The Butler

by Clare Mackintosh

From the New York Times -bestselling A glamorous French villa. A carefully curated guest list. A body in the pool.

The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter—with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler—has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.

Baxter's latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface . . .

When one of the guests is found dead in the villa's glittering pool, the unflappable Baxter must assist the gendarmes in determining who's responsible. With some standing to gain and others motivated to take it away, fingers are pointed in all directions. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing—but what if he too becomes a target?

Genres: Mystery, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Adult, Crime

208 pages, Paperback

Expected publication June 16, 2026

About the author

Welcome to my Goodreads profile! Whether you're new to my work, or a hard-core fan, it's lovely to see you here. My latest book is OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES, the third book in my DC Ffion Morgan series. Like THE LAST PARTY and A GAME OF LIES, this is designed to be read as a standalone, but if you've followed Ffion and Leo from the beginning, I think you'll love seeing where OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES takes them.

If this is the first time we're meeting, welcome! In addition to the books above, I'm the author of I LET YOU GO, I SEE YOU, LET ME LIE and HOSTAGE - page-turning thrillers that have sold more than three million copies across 40 countries, and hit bestseller lists including The Sunday Times and The New York Times. I also wrote the emotional rollercoaster, AFTER THE END: a family drama about an impossible choice that threatens to tear a couple apart. It's the most personal novel I've written, and I've loved hearing from readers who have connected with it. In 2024 I released a memoir, I PROMISE IT WON'T ALWAYS HURT LIKE THIS, based on my experiences of navigating grief following the loss of my son eighteen years ago. It's a book to offer hope when you feel as though there's none to be had; a book to give to a friend when you don't know what to say.

Coming in 2026 is what I'm boldly going to tell you is my best book yet... a standalone thriller with a twist that'll knock your socks off! It's called IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK, and I would love you to add it to your shelf right now!

I love connecting with my readers, and there are plenty of ways you can get a sneak peek at what's going on behind the scenes. My Facebook group offers reading recommendations and exclusive extras to members (just search online for 'The Clare Mackintosh Book Club'), or if it's general chit chat you're after, please do follow me on Instagram, where I go to avoid writing, and to share snippets of my life in rural Wales, complete with three spaniels and Pete the goat. I'm also on TikTok, much to the dismay of my three teenagers...

* * *

With over three million copies of her books sold worldwide, number one bestseller Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of I Let You Go, which was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller and the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015. It also won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year in 2016. She has since written seven more bestselling novels. Together, her books have been translated into 40 languages and spent more than sixty-five weeks in The Sunday Times bestseller lists.

Clare is patron of the Silver Star Society, a charity based at the John Radcliffe hospital in Oxford, which supports parents experiencing high-risk or difficult pregnancies.

* * *

For more information find Clare on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or TikTok at @ClareMackWrites

#ILetYouGo #ISeeYou #LetMeLie #AftertheEnd #HostageBook #TheLastParty #AGameOfLies #IPromise #OtherPeoplesHouses #ItsNotWhatYouThink

Reviews

[Christina C · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Butler by Clare Mackintosh is a smart, fast-paced murder mystery that makes for a perfect quick read. Set in France, the story has an elegant, slightly eerie atmosphere that adds to the intrigue and keeps the pages turning. Mackintosh wastes no time pulling the reader into the mystery, and the tight pacing makes it ideal for reading in one or two sittings.

[Jeanie ~ Fables.and.fur · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written mystery with some darkly funny moments. I’ve enjoyed every novel from Clare Mackintosh.

The Butler would make for a great movie. Giancarlo Esposito is who I pictured as Baxter. The core of the story is a who-dunnit with the rich behaving badly, but the author puts her own spin on it and I loved it! I’m looking forward to listening to the audiobook when it’s released. The ending does leave it open for a sequel or series and I sure hope so! Highly recommend.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

First. Clare Mackintosh is already publishing another book next month. How? Wow! Talented.

OK. So The Butler is a short and sweet, fast-paced murder mystery that takes place in Southern France during the Cannes film festival.

The Butler (Baxter) is definitely the main character and narrator of this well-written book. The scenes and characters (yes it reads like a script - cue Netflix) are descriptive. There were times when my senses were activated: seeing a dress, hearing an argument, smelling good food being served.

As the "murder" was introduced, I found myself in the usual position - questioning who did it? when? why? And as usual, the answer came at the very end. Which by the way left room for a sequel. Yeah!

The maid in the dining room with poison
The ex in the car with a tire iron
The girlfriend in the bedroom...
Or was it a ghost? Or the Butler?

This book is due out mid June 2026. A not too heavy mystery thriller that's easy to read and follow.

A special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the very talented, prolific author for the advanced copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.

[Leah Cherokee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up.

It's a sweltering summer morning in Cannes; the South of France is glimmering with locals and tourists alike for the annual Film Festival, and a butler has just arrived to Villa Sérénité to prepare it for his forthcoming guests. From perfectly folded bed linens to ice-chilled seafood atop towers of silver and the finest Champagne a constant flow into spotless crystal glasses, everything must be perfect for Alec Prescott--guest of honor.

