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A country escape turns into a deadly trap when Electra Poole is accused of murder.

When an old friend, Lady Alice Kirkham, invites Electra to her family's country estate, she welcomes the chance to escape London’s bustle and the persona she's carefully cultivated as a medium to the upper crust. Alice knew Electra before she made a living from séances, and a visit to Oxfordshire offers a rare chance to step away from it all.

But when a young man vanishes, Alice becomes the prime suspect, and Electra’s attempts to help only pull her deeper into the scandal. Then a body is discovered, and she realizes someone is orchestrating a deadly game.

With her reputation crumbling and the authorities closing in, Electra turns to the one man she swore never to trust with her secrets—Detective Inspector Gideon Pierce. Though they always clash, he believes in her innocence. But as they unravel a tangled web of deception, one thing becomes the real killer isn’t just covering their tracks, they’re setting Electra up to take the fall.

259 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 17, 2026

56 people are currently reading
1257 people want to read

About the author

Christy Carlyle

58 books569 followers
Fueled by Pacific Northwest coffee and inspired by multiple viewings of every British costume drama she can get her hands on, USA Today bestselling author Christy Carlyle writes sensual historical romance set in the Victorian era. She loves heroes who struggle against all odds and heroines who are ahead of their time. A former teacher with a degree in history, she finds there's nothing better than being able to combine her love of the past with a die-hard belief in happy endings.

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,624 reviews17 followers
February 18, 2026
House party turns deadly

This one starts a little slow as Electra is at loose ends. After the events from the first book she’s gained great notoriety and has withdrawn from her business of giving readings. A note from an old friend from school seems just the thing to clear her head and maybe give her new direction until there’s a murder. Thrust into a tangled web of lies and misdeeds Electra is unsure what to do or how to help. When Inspector Pierce arrives she’s once again working with him and the rather officious local constabulary to get to the truth. Is the easy answer the right one? Why was Electra summoned to this party? What secrets still lay hidden and can she and Gideon uncover them before it’s too late?
Great read! Love the duel pov between Electra and Gideon. Gave the story more depth as we get to see more through two sets of eyes. I definitely had a funny feeling about this party as did our two investigators but I had no idea it would turn out like this! Lots of twists and some shocking surprises all make for a fascinating mystery!
Profile Image for Fanosse23.
710 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 16, 2026
A peaceful country escape quickly spirals into a deadly game in A Deadly Invitation, the second electrifying installment of the Electra Poole Mystery Series by Christy Carlyle. What begins as a simple reunion with her old school friend, Lady Alice Kirkham, at her charming country estate soon becomes anything but relaxing for Electra Poole.

From the very start, Electra senses danger simmering beneath the genteel surface of the house. Electra observes Alice’s fiancé raise his hand to Alice projecting that he has a bad temper and violent tendencies toward Alice. Electra is determined to observe Lord Henry Lockhart and when Alice asks her to sit next to him at the scheduled seance so she can hold his hand to determine his true feelings for Alice she agrees. But the night ends in shock: Lord Lockhart is found dead, and the whispers of murder spread like wildfire.

When Gideon hears about the murder, ever loyal and protective, he rushes to Oxford to support Electra and soon joins forces with Constable Ormsbee to unravel the sinister truth. The investigation uncovers Lord Lockhart’s dark history of abusing women and a tangle of secrets among the guests, each with a potential motive for murder. Unfortunately, as the investigation moves forward, all indications seem to point to Electra. Just as the tension reaches its peak, another body turns up, and the stakes skyrocket.

Carlyle masterfully keeps readers on edge as Electra and Gideon navigate suspicion, danger, and the sting of betrayal—all while denying the spark of affection that burns brighter with every shared glance. The twists and revelations ensure you’ll be guessing to the very end, each secret deepening the sense of treachery. When the ultimate betrayal is revealed, it strikes as sharply as the murderer’s identity, making the mystery even more gripping and emotionally charged.

