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Lady Eleanor Swift #2
Death at the Dance
A masked ball, a dead body, a missing diamond necklace and a suspicious silver candlestick? Sounds like a case for Lady Eleanor Swift!
England, 1920. Lady Eleanor Swift, adventurer extraordinaire and reluctant amateur detective, is taking a break from sleuthing. She’s got much bigger Eleanor has two left feet, nothing to wear and she’s expected at the masked ball at the local manor. Her new beau Lance Langham is the host, so she needs to dazzle.
Surrounded by partygoers with painted faces, pirates, priests and enough feathers to drown an ostrich, Eleanor searches for a familiar face. As she follows a familiar pair of long legs up a grand staircase, she’s sure she’s on Lance’s trail. But she opens the door on a dreadful Lance standing over a dead Colonel Puddifoot, brandishing a silver candlestick, the family safe wide open and empty.
Moments later, the police burst in and arrest Lance for murder, diamond theft and a spate of similar burglaries. But Eleanor is convinced her love didn’t do it, and with him locked up in prison, she knows she needs to clear his name.
Something Lance lets slip about his pals convinces Eleanor the answer lies close to home. Accompanied by her faithful sidekick Gladstone the bulldog, she begins with Lance’s friends - a set of fast driving, even faster drinking, high-society types with a taste for mischief. But after they start getting picked off in circumstances that look a lot like murder, Eleanor is in a race against time to clear Lance’s name and avoid another brush with death....
Fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Downton Abbey will adore this tremendously fun cozy whodunnit, full of mystery, murder and intrigue!
England, 1920. Lady Eleanor Swift, adventurer extraordinaire and reluctant amateur detective, is taking a break from sleuthing. She’s got much bigger Eleanor has two left feet, nothing to wear and she’s expected at the masked ball at the local manor. Her new beau Lance Langham is the host, so she needs to dazzle.
Surrounded by partygoers with painted faces, pirates, priests and enough feathers to drown an ostrich, Eleanor searches for a familiar face. As she follows a familiar pair of long legs up a grand staircase, she’s sure she’s on Lance’s trail. But she opens the door on a dreadful Lance standing over a dead Colonel Puddifoot, brandishing a silver candlestick, the family safe wide open and empty.
Moments later, the police burst in and arrest Lance for murder, diamond theft and a spate of similar burglaries. But Eleanor is convinced her love didn’t do it, and with him locked up in prison, she knows she needs to clear his name.
Something Lance lets slip about his pals convinces Eleanor the answer lies close to home. Accompanied by her faithful sidekick Gladstone the bulldog, she begins with Lance’s friends - a set of fast driving, even faster drinking, high-society types with a taste for mischief. But after they start getting picked off in circumstances that look a lot like murder, Eleanor is in a race against time to clear Lance’s name and avoid another brush with death....
Fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Downton Abbey will adore this tremendously fun cozy whodunnit, full of mystery, murder and intrigue!
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First published July 8, 2020
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About the author
Verity Bright
26 books378 followersVerity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
July 5, 2020
The second in this series, Death at the Dance is a short, light, historical, cosy mystery. It is also great fun.
Lady Eleanor and her butler, Clifford are again engaged in some private sleuthing to discover a murderer. This time they have an added need to solve the case because the police have Eleanor's love interest, Lancelot, pegged as the culprit.
I think the readability of this series hangs on the delightful characters. Eleanor and Clifford have a beautiful relationship, both caring and very witty. As a duo they work brilliantly and I actually want the Lancelot relationship to fail because he is a bit of an idiot. Come on Eleanor - you can do better! (maybe the Inspector???)
Keep writing Ms Bright - I am looking forward to finding out what happens next!
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this book
Lady Eleanor and her butler, Clifford are again engaged in some private sleuthing to discover a murderer. This time they have an added need to solve the case because the police have Eleanor's love interest, Lancelot, pegged as the culprit.
I think the readability of this series hangs on the delightful characters. Eleanor and Clifford have a beautiful relationship, both caring and very witty. As a duo they work brilliantly and I actually want the Lancelot relationship to fail because he is a bit of an idiot. Come on Eleanor - you can do better! (maybe the Inspector???)
Keep writing Ms Bright - I am looking forward to finding out what happens next!
My thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this book
July 8, 2020
I absolutely loved this cozy historical mystery. The main heroine, Lady Swift, is quite the character and her accomplice Clifford the butler is just fabulous. The story is fast paced and riveting. The list of suspects provides a variety of characters all of who could’ve done it and you’re not really sure who did it until the very end. I would highly recommend this book to all those that love a good cozy mystery.
Merged review:
I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. The release date for this book is 8 July 2020
I absolutely loved this cozy historical mystery. The main heroine, Lady Swift, is quite the character and her accomplice Clifford the butler is just fabulous. The story is fast paced and riveting. The list of suspects provides a variety of characters all of who could’ve done it and you’re not really sure who did it until the very end. I would highly recommend this book to all those that love a good cozy mystery.
Merged review:
I received an advanced copy of this book from Net Galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. The release date for this book is 8 July 2020
I absolutely loved this cozy historical mystery. The main heroine, Lady Swift, is quite the character and her accomplice Clifford the butler is just fabulous. The story is fast paced and riveting. The list of suspects provides a variety of characters all of who could’ve done it and you’re not really sure who did it until the very end. I would highly recommend this book to all those that love a good cozy mystery.
October 29, 2023
3★
“‘I can understand how this sounds, Inspector, but I had the idea and just ran with it. All that doing the right thing at the right time doesn’t come naturally to me, you know.’
‘Yes.’ He stared at the paper. ‘I do know.’”
Yes, Deputy Chief Inspector Seddon certainly does know, since they first met not long after Lady Eleanor Swift moved into her late uncle’s estate, befriended the servants, and solved a crime the police couldn’t. She was certainly unpopular with them at the time, but later, it seems the inspector may have developed a bit of a crush on Lady Swift.
Tonight, they meet at the scene of a murder that takes place upstairs (in another mansion) during a masked ball. Lady Swift walked into the room and saw the chap she is sweet on, by the body. The inspector shows up with the police, and it reads like the game of Clue (Cluedo).
“‘Where were we? Yes, we’ve established no underhand police activities were conducted this evening.’ He glanced at Eleanor. ‘And that the facts of the case are that the accused was found hunched over the deceased, Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, holding a silver candlestick.’”
Eleanor’s beau, (she wishes), is the son of the hosts, an adventurous, charming rascal who is part of a group referred to as “the bright young things”, the “in” crowd, or at least they think they are. They move from party to party, drinking copious amounts of alcohol and enjoying other substances as well.
This is a romp, full of phrases that I’m sure are meant to make me chuckle, not cringe, but I’m afraid enough is enough.
“His handlebar moustache quivered as he grinned. ‘Keeping up appearances, what. Frightfully proud of the memsahib though, backbone of steel my wife has.’”
When Eleanor asks if Lord Langham has any ideas about any enemies of the deceased, Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, whom Lord Langham refers to as “Pudders”, he is no help.
“ ‘ ’Fraid not, my dear. Haven’t a bally clue,’ said Lord Langham. ‘Clue! I’m starting to sound like a real detective, what!’ he said, sounding delighted.”
Clifford is the all-knowing, extremely resourceful butler, who was also her uncle’s best friend, and he was instrumental in solving their previous ‘case’.
I was impatient with the number of cups of tea and trays of dainties and the twee language and ended up skimming the last half of the book. I understand the format (and formula) well enough to know there are plenty of fans who love this, hence my three stars.
“‘I can understand how this sounds, Inspector, but I had the idea and just ran with it. All that doing the right thing at the right time doesn’t come naturally to me, you know.’
‘Yes.’ He stared at the paper. ‘I do know.’”
Yes, Deputy Chief Inspector Seddon certainly does know, since they first met not long after Lady Eleanor Swift moved into her late uncle’s estate, befriended the servants, and solved a crime the police couldn’t. She was certainly unpopular with them at the time, but later, it seems the inspector may have developed a bit of a crush on Lady Swift.
Tonight, they meet at the scene of a murder that takes place upstairs (in another mansion) during a masked ball. Lady Swift walked into the room and saw the chap she is sweet on, by the body. The inspector shows up with the police, and it reads like the game of Clue (Cluedo).
“‘Where were we? Yes, we’ve established no underhand police activities were conducted this evening.’ He glanced at Eleanor. ‘And that the facts of the case are that the accused was found hunched over the deceased, Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, holding a silver candlestick.’”
Eleanor’s beau, (she wishes), is the son of the hosts, an adventurous, charming rascal who is part of a group referred to as “the bright young things”, the “in” crowd, or at least they think they are. They move from party to party, drinking copious amounts of alcohol and enjoying other substances as well.
This is a romp, full of phrases that I’m sure are meant to make me chuckle, not cringe, but I’m afraid enough is enough.
“His handlebar moustache quivered as he grinned. ‘Keeping up appearances, what. Frightfully proud of the memsahib though, backbone of steel my wife has.’”
When Eleanor asks if Lord Langham has any ideas about any enemies of the deceased, Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, whom Lord Langham refers to as “Pudders”, he is no help.
“ ‘ ’Fraid not, my dear. Haven’t a bally clue,’ said Lord Langham. ‘Clue! I’m starting to sound like a real detective, what!’ he said, sounding delighted.”
