Murder in Paris

Miss Underhay #21

by Helena Dixon

Freshly baked baguettes and strong coffee, a moonlit walk beneath the twinkling lights of the Eiffel tower, sunset over the rooftops… and oh là là! A murder in the French capital? This is one for Kitty Underhay!

Paris, 1937. Kitty Underhay, with a croissant in hand and her handsome husband Matt by her side, is soaking up the delightfully Parisian charms of the French capital. Kitty attends a fashion show where she is enamoured by the dazzling gowns, but the afternoon takes a very sour turn when one of the models, Simone Belliste, is found dead with a pair of razor sharp tailoring scissors nearby.

Kitty and Matt are determined to work out who could be behind the murder. They perch in tiny cafés on cobblestone streets, deliberating over who would do such a thing. Simone had many admirers, including a wealthy older Englishman who had been wooing her and a handsome young Frenchman who was besotted with her. But she was also surrounded by glamorous designers, competitive models, and a jealous younger sister… and nobody is without motive.

Just as Kitty and Matt are jotting down their list of suspects, they receive a call: Simone’s sister Nathalie has been attacked, and her valuable folder of dressmaking patterns is missing. Can they unravel the secrets surrounding the two sisters? Or will they be next in line…?

With a murderer in their midst, can the team of two find the killer before it’s adieu for both of them? Or will this Parisian sojourn be their last?

Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey or Verity Bright will adore this utterly charming murder mystery. The perfect treat for cozy crime fans!

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Historical, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Audiobook

262 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 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

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 21 in the Miss Underhay Mystery series.

It is 1937 and Kitty and Matt visit Paris, accompanying Kitty's grandmother on a visit to an old friend. When an acquaintance is murdered their relaxing holiday turns into an investigation. This is a cosy mystery with a beautiful setting, lots of well planned P.I. work and a number of possible guilty parties. The ending puts Matt and Kitty in danger and is very tense.

There are several minor threads left open at the end so I think we can count on there being another book. I certainly hope so.

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

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty and her husband Matt, had decided to accompany Kitty's grandmother to Paris, as she'd been very unwell but was wanting to catch up with her long time good friend, Eliza, before she left Paris to settle in Devon. Grams had always wanted another visit to Paris and to visit a fashion show with the divine fashions. Grams, Kitty & Matt, plus Eliza, were welcomed to the private viewing, where one of the models was Eliza's son, Julien's girlfriend. They looked forward to meeting her. But it wasn't to be, as Simone was murdered after the show was over, but before she left her change rooms. Everyone was devastated, especially Julien & Nathalie, Simone's sister. Who would have killed the lovely, vibrant young woman?

Although on holiday, Matt & Kitty decided to do some investigating to help the local police in their search for answers. It was difficult, with the language barrier and not knowing how things ran in France. But Kitty was determined to find justice for Simone...

Murder in Paris is the 21st in the Miss Underhay series, and once again it was a well written, entertaining mystery by Helena Dixon. I love this series and hope it continues for a long time to come. Because it was set in Paris, we didn't see many of the usual characters, although Chief Inspector Greville made an appearance. And with Grams & Eliza living it up in the streets of Paris, and Kitty & Matt investigating, things were perfect :) Highly recommended.

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

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a fun, suspenseful series. Kitty and her husband, Matt are off to gay Paris with her grandmother for a short holiday. I love all three of these characters. The descriptions of Paris and the time period were extensively researched and described well. Of course, there was a murder, several red herrings. This was definitely a cozy and had me smiling. I’m looking forward to more in this series. Highly recommend.

I was blessed with an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.

[Bea27x · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is alright, kind of predictable who the culprit was, still ok for a light reading; but I found the book on occasion more boring than the others in the series, too much time spent on extra stuff, give me the investigation I don't care about them visiting places in Paris and what they ate.
P.S. the division of the chapters is criminal, with chapters ending on random moments in the middle of conversations.

