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Minnie Harper #2
A Murder in Marylebone
After over a decade away, widowed mother of two Minnie Harper has left sunny Greece and returned to her native England at the turn of the 20th century—just as a cloud of suspicion falls over her younger sister in this cozy historical mystery for fans of Jessica Fellowes, Tasha Alexander, Deanna Raybourn, Rhys Bowen, and the PBS series The Durrells in Corfu.
The world is changing at the dawn of the 20th century, but respectable English families still dread a public scandal. So Minnie agrees to accompany her reckless sister, Delia, for a night on the town with her Bohemian friends. The evening involves a raucous house party, a visit to a fortune-teller, and an encounter with a flirtatious baron, but none of that unsettles Minnie more than running into Stephen Dorian, her former employer in Corfu, who stirs in her a mix of resentment and attraction.
Soon after, Delia discovers the body of her rumored beau in his own home, and Minnie insists on playing by the rules and informing the police. After all, fleeing the scene could suggest Delia is guilty of more than an improper late-night rendezvous . . .
When the sisters return to the townhouse, their parents, dreading the threat of gossip, insist that Minnie help clear Delia’s name. Her discreet investigation will take her back into Delia’s decadent circle and have her crossing paths again with the baron—a collector of antiques—and the infuriating Stephen Dorian. But her new social life is soon overshadowed by dangerous intrigue that leads her to question even her own past . . .
The world is changing at the dawn of the 20th century, but respectable English families still dread a public scandal. So Minnie agrees to accompany her reckless sister, Delia, for a night on the town with her Bohemian friends. The evening involves a raucous house party, a visit to a fortune-teller, and an encounter with a flirtatious baron, but none of that unsettles Minnie more than running into Stephen Dorian, her former employer in Corfu, who stirs in her a mix of resentment and attraction.
Soon after, Delia discovers the body of her rumored beau in his own home, and Minnie insists on playing by the rules and informing the police. After all, fleeing the scene could suggest Delia is guilty of more than an improper late-night rendezvous . . .
When the sisters return to the townhouse, their parents, dreading the threat of gossip, insist that Minnie help clear Delia’s name. Her discreet investigation will take her back into Delia’s decadent circle and have her crossing paths again with the baron—a collector of antiques—and the infuriating Stephen Dorian. But her new social life is soon overshadowed by dangerous intrigue that leads her to question even her own past . . .
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2026
About the author
Emily Sullivan
7 books405 followersEmily Sullivan is an award-winning author of historical romance and mysteries set in the late Victorian period. Her books have received multiple starred reviews from trade journals including Publishers Weekly and Booklist, and have been praised by The New York Public Library, Bookpage, Entertainment Weekly, and Buzzfeed, among others.
She lives in New England with her family, where she enjoys reading about history and writing about rebellious women.
She lives in New England with her family, where she enjoys reading about history and writing about rebellious women.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
April 30, 2026
A Murder in Marylebone by Emily Sullivan
Minnie Harper series #2. Historical cozy mystery. Best read in series order.
Minnie Harper has returned to England with her two children. Her husband passed more than a year ago and while she has questions about their initial reasons for moving to Corfu, she’s now willing to move so her daughter can attend a proper school.
Minnie accompanies her sister Delia to a party for propriety sake and later that night, Delia’s beau is found dead. Minnie calls the police and ends up doing her own investigation when Delia appears to be the main suspect. She gets help from her former employer on Corfu, writer Stephen Dorian, who she is both delighted to see again, as well as mad at him for the way things ended between them.
The police seem more competent in England than on Corfu, but Minnie is still running rings around them all in asking the right questions.
But asking those questions has also put her in the spotlight of the killer.
Interesting storyline with Minnie being almost ten years older than her naïve sister and leading totally different lives. Being on Corfu for so many years, Minnie has forgone many of society strict rules. They simply didn’t work on the tiny island. Back in England, she has to conform, at least for the most part, to get entry to the various people and parties and get answers for her sister.
It was amusing that tho Minnie and Stephen worked together for months and are now back together investigating this current murder, that she continues to call him Mr. Dorian throughout the full story.
I loved the in-depth characterization of her children and ailing father.
Good mystery. Better characters.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Minnie Harper series #2. Historical cozy mystery. Best read in series order.
Minnie Harper has returned to England with her two children. Her husband passed more than a year ago and while she has questions about their initial reasons for moving to Corfu, she’s now willing to move so her daughter can attend a proper school.
Minnie accompanies her sister Delia to a party for propriety sake and later that night, Delia’s beau is found dead. Minnie calls the police and ends up doing her own investigation when Delia appears to be the main suspect. She gets help from her former employer on Corfu, writer Stephen Dorian, who she is both delighted to see again, as well as mad at him for the way things ended between them.
The police seem more competent in England than on Corfu, but Minnie is still running rings around them all in asking the right questions.
But asking those questions has also put her in the spotlight of the killer.
Interesting storyline with Minnie being almost ten years older than her naïve sister and leading totally different lives. Being on Corfu for so many years, Minnie has forgone many of society strict rules. They simply didn’t work on the tiny island. Back in England, she has to conform, at least for the most part, to get entry to the various people and parties and get answers for her sister.
It was amusing that tho Minnie and Stephen worked together for months and are now back together investigating this current murder, that she continues to call him Mr. Dorian throughout the full story.
I loved the in-depth characterization of her children and ailing father.
Good mystery. Better characters.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
February 22, 2026
I have fallen for Minnie Harper! Though she has experienced personal tragedy and has many responsibilities, she also manages to have a sense of humor and be a sweet mother, sister, and friend. Stephen Dorian, the tortured writer who used a home next door to Minnie in the first book, is back and we also get to meet his brother, an inspector at Scotland Yard.
The cast of characters expands seamlessly - adding seven characters (not even counting butlers and housekeepers) doesn’t feel chaotic at all.
This second book in the series (oddly, these books don’t seem to be marketed as a series) picks up with Minnie back in London, having dropped her teenaged daughter at school. We get to meet Minnie’s siblings, her sister-in-law, and her parents. Sweet Tommy, her son, serves as the conduit to get Minnie and Stephen together for outings, further stoking the flames of attraction between them.
Of course, there’s also a murder. Minnie’s sister, Delia, discovers her fiancé dead and Minnie investigates to exonerate her sister. Stephen joins in, of course.
The story arc about Minnie’s late husband concludes in this book in a very satisfying way!
The slow burn romance is a wonderful aspect of this series. Minnie and Stephen will obviously wind up together eventually, but it’s fun to watch them come together and then dance away from each other.
