craven at Elm House, where she was recuperating after surgery and take along Captain Matthew Bryant, ex-army and now private investigator, also Kitty’s beau. Mrs Craven was concerned about the sudden death of Lady Wellings, telling Kitty of her suspicions. And with another sudden death, Kitty and Matt began to believe what Mrs Craven was saying had merit.
Meanwhile the police were tracking Ezekiel Hammett and his sister Esther, both wanted for various crimes which had much to do with Kitty. Slippery as an eel, but extremely dangerous, Matt was concerned that Kitty was putting herself in danger. Kitty’s grandmother made her promise to take more care, plus Kitty's driving lessons were making her shudder. With two different cases where Matt and Kitty were involved, the danger was close by. What was going on with Elm House? And where was Ezekiel hiding?
Murder at Elm House is 6th in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and once again I loved it. This is a fabulous, fun and entertaining series and I hope the author continues to write more and more. The gentle, burgeoning relationship between Kitty and Matt is perfectly done, with the mystery and suspense keeping this reader turning the pages, completely enjoying the read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Meanwhile the police were tracking Ezekiel Hammett and his sister Esther, both wanted for various crimes which had much to do with Kitty. Slippery as an eel, but extremely dangerous, Matt was concerned that Kitty was putting herself in danger. Kitty’s grandmother made her promise to take more care, plus Kitty's driving lessons were making her shudder. With two different cases where Matt and Kitty were involved, the danger was close by. What was going on with Elm House? And where was Ezekiel hiding?
Murder at Elm House is 6th in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and once again I loved it. This is a fabulous, fun and entertaining series and I hope the author continues to write more and more. The gentle, burgeoning relationship between Kitty and Matt is perfectly done, with the mystery and suspense keeping this reader turning the pages, completely enjoying the read. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2021
“Kitty Underhay feels the touch… of death”
What a delightful read, and all over far too soon!
This is another excellent series to add to my recently rediscovered liking for Golden Age Murder Mysteries, after I had so wrongly assumed that no other author could take the place of the late, great, Agatha Christie, as an excellent exponent of the genre. Helena Dixon joins a growing list of writers in the genre, I am aiming to follow from here on out, any one of which would make an excellent transition to the small screen as a television dramatization, with their period murder mysteries.
I do however, wish I had been in on this series right from the beginning, as whilst Murder At Elm House worked fine as a stand alone story and in that respect had a definitive ending to the episode; and whilst the relationship between Kitty and Matt is quite nicely explained by some well inserted back-fill during the course of the narrative and dialogue; there is clearly an on-going backstory which connects each of Kitty’s amateur sleuthing cases together, and for which a resolution is yet to be established, although I don’t want to raise the spectre of too many spoilers by saying more!
From the few hints and snippets cunningly revealed at strategic intervals, this well structured series sounds as though it is pinned together by some wonderfully skilful multi-layered stories, including this beautifully textured adventure, which is written with real heart, a little humour, but always authentically, with confidence, consummate ease and total authority. The author writes about a location she obviously knows quite well, with the diligent period research and attention to detail, offering a real sense of time and place. Devon is also one of my own personal favourite English Counties and references to Torquay evoked memories of time spent there on honeymoon, way back in 1979, long before overseas destinations were available to the masses, so this was a real trip down memory lane, despite the forty year time lag from then, back to the 1930s of Kitty’s investigations.
The chapters were relatively short, which kept the suspenseful action moving along fluidly, whilst some assured observational and descriptive narrative, together with some crisp yet conversational dialogue, kept the storyline and scene changes seamless and perfectly in tune with the times. Who would have thought that a genteel convalescent home could be the scene for so much violence and multiple duplicitous machinations, which was especially worrying when a couple of the residents seem hellbent on being Kitty’s ‘eyes on the ground’, despite becoming potential victims themselves. Add to that, Kitty and Matthew’s growing fear that the incidents at Elm House somehow involve their nemesis, Ezekiel Hammett, who has evaded both them and the authorities for almost two decades!
Death and wrongdoing are never far from the forefront of the conversation, no matter whose voice we are listening to and whilst Kitty can be perceived as much of a hindrance as a help, the police do have a grudging respect for her detective skills, even more so now that she has teamed up with Matthew, who is a qualified Private Investigator, thus making her official status somewhat more acceptable. Although perhaps a headstrong Kitty should rein in her enthusiasm just a little, if she wants to remain in one piece long enough to meet and conquer her elusive nemesis and right the wrongs of her childhood, especially as things between herself and Matthew are far from a ‘business only’ arrangement!
Helena allows all of her individual characters a voice and presence which is uniquely and authentically their own, so they all came to me with such well defined and developed, if often complex personalities, I could choose to either relate to and engage with wholeheartedly, or treat with the contempt some of them clearly deserved. Kitty herself is a very transformational and forward thinking woman for the times, who treats her elders and betters with the same respect and concern that she shows to all the employees at the hotel she manages for her grandmother. In return this earns her their unequivocal and unerring loyalty, even though for the maid Alice, this means getting herself into some very sticky situations, as she shadows Kitty’s rather impulsive need to put herself front and centre of any murder investigation which happens to cross her path. The growing affection and synergy between Kitty and Matthew is getting stronger by the day, as he is at last beginning to put the past traumas of wartime and the loss of his young family behind him and carve a future and way forward for them as a couple.
To see them become a couple both personally and professionally would be the icing on the cake for this lovely series and I look forward to the next step on that hopefully not too distant journey!
I read for escapism, entertainment, enjoyment and emotion, although not necessarily in that order, so this story ticked all those boxes for me!
For more information and to check out those all important extracts, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
What a delightful read, and all over far too soon!
This is another excellent series to add to my recently rediscovered liking for Golden Age Murder Mysteries, after I had so wrongly assumed that no other author could take the place of the late, great, Agatha Christie, as an excellent exponent of the genre. Helena Dixon joins a growing list of writers in the genre, I am aiming to follow from here on out, any one of which would make an excellent transition to the small screen as a television dramatization, with their period murder mysteries.
I do however, wish I had been in on this series right from the beginning, as whilst Murder At Elm House worked fine as a stand alone story and in that respect had a definitive ending to the episode; and whilst the relationship between Kitty and Matt is quite nicely explained by some well inserted back-fill during the course of the narrative and dialogue; there is clearly an on-going backstory which connects each of Kitty’s amateur sleuthing cases together, and for which a resolution is yet to be established, although I don’t want to raise the spectre of too many spoilers by saying more!
From the few hints and snippets cunningly revealed at strategic intervals, this well structured series sounds as though it is pinned together by some wonderfully skilful multi-layered stories, including this beautifully textured adventure, which is written with real heart, a little humour, but always authentically, with confidence, consummate ease and total authority. The author writes about a location she obviously knows quite well, with the diligent period research and attention to detail, offering a real sense of time and place. Devon is also one of my own personal favourite English Counties and references to Torquay evoked memories of time spent there on honeymoon, way back in 1979, long before overseas destinations were available to the masses, so this was a real trip down memory lane, despite the forty year time lag from then, back to the 1930s of Kitty’s investigations.
The chapters were relatively short, which kept the suspenseful action moving along fluidly, whilst some assured observational and descriptive narrative, together with some crisp yet conversational dialogue, kept the storyline and scene changes seamless and perfectly in tune with the times. Who would have thought that a genteel convalescent home could be the scene for so much violence and multiple duplicitous machinations, which was especially worrying when a couple of the residents seem hellbent on being Kitty’s ‘eyes on the ground’, despite becoming potential victims themselves. Add to that, Kitty and Matthew’s growing fear that the incidents at Elm House somehow involve their nemesis, Ezekiel Hammett, who has evaded both them and the authorities for almost two decades!