Clifford is the all-knowing, extremely resourceful butler, who was also her uncle’s best friend, and he was instrumental in solving their previous ‘case’.
I was impatient with the number of cups of tea and trays of dainties and the twee language and ended up skimming the last half of the book. I understand the format (and formula) well enough to know there are plenty of fans who love this, hence my three stars.
July 4, 2020
When Lady Eleanor Swift attended the masked ball at the manor of her good friend Lancelot’s parents, she had no idea that within a few hours she’d be embroiled in another murder investigation, with herself as one of the suspects. With Lancelot arrested for burglary and murder, and the Chief Inspector determined they had their man, Eleanor and her stiff-upper-lipped butler, Clifford put their heads together to work through the clues.
Lancelot’s group of young friends - wildly partying, drinking and more – meant Eleanor needed to infiltrate the “gang” to find what they knew, while Clifford went in another direction. Everything seemed to point to Lance’s guilt but with his distraught parents providing encouragement, Eleanor and Clifford were sure they’d get the answers. But the clock was ticking, and time was running out for Lance. Would they discover the culprit? Or was Eleanor putting herself in danger once again?
Death at the Dance is the 2nd in the Lady Eleanor Swift series by Verity Bright and it was light, fun and entertaining. With plenty of suspects and very few clues, it seemed that perhaps Eleanor and Clifford might fail in their quest this time. Recommended for cozy fans.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Lancelot’s group of young friends - wildly partying, drinking and more – meant Eleanor needed to infiltrate the “gang” to find what they knew, while Clifford went in another direction. Everything seemed to point to Lance’s guilt but with his distraught parents providing encouragement, Eleanor and Clifford were sure they’d get the answers. But the clock was ticking, and time was running out for Lance. Would they discover the culprit? Or was Eleanor putting herself in danger once again?
Death at the Dance is the 2nd in the Lady Eleanor Swift series by Verity Bright and it was light, fun and entertaining. With plenty of suspects and very few clues, it seemed that perhaps Eleanor and Clifford might fail in their quest this time. Recommended for cozy fans.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
Let’s hope this gown fools them and they don’t realise I’m as unladylike underneath as a frog in Wellington boots.
The poor old coot is as mad as a bucket of frogs.
Her tongue, it’s so sharp it’s incredible she doesn’t cut her own throat just by swallowing.
My Review:
I adore this clumsy and impetuous redhead with her infallibly omniscient butler and portly elderly bulldog. They make an exceptional crime-busting team as they bounce around their country lanes in their Rolls Royce. Her inner musings and personal observations were delightful engaging and whimsical, as was the crafty duo of authors’ smooth and seamless storytelling. The writing was pleasantly entertaining, cleverly amusing, and unpredictable and intriguing as well as true to the period with the deployment of colorful vernacular such as “you simple pimple,” “darling fruit,” and “the cat’s pyjamas.” I can’t wait to see what rib-tickling calamity this unlikely group of sleuths embroil themselves with next.
Let’s hope this gown fools them and they don’t realise I’m as unladylike underneath as a frog in Wellington boots.
The poor old coot is as mad as a bucket of frogs.
Her tongue, it’s so sharp it’s incredible she doesn’t cut her own throat just by swallowing.
My Review:
I adore this clumsy and impetuous redhead with her infallibly omniscient butler and portly elderly bulldog. They make an exceptional crime-busting team as they bounce around their country lanes in their Rolls Royce. Her inner musings and personal observations were delightful engaging and whimsical, as was the crafty duo of authors’ smooth and seamless storytelling. The writing was pleasantly entertaining, cleverly amusing, and unpredictable and intriguing as well as true to the period with the deployment of colorful vernacular such as “you simple pimple,” “darling fruit,” and “the cat’s pyjamas.” I can’t wait to see what rib-tickling calamity this unlikely group of sleuths embroil themselves with next.
July 10, 2020
What a delightful book. The protagonist, Lady Eleanor Swift is an adventuress who has inherited her uncle’s property and now lives at his palatial estate. She is relatively new to being a lady, and tests all the boundaries, including the one about keeping her distance with servants. This is the second in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, and once again she teams up with her butler, Clifford, to solve the mystery of who murdered a guest at a formal dance and where are the missing jewels that were in the safe?
The book is filled with interesting characters, all of whom are unique in their own way and contribute to the light hearted nature of the book. Lady Eleanor is bright and energetic and sweeps everyone along with her as she goes. Her butler is a font of information and an excellent sleuth and companion on her exploits, always appearing at just the right moment.
The plot is well executed. Lady Eleanor is attending a masked ball given by the parent of a young man with whom she is quite attracted. The tone is set perfectly as Lady Eleanor arrives, quite late as usual, and within the first half hour stumbles and falls flat on her face in front of all the guests. Not in the least fazed, she searches the crowd for her young man, and spotting him follows him upstairs and into the study just in time to find him standing over the body, candlestick in hand.
Of course, the police arrive at the immediate conclusion that the young man, affectionately referred to as Lancelot or Goggles by Lady Eleanor, is the guilty party and she may actually have been his accomplice. This spurs Lady Eleanor, affectionately referred to as Sherlock by Lancelot, to investigate with the help of her butler and at the bequest of Lancelot’s parents. Further complicating the case are some missing jewels belonging to the family and, the admit to Lady Eleanor, they had deliberately set them up to be stolen in order to file for the insurance as they were in financial difficulties. Questions abound. Did Lancelot steal the jewels to help his parents? Is one of his group of “bright young things” the notorious jewel thief making the rounds of the monied set at the moment? Can Lady Eleanor successfully turn herself into a member of the fast set long enough to find out if any of them are responsible for the murder and theft? Are the two crimes related?
The setting is the roaring 20’s, and there is just enough attention given to help the reader enjoy the time period at the same time trying to solve the murder. The read is so light-hearted that it’s a joy to read and perfect for anyone wanting something refreshing and cheerful without being an out and out comedy. As for Lady Eleanor, she is one of the most delightful heroines to come along in a while. Think Miss Fisher of the Miss Fisher murder series and you might get a good idea of her entire approach to life and to solving mysteries.
This can easily be read in a day or two, if you want. It can also be stretched out over several days with interruptions without being hampered in terms of remembering where you were or what you were doing. It’s an excellent source of entertainment and escapism. My thanks to Bookoutour and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital read copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book is filled with interesting characters, all of whom are unique in their own way and contribute to the light hearted nature of the book. Lady Eleanor is bright and energetic and sweeps everyone along with her as she goes. Her butler is a font of information and an excellent sleuth and companion on her exploits, always appearing at just the right moment.
The plot is well executed. Lady Eleanor is attending a masked ball given by the parent of a young man with whom she is quite attracted. The tone is set perfectly as Lady Eleanor arrives, quite late as usual, and within the first half hour stumbles and falls flat on her face in front of all the guests. Not in the least fazed, she searches the crowd for her young man, and spotting him follows him upstairs and into the study just in time to find him standing over the body, candlestick in hand.
Of course, the police arrive at the immediate conclusion that the young man, affectionately referred to as Lancelot or Goggles by Lady Eleanor, is the guilty party and she may actually have been his accomplice. This spurs Lady Eleanor, affectionately referred to as Sherlock by Lancelot, to investigate with the help of her butler and at the bequest of Lancelot’s parents. Further complicating the case are some missing jewels belonging to the family and, the admit to Lady Eleanor, they had deliberately set them up to be stolen in order to file for the insurance as they were in financial difficulties. Questions abound. Did Lancelot steal the jewels to help his parents? Is one of his group of “bright young things” the notorious jewel thief making the rounds of the monied set at the moment? Can Lady Eleanor successfully turn herself into a member of the fast set long enough to find out if any of them are responsible for the murder and theft? Are the two crimes related?
The setting is the roaring 20’s, and there is just enough attention given to help the reader enjoy the time period at the same time trying to solve the murder. The read is so light-hearted that it’s a joy to read and perfect for anyone wanting something refreshing and cheerful without being an out and out comedy. As for Lady Eleanor, she is one of the most delightful heroines to come along in a while. Think Miss Fisher of the Miss Fisher murder series and you might get a good idea of her entire approach to life and to solving mysteries.
This can easily be read in a day or two, if you want. It can also be stretched out over several days with interruptions without being hampered in terms of remembering where you were or what you were doing. It’s an excellent source of entertainment and escapism. My thanks to Bookoutour and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital read copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2020
Such fun! "Death at the dance" is the second book in the "Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery" series and much better than the first one, IMO.
In this instance Lady Swift's beau, Lancelot, has been accused of theft and murder. Eleanor is convinced of his innocence so with the help of her butler Clifford she sets to clear his name. For this she will have to mix with the bright young things, but the plot thickens when one of them dies in suspicious circumstances.
While this is a cozy mystery, and I enjoyed that part, I think the real strenght of this series are its characters. After a first book where they were still getting to know their characters now the authors have fully developed them, making it in a way that I would gladly read a story just of Eleanor and Clifford talking and bantering. Her unladylike behavior and his cheeky responses were so refreshing, making this story so fun to read. That's one truly special relationship they have!