I can’t wait for the next installment!
The cast of characters expands seamlessly - adding seven characters (not even counting butlers and housekeepers) doesn’t feel chaotic at all.
This second book in the series (oddly, these books don’t seem to be marketed as a series) picks up with Minnie back in London, having dropped her teenaged daughter at school. We get to meet Minnie’s siblings, her sister-in-law, and her parents. Sweet Tommy, her son, serves as the conduit to get Minnie and Stephen together for outings, further stoking the flames of attraction between them.
Of course, there’s also a murder. Minnie’s sister, Delia, discovers her fiancé dead and Minnie investigates to exonerate her sister. Stephen joins in, of course.
The story arc about Minnie’s late husband concludes in this book in a very satisfying way!
The slow burn romance is a wonderful aspect of this series. Minnie and Stephen will obviously wind up together eventually, but it’s fun to watch them come together and then dance away from each other.
I can’t wait for the next installment!
June 10, 2026
A highly enjoyable follow up to the cozy mystery A Death On Corfu. Minnie Harper is back with another mystery but this time she's in England, helping her sister Delia who is the main suspect in a murder. I thought perhaps the removal of Corfu as location would affect the enjoyment of the story, but this was just as charming as the first book. This is an entertaining mix of mystery and a bit of romance thrown in. I enjoyed it very much.
April 28, 2026
You probably all know by now that we love Emily Sullivan's books, so it wasn't a surprise that we both adored A Murder in Marylebone. Minnie and her kids are in London for this installment instead of Corfu, where Minnie still owns their house. After teaming up with mystery writer Stephen Dorian to investigate a murder in A Death on Corfu, Minnie thought that the two of them had formed a connection. But then, after a few digs about Minnie's late husband, Stephen just ... left. Oh no, wouldn't it be just awful if Stephen happened to be in London and ran into Minnie after a party where she's looking REALLY good? (oops)
We both enjoy HistMyst, but our very favorites are those with an important underlying romantic relationship, like this series. Sure, we want to find out whodunnit, but our true focus is on how the mystery will bring our favorite characters together. It's like an even slower burn slow burn that spans several books.
The other thing this book (and Emily Sullivan in general, let's be honest) does really well is the character development. Minnie is a "mature" character (she's in her 30s), but she's only now beginning to reevaluate formative moments in her life: a new perspective on not just her marriage but her familial relationships. Dorian also might seem to be self-assured and arrogant, but he's hiding a well of insecurity. And even secondary characters, like Minnie's sister or Dorian's brother, are complex and intriguing.
What it all boils down to is that we loved this book both on its own merits and as a continuation from book one that has lots of promises for more books in the series! (And Laine may have some theories about the upcoming hurdles for Dorian and Minnie to face together!)
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
We both enjoy HistMyst, but our very favorites are those with an important underlying romantic relationship, like this series. Sure, we want to find out whodunnit, but our true focus is on how the mystery will bring our favorite characters together. It's like an even slower burn slow burn that spans several books.
The other thing this book (and Emily Sullivan in general, let's be honest) does really well is the character development. Minnie is a "mature" character (she's in her 30s), but she's only now beginning to reevaluate formative moments in her life: a new perspective on not just her marriage but her familial relationships. Dorian also might seem to be self-assured and arrogant, but he's hiding a well of insecurity. And even secondary characters, like Minnie's sister or Dorian's brother, are complex and intriguing.
What it all boils down to is that we loved this book both on its own merits and as a continuation from book one that has lots of promises for more books in the series! (And Laine may have some theories about the upcoming hurdles for Dorian and Minnie to face together!)
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
May 6, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book!
If you liked the first book, you'll probably enjoy this one. I'd also say you could probably get away with jumping in here since Minnie reflects enough on the previous book that you get most of the essential information, but I recommend reading them in order.
I missed the Corfu setting, since I read a lot of historical fiction located around London already, but it was nice to get a good look at the rest of Minnie's family. They are a mix of personalities that still feel like they would come from the same home.
I said in my review of the first book that I didn't particularly care for Stephen Dorian, and I think he's improved here. I was much more exasperated with Minnie. I found myself very often thinking "Minnie, is now really the time?" like, a man just died, maybe focus on that. Your sister is going through it. Your daughter is newly enrolled in boarding school. Your son is meeting family he never got to know before. There's a lot of important stuff going on that could use the attention you're spending on being flustered about Stephen, being preoccupied with your looks, and trying to figure out what your long dead husband was up to.
We get some answers to the questions from the first book, which was satisfying. Despite my complaints about Minnie, I do plan to continue with the series and I enjoy Emily Sullivan's writing in general.
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Miscarriage, Grief
Moderate: Death, Gun violence, Misogyny, Sexism, Blood, Dementia
Minor: Infidelity, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
If you liked the first book, you'll probably enjoy this one. I'd also say you could probably get away with jumping in here since Minnie reflects enough on the previous book that you get most of the essential information, but I recommend reading them in order.
I missed the Corfu setting, since I read a lot of historical fiction located around London already, but it was nice to get a good look at the rest of Minnie's family. They are a mix of personalities that still feel like they would come from the same home.
I said in my review of the first book that I didn't particularly care for Stephen Dorian, and I think he's improved here. I was much more exasperated with Minnie. I found myself very often thinking "Minnie, is now really the time?" like, a man just died, maybe focus on that. Your sister is going through it. Your daughter is newly enrolled in boarding school. Your son is meeting family he never got to know before. There's a lot of important stuff going on that could use the attention you're spending on being flustered about Stephen, being preoccupied with your looks, and trying to figure out what your long dead husband was up to.
We get some answers to the questions from the first book, which was satisfying. Despite my complaints about Minnie, I do plan to continue with the series and I enjoy Emily Sullivan's writing in general.
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Miscarriage, Grief
Moderate: Death, Gun violence, Misogyny, Sexism, Blood, Dementia
Minor: Infidelity, Alcohol, Injury/Injury detail
May 1, 2026
4.5⭐️
Widow Minnie Harper has returned to London from Corfu in order to set her daughter up at school. As she settles in with her and reconnects with her parents and sister, she is asked by her mother to keep an eye on her sister who has been keeping questionable company…
That doesn’t end well, when her Delia’s secret beau turns up dead and, Minnie finds herself in the middle of the investigation in order to clear her sister’s name!
As if Minnie isn’t busy enough, she finds herself reconnecting with her old Corfu acquaintance/ almost love interest, the infamous writer, Mr. Dorian! After parting in unsavoury way under terms- Minnie is surprised to find Dorian also linked to the case and offering to help her investigate!