Death and wrongdoing are never far from the forefront of the conversation, no matter whose voice we are listening to and whilst Kitty can be perceived as much of a hindrance as a help, the police do have a grudging respect for her detective skills, even more so now that she has teamed up with Matthew, who is a qualified Private Investigator, thus making her official status somewhat more acceptable. Although perhaps a headstrong Kitty should rein in her enthusiasm just a little, if she wants to remain in one piece long enough to meet and conquer her elusive nemesis and right the wrongs of her childhood, especially as things between herself and Matthew are far from a ‘business only’ arrangement!
Helena allows all of her individual characters a voice and presence which is uniquely and authentically their own, so they all came to me with such well defined and developed, if often complex personalities, I could choose to either relate to and engage with wholeheartedly, or treat with the contempt some of them clearly deserved. Kitty herself is a very transformational and forward thinking woman for the times, who treats her elders and betters with the same respect and concern that she shows to all the employees at the hotel she manages for her grandmother. In return this earns her their unequivocal and unerring loyalty, even though for the maid Alice, this means getting herself into some very sticky situations, as she shadows Kitty’s rather impulsive need to put herself front and centre of any murder investigation which happens to cross her path. The growing affection and synergy between Kitty and Matthew is getting stronger by the day, as he is at last beginning to put the past traumas of wartime and the loss of his young family behind him and carve a future and way forward for them as a couple.
To see them become a couple both personally and professionally would be the icing on the cake for this lovely series and I look forward to the next step on that hopefully not too distant journey!
I read for escapism, entertainment, enjoyment and emotion, although not necessarily in that order, so this story ticked all those boxes for me!
For more information and to check out those all important extracts, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
June 14, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
The general’s bushy brows knitted together like two angry silver beetles.
My Review:
Helena Dixon is a smooth storyteller and I enjoy her comfortable and engaging writing style. Her scenes are complete and thoroughly set and flicker through my cranium as effortlessly as a movie reel with colorful and vivid details and descriptions of texture, appearance, sound, smell, and the inner musings of the main characters as they interact. The main characters were instantly likable and appealing while her secondary characters were uniquely eccentric.
Most notably, Ms. Dixon’s clever arrangements of words are of the rare quality that keeps me continually engaged, amused, and ever-curious with a cracking good mystery while still being tame and gentle enough to recommend to my elderly mother’s book club of church ladies; which is admittedly an uncommon occurrence.
And score - I have a new addition to my Brit Words and Phrases list with mare’s nest, which Mr. Google tells me is a deliberate hoax or illusion.
The general’s bushy brows knitted together like two angry silver beetles.
My Review:
Helena Dixon is a smooth storyteller and I enjoy her comfortable and engaging writing style. Her scenes are complete and thoroughly set and flicker through my cranium as effortlessly as a movie reel with colorful and vivid details and descriptions of texture, appearance, sound, smell, and the inner musings of the main characters as they interact. The main characters were instantly likable and appealing while her secondary characters were uniquely eccentric.
Most notably, Ms. Dixon’s clever arrangements of words are of the rare quality that keeps me continually engaged, amused, and ever-curious with a cracking good mystery while still being tame and gentle enough to recommend to my elderly mother’s book club of church ladies; which is admittedly an uncommon occurrence.
And score - I have a new addition to my Brit Words and Phrases list with mare’s nest, which Mr. Google tells me is a deliberate hoax or illusion.
September 14, 2021
The Hammett siblings are still at large, Kitty Underhay gets herself a red car and there is something suspicious and deadly going on at the Elm House Nursing Home where Mrs. Craven, Kitty's grandmother's good friend is recuperating after a recent operation. As Kitty and Matt Bryant investigate the going ons at the nursing home it becomes apparent to them that there is a connection between whatever is happening there and the Hammett siblings. Plus, Kitty puts her red car, christianed the Red Peril, to very good use. Entertaining and engaging, this is another great installment and I have to say I am getting hooked to this series.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Helena Dixon for the e-Arc of the book.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and the author Helena Dixon for the e-Arc of the book.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
June 11, 2021
No matter how much time Kitty would prefer to get the Dolphin Hotel up to speed, she is distracted yet again from other crimes. In this case there is another murder. Added to that is the fact that her good friend and love interest, Matt Bryant's house was nearly robbed, Kitty proves distracted.
Kitty's grandmother is more than concerned at Kitty facing danger more than once. Will Kitty leave the work of solving the current crimes to Matthew or will she investigate the crimes, proving her inate curiosity and skill when matters such as these are facing her.
Kitty's grandsmother's friend Mrs. Cravin is convalescing at Elm House and she is certain things are amiss. She asks Kitty and Matt for help as to sort out whatever could bw wrong. Whether direct questions towards Mrs. Craven, or due to insightful obsvertations, the pair prove more than adept as to working things out.
Per usual for Kitty, there are some people who do not like her questionss and interferrence, no matter how crafty she is in her investigatons. Suspicious activity is attempting to be hidden under a shroud of secrecy and lies. With an terrific pacing and engaging characters, including Kitty's grandmother and her maid, Dolly. this was a delightful cozy mystery that proves to be an excellent addition to an enjoyable series.
Msny thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Kitty's grandmother is more than concerned at Kitty facing danger more than once. Will Kitty leave the work of solving the current crimes to Matthew or will she investigate the crimes, proving her inate curiosity and skill when matters such as these are facing her.
Kitty's grandsmother's friend Mrs. Cravin is convalescing at Elm House and she is certain things are amiss. She asks Kitty and Matt for help as to sort out whatever could bw wrong. Whether direct questions towards Mrs. Craven, or due to insightful obsvertations, the pair prove more than adept as to working things out.
Per usual for Kitty, there are some people who do not like her questionss and interferrence, no matter how crafty she is in her investigatons. Suspicious activity is attempting to be hidden under a shroud of secrecy and lies. With an terrific pacing and engaging characters, including Kitty's grandmother and her maid, Dolly. this was a delightful cozy mystery that proves to be an excellent addition to an enjoyable series.
Msny thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 6, 2021
Murder at Elm House is the sixth instalment in the Miss Kitty Underhay Mysteries series. The story begins with a newspaper article in the Torbay Herald dated March 4th 1934, reminding the public not to approach the wanted fugitive Ezekiel Hammett who is yet to be caught after supposedly murdering Kitty's mother, Elowed, in June 1916. Elsewhere, Kitty's grandmother Mrs Treadwell takes a taxi to visit her best friend Millicent Craven who's convalescing at Elm House Nursing Home in Torquay where she's been staying since her minor foot operation. When she arrives home she tells Kitty's beau, army captain turned private investigator, Matthew Bryant that Millicent wants to see him along with Kitty as she feels there's something not quite right at the home. There are strange noises in the dead of night and people seem to be there one day and gone the next. Also, a previous resident Lady Wellings had died a few days earlier and apparently had no conditions that would cause her to pass away suddenly. The day before her death, her nephew Roderick Harmer visited her and asked for money to pay off his gambling debts. She refused him and was thinking of changing her will to disinherit him when she was snuffed out. Admittedly, it does seem very suspicious.
