Murder Most British

The Secret Detective Agency #3

by Helena Dixon

Big Ben chiming in the distance, chilly walks along the river Thames, cocktails at the Ritz… and a government secretary dead? Only Jane Treen can solve the case!

London, 1941. Miss Jane Treen is faced with another mysterious disappearance within her Secret Detective Agency’s team. Tabitha Moore, a government typist, was on her way to meet Jane with vital information about some secret codes. But she didn’t turn up for work and has seemingly vanished without trace. Then Jane and her colleague, handsome codebreaker Arthur Cilento, receive a call: a body has been found, and it matches Tabitha’s description…

It quickly becomes clear that Tabitha’s death was not due to ongoing air raids on the the silk scarf tied tightly around her neck suggests otherwise. The prime suspect is Tabitha’s fiancé Leo Cavendish, a dashing government official, but there are plenty of others with a motive too. Jane and Arthur scrutinise those around Tabitha at work and at home, including a charming newsreader reporting on government affairs, a jealous pianist in love with Leo, and a known womaniser and gambler fond of causing trouble.

Together, Jane, Arthur and her fluffy ginger cat Marmaduke hole up in her London townhouse, with black coffee in plentiful supply and a roaring fire in the grate. But just as they begin to piece together the puzzle, someone else is found dead. It’s clear they need to step up and catch the killer on the loose in the big smoke, before it’s their turn next…

If you love twisty crime novels, top-secret intrigue and the very best of Golden Age mysteries, then you will adore Helena Dixon’s totally gripping cozy novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Historical, Historical Fiction, British Literature, Historical Mystery

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2025

About the author

Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:

see: Helena Dixon - Erotica



This author also writes as:

Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction




Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.

Reviews

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.7 Stars

One Liner: Enjoyable read

1941, London

Jane Treen faces yet another disappearance when Tabitha Moore, a government typist who was coming to meet her about some secret codes, vanished without a trace. Jane and her colleague, the code breaker Arthur Cilento, receive the news of a body that matches the missing woman’s description. Though the prime suspect is Tabitha’s fiancé, Leo, a dashing government official, many others could also belong to the suspect list.

Can Jane and Arthur solve the case before their own lives are at risk?

The story comes in Jane and Arthur’s third-person POVs.

My Thoughts:

This is the third book in the series, and I admit it is getting better. Though our FMC smokes like a steam engine, we don’t get as many mentions of cigarettes as in the previous books. Or maybe I got used to them!

While it could work as a standalone, I’d recommend reading at least book #2. That’s because the FMC’s mother has a bigger role in this one, and knowing the dynamics between them will make it easier to understand their interactions.

The case is also a bit more dangerous, with quite a lot of attacks, sabotage, etc., happening. I like that it keeps them on their toes and provides a long list of suspects.

The MMC continues to be the softer/ gentler character, and his brain is as sharp as ever. The main characters do make an interesting sleuthing pair with a side aide in the form of the manservant.

It was interesting to know how things worked behind the scenes in the broadcasting (radio) industry during war, and what they had to do to ensure the public had some sort of normalcy and routine to survive the uncertain conditions.

The mystery is quite interesting. Though I figured out the killer midway through, it was fun to see if I was right (I was) and how the MCs connect the clues to reach that point, or if they could!

It felt as if the pacing was slower this time. Not is not an issue since the book is around 250 pages and can still be completed in two sittings. However, we can feel the narration slow down a bit.

To summarize, Murder Most British is an enjoyable read with interesting and slightly irritating characters. The series is getting better, so I intend to continue with it for now and see where the next case takes us.

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley #MurderMostBritish

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in this entertaining series is set in London in 1941. Something suspicious is going on at the radio broadcasting studios - hidden coded messages seem to be being added to radio programmes and an undercover agent acting as a typist has been murdered. Jane Treen and Benson the butler both get work at the studios in order to further the investigation and Arthur works at researching any clues. Even Marmaduke helps out by protecting Jane in a very proactive way.