I had such a fun time reuniting with not only many and her kids, but Stephen Dorian as well! Emily Sullivan does an amazing job creating such lively and vibrant characters that are so easy to invest your time in. I found myself caring about Delia‘s prospects and at the same time hoping for a reconciliation between Minnie and Dorian. Emily is truly one of those authors who’s moved from her historical romance roots into the historical fiction. Genre seamlessly. Her mystery kept me on my toes, but still felt plausible enough for a regular lady to be still poking her nose in the investigation. Her pairing of Minnie and Dorian is excellent, and I absolutely adore how Dorian respects her autonomy and seeks out her point of view.
Overall, this was a fun book, that definitely has me looking forward to the next murder, whether it be on the sunny Shores of Corfu or the rainy streets of London- either way I know Minnie and Dorian will put their will they/won’t they relationship aside and focus on the case!
Widow Minnie Harper has returned to London from Corfu in order to set her daughter up at school. As she settles in with her and reconnects with her parents and sister, she is asked by her mother to keep an eye on her sister who has been keeping questionable company…
That doesn’t end well, when her Delia’s secret beau turns up dead and, Minnie finds herself in the middle of the investigation in order to clear her sister’s name!
As if Minnie isn’t busy enough, she finds herself reconnecting with her old Corfu acquaintance/ almost love interest, the infamous writer, Mr. Dorian! After parting in unsavoury way under terms- Minnie is surprised to find Dorian also linked to the case and offering to help her investigate!
I had such a fun time reuniting with not only many and her kids, but Stephen Dorian as well! Emily Sullivan does an amazing job creating such lively and vibrant characters that are so easy to invest your time in. I found myself caring about Delia‘s prospects and at the same time hoping for a reconciliation between Minnie and Dorian. Emily is truly one of those authors who’s moved from her historical romance roots into the historical fiction. Genre seamlessly. Her mystery kept me on my toes, but still felt plausible enough for a regular lady to be still poking her nose in the investigation. Her pairing of Minnie and Dorian is excellent, and I absolutely adore how Dorian respects her autonomy and seeks out her point of view.
Overall, this was a fun book, that definitely has me looking forward to the next murder, whether it be on the sunny Shores of Corfu or the rainy streets of London- either way I know Minnie and Dorian will put their will they/won’t they relationship aside and focus on the case!
February 13, 2026
5 BIG STARS FOR MINNIE HARPER AND STEPHEN DORIAN!!!
I think at this point everyone knows I absolutely adore Emily Sullivans stories. I think she’s doing incredible work in the historical romance space and she continues that work in the historical mystery space.
Half way through A Death on Corfu I had to immediately request this arc and I quite literally leaped when I got approved and I’m happy to report that it didn’t disappoint.
We follow Minnie as she’s back in London with her family after leaving Corfu. There, she is reacquainted with her sister Delia who is an artist. Minnie acts as chaperone for Delia and her suitor Charles, and off they go to a party. While there she bumps into none other than Mr Stephen Dorian, the neighbour and author who had employed her as a typist in Corfu. And when I tell you that their reunion is ANGSTY AND DELICIOUS I MEAN IT!!! Obviously things go down and somehow Charles ends up murdered in his home at the end of the night. And our murder mystery takes legs…
The mystery kept me on my toes throughout. The side characters kept me guessing on who the perpetrator could be and the slowburn romance kept me giddy and excited to see where my two favourites were gonna go next.
The romance. Ugh I could literally scream about these two at the top of my lungs. Emily is such a wonderful romance writer and the tension and yearning she injected into this story was absolutely insane. I love them so so much and the ending has me excited for Minnie Harper 3!!
I’m being so serious when I say I need Emily to give me 100 more Minnie Harper mysteries. I will never get sick of reading about her.
thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for sending me the arc.
Release date: 28th of April 2026.
I think at this point everyone knows I absolutely adore Emily Sullivans stories. I think she’s doing incredible work in the historical romance space and she continues that work in the historical mystery space.
Half way through A Death on Corfu I had to immediately request this arc and I quite literally leaped when I got approved and I’m happy to report that it didn’t disappoint.
We follow Minnie as she’s back in London with her family after leaving Corfu. There, she is reacquainted with her sister Delia who is an artist. Minnie acts as chaperone for Delia and her suitor Charles, and off they go to a party. While there she bumps into none other than Mr Stephen Dorian, the neighbour and author who had employed her as a typist in Corfu. And when I tell you that their reunion is ANGSTY AND DELICIOUS I MEAN IT!!! Obviously things go down and somehow Charles ends up murdered in his home at the end of the night. And our murder mystery takes legs…
The mystery kept me on my toes throughout. The side characters kept me guessing on who the perpetrator could be and the slowburn romance kept me giddy and excited to see where my two favourites were gonna go next.
The romance. Ugh I could literally scream about these two at the top of my lungs. Emily is such a wonderful romance writer and the tension and yearning she injected into this story was absolutely insane. I love them so so much and the ending has me excited for Minnie Harper 3!!
I’m being so serious when I say I need Emily to give me 100 more Minnie Harper mysteries. I will never get sick of reading about her.
thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for sending me the arc.
Release date: 28th of April 2026.
December 1, 2025
I was a little sad that this one was set in London, bc I loved the Corfu setting of the first book in the series. But I really enjoyed it! Minnie is coming into her own, and it was great to find out more of the backstory of her family and her late husband Oliver’s family.
May 8, 2026
I wasn’t sure how this series would fare when Minnie went back to London. But it held up. And I think the change of scenery and new characters add interest. I hope we get to meet Aunt Agatha in book 3.
April 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this one. It’s exactly the kind of story I love: an engaging historical mystery layered with a subtle, well-developed romance. The slow-burn dynamic between the characters adds so much tension and depth without overshadowing the central investigation. The investigation itself kept me hooked the whole time, and the balance between plot and relationship made it hard to put down.
A really strong second book, and definitely a satisfying read for fans of historical mysteries with a romantic edge.
Thank you to Netgalley for this eArc.
A really strong second book, and definitely a satisfying read for fans of historical mysteries with a romantic edge.
Thank you to Netgalley for this eArc.
September 20, 2026
4 Stars
***LIBBY Audio***
MC's: Minnie and Dorian
This story, for me, was a solid 4 Stars. The ending from A Death In Corfu continues in this book, so the reader does get an answer to that question. I liked the characters, including the MC's. The ending has a small cliffhanger, and I look forward to book #3 to get an answer to that one.
