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1920s Murder Mystery #1
Blackmail in Bloomsbury: A 1920s Murder Mystery
Everyone at the party had a secret. Someone killed to keep theirs. London, 1922. Draper’s daughter Marjorie Swallow is 24, independent, and determined to live life to the full. A secretarial post with enigmatic American detective Mrs Jameson looks just the ticket. And soon she’s in the thick of it. When the bohemian party they attend ends in murder, there is no shortage of suspects. Half of Bloomsbury wanted Mrs Norris dead – but who wielded the knife? Was it the handsome but troubled artist? The vivacious young actress? Or even the aristocratic lady novelist? Marjorie and Mrs Jameson must find the true killer to save an innocent man from the noose.
From the garden squares of Bloomsbury to the seedy backstreets of Soho, they navigate the glamour and peril of Jazz Age London in a thrilling story of secrets and lies. Marjorie needs all her wit, pluck and charm in this perilous hunt for the killer. This classic murder mystery will keep you guessing to the final tick. The first in the 1920s Murder Mystery series, Blackmail in Bloomsbury will delight fans of Agatha Christie, Magda Alexander and Benedict Brown.
From the garden squares of Bloomsbury to the seedy backstreets of Soho, they navigate the glamour and peril of Jazz Age London in a thrilling story of secrets and lies. Marjorie needs all her wit, pluck and charm in this perilous hunt for the killer. This classic murder mystery will keep you guessing to the final tick. The first in the 1920s Murder Mystery series, Blackmail in Bloomsbury will delight fans of Agatha Christie, Magda Alexander and Benedict Brown.
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First published October 5, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 28, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyable book with a spunky main character. I love the 1920s London setting!
October 13, 2025
4 Cozy Mystery Stars
Blackmail in Bloomsbury was a fast, entertaining listen. The audio was top notch and I almost listened to this book straight through. The characters were developed in a way that gave hints to background depth that will be explored in the overall series arc while fully anchoring them into this particular story. I really liked Majorie and she only did one TSTL thing that she immediately learned from (shocking! an FMC that learns from her missteps) and her employer, private detective from America but lived on the European Continent since young adulthood, Mrs Jameson, seems to have a mysterious background that will be a driving series plot point going forward.
The mystery in Blackmail in Bloomsbury was interesting and while you quickly understand WHY someone would want to murder the victim, their were multiple avenues to motives and suspects and even other crimes. The author really packed a lot into the story and yet it didn't feel too convoluted or hard to follow via audio (which can happen with some mysteries) and I overall just had a really good time.
Blackmail in Bloomsbury was a fast, entertaining listen. The audio was top notch and I almost listened to this book straight through. The characters were developed in a way that gave hints to background depth that will be explored in the overall series arc while fully anchoring them into this particular story. I really liked Majorie and she only did one TSTL thing that she immediately learned from (shocking! an FMC that learns from her missteps) and her employer, private detective from America but lived on the European Continent since young adulthood, Mrs Jameson, seems to have a mysterious background that will be a driving series plot point going forward.
The mystery in Blackmail in Bloomsbury was interesting and while you quickly understand WHY someone would want to murder the victim, their were multiple avenues to motives and suspects and even other crimes. The author really packed a lot into the story and yet it didn't feel too convoluted or hard to follow via audio (which can happen with some mysteries) and I overall just had a really good time.
September 24, 2023
Having thoroughly enjoyed Anna Sayburn Lane’s contemporary Helen Oddfellow series of literary mysteries, I was excited to dive into her first foray into historical fiction. Blackmail in Bloomsbury is the first outing for Marjorie Swallow, newly appointed assistant to Mrs Iris Jameson, an American private investigator recently arrived in 1920s London.
When draper’s daughter Marjorie attends her first Bloomsbury party, she’s worried that the conversation of Bluestocking historian and professor of economic history Eileen Power and her bohemian set of artists, actors, and intellectuals might fly straight over her head. But when an evening of stimulating conversation and lively dancing ends in murder most horrid, Marjorie soon realises that even the most glamorous of lives can be touched by darkness. It soon emerges that the victim, Betty Norris, was a blackmailer. But who was she targeting? And what secrets do Marjorie’s new friends possess that would be worth killing for?
