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Duchess of Stortford Mystery #2
A Husband is Hushed Up (A Duchess of Stortford Mystery): A Victorian whodunnit with a hint of humour
A fatal fall. A duchess determined to uncover the truth. And absolutely no time for tea.
Fenshire, 1891. It was meant to be a birthday celebration in the country—cucumber sandwiches, polite conversation, and maybe a waltz or two. But when the Duke of Stortford is found dead at the foot of the stairs everything goes dreadfully sideways. The police declare it a tragic accident, but his wife, Alice, has her doubts. After all, only hours before, the Duke had promised to make a go of their marriage. Now he’s inconveniently deceased.
Driven by a need for answers and helped by her fiercely loyal maid Maud, her observant footman George, and her childhood friend Lord Rushton, Alice sets about uncovering the truth. But as she navigates a house full of secrets, simmering tensions, and more than one guest with murderously bad manners, her suspect pool grows to include those closest to her. Can she piece together the truth? Or will her husband’s murderer get away with it after all?
The guests are leaving. The killer is among them. Time is running out…
With its blend of scandal, suspense, and wit, A Husband is Hushed Up is ideal for readers who love daring heroines, Victorian house party intrigue, and a mystery as twisty as it’s cozy.
Fenshire, 1891. It was meant to be a birthday celebration in the country—cucumber sandwiches, polite conversation, and maybe a waltz or two. But when the Duke of Stortford is found dead at the foot of the stairs everything goes dreadfully sideways. The police declare it a tragic accident, but his wife, Alice, has her doubts. After all, only hours before, the Duke had promised to make a go of their marriage. Now he’s inconveniently deceased.
Driven by a need for answers and helped by her fiercely loyal maid Maud, her observant footman George, and her childhood friend Lord Rushton, Alice sets about uncovering the truth. But as she navigates a house full of secrets, simmering tensions, and more than one guest with murderously bad manners, her suspect pool grows to include those closest to her. Can she piece together the truth? Or will her husband’s murderer get away with it after all?
The guests are leaving. The killer is among them. Time is running out…
With its blend of scandal, suspense, and wit, A Husband is Hushed Up is ideal for readers who love daring heroines, Victorian house party intrigue, and a mystery as twisty as it’s cozy.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 27, 2025
About the author
Helen Golden
29 books116 followersHelen Golden spins crimes that are charmingly British, delightfully deadly, and served with a twist of humour.
With quirky characters, clever red herrings, and plots that keep the pages turning, she’s the author of the much-loved A Right Royal Cozy Investigation series, following Lady Beatrice and her friends—including one clever little dog—as they uncover secrets hidden in country houses and royal palaces. Her new historical mystery series, The Duchess of Stortford Mysteries, is set in Victorian England and introduces an equally curious sleuth from Lady Beatrice’s own family tree—where murders are solved over cups of tea, whispered gossip, and overheard conversations in drawing rooms and grand estates.
Helen lives in a quintessential English village in Lincolnshire with her husband, stepdaughter, and a menagerie of pets—including a dog, several cats, a tortoise, and far too many fish.
If you love clever puzzles, charming settings, and sleuths with spark, her books are waiting for you.
With quirky characters, clever red herrings, and plots that keep the pages turning, she’s the author of the much-loved A Right Royal Cozy Investigation series, following Lady Beatrice and her friends—including one clever little dog—as they uncover secrets hidden in country houses and royal palaces. Her new historical mystery series, The Duchess of Stortford Mysteries, is set in Victorian England and introduces an equally curious sleuth from Lady Beatrice’s own family tree—where murders are solved over cups of tea, whispered gossip, and overheard conversations in drawing rooms and grand estates.
Helen lives in a quintessential English village in Lincolnshire with her husband, stepdaughter, and a menagerie of pets—including a dog, several cats, a tortoise, and far too many fish.
If you love clever puzzles, charming settings, and sleuths with spark, her books are waiting for you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 11, 2025
I am loving this new series from Helen Golden. The class system, the affected manners, the stiff upper lips. It's amazing that any crime could be solved when the police agree an accident without investigating. When everyone hides behind what are considered acceptable manners. When a woman with an opinion is told it's not proper and is in danger of being labelled 'hysterical'. I love the way Alice thwarts convention and is not only not afraid to get involved, but positively determined. Her trusty sidekicks George the footman and Maud, her ladies maid are once again in the thick of the action and her childhood friend Lord Rushton, reluctantly steps up to help.
