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Lies in the Lavender
Als eine Kammerzofe tot im Lavendelgarten der Herzogin von Thornfield aufgefunden wird, vermutet die Kräuterkundige und Hobbydetektivin Clara Wetherly eine Vergiftung—keinen Selbstmord.
London, 1857. Clara Wetherly pflegt ihre Heilpflanzen im Gewächshaus der Herzogin, als ein Schrei die Morgenruhe durchbricht. Rose Fletcher, die junge Kammerzofe mit ehrgeizigen Plänen, liegt tot zwischen den Lavendelbüschen, eine Teetasse neben sich und einen mysteriösen Schlüssel in der Hand.
Während Inspektor Graham Redgrave die offiziellen Aspekte untersucht—ein zurückgewiesener Liebhaber, ein gebrochenes Heiratsversprechen, eine skandalöse Schwangerschaft—bemerkt Clara etwas viel Unheilvolleres. Die nachmittäglichen "Verwirrtheits"-Episoden, die die Herzogin plagen. Der systematische Diebstahl von Juwelen bei älteren Damen in ganz Bloomsbury. Die verräterischen Zeichen von Poleiminze in Roses Teetasse.
Mit der Hilfe der beeindruckenden Damen von Bloomsbury und ihrem aufmerksamen Kater Marmalade muss Clara durch die gefährliche Welt der viktorianischen Dienstbotengeheimnisse navigieren, um einen Mörder zu entlarven, der sich in aller Öffentlichkeit versteckt. Doch als die Giftmischerin bemerkt, dass Clara ihr auf der Spur ist, wird die Herzogin selbst zum nächsten Ziel.
Während Clara sich beeilt, einen weiteren Mord zu verhindern, entdeckt sie, dass in einem Haushalt, der auf strengen Klassenlinien aufgebaut ist, die gefährlichste Person diejenige sein könnte, die am vertrauenswürdigsten erscheint. Und während ihre wachsenden Gefühle für den rätselhaften Inspektor Redgrave alles verkomplizieren, muss Clara auf ihr botanisches Wissen vertrauen—und vielleicht auf die geisterhafte Führung ihrer Großmutter—um ihren verwirrendsten Fall zu lösen.
Ein bezaubernder viktorianischer Cosy-Krimi mit Kräuterheilmitteln, subtilen übernatürlichen Elementen, einem verkuppelnden Geist und einem Kater, der immer mehr weiß, als er sollte.
London, 1857. Clara Wetherly pflegt ihre Heilpflanzen im Gewächshaus der Herzogin, als ein Schrei die Morgenruhe durchbricht. Rose Fletcher, die junge Kammerzofe mit ehrgeizigen Plänen, liegt tot zwischen den Lavendelbüschen, eine Teetasse neben sich und einen mysteriösen Schlüssel in der Hand.
Während Inspektor Graham Redgrave die offiziellen Aspekte untersucht—ein zurückgewiesener Liebhaber, ein gebrochenes Heiratsversprechen, eine skandalöse Schwangerschaft—bemerkt Clara etwas viel Unheilvolleres. Die nachmittäglichen "Verwirrtheits"-Episoden, die die Herzogin plagen. Der systematische Diebstahl von Juwelen bei älteren Damen in ganz Bloomsbury. Die verräterischen Zeichen von Poleiminze in Roses Teetasse.
Mit der Hilfe der beeindruckenden Damen von Bloomsbury und ihrem aufmerksamen Kater Marmalade muss Clara durch die gefährliche Welt der viktorianischen Dienstbotengeheimnisse navigieren, um einen Mörder zu entlarven, der sich in aller Öffentlichkeit versteckt. Doch als die Giftmischerin bemerkt, dass Clara ihr auf der Spur ist, wird die Herzogin selbst zum nächsten Ziel.
Während Clara sich beeilt, einen weiteren Mord zu verhindern, entdeckt sie, dass in einem Haushalt, der auf strengen Klassenlinien aufgebaut ist, die gefährlichste Person diejenige sein könnte, die am vertrauenswürdigsten erscheint. Und während ihre wachsenden Gefühle für den rätselhaften Inspektor Redgrave alles verkomplizieren, muss Clara auf ihr botanisches Wissen vertrauen—und vielleicht auf die geisterhafte Führung ihrer Großmutter—um ihren verwirrendsten Fall zu lösen.