I am very much enjoying the historical feel of these books set as they are in wartime London where life did manage to go on despite the bombs and the food shortages. All of the characters are entertaining in their own way and the story concludes satisfactorily. I shall watch out for the next book.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

London 1941, and Jane Treen's work was interrupted by the Brigadier; the body of one of the agents of the Secret Detective Agency's team, Tabitha Moore, who'd gone missing, was found. She'd been strangled. Immediately, Jane and her offsider, Arthur Cilento, along with his butler, Benson, joined forces to identify what was happening, why Tabitha was killed, and by whom. The Brigadier was running things and they reported to him often. Jane and Arthur soon worked out what was happening, but they needed to find out who were the suspects. There were a lot of them. The three of them were putting themselves in danger, especially after a second person was murdered, but Jane was determined to discover the culprit. The enemies of the country needed to be contained.

Murder Most British is the 3rd in The Secret Detective Agency series by Helena Dixon and it was a gritty, tension filled historical crime cosy which I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm really getting into Jane, Arthur and the gentle, caring Benson characters, and look forward to their next adventure - set in Britain in the years of the second World War. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

This was the first book I have ever read by this author and absolutely loved it. Jane is a code breaker during WWII and is currently investigating the murder of one of the typists who worked with them. Unfortunately, this means she has to go to work with her toxic mother (who has no idea she is a code-breaker or is conducting an investigation). The type of mother just introduces you as 'Jane', not 'my daughter, Jane,' because they don't want to admit they are old enough to have children. The ones that no matter how perfectly you do something, in this case play the piano, will make degrading comments about it, especially in front of people. So, content warning if you have trauma from that (and so sorry. You didn't deserve that).

Loved this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone else!

[Tracy Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

When an operative trained by Jane Treen and working undercover at BBC Bush House is found murdered on their way to pass on vital information, Jane knows she will soon be expected to spring into action. Codebreaker Arthur Cilento and his man servant Benson travel to London immediately while, to her consternation, Jane finds herself volunteered as her mother's replacement pianist for her current season of concerts at the BBC. As they begin their investigation, it becomes clear that, once again, the safety of the nation is at risk from within. Can the three operatives unmask the killer in Bush House, or will they too fall foul of the treachery they are desperate to stamp out?

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. When Helena Dixon began this new series I was a little concerned that I wouldn't like it; three books in I already feel, as I do with her wonderful Kitty Underhay series, as if I am meeting up with old friends. Jane is wonderful, an already well-rounded main protagonist who is as likeable as Kitty but for totally different reasons. The storyline moved along at a gallop and with quite a few highly dubious suspects, and I didn't guess correctly or even get close! I am definitely looking forward to reading more of this series very soon.

[Karen Wrobel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, and was looking forward to the next outing. Unfortunately, this is disappointing. It’s a bit slow, the plot isn’t particularly interesting or engaging, both main characters are annoying, and everyone spends a lot of time sitting around drinking coffee, eating and smoking. Additionally, the writing is odd, full of sentence fragments, weird comma placement (decide - Oxford comma or not!!), and it just generally felt not as well thought out or developed as books one and two. 2.5 stars.

[June Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Jane Treen probably wasn't expecting an wartime undercover government job of being her mother's piano accompanist at morale boasting radio recording sessions. But, that's where she finds herself this go-round. Of course, Arthur Cilento and Benson, his assistant/medical caretaker are along for the ride. One has to figure Benson didn't expect to be doing undercover jobs as a janitor, either. Their task is to ferret out who and how secret information is being transmitted to the enemy via secret codes worked into the programming. That's where master code breaker Arthur comes into the spotlight. One person has already died because they knew too much, so time and secrecy is of the utmost importance. Then there's another murder.