[Tracy Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

An impromptu trip to Paris should be a time for romance and relaxation, but Kitty and Matt Bryant have hardly had time to unpack before finding themselves once again embroiled in a murder investigation! The victim had links to Kitty’s godmother and her son as well as both admirers and detractors within the uniquely glamorous world of French fashion design. As they search for clues, another attack takes place. Can they solve the case before they too become victims of a killer who is desperate to erase all clues and disappear?

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this as I have all the books in this brilliant series, and the details about pre-war Paris and the reactions to Wallis Simpson's fashion sense added another level to the back story. The brief excursion into Matt's hunt for his old wartime colleague definitely increased the tension, and I'm excited to see what happens next. Recommended.

[Sharon Rimmelzwaan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kittie Underhay is back! 21 books in, and I always adore reading the latest offering from Helena Dixon. They never get old, I don't think they ever will for me!

Kitty and Matt Underhay are visiting Paris accompanying her aunt. She wants to return to the city of her younger days and meet with her friend. They find themselves in the centre of a murder investigation yet again! This time, it's the French police they are dealing with, but there is a lot for Kitty and Matt to dig up. Will they be able to solve this one?

As always, Helena Dixon has impeccably researched Paris of the 1930s. I was swept back in time with Kitty and Matt. I always feel like I am by Kitty's side, whichever book I am reading. The elegance and Joi de Vivre that I always think of with Paris was so present.

The characters are so well developed, with being a long-standing series. I feel like I am back with old friends whenever I return to these books. Murder in Paris is another brilliant read. I was glued to the Kindle yet again! A cosy mystery series I would 100% recommend!

[June Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

By sheet serendipity, I ran across a video clip of the light-show at the Eiffel Tower for Bastille Day as I was settling down to finish this book. Between the fireworks and twinkling, changing lights on the Tower, it set the perfect reading mood. In this mystery, set in 1937, Kitty and Matt are there to accompany her Gram on a nostalgia trip with a childhood friend, Eliza, and her grandson Julian. Those familiar with the series can surely predict what happens. Yep. You guessed it. A murder. Not only that, but the victim is the model girlfriend of Julian, Simone, and Simon's sister Natalie was found beside her body holding a bloody pair of scissors. So much for Kitty and Matt's hoped for relaxing trip to Paris.

Fortunately for us readers, as they follow the twisty trail of clues, we do get to tag along on several virtual moments as they venture through Paris. For instance, a scenic river cruise and ritzy meal in the Eiffel Tower's towering restaurant. To help place us in time, several references are made about the abdication of the King and Wallis Simpson, not to mention the rise of Coco Chanel as a designer. Very appropriate as the seemingly cut-throat fashion world is front and center throughout. I won't detail the plot but will say that the main characters are well defined, as is Violette, Eliza's pampered poodle. Through it all we get nicely described snippets of the Paris of the time, including during Matt's early morning stroll that showcases the working man ranks that make it all happen. I was glad to see Dixon give a nod to them, I might add. Matt's effort to ensure Kitty gets a very special view of the city was a nice touch and rather makes up for his unavoidable, whirlwind trip home at one point. Long time readers, that was connected to the long-running investigation of his old war buddy Redvers. Nope, not saying any more. I'm just glad that didn't set off more than an uncomfortable dream given his PTSD due to wartime experiences.

Bottom line, a lively read with interesting characters, a peek into the fashion/design world, and the often complicated human relationships between characters. And, in Kitty's case, a seemingly bottomless supply of croissants. I'm with Matt. How does she stay so slim? There's an emphasis on family and family needs/support, which is always a plus for me, as is the warm, respectful relationship between Kitty and Matt. Lots of secrets and surprises to keep you guessing and, if you're like me, changing your mind about whodunit. Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for making this early peek into the continuing adventures of Kitty and Matt available to me, not to mention the fun virtual trip to 1937 Paris.