***LIBBY Audio***
MC's: Minnie and Dorian
This story, for me, was a solid 4 Stars. The ending from A Death In Corfu continues in this book, so the reader does get an answer to that question. I liked the characters, including the MC's. The ending has a small cliffhanger, and I look forward to book #3 to get an answer to that one.
November 23, 2025
That gorgeous cover drew me and the intriguing cozy mystery with roots in Greece and England at the turn of the 20th century kept me pinned to the page. Histfic mystery fans will be entranced, as I was!
June 2, 2026
I’m just so very obsessed with Minnie and Stephen’s chemistry- it’s so subtle but always underlying and I adore every second they’re on page together. Overall, Emily keeps me so engaged in this series by giving me enough mystery and intrigue with a small dash of romance to keep me wanting more. Stephen is such a secret yearner, and Minnie is sometimes so oblivious to this. There are moments where I wish we got his POV (maybe Emily will one day grace us with a few chapters or some bonus material!) but it’s almost nice that we don’t and just witness his yearning through Minnie’s observations. She’s reluctant to believe he could ever be into her, and as the audience it’s so clear how much he adores her.
This book is such a great commentary on womanhood, and the various roles one can hold throughout their life. Minnie has been both a wife, mother, and now is trying to learn what she is again outside of those roles. As her kids are getting older, and needing her in different ways now, she’s learning to adjust and also adjust her expectations of what’s next. Minnie is so raw in her feelings and relatable in a way I would never expect. I love every bit of her and am glad we get to immerse ourselves in her pov again and again with this series. I could do with ten more of these book- more Minnie please and thank you!!
This was another amazing entry in the series!! Minnie’s complex and layered family dynamics were so well done and pulled me into this story just as Minnie was pulled along to her sister’s party and subsequent murder investigation of her beau. And the investigation delivers on equal parts intrigue and a bit of suspense. I wasn’t quite sure where it was gonna go, and I think that’s so important in a mystery series like this- I want to be a bit surprised. Stephen Dorian continues to be a swoony hero, even if we don’t get his POV the pining is so plain and I live for that kind of yearning- especially in a multi-book saga like this one. As soon as I finished the last page, I was already missing this world and these characters! I will be most excitedly awaiting another mystery for these two to solve, and (hopefully) a fully realized HEA.
5/5
historical mystery, back with Minnie!, they like to tease each other, investigating a murder, layered family dynamics
This book is such a great commentary on womanhood, and the various roles one can hold throughout their life. Minnie has been both a wife, mother, and now is trying to learn what she is again outside of those roles. As her kids are getting older, and needing her in different ways now, she’s learning to adjust and also adjust her expectations of what’s next. Minnie is so raw in her feelings and relatable in a way I would never expect. I love every bit of her and am glad we get to immerse ourselves in her pov again and again with this series. I could do with ten more of these book- more Minnie please and thank you!!
This was another amazing entry in the series!! Minnie’s complex and layered family dynamics were so well done and pulled me into this story just as Minnie was pulled along to her sister’s party and subsequent murder investigation of her beau. And the investigation delivers on equal parts intrigue and a bit of suspense. I wasn’t quite sure where it was gonna go, and I think that’s so important in a mystery series like this- I want to be a bit surprised. Stephen Dorian continues to be a swoony hero, even if we don’t get his POV the pining is so plain and I live for that kind of yearning- especially in a multi-book saga like this one. As soon as I finished the last page, I was already missing this world and these characters! I will be most excitedly awaiting another mystery for these two to solve, and (hopefully) a fully realized HEA.
5/5
historical mystery, back with Minnie!, they like to tease each other, investigating a murder, layered family dynamics
September 27, 2026
Emily Sullivan has once again hit it out of the park with a murder in Marylebone. I know we had to recap a little bit and I won’t lie some of it did annoy me at the very start because I had read it so quickly after a death on corfu but it really didn’t take away from the story. Some authors don’t know how to recap properly and spend half the book reminiscing over the end of the last book which I feel takes up too much time in the second book.
I do love romance books and would 100% call myself a romance girly but Emily Sullivan has brought me a new found appreciation for murder mysteries. I’m aware there is a back drop romance which I also am in love with, I have to say it’s the perfect combination of both. One doesn’t over shadow the other which sometimes I find people tend to get carried away / neglect one or the other. Not here though.
My love for Minnie just grows in this book, I love her fierce determination and her love for her children while although she doesn’t want them to grow up she also wants what’s best for them, I missed Cleo in this book but I was happy to get to know Tommy a bit more, his love for wild animals is hilarious he is just perfectly written. I’m not a fan of books when they already have their lives built and children present but they don’t tend to over shadow the book either.
Having them there as characters is so important but it doesn’t take away from the overall vibe of the books. Minnie having kids doesn’t stop her from her mysterious curiousness which I loved, she’s not a feable woman, she’s strong, resilient and determined which is astounding especially in the time period this is suppose to be wrote in. Don’t get me started on mr Dorian and the love I have for this man, the ending to this book was phenomenal and so fucking perfect.
I do love romance books and would 100% call myself a romance girly but Emily Sullivan has brought me a new found appreciation for murder mysteries. I’m aware there is a back drop romance which I also am in love with, I have to say it’s the perfect combination of both. One doesn’t over shadow the other which sometimes I find people tend to get carried away / neglect one or the other. Not here though.
My love for Minnie just grows in this book, I love her fierce determination and her love for her children while although she doesn’t want them to grow up she also wants what’s best for them, I missed Cleo in this book but I was happy to get to know Tommy a bit more, his love for wild animals is hilarious he is just perfectly written. I’m not a fan of books when they already have their lives built and children present but they don’t tend to over shadow the book either.
Having them there as characters is so important but it doesn’t take away from the overall vibe of the books. Minnie having kids doesn’t stop her from her mysterious curiousness which I loved, she’s not a feable woman, she’s strong, resilient and determined which is astounding especially in the time period this is suppose to be wrote in. Don’t get me started on mr Dorian and the love I have for this man, the ending to this book was phenomenal and so fucking perfect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2026
I missed book one, but had no trouble jumping in with Minnie and her family situation. I liked her and sympathized with her immediately. But some of the other threads will be better enjoyed if you read that first book.
A fun cozy, but I needed more clues along the way. A lot of the plot unfolds with characters willingly talking to Minnie and not her detecting much. The big climax is a confession/villain monologue.
