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Flora Hyde-Clare Mysteries #2
A Highly Courageous Adventure
Flora Hyde-Clare’s visit to her beau’s ancestral home was always going to be a disaster. Her mother’s nervous habit of rambling nonsensically, her father’s thinly veiled contempt, her own desperate desire to make a good impression on Sebastian Holcroft’s parents, and his seemingly endless parade of siblings all guaranteed that their stay in the country would be intolerably awkward at best.
Yet for all her dire misgivings, Flora never imagined one of the household servants would wind up slain in his own bed.
But that is precisely what happens to the handsome young land steward. Chock-full of bright ideas for the estate’s future, Evan Keast nevertheless failed to conceive the folly of dallying with an impoverished widow whom he had no intention of marrying. Tired of his lies, his lover strangles him to death with her scarf — her very stylish scarf.
That is the story everyone believes — except Flora, who simply cannot fathom how a poor woman buried in the country would get her hands on a scarf in the first stare of fashion. The lovely accessory has to belong to a lady of means, and although she knows investigating Holcroft’s sisters for murder is a surefire way to end their relationship, she simply cannot smother her suspicions. She has to poke around until she finds out which one is the culprit.
Disastrous indeed!
Yet for all her dire misgivings, Flora never imagined one of the household servants would wind up slain in his own bed.
But that is precisely what happens to the handsome young land steward. Chock-full of bright ideas for the estate’s future, Evan Keast nevertheless failed to conceive the folly of dallying with an impoverished widow whom he had no intention of marrying. Tired of his lies, his lover strangles him to death with her scarf — her very stylish scarf.
That is the story everyone believes — except Flora, who simply cannot fathom how a poor woman buried in the country would get her hands on a scarf in the first stare of fashion. The lovely accessory has to belong to a lady of means, and although she knows investigating Holcroft’s sisters for murder is a surefire way to end their relationship, she simply cannot smother her suspicions. She has to poke around until she finds out which one is the culprit.
Disastrous indeed!
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
221 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Messina
53 books677 followersLynn Messina is author of more than a dozen novels, including the best-selling Fashionistas, which has been translated into sixteen languages, and a series of Regency romance novels. Her essays have appeared in Self, American Baby and the New York Times Modern Love column. She lives in New York City with her sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 7, 2025
Flora Hyde-Clare’s exploits are delightful!
Flora Hyde-Clare (cousin to the Bea, the Duchess of Kesgrave) and her family have travelled to Sebastian’s (Holcroft the Holy) home in Bedfordshire to meet his family. Flora thinks that this is to be sure of his family’s approval of her before proposing. To that end she’s learned all she can about the patriarch Holcroft’s latest passion—cabbages. As Flora so eloquently murmurs in a ramble to herself, hopefully Sebastian’s family will think she’s not just a piece a lovely piece of fluff after all, but a woman of substance. What she quickly learns is that the family are intolerant snobs who deliver cutting insults with glee.
It turns out Sebastian’s arranged it all so that Flora can determine as to whether or not she still wants to marry him after meeting his family. It also turns out that Holcroft senior’s new agriculture love is clover! Ah well!
Of course everyone’s beastly to Flora and condescending to her and her parents.
That is until the estate manager is strangled—with a silk shawl, and not just any orange silk shawl, but a Madame Valenaire creation, a very fashionable modiste in Bond Street.
Flora and Sebastian are on the trail of the murderer, hampered by Sebastian’s sister and father because they believe Flora is a spy!
Whimsical, frustrating and clever, this story grew on me with every turn of the page!
A Book Whisperer ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Flora Hyde-Clare (cousin to the Bea, the Duchess of Kesgrave) and her family have travelled to Sebastian’s (Holcroft the Holy) home in Bedfordshire to meet his family. Flora thinks that this is to be sure of his family’s approval of her before proposing. To that end she’s learned all she can about the patriarch Holcroft’s latest passion—cabbages. As Flora so eloquently murmurs in a ramble to herself, hopefully Sebastian’s family will think she’s not just a piece a lovely piece of fluff after all, but a woman of substance. What she quickly learns is that the family are intolerant snobs who deliver cutting insults with glee.
It turns out Sebastian’s arranged it all so that Flora can determine as to whether or not she still wants to marry him after meeting his family. It also turns out that Holcroft senior’s new agriculture love is clover! Ah well!
Of course everyone’s beastly to Flora and condescending to her and her parents.
That is until the estate manager is strangled—with a silk shawl, and not just any orange silk shawl, but a Madame Valenaire creation, a very fashionable modiste in Bond Street.
Flora and Sebastian are on the trail of the murderer, hampered by Sebastian’s sister and father because they believe Flora is a spy!
Whimsical, frustrating and clever, this story grew on me with every turn of the page!
A Book Whisperer ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
December 30, 2025
The second 'Flora' is very enjoyable.
Floria is not Bea, she is her own person and I've come to love her stories too and will keep looking forward to more.
She has a different dynamic and her relationship with her family, herself and other people is a different than Bea's and a welcome addition to this 'world'.
An ARC gently provided by author/publisher via Netgalley.
October 27, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
This was the first book that I have ever read by this author, and my issue is that now I have to find time to read all the other books! Really loved it. Will say, though, although it is a stand-alone book, and I had no issues at all jumping into the series, this book gives major spoilers for the previous book. As in told you who the murderer was. I really hate when authors do that, unless it's something you really can't help, like the person is a recurring character. At least there was a bit of plot development as far why, but just be warned.
Definitely would recommend, although I am not sure how I feel about Sebastian. Giving off some red flags. Mostly green, but some red. Although I guess for the period of time she is living in, that's still pretty good.
This was the first book that I have ever read by this author, and my issue is that now I have to find time to read all the other books! Really loved it. Will say, though, although it is a stand-alone book, and I had no issues at all jumping into the series, this book gives major spoilers for the previous book. As in told you who the murderer was. I really hate when authors do that, unless it's something you really can't help, like the person is a recurring character. At least there was a bit of plot development as far why, but just be warned.
Definitely would recommend, although I am not sure how I feel about Sebastian. Giving off some red flags. Mostly green, but some red. Although I guess for the period of time she is living in, that's still pretty good.
November 2, 2025
Second in a cosy mystery series (though could be read as a standalone) -- this is the first person account of Flora Hyde-Clare's investigation when the steward of her romantic-interest's-father is murdered at their estate.
I enjoyed book 1 no end, and was keen to nab a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher for book 2. And I was totally right, this was just as much fun as the first. We're treated to all the sensible and silly thoughts going through Flora's head, and I love the blend of investigation, daily life, manners and upbringing that may or may not be very realistic, but does acknowledge the class and gender limitations Flora faces in getting involved with anything more complicated than an embroidery sampler. We don't see as much of Sebastian in this book compared to the first, which is rather a shame since they're technically romancing each other. However, this did mean Flora got to puzzle through even more of the mystery than last time.
Highly recommended if you're looking for a light and somewhat unusual Regency read.
I enjoyed book 1 no end, and was keen to nab a complimentary advance reading copy provided by the publisher for book 2. And I was totally right, this was just as much fun as the first. We're treated to all the sensible and silly thoughts going through Flora's head, and I love the blend of investigation, daily life, manners and upbringing that may or may not be very realistic, but does acknowledge the class and gender limitations Flora faces in getting involved with anything more complicated than an embroidery sampler. We don't see as much of Sebastian in this book compared to the first, which is rather a shame since they're technically romancing each other. However, this did mean Flora got to puzzle through even more of the mystery than last time.
Highly recommended if you're looking for a light and somewhat unusual Regency read.
November 28, 2025
Thanks to Bookfunnel, Netgalley, and the author for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the second story that features Flora Hyde-Clare, the cousin of Beatrice, the Duchess of Kesgrave, and notorious investigator. The first Flora Hyde-Clare story, A Boldly Daring Scheme, absolutely needs to be read before this story, as this continues with the story of Flora's relationship with Sebastian Holcroft, which came into being from book 1. She and her family travel to the estate of the Holcrofts to meet with Sebastian's family. Flora is determined to sparkle and impress his parents and siblings, with her stunning knowledge of cabbage. But her plans are left shattered, in no small part thanks to her mother's nonsense, but also by the Holcrofts themselves. Not only has the pater moved on from cabbages, but the other Holcrofts are determined to despise Flora and her family for her part in bringing down their beloved family friend, Sebastian's godfather (as played out in A Boldly Daring Scheme).
Their visit to the Holcrofts is further complicated when their steward is discovered on morning, dead in his bed, apparently murdered. Flora finds her investigative curiosity greatly roused and clues point to members of the household, which pits Flora against her love, Sebastian, as she follows the clues.