Blackmail in Bloomsbury is a light and entertaining mystery in the classic ‘golden age’ vein. Marjorie’s employer, the indominatable Mrs Iris Jameson, has more than a touch of the Agatha Christie’s about her, whilst Marjorie herself soon realises she’s more of a Sherlock than a Watson. Ably assisted by Inspector Peter Chadwick of Scotland Yard and supplied with tea, cocktails, and information by the smoothly efficient Graham Hargreaves of the Ritz Hotel, Iris and Marjorie are soon scoring the streets of London uncovering long-buried secrets, nefarious dealings, and clandestine back-street businesses.
Anna Sayburn Lane has done a fantastic job of bringing 1920s London to life. From the drawing rooms of bohemian Bloomsbury to the elegance of the Italian Rooftop Gardens, the sights and sounds of post-war London leapt off the page. Beneath the glitz and the glamour though, the horrors of the trenches cast long shadows and the novel isn’t afraid to examine the aftermath of the First World War upon Marjorie and her generation, or to illustrate how poverty and glamour often live side by side on London’s streets.
That said, the tone of Blackmail in Bloomsbury is definitely towards the ‘cosy’ end of the historical crime spectrum. As with any murder mystery there is, of course, a murder but although the method is rather gruesome, there’s very little by way of violence or blood on the page. Whilst our protagonists encounter some very nasty characters, they’re rarely in anything more than mild peril although content advisories should be noted for period-typical homophobia, discussions of mental illness, a suicide attempt, some physical violence, and infidelity.
Overall, I really enjoyed Blackmail in Bloomsbury. Marjorie is a delightful protagonist and I loved seeing her develop confidence in her own detective abilities as the novel progressed. I’m also really keen to see the relationships develop between the core cast of characters, and to find our more about Mrs Jamieson’s past and her relationship with Inspector Chadwick. A solid start to a promising new series, I can’t wait to see what Anna Sayburn Lane has in store for Marjorie and her friends next!
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
When draper’s daughter Marjorie attends her first Bloomsbury party, she’s worried that the conversation of Bluestocking historian and professor of economic history Eileen Power and her bohemian set of artists, actors, and intellectuals might fly straight over her head. But when an evening of stimulating conversation and lively dancing ends in murder most horrid, Marjorie soon realises that even the most glamorous of lives can be touched by darkness. It soon emerges that the victim, Betty Norris, was a blackmailer. But who was she targeting? And what secrets do Marjorie’s new friends possess that would be worth killing for?
Blackmail in Bloomsbury is a light and entertaining mystery in the classic ‘golden age’ vein. Marjorie’s employer, the indominatable Mrs Iris Jameson, has more than a touch of the Agatha Christie’s about her, whilst Marjorie herself soon realises she’s more of a Sherlock than a Watson. Ably assisted by Inspector Peter Chadwick of Scotland Yard and supplied with tea, cocktails, and information by the smoothly efficient Graham Hargreaves of the Ritz Hotel, Iris and Marjorie are soon scoring the streets of London uncovering long-buried secrets, nefarious dealings, and clandestine back-street businesses.
Anna Sayburn Lane has done a fantastic job of bringing 1920s London to life. From the drawing rooms of bohemian Bloomsbury to the elegance of the Italian Rooftop Gardens, the sights and sounds of post-war London leapt off the page. Beneath the glitz and the glamour though, the horrors of the trenches cast long shadows and the novel isn’t afraid to examine the aftermath of the First World War upon Marjorie and her generation, or to illustrate how poverty and glamour often live side by side on London’s streets.
That said, the tone of Blackmail in Bloomsbury is definitely towards the ‘cosy’ end of the historical crime spectrum. As with any murder mystery there is, of course, a murder but although the method is rather gruesome, there’s very little by way of violence or blood on the page. Whilst our protagonists encounter some very nasty characters, they’re rarely in anything more than mild peril although content advisories should be noted for period-typical homophobia, discussions of mental illness, a suicide attempt, some physical violence, and infidelity.
Overall, I really enjoyed Blackmail in Bloomsbury. Marjorie is a delightful protagonist and I loved seeing her develop confidence in her own detective abilities as the novel progressed. I’m also really keen to see the relationships develop between the core cast of characters, and to find our more about Mrs Jamieson’s past and her relationship with Inspector Chadwick. A solid start to a promising new series, I can’t wait to see what Anna Sayburn Lane has in store for Marjorie and her friends next!