I won't detail the plot any further other than to say you get an excellent look at life in wartime Britain in London, 1941. You'll also get a glimpse of some of the hardships ordinary citizens endured, from having to maintain the blackout while still getting around wintertime London in the dark. Jane spends lots of time going and coming by bus, which usually means a crowded, uncomfortable trip even under the best of circumstances. It's no wonder she's always happy to get home to her one-eyed cat Marmaduke who shows his devotion to her in this installment. Unfortunately for Arthur, occasionally taxed with feeding him, he's not as friendly to men. Let's just say, ouch, those claws are sharp.

I've liked this series from the start but am happy to report that Jane has really grown on me. As Arthur notes at one point, she's decisive, brisk, and swift moving, never flinching in the eyes of danger. And, shh, I think she's beginning to grow on him, too. Well, if her smoking and quick pace doesn't kill him first. His asthma hinders his physical involvement although he rarely lets it stop him completely. And, of course, Benson knows just how to deal with it in the aftermath of over exertion. It was interesting to see Jane spending more time with her actress mother, a relationship that is, oh, let's say cautious and tricky at the bet of times. We do get some insight into her mother, albeit limited still. She obviously may have more than a few surprises left for us. The supporting cast this go-round is pretty much tied to the radio station and it remains to be seen if they'll be repeat characters. It was fun to watch Arthur's mind struggle with the code while Benson discovers a few helpful hints in his undercover role, too. As for the villain, I had them on my list but wasn't sure until the end drew closer and closer. Fanaticism knows no bounds, obviously. Bottom line, an intriguing mystery with characters who are showing growth as we get to know them better. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me this early read of this fascinating bit of time and activity that, while most of us know vaguely existed, we really know little about. I definitely liked Arthur's sneaky way of protecting the documents at one point.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

October 1941, at the BBC Bush House, British agent Tabitha Moore has been discovered dead. It is deemed necessary to send Jane Treen in undercover as her mother's pianist. Meanwhile Arthur Cilento tries to uncover the coded messages in the broadcasts. But are they safe as they try to find the murderer
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its delightful and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

London, England 1941.
The codebreaker (reclusive/asthmatic Arthur) and the spymaster (chain-smoking abrasive Jane) need to work together again as War Office agents. That was the positive part. The negative was that Jane had to accompany her mother (from he**) on the piano as she sang for the BBC. Jane found the body of the first agent murdered right there in Bush House, but then there was another agent murdered. An excellent addition to the series.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected review galley from Bookouture via NetGalley.
#MurderMostBritish by @helenadixonuk #SecretDetectiveAgency❤️3 @Bookouture #NetGalley #5starreview #bookbub #goodreads #librarything #thestorygraph #Britishcozycrimemystery
#historicalmystery #familydrama #cozymystery #historicalfigures #historicalnovel #intrigue #waterstones #kobo @bookshop_org @bookshop_org_uk @bookshop_org_ca #ausindiebooks

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

2025 bk 154. This may well be my new favorite of the series. The look at British broadcasting and potential for saboteurs during WWII was fascinating. I loved the tidbits about timing, how top notch the musicians had to be about learning their music quickly, and the details about how the members of the radio team coordinated their efforts between on air performance and the many different types of in person performances sandwiched into their schedules. But of all, the mystery was puzzling indeed, with multiple red herrings that had to be eliminated. The trio of sleuths did an excellent job! Loved it.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another day, another mission! Jane Treen has been called in to investigate the murder of a government typist, Tabitha Moore, who was supposed to meet with Jane about secret codes being broadcast. Jane, Arthur (renowned code breaker), and Arthur's manservant Benson are sent undercover to figure out who is sending the codes over the broadcast and preventing them from continuing to spread their messages. As they are investigating though, others begin to turn up dead. The three know they must band together to find the murderer, before they are all next on the list.

This is the 3rd book in the series that I have read, and it is probably my second favorite to date. The original was my favorite, possibly due to the super engaging audiobook. I did enjoy the mystery in this one as well as the continued character development. The mix of mystery and the historical elements are well done and I felt transported into the past and the overall unease of the time. I look forward to Jane, Arthur and Benson's next adventure together.

Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley, and Helena Dixon for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

(This review originally appeared on my website CozyingUp.com.)

There are some books when you hear that another one in the series is coming out soon, it makes you positively giddy. This book is one of those for me. I may have even squealed in joy.

Murder Most British is the 3rd book in The Secret Detective Agency series. The author (Helena Dixon) also writes the Miss Underhay mysteries, which are also on my cozy mystery reading list. While Kitty and her husband Matt are enjoyable characters, there is just something about Jane and Arthur (plus Benson of course) that really appeals to me.

Set in WWII London, we are re-introduced to Jane Treen, a no-nonsense, cigarette smoking, coffee lover who is an operative for British Intelligence and has a fluffy one-eyed ginger cat named Marmaduke. Thanks to the doings of Brigadier Remmington-Blythe, she has been working with code breaker Arthur Cilento whose modest ways and compromised health often hide his intellect and savvy thinking. As usual, he is accompanied by his manservant Benson who often provides home healthcare and helps with Jane and Arthur's investigations.

This time, the case involves a murdered government agent who had been placed undercover as a typist at the BBC when secret messages were suspected of being broadcast to the enemy over the air. Arthur entrusted with deciphering the hidden information in the transcripts and Benson takes on a custodial job at Broadcast House to get the behind the scenes angle. Unfortunately for Jane, her role is as fill-in accompanist for her imperious American mother who never approves of anything Jane does.

The suspects include the agent's fiancé who is also the manager 0f Broadcast House, a popular bandleader, a newsreader, an actress, and a pianist. Though the brigadier is able to get Arthur and Benson housing in the same building Jane lives in, they realize that they are being watched and are unsure as to who exactly is doing the watching.

Getting a glimpse of what life was like in Britain during the war is fascinating. The trio need to find the killer and stop the espionage all while dealing with blackouts and bombings (and Jane's mother). The act of getting food is complicated and sometimes risky with the need to have ration coupons and go to more than one store. Getting from one place to another may require multiple buses and those may not even be running.

I find the writing for the Secret Detective Agency books tighter than the ones that Dixon does for the Miss Underhay series. There is an urgency that is sometimes missing from the other books that I enjoy.

Plus I just love Jane Treen. What a great character! Pairing her with the gentle and brilliant Arthur works so well. By this third case together, they are starting to understand each other more and perhaps care for each other in a way that is more than collegial.

All in all, hooray for Murder Most British and long may the Secret Detective Agency prevail! Now all I have to do is count the days until the next book drops in April of next year.

4 lattes out of 5

Disclaimer: This eARC was provided by Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Jane Treen returns as the sharp, capable codebreaker and secret detective we’ve come to admire. In this latest World War II adventure, Jane once again takes on a mission that perfectly suits her finely honed skills. Her task: to uncover how secret coded messages are being embedded in government broadcasts.

But this time, Jane’s assignment has an added twist. Her mother, an American performer, needs her to accompany her on piano for a series of concerts—an obligation that puts Jane in a difficult position between duty and family. Representing Britain during wartime is no small responsibility, and Jane must balance her spy work with the complexities of performing alongside a mother with whom she has a strained relationship.

Jane’s loyal cat, Marmaduke, joins her as always, much to the dismay of her fellow agent Arthur Cilento, whose allergies often get the better of him. Arthur and his ever-present manservant once again provide strong support, though Jane’s brilliance and quick thinking shows that she clearly leads the way. Her sharp wit and resourcefulness shine throughout, especially as she navigates the dangers of wartime espionage and family tension.