Carlyle’s storytelling lingers long after the final page, leaving me eager to revisit Electra Poole’s world again soon.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,379 reviews119 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 15, 2026
A Deadly Invitation by Christy Carlyle
Electra Poole Mystery #2

~ Excellent addition to a series I am thoroughly enjoying ~ Electra & Gideon have a bright future solving cases and hopefully finding a HEA together ~

What I liked:
* Electra Poole: senses emotions, sees visions, sometimes hears words in the visions, refining her skills, mother was institutionalized for similar abilities, loved & hated her father for what he did to her mother, has known Gideon for years and is attracted to him
* Gideon Pierce: Detective Inspector, taken in by and mentored by Electra’s father, controlled, well dressed and spoken, bright, protective, follows his gut and the evidence, attracted to Electra and is looking forward to spending more time with her
* That Gideon and Electra know one another well and are able to build on the past to create a stronger relationship in the present
* The paranormal element of the story and wanting to see how Electra’s abilities develop through the series
* The police procedural aspects of the story, following the clues, and finding out that sometimes there is more to the story than expected
* The plot, pacing, setting, and writing that had me invested in the characters, story, and the resolution of the murder
* That all of the threads were tied up at the end of the story and the murderer caught
* Knowing that there will be another book to read in the future

What I didn’t like:
* The ease with which the killer committed and got away with his crimes before he was murdered
* Thinking about how someone would willingly plot and commit some of the crimes in this story
* Wondering what the penalty for murder was in this era and what part social status might play in the sentence handed down – hangman’s noose or???

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to the Author, Oliver Heber, and Booksprout for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Profile Image for Natalie.
280 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 15, 2026
Electra Poole is a bit at loose ends. She successfully solved a high society murder, but she’s been struggling to accept her gift since then. She decides to accept an invitation to a house party with two friends from school. When she arrives tensions are high and an older and much-loved relative is missing. Soon, the Lady is found with a few scratches, but otherwise fine. Then Electra learns a seance is planned and she receives a strange request from her hostess, and it’s not a request to lead the seance. Soon, the hostess’ intended husband is found murdered and the house is in an uproar. When Electra’s old friend, Scotland Yard Inspector Gideon Pierce, learns of the murder he high tails it to the house party where local law enforcement embraces his assistance to find the killer before it’s too late.

“A Deadly Invitation,” book two in Christy Carlyle’s Electra Poole series, is a page-turner. The relationships between the characters are complicated and one of them turns out to be a monster. Underlying all of this is Electra’s desire to embrace her visions to help others coupled with grave concern that others could interpret her as insane. This story explores the ways that men could, and did, control women.

This story is great for readers who enjoy historical mysteries, historical mysteries with slow burn romance, or historical mysteries with a touch of the paranormal. This story could be read as a standalone, but would be better read as part of the series.

I received an advance review copy for free from Oliver Heber Books via BookSprout , and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,390 reviews
February 24, 2026
4.25/5 stars

This second in series was every bit as great as its predecessor. I'm hooked!

I always love a good country house setting in historicals, and this book finds Electra called to a school friend's house for a sudden visit. Of course, murder ensues and when Detective Inspector Gideon Pierce hears of the murder, knowing that Electra is visiting, he sets off to offer his assistance to the local law enforcement in the investigation (and to watch over Electra).

The plotline here is a bit convoluted at times as the reader is led back and forth between possible suspects until the final denouement reveals all. However, I didn't really mind that as it kept the suspense high and the relationships of the side characters always a surprise. Just a bit of extra info, it is a bit of a darker story. There are sexual assaults (alluded to, not on page) so just a heads up on that.

I find the relationship between Electra and Gideon fascinating (their past and their reconnection in the present). They are both sympathetic characters who have endured past trials and tribulations, but whose bond has not seemed to lessen even in their absence from each other's lives. It's interesting to watch as Gideon struggles to understand Electra's "visions" but also gratifying to see his unwavering trust and belief in her. The author has done a great job of easing into their reunion with a bit of tension but also with a steadfast fondness at the remembrance of their childhood friendship.