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Paris is the 21st book in the Miss Underhay Mystery series. In this outing, Kitty and Matt are in Paris with Kitty's grandmother visiting her old friend Eliza DeTourner, Kitty's godmother. When they all arrive they are invited to attend a small private fashion show from the House of Dido. One of the models, Simone Belliste, is someone Julian, Eliza's son is interested in marrying. Just after the show, Simone is found dead in the dressing room with a pair of tailoring scissors in the hands of her sister, Nathalie standing over the body. Nathalie claims she found her dead and picked up the scissors automatically. Of course, that makes her the prime suspect. Although Kitty and Matt own their own private investigation firm, they are not on the case. This doesn't stop Kitty from investigating and trying to find the real killer.

I enjoyed this story, but without some of the regular characters, ie: Mrs. Craven, Chief Inspector Greville, and Inspector Lewis as well as Alice, Kitty's BFF, there was just a small something missing. This is a case that Kitty and matt are not invited into, but they still play a huge role in finding the killer. There are a lot of suspects; an English investor in House of Dido, Sir Humphrey, who wants to sell his shares, Mme Marie Dido who owns the company but is upset that Simone wants more money, another jealous model or Monseiur Mangan, the main designer for House of Dido. Inspector LeJeune has to question each person, check their alibis and follow up, which gives Kitty time to do some investigating of her own. When a second victim is found, the need to solve this quickly becomes more urgent before someone else is killed. Kitty is a great character. She is smart, friendly, independent and extremely intuitive. She and Matt are now married and they work so well together. I enjoyed seeing her grandmother have a larger part in their investigation. The final showdown puts Kitty and others in some danger, but fortunately when the murderer tries to escape with a hostage is eventually surrounded by the gendarmes. The culprit was someone I suspected, but the motive was not one I had considered. It was a thrilling end to this mystery. There is also mention of a case that has been shared in a couple of previous books, but still not solved, as well as the upcoming wedding of Kitty's best friend, which I hope will happen in the next book. This is another enjoyable addition to the series, but I do prefer them solving their mysteries a bit closer to home.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty Underhay’s French adventure turns deadly in Helena Dixon’s gripping new page-turner, Murder in Paris.

Kitty is in Paris with her gorgeous husband Matt enjoying the sights, eating croissants and taking in all the gorgeous scenery the French capital has to offer when things turn sour when she stumbles upon the dead body of Simone Belliste, a beautiful young woman who had been murdered in broad daylight. With the only clue being a pair of scissors left at the scene, Kitty and Matt cannot help but wonder who might the killer be and when one of the suspects turns out to the be the son of one of Kitty’s grandmother’s old friends, the redoubtable detective duo vow to get to the bottom of this mystery.

Simone is a woman with plenty of skeletons in her closet and her fair share of enemies, who all had a motive for wanting her dead. Could one of her many friends be the killer? Her jealous sister? Or the mysterious Englishman who had been wooing her? When Simone’s sister Nathalie is attacked at her home after a break-in where several precious items had been stolen, Kitty and Matt begin to untangle a twisted web of secrets involving the two sisters. But might their involvement in this case put them in direct line of fire?

With a murderer in their midst, can Kitty and Matt find out whodunnit before it’s too late? Or will this Parisian sojourn be their last?

Full of vivid scenes of Parisian life in the 1930s, red herrings, twists and turns and nail-biting suspense that will keep readers gleefully turning the pages late into the night, Murder in Paris is the latest irresistible mystery by Helena Dixon and it’s an absolute corker! Kitty and Matt are once again on the case in this exciting and unpredictable page-turner which is an absolute struggle to put down.

Fun, entertaining and hugely enjoyable, mystery fans will not want to miss the latest Kitty Underhay adventure by Helena Dixon, Murder in Paris.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Beau Wasserman (Depression Arc) · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review: Murder in Paris (A Miss Underhay Mystery Book 21)
By Helena Dixon
Publisher: Bookouture

I absolutely love Helena Dixon’s books, and Murder in Paris is yet another wonderful entry in her Miss Underhay Mystery series. At twenty-one books in, you might expect things to feel repetitive, but Dixon proves once again that she can keep the series fresh, engaging, and utterly charming. Every time I pick up one of her books, I know I’m going to be transported into a clever mystery with characters I’ve grown to adore.