There had been no investigation into her passing either. Kitty and Matt decide that it does warrant an investigation and she really is appreciative of anything that can take her mind off the danger she could be in due to Ezekiel Hammett being on the loose and the threats he's made against her. Then Mrs Pearson who had been at Elm House to be treated for pneumonia, seemingly died after consuming food in the dining room. This occurs when the resident physician at the home, Doctor Marsh, is away and Doctor Carter who fills in for him discovers clues that point to murder. Also, coincidentally Mrs Pearson's son Leonard is friends with Roderick Harmer. Gradually, the investigation becomes more complex than amateur sleuth Kitty had imagined, but she is determined, with Matt's help, to get to the bottom of the sinister deaths. This is another compelling, absorbing and charming 1930s cosy mystery with plenty of gripping twists and turns in the plot and characters who feel like friends. Kitty and Matt's relationship continues to develop, and although I'm not a romance fan, I adore these two as a couple. It's fun, entertaining escapism and a well-written story with a lot of surprises in store regarding Elm House and its employees. Highly recommended.
There had been no investigation into her passing either. Kitty and Matt decide that it does warrant an investigation and she really is appreciative of anything that can take her mind off the danger she could be in due to Ezekiel Hammett being on the loose and the threats he's made against her. Then Mrs Pearson who had been at Elm House to be treated for pneumonia, seemingly died after consuming food in the dining room. This occurs when the resident physician at the home, Doctor Marsh, is away and Doctor Carter who fills in for him discovers clues that point to murder. Also, coincidentally Mrs Pearson's son Leonard is friends with Roderick Harmer. Gradually, the investigation becomes more complex than amateur sleuth Kitty had imagined, but she is determined, with Matt's help, to get to the bottom of the sinister deaths. This is another compelling, absorbing and charming 1930s cosy mystery with plenty of gripping twists and turns in the plot and characters who feel like friends. Kitty and Matt's relationship continues to develop, and although I'm not a romance fan, I adore these two as a couple. It's fun, entertaining escapism and a well-written story with a lot of surprises in store regarding Elm House and its employees. Highly recommended.
June 9, 2021
This is the second Miss Underhay Mystery I have read and I am really enjoying them. Helena Dixon has penned an enjoyable, entertaining Historical, Cozy Mystery series. I do plan to go back and read the ones I missed as I would like to know more about her meeting and relationship with Matt. In this story, a friend of her grandmother's, Mrs. Craven is concerned about what she considers, suspicious deaths at Elm House where she is recuperating after foot surgery. She is also sure that people are coming to the home in the night and leaving in the morning and doing past her room, but she is not sure where they are going or why they are there. She asks Matt, a private investigator, to see what he can find out, and of course Kitty is going to get involved. As well, the search for Ezekial Hammet, the man suspected of killing Kitty's mother is still going on and when both Matt's home and the Hotel that is owned by Kitty's family are broken into, they suspect ties to him. With everything happening, is Kitty putting herself or others in danger?
I really like Kitty, she is spunky, independent, smart and tenacious. I love that she is learning to drive, something that is not common for women in the 1930s. Her frustration as it seems to take so long was a hoot. Kitty and Matt make a wonderful couple and I hope their relationship becomes more serious as the series continues. Matt is also smart and does not treat Kitty as a helpless female. He is the one who bought her the car. He cares very much for her and encourages her to help in this investigation, but he worries for her safety. Mrs. Craven is also a great character. She is a staid, widow with some money. She has some old fashioned ideas about women, which made me smile as often as they made Kitty roll her eyes. The mystery was well written and plotted, with plenty of clues, suspicious characters and red herrings to keep you guessing. Will Matt be able to keep Kitty safe whilst they continue to investigate all that is happening? This is a great addition to the series, that kept me guessing, even though I was sure, several times, that I knew what was going on. I recommend this book and series to those who enjoy a good cozy mystery, especially if you like Historical ones. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I really like Kitty, she is spunky, independent, smart and tenacious. I love that she is learning to drive, something that is not common for women in the 1930s. Her frustration as it seems to take so long was a hoot. Kitty and Matt make a wonderful couple and I hope their relationship becomes more serious as the series continues. Matt is also smart and does not treat Kitty as a helpless female. He is the one who bought her the car. He cares very much for her and encourages her to help in this investigation, but he worries for her safety. Mrs. Craven is also a great character. She is a staid, widow with some money. She has some old fashioned ideas about women, which made me smile as often as they made Kitty roll her eyes. The mystery was well written and plotted, with plenty of clues, suspicious characters and red herrings to keep you guessing. Will Matt be able to keep Kitty safe whilst they continue to investigate all that is happening? This is a great addition to the series, that kept me guessing, even though I was sure, several times, that I knew what was going on. I recommend this book and series to those who enjoy a good cozy mystery, especially if you like Historical ones. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
June 14, 2021
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....
Murder at Elm House is the sixth installment in the Miss Kitty Underhay Mysteries and a great addition to the series. The author knows her characters perfectly and she’s having fun with them while making the reader feel like one more along Kitty and Matt in their investigations.
This time the mystery is focused on Elm House, a convalescent home where Mrs Craven is recovering from minor surgery. When she suspects some patient’s deaths are not due to natural causes she enlists the help of our favorite duo of investigators to find out the truth.
I just love Kitty’s journey. Since the first book in the series she’s proven herself independent and capable, not settling with what was expected of women in the 1930s. And now she’s learning to drive! I also like how the men in her life don’t try to put her down (I hate when that happens) and respect her and encourage her in all her exploits. Her relationship with Matt is one based on mutual respect and can’t wait for them to have that conversation that was left pending at the end of this novel.
Although it can be read as a standalone, the backstory running through the whole series plays a really important role this time so I suggest starting from the first book or at least a couple of books back to truly appreciate all the details and references in this one.
I love murder mysteries in a medical setting so this one was a delight. I did not see coming how both plot lines tied halfway through so, well done! I was not expecting that at all! I’m guessing the Hammets will still give Kitty and Matt several headaches.
The cast of supporting characters is also fully developed already and I’m so glad of the role Alice is taking as substitute sidekick when Matt is not available. I love Kitty’s relationship with Alice and the love and respect she shows her.
BTW, I could not be more in love with the covers in this series. Simply wonderful!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Murder at Elm House is the sixth installment in the Miss Kitty Underhay Mysteries and a great addition to the series. The author knows her characters perfectly and she’s having fun with them while making the reader feel like one more along Kitty and Matt in their investigations.
This time the mystery is focused on Elm House, a convalescent home where Mrs Craven is recovering from minor surgery. When she suspects some patient’s deaths are not due to natural causes she enlists the help of our favorite duo of investigators to find out the truth.
I just love Kitty’s journey. Since the first book in the series she’s proven herself independent and capable, not settling with what was expected of women in the 1930s. And now she’s learning to drive! I also like how the men in her life don’t try to put her down (I hate when that happens) and respect her and encourage her in all her exploits. Her relationship with Matt is one based on mutual respect and can’t wait for them to have that conversation that was left pending at the end of this novel.
Although it can be read as a standalone, the backstory running through the whole series plays a really important role this time so I suggest starting from the first book or at least a couple of books back to truly appreciate all the details and references in this one.
I love murder mysteries in a medical setting so this one was a delight. I did not see coming how both plot lines tied halfway through so, well done! I was not expecting that at all! I’m guessing the Hammets will still give Kitty and Matt several headaches.
The cast of supporting characters is also fully developed already and I’m so glad of the role Alice is taking as substitute sidekick when Matt is not available. I love Kitty’s relationship with Alice and the love and respect she shows her.