Light mystery with a wonderful cast of characters. Can't wait to see what's in store next for Lady Swift and Clifford.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
In this instance Lady Swift's beau, Lancelot, has been accused of theft and murder. Eleanor is convinced of his innocence so with the help of her butler Clifford she sets to clear his name. For this she will have to mix with the bright young things, but the plot thickens when one of them dies in suspicious circumstances.
While this is a cozy mystery, and I enjoyed that part, I think the real strenght of this series are its characters. After a first book where they were still getting to know their characters now the authors have fully developed them, making it in a way that I would gladly read a story just of Eleanor and Clifford talking and bantering. Her unladylike behavior and his cheeky responses were so refreshing, making this story so fun to read. That's one truly special relationship they have!
Light mystery with a wonderful cast of characters. Can't wait to see what's in store next for Lady Swift and Clifford.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2020
Woohoo Lady Eleanor Swift was back, and this time she was invited to a masked ball. (And so was Lady Shalini... I decided to tag along uninvited with my darling friend Lady Marnie. We were in black in case you were wondering FYI) Author Verity Bright had some fabulous pieces of writing where she transported me right into the heart of landed gentry of London in the 1920s.
As the title suggested, our young, adventurous, swashbuckling heroine was right where the murder occurred with her good friend Lancelot being the prime suspect. My second book by the author, I was completely transported to the time when things moved at a slower, different pace. The descriptions were spot on.
This was, at its core, a murder mystery where Eleanor had to move fast to save her friend. I loved that she had her own team of her dog and butler. This was one series where I couldn't say - The butler did it!! Clifford was one of the main characters who helped Eleanor with his information and practical observations.
Their characterisation was perfect; their conversations, humorous and often teasing. Clifford made a perfect counterfoil to Eleanor. She rushed into and sometimes fell flat(pun intended); he thought twice before rushing. Their combined attitudes were a force to reckon with. Brains with gumption.
The story had the old fashioned sleuthing and subtle interviews of friends and foes. Eleanor did take some risks, but that made the book exciting. Many suspects and clues pointing in different direction gave the story the right amount of intrigue.
A light, fun whodunit set in the times past made this a perfect read to escape dark realities.
As the title suggested, our young, adventurous, swashbuckling heroine was right where the murder occurred with her good friend Lancelot being the prime suspect. My second book by the author, I was completely transported to the time when things moved at a slower, different pace. The descriptions were spot on.
This was, at its core, a murder mystery where Eleanor had to move fast to save her friend. I loved that she had her own team of her dog and butler. This was one series where I couldn't say - The butler did it!! Clifford was one of the main characters who helped Eleanor with his information and practical observations.
Their characterisation was perfect; their conversations, humorous and often teasing. Clifford made a perfect counterfoil to Eleanor. She rushed into and sometimes fell flat(pun intended); he thought twice before rushing. Their combined attitudes were a force to reckon with. Brains with gumption.
The story had the old fashioned sleuthing and subtle interviews of friends and foes. Eleanor did take some risks, but that made the book exciting. Many suspects and clues pointing in different direction gave the story the right amount of intrigue.
A light, fun whodunit set in the times past made this a perfect read to escape dark realities.
July 28, 2020
Flame haired Lady Eleanor Swift returns for a second 1920s sleuthing adventure in Death at the Dance by the husband and wife writing team known as Verify Bright. Ellie is now comfortably ensconced at Henley Hall and has made many friends in Little Beckford and it's neighboring communities. She has also developed a particular friendship with Lancelot Fenwick-Langham, known to her as "Goggles" because he rides a motorcycle and flies an airplane every chance he gets.
Invited to a ball by Lord Harold and Lady Augusta Fenwick-Langham, Lancelot's parents, Ellie is the last to arrive. She is hoping to avoid disagreeable Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, a houseguest of the Langhams'. Unfortunately, she is unable to do so, and she and the Colonel exchange words shortly after her arrival. Ellie, however, is more concerned with finding Lancelot. She learns that he, together with his "bright young things" friends, has come in full costume as a pirate. Spotting a pirate, she follows him upstairs, loses eight of him, hears a voice calling out "no," and opens the door from which she thinks the voice came. What she sees as she enters the room comes as a shock; Lancelot is standing over the body of Colonel Puddifoot-Barton holding a candlestick. Just then the doors at the other end of the room bursts open, and a group of policemen along with Detective Chief Inspector Seaton and Sergeant Brice, whom Ellie met on a previous case.
The police were outside the door because a cat burglar has been successfully operating in the neighborhood, making away with a considerable amount of expensive jewelry. The room in which Ellie and Lancelot are found contains the safe that holds Lady Langham's exquisite necklace. DCI Seaton immediately notices that the safe is open and empty, and he arrests Lancelot on the spot for the theft of his mother's necklace as well as for the murder of the Colonel. He also cautions Ellie that she, too, is a suspect.
At the behest of Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham, Ellie teams up with her inimitable butler, Clifford, determined to discover who really murdered the Colonel and stole the necklace. Was it either or both of the Langhams, who have been experiencing serious financial difficulties? Might it have been one of several of the backstabbing lords and ladies at the ball? Could it have been an inside job committed by a member of staff? Or could the deeds have been done by one of more of Lancelot's "bright young things" friends? Backed up by the rest of the staff of Henley Hall, and by Gladstone, Ellie's elderly bulldog,, she and Clifford sleuth their way through this amusing entry in a series that should continue to delight fans of English cozy historical mysteries for some time to come. Recommended.
Thank you to Verity Bright, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the ARC of Death at the Dance in return for this honest review.
Invited to a ball by Lord Harold and Lady Augusta Fenwick-Langham, Lancelot's parents, Ellie is the last to arrive. She is hoping to avoid disagreeable Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, a houseguest of the Langhams'. Unfortunately, she is unable to do so, and she and the Colonel exchange words shortly after her arrival. Ellie, however, is more concerned with finding Lancelot. She learns that he, together with his "bright young things" friends, has come in full costume as a pirate. Spotting a pirate, she follows him upstairs, loses eight of him, hears a voice calling out "no," and opens the door from which she thinks the voice came. What she sees as she enters the room comes as a shock; Lancelot is standing over the body of Colonel Puddifoot-Barton holding a candlestick. Just then the doors at the other end of the room bursts open, and a group of policemen along with Detective Chief Inspector Seaton and Sergeant Brice, whom Ellie met on a previous case.
The police were outside the door because a cat burglar has been successfully operating in the neighborhood, making away with a considerable amount of expensive jewelry. The room in which Ellie and Lancelot are found contains the safe that holds Lady Langham's exquisite necklace. DCI Seaton immediately notices that the safe is open and empty, and he arrests Lancelot on the spot for the theft of his mother's necklace as well as for the murder of the Colonel. He also cautions Ellie that she, too, is a suspect.
At the behest of Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham, Ellie teams up with her inimitable butler, Clifford, determined to discover who really murdered the Colonel and stole the necklace. Was it either or both of the Langhams, who have been experiencing serious financial difficulties? Might it have been one of several of the backstabbing lords and ladies at the ball? Could it have been an inside job committed by a member of staff? Or could the deeds have been done by one of more of Lancelot's "bright young things" friends? Backed up by the rest of the staff of Henley Hall, and by Gladstone, Ellie's elderly bulldog,, she and Clifford sleuth their way through this amusing entry in a series that should continue to delight fans of English cozy historical mysteries for some time to come. Recommended.
Thank you to Verity Bright, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the ARC of Death at the Dance in return for this honest review.
April 4, 2022
Ordinarily, I’m not a fan of cover art that adds advertising tag lines or reviewer comments by other authors. However, I will confess that once again I smiled at the advertising tag line on this series cover. The tag promotion indicates, "An addictive historical cozy mystery" and advertising is simply quite right.
The setting is 1920, England. Ellie is reminded by Clifford the butler that she has only a short amount of time to get ready to attend a masked ball hosted by the Fenwick-Langhams. As their son Lancelot (Lance for short) Langham has definitely caught Ellie's attention and vice versa anticipation is high that their eyes will be sparkling with an exchange of humor and wit in conversation. But since Ellie arrives late to the ball by the time she catches up to Lance he's in a position that makes him the prime suspect in a burglary/murder to the police. Since Ellie is in the room with Lance the police must determine if Ellie is an accomplice or simply at the wrong place at the wrong time. Will Ellie be able to help Lance or will she be arrested too?
Properly addressed as Lady Eleanor Swift of Henley Hall since inheriting her Uncle Byron’s estate she remains more comfortable being called Ellie. I love Ellie. With a Bohemian upbringing it was quite natural for her to become a vibrant, independent woman having adventures around the world scouting out routes for Thomas Walker’s travel company. Although Ellie loves to sleep in she also delights in eating a full English breakfast. She’s as down-to-earth as she is intelligent and it’s easy to understand the mutual respect and repartee between Ellie and Clifford. Gladstone the elderly bulldog has developed quite a fondness for Ellie adding a paw-some touch of whimsy.
Although only the 2nd book in the series picking up this cozy to read is an enjoyable time of visiting with character friends. It’s heartwarming to learn more about the characters through their interactions with each other and particularly their reactions to Ellie. I’m keen to visit them all again soon.
Please be sure to read "A Little More About the Lady Swift Books" at the end of the cozy as it gives insight as to what makes this cozy series so charming by a husband and wife partnership using the pseudonym Verity Bright.