This time, Kitty and Matthew are in Paris, and the change of scenery is such a treat. Dixon brings the city to life with her usual eye for historical detail. The cafés, the streets, and the Parisian atmosphere are woven beautifully into the mystery. I love how Helena always makes her settings feel vivid without ever slowing the pace of the story.

The mystery itself is classic Dixon: well-plotted, full of intriguing suspects, and sprinkled with red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Kitty continues to be a fantastic heroine, intelligent, compassionate, and brave. Her partnership with Matthew is one of my favorite parts of the series. Their teamwork, respect, and affection shine through, giving the story heart alongside the suspense.
What keeps me coming back to Helena Dixon’s books is her consistency. She writes cozies that are smart, satisfying, and comforting in the best way. They are true page-turners that also feel like catching up with old friends. Murder in Paris shows that even after twenty-one books, there is still plenty of life, charm, and mystery in this series.

Verdict: A delightful and atmospheric cozy mystery that proves why Helena Dixon remains one of my favorite authors in the genre. I can’t wait to see where Kitty and Matthew go next.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder in Paris by Helena Dixon takes Matt, Kitty, and her grandmother to Paris to see an old friend of her grandmother’s. It has come at the perfect time as Mrs. Treadwell had just recovered from pneumonia and had been kind of down. The friend, Eliza, had lost her husband and was moving back to Devon but had invited them as a last chance to visit places they had gone as young women. Matt and Kitty were ready for a holiday before their busy season and so Matt arranged everything. One of the highlight was to be a fashion show at a Paris couture house, something Mrs. Treadwell had longed to do. It also turned out that one of the models was the woman Julian, Eliza’s son, hoped to marry. The trip and the couture both started off fabulously until Simone ended up dead in a pool of her own blood in the dressing room. Her sister, Nathalie, was holding the pair of scissors that appeared to be the murder weapon. She was in shock.

The police arrived and seemed competent and friendly. Sadly Matt was called back to England for a day to identify his brother-in-arms after a deadly fire appeared to have taken his life. Kitty and Mrs. Treadwell stayed on and gathered information as well as enjoying Paris. It was an interesting investigation with several surprises around the bend. There was also another murder; the man who had been the prime suspect. As always the mystery was a good on, as was the one bleeding over from England. The trip was a success. Kitty and Matt are a terrific pair, both investigatively and matrimonially. Mrs. Treadwell and her friend are both good characters. I am sure we will see more of Eliza when she returns to England to live. Good story. Great characters.

I was invited to read Murder in Paris by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #HelenaDixon #MurderInParis

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty Underhay and her husband Matt might finally get a break from their private investigator duties when Kitty is unexpectedly asked to accompany her grandmother to Paris. As they soon will see, their trip to Paris won’t be a relaxing getaway. Almost as soon as they arrive, a murder occurs.

Kitty is thrilled that her grandmother will be able to reconnect with her old friend, Eliza, during their visit in Paris. However, Eliza soon realizes that she has much to be concerned about. It turns out that the victim of the murder was her son Julian’s girlfriend, Simone. Simone was a stunning model with a promising future in the fashion and design industry. Naturally, Julian is devastated. He is not alone in his shock, however. Simone’s sister, Nathalie, also appears to be in shock. How could the glamorous world of fashion and beauty be the setting for such a brutal murder? Kitty is resolute in her determination to uncover the truth.

As events unfold, Kitty begins to realize that things aren’t as they seem. Alongside Matt, Kitty embarks on a journey throughout the enchanting city of Paris. They explore the world of fashion and savor delectable foods, all while uncovering an underlying sense of discontent. Their investigation reveals that the seemingly idyllic environment they find themselves in is far more complex and multifaceted than they could have ever imagined.