BTW, I could not be more in love with the covers in this series. Simply wonderful!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2021
Travel back to 1934 in this brilliant cosy murder mystery with Miss Kitty Underhay and her beau, ex-army captain and now private detective Matthew Bryant, endeavour to stay safe whilst striving to solve the mystery of residents suspiciously dying in the Elm House Nursing Home…..
Kitty lives and works in the Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth which is owned and run by her Grandmother. When Kitty and Matt go to visit her Gran’s friend, Mrs Craven, they never expected to find themselves in another murder mystery! Mrs Craven is suspicious about the deaths of fellow residents, worried about the strange noises she hears at night and wants Matt to secretly investigate . . . and so the mystery begins!
As in the previous books, Kitty finds herself in deadly danger repeatedly as the story progresses. There are plenty of clues, suspicious characters and red herrings to keep you guessing. Have the residents been murdered? If so, by whom, how and why? Just who is visiting the Home at night? With burglaries, a bag snatcher and more threats, can Matt help keep Kitty safe whilst they continue to investigate the strange occurences?
This is a great addition to the series, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing in this relaxing but intriguing read. I am thoroughly enjoying reading this series but suspect you could still enjoy this story even if you’ve missed the earlier books. I look forward to reading more of Kitty and Matt’s investigations in future!
Thank you to Bokouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Kitty lives and works in the Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth which is owned and run by her Grandmother. When Kitty and Matt go to visit her Gran’s friend, Mrs Craven, they never expected to find themselves in another murder mystery! Mrs Craven is suspicious about the deaths of fellow residents, worried about the strange noises she hears at night and wants Matt to secretly investigate . . . and so the mystery begins!
As in the previous books, Kitty finds herself in deadly danger repeatedly as the story progresses. There are plenty of clues, suspicious characters and red herrings to keep you guessing. Have the residents been murdered? If so, by whom, how and why? Just who is visiting the Home at night? With burglaries, a bag snatcher and more threats, can Matt help keep Kitty safe whilst they continue to investigate the strange occurences?
This is a great addition to the series, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing in this relaxing but intriguing read. I am thoroughly enjoying reading this series but suspect you could still enjoy this story even if you’ve missed the earlier books. I look forward to reading more of Kitty and Matt’s investigations in future!
Thank you to Bokouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
June 6, 2021
On the recommendation of my mum, I picked up “Murder at Elm House” by Helena Dixon and what a delight! This is book six of the Miss Underhay series but I connected immediately with the characters and the story. Whilst I look forward to reading the previous novels, it isn’t necessary to enjoy this adventure. With witty banter and a fast-paced mystery, I eagerly followed Kitty as she tries to determine if her grandmother’s friend is just being paranoid or if there is a more sinister plot afoot at the local carehome.
In addition, Kitty and her boyfriend, Matt, are still trying to catch the murderer from the mystery which began Kitty’s foray into investigation in the first place. Soon Kitty is being pursued by someone with lethal intent and she’s unclear which case is the reason for the attention.
I loved it from the first page to the last. If you enjoy a cosy mystery set in 1930s England, this one is definitely for you! Highly recommended and 5 out of 5 on the enJOYment scale…thanks Mum!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Merged review:
On the recommendation of my mum, I picked up “Murder at Elm House” by Helena Dixon and what a delight! This is book six of the Miss Underhay series but I connected immediately with the characters and the story. Whilst I look forward to reading the previous novels, it isn’t necessary to enjoy this adventure. With witty banter and a fast-paced mystery, I eagerly followed Kitty as she tries to determine if her grandmother’s friend is just being paranoid or if there is a more sinister plot afoot at the local carehome.
In addition, Kitty and her boyfriend, Matt, are still trying to catch the murderer from the mystery which began Kitty’s foray into investigation in the first place. Soon Kitty is being pursued by someone with lethal intent and she’s unclear which case is the reason for the attention.
I loved it from the first page to the last. If you enjoy a cosy mystery set in 1930s England, this one is definitely for you! Highly recommended and 5 out of 5 on the enJOYment scale…thanks Mum!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In addition, Kitty and her boyfriend, Matt, are still trying to catch the murderer from the mystery which began Kitty’s foray into investigation in the first place. Soon Kitty is being pursued by someone with lethal intent and she’s unclear which case is the reason for the attention.
I loved it from the first page to the last. If you enjoy a cosy mystery set in 1930s England, this one is definitely for you! Highly recommended and 5 out of 5 on the enJOYment scale…thanks Mum!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Merged review:
On the recommendation of my mum, I picked up “Murder at Elm House” by Helena Dixon and what a delight! This is book six of the Miss Underhay series but I connected immediately with the characters and the story. Whilst I look forward to reading the previous novels, it isn’t necessary to enjoy this adventure. With witty banter and a fast-paced mystery, I eagerly followed Kitty as she tries to determine if her grandmother’s friend is just being paranoid or if there is a more sinister plot afoot at the local carehome.
In addition, Kitty and her boyfriend, Matt, are still trying to catch the murderer from the mystery which began Kitty’s foray into investigation in the first place. Soon Kitty is being pursued by someone with lethal intent and she’s unclear which case is the reason for the attention.
I loved it from the first page to the last. If you enjoy a cosy mystery set in 1930s England, this one is definitely for you! Highly recommended and 5 out of 5 on the enJOYment scale…thanks Mum!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 1, 2021
Spring of 1934 & accidental amateur sleuth Kitty Underhay is being escorted by ex-army captain Matthew Bryant on an errand of mercy, as she takes a basket of grapes to her nemesis Mrs Craven, who is recuperating from a recent operation. But their arrival at Elm House Nursing Home coincides with the mysterious death of Lady Wellings, Mrs Craven’ suspects that Lady Wellings was poisoned, Kitty decides to look into the case herself. And when another invalid, the gentle Mrs Pearson, collapses fatally in the breakfast room, it seems her suspicions are well-founded. then the nurse Eloise Hibbert hints at sinister goings on, Kitty arranges to meet her away from the home to uncover how deep the treachery lies. However, before she can make the rendezvous, Eloise meets an unfortunate end falling from the top of the building. Meanwhile, Matt has been following an entirely different trail of evidence, and what he finds out chills him to the bone.
This is the sixth book in the series & is easily read on its own but there is the on going hunt for the murderer of Kitty's mother & also the developing romance between Matthew & Kitty. Another well written engrossing read, there are twists and turns as well as surprises surrounding Elm House & its staff. The characters have depth & I feel like I’m sitting down with old friends. This book sees Kitty learning to drive & then having the freedom not to rely on Mr Potter’s taxi. Alice once again features & now has herself a beauA very enjoyed read which I thoroughly enjoyed & I look forward to more
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the sixth book in the series & is easily read on its own but there is the on going hunt for the murderer of Kitty's mother & also the developing romance between Matthew & Kitty. Another well written engrossing read, there are twists and turns as well as surprises surrounding Elm House & its staff. The characters have depth & I feel like I’m sitting down with old friends. This book sees Kitty learning to drive & then having the freedom not to rely on Mr Potter’s taxi. Alice once again features & now has herself a beauA very enjoyed read which I thoroughly enjoyed & I look forward to more
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 8, 2021
Helena Dixon's Murder at Elm House is book six in the series, but my second as I jumped into it at book five. Cozy mysteries are a definite favourite of mine and the 1930s setting definitely adds to its allure. Kitty and Matthew are great people and have a lovely, flourishing relationship. The storyline surrounding Kitty's mother is a bonus in an already compelling and rewarding tale. I am thrilled that I have the first four books in the series to catch up on and I'm also happily anticipating the seventh one.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
June 10, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Murder At Elm House' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helena Dixon, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th June 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the sixth book in the 'Miss Underhay' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Murder On The Dance Floor' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.' I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Vanessa and if this is as good as 'Murder On The Dance Floor' it is sure to be a good read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a newsclip and 20 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Kitty Underhay and Captain Matthew Bryant. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and quite fast paced. There was the main storyline based on the deaths at Elm House but you also had the side storyline of the search for Ezekiel. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect who was doing what or why so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer/perp quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!! A fun, addictive, unputdownable cozy crime mystery.