Flora has previously come off as a superficial and somewhat thoughtless creature before, with the belief that she has a similar intelligence and acumen as her cousin, by osmosis/association. I was not especially taken with the first book, but have to admit that with book 2, she is growing on me as Flora appears to be maturing and growing a bit more self aware and aware of others and their perception of her and her family.
I enjoy the coziness and humour that this is written with and while I primarily read it as part of the Beatrice Hyde-Clare universe, Beatrice and her husband make no appearance and are nothing more than mentioned. But Flora does stand on her own, and there are growing nuances to her and her mother that I enjoyed quite a bit, including how Mrs Hyde-Clare, despite her history of nonsense and inadvertent insult, developed clear focus when push came to shove with her own family.
4 stars out of 5
This is the second story that features Flora Hyde-Clare, the cousin of Beatrice, the Duchess of Kesgrave, and notorious investigator. The first Flora Hyde-Clare story, A Boldly Daring Scheme, absolutely needs to be read before this story, as this continues with the story of Flora's relationship with Sebastian Holcroft, which came into being from book 1. She and her family travel to the estate of the Holcrofts to meet with Sebastian's family. Flora is determined to sparkle and impress his parents and siblings, with her stunning knowledge of cabbage. But her plans are left shattered, in no small part thanks to her mother's nonsense, but also by the Holcrofts themselves. Not only has the pater moved on from cabbages, but the other Holcrofts are determined to despise Flora and her family for her part in bringing down their beloved family friend, Sebastian's godfather (as played out in A Boldly Daring Scheme).
Their visit to the Holcrofts is further complicated when their steward is discovered on morning, dead in his bed, apparently murdered. Flora finds her investigative curiosity greatly roused and clues point to members of the household, which pits Flora against her love, Sebastian, as she follows the clues.
Flora has previously come off as a superficial and somewhat thoughtless creature before, with the belief that she has a similar intelligence and acumen as her cousin, by osmosis/association. I was not especially taken with the first book, but have to admit that with book 2, she is growing on me as Flora appears to be maturing and growing a bit more self aware and aware of others and their perception of her and her family.
I enjoy the coziness and humour that this is written with and while I primarily read it as part of the Beatrice Hyde-Clare universe, Beatrice and her husband make no appearance and are nothing more than mentioned. But Flora does stand on her own, and there are growing nuances to her and her mother that I enjoyed quite a bit, including how Mrs Hyde-Clare, despite her history of nonsense and inadvertent insult, developed clear focus when push came to shove with her own family.
4 stars out of 5
November 8, 2025
Every murder mystery set in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare universe is full of humor and absurdity. It gets to the point where I can’t decide what I enjoy more - the twisty investigative story or the hilarious secondary relationship storylines. In this second book from Flora’s point of view, I think the sleuthing and the romantic subplot are equally delightful.
Flora and her family are visiting her beau’s family home. Sebastian Holcroft’s family is horrid to Flora and her family and none of Flora’s attempts to ingratiate herself have worked. She’s convinced her future with Sebastian is doomed.
Especially alarming is Flora’s confident participation in the inspection of a freshly murdered steward. She’s confident that this is how she will shine. Now, Flora isn’t nearly as good at sleuthing as her cousin Bea, so she fumbles the investigation quite a bit, but the entire escape is hilariously entertaining.
Sebastian is on Flora’s side in all things, which is wonderful when it seems like his family is intent on making her uncomfortable at every opportunity.
This isn’t all silliness, though. The conflict between traditional farming and modern advances is part of the story, but never in an info-dumpy way.
As always, Lynn Messina’s charm and whit is on full display in this fabulous addition to the Beatrice Hyde-Clare universe.
Flora and her family are visiting her beau’s family home. Sebastian Holcroft’s family is horrid to Flora and her family and none of Flora’s attempts to ingratiate herself have worked. She’s convinced her future with Sebastian is doomed.
Especially alarming is Flora’s confident participation in the inspection of a freshly murdered steward. She’s confident that this is how she will shine. Now, Flora isn’t nearly as good at sleuthing as her cousin Bea, so she fumbles the investigation quite a bit, but the entire escape is hilariously entertaining.
Sebastian is on Flora’s side in all things, which is wonderful when it seems like his family is intent on making her uncomfortable at every opportunity.
This isn’t all silliness, though. The conflict between traditional farming and modern advances is part of the story, but never in an info-dumpy way.
As always, Lynn Messina’s charm and whit is on full display in this fabulous addition to the Beatrice Hyde-Clare universe.
October 21, 2025
Thank you to Mistress Messina, NetGalley and Potatoworks Press for the free advanced reading copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
3.5 stars
Flora Hyde-Clare is eager for a proposal from her love, Sebastian Holcroft, but she knows his code of honor is such that he won't propose without approval from his father. Flora and her family are braving the lion's den so to speak and visiting the Holcroft family estate, Red Oaks, in Lower Bigglesmead, Bedfordshire. To win over her future father-in-law, Flora has memorized every known fact about cabbage, Mr. Holcroft's favorite thing to grow. When they arrive at the estate, the Hyde-Clare women are stuck drinking tea and doing embroidery while the men examine the estate. Seb isn't on hand to hear the snide comments from his mother and sisters and Flora fears her beloved will never marry her. She has every hope of winning over her father-in-law though until she discovers his new favorite crop is NOT cabbage! When the Holcrofts discover their steward murdered in his bed, Flora realizes this is her chance to prove herself. Investigating deaths is her specialty! All right, so she's only investigated ONE so far but if Bea can do it, so can she. With Seb to help, surely they can solve this one. Unfortunately the constable (and all the other men) dismiss Flora but she's determined to prove them wrong. While the men are off chasing a female suspect, Flora's knowledge of London fashion points her in an entirely different direction and towards the real killer. Can she solve the murder and prove her worth? Will Seb still want to marry her in spite of his family's disapproval?
This story started off pretty simple but ended up with so many red herrings and twists I didn't see coming and some I did. I thought I knew whodunit right away basically by process of elimination. I wasn't 100% right but I did figure it out at the end as Flora was realizing what must have happened. I stayed up late and woke up super early to finish it and I enjoyed it but not as much as Bea and Verity. The story contains major spoilers for A Boldly Daring Scheme: A Regency Cozy. You really need to read the whole series in order including Bea and Verity's stories because they intersect.
Flora is younger than Bea and Verity and she has a reputation for being featherwitted. She's young and in her early teen years she was frivolous and carefree. Flora has been growing up slowly since the truth about Bea's unusual hobby was revealed and Flora took the time to examine her treatment of her mousy spinster cousin. Flora doesn't like who she was back then and is more thoughtful now. She's still impulsive at times - a Hyde-Clare trait and not as intellectual as Bea (who has had more time to read and think) but she's TRYING and that's what makes her an appealing character. She WANTS to grow up and marry her true love but she's willing to sacrifice him to see justice done. Flora isn't just trying to compete with Bea or make amends to Bea or even be Bea. Flora admires her cousin's intelligence and fortitude and since Flora accidentally stumbled across a murder and saved the day, she's confident she can do it again. Unlike Bea and Verity, she wants Seb as her partner. She wants to solve the mystery together as a team.
Hearing Flora's thoughts is interesting, especially when it comes to her parents. She knows their faults but loves them anyway. She can mimic her mother's useless prattle at will which comes in handy when she needs it. Like Bea, Flora longs for the approval of her parents. She knows they love her but they dismiss her as a silly, incompetent female and favor Russell because he's the boy. He's so immature still but Flora has grown and resists the urge to fight with her brother. Aunt Vera shows her strength, which we have previously discovered in Bea's adventures. It was interesting to see a different side of her. When Flora stands up for herself and her mother accidentally learns Flora was imprisoned nearly killed, Vera's reaction is surprising. Flora's father also shows a different side of himself than his usual ignorance is bliss attitude. Of course their family name is maligned and their only daughter maligned and mistreated but I enjoyed seeing them wake up and stand up for a change.
Seb is not a bad hero but he's not as swoony as I would like. He's not present when his horrid mother and sisters quietly mean girl Flora and Flora believes Seb is unaware of what's happening. She also thinks his code of honor is so strong, he'll choose family over love. Fortunately, when they finally get a chance to discuss the situation, he sets the record straight. His family, on the other hand... they're ALL awful! Mrs. Dowell, the oldest of Sebastian's three sisters is married and should know how to be gracious and kind even if she doesn't approve of her brother's choice of bride. It's not her call now is it? She's the ring leader and an absolute mean girl. It's all very quiet and snide. Mrs. Holcroft claims everything Flora and her family say and do is "quaint" with a tone that Flora knows implies "quaint" is an insult. That's so catty and I truly hate that. Mrs. Holcroft I can see resenting Flora. Seb is the heir and the golden son. Of course she wouldn't see Flora as good enough to marry Seb or to take her place as mistress of Red Oaks. Yet, surely she must have been young and inexperienced once too. She's kind to everyone else! Sarah is unmarried at 23 so she better be nice to Flora if she wants a home for the rest of her life or hurry up and accept the next gentleman who offers. She has the most ridiculous idea about Flora and while it's based on a misunderstanding and lack of facts, she could still be nicer. Eleanor, the youngest, seems like she wants to be nice and could be an ally for Flora but she doesn't dare go against her family.