Given her other books, I expected a more romantic tension, even for a slow burn. There’s lots of one-sided curiosity that could almost be yearning, but for the first third we don’t even see her interact with Dorian. Maybe all of that was developed in book one and those readers will enjoy this more than I could. There’s also an interconnected mystery about Minne’s first husband that was established in book one.
Be sure you want the mystery and not a HEA if you pick up this one. But I’m optimistic about both for Book 3.
3.5 stars rounded up because I couldn’t put it down. I received an arc from NetGalley
A fun cozy, but I needed more clues along the way. A lot of the plot unfolds with characters willingly talking to Minnie and not her detecting much. The big climax is a confession/villain monologue.
Given her other books, I expected a more romantic tension, even for a slow burn. There’s lots of one-sided curiosity that could almost be yearning, but for the first third we don’t even see her interact with Dorian. Maybe all of that was developed in book one and those readers will enjoy this more than I could. There’s also an interconnected mystery about Minne’s first husband that was established in book one.
Be sure you want the mystery and not a HEA if you pick up this one. But I’m optimistic about both for Book 3.
3.5 stars rounded up because I couldn’t put it down. I received an arc from NetGalley
May 18, 2026
Oh this series gets better and better. I just love Minnie so much! She is sassy and smart and caring and brave. I also really loved getting to know her family and seeing that they are maybe not as stiff and judgmental as we had previously thought. I especially enjoyed seeing her and her younger sister bond and have fun (before tragedy strikes). Of course I adored the banter between Minnie and Dorian - it kept the story light and fun even in the face of danger. I love how you can tell how he needs to protect her, but also wants to let her keep her autonomy. I do miss Corfu and hope to return there in the next book (ESPECIALLY after that ending!) I was shocked and satisfied by the mystery and loved all the twists and gentle sleuthing.
Note: I really adore the audiobook narration! The perfect amount of sass and fun.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
Note: I really adore the audiobook narration! The perfect amount of sass and fun.
Thanks to the publisher for a free copy; my thoughts and review are my own.
June 9, 2026
This is the second in the Minnie Harper historical mystery series. In this one, Minnie has left Corfu temporarily with her children. She has enrolled her daughter in a boarding school in London to prepare her for college. Minnie and her son Tommy are staying in her aunt's home so they can visit her daughter on a regular basis.
We get to see a lot of Minnie's family in this edition, as she is soon involved in solving a murder for which her younger sister is a suspect. Of course, Mr. Dorian appears early on, and ends up investigating along with Minnie.
I missed Corfu, but enjoyed getting to know Minnie, her family, and Mr. Dorian better. I'm now wondering where the next mystery will be set.
We get to see a lot of Minnie's family in this edition, as she is soon involved in solving a murder for which her younger sister is a suspect. Of course, Mr. Dorian appears early on, and ends up investigating along with Minnie.
I missed Corfu, but enjoyed getting to know Minnie, her family, and Mr. Dorian better. I'm now wondering where the next mystery will be set.
May 5, 2026
(4.5 stars)
Thanks to Kensington Books for my gifted physical and digital ARCs!
A MURDER IN MARYLEBONE is the second delightful installment in Emily Sullivan's Minnie Harper series. Minnie is a widow, mother of two, and amateur sleuth. The series takes place in the late 1890s. The first book, A DEATH ON CORFU takes place in Corfu, as the title suggests. For this second book, Minnie has returned to England at least temporarily to transition her daughter to boarding school. She's also reunited with her parents and siblings after a long stretch in Corfu. Minnie accompanies her sister Delia on some social engagements, but before she knows it Delia's gentleman friend has been murdered. Minnie fears her sister will be caught up as a suspect and, since she doesn't trust the police, she decides once again that she needs to do some investigation of her own to clear her sister's name.
Meanwhile, Minnie once again runs into Mr. Dorian, a mystery author she first met in Corfu. While Minnie and Mr. Dorian connected and some sparks certainly flew, their interactions on Corfu ended abruptly. Plus, Mr. Dorian lobbed out some accusations about Minnie's late husband, which left her reeling and questioning everything she thought she knew. In addition to the murder investigation, this book follows Minnie as she tries to learn the truth about matters her husband may have kept hidden from her before his death.
Much like the first book, I loved the tone and genre blend of A Murder in Marylebone. It's such a lovely mix of a historical cozy mystery with the perfect dash of romance, flirtation, and tension between Minnie and Mr. Dorian. Surprisingly enough, I actually had some suspicions that proved correct (that rarely happens to me). While I do advise reading the first book before this one for the best experience, I'd highly recommend both books to readers looking for a historical cozy mystery with endearing characters and a bit of romance to boot. I will continue following Minnie's adventures as long as Emily Sullivan continues to write about them!
Thanks to Kensington Books for my gifted physical and digital ARCs!
A MURDER IN MARYLEBONE is the second delightful installment in Emily Sullivan's Minnie Harper series. Minnie is a widow, mother of two, and amateur sleuth. The series takes place in the late 1890s. The first book, A DEATH ON CORFU takes place in Corfu, as the title suggests. For this second book, Minnie has returned to England at least temporarily to transition her daughter to boarding school. She's also reunited with her parents and siblings after a long stretch in Corfu. Minnie accompanies her sister Delia on some social engagements, but before she knows it Delia's gentleman friend has been murdered. Minnie fears her sister will be caught up as a suspect and, since she doesn't trust the police, she decides once again that she needs to do some investigation of her own to clear her sister's name.
Meanwhile, Minnie once again runs into Mr. Dorian, a mystery author she first met in Corfu. While Minnie and Mr. Dorian connected and some sparks certainly flew, their interactions on Corfu ended abruptly. Plus, Mr. Dorian lobbed out some accusations about Minnie's late husband, which left her reeling and questioning everything she thought she knew. In addition to the murder investigation, this book follows Minnie as she tries to learn the truth about matters her husband may have kept hidden from her before his death.
Much like the first book, I loved the tone and genre blend of A Murder in Marylebone. It's such a lovely mix of a historical cozy mystery with the perfect dash of romance, flirtation, and tension between Minnie and Mr. Dorian. Surprisingly enough, I actually had some suspicions that proved correct (that rarely happens to me). While I do advise reading the first book before this one for the best experience, I'd highly recommend both books to readers looking for a historical cozy mystery with endearing characters and a bit of romance to boot. I will continue following Minnie's adventures as long as Emily Sullivan continues to write about them!
May 20, 2026
I'm enjoying this Regency historical romance murder mystery involving a young widow with a son who is tasked with saving her younger sister's reputation when she discovers a dead body. Unique settings, a mystery that kept me guessing and a memorable cast of characters. Good on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Martha Waters and Alexandra Vasti.