I'm excited to have discovered this series, and I look forward to watching more of the Electra/Gideon adventures unfold.
Profile Image for Nanna.
1,247 reviews5 followers
February 19, 2026
This is my first time reading this series, I am going back and read book one for sure. So yes, you can read them out of order but probably best read in order. This book has so many twists and turns alone with the mystery, suspense and long cast of characters who are all interwoven, either family or old friends. Electra receives an invitation from an old school friend to visit her county estate. Lady Alice and Electra went to school together; Alice's aunt Gertrude is one of her favorite people. She is looking forward to the quiet of the country to escaping everything going on in her life in London. Unfortunately, nothing goes as plans as on her first night a nobleman is killed and Alice is a suspect. Electra has seen and overheard some very strange things since she got there. There is a feeling of tension among the guests. As they try to find out what is going on, her friend Detective Gideon Pierce show’s up worried about her. He is asked by the local police to help with the case and so began a lot of intrigue and suspense and lots of questions as all the people there have more going on then, they want others to know. Electra will need all her second sight to help solve the murder along with Gideon as they face several lies and hidden facts. Wow, what a read, I couldn’t put it down which led to a late night. I can’t wait for the next book to see where Gideon and Electra growing attractions leads them. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
531 reviews8 followers
February 27, 2026

Friends

This second book could be read as a standalone, but the first book is worth reading in its own right. Uncertainty plagues Electra about using her gift since her last case placed her under public scrutiny. In this story she’s dealing with that, her anger towards her deceased father and her avoidance of Gideon with whom she shared a large portion of her childhood. The author reveals Electra’s confusion about their relationship while simultaneously revealing Gideon’s hope for something beyond friendship. Believing friendships should be treasured, Electra accepts an invitation from a friend to visit her. It is during this visit that she comes to realize which friendship carries more importance.
The author has readers wrapped up in an intricate murder mystery almost immediately. No motives but one suspect seems transparent…almost too transparent. Read how Gideon learns of her involvement in this new case and how he intends to assist his “friend” in her time of need. I really enjoyed how complex and difficult it is for detectives of this era to ascertain the real criminal without CSI technology. 😜
Highly recommended as a good old fashioned mystery with the hope that this real slow burn romance catches fire at some point.
I have received an ARC from the author and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,530 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy
February 14, 2026
Lady Alice Kirkham, invites Electra to her family's country estate, she accepts and is drawn immediately into family drama and mystery!
When Alice’s fiancé raises a hand to Alice Electra is appalled and senses violence in Lord Henry Lockhart a Viscount.
The Viscount is found deceased not too many days later and as the investigation unfolds has a very long history of violence to other women!
There are too many suspects and when Gideon learns of the Viscounts murder he takes the next train to Oxford his protective instincts on high alert!
Together they seek the truth working with Constable Ormsbee a somewhat pompous man who takes facts at face value!
When the clues seem to neatly tied up for Gideon and Electra shocking clues lead to betrayal of a fragile friendship that Electra held.
Can two people plan such horrendous acts! When there is a second murder and bottle out of the local doctor’s bag is missing it is clear there is a cold blooded murder or two on the loose!
This is another thrilling conclusion to murder mysteries! It is a page turner but also hints at a deeper friendship/relationship ahead for Gideon and Electra! Bravo very well done!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion from Booksprout!
Profile Image for Charmaine Fernando.
438 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 15, 2026
Following an invitation to a country party by Lady Alice Kirkham, an old friend from school, Electra decides to seize the opportunity to get away from London for a few weeks at least and catch up with her friend.

Upon arrival, the two manage to catch up and Lady Alice introduces Electra to her fiancé - Lord Henry Lockhart. While there, Lord Henry is murdered and a closer investigation indicates not only did he abuse Lady Alice physically but has a long history of abusing other women!