A country house weekend to celebrate her father's birthday ends in tragedy when Alice discovers her husband's dead body halfway down the stairs. Alice doesn't for a moment believe it was the accident that her eldest brother has determined it to be and quietly sets about figuring out timelines and interviewing suspects. Will she find the killer before the house guest leave for home?
I'll admit I did figure out who and how reasonable early, but the why and the little details surrounding the death eluded me and it didn't in anyway detract from my enjoyment of the story. Helen's characters are well crafted, the plot solid with clues and red herrings aplenty. 5*
A country house weekend to celebrate her father's birthday ends in tragedy when Alice discovers her husband's dead body halfway down the stairs. Alice doesn't for a moment believe it was the accident that her eldest brother has determined it to be and quietly sets about figuring out timelines and interviewing suspects. Will she find the killer before the house guest leave for home?
I'll admit I did figure out who and how reasonable early, but the why and the little details surrounding the death eluded me and it didn't in anyway detract from my enjoyment of the story. Helen's characters are well crafted, the plot solid with clues and red herrings aplenty. 5*
November 16, 2025
A nincompoop husband who ignored his wife until she attracted the attention of a handsome admirer.
The husband’s longstanding paramour who feared his burgeoning interest in another woman openly pursuing him.
A foolish young aristocrat involved in shady gambling schemes.
And the servants who noticed everything and everyone.
Was it a tragic accident or did someone push the philandering husband to his untimely death?
And, another intriguing appearance by an iconic sleuth who supports our heroine in her quest to bring justice not only for the victim but also for all impacted by the tragedy.
Although it was my pleasure to receive this ARC from the author, it was completely my choice to share my honest review.
The husband’s longstanding paramour who feared his burgeoning interest in another woman openly pursuing him.
A foolish young aristocrat involved in shady gambling schemes.
And the servants who noticed everything and everyone.
Was it a tragic accident or did someone push the philandering husband to his untimely death?
And, another intriguing appearance by an iconic sleuth who supports our heroine in her quest to bring justice not only for the victim but also for all impacted by the tragedy.
Although it was my pleasure to receive this ARC from the author, it was completely my choice to share my honest review.
November 19, 2025
An Unexpected Twist!
This is the latest installment in a new series and makes for a very pleasant, light read. There were a number of red herrings scattered throughout and the ending was truly not what I expected. I always enjoy reading about the lifestyle, homes, fashions and mannerisms of bygone eras and this book provided those details. It is also fun that another well known period detective comes in toward the end. I am looking forward to the next volume to see how our heroine adjusts to her new life.
This is the latest installment in a new series and makes for a very pleasant, light read. There were a number of red herrings scattered throughout and the ending was truly not what I expected. I always enjoy reading about the lifestyle, homes, fashions and mannerisms of bygone eras and this book provided those details. It is also fun that another well known period detective comes in toward the end. I am looking forward to the next volume to see how our heroine adjusts to her new life.
November 20, 2025
Prior to reading this book that I received as an ARC reader, I purchased the 1st book in the series to catch up with the characters.
Having throughly enjoyed that book, I knew that 'A Husband is Hushed Up' would not disappoint me.
We are introduced to her husband in the first book, so it was a bit of a surprise to see him removed so early on. However this is all part of a vastly entertaining story.
Add in some humour and interesting comment on the social mores of the time and all add up to a story worth reading.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
Having throughly enjoyed that book, I knew that 'A Husband is Hushed Up' would not disappoint me.
We are introduced to her husband in the first book, so it was a bit of a surprise to see him removed so early on. However this is all part of a vastly entertaining story.
Add in some humour and interesting comment on the social mores of the time and all add up to a story worth reading.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
November 17, 2025
A family gathering with intrigue. Alice, Duchess of Stortford is attending her father’s birthday celebrations, as is her estranged husband who arrives with his mistress, also a family member. But, Vance, her husband wants to start over and they agree to try. Next morning he is found dead on the stairs, was it an accident or murder. Alice is sure it was an accident and sets about finding how, who and why. A very interesting story as the various threads untangle.