July 30, 2026
It wasn’t like I couldn’t put it down, but also I really needed to know who did it. I’m a fan of Minnie Harper so I’m hoping there’s more mysteries in store for her!
June 13, 2026
Parts of this were enjoyable but I was bothered by the anachronisms:
https://perfectretort.blogspot.com/20...
https://perfectretort.blogspot.com/20...
June 3, 2026
I enjoyed this one as much as the first and am excited for the next to come out!
May 5, 2026
Minnie Harper is back in England with her two children and surprised to discover how her parents and siblings have changed. When her younger sister Delia becomes dangerously entangled in a murder investigation, Minnie comes to the rescue. With the help of Mr. Stephen Dorian, the murder mystery author who might be more than a friend.
A great mystery! Well-drawn characters in an interesting setting at the turn of the nineteenth century. Lots of twists and a satisfying conclusion that had me swooning.
Dear Gentle Readers, this cozy mystery series is for you.
A great mystery! Well-drawn characters in an interesting setting at the turn of the nineteenth century. Lots of twists and a satisfying conclusion that had me swooning.
Dear Gentle Readers, this cozy mystery series is for you.
May 8, 2026
Ahh! I love love loved this second installment in Minnie Harper's story! Can't wait for the next one.
May 2, 2026
Excellent!
Probably the best books I've read in some time. I enjoyed first in this series and couldn't wait for book two, which didn't disappoint. H and h are a little more "mature" and as an older reader that is refreshing. I do not mean to say the main characters are ancient, just a change from typical very young characters. Murder mystery is well developed and attention to description of period is as well. Highly recommend!
Probably the best books I've read in some time. I enjoyed first in this series and couldn't wait for book two, which didn't disappoint. H and h are a little more "mature" and as an older reader that is refreshing. I do not mean to say the main characters are ancient, just a change from typical very young characters. Murder mystery is well developed and attention to description of period is as well. Highly recommend!
April 29, 2026
This series is becoming a favorite of mine! “A Murder in Marylebone” was even more fun than “A Death in Corfu.” I am convinced that there’s truly nothing better than a slow burn romance combined with a cozy mystery. This installment brings Minnie Harper and her two children back to London for her daughter’s school. The enticing mystery begins when Minnie has a night away with her sister, attending a gallery and a party at the estate of a Baron. This story has an immersive setting, captivating family dynamics, a complex murder, and a swoony romance with the return of Mr. Dorian.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
May 5, 2026
This is Maisie Dobbs light. Similar vibes, but not as literary and it was a delight.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A Murder in Marylebone is the second book in a delightful new mystery series by Emily Sullivan, featuring Minnie Harper, a widow in her thirties with two children, in the late 1890s. The first book took place on Corfu, where Minnie had lived with her husband, Oliver, until his sudden death. She had promised him that she would stay on Corfu and raise their children there, but in the previous book her daughter, fourteen-year-old Cleo, decided to go to school in England with the hope of attending Girton College, Cambridge (one of the first colleges for women), just like Minnie did. And so, Minnie and her son, eight-year-old Tommy, who is a budding natural scientist, return to London to be closer to her.
In the previous book, Minnie had worked as a typist for Stephen Dorian, a famous mystery author, who had temporarily taken up residence in a house near hers on Corfu. They got off to a bad start with each other. At their first meeting, Minnie overheard Stephen making a disparaging remark about her at a party, in a scene that’s very reminiscent of Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s first meeting in Pride and Prejudice. In fact, the relationship between Minnie and Stephen, which is the central one in the first book, A Death on Corfu, often parallels that of Elizabeth and Darcy. In fact, as I was reading it, I kept imagining Colin Firth in the role of Stephen, even though I know he would be much too old for it now. But, unlike in Pride and Prejudice, there is no happy ending for the couple, at least in the first book. In fact, they part on bad terms, as Stephen accuses Minnie’s late husband of selling Greek antiquities on the black market, then leaves Corfu without saying goodbye.
Now that Minnie is back in London, she is staying at the home of her Aunt Agatha (yes, really!) while her aunt is traveling on the continent. She is reacquainted with her family, with mixed feelings. Minnie is delighted that they will meet Tommy, and Tommy is just as delighted to meet his cousins, but Minnie has not seen her family since her marriage, fifteen years previously, and she and her parents were never close. Her mother is just as emotionally distant as ever, and she has never approved of Minnie’s choice to get an education and to live on Corfu. Sadly, Minnie’s father has had a bad fall, which no one bothered to tell her about, and he is slowly losing his memory. He does have some lucid moments, though, and he warns Minnie of danger, but she doesn’t know if he is in his right mind or not when he issues his warning.
Minnie’s favorite sibling is her brother Samuel, who lives in India. Her oldest brother, Jack, is a Member of Parliament who is concerned mostly with his political career and wants to avoid any stains on the family’s reputation that might ruin it. He and his wife, Dolly, seem to be two of a kind at first, but Dolly eventually proves to be a friend to Minnie. Minnie’s sister, Delia, the youngest in the family, is a talented artist. She invites Minnie to a gallery opening where her painting will be exhibited.
Although Minnie never cared for London’s social whirl, she is glad to attend the opening, if only to get better acquainted with her sister, who was just a child when Minnie left England. She meets Delia’s bohemian artist friends, as well as Charles Pearson, the young man with whom Delia is in love. Charles deals in antiques as a hobby, and he and Delia keep their relationship a secret from her upper-class parents, who wouldn’t approve of Charles as a husband for their daughter.
Minnie, Delia, and Charles go on from the gallery opening to a more raucous party at the home of a baron, Lord Linden, who is an enthusiast for Greek antiquities and who flirts with Minnie. And then, to Minnie’s dismay, Stephen shows up at the party—with a beautiful woman on his arm. Stephen has a scandalous reputation because of his divorce, the details of which we don’t know for certain. Since he left Corfu, the newspapers have reported on his activities, always going to parties with different women, and Minnie admits she is hurt by what she hears. Of course, it is an awkward encounter. They are obviously still attracted to each other, but don’t know how to get past what happened on Corfu.
A fortune teller warns Minnie to beware of a man in her life, but Minnie doesn’t know if she means Stephen or the baron. Then the fortune teller tells Delia that Charles is already married. She is devastated, and they decide to leave the party early. After Minnie goes to bed, Delia decides to confront Charles at his home, only to find him murdered. She goes back home to get Minnie, and Minnie calls the police, using a telephone, which she had never used before and has to figure out.