As always, Helene Dixon’s series captivates readers, and this 21st installment in the series is no exception. With its delightful characters, enchanting plots, and unexpected twists, this quick read is a pure delight.

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

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder in Paris" in exchange for my honest opinion.

This is the 21st book in the wonderful Miss Underhay series. As always the story starts with advertisements in the Torbay Herald. This time it's June 1937 and there is a happy announcement about the engagement of Robert Potter and Alice Miller.

Kitty's grandmother Mrs. Treadwell has been ill and has not been herself as she recovers. She receives a letter from her dear friend Eliza DeTourner, Kitty's godmother in Paris. She convinces Kitty that they should all go to Paris for a little holiday, where she can continue recuperating and meet up with Eliza to go to a private fashion show which has been a long held dream of grams. This is to be her big chance because Eliza has decided to move back to England.

Of course, where Kitty goes, murder follows. A murder at the fashion show sets off an exciting case with twists and turns, everyone at one point is a suspect. A story of models, fashion designs, red herrings, surprising family ties, jealousy - with a delusional killer who has no remorse.

The Redvers Palmerston case continues when there is a fire and CI Greville asks Matt to return urgently to see if a body they found is Redvers.

A wonderful addition to the series. The only sad part is that Alice is no longer in a position to accompany Kitty as her ladies maid. It was always interesting when they worked together to solve a case but Alice has been following her dream of having her own shop. Very much looking forward to seeing what happens to Kitty next.

[Dallass · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have found myself falling into a habit with the books of this series. On the morning of their release, I grab it on KU, read it, and then spend the next few months eagerly awaiting the next book. And, surprising no one, that's exactly what happened this morning.

Now, let me start with the fact that I really do love these characters. I have from the first book (although I'm still not a fan of Mrs. Craven), and there are usually new characters from each story that I wish could become more frequent guests. In this book, the gang haul their butts over to Paris for non-murderous/investigation reasons, but soon enough get dragged into the current murder mystery. The case this time round was quite involved, and while not a closed circle mystery, it does give off that kind of energy as there were only a select few individuals who could have done it. The location was not wedged into the narrative to bulk it out, but was a lovely backdrop for a murder in what should be a wonderful family trip.

Now, I won't say anything else as I don't want to spoil anyone for what happened, in the UK or in Paris, but it was a fast paced and fun read that I managed to devour in about two and a half hours. Of course I will be picking up book 22, and already have it earmarked in my wish list so I won't forget it. If this piques your interest, I highly recommend the series, but you must start from the first book so as to get all the history and context. This is not a series you can just jump into anywhere.

3.75 stars

[Liz Fielding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kitty's beloved grandmother has been unwell. When Eliza De Tourner, an old friend -- and Kitty's godmother -- invites her to visit her in Paris with the promise of an invitation to a fashion show, she seems to pick up. Kitty is sure it will do her good but concerned about her frailty, she and Matt decide to accompany her.

They arrive at the Ritz but when Eliza arrives she confesses that she is concerned about her son, Julian, He is in love with Simone Belliste, a model at the fashion house, who she does not think at all suitable.

Paris is wonderful and the fashion show is everything that Kitty's grandmother had dreamed it would be. The lead model is Simone, who is stunningly beautiful but has ambitions to open her own fashion house. After the show, she doesn't appear. Her sister goes to look for her, but then there is a scream and they discover Simone, stabbed with the bloody tailor's shears that her sister is holding.

The French police inspector is both charming and efficient. No bumbling copper here... But there is a lot to uncover. Simone's past, the financial problems of the fashion house, Simone's missing designs, jealousy... All human life is here.