And fortunately for Mr. Prescott, Baxter has decades of service under his belt and is most suitably prepared for anything the raucous group of guests may bring.

Well, almost anything.

I was initially intrigued by "The Butler" because I read "I Let You Go" by Clare Mackintosh years ago and remember it as a standout thriller, even now. I knew going into this cozy novella that this would be an entirely different reading experience, but Mackintosh's rich, descriptive writing still carried this well. There's little left untouched in the cozy mystery/butler character sub-genre and therefore hard to write something truly standout, but what Mackintosh has done here is create a sophisticated, nicely-flowing story with a good payoff in the end. Great as a short palette cleanser before your next big read, "The Butler" has a gorgeous setting and a main character to adore.

*Many thanks to Podium Publishing & NetGalley for my advanced review copy of this title!*

[Jardana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short read! I love those closed door mystery, y’know the classic Agatha Christie vibe? This is it!

I believe this the 2nd or 3rd book I picked up by this author, and I can say wholeheartedly that i absolutely love their writing style. The beginning was so descriptive, it felt like I was in there myself. I was so enamored by the details that I didn’t even bother trying to solve the mystery myself, just let it flow the way it was going and was not disappointed. Lowkey, would love to read more of these types with Baxter and Red!!


Thank you NetGalley, Podium Publishing, and Clare Mackintosh for this ARC 🫶🏽

[Cin (cinsnextchapter) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVED Baxter as a main character and can’t wait to see if he and Red team up again for another mystery. I kept picturing him as a cross between Hercule Poirot and Niles from The Nanny, which made him even more fun to read. This was a quick, suspenseful story that I finished in just a couple of sessions. The Butler is a proper whodunnit, with every character having a motive and no shortage of suspects.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may not be the longest book in the world, coming in at just around the 200 page mark, but in the hands of Clare Mackintosh, they are pages packed with mystery and misdeeds. Family feuds, fraught friendships, oh, and the small matter of a murder. The stars of this show, Butler for hire, Baxter, and local pickpocket, Red, who, some might say ill advisedly, he takes under his wing. That is, Baxter comes to find he has a use for Red's particular talents at the Prescott family and friends holiday, arranged by patriarch Alec Prescott, to celebrate the twenty first birthday of sole son, and heir, Carter.

Even though this is a novella, rather than a full length novel, it has all the twists and tension that I have grown to expect, and love, from a Clare Mackintosh novel. She sets the tone of the book from the very beginning, delivering. a perfect sense of place, and of the characters we are likely to meet, starting with Baxter, the man who will guide us through the course of the book. I really liked Baxter as a character. Whilst he comes across as somewhat officious, you quickly learn this is just his years of training and the very thing that makes him not only the perfect Butler, but the perfect narrator. He sees all and acts accordingly, but never in a way that feels intrusive to either the guests, or us as voyeurs of the tensions that are sure to arise.

Then there is Red. She is sassy and strong willed, and from the moment Baxter intercepts her as she plies her trade down in the town, you know that there is going to be something magical happening here. Sure, she is rough around the edges, but if you were to think of her as a female version of Aladdin, without the magical lamp and cave of secrets, you get the feeling for the kind of personality in play here. She is stealing to survive, but there is a heart of gold in there really. Red and Baxter make for a perfect duo and I really do hope that this is the start of something more as they work brilliantly together, as does the transient nature of Baxter's role as Butler via agency work rather than of a fixed abode, as it were.

As for the party, and the tensions between the Prescotts and their guests, well, you can feel the animosity seep from the page, particularly between the Alec Prescott and his former wife, Sylvie, and Alec's new partner, Kaitlyn, who, age if not quite personality wise, has more in common with Carter than she does Alec ... You can see where this is all leading. But that is just a snapshot of the tension within the party, and with money and misogyny being a key focus of the weekend, everything is there to guarantee a pretty intense few days between them all.

When the inevitable happens, probably two thirds of the way through the story, a brilliant use of misdirection, and a cast of characters who all have reasons for potentially wanting to do the dirty deed, really does keep the guilty party hidden right until the perfect moment for the reveal. Sure, the clue are all there and you could, as Baxter tries to, puzzle it all out for yourself, but the fun is in the reading and with pitch perfect pacing, there really is no need to race ahead. A fun but brief read that fans of Clare Mackintosh will really enjoy.

[Leonie Hinch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Podium and Clare Mackintosh for my ARC of The Butler in exchange for an honest review.

This was a fantastic, short read that packed a punch despite being almost bite sized!

I love Clare Mackintosh’s books, she writes fantastic crime thrillers and I was worried how this would measure up being somewhat shorter.