November 23, 2025
Driven by a need for answers, Alice the Duchess of Stortford, together with maid Maud, her observant footman George, and her childhood friend Lord Rushton, Alice sets about uncovering the truth to the untimely death of her estranged husband. As they navigate their way through the secrets at Fenton tensions simmer and time grows short as guests make their imminent plans to leave. Will the killer be found in time?
Loved the titillating scandals woven through the story with a sprinkle of suspense and wit to keep a readers interest, well worth the read. Looking forward to the next mystery Alice et al will encounter.
Loved the titillating scandals woven through the story with a sprinkle of suspense and wit to keep a readers interest, well worth the read. Looking forward to the next mystery Alice et al will encounter.
November 16, 2025
This was a pleasant read, even though I found the friendship between the Duchess and both her footman and butler to be unrealistic. I thought the genealogical connection between this book and the author’s previous series was a nice touch but not surprisingly perhaps, the duchess’s voice is very like (a bit too much like) that of Lady Beatrice in the modern series. Overall, I would have liked the characters to be a bit more fleshed out, and a bit more complicated.
November 24, 2025
This is the first full length book in Helen Golden's new series - and I absolutely loved it!
I loved the setting, and the characters.
As always, Helen Golden's style of writing is wonderful - she really pulls you into the story.
The plot is excellent with numerous twists and a surpise ending.
I truly loved it - and can't wait for the next!
I loved the setting, and the characters.
As always, Helen Golden's style of writing is wonderful - she really pulls you into the story.
The plot is excellent with numerous twists and a surpise ending.
I truly loved it - and can't wait for the next!
November 24, 2025
Loved the first installment of the series.
I liked the writing as well as the plot of the book and how the author deals with tough topics.
Though I kind of guessed the murderer, it was the end of the book that I really liked. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
I liked the writing as well as the plot of the book and how the author deals with tough topics.
Though I kind of guessed the murderer, it was the end of the book that I really liked. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 15, 2025
Alice, the Duchess of Stortford is off to house party at her parents' estate to celebrate her father's birthday. She has received a letter from her wandering husband, Vance that he would like to attempt a reconciliation and wished to discuss it with her at this weekend. Sadly, shortly after they set a time to discuss their marital situation more deeply, she is awakened by screaming. When she and her maid go to investigate, she finds Vance dead on the landing of the main staircase. Her older brother, Duncan is convinced it is an accident and expresses his opinion to the constable and detective. As a member of the "ton", they take his word and that is the end of it. Well, for everyone except Alice. She is convinced that her husband and the father of her children was murdered and she sets out to investigate and exact justice. With her maid, Maud and footman, George assisting, along with Baxter, Lord Rushton a childhood friend pressed into service, they set out to identify the killer. As they eliminate their suspects one by one, Alice is finally left with only one possibility. She is not happy about it and seeks a way to deal with the situation. In the manner of all competent lady detectives of the time, she manages to create a solution to both achieve justice and punish the killer.
While I did identify the killer some ways before Alice and her happy band of investigators, I completely enjoyed reading along as she made her way to the solution. The plot had more than enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. I enjoyed the characters finding at least one who might just have learned a bit about what women were capable of when not locked in a box.
I highly recommend this and will be looking for book 1 in the series. I certainly need to learn how Alice first met Sherlock Holmes!
While I did identify the killer some ways before Alice and her happy band of investigators, I completely enjoyed reading along as she made her way to the solution. The plot had more than enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. I enjoyed the characters finding at least one who might just have learned a bit about what women were capable of when not locked in a box.
I highly recommend this and will be looking for book 1 in the series. I certainly need to learn how Alice first met Sherlock Holmes!
November 22, 2025
Alice has found her husband crumpled at the bottom of the grand staircase, everyone believes it to be an accident but Alice knows something isn't right. The clues don't match an accident in her mind so she quietly starts investigating with a few trusted people. Wholly inappropriate for a woman of her station but Alice doesn't care about conventional rules. You can almost hear her say, "I am woman, hear me roar!"
This is book two in this fabulous series but the books are standalone and you won't feel lost. Especially since Ms Golden graciously puts a playlist of the characters in the back of her books, which is especially helpful when brain fog kicks in and you can't quite remember who's who.