NB: This review also appears on my blog at https://theshelfofunreadbooks.wordpre... as part of the blog tour for the book. My thanks go to the publisher for providing a copy of the book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 19, 2024
"Blackmail In Bloomsbury" is book #1 in the "1920s Murder Mystery" series by Anna Sayburn Lane.
"A bohemian party, a handsome artist - and murder. When Marjorie Swallow attends her first Bloomsbury party, she worries the conversation will be over her head. But when the evening ends in murder, she has more pressing concerns. Was the culprit really the handsome young artist she danced the night away with? And why did so many people want Betty Norris dead? From the garden squares of Bloomsbury to the seedy backstreets of Soho, trainee detective Marjorie goes on a perilous hunt for the killer."
My thoughts:
Marjorie Swallow got a bit more than she bargained for when she took the job as personal secretary for American detective Mrs. Jameson.
The guests at the bohemian party are an interesting mix but the inclusion of Mrs. Norris is a bit odd as her pointed questions and side comments put some a bit on edge. Her murder leads to some disturbing revelations, numerous suspects and a lot of questions.
Marjorie quickly proves herself to be a sharp observer in seeing clues. Though her instincts are often good, she does inadvertently put herself in some dangerous situations.
The core characters are interesting, though it seems a bit odd that the detective would be so willing to work with Mrs. Jameson and Marjorie considering it is the 1920's. Even so, the author kept the story moving with some interesting developments, twists and dialogue.
I did suspect there was more going on than just the murder and I had a strong hunch as to who done it well before Marjorie and the others figured it out.
This was an entertaining read and I will be continuing to read this series in the future.
A side note to the author: In the Kindle edition there is a mention of a prequal novella to this series that is available by signing up for your email list. Seriously? I've unsubscribed from a number of author emails over the last few years as I just don't have time to read them. There is also the issue of privacy and email security. A number of authors have lost access to their email lists through hackers and spam over the last few years. Though I'd like to read the novella, I value my privacy more than pumping up your mailing list numbers. Why not just make the Kindle novella available for free or a very small fee on Amazon? More people will see it and may actually increase your book sales in the long run.
"A bohemian party, a handsome artist - and murder. When Marjorie Swallow attends her first Bloomsbury party, she worries the conversation will be over her head. But when the evening ends in murder, she has more pressing concerns. Was the culprit really the handsome young artist she danced the night away with? And why did so many people want Betty Norris dead? From the garden squares of Bloomsbury to the seedy backstreets of Soho, trainee detective Marjorie goes on a perilous hunt for the killer."
My thoughts:
Marjorie Swallow got a bit more than she bargained for when she took the job as personal secretary for American detective Mrs. Jameson.
The guests at the bohemian party are an interesting mix but the inclusion of Mrs. Norris is a bit odd as her pointed questions and side comments put some a bit on edge. Her murder leads to some disturbing revelations, numerous suspects and a lot of questions.
Marjorie quickly proves herself to be a sharp observer in seeing clues. Though her instincts are often good, she does inadvertently put herself in some dangerous situations.
The core characters are interesting, though it seems a bit odd that the detective would be so willing to work with Mrs. Jameson and Marjorie considering it is the 1920's. Even so, the author kept the story moving with some interesting developments, twists and dialogue.
I did suspect there was more going on than just the murder and I had a strong hunch as to who done it well before Marjorie and the others figured it out.
This was an entertaining read and I will be continuing to read this series in the future.
A side note to the author: In the Kindle edition there is a mention of a prequal novella to this series that is available by signing up for your email list. Seriously? I've unsubscribed from a number of author emails over the last few years as I just don't have time to read them. There is also the issue of privacy and email security. A number of authors have lost access to their email lists through hackers and spam over the last few years. Though I'd like to read the novella, I value my privacy more than pumping up your mailing list numbers. Why not just make the Kindle novella available for free or a very small fee on Amazon? More people will see it and may actually increase your book sales in the long run.