The only Holcroft I really like is Chester. They consider him a scapegrace but he's the only one with any thoughts in his head and the only one who thinks about things that matter. He's an animal rights activist, what we would call a vegetarian and encourages Russell. Chester is the only one who isn't horrid to the Hyde-Clares. Mr. Holcroft is positively repugnant. He's a spoiled toddler who has to have his own way in everything. Mrs. Holcroft keeps the peace in the house by letting him believe the stories he tells himself. That sounds familiar and it's not charming now and it is not charming in fiction in 1815 either. He's a bully and dismisses women and disrespects his family with his stubbornness. He can't be made to see reason and his personal truths have spread to the rest of the family, minus Seb because he knows the real story and Chester who doesn't give a flip. I'd hate for Seb's father to be a murderer because that would impact the whole family but I kind of hope he has apoplexy and dies soon.
There are a couple of unmarried ladies in the neighborhood. Miss Burgess, the spinster sister of the vicar, is kind to Flora but she seems to enjoy gossip a little too much. She reveals a lot about the other young ladies and Flora is intelligent enough to pick up on hints and put together a fuller picture. Miss Burgess has her good qualities too and because she's older and a spinster, I want to like her. I really, really hope she's not the murderer! Just because she's unmarried and may have had a crush on the handsome steward and even if he rejected her, that doesn't mean she would go postal and strangle him. Ah but she can't be the murderer because the murder weapon is not something she would own - or is it? Her brother is busy administering to the parish laborers who are unhappy with the changes being made on the estate. Their livelihoods are threatened and their traditions are disappearing in the name of progress. The rich are getting richer - or at least Mr. Holcroft is - and the poor are getting poorer. Why yes a lot of this does sound familiar!
Miss Braithwaite and Miss Nutting are two silly girls barely out of the school room. Yes even compared to Flora they're very silly. They're very beautiful, rich and young which makes them look down on Flora who is not as young and not as rich. They really look down on "old" Miss Burgess. Both girls have been rivals since forever and they both set their sights on the handsome land steward, Mr. Keast.
Keast was said to have thought solely about work. His job was to find ways to improve farming and make money for Mr. Holcroft. This sounds logical and his interest in modern farming methods and modern farm technology (still hand tools at this point- no steam yet) sure sounds admiral to me. YET- to the farmers who have worked the land for centuries, to the neighboring gentry who share rights to the land, Mr. Keast is a villain stealing their livelihoods and preventing the gentry from making more money. I see both sides of the issue and I'm not sure there's a solution. I know many farmers ended up leaving and going to work in the new factories but it's sad they had to give up their family's land and traditional way of life. The farmers sound angry- angry enough perhaps to kill Mr. Keast? But no - the murder weapon! Flora has to figure out how a humble farmer could have obtained the expensive item first before she can figure out whodunit.
The chain of ownership leads her right back to the two silly misses who crushed hard on the handsome steward but were rebuffed. Could one of them be the killer? They're too silly and superficial for that. This murder was pre-meditated and I don't think either girl is intelligent enough to plan a murder. Miss B is absolutely bratty and her interest in Mr. Keast was to annoy her rival and thumb her nose at her mother. Miss Nutting is a very silly little drama queen. I don't think her theatrics are sincere but neither do I think she's a murderer. Their fathers on the other hand... Mr. B is losing money thanks to Mr. Keasts's improvements. They argued and Mr. Nutting even issued death threats. A ha! But... the murder weapon? Mrs. Nutting is a tough lady. I wouldn't be surprised if she were the murderer. She doesn't treat her servants well and probably isn't even paying them right now. Her husband is a disgusting excuse for a man and has multiple motives for wanting Keast dead. Did he kill the man to avenge his daughter's reputation? Because Keast was instrumental in his ruin or for some other reason?
Mr. Jenner, the local parish constable but has little interest in investigating the murder of Keast. He believes it's an impossible task and takes the crime scene at face value. He also dismisses Flora's feminine understanding of the clues. Left up to Mr. Jenner, this crime would never be solved and justice never done. Keast was a good man, devoted to Red Oaks and deserves justice.
This was an enjoyable story but a little more convoluted than necessary. I don't like Flora as much as Bea and Verity though and would only read another book from her point-of-view if it intersected or followed up on Bea's adventures.
3.5 stars
Flora Hyde-Clare is eager for a proposal from her love, Sebastian Holcroft, but she knows his code of honor is such that he won't propose without approval from his father. Flora and her family are braving the lion's den so to speak and visiting the Holcroft family estate, Red Oaks, in Lower Bigglesmead, Bedfordshire. To win over her future father-in-law, Flora has memorized every known fact about cabbage, Mr. Holcroft's favorite thing to grow. When they arrive at the estate, the Hyde-Clare women are stuck drinking tea and doing embroidery while the men examine the estate. Seb isn't on hand to hear the snide comments from his mother and sisters and Flora fears her beloved will never marry her. She has every hope of winning over her father-in-law though until she discovers his new favorite crop is NOT cabbage! When the Holcrofts discover their steward murdered in his bed, Flora realizes this is her chance to prove herself. Investigating deaths is her specialty! All right, so she's only investigated ONE so far but if Bea can do it, so can she. With Seb to help, surely they can solve this one. Unfortunately the constable (and all the other men) dismiss Flora but she's determined to prove them wrong. While the men are off chasing a female suspect, Flora's knowledge of London fashion points her in an entirely different direction and towards the real killer. Can she solve the murder and prove her worth? Will Seb still want to marry her in spite of his family's disapproval?
This story started off pretty simple but ended up with so many red herrings and twists I didn't see coming and some I did. I thought I knew whodunit right away basically by process of elimination. I wasn't 100% right but I did figure it out at the end as Flora was realizing what must have happened. I stayed up late and woke up super early to finish it and I enjoyed it but not as much as Bea and Verity. The story contains major spoilers for A Boldly Daring Scheme: A Regency Cozy. You really need to read the whole series in order including Bea and Verity's stories because they intersect.
Flora is younger than Bea and Verity and she has a reputation for being featherwitted. She's young and in her early teen years she was frivolous and carefree. Flora has been growing up slowly since the truth about Bea's unusual hobby was revealed and Flora took the time to examine her treatment of her mousy spinster cousin. Flora doesn't like who she was back then and is more thoughtful now. She's still impulsive at times - a Hyde-Clare trait and not as intellectual as Bea (who has had more time to read and think) but she's TRYING and that's what makes her an appealing character. She WANTS to grow up and marry her true love but she's willing to sacrifice him to see justice done. Flora isn't just trying to compete with Bea or make amends to Bea or even be Bea. Flora admires her cousin's intelligence and fortitude and since Flora accidentally stumbled across a murder and saved the day, she's confident she can do it again. Unlike Bea and Verity, she wants Seb as her partner. She wants to solve the mystery together as a team.
Hearing Flora's thoughts is interesting, especially when it comes to her parents. She knows their faults but loves them anyway. She can mimic her mother's useless prattle at will which comes in handy when she needs it. Like Bea, Flora longs for the approval of her parents. She knows they love her but they dismiss her as a silly, incompetent female and favor Russell because he's the boy. He's so immature still but Flora has grown and resists the urge to fight with her brother. Aunt Vera shows her strength, which we have previously discovered in Bea's adventures. It was interesting to see a different side of her. When Flora stands up for herself and her mother accidentally learns Flora was imprisoned nearly killed, Vera's reaction is surprising. Flora's father also shows a different side of himself than his usual ignorance is bliss attitude. Of course their family name is maligned and their only daughter maligned and mistreated but I enjoyed seeing them wake up and stand up for a change.
Seb is not a bad hero but he's not as swoony as I would like. He's not present when his horrid mother and sisters quietly mean girl Flora and Flora believes Seb is unaware of what's happening. She also thinks his code of honor is so strong, he'll choose family over love. Fortunately, when they finally get a chance to discuss the situation, he sets the record straight. His family, on the other hand... they're ALL awful! Mrs. Dowell, the oldest of Sebastian's three sisters is married and should know how to be gracious and kind even if she doesn't approve of her brother's choice of bride. It's not her call now is it? She's the ring leader and an absolute mean girl. It's all very quiet and snide. Mrs. Holcroft claims everything Flora and her family say and do is "quaint" with a tone that Flora knows implies "quaint" is an insult. That's so catty and I truly hate that. Mrs. Holcroft I can see resenting Flora. Seb is the heir and the golden son. Of course she wouldn't see Flora as good enough to marry Seb or to take her place as mistress of Red Oaks. Yet, surely she must have been young and inexperienced once too. She's kind to everyone else! Sarah is unmarried at 23 so she better be nice to Flora if she wants a home for the rest of her life or hurry up and accept the next gentleman who offers. She has the most ridiculous idea about Flora and while it's based on a misunderstanding and lack of facts, she could still be nicer. Eleanor, the youngest, seems like she wants to be nice and could be an ally for Flora but she doesn't dare go against her family.