I have to say this series is just getting better and better! The descriptions are so vivid you feel like you are there. Alice is such a fantastic character! She does not like to be told what she can and cannot do because she's a woman and/or too high class. Her instincts are spot on, even when it hurts.
The rest of the characters are well written too. Lady Cordelia practically oozed off the pages and you will almost feel Aunt Cora's disapproving glare.
I'm happy to say there will be more books in this series and I cannot wait. Enjoy
This is book two in this fabulous series but the books are standalone and you won't feel lost. Especially since Ms Golden graciously puts a playlist of the characters in the back of her books, which is especially helpful when brain fog kicks in and you can't quite remember who's who.
I have to say this series is just getting better and better! The descriptions are so vivid you feel like you are there. Alice is such a fantastic character! She does not like to be told what she can and cannot do because she's a woman and/or too high class. Her instincts are spot on, even when it hurts.
The rest of the characters are well written too. Lady Cordelia practically oozed off the pages and you will almost feel Aunt Cora's disapproving glare.
I'm happy to say there will be more books in this series and I cannot wait. Enjoy
December 5, 2025
Once you begin this book, you have to read it through to try and figure out the murder. You are treated to so many red-herrings and twists and turns with some humor thrown in that you just can't put it down once you begin. In this book, Alice the Duchess of Stortford has been invited to her parent's estate for her father's birthday party. Her womanizing husband, Vance, was too, since he had sent Alice a letter claiming he wanted to reconcile during this weekend. Funny though, just before they can sit down and discuss their marriage he is found dead on the stairs. Duncan, Alice's older brother tells the constable and detective it was an accident. But Alice doesn't believe it and is sure he was pushed. Having to investigate since it has been declared an accident, she dives into looking into the guests with the help of her maid, Maud, her footman, George, Baxter and her childhood friend, Lord Rushton. Having to deal with tensions, secrets and angry guests who want to leave, she and her crew have to eliminate all the potential suspects. This book keeps you guessing and trying to figure out a motive until the really good ending. I highly recommend this book. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
December 23, 2025
I have been so excited about this new series since reading the introductory novella and I love the author's present day royal series.
A Husband is Hushed Up is an historical murder mystery set in 1891, the first full length book in this series about a fictional British royal family.
Alice Duchess of Stortford is not looking forward to being reunited with her philandering husband at a family gathering. The couple briefly make up and plan to have a second go at their marriage, but just hours later Vance is dead on the stairs...
Alice is not content to accept that Vance's death was a terrible accident and hunts for clues. She is ably assisted by maid Maud and footman George as well as Baxter who has been a friend from childhood. Alice defies convention at every turn, being friendly towards servants, investigating a murder (even examining the corpse!), standing up for herself in an era when women were constrained by society rules.
The mystery was sustained well but I did spot the big clue and waited for Alice to put the puzzle together. I enjoyed the historical and royal aspects which added depth to the plot and characters. Alice is a fabulous lead character and I love this series as much as the modern version.
A Husband is Hushed Up is an excellent historical murder mystery.
A Husband is Hushed Up is an historical murder mystery set in 1891, the first full length book in this series about a fictional British royal family.
Alice Duchess of Stortford is not looking forward to being reunited with her philandering husband at a family gathering. The couple briefly make up and plan to have a second go at their marriage, but just hours later Vance is dead on the stairs...
Alice is not content to accept that Vance's death was a terrible accident and hunts for clues. She is ably assisted by maid Maud and footman George as well as Baxter who has been a friend from childhood. Alice defies convention at every turn, being friendly towards servants, investigating a murder (even examining the corpse!), standing up for herself in an era when women were constrained by society rules.
The mystery was sustained well but I did spot the big clue and waited for Alice to put the puzzle together. I enjoyed the historical and royal aspects which added depth to the plot and characters. Alice is a fabulous lead character and I love this series as much as the modern version.
A Husband is Hushed Up is an excellent historical murder mystery.
December 2, 2025
Helen Golden’s A Husband is Hushed Up is the second book in the Duchess of Stortford Mysteries and the first one I have read. The story takes place at the end of the nineteenth century. It mixes history with mystery and has a light, witty style.