Ein bezaubernder viktorianischer Cosy-Krimi mit Kräuterheilmitteln, subtilen übernatürlichen Elementen, einem verkuppelnden Geist und einem Kater, der immer mehr weiß, als er sollte.
- GenresCozy Mystery
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 1, 2026
All is not as it appears
This was a perplexing and multifaceted case for Clara and her Inspector. A bit scary as one crime of murder has been committed there is still danger afoot as mysterious happenings are still occurring at the duchess’s home. Clara must use all her knowledge and the help of her friends to get to the bottom of this mystery.
I will say I figured out who was behind this before everyone but the cat. It was a bit obvious and so from the middle on it dragged a bit for me. I still enjoyed the story. I really like the ladies of Bloomfield and their friendship and how they use the skills available to them to find out what others overlook. Promising developments on the personal front for Clara and Graham. Yay for that and about time lol. All in all a good book.
This was a perplexing and multifaceted case for Clara and her Inspector. A bit scary as one crime of murder has been committed there is still danger afoot as mysterious happenings are still occurring at the duchess’s home. Clara must use all her knowledge and the help of her friends to get to the bottom of this mystery.
I will say I figured out who was behind this before everyone but the cat. It was a bit obvious and so from the middle on it dragged a bit for me. I still enjoyed the story. I really like the ladies of Bloomfield and their friendship and how they use the skills available to them to find out what others overlook. Promising developments on the personal front for Clara and Graham. Yay for that and about time lol. All in all a good book.
June 23, 2026
Interesting premise spoiled by plot problems.
This is the third book in the series featuring a scandalously independent and resourceful Victorian lady allied with a police detective. Their relationship is developing through increasing mutual respect and aid from the grandmother ghost and superior cat. The deceased in this tale is a young servant who is unmarried and finds herself pregnant. The first question to decide is whether it is suicide. I have given three stars because the tale is based upon the plight of unmarried, employed women and their herbal recourses in the mid - nineteenth century. For me, the best bit of the book was hearing in the addendums about the social climate and the herbal mixtures. There is quite a lot of repetition and several plot problems. Examples of these are: introducing the idea the body was moved without any supporting evidence; introducing a criminal gang harrying one of the helpers without any prior story (this was mentioned in the second book, but nothing included here); not explaining why a carriage ride is needed to move between the duchess's estate and Clara's shop as they are both in the small district of London, Bloomsbury and how someone was able to get into the locked poison garden after Clara had retrieved the key. Having the characters speak in US English is another factor detracting from authenticity and credibility. I spotted the culprit before half-way through, although the author does try and distract by presenting some other possible candidates.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
This is the third book in the series featuring a scandalously independent and resourceful Victorian lady allied with a police detective. Their relationship is developing through increasing mutual respect and aid from the grandmother ghost and superior cat. The deceased in this tale is a young servant who is unmarried and finds herself pregnant. The first question to decide is whether it is suicide. I have given three stars because the tale is based upon the plight of unmarried, employed women and their herbal recourses in the mid - nineteenth century. For me, the best bit of the book was hearing in the addendums about the social climate and the herbal mixtures. There is quite a lot of repetition and several plot problems. Examples of these are: introducing the idea the body was moved without any supporting evidence; introducing a criminal gang harrying one of the helpers without any prior story (this was mentioned in the second book, but nothing included here); not explaining why a carriage ride is needed to move between the duchess's estate and Clara's shop as they are both in the small district of London, Bloomsbury and how someone was able to get into the locked poison garden after Clara had retrieved the key. Having the characters speak in US English is another factor detracting from authenticity and credibility. I spotted the culprit before half-way through, although the author does try and distract by presenting some other possible candidates.
I received a free advance review copy, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
September 23, 2025
Book Three in this delightful series continues Clara Wetherly’s story and adventures. I am happy that this book is equally as enjoyable as the other two books. (And I can’t wait for the next installment.)
This is a cozy mystery, with engaging characters, including a cat named Marmalade. In the past, I was not interested in reading books with feline contributors. However, Marmalade shares just the right amount of insights and definitely enhances the story with his antics.