While Electra decides to investigate the murder, all clues seem to point to her as the perpetrator! She decides to invite police inspector Gideon Pierce to assist with the investigation as he is the only person who believes in Electra's innocence! The two of them, together with Constable Ormsbee work together to bring the guilty to justice.

Another murder is discovered which only makes things much more complicated. At the same time, Electra's and Gideon's chemistry is growing stronger and such a pleasure to read. Cannot wait for Book 3!

I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
1,285 reviews16 followers
February 24, 2026
An Invitation to Murder
When Electra receives an invitation to a country house party from an old friend, she hopes it will offer a welcome escape—from her last investigation and from the attention surrounding her psychic abilities. A few quiet days in the countryside should be exactly what she needs.
Instead, the invitation turns deadly.
When a guest is murdered soon after her arrival, Electra once again finds herself drawn into an investigation she never meant to lead. In a house filled with secrets and carefully maintained façades, no one is above suspicion.
When Gideon learns that Electra’s retreat has become a crime scene, he comes to her aid. Though he once doubted her abilities, he now trusts her instincts, and together they set out to identify a killer hiding in plain sight.
The twists and turns kept me guessing, and the tension builds as it becomes clear the first victim may not be the last. With its country-house setting, layered suspects, and steady sense of intrigue, this was an engaging historical murder mystery. I would recommend it to readers who enjoy classic whodunits with a touch of the paranormal.
Profile Image for Robin Smith.
329 reviews3 followers
February 18, 2026
Electra Poole is invited to spend a few days in the country with her friend Lady Alice Kirkham. Electra is surprised that a house party is taking place, and there are others acquaintances from the past, as well as Alice’s fiance and his brother. When Electra is reluctantly drawn into a seance, and a murder takes place, she is not sure why she was really invited, and if her psychic gift will help her find the truth. Inspector Gideon Pierce hears of the death and Electra’s presence at the site, and jumps in to help.
Great atmospheric mystery with lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing! Electra and Gideon must work together, she must overcome her fear and learn to control her power, and he must keep an open mind in regard to her abilities. A definite page-turner, I am looking forward to the next mystery!
I received a free copy via Booksprout, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Christa Johnson.
92 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 7, 2026
Electra Poole is trying to come to terms with her unusual psychic abilities when her friend Alice invites her to country house party. Electra is happy to escape London and the notoriety she received after using her abilities to help solve a murder. Immediately upon arriving Electra senses that something is off with Alice but before she can find out more, Alice's fiance is murdered. Electra's old friend and police inspector Gideon Pierce soon arrives to help the locals investigate. Electra and Gideon discover that there were mulitple guests with motive to kill Alice's fiance and that the murderer is certainly one of them. This book had great period details and a twisty mystery that was fun to unravel.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
770 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy
February 9, 2026
Electra is delighted when her friend Alice invites her to visit. Once there, she reacquaints herself with her friends from her school days as well as meeting Alice's fiancé. The next night a seance is scheduled and it is during it that Alice's fiancé is discovered dead. Electra is unsettled by the strange behavior of some of the guests so she is excited to see her friend from home Inspector Gideon Pierce arrive. Thus begins sifting through the undercurrents to find clues in order to find the killer. Not all is as it seems as they find out. A good mystery that has you guessing until the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,223 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy
February 16, 2026
A Deadly Invitation (Electra Poole Mysteries Book 2) by Christy Carlyle has Electra visiting a friend’s country estate only to encounter murder. Electra will need her observation skills, her psychic abilities while keeping her wits about her to solve this case. She will also need to work with the person she clashes with the most, Detective Inspector Gideon Pierce. Together they make a formidable team.