The only Holcroft I really like is Chester. They consider him a scapegrace but he's the only one with any thoughts in his head and the only one who thinks about things that matter. He's an animal rights activist, what we would call a vegetarian and encourages Russell. Chester is the only one who isn't horrid to the Hyde-Clares. Mr. Holcroft is positively repugnant. He's a spoiled toddler who has to have his own way in everything. Mrs. Holcroft keeps the peace in the house by letting him believe the stories he tells himself. That sounds familiar and it's not charming now and it is not charming in fiction in 1815 either. He's a bully and dismisses women and disrespects his family with his stubbornness. He can't be made to see reason and his personal truths have spread to the rest of the family, minus Seb because he knows the real story and Chester who doesn't give a flip. I'd hate for Seb's father to be a murderer because that would impact the whole family but I kind of hope he has apoplexy and dies soon.
There are a couple of unmarried ladies in the neighborhood. Miss Burgess, the spinster sister of the vicar, is kind to Flora but she seems to enjoy gossip a little too much. She reveals a lot about the other young ladies and Flora is intelligent enough to pick up on hints and put together a fuller picture. Miss Burgess has her good qualities too and because she's older and a spinster, I want to like her. I really, really hope she's not the murderer! Just because she's unmarried and may have had a crush on the handsome steward and even if he rejected her, that doesn't mean she would go postal and strangle him. Ah but she can't be the murderer because the murder weapon is not something she would own - or is it? Her brother is busy administering to the parish laborers who are unhappy with the changes being made on the estate. Their livelihoods are threatened and their traditions are disappearing in the name of progress. The rich are getting richer - or at least Mr. Holcroft is - and the poor are getting poorer. Why yes a lot of this does sound familiar!
Miss Braithwaite and Miss Nutting are two silly girls barely out of the school room. Yes even compared to Flora they're very silly. They're very beautiful, rich and young which makes them look down on Flora who is not as young and not as rich. They really look down on "old" Miss Burgess. Both girls have been rivals since forever and they both set their sights on the handsome land steward, Mr. Keast.
Keast was said to have thought solely about work. His job was to find ways to improve farming and make money for Mr. Holcroft. This sounds logical and his interest in modern farming methods and modern farm technology (still hand tools at this point- no steam yet) sure sounds admiral to me. YET- to the farmers who have worked the land for centuries, to the neighboring gentry who share rights to the land, Mr. Keast is a villain stealing their livelihoods and preventing the gentry from making more money. I see both sides of the issue and I'm not sure there's a solution. I know many farmers ended up leaving and going to work in the new factories but it's sad they had to give up their family's land and traditional way of life. The farmers sound angry- angry enough perhaps to kill Mr. Keast? But no - the murder weapon! Flora has to figure out how a humble farmer could have obtained the expensive item first before she can figure out whodunit.
The chain of ownership leads her right back to the two silly misses who crushed hard on the handsome steward but were rebuffed. Could one of them be the killer? They're too silly and superficial for that. This murder was pre-meditated and I don't think either girl is intelligent enough to plan a murder. Miss B is absolutely bratty and her interest in Mr. Keast was to annoy her rival and thumb her nose at her mother. Miss Nutting is a very silly little drama queen. I don't think her theatrics are sincere but neither do I think she's a murderer. Their fathers on the other hand... Mr. B is losing money thanks to Mr. Keasts's improvements. They argued and Mr. Nutting even issued death threats. A ha! But... the murder weapon? Mrs. Nutting is a tough lady. I wouldn't be surprised if she were the murderer. She doesn't treat her servants well and probably isn't even paying them right now. Her husband is a disgusting excuse for a man and has multiple motives for wanting Keast dead. Did he kill the man to avenge his daughter's reputation? Because Keast was instrumental in his ruin or for some other reason?
Mr. Jenner, the local parish constable but has little interest in investigating the murder of Keast. He believes it's an impossible task and takes the crime scene at face value. He also dismisses Flora's feminine understanding of the clues. Left up to Mr. Jenner, this crime would never be solved and justice never done. Keast was a good man, devoted to Red Oaks and deserves justice.
This was an enjoyable story but a little more convoluted than necessary. I don't like Flora as much as Bea and Verity though and would only read another book from her point-of-view if it intersected or followed up on Bea's adventures.
October 21, 2025
A Highly Courageous Adventure by Lynn Messina is the second Flora Hyde-Clare mystery. Set in the Regency period, this new series is a spinoff from the author's Beatrice Hyde-Clare series. Flora is a cousin of Beatrice, who has now become the Duchess of Kesgrave. Flora's development as an investigator of murders seems to parallel that of Beatrice.
In this book, Flora and family are visiting the family of Flora's beau, Sebastian Holcroft. She starts out trying to impress Sebastian's father, but is failing, Sebastian's mother and sisters show that think poorly of her and her family But when the Holcroft family's land steward is murder Flore begins to investigate. Despite several false starts, and some ridicule from the Holcrofts and her own family Flora gradually earns respect and support. Along the way Flora's parents, especially her mother Vera, begin to show a different side and earn some respect that is not apparent in other books in either series.
Although this is part of a series and related to another series it can be read as a standalone. There are places in the book where it is important to keep track of the quotation marks as actual dialog is embedded in paragraphs with Flora's thoughts and comments to herself. Those who listen to the book using the Kindle Assisted Reader may find that confusing at times, and tempted me to downgrade to three stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy. This is my voluntary, honest review.
4 stars
In this book, Flora and family are visiting the family of Flora's beau, Sebastian Holcroft. She starts out trying to impress Sebastian's father, but is failing, Sebastian's mother and sisters show that think poorly of her and her family But when the Holcroft family's land steward is murder Flore begins to investigate. Despite several false starts, and some ridicule from the Holcrofts and her own family Flora gradually earns respect and support. Along the way Flora's parents, especially her mother Vera, begin to show a different side and earn some respect that is not apparent in other books in either series.
Although this is part of a series and related to another series it can be read as a standalone. There are places in the book where it is important to keep track of the quotation marks as actual dialog is embedded in paragraphs with Flora's thoughts and comments to herself. Those who listen to the book using the Kindle Assisted Reader may find that confusing at times, and tempted me to downgrade to three stars.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy. This is my voluntary, honest review.
4 stars
November 16, 2025
So very satisfying
The Beatrice/Flora/Verity mysteries are my absolute favorite series. I look forward to each book with delight and this one rewarded that wait perfectly. I love that Flora was not willing to accept what she saw as condescension from Sebastian. I adore her rigorous adherence to The Code, which is largely made up in her own head. The elder Hyde-Clares made me very proud in this story as well, and I enjoyed that Flora stood up to the sisters and won them around. Even the infuriating behavior of Mr. Holcroft and Mr. Nutting was enjoyable in an ‘I wish I could kick them in the pants’ kind of way. Flora’s come such a long way in her maturity and self-awareness. Bea would be so proud.
The Beatrice/Flora/Verity mysteries are my absolute favorite series. I look forward to each book with delight and this one rewarded that wait perfectly. I love that Flora was not willing to accept what she saw as condescension from Sebastian. I adore her rigorous adherence to The Code, which is largely made up in her own head. The elder Hyde-Clares made me very proud in this story as well, and I enjoyed that Flora stood up to the sisters and won them around. Even the infuriating behavior of Mr. Holcroft and Mr. Nutting was enjoyable in an ‘I wish I could kick them in the pants’ kind of way. Flora’s come such a long way in her maturity and self-awareness. Bea would be so proud.
November 17, 2025
I somehow missed the first book of this series, but of course, I know Flora from the Beatrice series. Flora is following in the footsteps of her cousin as she is also investigating murders. When she and her parents are off to visit the estate of her possible love interest, Sebastian , the steward is murdered. In the previous book, they solved a murder, and now they set out to solve another. One of the clues is a designer shawl, and Flora follows the clue, thinking, "What would Bea do?"
This is a fun book, just as the others in the Beatrice and Lark series. They are all interconnected , though this one could be a standalone as enough is explained from previous books.
Thanks to NetGalley, the Book Whisperer, the publisher, and the author for the EARC. This is my honest review . I highly recommend all 3 series.