December 27, 2023
Никога не са достатъчно добрите криминални поредици, особено онези с главни персонажи дами със стоманен гръбнак и оловна логика, пред които и най-жестоките убийци ще приведат глави и ще се свият в ъгъла тихичко да изчакат полицаите, срамувайки се от делата си. Поредицата на Ана Сейбърн Лейн разказва за впечатляващата мадам Джеймисън – американска богаташка – детективка с наблюдателността и аналитичния ум на същински Шерлок Холмс, способна да прецени всеки непознат кой е, какво работи и кога за последен път се е влюбвал само на база на влакънце на лакътя. Дали е достоверно? Разбира се, че не – и при Дойл никога не е било. Но дали е забавно? Абсолютно.
И тъй като на един Холмс, дори такъв в изключително изящна и модерна френска фуста, винаги си му трябва един Уотсън, на сцената се появява Марджъри – дъщеря на обикновено търговци, без особени умения, образование или мечти, но със съвест и честно сърце. Което се оказва доста полезно, особено когато комуникираш основно с блестящи представители на утайката на обществото, способни на абсолютно всичко долно в тоя живот. Екипът разследващо дами са лишени от всякакви специални умения, като бойни изкуства, магии или орлово око при работа с огнестрелни оръжия, но редовно биват привиквани от полицията за съвет, странно уважавани заради професионализма си, въпреки, че същият върви облечен основно с пола. Пак, дали е достоверно? Абсурд. Но забавно – и още как.
Ако не е станало ясно – не търсете в тези книги някаква историческа фактология, реализъм извън доста противните престъпления, или някаква лична, драматична тегавина, която да потиска персонажите ни, докато същите не получат класически нервен срив. Дамите- астрални близнаци на Шерлок и Уотсън са силни, самостоятелни, бързо мислещи и честичко безразсъдно смели, наблюдателни, криещи по някой и друг скелет в гардероба, но това не им пречи на вътрешната чистота на душите или общата симпатичност. Всяко крайче на Лондон ще бъде внимателно обследвано, всяко местопрестъпление огледано с прецизност, на която и Хорейшо Кейн няма копче да може да каже, и никой злодей няма да се измъкне от добре лакираните и поддържани длани на дамското ни пауър дуо. Достоверно ли е? Хич. Забавно? Гаранция.
И тъй като на един Холмс, дори такъв в изключително изящна и модерна френска фуста, винаги си му трябва един Уотсън, на сцената се появява Марджъри – дъщеря на обикновено търговци, без особени умения, образование или мечти, но със съвест и честно сърце. Което се оказва доста полезно, особено когато комуникираш основно с блестящи представители на утайката на обществото, способни на абсолютно всичко долно в тоя живот. Екипът разследващо дами са лишени от всякакви специални умения, като бойни изкуства, магии или орлово око при работа с огнестрелни оръжия, но редовно биват привиквани от полицията за съвет, странно уважавани заради професионализма си, въпреки, че същият върви облечен основно с пола. Пак, дали е достоверно? Абсурд. Но забавно – и още как.
Ако не е станало ясно – не търсете в тези книги някаква историческа фактология, реализъм извън доста противните престъпления, или някаква лична, драматична тегавина, която да потиска персонажите ни, докато същите не получат класически нервен срив. Дамите- астрални близнаци на Шерлок и Уотсън са силни, самостоятелни, бързо мислещи и честичко безразсъдно смели, наблюдателни, криещи по някой и друг скелет в гардероба, но това не им пречи на вътрешната чистота на душите или общата симпатичност. Всяко крайче на Лондон ще бъде внимателно обследвано, всяко местопрестъпление огледано с прецизност, на която и Хорейшо Кейн няма копче да може да каже, и никой злодей няма да се измъкне от добре лакираните и поддържани длани на дамското ни пауър дуо. Достоверно ли е? Хич. Забавно? Гаранция.
November 12, 2023
4.5 stars
This was my first introduction to cosy murder mysteries and my very first book tour, so combined, this is a rather exciting moment for Mrs Bennett’s Bookshelf!
Set in 1920s London, ‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ is written in a highly atmospheric way that had me pleasantly lost in another world. Tackling the serious issues of murder, violence and illegal homosexuality, this little book also features a woman as the main character, who works as an assistant detective during a time when women didn’t even work in the police force. Big, brave issues in a rather small novella, yet sensitively addressed and authentically in keeping with the laws and societal attitudes of the time. This deserves congratulatory recognition, as it will have required a lot of research and self-control on the part of the author, given that we now live in different times, with more acceptance of women in authority and homosexuality.