I am really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. The only fault I did find is that sometimes the characters first names were used and at other times their surnames, as there are quite a few characters this did cause me some confusion at times. I especially enjoyed getting to know Matt, Alice and Dolly more. However, I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Murder Mystery and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
255 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderAtElmHouse #Bookouture #HelenaDixon #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@HelenaDixon @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Murder At Elm House' by Helena Dixon.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Helena Dixon, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th June 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author. It is also the sixth book in the 'Miss Underhay' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Murder On The Dance Floor' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Lee Strauss.' I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Vanessa and if this is as good as 'Murder On The Dance Floor' it is sure to be a good read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a newsclip and 20 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Devon, UK 🇬🇧 . I always enjoy when books are set in the UK as I'm from Wales and have sometimes visited areas mentioned in the book. This makes it easier to picture where the scenes are set at times. I have in fact visited Devon on many occasions including this year so am looking forward to possibly recognising name places.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Kitty Underhay and Captain Matthew Bryant. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
This book was very well written and I do believe some research went into it as everything linked correctly in with the era it was set in. It is a real bug bear for me when I read a historical novel and the author hasn't done their research and gets basic information mixed up so well done Helena!! It was very well written and I found the synopsis and the cover fitted the storyline perfectly, The descriptions were great and it really felt as if I was in the story.
The storyline was very interesting and quite fast paced. There was the main storyline based on the deaths at Elm House but you also had the side storyline of the search for Ezekiel. I really enjoyed that it was set in the past and the storyline really suited that. It really is a nice cozy mystery that will keep you guessing throughout. At no point did I suspect who was doing what or why so a huge well done there Helena!!! I have read many a mystery and find that I am working out the killer/perp quicker every time and there's nothing worse than working out who did what when your need even half way through a book. Not only is this quite a suspense and action filled mystery but there was just the right amount of quirkiness, laughter and romance to give it a nice mix!!! A fun, addictive, unputdownable cozy crime mystery.
I am really invested in the characters and really enjoyed Kitty and her fantastic and quirky personality!!! In fact all of the characters had their own individual personalities which worked really well with each other. The only fault I did find is that sometimes the characters first names were used and at other times their surnames, as there are quite a few characters this did cause me some confusion at times. I especially enjoyed getting to know Matt, Alice and Dolly more. However, I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next 'episode' of Miss Underhay's adventures which I'm sure will be just as exciting as this one!!
Overall a perfect mix of mystery, crime, romance, laughter and quirkiness which kept me turning the pages late at night!!
Genres covered in this novel include Historical, Cozy Mystery, Murder Mystery and Crime among others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as anyone looking for a nice easy mystery to read while curled up in front of the fire.
255 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MurderAtElmHouse #Bookouture #HelenaDixon #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@HelenaDixon @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
January 16, 2023
This is the fourth entry in the author’s Miss Underhay mysteries, set in 1934 and featuring Kitty Underhay, who manages her grandmother’s hotel in Dartmouth. The book opens with Kitty still pursuing the over-arching mystery of the series, the disappearance of her mother years earlier. Kitty is now getting threatening notes warning her to back off from the investigation.
But as usual, there’s a new, standalone mystery in this book as well, this time involving an annoying friend of Kitty’s grandmother. Mrs. Craven has pestered Kitty and her beau – and co-investigator – Matt in their previous investigations. This time Mrs. Craven is recovering from an operation in a nursing home and consults with Kitty and Matt about something she’s discovered there. She believes there are murders happening in the nursing home.
The author creates a real atmosphere of over-riding danger. Even on seemingly harmless outings for tea or to the cinema, if feels as if something bad might happen. I soon began to worry about the safety of the residents and staff at the nursing home (well, not all of the staff, because some seemed very suspicious).
One of the things I’ve enjoyed about this series is that while each book contains a new mystery, there’s also continuity and development from the previous book. It may seem trivial but as this book begins we learn that Matt has recently gifted her with a red sports car, and Kitty is getting ready for her first lesson with a local man. Why does this matter? Matt has been slowly – very slowly – adjusting to Kitty’s need for independence, and her need to continue investigating. When Kitty expressed an interest in driving in the last book, Matt’s initial reaction was to reassure Kitty that he could take her anywhere on his motorcycle, or that there was always a local taxi.
We also see some development in other characters in the series. Alice, Kitty’s sometime personal maid may soon have a beau of her own, as might Mrs. Craven! We also get to meet Alice’s younger sister Dolly, who is very bright. Dolly and Alice prove to be fun, brave, smart companions to Kitty on several occasions. I hope we get to see more of Dolly and Alice in future entries in the series.
Overall, I enjoyed Kitty’s latest adventures, and look forward to reading the next book in the series. I would give this a B, so four stars here.
But as usual, there’s a new, standalone mystery in this book as well, this time involving an annoying friend of Kitty’s grandmother. Mrs. Craven has pestered Kitty and her beau – and co-investigator – Matt in their previous investigations. This time Mrs. Craven is recovering from an operation in a nursing home and consults with Kitty and Matt about something she’s discovered there. She believes there are murders happening in the nursing home.
The author creates a real atmosphere of over-riding danger. Even on seemingly harmless outings for tea or to the cinema, if feels as if something bad might happen. I soon began to worry about the safety of the residents and staff at the nursing home (well, not all of the staff, because some seemed very suspicious).
One of the things I’ve enjoyed about this series is that while each book contains a new mystery, there’s also continuity and development from the previous book. It may seem trivial but as this book begins we learn that Matt has recently gifted her with a red sports car, and Kitty is getting ready for her first lesson with a local man. Why does this matter? Matt has been slowly – very slowly – adjusting to Kitty’s need for independence, and her need to continue investigating. When Kitty expressed an interest in driving in the last book, Matt’s initial reaction was to reassure Kitty that he could take her anywhere on his motorcycle, or that there was always a local taxi.
We also see some development in other characters in the series. Alice, Kitty’s sometime personal maid may soon have a beau of her own, as might Mrs. Craven! We also get to meet Alice’s younger sister Dolly, who is very bright. Dolly and Alice prove to be fun, brave, smart companions to Kitty on several occasions. I hope we get to see more of Dolly and Alice in future entries in the series.
Overall, I enjoyed Kitty’s latest adventures, and look forward to reading the next book in the series. I would give this a B, so four stars here.
June 7, 2021
Murder at Elm House is the sixth book in the Kitty Underhay mystery series, it can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading at least the previous book Murder In The Bell Tower, as some of the storyline carries over.
Mrs Craven, a friend of Kitty's grandmother, is recovering after a minor operation at Elm House. She calls in both Matthew and Kitty after she suspects that there's something odd going on, resulting in the deaths of some of the patients. As they investigate, they become aware that there could be something bigger going on than just the death of patients.