This is a fun book, just as the others in the Beatrice and Lark series. They are all interconnected , though this one could be a standalone as enough is explained from previous books.
Thanks to NetGalley, the Book Whisperer, the publisher, and the author for the EARC. This is my honest review . I highly recommend all 3 series.
November 13, 2025
Rating: 4* of five
The Publisher Says: Flora Hyde-Clare’s visit to her beau’s ancestral home was always going to be a disaster. Her mother’s nervous habit of rambling nonsensically, her father’s thinly veiled contempt, her own desperate desire to make a good impression on Sebastian Holcroft’s parents, and his seemingly endless parade of siblings all guaranteed that their stay in the country would be intolerably awkward at best.
Yet for all her dire misgivings, Flora never imagined one of the household servants would wind up slain in his own bed.
But that is precisely what happens to the handsome young land steward. Chock-full of bright ideas for the estate’s future, Adrian Singleton nevertheless failed to conceive the folly of dallying with an impoverished widow whom he had no intention of marrying. Tired of his lies, his lover strangles him to death with her scarf—her very stylish scarf.
That is the story everyone believes—except Flora, who simply cannot fathom how a poor woman buried in the country would get her hands on a scarf in the first stare of fashion. The lovely accessory has to belong to a lady of means, and although she knows investigating Holcroft’s sisters for murder is a surefire way to end their relationship, she simply cannot smother her suspicions. She has to poke around until she finds out which one is the culprit.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Flora (cousin of the Duchess of Kesgrave from Author Messina's related series) returns to delight us with her shrewd, witty observations...this time she's really in the muck with Sebastian, her beloved, throwing her to the piggy, pursey-mouthed swine he's related to. It's a wise move on his part, since she can never claim that she was blindsided by how perfectly ghastly and terrible his (large!) family is...snobbish, unkind, small-minded, ungrateful people, so one wonders where the heck he came from. He doesn't tell her this, leaving her to think he wants his family to approve of her...and that leads her to make more efforts to be kind than I thought she should have made! Sebastian's truly terrible father, and one of his sisters, think quite poorly of Flora despite her being cousin of a duchess...because they imagine her to be a spy. (To be fair, there's a reason for that...her behavior's odd.)
What makes the read fun is the way Author Messina lets us in on Flora's thoughts, those sensible and focused as well as those anxious and silly. I think her fondness for Sebastian is drawn with enough detail to convince all but the most cynical that she's genuinely his friend, and he hers. It's a lovely read, and the murder...despite the fact I do not enjoy murder victims being characters who really just need killin'...is handled with the aplomb of an experienced craft worker in the field.
Good fun to be had if you need some cozy escape time from modern reality.
The Publisher Says: Flora Hyde-Clare’s visit to her beau’s ancestral home was always going to be a disaster. Her mother’s nervous habit of rambling nonsensically, her father’s thinly veiled contempt, her own desperate desire to make a good impression on Sebastian Holcroft’s parents, and his seemingly endless parade of siblings all guaranteed that their stay in the country would be intolerably awkward at best.
Yet for all her dire misgivings, Flora never imagined one of the household servants would wind up slain in his own bed.
But that is precisely what happens to the handsome young land steward. Chock-full of bright ideas for the estate’s future, Adrian Singleton nevertheless failed to conceive the folly of dallying with an impoverished widow whom he had no intention of marrying. Tired of his lies, his lover strangles him to death with her scarf—her very stylish scarf.
That is the story everyone believes—except Flora, who simply cannot fathom how a poor woman buried in the country would get her hands on a scarf in the first stare of fashion. The lovely accessory has to belong to a lady of means, and although she knows investigating Holcroft’s sisters for murder is a surefire way to end their relationship, she simply cannot smother her suspicions. She has to poke around until she finds out which one is the culprit.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA NETGALLEY. THANK YOU.
My Review: Flora (cousin of the Duchess of Kesgrave from Author Messina's related series) returns to delight us with her shrewd, witty observations...this time she's really in the muck with Sebastian, her beloved, throwing her to the piggy, pursey-mouthed swine he's related to. It's a wise move on his part, since she can never claim that she was blindsided by how perfectly ghastly and terrible his (large!) family is...snobbish, unkind, small-minded, ungrateful people, so one wonders where the heck he came from. He doesn't tell her this, leaving her to think he wants his family to approve of her...and that leads her to make more efforts to be kind than I thought she should have made! Sebastian's truly terrible father, and one of his sisters, think quite poorly of Flora despite her being cousin of a duchess...because they imagine her to be a spy. (To be fair, there's a reason for that...her behavior's odd.)
What makes the read fun is the way Author Messina lets us in on Flora's thoughts, those sensible and focused as well as those anxious and silly. I think her fondness for Sebastian is drawn with enough detail to convince all but the most cynical that she's genuinely his friend, and he hers. It's a lovely read, and the murder...despite the fact I do not enjoy murder victims being characters who really just need killin'...is handled with the aplomb of an experienced craft worker in the field.
Good fun to be had if you need some cozy escape time from modern reality.
October 18, 2025
(")"you must stop doing this!" she wrote desperately. It was not the response any author anticipated. [....] "You must stop making me like your books more. The feeling is already so overwhelming that I can scarcely wait for the next installment to be published and to disappear into my reading nook."(") (in case you haven't guessed, it's from this wonderful book, pp.17-18)
Jokes aside - Please don't.
My first Flora-book, yay! If you, dear review reader, are now awaiting a gushing, giddy, bubbling fan-girl review - please hold. For I will be concise this time. It won’t be a Haiku but it won’t be Mann either.
Flora not surprisingly turns out to be exactly a character or the glimpses of character that we get throughout Bea’s books. What is surprising, are her efficient intelligence (show you have some only if and when the situation is either too tumultuous or too dear that the fact can be noticed) and her self-imposed commitment to the non-existent investigator code.
One of the other gems of the story is Aunt Vera (or here: Mama). It would be so exhilarating to be able to trace what is going on in her mind. Before and after a (non-related) death, preferably.
Although, finding a murderer is a serious business, Flora, with her efficient intelligence and investigative commitment, makes it seem rather as a necessary errand before going to the haberdasher for that ribbon that matches the shade of the eyes of her beloved exactly. And Seb loves her for it (sight) and you will too, dear reader, you will too.
Apropos Seb. He fits rather well with the array of the new-ish siblings-in-law on the Hyde-Clare orbit. Now only Russell is missing a smart partner (in crime?) that will manipulate him into his own happiness. Together they will be a big and happy family that could change the Regency world if it only sets its collective mind to it.
No more spoilers from me, as this exquisite Regency rompy-but-insightful meeting-the-in-laws-drama awaits you now (lucky you!). So, get your fanciest shawl with that amber and amaranthine pattern that I know you have, a hot beverage and enjoy the calm joy of settling in in this funnily comfortable mystery.
Thanks Book Whisperer for the arc. Much appreciated. Opinions are my own.
Jokes aside - Please don't.
My first Flora-book, yay! If you, dear review reader, are now awaiting a gushing, giddy, bubbling fan-girl review - please hold. For I will be concise this time. It won’t be a Haiku but it won’t be Mann either.
Flora not surprisingly turns out to be exactly a character or the glimpses of character that we get throughout Bea’s books. What is surprising, are her efficient intelligence (show you have some only if and when the situation is either too tumultuous or too dear that the fact can be noticed) and her self-imposed commitment to the non-existent investigator code.
One of the other gems of the story is Aunt Vera (or here: Mama). It would be so exhilarating to be able to trace what is going on in her mind. Before and after a (non-related) death, preferably.
Although, finding a murderer is a serious business, Flora, with her efficient intelligence and investigative commitment, makes it seem rather as a necessary errand before going to the haberdasher for that ribbon that matches the shade of the eyes of her beloved exactly. And Seb loves her for it (sight) and you will too, dear reader, you will too.
Apropos Seb. He fits rather well with the array of the new-ish siblings-in-law on the Hyde-Clare orbit. Now only Russell is missing a smart partner (in crime?) that will manipulate him into his own happiness. Together they will be a big and happy family that could change the Regency world if it only sets its collective mind to it.
No more spoilers from me, as this exquisite Regency rompy-but-insightful meeting-the-in-laws-drama awaits you now (lucky you!). So, get your fanciest shawl with that amber and amaranthine pattern that I know you have, a hot beverage and enjoy the calm joy of settling in in this funnily comfortable mystery.
Thanks Book Whisperer for the arc. Much appreciated. Opinions are my own.
November 6, 2025
This is the second book in the Flora Hyde-Clare Mystery Series, although I had not read the first one or any of the books in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mystery Series. This really didn’t matter from my perspective as this reads very well as a standalone although it does reference the first book and could provide a bit of a spoiler if read out of order. However I still enjoyed this book, and would be happy to read the first book at a later stage.