But I should not have feared. The Butler was very enjoyable, I loved the main character Baxter and his traditional ways and the contrast he set against characters like Red who was his polar opposite. This was a classic locked door mystery which kept me guessing, there’s lots of other mini mysteries along the way and overall it was just really enjoyable! I look forward to the next one in what promises to be an addictive new series.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I hope this is a new series that Mackintosh is planning to write! I loved Baxter and the cast of characters—especially Baxter’s quiet confidence, his ability to remain unruffled by the chaos around him, and, at the same time, his soft spot for Red.

I also thought she did a particularly good job with the dysfunctional, wealthy group staying at the house. The way they interacted, and the fact that they all had believable motives to be the killer, was very well thought out.

My one criticism is the length of the book. I read it in one sitting in under two hours. Her other books are typically much longer. While it was a fun, fast-paced read, the pacing felt a bit off after the murder. I would have loved more investigation and discovery. As well as more interaction between Baxter and Red as they worked to solve the crime.

Overall, I absolutely love Clare Mackintosh and would definitely recommend this book. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!

[Gabrielle Stoller · Rating 2 out of 5]

thank you Netgalley for an advance review copy!

with reading it digitally, I either didn't know or forgot it was just over 200 pages. while some books need less, I feel this book needed more! So much build up with getting to know characters for the ultimate mystery/whodunnit reveal to fall very very flat.

it was a very Poirot lite type of book.....and that was disappointing

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC copy - Audiobook via NetGalley
A cosy little murder mystery that will make a great series. Can’t wait to keep reading…

[Delaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m surprised I enjoyed this as much as I did given the main character and sole POV (third person, tho) is centered around a man and I tend to prefer novels surrounding women. But it was a fun read! I enjoyed the mystery as well as Baxter. I would definitely read more books if this turns into a series. The story was quick and an easy read, with enough characters to keep you entertained but not so many that it was overwhelming. Would recommend!

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc

[Vix S · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic little 200 page snack of a whodunnit which made me very glad not to be an obnoxious billionaire. Looking forward to more of Baxter’s adventures across the continent!

[Nilufer Ozmekik · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of those irresistible, one-sitting reads — a classic locked-room, whodunit-style mystery in the grand tradition of Agatha Christie, written by one of my favorite thriller authors. Clare Mackintosh delivers a clever, fast-paced novella that promises pure entertainment, and it absolutely delivers. I was completely hooked from start to finish, and I already know I want more adventures with Baxter and the delightful little thief Red, who turned out to be two of the most charming and lovable characters in the book.

Because this is a novella, it feels quite different from Mackintosh’s darker, more psychologically layered novels. You won’t find the same deep emotional trauma or unsettling mind games that define her full-length thrillers, but that’s actually part of the charm here. This story is a joyful tribute to classic British mysteries, very much in the spirit of Poirot and Miss Marple — right down to the satisfying “everyone in the room” style reveal at the end. You get the fun of trying to spot the killer, guessing the motive, and soaking in the glamorous setting of a luxurious villa in Cannes… all while secretly hoping you won’t end up floating face-down in the pool or dodging burglars in the night.

The story centers on Baxter, a dignified, highly professional British butler with twenty-five years of experience, who now works short-term assignments across Europe after losing his long-term post — a loss that shattered not just his job, but his entire sense of home and stability. When the story opens, Baxter is preparing Villa Sérénité in Cannes during the chaos of the film festival, when the city is overflowing with celebrities, tourists, and, unfortunately, criminals eager to prey on wealthy visitors. With luxury villas becoming prime targets for burglary, tension hangs in the air even before anything goes wrong.

To help manage the villa and its demanding guests, Baxter hires Miriam and Thierry. The property has been rented by wealthy businessman Alec Prescott, who is hosting a birthday celebration for his son, Carter. But Baxter has another secret reason for being there: his agency has quietly asked him to keep an eye on Alec’s finances, which appear to be dangerously unstable. From the very first pages, we know someone will end up dead in the swimming pool — and as the simmering hostilities between the guests become clearer, it doesn’t take long to see that several of them might have good reason to want that death.

Alec arrives with his much younger girlfriend, Kaitlyn, who brings a revelation that sends shockwaves through the entire group. His ex-wife Sylvie is there, along with their glamorous friends — film producer Damian and his actress wife Francesca. Carter joins them with his girlfriend Jade, an aspiring actress who is also studying law, adding yet another layer of ambition and secrets to an already volatile gathering.

The atmosphere inside the villa grows thick with tension — the kind you could cut with a knife. Long-buried resentments, lies, and betrayals bubble to the surface, threatening to destroy relationships that have lasted for years. When someone finally dies, there is no shortage of suspects, each with something to gain. The mystery isn’t just who the killer is, but whether Baxter himself can survive, as he slowly realizes that he may be in danger too.

Overall, this is a delightfully fast and entertaining read, with twists that are clever even when they’re a little predictable — just the way classic whodunits should be. I can never resist the charm of a locked-room mystery, especially when it’s done in such a playful, stylish Agatha Christie-inspired way, and Clare Mackintosh pulls it off beautifully. If you love cozy mysteries, whodunits, or are already a fan of the author, this one is an absolute treat.