If you don't know this series, they're set around the golden age of crime fiction in the 1930s and always give me classic crime vibes while remaining fresh and interesting to read.
I love sleuths Matthew and Kitty, they're such a cute couple and compliment each other nicely. There was plenty of peril for both throughout the novel, with break-ins and attempts on their lives. Not to mention Kitty taking the leap to become a lady motorist, something that probably would have been frowned upon back in those days.
I usually have an inkling when it comes to cozy mysteries about the whodunnit quite early on but not with this novel, I can say I didn't guess how it was going to end at all!
Murder at Elm House is a great addition to this series and I can't wait to read more!
Mrs Craven, a friend of Kitty's grandmother, is recovering after a minor operation at Elm House. She calls in both Matthew and Kitty after she suspects that there's something odd going on, resulting in the deaths of some of the patients. As they investigate, they become aware that there could be something bigger going on than just the death of patients.
If you don't know this series, they're set around the golden age of crime fiction in the 1930s and always give me classic crime vibes while remaining fresh and interesting to read.
I love sleuths Matthew and Kitty, they're such a cute couple and compliment each other nicely. There was plenty of peril for both throughout the novel, with break-ins and attempts on their lives. Not to mention Kitty taking the leap to become a lady motorist, something that probably would have been frowned upon back in those days.
I usually have an inkling when it comes to cozy mysteries about the whodunnit quite early on but not with this novel, I can say I didn't guess how it was going to end at all!
Murder at Elm House is a great addition to this series and I can't wait to read more!
June 25, 2021
4.5 Stars
This is the sixth book in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon.
All the action in this new Kitty Underhay book centers around some hinky stuff occurring at a nursing home and Kitty gets targeted as a result of her innocent snooping. This book was fun and sweet just like all the books in this series are. In fact there are some interesting scenes where Kitty gets driving lessons in order to be more independent and not have all the males around her chauffeur her around everywhere. Kitty just took it all in stride even when she has an unfortunate accident that sends her new shiny red car into the shop.
Lots of exciting aspects of this book give the plot a jolt of fun. The mystery is spot on and the relationships are what make this book so good. Just an exciting read which once again is a winner in my book.
One little niggle, though. I was hoping for more of a connection between Kitty and Matt but I almost felt like they lost some ground with each other in some way. They get along well but I didn’t feel like their relationship moved forward. Other than that, it is great stuff.
If you love a good historical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read series for sure!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
This is the sixth book in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon.
All the action in this new Kitty Underhay book centers around some hinky stuff occurring at a nursing home and Kitty gets targeted as a result of her innocent snooping. This book was fun and sweet just like all the books in this series are. In fact there are some interesting scenes where Kitty gets driving lessons in order to be more independent and not have all the males around her chauffeur her around everywhere. Kitty just took it all in stride even when she has an unfortunate accident that sends her new shiny red car into the shop.
Lots of exciting aspects of this book give the plot a jolt of fun. The mystery is spot on and the relationships are what make this book so good. Just an exciting read which once again is a winner in my book.
One little niggle, though. I was hoping for more of a connection between Kitty and Matt but I almost felt like they lost some ground with each other in some way. They get along well but I didn’t feel like their relationship moved forward. Other than that, it is great stuff.
If you love a good historical cozy mystery, definitely check this one out. Great new must read series for sure!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title. Opinions are completely my own.
June 6, 2021
In this 6th installment, Kitty Underhay and her paramour, Captain Matthew Bryant, are investigating nefarious dealings and murder at an upscale care facility - -the Elm House Nursing Home. Residents there are dying under mysterious circumstances even though most were simply recuperating from minor ailments. In addition, Kitty continues to search for information about her mother's death and the man she holds responsible.
I enjoy this series as a break from the grisly crime thrillers I tend to read. The details about the time period (1934) and the local color of the hotel and the little seaside town are comforting in their simplicity and the social mores of that period in history. Always a quick read, it allows a brief escape with enough depth to the plot to keep me interested. Looking forward to #7.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
I enjoy this series as a break from the grisly crime thrillers I tend to read. The details about the time period (1934) and the local color of the hotel and the little seaside town are comforting in their simplicity and the social mores of that period in history. Always a quick read, it allows a brief escape with enough depth to the plot to keep me interested. Looking forward to #7.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
December 21, 2022
Still unable to find Hammett.
Kitty Underhay and her beau Captain Bryant just can’t get enough of investigating murders. On this sixth mystery about Miss Kitty, she and Matt are drawn into an investigation by Mrs. Craven . After her own injuries, Mrs. Craven goes to convalesce at Elm House. However, she feels that strange things are happening when two residents are found dead.
Of course, Matt and Kitty are all to happy to assist. Herein lies the beginning of our story.
If you’ve enjoyed reading the first five books in this series as much as I have, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one.
Kitty Underhay and her beau Captain Bryant just can’t get enough of investigating murders. On this sixth mystery about Miss Kitty, she and Matt are drawn into an investigation by Mrs. Craven . After her own injuries, Mrs. Craven goes to convalesce at Elm House. However, she feels that strange things are happening when two residents are found dead.
Of course, Matt and Kitty are all to happy to assist. Herein lies the beginning of our story.
If you’ve enjoyed reading the first five books in this series as much as I have, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one.
May 23, 2021
If there is one thing you can rely on it is the fact that Kitty Underhay, the main protagonist in these stories is that she isn’t far from a dead body or two! Her Grandmother implores her to stay out of trouble and stick to running The Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth, but Kitty now with ability to drive can go further afield now.
In this the sixth instalment, Kitty finds herself visiting Mrs Craven, one of her grandmothers friends and someone who always has their nose into everyone’s business. Kitty finds her quite a challenge and her acid tongue can be quite cutting. Recuperating from an operation at Elm House, Mrs Craven is convinced that something untoward is going on.
There are a lot of comings and goings at strange times of the night and whilst residents should be recuperating there seems to be a high amount of deaths. Kitty cannot help but investigate especially when it seems her attempt to find out what happened to her mother interests many people and puts her forefront of some rather unsavoury characters.
All of these threads that Kitty is investigating along with private investigator, Matt Bryant, who Kitty is now officially stepping out with seems all rather random and unrelated, but as the story goes one the body count gets higher and it seems that perhaps what Kitty was looking for was closer than she first thought.
Still featuring Alice, Kitty’s faithful employee at the hotel and one of my favourite characters for her forthrightness when it comes to Kitty’s behaviour coupled with her unwavering loyalty as well, they make an interesting duo when they investigate together. Dolly, Alice’s sister is working at Elm House and seems she might have innocently seen some of the answers to many of the questions that Kitty and Matt have. I do hope we get to see more of Alice and Dolly in future novels.
As the story reaches it conclusion, of course there are many questions answered, but still Kitty is seeking the truth about her mother and it looks like we might need to wait a bit longer for that one. And as for the fordable Mrs Craven, perhaps the events at Elm House might mellow her? I of course like everyone else will have to wait and see.
This is a delightful series of cosy mysteries set in Dartmouth, Devon in the mid Nineteen Thirties, full of humour, warmth and a bit of romance amongst the body count and the scrapes that Kitty and Matt find themselves in. I recommend you start at the beginning and catch me up!
In this the sixth instalment, Kitty finds herself visiting Mrs Craven, one of her grandmothers friends and someone who always has their nose into everyone’s business. Kitty finds her quite a challenge and her acid tongue can be quite cutting. Recuperating from an operation at Elm House, Mrs Craven is convinced that something untoward is going on.