Helena Dixon exactly captures the era and location with the style and elegance of Paris in the late 1930s with this engrossing murder mystery.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

1937. Kitty Bryant’s Grams is recovering from a bout of pneumonia when she receives a letter for her best friend Eliza. Eliza, Kitty’s Godmother, lives in Paris but now a widow is planning to return to the UK, she invites Grams for a nostalgic visit. So Matt, Kitty & Grams head to Paris. They attend a fashion show but the afternoon takes a very sour turn when one of the models, Simone Belliste, is found dead with a pair of razor sharp tailoring scissors nearby. Kitty and Matt are determined to work out who could be behind the murder.
Just as Kitty and Matt are jotting down their list of suspects, they receive a call: Simone’s sister Nathalie has been attacked, and Simone’s valuable folder of dressmaking patterns is missing.
The twenty first book in this lovely series & another well written engrossing book. It could be read on its own but as I always say I’ve to read a series from the beginning & I’ve loved how relationships have developed, especially Matt & Kitty’s. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as a few red herrings. I was left guessing for much of the book but did guess who the villain was & it was a guess. I also loved the backdrop of Paris which added to my enjoyment
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

1937 Paris
Missy's grandmother is recovering slowly from a bout of pneumonia when a friend (Missy's godmother) invites them to Paris to help bolster her in the coming move to England, away from Paris and her only son. So Missy, husband Matt, and grandmother go to Paris and expect nothing much. When they get there, they come up against another murder to join forces with the gendarmes, a distraught fiancé, an unhinged sister of the deceased, and a reopening of a personal case that they thought had been done and dusted. Excellent read!
This is a very welcome new installment for those of us who are addicted to this series.
This is hardly an unbiased review as I really love the Missy Underhay series. Pub Date Aug 26, 2025
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from Bookouture via NetGalley.
#MurderinParis by @helenadixonuk #MissUnderhayMysteriesBk21 @bookouture ***** #review
#BritishCozyCrimeMystery @bookouture #Paris #cozymystery #NetGalleyreview @goodreads @bookbub @librarythingofficial @barnesandnoble #booksamillion #bookshop_org @Waterstones #bookshop_org_uk #kobo #England #MurderInvestigations #privateInvestigators #twisty #jealousy #delusions #notdeadyet

[Acantha · Rating 3 out of 5]

A highly enjoyable cosy murder mystery in Paris!

The setting was a dream, with the writer really leaning into the city and the atmosphere. I always enjoy it when these books have little moments of history within them, showing that time is passing by. Here it was with mentions of the Duke of Windsor and his new wife. I haven't read any the of the previous ones - but this does inspire me to want to go and track them down - so I didn't have any investment in the over arcing plot that was mentioned but I was intrigued by the little breadcrumbs scattered. I also really like how Matt does have PTSD from his time in the Great War. So many of these stories ignore the past.

The murder itself was entertaining and well done, there were plenty of red herrings, plenty of good suspects and twists and turns. It wasn't too difficult to work it out, but that is never the point, its the journey rather than the destination. And this journey was full of beautiful sights, delightful food and entertaining characters that will linger. I felt invested in these characters and I would have liked to have learnt more about them, and what happens now the murder has been solved.