Written with clear direction, ‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ left me deliciously guessing ‘whodunnit’ until the very end (with quite a few wrong guesses as the story progressed!). The characters are delightful, and how Sayburn Lane manages to make this into a cosy mystery given the fact that this features a murder plot is a very clever skill.
The thing that makes this cosy is down to the setting, the characters and the dialogue. There’s a beautiful balance between the lightness of the tone amidst some thrilling scenes and the ending is not a disappointing one.
‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ deserves 4.5 stars and a place on Mrs Bennett’s Bookshelf for the talented way that Sayburn Lane has written and left me keen to follow the future exploits of Marjorie Swallow and her no-nonsense mentor.
Thank you to Anna Sayburn Lane and Random Things Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This was my first introduction to cosy murder mysteries and my very first book tour, so combined, this is a rather exciting moment for Mrs Bennett’s Bookshelf!
Set in 1920s London, ‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ is written in a highly atmospheric way that had me pleasantly lost in another world. Tackling the serious issues of murder, violence and illegal homosexuality, this little book also features a woman as the main character, who works as an assistant detective during a time when women didn’t even work in the police force. Big, brave issues in a rather small novella, yet sensitively addressed and authentically in keeping with the laws and societal attitudes of the time. This deserves congratulatory recognition, as it will have required a lot of research and self-control on the part of the author, given that we now live in different times, with more acceptance of women in authority and homosexuality.
Written with clear direction, ‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ left me deliciously guessing ‘whodunnit’ until the very end (with quite a few wrong guesses as the story progressed!). The characters are delightful, and how Sayburn Lane manages to make this into a cosy mystery given the fact that this features a murder plot is a very clever skill.
The thing that makes this cosy is down to the setting, the characters and the dialogue. There’s a beautiful balance between the lightness of the tone amidst some thrilling scenes and the ending is not a disappointing one.
‘Blackmail in Bloomsbury’ deserves 4.5 stars and a place on Mrs Bennett’s Bookshelf for the talented way that Sayburn Lane has written and left me keen to follow the future exploits of Marjorie Swallow and her no-nonsense mentor.
Thank you to Anna Sayburn Lane and Random Things Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 3, 2023
The writing was light and had a lot going on for a short book. There was always something happening to keep me on my toes. There were quite a few characters to keep track of so I had to make a note of them on my phone. If I left too long a gap inbetween reading sessions then I needed to remind myself who was who. That being said I did enjoy the story so it wasn't too hard to make sure that I didn't leave too big a gap between reading sessions!
The story was written from the secretary's point of view, which I enjoyed. She got herself into all sorts of scrapes which were entertaining to read about.
The chapters were a mix of lengths, but were generally on the shorter side. This gave the story a good pace and kept you moving. There were times when I thought that I had solved the murder then something else would happen.
I loved the main character. She was very down to earth which meant that you could feel her amazement when her employer introduced her to all the fancy places that were part of the investigation. I assumed that her employer would be the main character so it was an interesting dynamic.
Lastly the settings. I loved following the main character around 1920s London. I don't know that the settings were particularly different to what they are now as major London venues seem to stand the test of time, so it was more the dress code of the characters that gave the era away.
Overall an enjoyable book.
The story was written from the secretary's point of view, which I enjoyed. She got herself into all sorts of scrapes which were entertaining to read about.
The chapters were a mix of lengths, but were generally on the shorter side. This gave the story a good pace and kept you moving. There were times when I thought that I had solved the murder then something else would happen.
I loved the main character. She was very down to earth which meant that you could feel her amazement when her employer introduced her to all the fancy places that were part of the investigation. I assumed that her employer would be the main character so it was an interesting dynamic.
Lastly the settings. I loved following the main character around 1920s London. I don't know that the settings were particularly different to what they are now as major London venues seem to stand the test of time, so it was more the dress code of the characters that gave the era away.
Overall an enjoyable book.
August 27, 2023
In Blackmail in Bloomsbury by Anna Sayburn Lane, Marjorie Swallow uses her ingenuity and keen observational skills to assist American private investigator, Mrs. Jameson, in her position as secretary/assistant private investigator. The series is set in the 1920s, at the beginning of the Jazz Age, AKA the Roaring Twenties in London. It has all the razzle-dazzle of that era along with some very dark secrets.