This installment in the Secret Detective Agency series stands out for its clever plotting and character depth. Jane’s ability to juggle multiple roles—spy, pianist, and daughter—while staying several steps ahead of her enemies makes her a heroine worth cheering for. I especially enjoyed seeing how her codebreaking talents and keen intuition carried her through a mission filled with intrigue, hidden messages, and emotional challenges.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Devi · Rating 3 out of 5]

📱📖 Read on Kindle (ARC via NetGalley)
📃 262 pages
⏱ Duration: ~3 hours
🏷️ Publisher: Bookouture
Genre: Historical Fiction / Cozy Mystery

This one promised Golden Age mystery energy with London Fog, secret codes, and a dash of romance, but the tempo just never found it's pulse. The wartime backdrop is spot-on: air-raid sirens, sandbags, glamorous newsreaders doing their bit for morale. Helena Dixon nails the atmosphere, and Marmaduke the cat is an absolute scene-stealer. But somewhere around the midpoint, I found myself skip-reading just to get to the reveal. Not because the mystery wasn't intriguing, but because the story never quite found its pace (and place) for me!

The characters are pleasant enough. Jane is capable. Arthur is handsome. But nobody truly sparkles or lingers in your mind once you close the book. Jumping into book 3 probably didn't help; relationships felt pre-loaded with history I didn't have. The solution when it finally arrived, was tidy, yet unsurprising. A perfectly competent historical cozy that somehow left me completely unmoved.

Would I Recommend it?
If you're already devoted to the Secret Detective Agency series or collect every 1940s cozy like Pokemon cards, you'll probably enjoy catching up with Jane, Arthur, and Marmaduke. For new readers? This one didn't sell me on backtracking to books 1 and 2. It's not a bad book, it's just not my cup of strong British Tea.

Spilled the Tea already, or still sipping?
Tell, are you a die-hard fan who thinks I missed the magic? Or did this one leave you lukewarm too? Drop your thoughts below.

[Joanne Hurley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read "Murder Most British" (The Secret Detective Agency Book 3) in return for a fair and honest review.
Murder Most British by Helena Dixon is the continuation of the series that features Miss Jane Treen and Arthur Cilentro and his trusty manservant Benson; they comprise The Secret Detective Agency, an subsection of British Intelligence. Set in the world of World War II Britain, this highly entertaining and well written series is just what the doctor ordered.
This time, the plot centres on the transmission of secrets over the airwaves, disguised as news announcements - doctored news announcements giving vital information to the enemy Reich. And to ferret out the culprit, Miss Jane Treen goes undercover as an accompanist to the most popular singer on the air - her mother. The mother who barely acknowledges her.
After the murder of an operative, Miss Treen, her bosses in Intelligence, and Arthur are quite anxious to discover who the killer was, and how these messages are getting into the news; and when another death is discovered, it becomes even more important to get to the truth.
So they set a trap.
I have read the previous two books in the series, and I gladly dove into this one. I was not disappointed. Sometimes, retreating to a gentler time (although in wartime, it's hardly gentle) is just what this reader needs. And of course the highly entertaining Marmaduke puts in an appearance or two.
Recommended if you like a combination of espionage and cozy mysteries. And you don't really have to read the other two books; but you should.

[Sara Wise · Rating 5 out of 5]

** “Sabotage, delays and interruptions to broadcasts designed to demoralise and destabilise. I was proud to do it.” **

Helena Dixon continues her fun series about a secret World War II detective agency in “Murder Most British.”

When the Whitehall war office determines that hidden coded messages are being inserted into BBC broadcasts to give signals to the enemy, Jane Treen is tasked to join the Broadcasting House as her mother’s pianist to try to determine who’s attempting to sabotage the message. Her mother, an American singer and actress, has been recording performances to give inspiration to the British people.

With help from her secret detective agency partners code-breaking wizard Arthur Cilantro and his manservant Benson, the trio work to figure out who is behind the evil messages.

What follows is a mysterious plot filled with twists and turns, as well as some quirky characters, like the asthmatic Arthur, chain-smoking Jane, a die-hard manservant, an obnoxious famous mother, a one-eyed ginger cat, and several new quirky broadcast performers. The author leaves the reader guessing until the very end, with several near-deadly and deadly occurrences.