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

[loopyloulaura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kitty and Matt take her grandmother to Paris to reconnect with an old friend. Eliza’s son is romantically involved with Simone, a model, and his mother does not approve. Kitty and her family go to a fashion house to enjoy a show but afterwards Simone is found stabbed to death...
Murder in Paris is the 21st book in the Kitty Underhay (now Mrs Bryant) series of historical cosy murder mysteries. There are no spoilers about earlier cases but Matt is dealing with an issue from previous books.
Once again Kitty and Matt are embroiled in a murder investigation. Their relaxing family trip to Paris is shattered by the murder of a model and suspicion falls upon her godmother's son. The police uncover other secrets and another arrest is made who then commissions Kitty and Matt to clear his name.
There are lots of suspects and motives to be explored and ruled out. Despite being set in France, there is little French as many of the characters are English. I enjoyed the descriptions of the places and food which fully set the scene and underpin the plot. There is also an ongoing plotline for Matt about a missing man he knew in the trenches. I really liked the care and consideration Kitty and Matt show to Grams over the course of the book.
Murder in Paris is an enjoyable murder mystery.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the the twenty first book in the series but can be enjoyed as a stand alone.
Kitty and Matt head off for a break in Paris but they soon become embroiled in a murder mystery.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. My review is given voluntarily.
I really enjoy the historical aspect of this series. Helena Dixon brings the era alive with historical details .Wider historical context is described, for example the abdication crisis. There is also many design details that add to the atmosphere such as the descriptions of a fashionable engagement ring and the architecture of a contemporary cinema.
Much as I love a cozy crime set in England, this diversion to Paris was fun.
The writing style is competent and flows well. The investigation of the crime and its eventual resolution is well done and plausible.
with regard to characterisation, Kitty and Matt are likable without being irritating. However, I feel I do not know much about their thoughts and feelings and more particularly their foibles. Many of the periphery characters are more fleshed out than the main protagonists and all the more interesting for it.
This book would appeal to anyone looking for historical escapism that is competent but not too taxing.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 21st installment in this cozy historical mystery series is a delight.

At the behest of her grandmother, Kitty and Matt are taking her to Paris for a visit with an old friend, Eliza DeTourner. A bit of sightseeing and some marvelous food are on the program, and to top it off, they've all been invited to a private fashion show at the House of Dido. It seems that Eliza's handsome son, Julian, is in love with one of the models, Simone, and he's eager for them all to meet his beloved. All is going perfectly until Simone is found dead in the dressing room immediately after the show. How can it be that everywhere Matt and Kitty go, a dead body turns up? Of course they involve themselves in the murder investigation with plenty of suspects to question and even more secrets to unravel.

I really enjoy this series and reading another one is like taking a nice little break from current times. The characters are very well-developed and readers have been there for all the changes in them and in their personal lives through the previous mysteries. If you love the description and details about life in England and on the continent in the 1930s, you will really want to check out this series. I think it best to start from the beginning so that you can get the completely backstory to appreciate where the characters are at now in their relationships.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book to read, review, and recommend.
Blog Tour Stop 8-28-2025

[Roberta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of the Miss Underhay Mysteries since the very beginning (Murder at the Dolphin Hotel), and they just keep getting better and better.

This time, Kitty and Matt are off to Paris, accompanying Kitty’s grandmother, who hasn’t been well. It isn’t long before bodies start appearing, and our sleuths are investigating.

I really enjoyed this story. I had suspicions of the murderer from quite early on, but I could never be sure! And it was enormous fun trying to figure out if I was right. There were plenty of suspects to choose from.

I also enjoyed seeing some of Paris through Matt and Kitty’s eyes, as they did manage to get a little sightseeing done in between investigating.

Overall, this was another excellent and intriguing mystery from a favourite author. I highly recommend the whole series!

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

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

When her grandmother wants to visit Paris and Kitty’s godmother, too,
Matt and Kitty agree to go along with a holiday in view.
However, a treat to a private fashion show
Proves to be their return to a murder mystery, you know!

The victim was the girlfriend of Kitty’s godmother’s son
A model they were due to meet when the show had done.
The killer must have been at the show, too,
So Kitty and Matt can’t help looking for every clue.

Another fascinating case with twists galore
As Kitty and Matt seek evidence that police can’t ignore.
There are red herrings, surprises and sightseeing, too,
As this intrepid duo seek every vital clue.

A thoroughly enjoyable historical murder mystery, a great read
I hope it proves to be the next book that you need.
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this my honest review.