There are a lot of comings and goings at strange times of the night and whilst residents should be recuperating there seems to be a high amount of deaths. Kitty cannot help but investigate especially when it seems her attempt to find out what happened to her mother interests many people and puts her forefront of some rather unsavoury characters.
All of these threads that Kitty is investigating along with private investigator, Matt Bryant, who Kitty is now officially stepping out with seems all rather random and unrelated, but as the story goes one the body count gets higher and it seems that perhaps what Kitty was looking for was closer than she first thought.
Still featuring Alice, Kitty’s faithful employee at the hotel and one of my favourite characters for her forthrightness when it comes to Kitty’s behaviour coupled with her unwavering loyalty as well, they make an interesting duo when they investigate together. Dolly, Alice’s sister is working at Elm House and seems she might have innocently seen some of the answers to many of the questions that Kitty and Matt have. I do hope we get to see more of Alice and Dolly in future novels.
As the story reaches it conclusion, of course there are many questions answered, but still Kitty is seeking the truth about her mother and it looks like we might need to wait a bit longer for that one. And as for the fordable Mrs Craven, perhaps the events at Elm House might mellow her? I of course like everyone else will have to wait and see.
This is a delightful series of cosy mysteries set in Dartmouth, Devon in the mid Nineteen Thirties, full of humour, warmth and a bit of romance amongst the body count and the scrapes that Kitty and Matt find themselves in. I recommend you start at the beginning and catch me up!
January 8, 2026
So good! Helena Dixon kept me guessing
in this one! I appreciate the gradual development of Matt & Kitty's relationship. It is so sweet and unhurried. This is partially because they can hardly plan a romantic date without being interrupted by some wild, dangerous thing happening, haha!
It was fun how they tackled some of the baddies together in this one. I am so excited to read the next book in this delightful, cozy mystery series!
👌🏻 📚
in this one! I appreciate the gradual development of Matt & Kitty's relationship. It is so sweet and unhurried. This is partially because they can hardly plan a romantic date without being interrupted by some wild, dangerous thing happening, haha!
It was fun how they tackled some of the baddies together in this one. I am so excited to read the next book in this delightful, cozy mystery series!
👌🏻 📚
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2021
Witty and wonderful. Loved this engaging mystery. This was a great read that contained all the elements I look for in a story - it was absorbing, transporting, completely and utterly addictive. Highly recommend this one.
June 7, 2021
The story takes a dangerous turn as Kitty and Matt are hot on the trail of the Hammets. It's fun to see Kitty and Matt work a case together where he is supportive of her efforts. The mystery is complicated and not easily solved. If you are looking for some adventure this summer, then be sure to pick up this book. Read my full review at Girl Who Reads.
June 27, 2021
Very interesting, carefully crafted and plotted, set in Exeter, England, in the swifty changing times between the wars, this series is stylish and smart.
July 21, 2021
I generally adore this series of mysteries, especially because Dixon is so brilliant with the tone and details of 1930s Britain. However, this was probably the weakest entry yet, which is especially sad as I thought the previous novel was one of the strongest.
The problem is that the majority of this novel is filled with trying to solve the over-arching mystery of what happened to Kitty’s mother twenty years prior. It’s been simmering along for several books now, and it finally erupted here. So the title murder in this book gets shortchanged with few clues, few suspects, and a very easy resolution. In addition, this cold case mystery isn’t interesting to me, and I think it’s implausible that so many new clues would be emerging twenty years later. I may not have minded so much if this longer mystery was finally solved and put to rest, but, unfortunately, it seems it will continue to thwart the potential of other future entries.
The problem is that the majority of this novel is filled with trying to solve the over-arching mystery of what happened to Kitty’s mother twenty years prior. It’s been simmering along for several books now, and it finally erupted here. So the title murder in this book gets shortchanged with few clues, few suspects, and a very easy resolution. In addition, this cold case mystery isn’t interesting to me, and I think it’s implausible that so many new clues would be emerging twenty years later. I may not have minded so much if this longer mystery was finally solved and put to rest, but, unfortunately, it seems it will continue to thwart the potential of other future entries.
July 12, 2021
I'm a big fan of this series, and number 6 doesn't disappoint.
Kitty's grandmother's friend, Mrs Craven, is in a convalescent home after a recent operation, and as the residents and staff start to die one by one she calls upon Kitty and her beau, Matthew Bryant, to investigate. As they delve deeper, they uncover things that are much closer to home than they could have imagined. How can the man suspected of killing her mother, still on the run and evading police capture along with his sister, be involved? And is Kitty's own life at risk?
Having read all of the books I'm enjoying the developing arc of the background story of Kitty's past, as well as the tasty murders in each of the books. Slightly darker in tone than other similar series around at the moment, and all the better for that, I definitely recommend this series to fans of the classic crime mystery.
Kitty's grandmother's friend, Mrs Craven, is in a convalescent home after a recent operation, and as the residents and staff start to die one by one she calls upon Kitty and her beau, Matthew Bryant, to investigate. As they delve deeper, they uncover things that are much closer to home than they could have imagined. How can the man suspected of killing her mother, still on the run and evading police capture along with his sister, be involved? And is Kitty's own life at risk?
Having read all of the books I'm enjoying the developing arc of the background story of Kitty's past, as well as the tasty murders in each of the books. Slightly darker in tone than other similar series around at the moment, and all the better for that, I definitely recommend this series to fans of the classic crime mystery.
May 3, 2021
Mrs. Craven, Kitty’s grandmother best friend, is at Elm House Nursing Home recuperating from surgery, and asks Kitty and Matthew Bryant to investigate some strange goings-on. Is it boredom or is there really weird things going on? When one patient dies unexpectedly during breakfast it seem Mrs. Craven is right. And what is happening with the hunt for Ezekiel Hammett?
Another fun instalment in the Miss Underhay Mysteries, and fun cozy to curl up with.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an early read in exchange for my opinion.
Another fun instalment in the Miss Underhay Mysteries, and fun cozy to curl up with.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for an early read in exchange for my opinion.
May 17, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Murder at Elm House" in exchange for my honest review.
This was book #6 in the Miss Underhay series and the series which is brilliant, just gets even better and better with each book. The story begins with a copy of the Torbay Herald dated March 4th, 1934. It details Ezekiel Hammet a dangerous criminal still being at large after being suspected of killing his brother Denzil in Exeter. As well as the suspicious disappearance of Mrs. Elowed Underhay in June 1916, whose remains were only recently recovered in November 1933.
Our favourite characters are once again in the book. Miss Kitty Underhay from the Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth. In the last story Kitty spent Christmas with her aunt and uncle at Enderley Hall where she received a threatening note signed "EH". Captain Matthew Bryant, a private investigator who previously worked for various government departments is officially Kitty's beau. Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell's best friend Millicent Craven is a huge character in this story because it is her needing to recuperate from a minor operation that sends her to Elm House.
Mrs. Craven sends for Matt because she feels that something is just not right at Elm House. She hears strange noises at night. People appear and then disappear. Then there are the deaths. Perfectly healthy people end up dead with no investigation into what happened to them.
Kitty's maid Alice Miller is in this story as is her younger sister Dolly who is working at Elm House as a maid. Robert Potter who is sweet on Alice returns in this story to teach Kitty how to drive her Christmas present from Matt.