Flora is visiting her Beau’s ancestral home to meet Sebastian’s family, and this doesn’t seem to be going well for either her or her mother! Whilst there a household servant is found murdered one morning, with the only clues being a pile of letters and a silk scarf. Flora sets about investigating the murder much to the chagrin of Sebastian’s family, especially as it means investigating them amongst others! Will this put a strain on their relationship?
Overall I found this to be a fun and engaging read, very much written in the style of the time it is set, and good manners and the need for etiquette come across strongly. I almost gave up on the book as it seemed to be taking a long while to get going but I am very glad I persevered with it as once it did get going from around the third chapter I found it incredibly enjoyable and did not want to put it down. I particularly loved the last few chapters which had everyone together revealing the potential murderers and that lead to a group hunt across the village, and a few surprises along the way.
I think people that enjoyed the style of books like Pride and Prejudice would really enjoy this book,and it’s very feel, based on manners and etiquette as was explained earlier. Alongside the murder mystery, and Flora’s investigation, you had the romance between her and Sebastian running through the book. In addition you had some ‘interesting’ interactions between Flora and Sebastian’s sisters who seemed set against her. There are some strong and really interesting characters in this book - watch out for Flora’s mother!
This is definitely a book I would recommend but do give it a chance to get going.
Flora is visiting her Beau’s ancestral home to meet Sebastian’s family, and this doesn’t seem to be going well for either her or her mother! Whilst there a household servant is found murdered one morning, with the only clues being a pile of letters and a silk scarf. Flora sets about investigating the murder much to the chagrin of Sebastian’s family, especially as it means investigating them amongst others! Will this put a strain on their relationship?
Overall I found this to be a fun and engaging read, very much written in the style of the time it is set, and good manners and the need for etiquette come across strongly. I almost gave up on the book as it seemed to be taking a long while to get going but I am very glad I persevered with it as once it did get going from around the third chapter I found it incredibly enjoyable and did not want to put it down. I particularly loved the last few chapters which had everyone together revealing the potential murderers and that lead to a group hunt across the village, and a few surprises along the way.
I think people that enjoyed the style of books like Pride and Prejudice would really enjoy this book,and it’s very feel, based on manners and etiquette as was explained earlier. Alongside the murder mystery, and Flora’s investigation, you had the romance between her and Sebastian running through the book. In addition you had some ‘interesting’ interactions between Flora and Sebastian’s sisters who seemed set against her. There are some strong and really interesting characters in this book - watch out for Flora’s mother!
This is definitely a book I would recommend but do give it a chance to get going.
November 20, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this book.
Flora Hyde-Clarke has discovered that she shares her cousin Bea's talent for solving murders. Her first involved Sebastian Holcroft, with whom she no only solved a murder, almost getting murdered in the process, but fell in love with, too. Now she and her family have been invited for a long weekend at the Holcroft's country estate and the visit is not going well. Sebastian's sisters and mother seem intent on being sarcastically cutting to Flora, just when she REALLY wants to make a good impression. Sebastian's father is unaware of anything going on, as his main, and really ONLY, concern is the new innovations in farming he is pursuing with the help of his steward, Evan Keast. Mr Keast, it seems, is not a popular person in the area, mostly because his innovations have meant the loss of work and livelihood for many farm workers.
But when Keast is found murdered in his bed, suspicion lands on a widow from a neighboring town with whom he has been having a torrid relationship, which has culminated in an unexpected pregnancy, which he refuses to neither acknowledge not make right through marriage. At least, that's what it looks like when a bundle of love letters is found among the victim's effects. However, he was strangled with a silk wrap which would have been out of financial reach for any but the most wealthy members of the community.
Flora and Sebastian begin the investigation, but are stumped at every turn by the close-knit community. It seems there are many secrets around here that no one is anxious to have exposed. But many are exposed on the way to the final denouement.
And, FINALLY, Sebastian declares his love for Flora, so we may hope to see the two of them in many more adventures together.
Flora Hyde-Clarke has discovered that she shares her cousin Bea's talent for solving murders. Her first involved Sebastian Holcroft, with whom she no only solved a murder, almost getting murdered in the process, but fell in love with, too. Now she and her family have been invited for a long weekend at the Holcroft's country estate and the visit is not going well. Sebastian's sisters and mother seem intent on being sarcastically cutting to Flora, just when she REALLY wants to make a good impression. Sebastian's father is unaware of anything going on, as his main, and really ONLY, concern is the new innovations in farming he is pursuing with the help of his steward, Evan Keast. Mr Keast, it seems, is not a popular person in the area, mostly because his innovations have meant the loss of work and livelihood for many farm workers.
But when Keast is found murdered in his bed, suspicion lands on a widow from a neighboring town with whom he has been having a torrid relationship, which has culminated in an unexpected pregnancy, which he refuses to neither acknowledge not make right through marriage. At least, that's what it looks like when a bundle of love letters is found among the victim's effects. However, he was strangled with a silk wrap which would have been out of financial reach for any but the most wealthy members of the community.
Flora and Sebastian begin the investigation, but are stumped at every turn by the close-knit community. It seems there are many secrets around here that no one is anxious to have exposed. But many are exposed on the way to the final denouement.
And, FINALLY, Sebastian declares his love for Flora, so we may hope to see the two of them in many more adventures together.
October 21, 2025
This story follows a young and chaotic woman who tags along with her cousin’s interest in crime-solving (see Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries). In this second installment of the Flora Hyde-Clare Mysteries, Flora is visiting her prospective future in-laws’ country estate with her family. Determined to make a good impression and win their approval, she tries her best to present herself (and her relatives) in the best possible light.
Unfortunately, her efforts are quickly overshadowed. Her potential in-laws are unaware of the dramatic and dangerous ordeal she and their dear son and brother Sebastian experienced before—something covered in the first book, involving a villainous godfather and a conniving cousin. Instead of warming up to her, they misjudge her character and actively try to sabotage her and her family. When a well-respected employee is found murdered on the estate, the tension spikes—and of course, Flora can’t help but dive into the investigation, even if it risks ruining her future with Sebastian.
The first half of the book feels a bit chaotic—Flora is silly, overly eager, and prone to wild assumptions and long-winded rambling. Honestly, I found myself losing patience with her at times. But around the halfway point, things start to click: her deductions become sharper, her confidence grows, and the mystery really picks up.
The ending is sweet, satisfying, and filled with small surprises that make the journey worthwhile. Overall, it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery with charm, chaos, and just enough heart.
Thanks NetGalley, the author and publisher for this ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Unfortunately, her efforts are quickly overshadowed. Her potential in-laws are unaware of the dramatic and dangerous ordeal she and their dear son and brother Sebastian experienced before—something covered in the first book, involving a villainous godfather and a conniving cousin. Instead of warming up to her, they misjudge her character and actively try to sabotage her and her family. When a well-respected employee is found murdered on the estate, the tension spikes—and of course, Flora can’t help but dive into the investigation, even if it risks ruining her future with Sebastian.
The first half of the book feels a bit chaotic—Flora is silly, overly eager, and prone to wild assumptions and long-winded rambling. Honestly, I found myself losing patience with her at times. But around the halfway point, things start to click: her deductions become sharper, her confidence grows, and the mystery really picks up.
The ending is sweet, satisfying, and filled with small surprises that make the journey worthwhile. Overall, it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery with charm, chaos, and just enough heart.
Thanks NetGalley, the author and publisher for this ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 10, 2025
A Highly Courageous Adventure by Lynn Messina is the second installment following the adventures of Flora Hyde-Clare. This addition, Flora and the Hyde-Clare’s family are guests at the home of her suitor, Sebastian Holcroft. Flora is set on impressing Sebastian’s family with hopes that a proposal is forthcoming but struggles as his family are less than receptive. During the visit, the Holcroft family’s land steward is found murdered. Flora immediately pursues the investigation which creates tension as Sebastion family are among the suspects.
I really enjoy this series, especially seeing Flora develop and mature as a character. The story also lets us discover new aspects of Vera, viewing her from her daughter's perspective. The other members of the Hyde-Clare family also experience growth and as the investigation progress they see their daughter in a more mature light and defend her when her investigative skills are questioned.
The story captivates with its clever humor and moments that genuinely make you laugh aloud. It features a lovely array of supporting characters and is delightfully entertaining, much like the other entries in the Beatrice and Lark series. While the stories are connected, this installment stands well on its own, as it provides enough background from previous books for new readers to easily follow along.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical cozy mysteries and fans of the Beatrice Hyde Clare universe. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Book Whisperer for the eARC of the book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoy this series, especially seeing Flora develop and mature as a character. The story also lets us discover new aspects of Vera, viewing her from her daughter's perspective. The other members of the Hyde-Clare family also experience growth and as the investigation progress they see their daughter in a more mature light and defend her when her investigative skills are questioned.