The setting is 1920, England. Ellie is reminded by Clifford the butler that she has only a short amount of time to get ready to attend a masked ball hosted by the Fenwick-Langhams. As their son Lancelot (Lance for short) Langham has definitely caught Ellie's attention and vice versa anticipation is high that their eyes will be sparkling with an exchange of humor and wit in conversation. But since Ellie arrives late to the ball by the time she catches up to Lance he's in a position that makes him the prime suspect in a burglary/murder to the police. Since Ellie is in the room with Lance the police must determine if Ellie is an accomplice or simply at the wrong place at the wrong time. Will Ellie be able to help Lance or will she be arrested too?
Properly addressed as Lady Eleanor Swift of Henley Hall since inheriting her Uncle Byron’s estate she remains more comfortable being called Ellie. I love Ellie. With a Bohemian upbringing it was quite natural for her to become a vibrant, independent woman having adventures around the world scouting out routes for Thomas Walker’s travel company. Although Ellie loves to sleep in she also delights in eating a full English breakfast. She’s as down-to-earth as she is intelligent and it’s easy to understand the mutual respect and repartee between Ellie and Clifford. Gladstone the elderly bulldog has developed quite a fondness for Ellie adding a paw-some touch of whimsy.
Although only the 2nd book in the series picking up this cozy to read is an enjoyable time of visiting with character friends. It’s heartwarming to learn more about the characters through their interactions with each other and particularly their reactions to Ellie. I’m keen to visit them all again soon.
Please be sure to read "A Little More About the Lady Swift Books" at the end of the cozy as it gives insight as to what makes this cozy series so charming by a husband and wife partnership using the pseudonym Verity Bright.
April 1, 2023
3.5 stars, this was a fun final book for March Mystery Madness 2023! Clifford is my favorite character by far. Eleanor is a bit much; she’s a loose cannon and seems to always be eating. 😆 I can’t say she’s a favorite sleuth at this point, but she is funny. I do enjoy her relationship with her household staff. I’m skeptical about Lance though. The mystery was a bit of a muddle until the very end but I did enjoy the climactic final scene and Eleanor’s quick thinking. We do get glimpses of Eleanor’s very mysterious background too. It leads to an interesting confrontation between her and DCI Seldon, and I’m here for it.
July 4, 2020
‘Death at the Dance’ takes readers back to the historical period when people were actually on time to social affairs. There wasn’t much to the characters but their personalities shone through their mannerisms. Eleanor is a privileged, sentimental, unconventional lady. She was easy-going, silly for her age. She is also kind which is portrayed in the way she treats her staff. Gladstone is her loving bulldog. Clifford is Eleanor’s crime-solving butler, who has information about everything necessary. Lancelot seemed cheeky and the book could've used more of him. There is significance to several background characters as well; Eleanor’s staff, Lord Harold Langham and his wife, her theatre acquaintances, and Lancelot’s gang of friends.
This book has a lot to offer in the mystery element. There is a ton of detail and the plot will make readers ponder about all the suspects. Just when they begin to form sensible guesses, their minds will boggle with extra information. This is one of those murder mysteries where the readers have to pay attention to all the descriptions because they will turn out to be quite useful to the overall plot. The diction is suitable for the historical setting but not enough to distract the readers from the plot. The writing is classy and elegant. Eleanor’s disregard for authority will strike a chord with the audience.
The pacing is too slow for the general audience. Eleanor has better chemistry with DCI Sheldon than Lord Lancelot Langham. The book has a well-established premise but it lost its way in between but quickly got on track again. Part of the big reveal is predictable, part of it isn’t. ‘Death at the Dance’ isn’t thrilling but will keep the readers intrigued.
‘Death at the Dance’ is not an edge of seat page-turner but rather a cozy historical mystery just like the summary promised. It is recommended for fans of classic mysteries. ARC is provided by Bookouture publishers and NetGalley. Thank you.
This book has a lot to offer in the mystery element. There is a ton of detail and the plot will make readers ponder about all the suspects. Just when they begin to form sensible guesses, their minds will boggle with extra information. This is one of those murder mysteries where the readers have to pay attention to all the descriptions because they will turn out to be quite useful to the overall plot. The diction is suitable for the historical setting but not enough to distract the readers from the plot. The writing is classy and elegant. Eleanor’s disregard for authority will strike a chord with the audience.
The pacing is too slow for the general audience. Eleanor has better chemistry with DCI Sheldon than Lord Lancelot Langham. The book has a well-established premise but it lost its way in between but quickly got on track again. Part of the big reveal is predictable, part of it isn’t. ‘Death at the Dance’ isn’t thrilling but will keep the readers intrigued.
‘Death at the Dance’ is not an edge of seat page-turner but rather a cozy historical mystery just like the summary promised. It is recommended for fans of classic mysteries. ARC is provided by Bookouture publishers and NetGalley. Thank you.
July 9, 2020
I enjoyed the previous book, especially following Eleanor and Clifford, but there are just too many things wrong with this book.
To begin with the book is full of caricatures, starting with the appalling 'bright young things' and finishing with the pig-headed police Inspector. Also it doesn't help that the whole 'upper class' dialogue is overdone. Then there is their basic investigation technique, which starts with randomly poking around in the hope that something turns up, followed by endless repetitive discussion of what they know and don't know.
Finally there is also Eleanor's infatuation with Lance, who is not only self-centred and shallow, but it also turns out he’s a bit of a bully.
I still enjoyed Eleanor's fun and slightly zany nature, although even then I thought the author was trying too hard with her clumsiness and inability to learn to drive. If it had not been for Eleanor I would have probably given one star.
To begin with the book is full of caricatures, starting with the appalling 'bright young things' and finishing with the pig-headed police Inspector. Also it doesn't help that the whole 'upper class' dialogue is overdone. Then there is their basic investigation technique, which starts with randomly poking around in the hope that something turns up, followed by endless repetitive discussion of what they know and don't know.
Finally there is also Eleanor's infatuation with Lance, who is not only self-centred and shallow, but it also turns out he’s a bit of a bully.
I still enjoyed Eleanor's fun and slightly zany nature, although even then I thought the author was trying too hard with her clumsiness and inability to learn to drive. If it had not been for Eleanor I would have probably given one star.
June 26, 2020
It started off as a fairly interesting read and made me laugh within thr first chapter, so I thought it was going go be good. However reading on, it became apparent to me this book was really over doing it with its script. It was really pushing the "oh yes my lady" and old fashioned talk, and it really put me off. I felt the story went flat for me. Nothing really held my interest. When she was going over the same details as the police, I just thought there was no point. Good try, but not for me
Thanks to Netgally for this ARC
Thanks to Netgally for this ARC
July 7, 2022
Rating: 4.8 / 5
And so ends another lovely addition to the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery series!
This time, we pick up about two months from where we left off at the end of A Very English Murder, with Eleanor keen to pursue her friendship with Lancelot. That is, if she doesn't have to keep chasing him everywhere, which is just what ends up happening as she can't find him at his parents' masked ball.
Unfortunately, the night does not end romantically but in murder instead, and it seems like Lancelot is the main suspect at hand!
Hmmph, well, not if Eleanor has anything to say about it! Teaming up with Clifford once more, she sets about making it her business to prove Lancelot innocent, and so gets right back into the sleuthing biz!
In terms of the way this mystery works, once again we have a cast of characters to consider as suspects, and this time the stakes are much higher than in the first book, as it's Lancelot who's suspected of the murder, and so there are emotional stakes for Eleanor as well! It adds delightfully to the worldbuilding, the character development, and, of course, there's a lovely twists-and-turns plot and resolution to the mystery as well!
Yet, despite all these things, I like it slightly less than the first book in the series, and as a reflection of that I've taken .2 stars off. My reason for this is just because some of the scenes where Eleanor is forced to party with the "bright young things" group in order to glean information felt a bit repetitive, and I wasn't sure just how much she was really finding out through this. Instead, it felt like it was just an excuse to torture poor Eleanor, who really didn't fit in.
Once again though, I just love the ending, which made it all worth it! Like...even when situations seem predictable or helpless, they aren't, and the author manages to do something unexpected. In this mystery, I'll confess that I'd figured out a thing or two way earlier than Eleanor and Clifford did, but I was still very curious to see how the motive(s) behind everything played out, and it was worth it for that alone.
All in all, good show on this one, and I'll be looking forward to eagerly continuing the series! *glances longingly at front door, as I'm expecting the delivery of those books soon*
And so ends another lovely addition to the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery series!
This time, we pick up about two months from where we left off at the end of A Very English Murder, with Eleanor keen to pursue her friendship with Lancelot. That is, if she doesn't have to keep chasing him everywhere, which is just what ends up happening as she can't find him at his parents' masked ball.
Unfortunately, the night does not end romantically but in murder instead, and it seems like Lancelot is the main suspect at hand!
Hmmph, well, not if Eleanor has anything to say about it! Teaming up with Clifford once more, she sets about making it her business to prove Lancelot innocent, and so gets right back into the sleuthing biz!
In terms of the way this mystery works, once again we have a cast of characters to consider as suspects, and this time the stakes are much higher than in the first book, as it's Lancelot who's suspected of the murder, and so there are emotional stakes for Eleanor as well! It adds delightfully to the worldbuilding, the character development, and, of course, there's a lovely twists-and-turns plot and resolution to the mystery as well!