As in previous books there is a lot of strange things happening. What do a break-in at Matt's house, the theft of Kitty's handbag and an attempted raid at the hotel have to do with each other. The box that Father Lamb gave Kitty after the death of Jack Dawkin is pivotal in this story as well. Kitty receives another threatening note signed "EH" at the hotel. Could the reward money that Kitty has promised for information on Ezekiel Hammett have anything to do with the strange happenings surrounding Kitty and her friends.
When a resident collapses at Elm House while Doctor Marsh is away things start to unravel. Doctor Carter is called in and he finds the death suspicious. How are the deaths at Elm House, a possible suicide and drugs linked? There are officers from Scotland Yard with Inspector Greville. Which case are they connected with?
As in previous books Kitty places herself in harms way not once, not twice, but several times earning her several lectures from her grandmother. Kitty is a thoroughly modern character for the time period she is in. This is one of the best series out there, it does need to be read in order, so that you understand the relationships that the author has created. I can't wait to see what adventures Kitty and Matt get into next time.
This was book #6 in the Miss Underhay series and the series which is brilliant, just gets even better and better with each book. The story begins with a copy of the Torbay Herald dated March 4th, 1934. It details Ezekiel Hammet a dangerous criminal still being at large after being suspected of killing his brother Denzil in Exeter. As well as the suspicious disappearance of Mrs. Elowed Underhay in June 1916, whose remains were only recently recovered in November 1933.
Our favourite characters are once again in the book. Miss Kitty Underhay from the Dolphin Hotel in Dartmouth. In the last story Kitty spent Christmas with her aunt and uncle at Enderley Hall where she received a threatening note signed "EH". Captain Matthew Bryant, a private investigator who previously worked for various government departments is officially Kitty's beau. Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell's best friend Millicent Craven is a huge character in this story because it is her needing to recuperate from a minor operation that sends her to Elm House.
Mrs. Craven sends for Matt because she feels that something is just not right at Elm House. She hears strange noises at night. People appear and then disappear. Then there are the deaths. Perfectly healthy people end up dead with no investigation into what happened to them.
Kitty's maid Alice Miller is in this story as is her younger sister Dolly who is working at Elm House as a maid. Robert Potter who is sweet on Alice returns in this story to teach Kitty how to drive her Christmas present from Matt.
As in previous books there is a lot of strange things happening. What do a break-in at Matt's house, the theft of Kitty's handbag and an attempted raid at the hotel have to do with each other. The box that Father Lamb gave Kitty after the death of Jack Dawkin is pivotal in this story as well. Kitty receives another threatening note signed "EH" at the hotel. Could the reward money that Kitty has promised for information on Ezekiel Hammett have anything to do with the strange happenings surrounding Kitty and her friends.
When a resident collapses at Elm House while Doctor Marsh is away things start to unravel. Doctor Carter is called in and he finds the death suspicious. How are the deaths at Elm House, a possible suicide and drugs linked? There are officers from Scotland Yard with Inspector Greville. Which case are they connected with?
As in previous books Kitty places herself in harms way not once, not twice, but several times earning her several lectures from her grandmother. Kitty is a thoroughly modern character for the time period she is in. This is one of the best series out there, it does need to be read in order, so that you understand the relationships that the author has created. I can't wait to see what adventures Kitty and Matt get into next time.
June 22, 2025
A convalescent home seems an unlikely setting for illegal goings-on but that’s exactly the location of ‘Murder at Elm House’ by Helena Dixon. This, the sixth of the 1930s Miss Underhay cosy mysteries, starts immediately where the previous book, ‘Murder in the Belltower,’ ended.
Kitty Underhay and her beau, private detective Captain Matthew Bryant, are reluctant visitors to the nursing home in Torquay, sent there by Kitty’s grandmother to visit her friend Mrs Craven. This indomitable lady, who has been involved in some of Kitty’s previous detectoring, is recovering at Elm House after an operation. But she insists something is ‘not quite right.’ Strange noises in the night, people appearing and disappearing, and deaths. Not the usual sort of deaths expected in a convalescent home. After the death of another patient, one of the nurses asks Kitty to meet her the next day at a tea room in Torquay to discuss the happenings, but that night Nurse Hibbert falls from the roof and dies.
Long-running story threads are picked up again in ‘Murder at Elm House.’ Kitty and Matt’s romance advances slowly and satisfactorily and she is now having driving lessons in her small red Morris Tourer. But all is not happy. The man she suspects of murdering her mother Elowed in 1916 has been seen in Dartmouth, and she has received an anonymous threatening note.
The threat level in this book is the highest yet, with fights and also guns making an appearance. Despite being banned by her grandmother from visiting Elm House, Kitty is not one to sit quietly by while others solve crime. ‘Murder at Elm House’ combines two crime stories; the deaths and strange events at the nursing home, and the longer-running story of Ezekiel Hammett and his attempts to silence Kitty once and for all.
I raced through this book, finishing it in 24 hours. The stakes are higher, the risks are riskier. What’s going to happen in the next instalment of the Miss Underhay mysteries? This book has more of danger and a darker tone. The cast of characters is satisfyingly familiar with the addition of two younger members who get involved in the action. Dolly Miller – younger sister of Alice, housemaid at the Dolphin – has just started a new job at Elm House, and taxi driver and Kitty’s driving instructor Robert Potter. Both prove themselves worthy of surveillance, lock-breaking and being in the right place at the right time.
An easy-to-read series. Opening a new book feels like slipping on a comfortable pair of slippers and settling down with a mug of cocoa. Excellent.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
Kitty Underhay and her beau, private detective Captain Matthew Bryant, are reluctant visitors to the nursing home in Torquay, sent there by Kitty’s grandmother to visit her friend Mrs Craven. This indomitable lady, who has been involved in some of Kitty’s previous detectoring, is recovering at Elm House after an operation. But she insists something is ‘not quite right.’ Strange noises in the night, people appearing and disappearing, and deaths. Not the usual sort of deaths expected in a convalescent home. After the death of another patient, one of the nurses asks Kitty to meet her the next day at a tea room in Torquay to discuss the happenings, but that night Nurse Hibbert falls from the roof and dies.
Long-running story threads are picked up again in ‘Murder at Elm House.’ Kitty and Matt’s romance advances slowly and satisfactorily and she is now having driving lessons in her small red Morris Tourer. But all is not happy. The man she suspects of murdering her mother Elowed in 1916 has been seen in Dartmouth, and she has received an anonymous threatening note.
The threat level in this book is the highest yet, with fights and also guns making an appearance. Despite being banned by her grandmother from visiting Elm House, Kitty is not one to sit quietly by while others solve crime. ‘Murder at Elm House’ combines two crime stories; the deaths and strange events at the nursing home, and the longer-running story of Ezekiel Hammett and his attempts to silence Kitty once and for all.
I raced through this book, finishing it in 24 hours. The stakes are higher, the risks are riskier. What’s going to happen in the next instalment of the Miss Underhay mysteries? This book has more of danger and a darker tone. The cast of characters is satisfyingly familiar with the addition of two younger members who get involved in the action. Dolly Miller – younger sister of Alice, housemaid at the Dolphin – has just started a new job at Elm House, and taxi driver and Kitty’s driving instructor Robert Potter. Both prove themselves worthy of surveillance, lock-breaking and being in the right place at the right time.
An easy-to-read series. Opening a new book feels like slipping on a comfortable pair of slippers and settling down with a mug of cocoa. Excellent.
Read more of my book reviews at http://www.sandradanby.com/book-revie...
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