The story captivates with its clever humor and moments that genuinely make you laugh aloud. It features a lovely array of supporting characters and is delightfully entertaining, much like the other entries in the Beatrice and Lark series. While the stories are connected, this installment stands well on its own, as it provides enough background from previous books for new readers to easily follow along.
I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical cozy mysteries and fans of the Beatrice Hyde Clare universe. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and Book Whisperer for the eARC of the book. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2025
This is the second book in Flora Hyde-Clare's offshoot of Beatrice Hyde-Clare series of cozy mysteries. I hadn't read the first when this title showed up so I made sure to backtrack and catch up on Flora's first adventure before moving to this one. These mysteries can be read as standalones to a degree, but it really does help to have read the previous books. In the earlier book, Flora, hope to follow in cousin Bea's footsteps and solve a murder mystery. In the course of doing her research, she encounters Sebastian, who becomes her sidekick and love interest. In the current offering, some time has passed and Flora and family are off to stay with Sebastian's family, with some idea towards moving along their courtship. Unfortunately, it seems these Hyde-Clare women can't seem to go anywhere without murders occurring and Flora immediately starts investigating.
In the earlier adventure, Flora and Sebastian are together most of the time. In this outing, they are working more separately due to reasons that you will have to read about. Flora ends up going off in the wrong direction a number of times but somehow, she stumbles along and gets to solve the murder in the end. Her methods are not as tidy at Bea's, but they are enjoyable, and it shows she doesn't have to be just like her cousin to be able to do an investigation. This story like others in the series is a cozy mystery with some romantic notions added in. It all adds up to a fun read.
Thank to Netgalley and Book Whisperer for the free advanced reader copy. I have provided my feedback voluntarily.
In the earlier adventure, Flora and Sebastian are together most of the time. In this outing, they are working more separately due to reasons that you will have to read about. Flora ends up going off in the wrong direction a number of times but somehow, she stumbles along and gets to solve the murder in the end. Her methods are not as tidy at Bea's, but they are enjoyable, and it shows she doesn't have to be just like her cousin to be able to do an investigation. This story like others in the series is a cozy mystery with some romantic notions added in. It all adds up to a fun read.
Thank to Netgalley and Book Whisperer for the free advanced reader copy. I have provided my feedback voluntarily.
October 31, 2025
Thank you to the author for the eARC; all opinions are my own.
When the author announced the next book in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare mystery series would be a Flora Hyde-Clare mystery, I was very excited. I read the previous Flora mystery and thoroughly enjoyed how the author maintained the level of detail of the story but in the voice/mind of Flora who is a VERY different character than Beatrice. Flora's way of investigating is different, her motivations are different, and, critically, the way other people see Flora is different. They underestimate her (except for, perhaps, Sebastian), and throughout this story, she leveraged that perception of her to her advantage.
The investigation of the murder is done well. There are clues provided throughout the story, along with red herrings. Flora's investigation leads to a conclusion that makes sense, and also results in a satisfying next step in her relationship with Sebastian.
For readers new to this series, they should be aware that the books take place over a matter of days, not weeks. Moreover, the story is told mainly from within the head of the main character with not as much dialogue. We get a lot of the thinking, which is fun to follow how Flora (or Beatrice) arrive at their decisions, conclusions, accusations.
I always enjoy reading the books in this series and will look forward to the next one!
When the author announced the next book in the Beatrice Hyde-Clare mystery series would be a Flora Hyde-Clare mystery, I was very excited. I read the previous Flora mystery and thoroughly enjoyed how the author maintained the level of detail of the story but in the voice/mind of Flora who is a VERY different character than Beatrice. Flora's way of investigating is different, her motivations are different, and, critically, the way other people see Flora is different. They underestimate her (except for, perhaps, Sebastian), and throughout this story, she leveraged that perception of her to her advantage.
The investigation of the murder is done well. There are clues provided throughout the story, along with red herrings. Flora's investigation leads to a conclusion that makes sense, and also results in a satisfying next step in her relationship with Sebastian.
For readers new to this series, they should be aware that the books take place over a matter of days, not weeks. Moreover, the story is told mainly from within the head of the main character with not as much dialogue. We get a lot of the thinking, which is fun to follow how Flora (or Beatrice) arrive at their decisions, conclusions, accusations.
I always enjoy reading the books in this series and will look forward to the next one!
February 9, 2026
In the latest Flora Hyde-Clare novel, readers follow her as she travels with her family to Sebastian Holcroft’s parents’ home in the country. However, one of the servants winds up dead in his bed, and this particular servant, Adrian Singleton, had ideas for the estate’s future and a dalliance with a local, impoverished widow he never planned to marry. Everyone believes the widow strangled him to death with her own scarf, but Flora can’t see how she would have gotten such a fashionable accessory this far from the city and begins an investigation knowing the results might end her relationship with Sebastian. The characters are the stars of the book, and the mystery, like Messina’s other novels, is well-written and packed with detail. Flora is a competent investigator, and her relationships with other characters add depth to the story, while the challenges ahead of her add some necessary drama and challenges to her life. The other characters and the setting complement the mystery and larger storyline well, and the depth of detail in the novel really pulls readers into the mystery and cozy country setting. Entertaining and high-stakes, historical mystery fans will love Lynn Messina’s latest novel featuring Flora Hyde-Clare.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advance copy.
October 31, 2025
Flora just wants her love to declare his own love for her and ask for her hand in marriage. Well, she also wants her mother to be quiet and her father to chill. That's hard enough until a murder occurs while trying to win over her love and his family. Now the pot is really stirred.
The author is very talented when it comes to creating such characters that have you chuckling and enjoying being around them. Character development is very strong in the story as the author creates another series in the same world of character that can be found in other series of hers. So avid followers of her will find familiar characters and enjoyment in their antics.
I did struggle with the writing style of this author. I have read a few other books written by her in this same universe. There is an abundance of telling to the reader and very little show. The reader hears of what has happened to others and spends a large amount of time listening to inner thoughts of the character. It is through Flora that we learn anything and usually as she thinks upon it. As a reader, I like to experience the story. Here I feel like I'm reading a letter from someone who heard about it from someone else. Not as engaging as I would have liked.
The author is very talented when it comes to creating such characters that have you chuckling and enjoying being around them. Character development is very strong in the story as the author creates another series in the same world of character that can be found in other series of hers. So avid followers of her will find familiar characters and enjoyment in their antics.
I did struggle with the writing style of this author. I have read a few other books written by her in this same universe. There is an abundance of telling to the reader and very little show. The reader hears of what has happened to others and spends a large amount of time listening to inner thoughts of the character. It is through Flora that we learn anything and usually as she thinks upon it. As a reader, I like to experience the story. Here I feel like I'm reading a letter from someone who heard about it from someone else. Not as engaging as I would have liked.
November 15, 2025
If you’ve read Lynn’s Duchess Beatrice books (and you really should), you know that she has a younger cousin Flora. Set in Regency England, both of these women solve murders and do against the wishes of their family, societal rules and the prevailing thought about women in the day…ornamental at best. While Bea was an outcast in the home where she grew up with her aunt’s family, Flora is the apple of her mother’s eye. Bea is smart, fearless and no-nonsense. Flora also is smart, fearless and determined to emulate the Duchess, but hides her detective work until she is confronted by a killer. Flora can stand on her own but her sleuthing takes a circuitous path and is often quite funny. Flora and her family at visiting a house in the country to meet the family of her beau and, hopefully overcome any objections to her and the family heir. Of course this doesn’t go well at all and in the midst of the debacle, the family’s land manager is found strangled in his bed. Who is the killer and how Flora goes about identifying them is a romp of a comedy of manners. You will root for Flora to overcome her very unfortunate mother, solve the murder and win her beau. All on her own, without her cousin’s help. A courageous adventure indeed.
November 15, 2025
This was highly entertaining and highly ridiculous.
Flora is a great MFC, she's determined and brave, and smart. She is very aware of her time, her limitations and she adapts brilliantly. She is also utterly insane, as are her parents, the absurd hijinks had me smiling and rolling my eyes in equal measure. It was harmless though, and so I was able to just relax into the sillier aspects and enjoy it.
I was raging for her as Sebastian's family treated her so terribly. I also raged at Sebastian for the first twenty odd percent of the book, but he redeemed himself and then some by the end. He was a wonderful MMC, a worthy companion and I look forward to more books about these two.
The mystery was fine, it wasn't too deep as there was a very limited pool of suspects and clues, but I enjoyed how it unfolded.
I have not read the previous book - I don't think you need to, but this book does spoil the ending of the first, so I do wish I'd read it first, as while I still really want to, I think I would find it more disappointing than it deserves.