The detective inspector assigned to the case is none other than Stephen’s estranged brother. Delia, as the one who found the body, immediately becomes the prime suspect, especially after the police hear that she had wanted to marry Charles, but had just found out he was already married. Minnie, of course, does not believe her sister is guilty and decides to investigate on her own, especially after her experience on Corfu, when the police didn’t care much about finding the murderer. Her family also want to clear Delia’s name, but they are more concerned about their reputation than about justice.
Minnie suspects that the murder is connected to Charles’ trade in antiquities, and she also wonders if there is also a link to her late husband’s activities. She hopes her investigation will clear her husband’s name, but she’s also afraid Stephen’s accusations will be confirmed. Minnie realizes, though, that she needs to set aside her fears so she can find the murderer and save her sister. She and Stephen team up once again, as he doesn’t trust his brother to find the killer. There are many occasions in which they come close to telling each other how they really feel, only to be interrupted.
The investigation takes them into the world of the illegal antiquities trade, as they attend a private auction, hoping the killer will be there. Not to give too much away, but things do not go according to plan. I have to say, one thing that disappointed me a little in this novel was how the killer is discovered. It’s basically a lucky guess by Minnie and not based on deductive reasoning or examination of clues. And I figured out relatively early who the murderer was, unlike the previous novel, where I didn’t guess until close to the end. Part of the problem was that there was a limited number of suspects, once Delia was ruled out, and I never really suspected her in the first place.
This does not detract from my enjoyment of the novel, though. At first, I missed the Greek setting, which was one of the things I loved most about the first book, but Sullivan writes well about late 19th century London, which is a changing world. The characters travel by carriage and hansom cab, but their world also includes new inventions like the telephone. The first book has been described as a romance with a mystery in it (not surprisingly, since the author wrote historical romances before beginning this series). This one is better described as a mystery with a slow-burning romance in it.
Minnie is a wonderful character, and she prefers the freedom of life on Corfu to the stifling world of her upper-class family. She and Stephen make a great couple, even if their relationship doesn’t develop as quickly in this book as I would like. There is a resolution to the plot thread about Minnie’s late husband’s activities, but I will not say if it is the one Minnie would have wanted or not. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next book, whether Minnie stays in London or goes back to Corfu. There is also a hint that the third book might have a different setting altogether. I wonder if this will be a series like Erica Ruth Neubauer’s Jane Wunderly mysteries, with a new setting for each book.
I would recommend this book to fans of Neubauer, even though her series takes place later, in the 1920s. There is something of a similar setup, with the main character as a young widow who finds a new love interest far from home. I also recommend Sullivan’s books to fans of Tasha Alexander and Dianne Freeman. Minnie and Stephen are characters with whom I am looking forward to spending a long time, and I hope there will be many more books about their adventures.
In the previous book, Minnie had worked as a typist for Stephen Dorian, a famous mystery author, who had temporarily taken up residence in a house near hers on Corfu. They got off to a bad start with each other. At their first meeting, Minnie overheard Stephen making a disparaging remark about her at a party, in a scene that’s very reminiscent of Elizabeth’s and Darcy’s first meeting in Pride and Prejudice. In fact, the relationship between Minnie and Stephen, which is the central one in the first book, A Death on Corfu, often parallels that of Elizabeth and Darcy. In fact, as I was reading it, I kept imagining Colin Firth in the role of Stephen, even though I know he would be much too old for it now. But, unlike in Pride and Prejudice, there is no happy ending for the couple, at least in the first book. In fact, they part on bad terms, as Stephen accuses Minnie’s late husband of selling Greek antiquities on the black market, then leaves Corfu without saying goodbye.
Now that Minnie is back in London, she is staying at the home of her Aunt Agatha (yes, really!) while her aunt is traveling on the continent. She is reacquainted with her family, with mixed feelings. Minnie is delighted that they will meet Tommy, and Tommy is just as delighted to meet his cousins, but Minnie has not seen her family since her marriage, fifteen years previously, and she and her parents were never close. Her mother is just as emotionally distant as ever, and she has never approved of Minnie’s choice to get an education and to live on Corfu. Sadly, Minnie’s father has had a bad fall, which no one bothered to tell her about, and he is slowly losing his memory. He does have some lucid moments, though, and he warns Minnie of danger, but she doesn’t know if he is in his right mind or not when he issues his warning.
Minnie’s favorite sibling is her brother Samuel, who lives in India. Her oldest brother, Jack, is a Member of Parliament who is concerned mostly with his political career and wants to avoid any stains on the family’s reputation that might ruin it. He and his wife, Dolly, seem to be two of a kind at first, but Dolly eventually proves to be a friend to Minnie. Minnie’s sister, Delia, the youngest in the family, is a talented artist. She invites Minnie to a gallery opening where her painting will be exhibited.
Although Minnie never cared for London’s social whirl, she is glad to attend the opening, if only to get better acquainted with her sister, who was just a child when Minnie left England. She meets Delia’s bohemian artist friends, as well as Charles Pearson, the young man with whom Delia is in love. Charles deals in antiques as a hobby, and he and Delia keep their relationship a secret from her upper-class parents, who wouldn’t approve of Charles as a husband for their daughter.
Minnie, Delia, and Charles go on from the gallery opening to a more raucous party at the home of a baron, Lord Linden, who is an enthusiast for Greek antiquities and who flirts with Minnie. And then, to Minnie’s dismay, Stephen shows up at the party—with a beautiful woman on his arm. Stephen has a scandalous reputation because of his divorce, the details of which we don’t know for certain. Since he left Corfu, the newspapers have reported on his activities, always going to parties with different women, and Minnie admits she is hurt by what she hears. Of course, it is an awkward encounter. They are obviously still attracted to each other, but don’t know how to get past what happened on Corfu.
A fortune teller warns Minnie to beware of a man in her life, but Minnie doesn’t know if she means Stephen or the baron. Then the fortune teller tells Delia that Charles is already married. She is devastated, and they decide to leave the party early. After Minnie goes to bed, Delia decides to confront Charles at his home, only to find him murdered. She goes back home to get Minnie, and Minnie calls the police, using a telephone, which she had never used before and has to figure out.
The detective inspector assigned to the case is none other than Stephen’s estranged brother. Delia, as the one who found the body, immediately becomes the prime suspect, especially after the police hear that she had wanted to marry Charles, but had just found out he was already married. Minnie, of course, does not believe her sister is guilty and decides to investigate on her own, especially after her experience on Corfu, when the police didn’t care much about finding the murderer. Her family also want to clear Delia’s name, but they are more concerned about their reputation than about justice.