Alice, the main character, is shown as a strong woman who will not give up. This makes her different from many female figures in Victorian stories. The book is not only about mystery but also about courage and voice.
After the police say her husband’s death was an accident, she does not give up and starts to investigate. She must face strict social rules and people who expect her to stay quiet. But she is clever, brave, and independent. She uses her sharp mind to follow clues and uncover secrets.
The book is written with humour as well as suspense. There are eccentric suspects, family tensions, and surprising twists. The style is cozy and easy to read, but it still keeps the reader curious.
Entertaining, compelling, well done. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
Alice, the main character, is shown as a strong woman who will not give up. This makes her different from many female figures in Victorian stories. The book is not only about mystery but also about courage and voice.
After the police say her husband’s death was an accident, she does not give up and starts to investigate. She must face strict social rules and people who expect her to stay quiet. But she is clever, brave, and independent. She uses her sharp mind to follow clues and uncover secrets.
The book is written with humour as well as suspense. There are eccentric suspects, family tensions, and surprising twists. The style is cozy and easy to read, but it still keeps the reader curious.
Entertaining, compelling, well done. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
February 26, 2026
The second book in the Duchess of Stortford series is as intriguiung as expected. A birthday celebration brings Alice in contact with her husband, the Duke of Stortford and his mistress!! What?!?!? Yes, the dratted man has the audacity to bring his mistress to a family birthday celebration. Alice can not believe Vance is really serious about a reconciliation but he begs for another chance. Before Alice and Vance really have a chance to resolve anything, he takes a tumble down a flight of stairs and is found dead at the bottom. Alice is grief stricken but also resolved to discover what really happened. She can not believe that Vance had so much to drink that he would have fallen on his own. Sure enough, Aliceand her faithful footman George find evidence that Vance did not fall of his own accord. Therein, they embark on a investigation to find out how the Duke met his death as well as the reasons. Alice can not just let the matter go unanswered. A really good mystery that keeps the reader engaged to the end.
November 28, 2025
A Husband is Hushed Up is the first full-length novel in Helen Golden's new historical mystery series (I have read the prequel).
The first book takes readers to a very familiar location, and alas, also quite a familiar tragedy as a body is discovered on the staircase early one morning. Alice determines to find the truth of what happened, even though everyone else is sure it's simply a tragic accident. While she's driven by the need to discover the truth, it is quite possible that she might regret her actions as the story unfolds.
This is another well-plotted mystery from Helen. I do love her mysteries. They're always a sure-fire hit for me, and a treat because a bit of a curse of also writing mysteries is that I often realise the threads and clues along the way. For this one, my suspicions were leaning in the right direction, but I'm not going to say why. That's a writer trick:)
Another excellent mystery, and I look forward to the series continuing.
The first book takes readers to a very familiar location, and alas, also quite a familiar tragedy as a body is discovered on the staircase early one morning. Alice determines to find the truth of what happened, even though everyone else is sure it's simply a tragic accident. While she's driven by the need to discover the truth, it is quite possible that she might regret her actions as the story unfolds.
This is another well-plotted mystery from Helen. I do love her mysteries. They're always a sure-fire hit for me, and a treat because a bit of a curse of also writing mysteries is that I often realise the threads and clues along the way. For this one, my suspicions were leaning in the right direction, but I'm not going to say why. That's a writer trick:)
Another excellent mystery, and I look forward to the series continuing.
November 23, 2025
Helen has always been a good story teller and for this new series she has embarked on a brand new era, totally different to her last series. All I can say is that Helen has absolutely smashed it ! This story had me riveted from the moment I read the opening paragraph. The story was carefully planned and executed with Helen’s unique style, keeping me on my toes wondering who was the culprit. The clues were all there, albeit hidden ! Helen’s ability to describe the scenes, the moods and thoughts of her many characters is key to enabling the reader to visualise what is going on and feeling the intensities of the storylines as they unfold. This is definitely a must read book !! What could be better than to give it, with the novella that preceded this book, as the ideal Christmas gift !