Fans of books like T.A. Willberg’s “Marion Lane” series and Julie Kelly’s “Evelyne Redfern” series, as well as authors like Rachel McMillan, Kate Quinn and J’nell Ciesielski will love “Murder Most British,” which is due out Nov. 6.

Five stars out of five.

Bookouture provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

The city was busy and the air in the tube station smelt of stale humanity...The government had tried to stop people from heading there when the sirens had sounded since there was a chronic lack of facilities. Jane thought they might as well have stood on the beach like King Canute trying to stop the tide from coming in.

‘You are quite merciless when you get going,’ Arthur remarked, looking at her with a mix of wonderment and fear. Jane shrugged. ‘We need to stir things up a little if we are to get some answers.’ Arthur considered that there was a difference between stirring things up and applying gunpowder to a hornet’s nest.

He had never been good at dancing. Not even after the lessons at Miss Mornington’s Dance School for young ladies and gentlemen when he had been about twelve or thirteen. He suppressed a shudder at the memory of having to learn to waltz under Miss Mornington’s eagle eye. He had been partnered with a ghastly, round-faced girl called Petunia Waddington who had smelt of stale cabbage and who giggled at nothing. She was also heavy-footed and would often leave him with bruised toes.

My Review:

I enjoy Helena Dixon’s wry Brit humor, which is often sneakily inserted as inner musings and descriptions in the midst of more serious exchanges. Her characters vary greatly in likability, while authentically quirky, annoying, selfish, driven, and entirely human. While I don’t always like Jane, I empathize with her most of the time. I adore the beleaguered Arthur and also adore and covet his devoted butler, Benson. We could all use a Benson in our lives.

[Anjana · Rating 3 out of 5]

After the last two plots, the last one being – The Secret Detective Agency #1,#2, this one was paced differently.

The story is set in winter in London. The weather and general ambience is described in great detail. It’s easy to imagine the dark and depressing time. Jane has been tasked with going undercover to her mother’s side to check what might be going on at the radio broadcasting station. There is a possibility of a traitor in their midst.

Arthur is given the more time consuming job of figuring out the coding parts of the spying work. I continue to be glad that there’s repeatedly a mention of how far the two characters are from romantic entanglements. Unfortunately, there were a few opposite hints as well this time.

I guessed the culprit quite early on and felt that not much was done to hide the clues. Even with the atmospheric situation, the mother daughter imbalance, the case itself felt very obvious. There were a few misdirections but those fell through quite quickly.

It’s not a big volume and the events happen quite quickly. It’s a quick read and I’m glad I gave it a shot but I’m not sure I will be continuing with the series. I would recommend it to fans of the genre.

I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

1941 Jane Treen ad Arthur Cilento need to catch a killer who may also be sending secret messages to the Nazis...
Murder Most British is the 3rd book in Secret Detective Agency series. I have read and reviewed the first book but missed the second (need to go and find it!), however there are no spoilers about earlier cases.
Undercover agent Tabitha is found murdered and the Secret Detective Agency swings into action to discover the secrets that got her killed. Jane goes undercover at the recording studio as her mum’s pianist and Benson takes on the janitor role. Meanwhile Arthur sets about decoding messages.
Now into the 3rd instalment of the series, the characters are more developed and have established relationships which underpin their work. Jane's abrasiveness has softened slightly since the first book and she was much easier to like. There are touches of humour throughout the book and I enjoyed seeing Jane at a disadvantage with her domineering mother. Marmaduke the cat steals every scene he's in!
The historical elements to the book felt authentic and I liked the details about radio broadcasting and rationing.
Murder Most British is an enjoyable cosy historical murder mystery.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder Most British is the thrilling third instalment in a murder mystery series set against the backdrop of World War Two.
Thankyou to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. My review is voluntary.
Jane, Arthur and Benson reunite to sole another mystery. A government typist has been killed. It appears the murder is linked to coded messages being sent to the enemy through radio transmissions.
This is the third book in this series. The mystery is self contained so the book can be read as a standalone. The progression of the delightful characters throughout the series is both engaging and enjoyable, so reading the first two instalments is highly recommended. The relationship between Jane and her mother has been a real hook and this comes to the fore in Murder Most British.
Unlike its predecessors, this novel is set in the city and captures the atmosphere of wartime London exceptionally well with its details of blackouts, rationing and bomb sites.
The mystery itself is original and its resolution is well done.
Although this is a cozy mystery it would also appeal to fans of spy thrillers.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in London in 1941, this cosy mystery series feature Miss Jane Treen, who works in a secret government agency managing spies in the field. In this episode, one of her spies has been murdered. She was working undercover at a radio broadcasting studio to investigate how a series of hidden coded messages to the enemy were being sneaked into government broadcasts. She was on her way to see Jane with important information when she was killed.