This is a light, fun read, a regency tale that doesn't revolve around The Season but still manages to capture so many aspects of that time.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
Flora is a great MFC, she's determined and brave, and smart. She is very aware of her time, her limitations and she adapts brilliantly. She is also utterly insane, as are her parents, the absurd hijinks had me smiling and rolling my eyes in equal measure. It was harmless though, and so I was able to just relax into the sillier aspects and enjoy it.
I was raging for her as Sebastian's family treated her so terribly. I also raged at Sebastian for the first twenty odd percent of the book, but he redeemed himself and then some by the end. He was a wonderful MMC, a worthy companion and I look forward to more books about these two.
The mystery was fine, it wasn't too deep as there was a very limited pool of suspects and clues, but I enjoyed how it unfolded.
I have not read the previous book - I don't think you need to, but this book does spoil the ending of the first, so I do wish I'd read it first, as while I still really want to, I think I would find it more disappointing than it deserves.
This is a light, fun read, a regency tale that doesn't revolve around The Season but still manages to capture so many aspects of that time.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
October 17, 2025
I love the Bea-universe in all of its forms and facets, period. No series makes me laughs so, think hard and be impressed by how formidable the characters are.
The banter is always witty and brilliant, the investigation insightful and never boring.
In this particular book it is Flora that takes center stage with a Sebastian somewhat absent through most of the story, I love this couple and hope we will get to see more of them.
But it is Vera Hyde-Clare that really was a surprise this time, she is always making me giggle with the way she is trying to be "Mrs. Halfway", but always fails miserably in her effort to be invisible to her betters. We get to see a different side of her in this book and it is refreshing.
Whether the next will be a Bea story, a Verity story or a Flora story, I am eagerly waiting for it!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
The banter is always witty and brilliant, the investigation insightful and never boring.
In this particular book it is Flora that takes center stage with a Sebastian somewhat absent through most of the story, I love this couple and hope we will get to see more of them.
But it is Vera Hyde-Clare that really was a surprise this time, she is always making me giggle with the way she is trying to be "Mrs. Halfway", but always fails miserably in her effort to be invisible to her betters. We get to see a different side of her in this book and it is refreshing.
Whether the next will be a Bea story, a Verity story or a Flora story, I am eagerly waiting for it!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
October 20, 2025
I am enjoying this spin-off series focused on Flora Hyde-Clare. It is quite funny and interesting to see a different perspective of the Hyde-Clare family members apart from Bea's. I think it has made me a bit more fond of Vera Hyde-Clare to see her through her daughter's eyes, who has empathy for her anxious nature. I love seeing Flora grow into a confident adult who knows what she wants and is willing to fight for it. I enjoyed seeing her parents begin to see her in a new light and stand up for her and her abilities (as much as they are able). Sebastian's family members are also interesting and add so many different dynamics, and reading about the interactions had me flipping back and forth between anger and amusement. I am very much looking forward to what Flora & Sebastian will do next in their relationship and how their families come along for the ride.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book
November 10, 2025
This is a book that will engage a reader , taking you into a world where imagination
takes precedence - a lovely way to spend a rainy afternoon .
Flora is desperate to charm and impress her beau Sebastian Holcroft's family - which just goes
to show that what can go wrong will go wrong . Finding a dead body amongst the servants fits the bill .!
She will show the family that she is worthy of their scion and solve the case despite their ridicule of
her attempts , false starts notwithstanding .
Her mother's unfortunate ability to ramble and insult others without realising it adds to this delightful
story , making me smile along the way . A thoroughly enjoyable read .
I look forward to reading more in this series from the Author , who has now gone on to my TBR
whenever a book becomes available
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
takes precedence - a lovely way to spend a rainy afternoon .
Flora is desperate to charm and impress her beau Sebastian Holcroft's family - which just goes
to show that what can go wrong will go wrong . Finding a dead body amongst the servants fits the bill .!
She will show the family that she is worthy of their scion and solve the case despite their ridicule of
her attempts , false starts notwithstanding .
Her mother's unfortunate ability to ramble and insult others without realising it adds to this delightful
story , making me smile along the way . A thoroughly enjoyable read .
I look forward to reading more in this series from the Author , who has now gone on to my TBR
whenever a book becomes available
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
November 6, 2025
Flora Hyde-Clare has a huge task at hand. She must win Sebastian Holcroft's family's approval in order for him to propose to her. Flora is ready and well informed, she will win over Seb's family. However, once at the Holcroft family estate, a steward is found dead. This is Flora's last chance to stand out and finally impress the Holcroft family.
Flora is such a sweet, funny and very intuitive character. I always enjoy a story where women aren't taken seriously. Flora uses all the knowledge available to her and her times to figure out in the smartest way possible who the killer is. I had some laugh out loud moments and I will go back and read book one because I found this story and its characters to be so delightful.
Thank you Netgalley and Book Whisperer for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Flora is such a sweet, funny and very intuitive character. I always enjoy a story where women aren't taken seriously. Flora uses all the knowledge available to her and her times to figure out in the smartest way possible who the killer is. I had some laugh out loud moments and I will go back and read book one because I found this story and its characters to be so delightful.
Thank you Netgalley and Book Whisperer for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
November 9, 2025
A Highly Courageous Adventure: A Regency Cozy (Flora Hyde-Clare Mysteries Book 2) is a murder mystery with a young sleuth on the hunt for the killer. Flora Hyde-Clare’s visit to her boyfriend ‘s family, it is not the charming visit that was intended. The murder is not a family member’s death, but Flora knows that it could involve a family though the police don’t think so. Thank goodness Flora stays on the lookout for clues of the killer’s identity. This historical cozy mystery has some lovely characters like Flora; some I am on the fence feeling wise like Sebastian and some awful ones like the females in Sebastian’s family. By Lynn Messina, I had thought that this was book one but there is another book before this one written several years ago but this story involves Flora’s cousin Bea. Fans will want to read them all.
October 23, 2025
3.5 stars
A highly entertaining Regency cozy which often strays into over the top and outrageous prose, but with humor and tongue in cheek.
I have not read the related series but Flora Hyde-Clare is a strong main character. Her forthrightness and her wacky family add to the generally madcap mood.
Flora and family are visiting her beloved Sebastian's family in hopes of moving forward to a betrothal. The murder of a controversial steward working for his family gives the couple an assignment - to solve the crime. Unfortunately the suspects include his parents and sibling but that doesn't deter the determined duo.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A highly entertaining Regency cozy which often strays into over the top and outrageous prose, but with humor and tongue in cheek.
I have not read the related series but Flora Hyde-Clare is a strong main character. Her forthrightness and her wacky family add to the generally madcap mood.
Flora and family are visiting her beloved Sebastian's family in hopes of moving forward to a betrothal. The murder of a controversial steward working for his family gives the couple an assignment - to solve the crime. Unfortunately the suspects include his parents and sibling but that doesn't deter the determined duo.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 19, 2025
In Regency England, Flora is navigating a week at her suitor's house for a meet-the-family, though Sebastian's family is anything but friendly to her own. When one of their staff is murdered, she takes it upon herself to investigate. Even her hosts are suspects.
I love the idea of this book and enjoy good historical fiction, but this missed the mark for me. The characters felt a bit one-dimensional, and the narrative is stream of consciousness, which isn't my favorite style in any genre. So, in that sense, it felt slow. That said, it was a fun read. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys really getting into a character's thought process and who likes a good period mystery.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love the idea of this book and enjoy good historical fiction, but this missed the mark for me. The characters felt a bit one-dimensional, and the narrative is stream of consciousness, which isn't my favorite style in any genre. So, in that sense, it felt slow. That said, it was a fun read. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys really getting into a character's thought process and who likes a good period mystery.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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February 15, 2026Russian flame, not orange
The mystery in this book is a delight to watch being unraveled by Flora--who really comes into her own here--and along such a twisty path. But as I was pondering the ending, I realized something that Flora clearly did not: her penultimate suspect *must* have realized who the real culprit was before Flora did. Now I want to go back and try to figure out when!
I also found it interesting that much of the mystery turns on the differences in ability to recognize the value of an object between male and female characters. I'm sure there are other things that the female characters would be clueless about that the male characters would easy recognize. But it was intriguing for the plot to turn on that specific detail.
The mystery in this book is a delight to watch being unraveled by Flora--who really comes into her own here--and along such a twisty path. But as I was pondering the ending, I realized something that Flora clearly did not: her penultimate suspect *must* have realized who the real culprit was before Flora did. Now I want to go back and try to figure out when!
I also found it interesting that much of the mystery turns on the differences in ability to recognize the value of an object between male and female characters. I'm sure there are other things that the female characters would be clueless about that the male characters would easy recognize. But it was intriguing for the plot to turn on that specific detail.
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