Best selling author with sales of over one million books
In the winter of 1925, a case is handed to Rupert Belmont, scion of the prestigious Belmont & Chartwell private bank, is found dead. The official heart failure. But Lord Hector Sommerton, Wolfe's Chief, suspects foul play, particularly given Belmont's recent inquiries into the bank's shadowy "Continental connections."
Wolfe, accompanied by his enigmatic assistant Fox and eager young valet Dicks, journeys to Belmont Park, a sprawling Sussex estate. Here, amidst a grieving family and a houseful of guests, Wolfe must navigate a world of old money, buried secrets, and the subtle art of deception. The killer, a master of misdirection, believes they have committed the perfect crime, leaving Wolfe to uncover the truth hidden beneath layers of discretion and family loyalty. With the victim's curiosity proving deadly, Wolfe races against time to expose a murderer who has no idea they are suspected, before the "Continental connections" claim another life.
1920's, Cozy crime, Traditional Detectives, Downton Abbey - I love them! Along with my family, my dog and my cat. At 60 I decided to write, I don't know why but suddenly the stories came pouring out, along with the characters. Eccentric Uncles, stalwart butlers, idiosyncratic servants, machinating Countesses, Fogg the dog and the hapless Major Heathcliff Lennox. Suddenly a whole world built itself upon the page and I just followed along.
So far we are on a roll with goodreads contributors all in agreement with five stars for this latest book from Karen Baugh Menuhin. They are all good, of course, but this latest addition is excellent start to finish.
Karen Menuhin does it again. the second book in her new series, Alexander Wolfe, now has me firmly a fan. love her first two series, but AW took two books before i was firmly into the series. her characters just seem to step off the page. the mysteries are fresh every book, not just a rehash of her others in a different setting. that happens with too many authors. i really didn't know the culprits, only a vague idea of one. looking forward to book three, already i have a preorder in place. if you want good solid mysteries, great characters, lovely settings, just pick up any of her books. this book ticks all those boxes.
Very exciting! Great murder investigation ! Wolfe has Fox assisting him again and his sweet, young, " valet" along to handle basics and take care of his dog! Lots of candidates for our murderer and they have closed ranks against our investigators!! The basic issue still faces the world today, when the crime and criminals are exposed. This book is set in 1925, while the Great War is still prominent in everyone's memories. The reader, however, in the final reveal of the murderer, sees the evidence and reasons for the outbreak of the second World War !
This is the best series yet and it improves as the overall arc continues. However the writing partnership works it produces taut, engaging plots and fascinating characters. But Wilf is best, obviously.
1925. Alexander Wolfe, with his assistant Fox and valet Dicks are sent to Belmont Park. To investigate the death of banking heir, 33 year old Rupert Belmont, and the bank of Belmont and Chartwell. But what will they uncover. An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its very likeable and interesting main characters. A very good second book in this enjoyable series.
I'm loving this new series! I wasn't sure after the first book, but I'm so glad I picked this up as I loved it. Alexander Wolfe is definitely growing on my and I'm getting to know Fox, although I think there's a lot more to learn there (Wolfe and Fox 😃). Dicks is so fresh faced and innocent, he evens out the serious, slightly disillusioned personas of the other too. The mystery was excellent and I liked the private banking scenario and learned a little more eugenics (it's terrifying tbh). The characters were a mix of aloof upper and sensible middle class. It took me a while to figure out whodunit and even then, it turns out, I was only partially right. If you want 1920's country house intrigue, this is definitely for you.
I really enjoyed this book, even though I am unsure about Alexander Wolfe. He is still an enigma. We know he served in the first world war and was involved with military intelligence. We believe him to be wealthy, except his house is apparently in need of some (new) furnishings and he employs very few members of staff and with a decided reluctance to employ more. So who is Alexander Wolfe? What is his story? Alongside him we have Fox. A man we know less about than Wolfe! I suppose I shall just have to read more to find out.
Amazing accurate details of these times in history!
The Belmont Affair, this book is an amazingly accurate description of the times of this era between the wars. It’s so sad that so many people around the world could possibly get involved in such a myth for humanity. The twists and turns of who done it’s, and the exposure! Awesome reading! Very strong characters! This book is a true page turner and something to really contemplate of mankind’s ability to justify wrongs.
Always enjoy this author And with good reason. Characters are well rounded. Story plot at its best. Dialog perfect. Mr. Wolfe, Mr. Fox, Dick and of course Wolf the pup! The story is a prelude to the coming of Nazism and its Master Race. The idea of its beginning from the money men to those who helped it grow is very interesting to say the least. Really enjoyed this read an recommend it highly!
I'm almost at 5 stars, but there were weaknesses here and there. I just can't remember them. I'm going to space these books far enough apart so I can look forward to more. If you require a romantic thread and predictable characters, there are thousands of books out there written to the formula. Ah, I remember one. Too much about food. It's become standard filler, as if editors demand menus at every meal. Or are writers paid by the word?
I loved the first Alexander Wolfe book, but this second one is even better! I'm looking forward to Wolfe number 3, hoping Mrs. Menuhin will not stop with the third book. I've read all the Lennox books as well and am addicted to Karen Baugh Menuhin's writing (including Miss Busby adventures). If Karen stops writing I shall be utterly bereft! WONDERFUL!
Well, I did put it down once. But when I got to the second murder, I had to keep reading. I was guessing until the culprit was revealed. A well-crafted story and very exciting. I liked the characters and their interaction and especially the “Poirot style” big reveal! I look forward to everything from this author.
I loved this book. I don't know why I started this series reading the second book, but I did. Now I am going to read the first one and pre-order the next one. I can hardly wait to start reading. Wonderful book.
A serious page turner. Read it all in one sitting. Couldn't put it down. Somewhat of surprise at the end, for lots of different reasons. Just a great way to spend a gloomy winter day.
captivating, thought provoking and filled with suspense
Once again the author has constructed a novel I had to read cover to cover without interruption. A fascinating story, one that requires some reflection. Enjoy.
I absolutely loved this book. I love the main character. He is straight to the point. Another thing I loved about the book is it stays strictly to the story. No long paragraphs of unnecessary verbiage. Can’t wait for the next one.
A very well plotted mystery. Kept me guessing until the reveal. Also a cautionary tale for our time (even though it's set in 1925). Wolfe and Fox are fascinating characters and I look forward to the next book and their further adventures.
Like other reviewers have mentioned, this 2nd story is better. It is a riveting, sometimes witty premise which is enjoyable to read. I hope the series continues as I have come to really like the characters.
I really enjoyed this book, kept me on the edge of my seat . I have read all of Karens books and have never been disappointed with them. Wolfe and Fox are both well written characters who jump out of the pages to tell you their story Loved it
I have read almost all of Mrs. Menuhin’s books and enjoyed every one! Thank you! If your looking for a good murder mystery it’s hard to walk away from any of these books, therefore be prepared to not get any housework done(:
This book was great. In my opinion it is the best of Ms Menuhin's many. The protagonists are whole characters, business like, focused but not without understated emotional lives. A pleasure to read! Well done! Roger
Special assignments are his specialty, with the help from Fox & a few more. And the latest case he’s to look into has perhaps a murder involving A private bank..& no one is who they appear to be…
Is the same thing happening again, 100 years later? Read this with your critical, analyst side, keeping in mind history repeats. Excellent mystery, well written and edited, and thought provoking.
Don't normally write reviews...but this was an excellent read. Story moved along well, the characters are interesting...as the story unfolds the future horrors which awaits the world become evident. Can't wait for the next book.