Marjorie Swallow accompanies Mrs. Jamison to a Bohemian party in the Bloomsbury district. There she meets a sparkling array of attendees. And one rather drab guest, a Mrs. Norris, that everyone knows, but doesn’t want to. But someone knew her well enough to her to slit her throat.
Mrs. Jameson herself is a mystery within the mystery. She seems to know everyone, yet no one seems to know anything about her. I am eager to find out more about her… please.
Blackmail in Bloomsbury is a bright and humorous mystery and I would recommend this book to all who appreciate Hercule Poirot and Lord Peter Wimsey. I was honored to be chosen to be an ARC reader for Blackmail in Bloomsbury and thoroughly enjoy reading it.
Marjorie Swallow accompanies Mrs. Jamison to a Bohemian party in the Bloomsbury district. There she meets a sparkling array of attendees. And one rather drab guest, a Mrs. Norris, that everyone knows, but doesn’t want to. But someone knew her well enough to her to slit her throat.
Mrs. Jameson herself is a mystery within the mystery. She seems to know everyone, yet no one seems to know anything about her. I am eager to find out more about her… please.
Blackmail in Bloomsbury is a bright and humorous mystery and I would recommend this book to all who appreciate Hercule Poirot and Lord Peter Wimsey. I was honored to be chosen to be an ARC reader for Blackmail in Bloomsbury and thoroughly enjoy reading it.
October 1, 2023
Blackmail in Bloomsbury is a classic murder mystery set in 1920s London, the first book in a new female detective series by Anna Sayburn Lane. Marjorie Swallow is the newly appointed personal secretary to the rather formidable Mrs Jameson, who runs a sleuthing agency. Marjorie accompanies Mrs Jameson to a Bohemian Bloomsbury party, where she is excited to meet a range of interesting characters, even though she feels a little out of her depth socially. What she doesn’t know is that by the morning one of the guests will be dead and that Marjorie will have to take the lead in solving the murder. Why was the victim at the party and why did they have so many enemies?
This book was great fun to read, reminding me of Agatha Christie’s London based novels. The historical details brought 1920s London to life through the descriptions of Bloomsbury, Soho and the Ritz. Marjorie is a fantastic protagonist who never gives up despite the danger she increasingly finds herself in. I loved this book, reading it in two days and I can’t wait for the next in the series.
This book was great fun to read, reminding me of Agatha Christie’s London based novels. The historical details brought 1920s London to life through the descriptions of Bloomsbury, Soho and the Ritz. Marjorie is a fantastic protagonist who never gives up despite the danger she increasingly finds herself in. I loved this book, reading it in two days and I can’t wait for the next in the series.
October 3, 2023
I finished this book in one go and found this an entertaining and fun read. Mrs Jamieson is formidable character, and I loved her interactions with her suspects. Majorie, the main point of view character and I loved her zest of life.
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.
The murder itself is suitably mysterious and while the motive is obvious, there are plenty of suspects for our detective duo to eliminate.
The author brings the party like (almost rave like) atmosphere of the 1920’s to life and captures the sense of a society on the verge of change.
It was refreshing to see the police detectives in this book actually appreciate the help of Mrs Jamieson – but is there another mystery there as why the police are happy to rely on her and what happened in her past to make her so competent. I will definitely read the next book to find out more.
I received a copy of this book for a free and unbiased opinion.
The murder itself is suitably mysterious and while the motive is obvious, there are plenty of suspects for our detective duo to eliminate.
The author brings the party like (almost rave like) atmosphere of the 1920’s to life and captures the sense of a society on the verge of change.
It was refreshing to see the police detectives in this book actually appreciate the help of Mrs Jamieson – but is there another mystery there as why the police are happy to rely on her and what happened in her past to make her so competent. I will definitely read the next book to find out more.
January 8, 2024
Marjorie is the newly appointed secretary/assistant to the mysterious private detective Mrs Jameson. They are asked to investigate the death of an unpleasant woman who was murdered after a dinner party Marjorie and her boss attended. This is one of those stories where the police fall over themselves to cooperate with/take instructions from a private detective - has that ever happened in real life? I enjoyed this: it was easy to read, Marjorie was likeable, and the plot moved fast. The author cleverly made Marjorie originally a slightly lower social class than the suspects and Mrs Jameson an American, so they were both outsiders to an extent and observed things that went on with a certain detachment.