Once again, Jane is aided by handsome codebreaker Arthur Cilento and his manservant Benson, who himself ends up undercover at the studio. Jane’s self-centred mother, Elsa, is an American singer and actress who is often recorded singing for the troops, so Jane finds herself reluctantly working as her pianist, so she too can snoop around at the recording studios. This provides some humour, especially as Elsa refuses to let people know Jane is her daughter. She also has no idea what Jane’s real job is. I found the pacing a little slow but otherwise this is a fun cosy mystery with quirky characters, including Marmaduke, Jane's one eyed cat.

With thanks to Bookouture for a copy to read via Netgalley

[LJ (ljwritesandreviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Secret Detective Agency series, but it can easily be read as a standalone without coming across spoilers for the other books.

A young agent is found murdered after discovering secret enemy codes hidden inside broadcasts at Bush House. Jane is forced to work undercover with her mother as her accompanist. Dealing with her mother is trying enough for poor Jane, but also trying to ferret out a murderer and traitor at the same time too. Lucky for her, she has backup in the form of Arthur Cliento, a talented code breaker and colleague, as well as his faithful butler, Benson.

This is yet another entertaining historical cozy mystery from Helena Dixon! There were plenty of clues, red herrings and some peril for our sleuths along the way.

Jane is still her solid, no-nonsense self. Having to deal with her mother definitely put some strain on her, but as always, she still solved the case.

I feel like there's something building between Jane and Arthur, maybe a little romance for the pair in future novels? I'm not sure as yet though.

A great addition to this series, and I look forward to reading more.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Murder Most British. This book is part of a series I love, it was nice to meet them again. They feel familiar, like friends, and I was happy to catch up with their lives.
The story is solid and easy to read. It has quirky characters and they are witty . Each one has a clear personality. Some are clever, some are funny, and some hide secrets. I like how they talk and act, because it makes the story feel real. The plot is engrossing, and I wanted to keep reading to see how it ended. Even if the crime is serious, the tone of the book is cozy and not too heavy.
The historical background is vivid. I could imagine the time and place very well. The author gives small details that make the setting real. The characters are fleshed out, with feelings and problems, so they are more than just names on the page.
I had fun while reading. It was relaxing and enjoyable, and I smiled many times. I cannot wait for the next story, because I want to see what happens next with these people.
This is a good mystery with humor, history, and heart.
Highly recommended. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

[Acantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

An entertaining page turner.

I wish the focus had been a little more on the murder. It's in the title after all, but there was almost no investigation into the actual murder of Tabitha and instead was on the mystery of who the spy was. Of course the end result is the same, but they tackled it by trying to solve that crime over the other.

I couldn't stand her mother. I'm aware that was her whole point, that the character was designed to make you grit your teeth but even by the half way point I was flagging every time she appeared on the page and it was making it really hard for me to keep going. Every other character was fun though, even the ones you're meant to dislike, maybe Elsa just hit a little too close to home for me, I can normally enjoy the dislikable characters.

It was a fun cosy mystery though, I enjoyed the wartime setting and the three main characters are great, they compliment each other well and I really liked the man being the more physically weak of them. Great fun and another series I'd love to read more of.