Yet, despite all these things, I like it slightly less than the first book in the series, and as a reflection of that I've taken .2 stars off. My reason for this is just because some of the scenes where Eleanor is forced to party with the "bright young things" group in order to glean information felt a bit repetitive, and I wasn't sure just how much she was really finding out through this. Instead, it felt like it was just an excuse to torture poor Eleanor, who really didn't fit in.
Once again though, I just love the ending, which made it all worth it! Like...even when situations seem predictable or helpless, they aren't, and the author manages to do something unexpected. In this mystery, I'll confess that I'd figured out a thing or two way earlier than Eleanor and Clifford did, but I was still very curious to see how the motive(s) behind everything played out, and it was worth it for that alone.
All in all, good show on this one, and I'll be looking forward to eagerly continuing the series! *glances longingly at front door, as I'm expecting the delivery of those books soon*
August 24, 2025
4.5 ✨. I'm very happy that there are a lot of books in this mystery series! I'm only on number two, but I am charmed by Ellie and her butler Clifford. This time they are helping to clear the name of Ellie's potential love interest, Lancelot. While at a party, Ellie walks in on Lancelot standing over a dead body with a bloody candlestick and unfortunately, the police come in right after, making things look quite bad for both Ellie and Lance. Ellie and Clifford risk their lives to find out the truth and there is quite a bit of funny, enjoyable moments also.
August 16, 2020
In the second book of this engaging cozy mystery series, Lady Eleanor (Elle) Swift is a bit hesitant to attend a masked ball at the home of her friend Lancelot's family's manor. She still hasn't gotten adjusted to her new role as a Lady in her own manor. What's more is that just as Elle was settling into her new life, she took on another role - an amateur sleuth. Now, while at the ball, when her dear friend - and beau - Lancelot is arrested for murder, Elle quickly dons her her hat and seeks to not only prove Lance's innocence, but also plans on discovering the murderer.
Elle begins her inquiries, leaving no stone unturned, especially as there is definitely more than one likely suspect. It soon proves evident that Elle must act quickly, as there are other murders. So not only must Elle help Lance, it doesn't take her much time to fall into danger, with her very life at risk yet again.
This is exactly my type of book! I love Elle, and her little sidekick Gladstone, a proper bulldog who is always by her side. Not only did I enjoy Elle and Gladstone in both books in this series, but there is also Clifford, Elle's butler at the manor. He is great! I love how he is always there - not just to advise Elle, but helping her in ways that she is grateful for.
This is a fun mystery where I was kept guessing throughout. Of course the time frame was fun too, 1920's England. As much as I enjoyed Agatha Christie in years past, I wasn't a huge Miss Marple fan - I had too much fun with Hercules Poirot. Well, by reading both books in this series, I now feel like I should grab a hold of some of the Marple books. I didn't know what I was missing, so I love that my interest was piqued by reading these books by Verity Bright. I cannot wait see what else Elle, et al, have in store in future books.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Elle begins her inquiries, leaving no stone unturned, especially as there is definitely more than one likely suspect. It soon proves evident that Elle must act quickly, as there are other murders. So not only must Elle help Lance, it doesn't take her much time to fall into danger, with her very life at risk yet again.
This is exactly my type of book! I love Elle, and her little sidekick Gladstone, a proper bulldog who is always by her side. Not only did I enjoy Elle and Gladstone in both books in this series, but there is also Clifford, Elle's butler at the manor. He is great! I love how he is always there - not just to advise Elle, but helping her in ways that she is grateful for.
This is a fun mystery where I was kept guessing throughout. Of course the time frame was fun too, 1920's England. As much as I enjoyed Agatha Christie in years past, I wasn't a huge Miss Marple fan - I had too much fun with Hercules Poirot. Well, by reading both books in this series, I now feel like I should grab a hold of some of the Marple books. I didn't know what I was missing, so I love that my interest was piqued by reading these books by Verity Bright. I cannot wait see what else Elle, et al, have in store in future books.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 25, 2023
That was the most fun I have had reading an historical mystery in a long time! I loved "Death at the Dance." The second in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series (and I will definitely be reading the first as soon as is humanly possible!) set in 1920's England had me laughing out loud before the tenth page!
During a masked ball hosted by the Fenwick-Langham's, Lady Eleanor enters the study to find Lancelot (the son of the hosts) leaning over a body with a candlestick in his hand. The safe is wide open and empty. A minute later, the police burst in and arrest Lancelot for theft and murder.
I loved the characters. Lady Eleanor is fascinating, but my favorite was her butler, Clifford. I loved the dialogue (especially between Ellie and Clifford). The mystery was good. I didn't figure out who the killer was (and I usually do).
I can't recommend this book enough!
During a masked ball hosted by the Fenwick-Langham's, Lady Eleanor enters the study to find Lancelot (the son of the hosts) leaning over a body with a candlestick in his hand. The safe is wide open and empty. A minute later, the police burst in and arrest Lancelot for theft and murder.
I loved the characters. Lady Eleanor is fascinating, but my favorite was her butler, Clifford. I loved the dialogue (especially between Ellie and Clifford). The mystery was good. I didn't figure out who the killer was (and I usually do).
I can't recommend this book enough!
August 21, 2020
Lady Eleanor Swift is new to being a lady and is anxious about attending the masked ball at a nearby manor. Her hosts, Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham are the parents of Lancelot, Eleanor's flirt. Eleanor is anxious to make a good impression but arrives by falling flat on her face. Embarassing and eager to see Lance, she slips upstairs after spying his costumed legs heading up. Eleanor is shocked to come upon the scene of a murder! Colonel Puddifort-Barton is lying dead on the floor with his head bashed in and Lance is holding the weapon! To make matters worse, the police arrive on the scene right away and accuse Lance of murder and stealing his family's jewels with Eleanor as his accomplice. Lance is tossed in jail and the Detective Inspector is determined to see Lance hang. Not if Eleanor can help it! Begged by Lord and Lady F-L and one of Lance's Bright Young Thing friends, Eleanor is on the case. Her butler, Clifford, ably assisting her in her investigation. Can Eleanor solve the mystery before Lance hangs?
I enjoyed this mystery more than the first. It seemed like the whodunit was pretty obvious but it wasn't. I was surprised. I expected Eleanor to be more clever than she was and act more on the last clue. Instead, she finds herself in danger (again). At least she knows how to rescue herself. This series is fun and light in tone but it's a little too superficial for me. I'd like more emotion and more romance - NOT with Lance. I don't get much romance from this series so far. This book is way too long and repetitive with all the hard partying Eleanor has to do to get information. It makes me feel old!
I really like Eleanor. She's tough, courageous and kind. I love how she puts the servants at ease and her relationship with Clifford is darling. She's finally settled in and adjusting to being the lady of the manor. She's even willing to try to integrate into village life by participating in the amateur dramatic society. What I don't like about her is her infatuation with Lance. He's way more immature and stupid than she is. He may be funny but he's funny in a juvenile way. As the only son, he should be trying to help his parents and not cause more trouble. His choice of friends is awful.
My favorite characters are Clifford and Gladstone. Clifford, the butler, is more than a butler. He's Eleanor's friend, ally and totally devoted to her because her late uncle loved her so much. He still has some secrets that can't be shared but I love how he becomes Eleanor's investigative partner and her partner in crime. He's a true friend when she needs one. Gladstone, the bulldog, is adorable. He's so cute! Gladstone is greedy and loves his people food and belly rubs. He does not seem to enjoy walks or exercise of any sort. I can hear him snoring from this side of the page LOL! Clifford's friend, Sandford, the F-L's butler, is also a charming man. He's eager to do what he can to help in the spy game and solve mysteries. I also really liked Polly, the awkward maid. Eleanor is very sweet to put Polly at ease and reassure the girl. It helps reduce her clumsiness. I was shocked at how young she is. Her situation is heartbreaking and the others should try to help her learn and grow. How else is she supposed to learn if they don't teach her only scold her?
The Fenwick-Langhams are very nice. They're almost too nice. They've spoiled their son. They love him wholeheartedly and Augusta is dreadfully worried. No mother should have to go through that worry. It takes a toll on her health. They aren't perfect. They were about to do something wrong and they are rather shallow in terms of wanting to keep up with the "rah-rah" crowd but I like them. Lord F-L is a bit too jovial, old-school for me. I don't get his sporting references at all and I don't think Eleanor does either but there's no denying he's a wonderful family man.
Colonel Puddifoot-Barton aka "Pudders" is a very old-fashioned gentleman. His world is the 19th-century military- order, precision, traditions, manners. He's lost in this new society and the only way he knows how to deal with it is criticize everyone for not behaving in a Victorian fashion. This isn't right and I understand why no one really likes him except for Lord F-L, an old miltary comrade. Still, the man didn't deserve to die.
The murderer has to have been at the party! Was it Viscount and Viscountess Littleton? She's American and rather rude. He's a brainless idiot everyone thinks is hen-pecked. I don't see either of them having the brains to mastermind a murder, theft and frame Lancelot. The Dowager Countess of Goldsworthy is an old-school dowager without Maggie Smith's heart of gold. She's more Lady Catherine than Lady Violet. The Countess wants nothing more than to marry off her niece Cora to Lancelot but the girl "hasn't a bean." Could the Countess want revenge on Lance for not proposing to her niece? Cora seems kind of ditzy and naive. If the Countess did it, I don't think Cora knows.