This novel reminded me strongly of the Stephen Spotswood series (which I think is better), although that is of course set in a different country during a different decade.
This novel reminded me strongly of the Stephen Spotswood series (which I think is better), although that is of course set in a different country during a different decade.
August 30, 2024
Great first entry to an addictive 1920’s mystery series. I was torn between a 4 & 5 star rating simply because it was slightly irritating that the protagonist took so long to put her finger on whodunnit since she repeatedly solved it without realizing it! Like saying this person is the only suspect that has a certain trait and/or characteristic that, in the end, enables her to solve it, yet she doesn’t quite make the jump to the conclusion. It was a bit frustrating. However I liked the protagonist and the accompanying characters, the story was interesting and engaging and had just the right amount of realism without becoming too gritty for a cozy. I ended up giving it 5 stars for these reasons and would highly recommend this book.
October 11, 2023
I loved this starter to a new series starring Marjorie Swallow as an amateur sleuth in 1920's London - reminding me of a classic Agatha Christie novel.
The setting was just brilliant. This era is known for its class divide and Marjorie worries when her new employer, Mrs Jameson, invites her along to a soiree in upmarket Bloomsbury.
She does herself proud and manages to get along with everyone - but when there is a murder at the end of the evening, Marjorie finds herself having to chat to the guests once again, but in a very different capacity.
I found Marjorie to be really relatable. A bit out of her depth in the fancy houses of Bloomsbury, but she really holds her own!
Mrs Jameson on the other hand - I'm still not entirely sure I fully trust her yet - I feel like her character will be explored a lot more through the series.
The writing style was done to perfection. The descriptions of a 20's London were vivid and immersive. It was really easy to just read and be transported there for a few hours.
A really great start to what will be a moreish mystery series. I can't wait to see what our ladies get up to in book 2....
The setting was just brilliant. This era is known for its class divide and Marjorie worries when her new employer, Mrs Jameson, invites her along to a soiree in upmarket Bloomsbury.
She does herself proud and manages to get along with everyone - but when there is a murder at the end of the evening, Marjorie finds herself having to chat to the guests once again, but in a very different capacity.
I found Marjorie to be really relatable. A bit out of her depth in the fancy houses of Bloomsbury, but she really holds her own!
Mrs Jameson on the other hand - I'm still not entirely sure I fully trust her yet - I feel like her character will be explored a lot more through the series.
The writing style was done to perfection. The descriptions of a 20's London were vivid and immersive. It was really easy to just read and be transported there for a few hours.
A really great start to what will be a moreish mystery series. I can't wait to see what our ladies get up to in book 2....
May 28, 2024
Anna Sayburn Lane is a new author for me of the 1920s murder mystery series, recommended by a favoured writer Rosie Hunt of my favourite fictional journalist Lady Felicity Quick fame.
In book #1 we meet the main characters and supporting cast in the murder of a nasty / nice woman of dubious repute depending on who you ask, where our
cast appear to be running amok with little intent, between pedestrian peril, strolling strife, cross dressers and familial angst, we discover how determined our team can be seeking evidence of innocence.
Thank you for your words Anna Sayburn Lane, much appreciated. :-)
In book #1 we meet the main characters and supporting cast in the murder of a nasty / nice woman of dubious repute depending on who you ask, where our
cast appear to be running amok with little intent, between pedestrian peril, strolling strife, cross dressers and familial angst, we discover how determined our team can be seeking evidence of innocence.
Thank you for your words Anna Sayburn Lane, much appreciated. :-)
September 20, 2024
Just Discovered This Series
Definitely enjoyed following Marjorie around 1920’s London. Unlike most of these cozies (which I love), the sleuth is a secretary not an heiress. She has a fun cast around her, a rich employer, helpful police, and a nearly invisible but very competent butler to manage the household. I think I would call it more of a procedural than a mystery. The detectives carefully checked alibis, eliminated suspects and chased down the criminals. I’m looking forward to reading the next one.