A very huge thank you to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment / Podium Publishing for sharing this intriguing thriller novella’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

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[Ceecee · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the sun rises in the hills above Cannes, casting its vivid glow on the luxury villas, all is quiet after the previous nights film festival celebrations. A taxi makes its way towards Villa Sérénité, its solitary passenger is Baxter, an outstanding Butler with 25 years experience. His arrival is perhaps a harbinger of what’s to come as the house is in total disarray as the caretakers have clearly not been doing a lot of care. They are unceremoniously sacked and Baxter swings into action, preparing for the arrival of Alec Prescott and his party, there to celebrate his son‘s birthday. However, despite the beauty of the setting and the fabulous weather, dark clouds are on the horizon as the celebrations descend into bickering backstabbing and way worse. Baxter is determined that he will get to the bottom of what’s going on, Hercule Poirot style.

This is a very enjoyable read from Clare Mackintosh and proof positive you don’t need 400 pages to create an entertaining novel in which the author manages to cram a lot in!

First of all, the vibe is very Christiesque, it follows the ‘rules’ in every way even down to the retro cover which I really like. As in any atmospheric golden age novel you have plenty of suspects because as to whether anyone actually likes the victim is a moot question. Assembled at the luxury Villa are a bunch of liars and cheats, they have many reasons to dislike each other which is masked with a lot of insincerity and in addition, many of them have a multitude of secrets. The characters are mostly unlikeable which obviously makes for a much more delicious read and I find that I can’t be that sorry with the way that things pan out!

Now as for Baxter, he’s fantastic. I love his amusing thoughts which alleviate the obvious escalating tension between the guests. He’s capable, unflappable and funny. During the course of his stay in Cannes, he meets Red, now she’s an interesting one, giving the author of plenty of scope there!

The plot is good, it’s creative and it’s all told at a brisk pace. It’s a quick and very compelling, satisfying read.

Overall, when you want to read more about Baxter and Red then you’re obviously onto a winner! Recommended to fans of both the author and the genre.

With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Podium Publishing for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.

[Pav S. (pav_sanborn_bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A luxurious gathering in the South of France turns sinister when a guest is found dead in the pool. Baxter, an experienced butler at Villa Sérénité, faces unexpected chaos amid wealthy attendees, including an ex-wife and Hollywood elites...

Welcome to the French Riviera, where the drama is as vibrant as the stunning scenery! This suspenseful and enjoyable read takes us on a journey alongside a butler with unwavering moral principles.

The main character, Baxter, remains as cool as a cucumber under pressure. He’s not only clever and fun but also incredibly likable. We also get to see his compassionate side, which adds depth to the narrative. I love how he interacts with a more sinister character, bringing out the best in her. Alongside them, we meet a few other guests who expect Baxter to ensure their safety. However, as the plot thickens, it seems he might become a target himself. You’ll encounter a mix of characters—some you will adore and others you might want to forget. As Baxter and his team embark on unraveling a murder mystery, you’ll find yourself holding your breath in anticipation. But what happens when Baxter's own team comes under suspicion? You’ll have to read on to find out!

The events and setting of this book feel intimate yet claustrophobic. In such a tight-knit circle, it doesn’t take long to point fingers, yet each guest seems to have a motive for murder. The author skillfully keeps you guessing, making it hard to figure out the perpetrator until the very end. As the story unfolds, you will find yourself second-guessing your assumptions and wondering what clues you may have missed. This clever murder mystery is truly engaging, and I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for Baxter!

If you enjoy soapy drama, amateur sleuthing, dark humor, and vivid descriptions of landscapes and delectable food, this book will undoubtedly catch your interest. This character-driven locked-room mystery resonates with anyone who appreciates the subtle threads of a luxurious lifestyle. This glamorous yet deadly short read will keep you up at night! Just remember to follow the money, and you should be just fine! Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to double-check our will; there better not be any amendments! Ha!

Thank you, Podium Entertainment and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clare Mackintosh, The Butler, Podium Entertainment, June 2026.

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

The Butler sets a pace that is quite different from Clare Mackintosh’s previous novels, and I had to adapt to the pace and tone. Once having done so, I was impressed with this writer’s ability to craft an engaging narrative in a new (to me) style. The butler, Baxter, has recently had to put himself on the market for short term engagements. This makes him vulnerable to his agent and her demands – he must provide information to her on his current employer, Alec Prescott. A glamourous setting in a mansion, complete with swimming pool, in Cannes provides the background to intrigue, infidelity, and eventual murder. Baxter, warming to his Hercule Poirot role investigates and solves the mystery.

Baxter’s arrival at the villa is preceded with excellent characterisation – he is a figure to whom I immediately warmed – and a jolt to the senses: noisy music, broken glass, dirty dishes, upturned furniture, and a couple dancing on an expensive table. Each character is introduced with their public and personal personas developed to provide the maximum appeal – or its opposite. The young characters’ development in the short time they are at the villa – Jade’s secret and Carter Prescott’s reaction, Red’s arrogant pickpocketing and her vulnerability and even Kaitlyn’s stereotypical attraction to an older man – is contrasted with the jaded presence of the older inhabitants. Interaction between possible competitors is often comic at the same time as cutting. Clues to the murderer are provided with Agatha Christie seeming ambiguity. However, like Christie, Mackintosh is honest in her cues. Likewise, the plotting is smart, the character development works so that challenging characters logically progress to those for whom there is sympathy, and the solution is sound.

I always enjoy Clare Mackintosh’s work, and The Butler is no different. It is an enjoyable read and a successful diversion from earlier works. This novel provides the possibility of exciting teamwork between Baxter and Red, which I hope will be an outcome of their sympathetically wrought relationship in The Butler.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read nothing to suggest this is the first book in a new series, but after reading it, I’ve got my fingers crossed. The ending, too, is suggestive of things that may come, so that gives me hope as well. The star of the show, a professional butler named Baxter, is an intriguing character I truly want to read more about.

Baxter, who uses no first name, had a quarter of a century’s highly successful experience in the industry, but his most recent gig ended in a bit of a disaster. He found work at an agency, and he’s just been hired to cater to guests at Villa Serenite in southern France, not far from the Cannes Film Festival. The host for the week is wealthy Alec Prescott, and guests include his current much-younger love interest Kaitlin as well as his ex-wife Sylvie (now that’s a recipe for disaster if ever I read one). Curiously, at least to Baxter, is that his employer, a Russian lady, asks him to see what he can find out about Alec’s finances – something foreign to him, a man who prides himself on never snooping while butlering (hmmm, is that a word)? But he’s curious; whatever is she hoping he’ll find?

Guests also include Alec’s grown son, Carter, and his current squeeze Jade. The son is, for the most part, being financially supported by his father – a rather tenuous situation given his father’s irascible temperament. Carter is accompanied by gorgeous young thing Jade, who he introduces to his father for the first time (or, as Baxter suspects, perhaps not).

Put all these and a couple of other guests with interesting backgrounds, and readers quickly suspect all will not exactly go well. And for sure they don’t – starting with bickering and nitpicking and ending with murder. Who gets bumped off, how, why and who did it I’ll of course not reveal, but suffice it to say it’s quite a romp to learn the answers. Amid all of it, Baxter manages to do his job in fine fettle with a smile and a “Certainly, Madam” coming from his lips. He’s a pro, no doubt about it, but he’s also pretty darned good at figuring out a mystery. It’s why I’m eager to see him again – and why I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to sample what I hope is the first installment by way of a pre-release copy. Loved it!

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Butler, is the first book in a new series by Clare Mackintosh. The lead character is Baxter, a butler who is very professional and observant.

This short novel is set in South of France, Villa Sérénité in Cannes. Baxter has spent twenty-five years catering to the ultra-wealthy with a spotless reputation, but Alec Prescott’s post-Cannes Film Festival party is a different beast entirely.

The guest list is a full of suspects, all with motives, Alec, the wealthy patriarch, is surrounded by: Sylvie (the ex-wife), who is having a secret affair with Damian. Kaitlyn (the “lady friend”), Faking a pregnancy to secure her future. Damian (the producer) & Francesca (the washed-up actress): A couple whose professional and personal lives are crumbling. Carter (the son): About to be cut off financially by Alec and Jade (the son’s girlfriend): A law student with a secret side job that Alec—and only Alec—knows about.

The tension breaks after a disastrous night where Alec returns drunk following a fight over Kaitlyn’s phantom pregnancy. The next morning, Alec is found at the bottom of the villa’s pool. Because Alec managed to offend almost everyone, from pinching the maid, Miriam, to threatening his son’s livelihood. There is no shortage of suspects and even the chef, Thierry, had a reason to kill him.

What makes the investigation unique is Baxter’s partnership. While the gendarmes do their work, Baxter teams up with “Red,” a teenage pickpocket he caught in town. I really enjoyed the novel and look forward to another book in this series,

“A good butler sees everything and says nothing—but when the butler starts talking, the whole house of cards comes falling down.”
The characters are well developed and although there are plenty of characters they are easy to distinguish. Even the staff have deep layers; Baxter himself is haunted by a past dismissal after falling in love with a former male employer.

This was an amusing whodunnit that kept me guessing.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Podium Entertaining for supplying this novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

"A good butler should save his employer's life at least once a day." (Jasper Fforde)

Color me entertained.

Clare Mackintosh opens the door to the marble-floored rich and famous. We'll hobnob with the well-heeled in the South of France during the Cannes Film Festival. Alec Prescott has leased the breathtaking Villa Serenite with its jawdropping views of the countryside. Somehow Mother Nature resides here as well dropping her sunset across the French skies.

Baxter, a highly efficient butler who resides in London, has taken the call to preside over the upcoming festivities. Every fork is aligned and every drink is refreshed in a nano second. Nothing moves out of his line of sight. But it occurs that a break-in has happened during the night. Alec and his party people are on edge even after the police are called. Strangely, nothing has been taken even with a Porsche in the garage. But that is all about to change.

Baxter rises early only to find a body floating face down in the pool. Naturally, all are sequestered to the villa after the police are called. It's obvious that one of these guests is the killer. Each appears to have a motive. Each had access to this individual.

The Butler doesn't have the intensity of Knives Out, but it does have a buzzin' Agatha Christie tinge going for it. Baxter should have an upturned moustache like Poirot though. It is through Baxter that we will come to find the guilty one. Mackintosh even throws in a mischievous Charles Dickens-like character named Red to mix things up a bit.

The Butler is a rapid read with only 200 pages and short, direct chapters. I would expect that Mackintosh has just gotten our toes wet in that luxurious pool. The closure of The Butler promises that Baxter will be assigned to another butlering gig very soon. Our eyes are cast in the direction of a spacious yacht in the distance. I'm onboard. I'll make room for ya, too.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Podium Publishing and to the talented Clare Mackintosh for the opportunity.

[Cleopatra Pullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Butler by Clare Mackintosh is a sharply crafted, closed‑circle mystery set against the glittering backdrop of the South of France. The premise is irresistible: a glamorous villa, a volatile mix of wealthy guests, and a body discovered floating in the pool. Into this chaos steps Baxter, a butler with twenty‑five years of impeccable service and a talent for seeing everything while saying very little. When a week of celebration at Villa Sérénité spirals into suspicion and secrets, Baxter finds himself assisting the gendarmes, and perhaps becoming a target himself.

What makes the novel sing is Clare Mackintosh’s trademark skill. I’ve always loved her books, and her talent is evident here: the plot is fiendish without ever feeling overworked, and the cast is full of sharply drawn personalities. Baxter, in particular, is a triumph; calm, observant, quietly witty, and the kind of character you immediately want more of.

The extravagant setting is another delight. Clare Mackintosh leans into the sun‑drenched luxury of Cannes, using the villa’s opulence and the guests’ excesses to heighten both the tension and the humour. There’s a thread of observational comedy throughout, dry, knowing, and perfectly timed, that adds warmth without undercutting the mystery.

If anything, the only drawback is that the book is shorter than my preferred length. At just over 200 pages, it’s a brisk, highly enjoyable read, but I would happily have lingered longer with Baxter, the investigation, and the wonderfully messy cast of suspects. The story is tight and satisfying, but my preference is for books that are just that bit longer.

Still, this is a stylish, clever, and thoroughly entertaining whodunnit. With its luxe setting, memorable lead, and classic locked‑door structure, The Butler is another strong entry from Clare Mackintosh, and a promising start to what could become a very addictive series.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Butler is the first book in a new series of the same name, by Clare Mackintosh and I look forward to reading more books in the series.

Baxter, the main character, is a freelance butler and his latest job is in a villa outside Cannes. The owner of the villa has hired him to take care of the visiting guests, a group of rich family and friends gathered to attend the famous film festival, and celebrate the birthday of the son of the man with the money. When one of the group winds up dead, Baxter and his coworkers decide they must investigate.

I liked Baxter as a main character, we got a bit of his backstory through memories at certain points, which made him more of a real person, not just the stereotype of a butler.

The mix of characters was interesting and left no shortage of suspects. Add to that the fact that there was a group of burglars in the area, and Baxter and his companions had their work cut out for them.

The build up is a bit slow, as the death doesn’t take place until near the middle of the novel, but I didn’t feel like it dragged at any time. I actually liked that it gave me time to get to know the characters and their possible motivations.

The only problem I had with the book was the occasional switch from Baxter’s third person point of view to a more omniscient one, I think at times it was meant to be Baxter’s internal thoughts but it didn’t always come across that way . It felt like a narrator breaking into the story to set a scene or fill in details about what went on between scenes. I found these sections somewhat distracting, they didn’t seem to fit the rest of the story.

Overall though, I quite enjoyed The Butler. It was a quick entertaining read, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Thio Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baxter left his previous position under less-than-perfect circumstances and desperately needs this post… even if it means compromising his ethics. Burglary and murder, however, are more than he bargained for.

If you want to know whether the butler did it in The Butler, you’ll have to read it yourself. I will say that the setting is magnificent. Clare Mackintosh brings the sun, sea, and luxury to life — a little window into the lives of the ultra-rich and the resilient souls who cater to their whims and moods.

This crowd — Alec, Damian, Sylvie, Francesca, Kaitlyn, Carter, and Jade — has the entitlement, self-indulgence, and misogyny well-covered…yet, some of them are almost endearing. When one of their number is thinned out, two actually mourn the loss.

Baxter, the butler, Thierry, the chef, Miriam, the housekeeper, and Red, a pickpocket turned maid, live in another world — one filled with personal failings, quiet heartbreak, opportunistic predation, and financial stress. Theirs is the heart of this story — where compassion, love, loyalty, and diligence mingle with suspicion.

Mackintosh’s style is sharp and elegant; the mystery, brazen. In hindsight, the solution feels obvious — the clues were always there. I just got caught up in the contrasts, the private dramas, and the amateur sleuthing. They were worthy distractions — a soap opera on the Riviera.

The Butler is as well-furnished, textured, and rich in detail as any luxury villa. If you enjoy the finer things in life — a good puzzle, a grisly murder, maybe some wine or chocolate, and a view, this is for you!

Thank you, Podium Entertainment, for the opportunity to read The Butler. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am writing this review voluntarily.

[Hope Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Butler is a sleek, sun-soaked murder mystery set among the ultra-wealthy at a glamorous French villa just after Cannes. There is a body, there are secrets, and there is plenty of champagne. It is the kind of setup that practically begs you to read it in one sitting with something sparkling in hand.

For me, it leaned a little too cozy. I tend to like my crime fiction darker and more intense, and this one keeps things polished and controlled. No one is exactly twirling a mustache, but the tension never quite spirals into delicious chaos either. I kept waiting for it to go just a bit more feral.

Baxter is both wonderfully described and slightly underdeveloped at the same time, which is an odd combination but somehow true. He is intriguing, observant, and clearly hiding depths. Yet I finished the book still wanting more from him. That said, I genuinely loved his growing self-awareness as he essentially appoints himself detective. Watching the butler quietly size up the guests and think, “Well, clearly I must solve this,” was one of the most entertaining parts of the story. Amateur sleuth energy looks very good in formalwear.

I do wish this had been expanded into a more developed novel. The setting, the dynamics, and the characters all felt like they had more to give. There is a richness here that could easily have supported additional layers of tension and backstory.

Overall, I enjoyed the central mystery and the clever unraveling of secrets. It is a polished, engaging read with strong series potential. I am definitely looking forward to the next installment, mostly because I want to spend more time getting to know Baxter. He deserves a little more spotlight, and I suspect he has far more up his impeccably tailored sleeve.

[Jayme C (Brunetteslikebookstoo) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upstairs, Downstairs

Baxter is a well-mannered butler with 25 years of service and a spotless reputation. He sees everything but says nothing, he is on hand when you need him but is never in the way, and he has perfected the non-committal smile.

He has also NEVER run into any issues catering to his ultrawealthy clients- UNTIL NOW.

Baxter's latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, in France, where Alec Prescott is hosting a birthday party for his 21 year old son.

In attendance will be his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, his son’s new girlfriend, and two Hollywood hotshots, along with Baxter and his staff.

When one of the guests is found floating in the villa's glittering pool, Baxter must assist the gendarmes with their investigation.

EVERYONE is hiding something.

EVERYONE has a motive.

And, now that SOMEONE feels threatened by Baxter as he closes in…

This 208 page COZY mystery is the first in a new series by the talented Clare Mackintosh. I haven’t heard if they will all be novella length but the last chapter sets the scene for his next assignment and for a certain relationship to continue building.

I was a big fan of the TV series Downton Abbey and enjoy the dynamics of Upstairs/Downstairs stories but I was a bit underwhelmed by this one. It’s certainly not bad-but it won’t be memorable either.

Since I am not a fan of reading book series in general, and I have grown tired of locked room mysteries-it is probably not a series that I will continue following-but don’t let me dissuade you from reading it, if you enjoy the genre!

Will Marilyn and DeAnn be reading the next installment? Be sure to watch for their reviews to find out!

AVAILABLE June 16, 2026

Thank You to Podium Publishing for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.

[Claire Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been a huge fan of Clare's since her very first book and she never disappoints! I'm so grateful for this eARC for The Butler, which I read in two short sittings and thoroughly enjoyed.

This murder mystery is set in the south of France and is full of rich people behaving questionably on their holidays. Baxter The Butler has just been hired for another job, and when he arrives at the French villa, Villa Sérénité, it is in complete disarray. He wastes no time in taking matters into his own hands, hiring his own staff and preparing it for the Prescott family's arrival.

The Prescotts, Alec and Sylvie, are celebrating their son Carter's 21st birthday, but Alec and Sylvie aren't together anymore. Both Alec and Carter's girlfriends have joined them, along with two friends who are Hollywood 'hot shots'. Fame, wealth, relationships... what could go wrong?

We know about the murder early on in this short story, so watching it all unfold was really fun. Baxter becomes an amateur detective for more reasons than one, and takes on local pickpocket Red to help him uncover the truth at Villa Sérénité, all while maintaining a high level of service and trying to avoid upsetting any of his guests.

It was gripping story with plenty of funny moments and I'm really excited to see/hear/read what comes next for this series! Clare is such a talented writer and whether it's thrillers or cosy mysteries, she nails it every time!

Thank you so much NetGalley and Podium Entertainment / Podium Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.

The Butler will be out on 16th June, 2026!

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was excellent. A fast-paced, captivating thriller full of wealthy, toxic characters, stunning scenery, and an endearing protagonist. Once I picked this book up
I couldn’t put it down—it’s addicting and had me hooked from the start.

Baxter, a professional butler, has just arrived in Cannes to manage the new guests of Villa Sérénité for a week. Alec Prescott, a top client of Baxter’s agency, has rented the villa to celebrate his son Carter’s 21st birthday. They will be joined by Carter’s girlfriend Jade, Carter’s mother / Alec’s ex-wife Sylvie, and Carter’s godparents, Francesca and Damien. To the shock of everyone, Alec has also invited his 25 year old girlfriend, Kaitlyn.

Upon the arrival of all the guests, chaos ensues instantly. There is constant bickering, blatant adultery, and open hostility towards one another. Not even the murder of one of their own can put a stop to this toxic family dynamic. Everyone is a suspect, and everyone has a motive.

I loved how twisty this book was without being too scary. The characters are all so horrible that’s it’s impossible to predict who the murderer is. With the exception of Jade, I loved to hate them. Jade is so fiery and confident and all of her interactions made me laugh or smile. I’m also obsessed with Baxter and his unlikely accomplice Red and really hope I get to read more about them in the future!

Thank you to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment | Podium Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of The Butler by Clare Mackintosh

This is a glamorous, tightly plotted whodunnit set against the glittering backdrop of a luxury villa on the French Riviera. After the excess of the Cannes Film Festival, a group of wealthy, entitled guests gather for an exclusive weekend and it isn’t long before simmering tensions surface. When one of them is found dead in the swimming pool, the façade of privilege begins to crack.

At the centre of it all is Baxter, the impeccably composed butler whose professionalism masks a sharp intelligence and keen observational skills. Through his measured, almost forensic attention to detail, the story unfolds with controlled precision. Baxter’s restraint and quiet competence make him a compelling protagonist he sees everything, reveals little, and understands far more than those around him realise.

Set against him is Red, whose energy and perspective act as an effective foil. Where Baxter is controlled and discreet, Red brings a more instinctive, emotionally reactive edge to the investigation. The dynamic between them adds texture to the narrative, creating both tension and balance as secrets begin to unravel.

The mystery itself is cleverly structured, with enough misdirection to keep you engaged without tipping into implausibility.

While a few tropes of the closed-circle mystery are familiar the character work, particularly Baxter’s layered presence. Stylish, sharp and entertaining, The Butler is a polished addition to the genre and an enjoyable four-star read.

[Books By Your Bedside · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Podium for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.

I was very intrigued by this. I love Clare's books, and a short book was a new offering from her, and I was intrigued to see how she would fit all of her clever plots and characters into a short page count.

It was quick and to the point, ideal if a) you don't have a lot of time, or b) you are new to her books and want to see if they're for you.

Baxter is a dream of a main character, and I enjoyed reading a book set mostly from the Butler's perspective, it felt quite unusual. Nearly all the other characters are horrid. Some have their good points, but on the whole they are all instantly unlikeable.

I think the main whodunnit element should have been a bit earlier. It doesn't happen until relatively late in the book, which means there's not much time after to try and investigate it.

What I am impressed by is that generally, the whole book is set in one location, in one house, and revolves around the same...maybe dozen characters. To keep the reader interested without a change in scenery or characters is impressive.

It didn't hit me as hard as her other books and I think that might be because of the length. It's still got everything that makes her work great, but there isn't enough time, in my opinion to really layer the story and themes and suspects. And therefore I didn't feel that tension I was after.

I would love her to expand this and turn it into a full-length novel, which would give her time to shine, just like she does in her other books.

[DeAnn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Cannes Murder Stars

Cannes Film Festival, anyone? This short novel from Clare Mackintosh is set in the luxe setting in France. Of course, residences in places like this often come with staff. In this case, a butler, a cook, and a cleaner. They all know each other from previous assignments.

The guests are wealthy and not always well-behaved. Baxter, our butler, is doing his best to keep Alec Prescott happy. There are gorgeous women, some of them actresses, and lots of talk of movies and future projects. They spend time in the pool, enjoying food, and even having a birthday celebration. Tensions begin to rise, and old resentments bubble to the top.

And strange things are happening at the villa: break-ins, gangs targeting wealthy houses, and a pickpocket (nicknamed Red) who keeps turning up. Things really ramp up when one of the guests is found floating in the pool.

There are many similarities to stories from the grand dame of mysteries, Agatha Christie. If you enjoy stories like this, this story will be right up your alley. The police believe that the killer is someone at the house, and this includes the butler, cook, and cleaner.

This is slated to be a series, so I’m curious to see where the author takes Baxter and Red next.

Another fun buddy read with Marilyn and Jayme. Did they enjoy this one? Be sure to check out their reviews.

My thanks to Podium Entertainment for the opportunity to read and honestly review this one. Scheduled to release on 6.16.2026.