The Bright Young Things, friends of Lance's, are the main suspects. There's Lady Coco Childs, sweet and silly, she loves to party. She is worried about Lance and wants Eleanor to save him. Her sister, Lady Millicent is horrid. Millie is a spiteful cat with sharp claws. She's a mean girl plus plus. Millie never has anything nice to say about anyone and seems determined to be extra cruel to Eleanor. Johnny Seaton is the spoiled scion of a wealthy family. His only occupation is hard partying and I believe he comes across as a womanizer. He's a bully towards his party pal Albie. Albert Appleby is the son of a miner desperately trying to keep up with his more wealthy associates. He's morose, writes poetry and way more intelligent than any of the others. I kind of like him for the most part. He's the only one of the gang with any brains anyway. I felt truly sorry for Albie that everyone else was mean to him. His plot is terrible tragic. Prince Lucas Singh is an obvious suspect. He's one of the gang but will soon return home to India under his father's thumb. His family knows all about jewels and he was seen arguing with Col. P-B. He left the party early and his alibi seems flimsy. Even his costume could make him guilty. I don't know what to think about him. He is the quietest of the group.
DCI Seldon should be fired. I was hoping he was the murderer actually. He doesn't care about the rich people because many of them don't care about the working man. DCI Seldon believes justice only belongs to the working people and the elite don't deserve it. The bug up his butt is so big, he can't even give Lance a fair deal. DCI Seldon is also motivated by jealousy over his feelings for Eleanor. In that instance, if he can't be fair and impartial, I think someone else should have taken over the case. Sargeant Brice and Constable Lowe are both kind and helpful to Eleanor. At least someone at the station isn't biased and cruel.
I think I will probably read the third book in the series when it comes out. I like Eleanor and Clifford enough but if she doesn't find a new love interest, I'll be disapointed.
I enjoyed this mystery more than the first. It seemed like the whodunit was pretty obvious but it wasn't. I was surprised. I expected Eleanor to be more clever than she was and act more on the last clue. Instead, she finds herself in danger (again). At least she knows how to rescue herself. This series is fun and light in tone but it's a little too superficial for me. I'd like more emotion and more romance - NOT with Lance. I don't get much romance from this series so far. This book is way too long and repetitive with all the hard partying Eleanor has to do to get information. It makes me feel old!
I really like Eleanor. She's tough, courageous and kind. I love how she puts the servants at ease and her relationship with Clifford is darling. She's finally settled in and adjusting to being the lady of the manor. She's even willing to try to integrate into village life by participating in the amateur dramatic society. What I don't like about her is her infatuation with Lance. He's way more immature and stupid than she is. He may be funny but he's funny in a juvenile way. As the only son, he should be trying to help his parents and not cause more trouble. His choice of friends is awful.
My favorite characters are Clifford and Gladstone. Clifford, the butler, is more than a butler. He's Eleanor's friend, ally and totally devoted to her because her late uncle loved her so much. He still has some secrets that can't be shared but I love how he becomes Eleanor's investigative partner and her partner in crime. He's a true friend when she needs one. Gladstone, the bulldog, is adorable. He's so cute! Gladstone is greedy and loves his people food and belly rubs. He does not seem to enjoy walks or exercise of any sort. I can hear him snoring from this side of the page LOL! Clifford's friend, Sandford, the F-L's butler, is also a charming man. He's eager to do what he can to help in the spy game and solve mysteries. I also really liked Polly, the awkward maid. Eleanor is very sweet to put Polly at ease and reassure the girl. It helps reduce her clumsiness. I was shocked at how young she is. Her situation is heartbreaking and the others should try to help her learn and grow. How else is she supposed to learn if they don't teach her only scold her?
The Fenwick-Langhams are very nice. They're almost too nice. They've spoiled their son. They love him wholeheartedly and Augusta is dreadfully worried. No mother should have to go through that worry. It takes a toll on her health. They aren't perfect. They were about to do something wrong and they are rather shallow in terms of wanting to keep up with the "rah-rah" crowd but I like them. Lord F-L is a bit too jovial, old-school for me. I don't get his sporting references at all and I don't think Eleanor does either but there's no denying he's a wonderful family man.
Colonel Puddifoot-Barton aka "Pudders" is a very old-fashioned gentleman. His world is the 19th-century military- order, precision, traditions, manners. He's lost in this new society and the only way he knows how to deal with it is criticize everyone for not behaving in a Victorian fashion. This isn't right and I understand why no one really likes him except for Lord F-L, an old miltary comrade. Still, the man didn't deserve to die.
The murderer has to have been at the party! Was it Viscount and Viscountess Littleton? She's American and rather rude. He's a brainless idiot everyone thinks is hen-pecked. I don't see either of them having the brains to mastermind a murder, theft and frame Lancelot. The Dowager Countess of Goldsworthy is an old-school dowager without Maggie Smith's heart of gold. She's more Lady Catherine than Lady Violet. The Countess wants nothing more than to marry off her niece Cora to Lancelot but the girl "hasn't a bean." Could the Countess want revenge on Lance for not proposing to her niece? Cora seems kind of ditzy and naive. If the Countess did it, I don't think Cora knows.
The Bright Young Things, friends of Lance's, are the main suspects. There's Lady Coco Childs, sweet and silly, she loves to party. She is worried about Lance and wants Eleanor to save him. Her sister, Lady Millicent is horrid. Millie is a spiteful cat with sharp claws. She's a mean girl plus plus. Millie never has anything nice to say about anyone and seems determined to be extra cruel to Eleanor. Johnny Seaton is the spoiled scion of a wealthy family. His only occupation is hard partying and I believe he comes across as a womanizer. He's a bully towards his party pal Albie. Albert Appleby is the son of a miner desperately trying to keep up with his more wealthy associates. He's morose, writes poetry and way more intelligent than any of the others. I kind of like him for the most part. He's the only one of the gang with any brains anyway. I felt truly sorry for Albie that everyone else was mean to him. His plot is terrible tragic. Prince Lucas Singh is an obvious suspect. He's one of the gang but will soon return home to India under his father's thumb. His family knows all about jewels and he was seen arguing with Col. P-B. He left the party early and his alibi seems flimsy. Even his costume could make him guilty. I don't know what to think about him. He is the quietest of the group.
DCI Seldon should be fired. I was hoping he was the murderer actually. He doesn't care about the rich people because many of them don't care about the working man. DCI Seldon believes justice only belongs to the working people and the elite don't deserve it. The bug up his butt is so big, he can't even give Lance a fair deal. DCI Seldon is also motivated by jealousy over his feelings for Eleanor. In that instance, if he can't be fair and impartial, I think someone else should have taken over the case. Sargeant Brice and Constable Lowe are both kind and helpful to Eleanor. At least someone at the station isn't biased and cruel.
I think I will probably read the third book in the series when it comes out. I like Eleanor and Clifford enough but if she doesn't find a new love interest, I'll be disapointed.
June 22, 2020
4.5/5
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed Death at the Dance! I haven't read the first Lady Eleanor Swift mystery, but I didn't feel lost or scattered at all. Bright has created a fascinating protagonist, Eleanor is witty and entertaining and intelligent. The supporting cast is also a lot of fun, and you have many characters to root for and root against. (Clifford the butler and Gladstone the bulldog are definitely the highlights of the book for me!) This is an excellent cozy mystery- it isn't too cheesy or easy to solve, but also not too gruesome or psychological. All in all, a wonderful read!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed Death at the Dance! I haven't read the first Lady Eleanor Swift mystery, but I didn't feel lost or scattered at all. Bright has created a fascinating protagonist, Eleanor is witty and entertaining and intelligent. The supporting cast is also a lot of fun, and you have many characters to root for and root against. (Clifford the butler and Gladstone the bulldog are definitely the highlights of the book for me!) This is an excellent cozy mystery- it isn't too cheesy or easy to solve, but also not too gruesome or psychological. All in all, a wonderful read!
August 8, 2020
Golden Age cozy mystery written in a lighthearted manner that should entertain some. I was looking for something opposite of heavy for my trip downtown to the dentist and I got it. This book is the second of a series, but I am not inclined to go back to the beginning nor follow on to the next.
What I liked: the pairing of a Lady (and she is young) with a butler as the local crime busters.
There was a lot I did not like, so that's that. It was fine for waiting in the dental office. I suppose it is not fair, because I was transported to a very happy state after my appointment by visiting the Art Institute as a member and getting the enormous place almost to myself. It was a wonderful treat, not to be compared to a cozy mystery.
Kindle Unlimited
What I liked: the pairing of a Lady (and she is young) with a butler as the local crime busters.
There was a lot I did not like, so that's that. It was fine for waiting in the dental office. I suppose it is not fair, because I was transported to a very happy state after my appointment by visiting the Art Institute as a member and getting the enormous place almost to myself. It was a wonderful treat, not to be compared to a cozy mystery.
Kindle Unlimited
January 9, 2021
I'm afraid I very much struggled reading Death at the Dance, and almost DNF'd it. I'll break down why I found it so hard to read, and finish with what I did enjoy.