Definitely enjoyed following Marjorie around 1920’s London. Unlike most of these cozies (which I love), the sleuth is a secretary not an heiress. She has a fun cast around her, a rich employer, helpful police, and a nearly invisible but very competent butler to manage the household. I think I would call it more of a procedural than a mystery. The detectives carefully checked alibis, eliminated suspects and chased down the criminals. I’m looking forward to reading the next one.
July 20, 2025
Enjoyable period mystery
An enjoyable period murder mystery with excellent characters and a interesting plot. Marjorie Swallow and her American detective boss Mrs Jameson investigate when a friend is accused of murder. Blackmail, secrets, glamour and sleaze combine in an excellent entertaining storyline. Well written with some nice descriptions of London's seedier areas just post the end of the great war. Highly recommended and I will definitely be reading more of these stories.
An enjoyable period murder mystery with excellent characters and a interesting plot. Marjorie Swallow and her American detective boss Mrs Jameson investigate when a friend is accused of murder. Blackmail, secrets, glamour and sleaze combine in an excellent entertaining storyline. Well written with some nice descriptions of London's seedier areas just post the end of the great war. Highly recommended and I will definitely be reading more of these stories.
March 1, 2024
This is a "new to me" author and from what I have read, so far, I will be investing in more of her work. This story is about a blackmailer who got herself killed, a lady detective and her faithful secretary, a member of the aristocracy and his siblings, and various supporting characters. The action started off with a bang and the action proceeded from there. The plot is straight forward and easily followed. I most certainly recommend this book.
March 4, 2025
That was wonderful—exactly what I want from a mystery novel. I enjoyed the Bloomsbury setting a lot, and the historical detail was spot on. As with The Queens of Crime, I appreciated that there was clearly a lot of research in this, but it never felt like I was reading someone’s notes, as happens with some historical novels.
July 20, 2024
Good Read
Great read! The characters are well defined, writing is concise (never repeating the same thing, and the plot and writing style were excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Cannot say enough good about the book, and look forward to the in the series.
Great read! The characters are well defined, writing is concise (never repeating the same thing, and the plot and writing style were excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Cannot say enough good about the book, and look forward to the in the series.
March 8, 2025
I found it quite refreshing that the detective was neither incompetent nor condescending towards our female protagonists. It was of course somewhat unrealistic how much information he shared but that is sort of expected in this genre.
October 19, 2025
Those were the days
3.5 rounded up. It was a fun light read. Good escape but to the roaring 20s. Did the London police ever ask a rich American (female private detective) for help with a case? Surely not. Still fun.
3.5 rounded up. It was a fun light read. Good escape but to the roaring 20s. Did the London police ever ask a rich American (female private detective) for help with a case? Surely not. Still fun.
November 3, 2025
This was a good read (actually a listen as I had this as an audio book).
I liked the characters, the story and the setting of the 1920s.
The book was enjoyable. I would consider reading future installments in this series.
I liked the characters, the story and the setting of the 1920s.
The book was enjoyable. I would consider reading future installments in this series.
April 26, 2024
I enjoyed the brainy two female detectives. Checked out the next book in the sequel.
April 27, 2024
Easy read. Have always loved English Mysteries in the early 20’s and 30’s. Loved it.
June 11, 2024
I enjoyed this. I will read the next.
July 10, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed.
I thoroughly enjoy the plot and characters. Very tawdry blackmail story full secrets and twists. I look forward to the next in the series.
I thoroughly enjoy the plot and characters. Very tawdry blackmail story full secrets and twists. I look forward to the next in the series.
July 14, 2024
Really 3 1/2 stars. Nice period mystery.
October 10, 2024
Wow
What a cracking good read,the characters are brilliant,I really enjoyed this book ,, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories.
What a cracking good read,the characters are brilliant,I really enjoyed this book ,, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories.
October 22, 2024
Great!
I thoroughly enjoyed this double or is it triple mystery? Engaging characters and complex, well-developed plot kept my attention to the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed this double or is it triple mystery? Engaging characters and complex, well-developed plot kept my attention to the end.
November 21, 2024
Solid
The open treatment of homosexuality and post-WWI trauma (much more common than realized today) are authentic. Th mystery and its solution are intriguing and satisfying.
The open treatment of homosexuality and post-WWI trauma (much more common than realized today) are authentic. Th mystery and its solution are intriguing and satisfying.
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