[Bonnie Gleckler Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Quiet Trip Down Memory Lane for Grams

Once again a most engaging novel about the exploits of Matt and Kitty Bryant. This time they are easily coaxed into taking Kitty’s Grandmother to Paris to visit an old friend. What they expected to be a restful and relaxing vacation turns complex for the young couple.
While Grams is out with her friend Eliza reacquainting theirselves with the many splendors of the Parisian scene, the Bryant’s are pulled into an unexpected murder investigation.
What has happened, a beautiful runway model is murdered just after a showing, her design sketches disappear, and her coworkers are being investigated for being involved in the murder.
Can you believe this is book number 21 of the Miss Underhay Mysteries? I hear offering number 22 is on its way.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great installment of Kitty & Matt's married adventures in sleuthing. Kitty's Grandmother hasn't been well and wants to go to Paris to revisit old times with Kitty's godmother. Kitty and Matt join her and end up involved in solving the murder of the godmother's son's fiancée. I enjoy when the group travels to new locations and brings in fresh characters and settings. There were multiple suspects with strong motives and some twists and turns to reveal the murderer. A very slight detour for Matt to look into his case involving an old war buddy's possible demise, but then back to the case. I thought the series was getting stale a few books back, but it's definitely turned around.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.

[Homerun2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

The Miss Underhay (now Mrs. Bryant) cozy series is always reliably well-plotted and entertaining. This time out Matt and Kitty and her grandmother are off to Paris for a week of sight-seeing and relaxation. But of course, it isn't long before a dead body turns up.

They are viewing a semi-private haute couture fashion showing when one of the models is found stabbed. Matt and Kitty are on the scene so they can't help but investigate. There are several suspects: business rivals, a fiancee and his family, co-workers and relatives.

Matt and Kitty are appealing characters, mostly blessedly angst-free. They are logical and competent investigators and the books move right along. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Moriah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher; all opinions expressed are my own. As a fan of this now long running series, I always enjoy when Kitty and Matt get an opportunity to venture outside of England and this book didn't disappoint. Kitty's grandmother recently was ill and hoping to lift her spirits, Kitty and Matt agree to accompany her to Paris when her longtime friend and Kitty's godmother, Eliza invites her to visit and fulfill a dream to attend a Paris fashion show. Unfortunately, one of the models dies after the show and due to her connection to Eliza's son, Kitty and Matt find themselves investigating yet another murder. There is no shortage of suspects, and I found the mystery to be fun even though I was able to figure out the who and the why fairly early on. I loved the descriptions of both the Parisian fashion scene during this time as well as 1920's Paris overall. There is a tiny bit of the story related to the recently introduced over-arching mystery related to Redvers who Matt recuperated with during the Great War that promises to pay off in future titles. I'm definitely still enjoying this series that continues to both feel fresh and entertain.

[Beachcomber · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up. An enjoyable addition to this long running cost historical mystery, this one is set in Paris so we don’t see most of the usual local characters or locations. It’s a fairly straightforward mystery and like others, I did spot whodunnit quite easily, but it was still a pleasant read as always.

Business must be booming though, for them to afford a swanky trip to Paris and umpteen taxis here there and everywhere, and if I had a pound for every cup of tea they drank…!

I wonder if the next one will have a mystery in the run up to Alice’s wedding, or at the event itself? Yes, I’m already looking forward to the next book…

I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.

[Shree · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely cozy mystery! My first book by this author and I read it in one sitting.
I figured out who the killer was early on, but still enjoyed reading the book till the end while waiting for Kitty and Captain Mathew Bryant to catch on. The historical setting and old fashioned vibes were reminiscent of books by authors like Agatha Christie, although the mood of this book was much lighter.
Anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries would find this to be a perfectly lovely book to curl up with at the end of a day.
I thank netgalley and Bookouture for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kim Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining story. One that takes Kitty and Matt, along with Kitty's beloved Grams to Paris. Of course Kitty cannot go anywhere with there being a murder and naturally she has to try and solve it. As time went on it became apparent who the perpetrator was, and I was surprised it took them so long to realise it.
There was one rather annoying thing. When Kitty and Matt visit Nathalie after she has been attacked Kitty notices Matt has slight suspicions regarding the door. However this is never mentioned again, so not only did Matt and Kitty forget about it, it seems that the author did as well!