~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~

[Roberta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Helena Dixon’s writing for some years now, so I was excited to be offered a review copy of Murder Most British, the 3rd book in her latest series.

It was lovely to share another adventure with Jane and Arthur. This time around, they’re investigating the murder of a young woman who was looking into irregularities with the BBC radio broadcasts.

The mystery was intriguing, most of the small group of people working at the building could have been involved. I very much enjoyed trying to figure it out.

Jane, Arthur, and Benson make a great group of characters. I enjoy seeing them interact and work together, especially Jane and Arthur, who have rather different attitudes to things. It is also good to see a main character with an illness, instead of everyone always being 100% healthy.

Overall, this was another great read from a favourite author. I definitely recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

London, October 1941. Tabitha Moore, a government typist who has been working at the BBC Bush House is found having been strangled. Miss Jane Treen,her colleague, handsome codebreaker Arthur Cilento & his manservant Benson are called in to investigate. Jane goes undercover as pianist for her Mother & Benson as a janitor. Whilst Arthur has a stack of manuscripts to view – looking for secret codes.
The third outing for the trio & another well written cosy mystery. There are a smallish group of suspects, there are secrets & rivalries. I really like both Jane & Arthur & of course the hugely organised ever present Benson, I love how they interact & bounce ideas off each other. I also really liked how the author brought to life a cold, smoggy, dark London. I didn’t guess who the villain was which is always a plus. I look forward to more
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Roz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very well written book and the latest in a hugely engaging cozy crime series. Protagonists Jane and Arthur are once again on a highly confidential mission, ably assisted by Arthur’s butler Benson. Jane and Arthur are immediately out to work undercover to discover who may be altering secret papers and murdering those that get in their way.

The book is an excellent example of this genre and written with great care for the era and will definitely appeal to those who love this style of book. The characters are delightful; Jane is slightly less prickly than in previous books and her relationship with Arthur is more understanding on both sides. The plot is intriguing and gives the reader a good sense of how life was during the war era for those looking to protect others.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 3rd book in this series had a fun turn where Jane gets to work for her mother (while pretending not to be her daughter) as her mother works for a radio broadcasting company. Arthur and Bensen get to join her undercover to try to learn who killed a woman trying to pass along information about possible spies and secret messages. While Arthur works on the codes, Bensen is behind the scenes as a janitor, Jane works as a pianist, interacting with the people who are part of the various programming and trying to determine if one of them is a murderer. The culprit tries to distract and scare the group away but they push forward together, even if it means Arthur must help take care of Jane's cat Marmaduke (who he hates).

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.

[Janette · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is third in The Secret Detective Agency series and Jane, Arthur and Benson are back in London where they are investigating the murder of a BBC employee and possibly enemy agents broadcasting secret information.
I enjoyed both of the previous two books but this one sadly didn’t grip me as much. The story is set in London in 1941 and Helena Dixon’s historical accuracy is excellent as always but I felt that on this occasion there was almost too much and it was slowing the story down. I like the three main characters but some of the things that we are told get a bit repetitive at times too.
However, it was still an intriguing mystery and I enjoyed meeting Jane’s mother again as she definitely adds a bit of light relief to the books.
My thanks as always to NetGalley and the publishers for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Rachel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I don’t usually rate or review books because I use Goodreads mainly to track my reading, but this book was, unfortunately, a real disappointment. I quite enjoyed the Miss Underhay series, but I don’t like this series as much because I don’t particularly like the two main characters. And then the writing of this book was so choppy and off that it was struggle to finish. The premise of the story was good, but the book contained a lot of filler of people sitting around eating and smoking that didn’t advance the plot or the characters. I kept wondering if it was written by AI or something. Among awkward writing and turns of phrase, the constant use of “the enemy” (no mention of Germans, though) and “manservant” (surely there are synonyms) also got distracting. Dixon has proved herself a better writer than this book demonstrated.