November 23, 2025
Helen Golden has crafted another captivating murder mystery with A Husband is Hushed Up. I was completely drawn into Alice’s journey as she navigates life on her own after her husband’s rumored infidelity. The story takes a dramatic turn during her father’s birthday celebration, when Alice and her loyal maid Maud discover her husband dead at the foot of the stairs. From that moment, I was hooked—each page revealed new secrets about the Duke of Stortford and expanded the list of possible suspects.
I genuinely loved reading this book. The plot kept me guessing, and the characters were well-developed, I couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery to read, I highly recommend grabbing a cup of tea and settling in with this story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
I genuinely loved reading this book. The plot kept me guessing, and the characters were well-developed, I couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery to read, I highly recommend grabbing a cup of tea and settling in with this story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
November 21, 2025
I found this historical cozy murder mystery entertaining.
Alice, the Duchess of Stortford, is the main character and believes her husband's death was not accidental. Set in England 1891, the societal norms of that time were all in favor to the men, women's actions were restricted, their views were not as important or even addressed. Alice has bucked this norm. She even has cordial, friendly and trusted relationships with her personal servants. She uses these relationships along with the assistance of a close family friend, to seek out what really happened. I enjoyed the variety of characters and the pace of the story. I am looking forward to this new series. There is prequel available, "An Heir is Misplaced" which I recommend too.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Alice, the Duchess of Stortford, is the main character and believes her husband's death was not accidental. Set in England 1891, the societal norms of that time were all in favor to the men, women's actions were restricted, their views were not as important or even addressed. Alice has bucked this norm. She even has cordial, friendly and trusted relationships with her personal servants. She uses these relationships along with the assistance of a close family friend, to seek out what really happened. I enjoyed the variety of characters and the pace of the story. I am looking forward to this new series. There is prequel available, "An Heir is Misplaced" which I recommend too.
I received a free advance copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 23, 2025
The Duchess of Stortford is hosting a number of people at a house party for her father's 60th birthday when her husband is found dead on the stairs, apparently from a stumble. Several things strike her as being odd - although the men dismiss her concerns. Quite put out, and having previously found that she enjoys solving problems, she stands up for her views and, with the help of her maid and footman, proceeds to (quietly) gather evidence. There are complications from a former mistress, a woman with marriage designs on her husband, and suspicions of another young guest who just might be up to no good. The plot is deliciously twisty, with a couple of sub-plots, and the Duchess is a great character. - I received an advance copy and freely leave this honest review.
November 27, 2025
‘Complicated? Yes. Improper? Certainly. But interesting? Oh, yes!’
Summoned back to Francis Court for her father’s birthday Alice knows she’s going to be face to face with her philandering husband finally and decides it’s time they face the rift in their marriage head on. Surprisingly things take a twist when Vance wants to work on their marriage. And then he turns up dead and it’s written off as an unfortunate, drunken accident but Alice knows better. So with the help of her childhood friend and some trusted servants she pours everything she has into getting justice for Vance. Fast paced and completely entertaining. Well done!
Summoned back to Francis Court for her father’s birthday Alice knows she’s going to be face to face with her philandering husband finally and decides it’s time they face the rift in their marriage head on. Surprisingly things take a twist when Vance wants to work on their marriage. And then he turns up dead and it’s written off as an unfortunate, drunken accident but Alice knows better. So with the help of her childhood friend and some trusted servants she pours everything she has into getting justice for Vance. Fast paced and completely entertaining. Well done!
November 27, 2025
When her estranged husband is found dead at the bottom of the stairs, Alice decides she must investigate, despite the consensus that it was an unfortunate accident. It's a lively and often lighthearted cosy mystery set in Victorian times. Alice, her maid, butler and childhood friend may be investigating a murder, but there is plenty of humour and wit to contrast with the crime. The Victorian setting and society's rules come across well in this tale, as does the ruling class's view of women, whatever their societal status. I enjoyed the characters, the dynamic between Alice and her sleuthing companions and the immersive mystery to solve.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
November 29, 2025
This is the second book in this series; I read and loved the first book, but this book can stand alone well. I love the setting of this cozy mystery series—England in the early 1890s. Alice is a duchess and she’s a fabulous main character, proper but daring, charming and smart. When her husband is discovered dead on the stairs, everyone assumes or wants to believe that it’s an accident. She sees signs of a possible murder, and she’s determined to investigate, along with occasional help from her trusted servants and a close friend from childhood. It’s a great read and I can definitely recommend this book and series; I was provided an ARC, which I appreciate, but these opinions are my own.