An edge of the seat mystery with Electra coming into her own more just as Detective Inspector Gideon Pierce protective nature rising to the occasion too. Betrayals, dark secrets, and a villain to be caught it was a page turner, that kept me guessing until the end.
Profile Image for NelleRenn.
1,040 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 17, 2026
Gideon and Electra Are back again and get involved in a complicated murder. Electra is invited to a friend’s house with the hopes she can use some of her psychic ability to find out if her friend’s fiancé really loves her. Before that can happen he is murdered. Gideon reads about the murder and rushes to Electra’s side to make sure she isn’t accused. Together with the local constabulary they work to find the murderer, but then another murder occurs. This mystery is a little difficult to solve, but while they do so their relationship evolves. I found the book hard to put down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
895 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 6, 2026
I so adore Electra and Gideon. The author does a beautiful job of ferreting out her characters, flaws and all. This is one convoluted tale of a who-done-it….spoiler alert…it is NOT the butler. By the time the whole story came out, I was so turned around. The author plots a VERY good mystery along the same lines as Agatha Christie. Truly one that will stay with me a while. I adored the chemistry beginning to simmer a bit as well. Can’t wait for #3!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marilyn .
512 reviews10 followers
February 7, 2026
Electra Poole is finally coming to terms with her psychic abilities, when a friend invites her to come spend a few days with her in the country.

When she arrives, things are not as they seem. When her friend's fiancé is murdered in the garden, Electra calls on Inspector Detective Gideon Pierce to help with the investigation. As they work together, the case becomes more and more complicated.

This is a wonderful mystery with lots of suspects, twists and turns throughout the plot, and will keep you guessing who did it until the end.

I received this book as an ARC, and these are my opinions.
Profile Image for Monica.
409 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 10, 2026
I really enjoyed the second book in this series. It furthers the relationship between Electra and Gideon as they have to find the true murderers of a nobleman.

Electra is invited to a house party at a friend’s country home. When she arrives, there are several people she knows. Little does she know that someone with murderous intent and close to her has planned for her to attend the party.

She must use her abilities to try to figure out the truth behind the murder.

This is a great series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dominique Englebert.
593 reviews5 followers
February 19, 2026
The cost of impunity
When Electra is invited by Alice, a good friend from their school days, little does she know that she will be plunged in a murder investigation, trying to prove the innocence of her friend. However, she will discover a whole snake nest of betrayal, blackmail and abuse.
Will she be able to untangle these mysteries and discover the culprit or culprits?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jessica.
989 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy
February 8, 2026
She accepted an invite to visit and ended up to her eyeballs in a murder mystery. Engrossing read featuring her skills and his experience to solve an unexpected death with an unexpected ending. Highly recommended read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
459 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2026
A well written and deeply involved mystery from one of my favorite writers. The characters are personable, have depth and good chemistry. The plot engaging. Overall one I couldn't put down until the bitter end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
429 reviews3 followers
February 20, 2026
This second book in this series is just as good as the first. I keep wishing Electra could see more with her ability, but she is only now accepting it and needs more practice. The relationship between her and Gideon is still a bit strained, but he is trying to accept what she is, and does allow her to help the investigation as much as he can.
702 reviews17 followers
February 19, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book. This was a story that quickly pulled me in. I found plenty of twists and turns and I will be watching for more books by this author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
483 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2026
A great story filled with mystery and interesting characters. It was very well written, and it kept me entertained. I was able to follow along with the story, and it was worth reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,192 reviews30 followers
March 3, 2026
More murder…

Electra makes her living holding seance's. She’s st a house party, and of course there’s a murder that her friend is implicated. Gideon is drawn into the intrigue. I like that he believes Electra and supports her (unlike a certain Duke).
Recommend.
Profile Image for Michelle Red Bear.
57 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2026
I enjoyed the time period, the mystery, the slow burn romance, friendships and Electra coming to a better sense of peace with her abilities. This is one of those up all night quick reads.
Profile Image for Rowan Creech.
1,580 reviews14 followers
February 23, 2026
This was another fantastic book by this author. I adore the main character and the dynamic between the two leads really adds depth to the twists and turns of the plot. It’s a must-read.
33 reviews
March 4, 2026
Intense mystery

This author is an excellent writer. I feel that they are actually real people and not just characters in a book.
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