I enjoyed the further expansion of the budding relationship between Clara and Inspector Graham Redgrave. They continue to learn about each other and how to deal with their own particular strengths and areas of expertise as well as learn from each other. The character development is spot on.
Clara is certainly a heroine that women can relate to and cheer on. She has studied and worked with herbs and plants most of her life and imparts her extensive knowledge to help others. I enjoyed learning more about the herbs used by women during the era so knowledgeably described by the author.
Clara also involves her network of local women who eagerly use their wits and resources to discover hidden details about possible suspects in the case. The author continues to broaden the character development of the “Ladies of Bloomsbury” as well as their friendship with Clara.
I highly recommend this book for an enjoyable read, with plenty of plot twists and secrets to keep you guessing about the villain, until the end. The title is clearly cleverly crafted.
The rating is closer to 4.5.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a cozy mystery, with engaging characters, including a cat named Marmalade. In the past, I was not interested in reading books with feline contributors. However, Marmalade shares just the right amount of insights and definitely enhances the story with his antics.
I enjoyed the further expansion of the budding relationship between Clara and Inspector Graham Redgrave. They continue to learn about each other and how to deal with their own particular strengths and areas of expertise as well as learn from each other. The character development is spot on.
Clara is certainly a heroine that women can relate to and cheer on. She has studied and worked with herbs and plants most of her life and imparts her extensive knowledge to help others. I enjoyed learning more about the herbs used by women during the era so knowledgeably described by the author.
Clara also involves her network of local women who eagerly use their wits and resources to discover hidden details about possible suspects in the case. The author continues to broaden the character development of the “Ladies of Bloomsbury” as well as their friendship with Clara.
I highly recommend this book for an enjoyable read, with plenty of plot twists and secrets to keep you guessing about the villain, until the end. The title is clearly cleverly crafted.
The rating is closer to 4.5.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 23, 2025
I, surprisingly, enjoyed this book. I'm not a huge fan of cosy mysteries, I can always guess who did it a quarter of the way in (this one not being an exception), but it was needed after reading so many battle-related novels and negative news.
I do have to say that the author needs to hire a proofreader (I'm available..lol). The quotation marks are all over the place but rarely in the right spot. This causes a bit of confusion as to what is being said out loud or as internal monologue. I saw an instance of a paragraph doubled and there was a plot point that was referenced that did not happen before the reference.
That aside, this was a lot of fun to read and I didn't want to put it down. It was an easy read, so I finished it in two days. I really enjoyed Marmalade's observations. They put a smile on my face several times. I also enjoyed the play between Clara and the Inspector. It was somewhat realistic, so I found myself cheering them on. It helped that Clara is a relatable heroine, even if she is a bit blind to some obvious things (Marmalade's opinion, with which I agree).
All in all, I highly recommend this story to put a smile on your face and lighten your mood!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
I do have to say that the author needs to hire a proofreader (I'm available..lol). The quotation marks are all over the place but rarely in the right spot. This causes a bit of confusion as to what is being said out loud or as internal monologue. I saw an instance of a paragraph doubled and there was a plot point that was referenced that did not happen before the reference.
That aside, this was a lot of fun to read and I didn't want to put it down. It was an easy read, so I finished it in two days. I really enjoyed Marmalade's observations. They put a smile on my face several times. I also enjoyed the play between Clara and the Inspector. It was somewhat realistic, so I found myself cheering them on. It helped that Clara is a relatable heroine, even if she is a bit blind to some obvious things (Marmalade's opinion, with which I agree).
All in all, I highly recommend this story to put a smile on your face and lighten your mood!
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
September 19, 2025
I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, as I have the previous books in this series. This author brings the atmosphere of almost constantly foggy, damp Victorian London to life on every page.Clara Wetherly's life revolves around her botanical shop, preparing aides to health and wellbeing, curing ailments with natural herbs and plants with the care and precision learnt from her late grandmother - who has not quite left. Clara has become indispensable in the investigations of Inspector Graham Redgrave of Scotland Yard. Her ginger cat, Marmalade oversees goings on and makes sure things go as they should, as long as proper tributes are given by the humans. I love Marmalade's observations of proceedings. In this episode, someone who doesn't have Clara's experience with poisons is causing trouble and it isn't long before Clara and "her" Inspector are investigating. The relationship between Clara and Graham is developing satisfactorily, according to Marmalade. I feel that, with the various elements that make each story interesting and provide a realistic commentary on Victorian life there will be much more to come.