November 17, 2025
This Victorian-themed mystery really showcased how important society was during the Victorian age. Scandal is to be avoided at all cost, even when there is a murder. Of course, Alice would love nothing more than to comply but her husband was found deceased and it looked like it was not just a slip down the stairs. The lines of society are blurred as she enlists the help of family and staff to find clues. This was an enjoyable mystery and I look forward to more books in this series in the future. Now that Maud is a widow, I can only imagine what she will get up to!
November 22, 2025
I have just finished reading A Husband is Hushed Up by Helen Golden and it did not disappoint. I do love a Golden murder mystery and this time, I had an idea of who the murderer was, but had no idea how or why. Although I guessed correctly, I could not lay out the sequence of events leading up to the fatal occurrence. As always, Helen Golden has thought through, with incredible detail, the how, why, and when everything occurred giving readers a peek into her creative imagination. The ending was very unexpected, but wonderful.
November 26, 2025
This was an excellent cozy mystery.
I love how the protagonist Alice, Duchess of Stortford is developing her sleuthing abilities in a difficult environment for a woman, namely that of late 19th century England.
I enjoyed the touch of Sherlock Holmes arriving at the end to advise and congratulate Alice on her work.
I also liked how the 'situation' was resolved.
This was an absolute page turner and I really look forward to reading Alice's next adventure.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love how the protagonist Alice, Duchess of Stortford is developing her sleuthing abilities in a difficult environment for a woman, namely that of late 19th century England.
I enjoyed the touch of Sherlock Holmes arriving at the end to advise and congratulate Alice on her work.
I also liked how the 'situation' was resolved.
This was an absolute page turner and I really look forward to reading Alice's next adventure.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 30, 2025
This is the second book in the Victorian series
“A Duchess of Stortford Mystery” by Helen Golden.
It’s a fun, entertaining and very enjoyable read. I really like how Helen tells the story, with the timed chapter headings. It sets the scene so well. The story unfolds in such a way that we are kept guessing. All the characters we know and love, and some we dislike, are attending a sixtieth birthday party at France’s Court in Norfolk. There’s tensions, intrigue, liaisons, and gambling debts. Who had motive? Was it an accident? How will it be resolved? Interesting. Highly recommend.
“A Duchess of Stortford Mystery” by Helen Golden.
It’s a fun, entertaining and very enjoyable read. I really like how Helen tells the story, with the timed chapter headings. It sets the scene so well. The story unfolds in such a way that we are kept guessing. All the characters we know and love, and some we dislike, are attending a sixtieth birthday party at France’s Court in Norfolk. There’s tensions, intrigue, liaisons, and gambling debts. Who had motive? Was it an accident? How will it be resolved? Interesting. Highly recommend.
November 18, 2025
Must be an accident—murder does not happen in an upper-crust family! A Husband Is Hushed UP is suspenseful from the beginning to the end. The descriptions help the reader see the 19th century. Alice uses her servants to help her solve the murder. Not everyone approves of her methods. Her brother, in fact, insists it is an accident—doesn’t even want to investigate. George and Maud are topnotch as assistant investigators. I read an ARC of A Husband Is Hushed Up.
November 24, 2025
An entertaining mystery, A Husband Is Hushed Up is book 2 in the Duchess of Stortford Mystery series from Helen Golden.
I really enjoyed Alice’s character again- determined and tenacious, she’s fiercely loyal to those close to her and refuses to allow anyone to ignore her. Her dedication to solving her husband’s death is admirable and I could understand her frustrations at the patriarchal society she lives in.
The investigation is cleverly described as we follow Alice through the twists, clues and evidence despite little encouragement from her brothers.
A fun series and one which I look forward to reading more of.
November 24, 2025
The untimely death of her husband leads the Duchess, Alice, on a quest to discover who killed him rather than accept it as an accidental tumble. Great plot and clues along with excellent characters keep the reader totally engrossed in the read! I truly couldn't put it down as it was so riveting ~ new threads would pop up when and where least expected. A surprise ending solves and ties the mystery up in a marvellous package! Highly recommend all of this author's work!
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