Minnie suspects that the murder is connected to Charles’ trade in antiquities, and she also wonders if there is also a link to her late husband’s activities. She hopes her investigation will clear her husband’s name, but she’s also afraid Stephen’s accusations will be confirmed. Minnie realizes, though, that she needs to set aside her fears so she can find the murderer and save her sister. She and Stephen team up once again, as he doesn’t trust his brother to find the killer. There are many occasions in which they come close to telling each other how they really feel, only to be interrupted.
The investigation takes them into the world of the illegal antiquities trade, as they attend a private auction, hoping the killer will be there. Not to give too much away, but things do not go according to plan. I have to say, one thing that disappointed me a little in this novel was how the killer is discovered. It’s basically a lucky guess by Minnie and not based on deductive reasoning or examination of clues. And I figured out relatively early who the murderer was, unlike the previous novel, where I didn’t guess until close to the end. Part of the problem was that there was a limited number of suspects, once Delia was ruled out, and I never really suspected her in the first place.
This does not detract from my enjoyment of the novel, though. At first, I missed the Greek setting, which was one of the things I loved most about the first book, but Sullivan writes well about late 19th century London, which is a changing world. The characters travel by carriage and hansom cab, but their world also includes new inventions like the telephone. The first book has been described as a romance with a mystery in it (not surprisingly, since the author wrote historical romances before beginning this series). This one is better described as a mystery with a slow-burning romance in it.
Minnie is a wonderful character, and she prefers the freedom of life on Corfu to the stifling world of her upper-class family. She and Stephen make a great couple, even if their relationship doesn’t develop as quickly in this book as I would like. There is a resolution to the plot thread about Minnie’s late husband’s activities, but I will not say if it is the one Minnie would have wanted or not. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next book, whether Minnie stays in London or goes back to Corfu. There is also a hint that the third book might have a different setting altogether. I wonder if this will be a series like Erica Ruth Neubauer’s Jane Wunderly mysteries, with a new setting for each book.
I would recommend this book to fans of Neubauer, even though her series takes place later, in the 1920s. There is something of a similar setup, with the main character as a young widow who finds a new love interest far from home. I also recommend Sullivan’s books to fans of Tasha Alexander and Dianne Freeman. Minnie and Stephen are characters with whom I am looking forward to spending a long time, and I hope there will be many more books about their adventures.
March 9, 2026
Foggy London streets, a clever heroine with something to prove, and a murder mystery I didn’t actually solve? Bravo!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emily Sullivan’s writing has such a beautiful cadence—rich, immersive, and effortlessly atmospheric. From the very first page, Sullivan makes you feel like you are in good hands. The late Victorian setting wraps around you like a velvet cloak: dark, cozy, and unmistakably British. Think corsets, carriage lamps, foggy London streets, and secrets waiting in the shadows-type vibes.
A Murder in Marylebone, the second book in the Minnie Harper series, brings Minnie, now a widow, back to London with her two children after years in Greece. Despite losing her husband and various other hardships she’s endured, Minnie retains a sense of optimism I find admirable, and a quick wit / charm than make her feel familiar. I simply adore this tenacious FMC! She’s a Victorian baddie!
I loved seeing Minnie step even more into her independence—though Stephen Dorian clearly has no intention of leaving her orbit anytime soon. And folks, I’m not mad about it. When a murder connects them both, they’re drawn together again in pursuit of the truth, and the slow burn between them is definitely burning🔥I would have loved even more, but I understand the pacing is deliberate and I’m desperate to see where it goes🤤
The mystery itself genuinely surprised me. I thought I had the “whodunnit” figured out… and I absolutely did not. Nearing the end had my heart racing, and the takedown of the murderer was deeply satisfying after that twist nearly gave me a heart attack. I love getting genuinely surprised!
It’s safe to say I’m completely hooked on Minnie and officially counting the days to the next installment of the series🔎!
Thank you to Emily Sullivan, Netgalley, and Kensington Books for this book in exchange for my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emily Sullivan’s writing has such a beautiful cadence—rich, immersive, and effortlessly atmospheric. From the very first page, Sullivan makes you feel like you are in good hands. The late Victorian setting wraps around you like a velvet cloak: dark, cozy, and unmistakably British. Think corsets, carriage lamps, foggy London streets, and secrets waiting in the shadows-type vibes.
A Murder in Marylebone, the second book in the Minnie Harper series, brings Minnie, now a widow, back to London with her two children after years in Greece. Despite losing her husband and various other hardships she’s endured, Minnie retains a sense of optimism I find admirable, and a quick wit / charm than make her feel familiar. I simply adore this tenacious FMC! She’s a Victorian baddie!
I loved seeing Minnie step even more into her independence—though Stephen Dorian clearly has no intention of leaving her orbit anytime soon. And folks, I’m not mad about it. When a murder connects them both, they’re drawn together again in pursuit of the truth, and the slow burn between them is definitely burning🔥I would have loved even more, but I understand the pacing is deliberate and I’m desperate to see where it goes🤤
The mystery itself genuinely surprised me. I thought I had the “whodunnit” figured out… and I absolutely did not. Nearing the end had my heart racing, and the takedown of the murderer was deeply satisfying after that twist nearly gave me a heart attack. I love getting genuinely surprised!
It’s safe to say I’m completely hooked on Minnie and officially counting the days to the next installment of the series🔎!
Thank you to Emily Sullivan, Netgalley, and Kensington Books for this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 6, 2026
This was a cozy, historical mystery romance. I did not read the first book in the series, but there's enough here to get the gist of things.
The pacing was good and the story had layers. I appreciated how the author wove in FMC Minnie's personal issues with her various family members with the main plot; relationships and past interactions really can color one's view of things. I liked that Minnie grew as a person.
Cleo and Tommy felt like pretty accurate representations of their ages. I enjoyed scenes with Tommy, especially. The secondary characters were pretty interesting in general, though I really hope we get more of Minnie's siblings and sister-in-law.
I can't wait for more of this series.
Thank you Kensington Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The pacing was good and the story had layers. I appreciated how the author wove in FMC Minnie's personal issues with her various family members with the main plot; relationships and past interactions really can color one's view of things. I liked that Minnie grew as a person.
Cleo and Tommy felt like pretty accurate representations of their ages. I enjoyed scenes with Tommy, especially. The secondary characters were pretty interesting in general, though I really hope we get more of Minnie's siblings and sister-in-law.
I can't wait for more of this series.
Thank you Kensington Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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