Read
August 16, 2026Clara and the Ladies of Bloomsbury are back in this third story in the “Tarot and Tea Leaves Mystery” series.
Clara and Inspector Redgrave investigate the possible murder of a young servant in the home of a duchess. The two are working together more seamlessly, and their personal relationship is slowly evolving as well.
The Ladies of Bloomsbury were delightful, as always. And Clara’s cat Marmalade once again proved to be the smartest one in the room. The chance to visit with Clara’s grandmother, who appears to her in her spectral form, was also a joy.
The choice by the author to address the plight of women of a certain station who had to deal with unwanted pregnancies was impressive. Her knowledge of the subject gave the reader a glimpse into the methods used in hopes of helping these desperate women.
I thought the mystery of this one was a bit too easily discovered, which made the last part of the book seem to move a bit slower. Otherwise it was a lovely chance to revisit Clara and her friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Clara and Inspector Redgrave investigate the possible murder of a young servant in the home of a duchess. The two are working together more seamlessly, and their personal relationship is slowly evolving as well.
The Ladies of Bloomsbury were delightful, as always. And Clara’s cat Marmalade once again proved to be the smartest one in the room. The chance to visit with Clara’s grandmother, who appears to her in her spectral form, was also a joy.
The choice by the author to address the plight of women of a certain station who had to deal with unwanted pregnancies was impressive. Her knowledge of the subject gave the reader a glimpse into the methods used in hopes of helping these desperate women.
I thought the mystery of this one was a bit too easily discovered, which made the last part of the book seem to move a bit slower. Otherwise it was a lovely chance to revisit Clara and her friends.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
Unfortunately, I was disappointed by this one. As per the last 2 books, I absolutely LOVE the atmospheric style to this author’s writing, but now I’m just wondering how this was managed whilst also making an unbelievable amount of errors in the plot and the text itself.
I could overlook these errors in book 1 as it likely just needed heavier editing and by book 2 there was significant improvement, but in book 3 I’d say we’re back at square one.
It felt like this might have been rushed to be published. It’s such a shame because this really has the makings for a good cosy mystery series, but it is in desperate need of a proofreader.
I received an advance reader copy for free from booksirens.com and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I could overlook these errors in book 1 as it likely just needed heavier editing and by book 2 there was significant improvement, but in book 3 I’d say we’re back at square one.
It felt like this might have been rushed to be published. It’s such a shame because this really has the makings for a good cosy mystery series, but it is in desperate need of a proofreader.
I received an advance reader copy for free from booksirens.com and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
Considering this is the third book in said series, I was glad to know that it stood as a solid stand alone as someone who hasn't come across this author or series before.
The characters were properly introduced and plot driven, while being super descriptive without "dragging on". The switch of point of view was unique, and enjoyable as a fellow pet lover. I kept going back and forth on who I thought "did it" and possible motives! It was very easy to get caught up in Clara and The Inspector's world.
Would recommend as a fun, easy read through given the short length! Looking forward to reading through the cozy series in its entirety.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were properly introduced and plot driven, while being super descriptive without "dragging on". The switch of point of view was unique, and enjoyable as a fellow pet lover. I kept going back and forth on who I thought "did it" and possible motives! It was very easy to get caught up in Clara and The Inspector's world.
Would recommend as a fun, easy read through given the short length! Looking forward to reading through the cozy series in its entirety.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 21, 2025
Clara and Inspector Redgrave are back working together to solve a murder at the Duchess's estate. Poisonous botanicals were stolen from Clara's garden and used to harm, instead of help. Clara and the Ladies get to work to find clues and figure out who murdered Rose.