Despite being billed as a historical mystery, Death at the Dance puts quite a few feet wrong in the accuracy department. Only a few pages in, Eleanor wears a dress belonging to her mother which is over 20 years old, and is unlikely to be appropriate for the 1920s. That's a small misstep, but a larger one is the language used throughout. Even bright young things seem unlikely to say "I get that" , "okay" or "his beef" (not referring to food, and used twice!). I might have forgiven this, but the author is evidently trying to represent 20s speech, with lots of "bally" and ",what!" sprinkled throughout her dialogue.
Plot wise, I found it hard to be invested for the central 60% of the book, as nothing much seemed to happen and I kept confusing the characters. Whilst I found the story more readable once Eleanor had infiltrated the gang of young people at the centre of the mystery, when I reached the conclusion I was completely uninvested in whodunnit.
However, I did appreciate the banter between Eleanor and her Butler, and smiled at their Jeeves and Worcester -esque reparte from time to time. There were some fun character traits and this was often linked to food, which I found both charming and realistic.
From a world building perspective, the outdoor spaces are magnificently described, and whilst I couldn't picture the ballroom or Eleanor's room clearly, I could easily imagine her eating a picnic in her garden.
I've rated Death at the Dance two stars, and I'm aware that I'm very much in the minority with that rating! I think unfortunately it rubbed me up the wrong way and didn't capture my imagination enough to make up for that. I'm grateful to Bookouture who sent me a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
Despite being billed as a historical mystery, Death at the Dance puts quite a few feet wrong in the accuracy department. Only a few pages in, Eleanor wears a dress belonging to her mother which is over 20 years old, and is unlikely to be appropriate for the 1920s. That's a small misstep, but a larger one is the language used throughout. Even bright young things seem unlikely to say "I get that" , "okay" or "his beef" (not referring to food, and used twice!). I might have forgiven this, but the author is evidently trying to represent 20s speech, with lots of "bally" and ",what!" sprinkled throughout her dialogue.
Plot wise, I found it hard to be invested for the central 60% of the book, as nothing much seemed to happen and I kept confusing the characters. Whilst I found the story more readable once Eleanor had infiltrated the gang of young people at the centre of the mystery, when I reached the conclusion I was completely uninvested in whodunnit.
However, I did appreciate the banter between Eleanor and her Butler, and smiled at their Jeeves and Worcester -esque reparte from time to time. There were some fun character traits and this was often linked to food, which I found both charming and realistic.
From a world building perspective, the outdoor spaces are magnificently described, and whilst I couldn't picture the ballroom or Eleanor's room clearly, I could easily imagine her eating a picnic in her garden.
I've rated Death at the Dance two stars, and I'm aware that I'm very much in the minority with that rating! I think unfortunately it rubbed me up the wrong way and didn't capture my imagination enough to make up for that. I'm grateful to Bookouture who sent me a complimentary copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 23, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the second book in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery series by Verity Bright.
I have to say right off the bat that I was not sad that Lance Langham had to spend most of the book in jai. Truthfully, he seems like more of a sidekick character than a love interest. I am surely rooting for DCI Seldon to fill that true love slot. Definitely on Team Seldon. That part at the end where he warns her and then lets her go, I think my heart just squeezed for his pain. And Eleanor just seemed so oblivious to it. I am not certain what she sees in Lance. I mean, seriously!
I love the character of the butler, Clifford. He is just the best and probably a better sidekick than Lance would ever be. I guess I would put Lance as the comedy relief since that is all he really is for me.
Lance is caught red handed as he attempts to steal his parent’s jewels and blame a thief that has been frequenting the same parties as he and his Bright Young Things group. His parents are in dire financial straights and need the insurance money. I am not sure why the dunderhead just didn’t sell his pretty expensive plane to get the money instead of turning to a life of crime. Anyway, he gets framed for murder while trying to steal the jewels and is sent straight to jail much to DCI Seldon’s pleasure.
I like that Eleanor stands up for her friends and goes to great lengths to prove their innocence but I still have a hard time buying a love story between these two.
Overall, a great read. The mystery is spot on with lots of twists and turns and the characters are ones you look forward to knowing about.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
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.
This is the second book in the Lady Eleanor Swift mystery series by Verity Bright.
I have to say right off the bat that I was not sad that Lance Langham had to spend most of the book in jai. Truthfully, he seems like more of a sidekick character than a love interest. I am surely rooting for DCI Seldon to fill that true love slot. Definitely on Team Seldon. That part at the end where he warns her and then lets her go, I think my heart just squeezed for his pain. And Eleanor just seemed so oblivious to it. I am not certain what she sees in Lance. I mean, seriously!
I love the character of the butler, Clifford. He is just the best and probably a better sidekick than Lance would ever be. I guess I would put Lance as the comedy relief since that is all he really is for me.
Lance is caught red handed as he attempts to steal his parent’s jewels and blame a thief that has been frequenting the same parties as he and his Bright Young Things group. His parents are in dire financial straights and need the insurance money. I am not sure why the dunderhead just didn’t sell his pretty expensive plane to get the money instead of turning to a life of crime. Anyway, he gets framed for murder while trying to steal the jewels and is sent straight to jail much to DCI Seldon’s pleasure.
I like that Eleanor stands up for her friends and goes to great lengths to prove their innocence but I still have a hard time buying a love story between these two.
Overall, a great read. The mystery is spot on with lots of twists and turns and the characters are ones you look forward to knowing about.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
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.
December 12, 2020
I needed a bit of a break from grisly murder and emotional reads, so I was happy to return to this second in a series featuring Lady Eleanor Swift set in 1920s England. I adore this historical period and love the details of life during that time. This cozy mystery was exactly the tonic I needed.
In this installment, Lady Swift is attending a masked ball at the manor owned by the parents of her new love interest, Lance Langham. While there, she ends up stumbling upon Lance bending over a recently murdered guest, holding a heavy silver candlestick, and some very valuable family jewels missing from the safe. As (bad) luck would have it, the police find them immediately and arrest Lance on the spot for murder and burglary. Eleanor, along with her trusty butler and friend, Clifford, must clear his name. NO SPOILERS.
The thing is, some of this is outright funny. The interaction and friendship between Eleanor and Clifford makes me laugh because she is no typical English Lady and he is no normal manservant. I like the characters and the story moved along very quickly with lots of action and quite a few suspects. I look forward to the next in the series, but unfortunately I don't have a copy of #3, so I will be skipping along to the fourth straightaway. Enjoy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
In this installment, Lady Swift is attending a masked ball at the manor owned by the parents of her new love interest, Lance Langham. While there, she ends up stumbling upon Lance bending over a recently murdered guest, holding a heavy silver candlestick, and some very valuable family jewels missing from the safe. As (bad) luck would have it, the police find them immediately and arrest Lance on the spot for murder and burglary. Eleanor, along with her trusty butler and friend, Clifford, must clear his name. NO SPOILERS.
The thing is, some of this is outright funny. The interaction and friendship between Eleanor and Clifford makes me laugh because she is no typical English Lady and he is no normal manservant. I like the characters and the story moved along very quickly with lots of action and quite a few suspects. I look forward to the next in the series, but unfortunately I don't have a copy of #3, so I will be skipping along to the fourth straightaway. Enjoy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review, and recommend.
May 14, 2024
Death at the Dance is book 2 in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mysteries and, for my money, it didn't quite hit the high-notes that the first book did. Although still enjoyable, I found the flow of the story was somewhat off-kilter due to the repetitive nature of the middle portion of the book.
The start, obviously, sets the scene for the overall plot. Our heroine is off to a costume ball, at which an unknown assailant murders one of the guests. Lady Swift's love interest is caught red-handed at the scene of the crime and what follows should be a whirlwind tale of Lady Swift and her butler getting up to all sorts of hijinks in order to free an innocent man.
What we get is partly that, but predominantly Lady Swift going out partying night in, night out, and doing very little to further the overall plot. These parts felt a little like filler, which is somewhat disappointing in a novel that totals in around the 275 pages mark.
The novel features intriguing characters and a setting I very much enjoy, so I shall certainly be carrying on with the series. It's very much a cozy/comfort read type book. Very easy to slip into and easy to forgive minor issues like the ones above.
The start, obviously, sets the scene for the overall plot. Our heroine is off to a costume ball, at which an unknown assailant murders one of the guests. Lady Swift's love interest is caught red-handed at the scene of the crime and what follows should be a whirlwind tale of Lady Swift and her butler getting up to all sorts of hijinks in order to free an innocent man.
What we get is partly that, but predominantly Lady Swift going out partying night in, night out, and doing very little to further the overall plot. These parts felt a little like filler, which is somewhat disappointing in a novel that totals in around the 275 pages mark.
The novel features intriguing characters and a setting I very much enjoy, so I shall certainly be carrying on with the series. It's very much a cozy/comfort read type book. Very easy to slip into and easy to forgive minor issues like the ones above.
July 13, 2024
3 stars.
Lancelot, Eleanor's possible love interest, is arrested by her other love interest, Detective Chief Inspector Seldon for the murder of a houseguest and the loss of a family necklace. Eleanor and her butler Clifford are asked by Lancelot's parents to solve the murder. The main suspects appeared to be Lancelot's group of friends, the so-called "Bright Young Things". She's invited into the group and we spent quite a bit of book time on a lot of frivolous activities while she narrows down the suspect list.
One of the issues I see in most "cozy" mysteries is that the love interests of the main protagonist tend to be quite dull and boring characters. To me, this book is no exception. Lancelot is portrayed as this devil-may-care, privileged spoiled man-child. Aside for his looks, I don't see the attraction. As for DCI Sheldon, I'm not even sure what his first name is! He has the potential for being a more substantial character but at the moment, there's not much there either. I did enjoy Ellie's interaction with the village people and that theatre group. Hopefully, in the later books, everyone's characters will get developed more.
Lancelot, Eleanor's possible love interest, is arrested by her other love interest, Detective Chief Inspector Seldon for the murder of a houseguest and the loss of a family necklace. Eleanor and her butler Clifford are asked by Lancelot's parents to solve the murder. The main suspects appeared to be Lancelot's group of friends, the so-called "Bright Young Things". She's invited into the group and we spent quite a bit of book time on a lot of frivolous activities while she narrows down the suspect list.
One of the issues I see in most "cozy" mysteries is that the love interests of the main protagonist tend to be quite dull and boring characters. To me, this book is no exception. Lancelot is portrayed as this devil-may-care, privileged spoiled man-child. Aside for his looks, I don't see the attraction. As for DCI Sheldon, I'm not even sure what his first name is! He has the potential for being a more substantial character but at the moment, there's not much there either. I did enjoy Ellie's interaction with the village people and that theatre group. Hopefully, in the later books, everyone's characters will get developed more.
October 29, 2020
This series is set in England in the 1920 and it's a big surprise to me that I love Lady Eleanor and her friends. I'm not a historic fanatic but this one holds my interest and gives me a glimpse of life in post WWI England. This is book 2 of 4 in the Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series and I can't wait for the next 2. Lady Eleanor goes to a ball at the neighbors in time to see their son standing over the dead body of another guest. Now Lance is under arrest for murder and Eleanor must work to prove her boyfriend innocent because the local police believe they have an open and shut case. I love the way Eleanor interacts with all the characters. During this time frame there is such a division of classes between the gentry and their servants. A great read and a wonderful mystery. I rceive4d a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
December 30, 2020
So much fun! Lady Eleanor is fast becoming a favorite
Lady Eleanor, her canine companion Gladstone, and the indomitable Clifford team up for another great mystery - including jewel robberies and murder -this time set amidst the wild set, the “Bright Young Things”, those crazy partying kids of the 1920’s. A great mixture of mystery, humor, intrigue, and excellent historical tidbits - I loved it!
Lady Eleanor, her canine companion Gladstone, and the indomitable Clifford team up for another great mystery - including jewel robberies and murder -this time set amidst the wild set, the “Bright Young Things”, those crazy partying kids of the 1920’s. A great mixture of mystery, humor, intrigue, and excellent historical tidbits - I loved it!
September 15, 2022
Lady Eleanor and another muddled up mystery!
Lady Eleanor is entwined in another murderer mystery, with her trusty butler on her side. This time her sweet friend is in trouble and she is named as his accomplice.
A sweet, cozy, British countryside mystery in early 1900s.
These mysteries remind me of Miss Marple and her cunning insights hidden behind seemingly naive friendliness.
Lady Eleanor is entwined in another murderer mystery, with her trusty butler on her side. This time her sweet friend is in trouble and she is named as his accomplice.
A sweet, cozy, British countryside mystery in early 1900s.
These mysteries remind me of Miss Marple and her cunning insights hidden behind seemingly naive friendliness.
July 15, 2020
More 1920s sleuthing with the vivacious Lady Eleanor
My thanks to Bookouture for a digital edition via NetGalley of ‘Death at the Dance’ by Verity Bright in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second in their series of cosy mysteries featuring Lady Eleanor Swift, who is undertaking a spot of amateur sleuthing in England, 1920.
Eleanor arrives a shocking 15 minutes late for the masked ball at the local manor hosted by Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham, the parents of her new beau, Lancelot. She can’t seem to locate him though while searching the manor opens a door on a shocking scene: Lance standing over the body of Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, a silver candlestick in his hand and the family safe wide open and empty!
Moments later, the police burst in led by DCI Seldon and Lance is arrested for murder and for burglary, not only for this instance but for a string of similar burglaries. Eleanor is convinced that Lance is innocent and with him locked up awaiting trial she knows that she has to clear his name.
She decides to take a closer look at Lance’s friends from Oxford - a set of ‘bright young things’, high society types who drive fast, drink even faster, and have a taste for mayhem and mischief. Frankly, they came across as a group of obnoxious upper class oiks and the fact that these are Lancelot‘s pals made me like him even less.
I appreciate Eleanor wanting to clear Lance’s name but what on Earth does she see in him? His upper class twit way of speaking reminds me of Blotto, Simon Brett’s handsome but dim aristocratic sleuth from his farcical ‘Blotto and Twinks’ series of whodunnits set in the same period.
The recent Great War and flu pandemic continue to be ignored - aside from an off-the-cuff remark about the sad state of British male fashion and how would this look when the Germans get up to ‘old tricks again’ made by the soon-to-be-deceased but clearly prescient Colonel.
It appears that indeed throughout the 1920s younger members of the aristocracy and the like, who had been too young to fight and who were traumatised by the slaughter of so many young men, adopted a wild Bohemian lifestyle that was all about seizing the day - Carpe Diem. They were dubbed by the tabloid press as ‘Bright Young Things’ and became immortalised in the works of authors such as Evelyn Waugh, Nancy Mitford, and Anthony Powell.
While this is a frothy slice of cosy fun, I don’t feel that acknowledging the reality of the period would necessarily bring down the playful atmosphere. Again, a personal niggle unlikely to bother most readers.
Eleanor is accompanied in her sleuthing by her ageing bulldog, Gladstone, and her late uncle’s butler, Clifford, who is a fount of knowledge and extremely resourceful.
While pleased that Lancelot was off-stage, I wanted more of DCI Seldon in the story. Frankly, I much prefer him as a suitor for Lady Eleanor though she seems quite keen on pretty playboy Lancelot.
Again, this was great fun and I was completely stumped as to whodunnit until the final reveal. I have a number of friends addicted to cosies and will be recommending that they pick up this book and series. It’s the kind of novel that is ideal for a few hours of escapism.
I was pleased to read that Book 3, ‘A Witness to Murder’, will be published in September.
My thanks to Bookouture for a digital edition via NetGalley of ‘Death at the Dance’ by Verity Bright in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second in their series of cosy mysteries featuring Lady Eleanor Swift, who is undertaking a spot of amateur sleuthing in England, 1920.
Eleanor arrives a shocking 15 minutes late for the masked ball at the local manor hosted by Lord and Lady Fenwick-Langham, the parents of her new beau, Lancelot. She can’t seem to locate him though while searching the manor opens a door on a shocking scene: Lance standing over the body of Colonel Puddifoot-Barton, a silver candlestick in his hand and the family safe wide open and empty!
Moments later, the police burst in led by DCI Seldon and Lance is arrested for murder and for burglary, not only for this instance but for a string of similar burglaries. Eleanor is convinced that Lance is innocent and with him locked up awaiting trial she knows that she has to clear his name.
She decides to take a closer look at Lance’s friends from Oxford - a set of ‘bright young things’, high society types who drive fast, drink even faster, and have a taste for mayhem and mischief. Frankly, they came across as a group of obnoxious upper class oiks and the fact that these are Lancelot‘s pals made me like him even less.
I appreciate Eleanor wanting to clear Lance’s name but what on Earth does she see in him? His upper class twit way of speaking reminds me of Blotto, Simon Brett’s handsome but dim aristocratic sleuth from his farcical ‘Blotto and Twinks’ series of whodunnits set in the same period.
The recent Great War and flu pandemic continue to be ignored - aside from an off-the-cuff remark about the sad state of British male fashion and how would this look when the Germans get up to ‘old tricks again’ made by the soon-to-be-deceased but clearly prescient Colonel.
It appears that indeed throughout the 1920s younger members of the aristocracy and the like, who had been too young to fight and who were traumatised by the slaughter of so many young men, adopted a wild Bohemian lifestyle that was all about seizing the day - Carpe Diem. They were dubbed by the tabloid press as ‘Bright Young Things’ and became immortalised in the works of authors such as Evelyn Waugh, Nancy Mitford, and Anthony Powell.
While this is a frothy slice of cosy fun, I don’t feel that acknowledging the reality of the period would necessarily bring down the playful atmosphere. Again, a personal niggle unlikely to bother most readers.
Eleanor is accompanied in her sleuthing by her ageing bulldog, Gladstone, and her late uncle’s butler, Clifford, who is a fount of knowledge and extremely resourceful.
While pleased that Lancelot was off-stage, I wanted more of DCI Seldon in the story. Frankly, I much prefer him as a suitor for Lady Eleanor though she seems quite keen on pretty playboy Lancelot.
Again, this was great fun and I was completely stumped as to whodunnit until the final reveal. I have a number of friends addicted to cosies and will be recommending that they pick up this book and series. It’s the kind of novel that is ideal for a few hours of escapism.
I was pleased to read that Book 3, ‘A Witness to Murder’, will be published in September.
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