This is the third book in the Tarot & Tea Leaves Mystery. The story will keep you guessing until the end about the murder, and some other things that happen at the Duchess's estate. Of course, Marmalade has to get his two cents in on everything, and what is that light lavender-scented breeze that causes things to happen at Clara's shop…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the third book in the Tarot & Tea Leaves Mystery. The story will keep you guessing until the end about the murder, and some other things that happen at the Duchess's estate. Of course, Marmalade has to get his two cents in on everything, and what is that light lavender-scented breeze that causes things to happen at Clara's shop…
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 13, 2026
As usual a delightful tale!
I love a book that is well edited, no glaring character description mistakes from one book in the series to the next, or timeline/story changes mid book. This author writes entertaining books with likeable characters. Some may be easy to guess the culprit straight away but the stories are still entertaining enough to keep you reading and enjoying. Thank you Zia Bellamy for taking the time to make sure your books are well edited and presented. So very, very tired of so much of the slop out there, it is refreshing to find an author that cares about the work that carries their name!!
I love a book that is well edited, no glaring character description mistakes from one book in the series to the next, or timeline/story changes mid book. This author writes entertaining books with likeable characters. Some may be easy to guess the culprit straight away but the stories are still entertaining enough to keep you reading and enjoying. Thank you Zia Bellamy for taking the time to make sure your books are well edited and presented. So very, very tired of so much of the slop out there, it is refreshing to find an author that cares about the work that carries their name!!
August 8, 2026
Intriguing
The ladies maid of the Duchess of Thornfield is dead. It looks like suicide but Carla Wetherby, who maintains a locked garden with poisonous plants at the Duchess property, thinks differently. Specially when she finds out, that her key to the garden has been stolen.
Also the Duchess is experience "spells" on a regular basis during the afternoon on which she seem to "misplace" pieces of jewelry.
It seems everyone at the Duchess household is keeping secrets and it takes lots of investigation from the side of Inspector Graham Redgrav and Clara and the help of Clara's "detecting friends" to solve all the mysteries and to bring tbe murderer to justice.
I
The ladies maid of the Duchess of Thornfield is dead. It looks like suicide but Carla Wetherby, who maintains a locked garden with poisonous plants at the Duchess property, thinks differently. Specially when she finds out, that her key to the garden has been stolen.
Also the Duchess is experience "spells" on a regular basis during the afternoon on which she seem to "misplace" pieces of jewelry.
It seems everyone at the Duchess household is keeping secrets and it takes lots of investigation from the side of Inspector Graham Redgrav and Clara and the help of Clara's "detecting friends" to solve all the mysteries and to bring tbe murderer to justice.
I
September 25, 2025
Lies in the Lavender is an Excellent story about Clara and her special sleuthing cat Marmalade and how her special knowledge of plants help in investigation of poisoning. Clara with the assistance of the Ladies of Bloomsbury who gather information help Inspector Graham Redgrave in an investigation.
But can they find all the pieces of this puzzle and find out what has been happening and get the truth?
Superb book and series that I highly recommend you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But can they find all the pieces of this puzzle and find out what has been happening and get the truth?
Superb book and series that I highly recommend you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 4, 2025
Such a great book! Clara is an amazing character and I love the group of investigating women who help her solve the crimes, as well as meddling in the romance development between Clara and the detective. Even her cat and ghost join in!
October 8, 2025
This is book three of the series but the first I have read. Now I must go read the others. This book has everything. A good murder mystery that keeps you on your toes. Wonderful characters and a slew of suspects. Also a lovely budding romance.
October 17, 2025
This is such a good series. I really enjoy the characters, especially Marmalade. I will admit I knew how did it quite early in the book, I still enjoyed watching the characters figure out the clues.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2025
This was a fun easy read. The cat, Marmalade adds to the fun. It is a cozy murder mystery with a ghost. There is a romance blossoming between Clara and the inspector. I have also enjoyed learning about herbs and plants. I've read all the books and looking forward to the next.
September 18, 2025
This is the third book in the series and another very good book. Without our modern conveniences crime fighting was so very different in 1857. It's good to see the women are still helping Clara with the mystery as well as Marmalade. The poisonings once again are a central part of the story for Clara's assistance. There is a definite attraction developing between Graham and Clara but moves so slow back then. I looking forward to the next book.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
Ik zag deze voorbij komen bij Kobo en direct maar gelezen. Echt leuke boeken.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews