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Mr. Darcy & Miss Tilney #5
The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield: A Novel
The fifth book in New York Times bestselling author Claudia Gray’s Jane Austen sequel series, which finds amateur sleuths Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney investigating a suspicious murder at Netherfield Park
After a disastrous Season and a (somewhat) successful investigation, Jonathan Darcy has recovered from the wound he received in London three months prior. But his parents aren’t over the shock, nor ready to reexamine their belief that Jonathan must stop these dangerous investigations with Miss Juliet Tilney—particularly now that she is a young lady of ruined reputation. He prays for some opportunity to be with her again…and then his prayers are answered. Unfortunately, this comes in the form of his uncle Charles Bingley’s brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, being found murdered at Netherfield Park. His Aunt Jane is desperate for answers, which means Jonathan’s family must ask Miss Tilney to Netherfield to investigate!
Juliet, still reeling from her newfound ruination, is happy to be back in the thick of an investigation—and in the company of Mr. Darcy. Unfortunately, the scheming Caroline Bingley Allerdyce and her daughter Priscilla feel the same, leaving the sleuths to not only look for clues but also dodge their machinations. Then, Mr. Hurst proves to be but the first victim, casting a pall of danger—and worse, scandal—over the Bingleys' household. Jonathan and Juliet must find the culprit—and perhaps even more momentously, make a final choice between respectability…or love.
After a disastrous Season and a (somewhat) successful investigation, Jonathan Darcy has recovered from the wound he received in London three months prior. But his parents aren’t over the shock, nor ready to reexamine their belief that Jonathan must stop these dangerous investigations with Miss Juliet Tilney—particularly now that she is a young lady of ruined reputation. He prays for some opportunity to be with her again…and then his prayers are answered. Unfortunately, this comes in the form of his uncle Charles Bingley’s brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, being found murdered at Netherfield Park. His Aunt Jane is desperate for answers, which means Jonathan’s family must ask Miss Tilney to Netherfield to investigate!
Juliet, still reeling from her newfound ruination, is happy to be back in the thick of an investigation—and in the company of Mr. Darcy. Unfortunately, the scheming Caroline Bingley Allerdyce and her daughter Priscilla feel the same, leaving the sleuths to not only look for clues but also dodge their machinations. Then, Mr. Hurst proves to be but the first victim, casting a pall of danger—and worse, scandal—over the Bingleys' household. Jonathan and Juliet must find the culprit—and perhaps even more momentously, make a final choice between respectability…or love.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2026
About the author
Claudia Gray
117 books14.5k followersClaudia Gray is not my real name. I didn't choose a pseudonym because my real name is unpleasant (it isn't), because I'd always dreamed of calling myself this (I haven't) or even because I'm hiding from the remnants of that international diamond-smuggling cartel I smashed in 2003 (Interpol has taken care of them). In short, I took a pseudonym for no real reason whatsoever. Sometimes this is actually the best reason to do things.
I live in New Orleans. So far, in life, I've been a disc jockey, a lawyer, a journalist and an extremely bad waitress, just to name a few. I especially like to spend time traveling, hiking, reading and listening to music. More than anything else, I enjoy writing.
I live in New Orleans. So far, in life, I've been a disc jockey, a lawyer, a journalist and an extremely bad waitress, just to name a few. I especially like to spend time traveling, hiking, reading and listening to music. More than anything else, I enjoy writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 512 reviews
June 18, 2026
4.5 stars - I just really adore Gray's "Mr Darcy & Miss Tilney' Austenesque series and I've read them all, but this new one (#5) "The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield", might just be my favorite to date!! It's so FUN to spend time in this universe of "Pride & Prejudice" 25 years later, and in this one we get all the Bennetts & Bingleys and some other Austen folk, PLUS we finally get movement on the long-simmering romance between the two MC's and I was so very down for it. Fitzwilliam Darcy really irritated the H out of me in this one - I much prefer his son, Jonathon, who might just be neurodivergent. And his partner, Juliet Tilney, is quite the smart & feisty one too! Really enjoyed seeing those Bingley sisters get a bit of a comeuppance (IYKYK). The 'mystery" here does take a bit of a back-seat to the romance, but that cliff-hanger at the end - number 6 better come soon, aargh!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thought my Kindle was stuck but that was the last page. Why? How? I need more right now. I feel so betrayed. Not because this wasn't amazing, because it was. Because the author didn't release thirty books at the same time. So not exactly betrayed, because that isn't actually a thing, but sad, distraught, and weepy. I have waited so long for this book and now have to wait longer.
I am going to say it and be so controversial. I like Jonathan Darcy so much more than Fitzwilliam Darcy. Also, as Fitzwilliam is Jonathan's father, several times in the this book, I told him to f off. Not that he heard me, being a fictional character and all.
Now the waiting begins again.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. Seriously, thank you. I have been waiting and waiting anxiously for this book and was so excited to get an advanced copy. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
I am going to say it and be so controversial. I like Jonathan Darcy so much more than Fitzwilliam Darcy. Also, as Fitzwilliam is Jonathan's father, several times in the this book, I told him to f off. Not that he heard me, being a fictional character and all.
Now the waiting begins again.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. Seriously, thank you. I have been waiting and waiting anxiously for this book and was so excited to get an advanced copy. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
June 22, 2026
I am fated to read mysteries recently that end on terrible cliffhangers. 👀 That aside, I loved this fifth entry in the Mr Darcy & Miss Tilney mystery series. It’s definitely my favorite of the bunch because of the very interesting and complex situations that many of the characters are in. I love Claudia Gray’s portrayal of Jane Bingley and Mr Bingley (especially Jane!), the elder Mr Darcy, and Caroline Bingley Allerdyce and her family. We also get to see some of Kitty, Mr and Mrs Bennet, and a descendent of Sir William Lucas. The world feels very much a tribute to Jane Austen’s beloved characters while also being modern in good ways (like using mystery as an exploration of character). There is definitely more than one villain here.
And now to begin the long year’s wait!
And now to begin the long year’s wait!
May 6, 2026
After he is wounded in a duel for her honor and she is shunned by polite society, a once promising romance is dashed until another country house party gets interrupted by murder. Claudia Gray’s cozy historical mystery series set in the world of Jane Austen novels returns with another spectacular installment.
The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield Park is the fifth book in this series of standalone mysteries and ongoing romance tale that trots across as a combined sequel to all Jane Austen’s most beloved (and most vilified) characters.
It has been months since the duel and Jonathan is fully healed, but one wouldn’t know it the way his parents coddled him and insisted shawls and wraps by the fire even when its summer at Pemberley. He could just tolerate such solicitousness if his loving parents weren’t bound and determined to ignore his love for Miss Tilney for whom he fought the duel in her honor. They won’t speak of her or let him speak of her though they claim they don’t blame her for his artist acquaintance painting a risqué picture and putting her face on it. When his Aunt Jane sends a letter wishing for company, but her parents have to help his dear Aunt Georgiana, Jonathan leaps at the chance to travel south to Netherfield and be his aunt and uncle’s guest- even if it means tolerating his uncle’s Bingley relations and his querulous grandparents at Longbourn, too.
Juliet had little to do with the mean prank of a painting, Mrs. Allardyce’s cruel drawing notice of her resemblance to the portrait, or the following duel, but all of society is down on her regardless. When the impertinent marriage letter comes from the artist, her grandfather and uncle insist she accept the offer- or, find a way to trap the Darcy heir. Juliet wants to do neither and mourns the loss of a match with Jonathan. So, when she gets his aunt’s letter begging her to come to Netherfield and help Jonathan solve the murder of his uncle’s brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, she leaps at the chance even if she must hold Jonathan away for their own good.
Still, anything can happen when they’re in the midst of a murder investigation of a sot of a man no one seems to have a motive to kill.
The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield Park is both a fresh murder mystery, ongoing slow-burn romance, and is also a sequel to the Jane Austen novels. This time around, the scenes and characters are predominantly from Pride & Prejudice. Jane and Charles Bingley are hosting his sister and brother-in-law Hurst, his youngest sister and her husband, and is expecting the arrival of another sister, Caroline and her family, the Allardyces. Daily visits come from the vicar and his wife, the former Kitty Bennet, and the Lucas heir who also happens to be the new magistrate. Jonathan arrives the day before a murder happens and he is right on the spot to start the investigation among people he already knows, to some extent. Juliet joins him and the try to untangle the mystery and their stalled love life.
I enjoy the way Claudia Gray has written her clever mysteries, but also worked hard to stick to period detail as well as the details that tie these closely to the Austen novels. Though cozy mystery in feel, I think this series will be a strong draw for Austen lovers and cozy mystery fans alike.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy from Vintage Books and Great Reads Book Promo to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 6.17.26.
The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield Park is the fifth book in this series of standalone mysteries and ongoing romance tale that trots across as a combined sequel to all Jane Austen’s most beloved (and most vilified) characters.
It has been months since the duel and Jonathan is fully healed, but one wouldn’t know it the way his parents coddled him and insisted shawls and wraps by the fire even when its summer at Pemberley. He could just tolerate such solicitousness if his loving parents weren’t bound and determined to ignore his love for Miss Tilney for whom he fought the duel in her honor. They won’t speak of her or let him speak of her though they claim they don’t blame her for his artist acquaintance painting a risqué picture and putting her face on it. When his Aunt Jane sends a letter wishing for company, but her parents have to help his dear Aunt Georgiana, Jonathan leaps at the chance to travel south to Netherfield and be his aunt and uncle’s guest- even if it means tolerating his uncle’s Bingley relations and his querulous grandparents at Longbourn, too.
Juliet had little to do with the mean prank of a painting, Mrs. Allardyce’s cruel drawing notice of her resemblance to the portrait, or the following duel, but all of society is down on her regardless. When the impertinent marriage letter comes from the artist, her grandfather and uncle insist she accept the offer- or, find a way to trap the Darcy heir. Juliet wants to do neither and mourns the loss of a match with Jonathan. So, when she gets his aunt’s letter begging her to come to Netherfield and help Jonathan solve the murder of his uncle’s brother-in-law, Mr. Hurst, she leaps at the chance even if she must hold Jonathan away for their own good.
Still, anything can happen when they’re in the midst of a murder investigation of a sot of a man no one seems to have a motive to kill.
The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield Park is both a fresh murder mystery, ongoing slow-burn romance, and is also a sequel to the Jane Austen novels. This time around, the scenes and characters are predominantly from Pride & Prejudice. Jane and Charles Bingley are hosting his sister and brother-in-law Hurst, his youngest sister and her husband, and is expecting the arrival of another sister, Caroline and her family, the Allardyces. Daily visits come from the vicar and his wife, the former Kitty Bennet, and the Lucas heir who also happens to be the new magistrate. Jonathan arrives the day before a murder happens and he is right on the spot to start the investigation among people he already knows, to some extent. Juliet joins him and the try to untangle the mystery and their stalled love life.
I enjoy the way Claudia Gray has written her clever mysteries, but also worked hard to stick to period detail as well as the details that tie these closely to the Austen novels. Though cozy mystery in feel, I think this series will be a strong draw for Austen lovers and cozy mystery fans alike.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley and a finished print copy from Vintage Books and Great Reads Book Promo to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on 6.17.26.
November 6, 2026
“Indeed, for she is a bright young woman, with some wit about her. Little enough has there been in this house since you took our Elizabeth from it." Mr. Bennet winked.”
How did I miss book five coming out?!?! And then saw that we are getting another book in this series? It's safe to assume that I kind of freaked out a bit and dropped everything around me to jump into this book. I've missed Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney so much. Even though they do drive me completely bonkers most of the time. BUT DID I FREAK OUT WHEN WE GOT ALL THE BENNETS IN THIS ONE? Yes, yes I did and I'm okay with it.
Now certain characters did annoy me in this one but I am really happy with the amount of romance we got. It sort of balanced out my annoyance which is a weird sentence to write. I've been waiting like 840 years for certain things to happen and I feel like I might die before I get what I truly want relationship-wise between our two main characters. Yes, I know I'm being very dramatic but that's how I felt yesterday (and still today too).
Also, the mystery was good but felt like a backburner for me? Then we get the dreaded cliffhanger, and ugh, now I have to wait until next year for the next book??! Ugh, I'm not known for my patience people! Oh, and it pains me to say this, but I wanted to slap Fitzwilliam so many freaking times. SO. MANY. TIMES.
September 24, 2026
4.25 stars
July 26, 2026
The fifth in the series, this book is set at Netherfield and involves the unfortunate demise of Mr. Hurst, the perpetually soused brother-in-law of Mr. Bingley. Jonathan and Juliet pair up again to solve the murder, and we get to spend time with Pride and Prejudice staples such as Jane and Bingley, his sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, and even the oft-ignored (both by readers and in her own family) Kitty.
The farther we get into the series, the more outlandish the logic is for letting Jonathan and Juliet play detective, so follow the advice of MST3K (“if you’re wondering how they [keep getting involved in murders and allowed to take over the investigation] and other [mystery novel] facts, just repeat to yourself it’s just a [book] I should really just relax.”) and just enjoy the ride.
While the mystery is decent, the real driver of this book is the forbidden relationship between the two detectives and the way various other characters either support them or attempt to stop them. Poor Mr. Hurst died to keep the romance alive! Unfortunately for him I’m as sad at his death as Mrs. Hurst was.
The book ends on a wicked cliffhanger and no publication date for the next book in sight. :(
The farther we get into the series, the more outlandish the logic is for letting Jonathan and Juliet play detective, so follow the advice of MST3K (“if you’re wondering how they [keep getting involved in murders and allowed to take over the investigation] and other [mystery novel] facts, just repeat to yourself it’s just a [book] I should really just relax.”) and just enjoy the ride.
While the mystery is decent, the real driver of this book is the forbidden relationship between the two detectives and the way various other characters either support them or attempt to stop them. Poor Mr. Hurst died to keep the romance alive! Unfortunately for him I’m as sad at his death as Mrs. Hurst was.
The book ends on a wicked cliffhanger and no publication date for the next book in sight. :(
January 6, 2026
So many thanks to Vintage for the preview. All opinions are my own.
This was a "drop everything and read" ARC for me, and I could not possibly be happier with it. I read it in one sitting and was GIDDY and delighted!! This is definitely my fav of the series. I absolutely adore Jonathan and Juliet; their relationship progress (finally!) made me kick my heels in glee. I'm also just so happy with their own personal development--especially Jonathan, and I'm delighted those around him see it.
There were parts that made me laugh, and even more that made me tear up. Mr Bennett gets a lot of (mostly deserved flack), but one of his lines to Mr Darcy had me in a puddle. I feel like Gray really gets the Pride & Prejudice cast of characters. And if you picture the cast from the 1995 BBC miniseries, this book is even more elevated. But Jane is the real MVP of this book--OMG I loved her more than ever. She stands up to those who have run over her and it is GLORIOUS. I've never loved the Bingleys more.
I really didn't figure out the culprit for this particular murder mystery until the reveal. But Jonathan and Juliet are so clever and brave throughout. I will say I did want to throttle Fitzwilliam Darcy at one point, but he does always get there in the end, especially with help from Lizzy.
I asbolutely hope we get more books in this world! The end is so hopeful! Lol while I'm not hoping for more murders exactly, I do want more of these characters, especially from P&P!
This was a "drop everything and read" ARC for me, and I could not possibly be happier with it. I read it in one sitting and was GIDDY and delighted!! This is definitely my fav of the series. I absolutely adore Jonathan and Juliet; their relationship progress (finally!) made me kick my heels in glee. I'm also just so happy with their own personal development--especially Jonathan, and I'm delighted those around him see it.
There were parts that made me laugh, and even more that made me tear up. Mr Bennett gets a lot of (mostly deserved flack), but one of his lines to Mr Darcy had me in a puddle. I feel like Gray really gets the Pride & Prejudice cast of characters. And if you picture the cast from the 1995 BBC miniseries, this book is even more elevated. But Jane is the real MVP of this book--OMG I loved her more than ever. She stands up to those who have run over her and it is GLORIOUS. I've never loved the Bingleys more.
I really didn't figure out the culprit for this particular murder mystery until the reveal. But Jonathan and Juliet are so clever and brave throughout. I will say I did want to throttle Fitzwilliam Darcy at one point, but he does always get there in the end, especially with help from Lizzy.
I asbolutely hope we get more books in this world! The end is so hopeful! Lol while I'm not hoping for more murders exactly, I do want more of these characters, especially from P&P!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
OMG THIS ENDING KILLED ME. Why was I pressing next page on my Kindle like 50x?! I was like NOOOOO THERE'S GOT TO BE MORE!! I do love this series and the next book better come out soon lol. I do like how the author continues the characters in an authentic way and doesn't have them do things out of their Austen character.
*Provided a DRC (digital review copy) from the publisher for review. All opinions are my own.
*Provided a DRC (digital review copy) from the publisher for review. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2026
any time a body drops in england, jonathan darcy and juliet tilney cheer
October 4, 2026
I feel a bit like I'm being held hostage by this series, but I did like this entry better than the last one up until the cliffhanger.
There's a particularly satisfying scene between Mr. Darcy and Jane Bingley that had me grabbing onto my husband and saying "that was so great."
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Death, Murder
Moderate: Child death, Suicide, Violence, Grief, Classism
Minor: Addiction, Alcoholism, Infidelity, Misogyny, Sexism, Alcohol
There's a particularly satisfying scene between Mr. Darcy and Jane Bingley that had me grabbing onto my husband and saying "that was so great."
Content Warnings:
Graphic: Death, Murder
Moderate: Child death, Suicide, Violence, Grief, Classism
Minor: Addiction, Alcoholism, Infidelity, Misogyny, Sexism, Alcohol
May 19, 2026
I am a loyal fan of this series and I didn't think anything could top the fourth book, but The Fatal Unpleasantness at Netherfield took things to another level! We get a twisty mystery and significant developments in the romantic relationship between our charming main characters, Juliet Tilney and Jonathan Darcy.
The end of the third book made it seem almost impossible for the sweetest couple in historical mystery to get back together, but Claudia Gray gets them back together, unbeknownst to their parents, at Netherfield. All of the Bingleys and their spouses are in this one and we get to see what's happening with the Bennett parents and Kitty, who has stayed in the area.
Seeing characters that all Austen fans know was fun in and of itself. Having a few in their circle get murdered was extra fun! I didn't catch the clues that led Juliet and Jonathan to the villain and felt their arrival at the conclusion was a bit of a stretch, but who cares! They're adorable!
As for the relationship, I was completely surprised by the turn this cute couple takes. This doesn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but I can't wait for the next installment!
The end of the third book made it seem almost impossible for the sweetest couple in historical mystery to get back together, but Claudia Gray gets them back together, unbeknownst to their parents, at Netherfield. All of the Bingleys and their spouses are in this one and we get to see what's happening with the Bennett parents and Kitty, who has stayed in the area.
Seeing characters that all Austen fans know was fun in and of itself. Having a few in their circle get murdered was extra fun! I didn't catch the clues that led Juliet and Jonathan to the villain and felt their arrival at the conclusion was a bit of a stretch, but who cares! They're adorable!
As for the relationship, I was completely surprised by the turn this cute couple takes. This doesn't exactly end on a cliffhanger, but I can't wait for the next installment!
July 5, 2026
gonna need claudia gray to hurry up and publish the next one
June 19, 2026
SPOILERS!!!
THEY HAD BETTER TURN AROUND!! I am sorry but I am now becoming fed up with this series. I love the mysteries. I love the character and being in Jane Austen’s world. However, more and more the “slow burn” of Juliet and Jonathan is becoming unbearable. I am now not certain as to what the point of the romance even is meant to be. That said, I find that the romance is beginning to overshadow the mysteries. If Claudia Gray wishes the series to be more of a romance than a cozy mystery than from here on out it should be advertised as such.
I do not find the conduct of Fitzwilliam Darcy to be held in the manner that Jane Austen would have intended for him. It appears that though it is implied in the original text that Fitzwilliam had understood the error of his ways, that Claudia Gray does not wish that to be so. I do, however, agree that it would take a lot to anger Jane Bingley. Her eventual targeted and spirited response do align with the character that Austen would have approved of.
As for the other, supporting, characters it is easy to see that there was no need to deviate from Austen’s original personalities. I applaud Gray with a likelihood of how those individuals may have ended their days, as well as how a possible murder and the motives could have gone. If one can get away from the angst of “love” than the plot of the novel was sublime.
Overall, I rate this novel 3 out of 5 stars.
THEY HAD BETTER TURN AROUND!! I am sorry but I am now becoming fed up with this series. I love the mysteries. I love the character and being in Jane Austen’s world. However, more and more the “slow burn” of Juliet and Jonathan is becoming unbearable. I am now not certain as to what the point of the romance even is meant to be. That said, I find that the romance is beginning to overshadow the mysteries. If Claudia Gray wishes the series to be more of a romance than a cozy mystery than from here on out it should be advertised as such.
I do not find the conduct of Fitzwilliam Darcy to be held in the manner that Jane Austen would have intended for him. It appears that though it is implied in the original text that Fitzwilliam had understood the error of his ways, that Claudia Gray does not wish that to be so. I do, however, agree that it would take a lot to anger Jane Bingley. Her eventual targeted and spirited response do align with the character that Austen would have approved of.
As for the other, supporting, characters it is easy to see that there was no need to deviate from Austen’s original personalities. I applaud Gray with a likelihood of how those individuals may have ended their days, as well as how a possible murder and the motives could have gone. If one can get away from the angst of “love” than the plot of the novel was sublime.
Overall, I rate this novel 3 out of 5 stars.
August 9, 2026
okay guys... I am unwell
June 18, 2026
This is the fifth in a mystery series starring Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney, along with various characters from the Jane Austen universe. The following thoughts assume you've read the previous books.
In this outing Jonathan, finally recovered from his duel injury, visits his aunt and uncle Bingley at Netherfield. Unfortunately, shortly after his arrival, Mr. Hurst, Charles Bingley's brother-in-law, is found murdered. Naturally, Jane asks Jonathan to investigate.
Jonathan, while sorry for the death, takes this opportunity to ask Jane to send for Juliet. Elizabeth and Darcy have discouraged Jonathan from seeing the girl, after her misfortunes in London the previous season. Reunited, the pair set out to solve the murder.
Besides the murder investigation, this book has a lot going on. We learn more about Juliet's home situation, we get to see what Kitty's married life is like, and we are reunited with Caroline Bingley and her daughters. Oh and the constable is none other than one of the Lucas sons.
Anyway, I love the way Gray has taken the original characters and imagined their continuing lives. The next generation of Austen characters seem believable and are products of their parents' situations. I also appreciate the way Jonathan has matured and found ways to deal with his tics (he's on the spectrum). Jonathon and Juliet's relationship continues to grown and Darcy's appearance in this book is perfect.
But the kicker here, is that the novel ends on a kind of cliff-hanger. I want the next book *now*!
The audiobook is performed by Billie Fulford-Brown, who also narrated the previous books in the series. I have nothing but good things to say about her performance, especially the way she handles Jonathon. Her delivery is engaging and expressive, and I wholeheartedly recommend her work on this series.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Audio for the review copy.
In this outing Jonathan, finally recovered from his duel injury, visits his aunt and uncle Bingley at Netherfield. Unfortunately, shortly after his arrival, Mr. Hurst, Charles Bingley's brother-in-law, is found murdered. Naturally, Jane asks Jonathan to investigate.
Jonathan, while sorry for the death, takes this opportunity to ask Jane to send for Juliet. Elizabeth and Darcy have discouraged Jonathan from seeing the girl, after her misfortunes in London the previous season. Reunited, the pair set out to solve the murder.
Besides the murder investigation, this book has a lot going on. We learn more about Juliet's home situation, we get to see what Kitty's married life is like, and we are reunited with Caroline Bingley and her daughters. Oh and the constable is none other than one of the Lucas sons.
Anyway, I love the way Gray has taken the original characters and imagined their continuing lives. The next generation of Austen characters seem believable and are products of their parents' situations. I also appreciate the way Jonathan has matured and found ways to deal with his tics (he's on the spectrum). Jonathon and Juliet's relationship continues to grown and Darcy's appearance in this book is perfect.
But the kicker here, is that the novel ends on a kind of cliff-hanger. I want the next book *now*!
The audiobook is performed by Billie Fulford-Brown, who also narrated the previous books in the series. I have nothing but good things to say about her performance, especially the way she handles Jonathon. Her delivery is engaging and expressive, and I wholeheartedly recommend her work on this series.
Thanks to Penguin Random House Audio for the review copy.
June 26, 2026
*screams happily for a solid three minutes*
I love this series at all times, and this book is the best one in it yet. We get Jane and Bingley as a couple, so kind and good and accommodating (and some gentle comments in the text about why that's not 100% a good thing) that both Jonathan and Juliet are like "everyone in this house is a suspect, except Mr. and Mrs. Bingley because they would never". We also get a scene where Jane Gets Upset and Uses Her Words during which I muttered gleefully "oh, what's this, why, it's JANE BINGLEY WITH THE STEEL CHAIR" because it was so perfect and perfectly devastating. We see the Bennets being...the Bennets, and witness the very possible reformation of Caroline Allerdyce nee Bingley, and Mr. Darcy gets to stay at Longbourn with his in-laws because Netherfield is full up with murders and murder suspects, which is exactly the hint of purgatory he deserves.
And we get Jonathan and Juliet. Admitting their feelings for each other haven't changed despite the scandal and ruination of Juliet's reputation from the last book! Agreeing to a secret understanding! Supporting each other despite their respective familial disapprovals! Using each other's Christian names! It was so perfect, it was everything I have been waiting for, I love them so much.
I have no idea what's going to happen next or where they will end up. Surely it's time to go to Lyme Regis? Or maybe Marianne and Colonel Brandon will support Jonathan and Juliet? Or (oh god) maybe Emma will try and fix things? Bring it on.
I love this series at all times, and this book is the best one in it yet. We get Jane and Bingley as a couple, so kind and good and accommodating (and some gentle comments in the text about why that's not 100% a good thing) that both Jonathan and Juliet are like "everyone in this house is a suspect, except Mr. and Mrs. Bingley because they would never". We also get a scene where Jane Gets Upset and Uses Her Words during which I muttered gleefully "oh, what's this, why, it's JANE BINGLEY WITH THE STEEL CHAIR" because it was so perfect and perfectly devastating. We see the Bennets being...the Bennets, and witness the very possible reformation of Caroline Allerdyce nee Bingley, and Mr. Darcy gets to stay at Longbourn with his in-laws because Netherfield is full up with murders and murder suspects, which is exactly the hint of purgatory he deserves.
And we get Jonathan and Juliet. Admitting their feelings for each other haven't changed despite the scandal and ruination of Juliet's reputation from the last book! Agreeing to a secret understanding! Supporting each other despite their respective familial disapprovals! Using each other's Christian names! It was so perfect, it was everything I have been waiting for, I love them so much.
I have no idea what's going to happen next or where they will end up. Surely it's time to go to Lyme Regis? Or maybe Marianne and Colonel Brandon will support Jonathan and Juliet? Or (oh god) maybe Emma will try and fix things? Bring it on.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received a complimentary copy of this book and was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
I’ve only read book four in this series before picking up this one, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to jump right back into the story. Even without reading the earlier books, I had no trouble keeping up with the characters or the ongoing dynamics.
This installment may actually be my favorite so far. I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book, but this one drew me in even more. The continued partnership between Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney is such a fun element of the series. Their investigative teamwork, combined with the tension surrounding Juliet’s ruined reputation and the expectations placed on Jonathan, adds both emotional depth and intrigue to the mystery.
It was also delightful returning to the familiar circle of Charles Bingley and Jane Bennet Bingley and spending time again at Netherfield Park. The countryside setting created the perfect atmosphere for a classic whodunit, especially as the mystery deepens and danger begins to surround the household.
Overall, this was a most enjoyable read—full of clever investigation, beloved Austen-adjacent characters, and a cozy yet suspenseful mystery inspired by the world of Jane Austen.
I’ve only read book four in this series before picking up this one, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to jump right back into the story. Even without reading the earlier books, I had no trouble keeping up with the characters or the ongoing dynamics.
This installment may actually be my favorite so far. I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book, but this one drew me in even more. The continued partnership between Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney is such a fun element of the series. Their investigative teamwork, combined with the tension surrounding Juliet’s ruined reputation and the expectations placed on Jonathan, adds both emotional depth and intrigue to the mystery.
It was also delightful returning to the familiar circle of Charles Bingley and Jane Bennet Bingley and spending time again at Netherfield Park. The countryside setting created the perfect atmosphere for a classic whodunit, especially as the mystery deepens and danger begins to surround the household.
Overall, this was a most enjoyable read—full of clever investigation, beloved Austen-adjacent characters, and a cozy yet suspenseful mystery inspired by the world of Jane Austen.
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November 25, 2025I really hope they pick me for an ARC on NetGalley ✨ I’ve loved this series and I’d love to be part of promoting it!
October 2, 2026
4,25/5
Les protagonistes étaient vraiment touchants dans ce tome, notamment Jonathan qu’on approfondit et dont l’évolution et le travail qu’il fait sur lui même sont impressionnants. Et puis les Green flags sur Green flags de ces 2 loustics purée it’s too much les bebewww.
Sinon niveau intrigue j’avais vraiment 0 idée jusqu’à 70% après ça se resserre et du coup ça devient obvious, donc déçue de pas avoir de petit plot twist sur l’identité de la personne derrière les meurtres.
La fin me tient en haleine il me faut la suite et vite !
Les protagonistes étaient vraiment touchants dans ce tome, notamment Jonathan qu’on approfondit et dont l’évolution et le travail qu’il fait sur lui même sont impressionnants. Et puis les Green flags sur Green flags de ces 2 loustics purée it’s too much les bebewww.
Sinon niveau intrigue j’avais vraiment 0 idée jusqu’à 70% après ça se resserre et du coup ça devient obvious, donc déçue de pas avoir de petit plot twist sur l’identité de la personne derrière les meurtres.
La fin me tient en haleine il me faut la suite et vite !
June 8, 2026
Jonathan Darcy longs to marry Juliet Tilney but after his scandalous duel for her honor, his parents won’t approve. Juliet is now a social pariah, desperately hoping for a reinstated reputation. When Jonathan visits his Aunt Jane, a murder gives him a chance to investigate with Juliet again, and make his wishes known to her…
This historical mystery series is a fun twist on the world of Jane Austen. In this installment, the romantic tension between Jonathan and Juliet became intense as Juliet faced dire options for her future and Jonathan contemplated what he would be willing to give up to stand by Juliet. The murder investigation had plenty of suspects and evidence teased out over the whole book. I enjoyed the new character, Isaac Lucas, a genuine friend to Jonathan, understanding of his family dynamics and supportive of the needs of his neurodivergence.
Minor spoiler:
The mystery was resolved well but the ending left me with mixed feelings about the young lovers’ romance. I adore their relationship but here at the end of book five, I longed for the slow burn love story to have a nice resolution instead of another dramatic development.
Overall, this was an engaging, well-paced mystery and I look forward to the next book in series (where hopefully this lovely couple will finally get a more complete happily ever after).
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
This historical mystery series is a fun twist on the world of Jane Austen. In this installment, the romantic tension between Jonathan and Juliet became intense as Juliet faced dire options for her future and Jonathan contemplated what he would be willing to give up to stand by Juliet. The murder investigation had plenty of suspects and evidence teased out over the whole book. I enjoyed the new character, Isaac Lucas, a genuine friend to Jonathan, understanding of his family dynamics and supportive of the needs of his neurodivergence.
Minor spoiler:
The mystery was resolved well but the ending left me with mixed feelings about the young lovers’ romance. I adore their relationship but here at the end of book five, I longed for the slow burn love story to have a nice resolution instead of another dramatic development.
Overall, this was an engaging, well-paced mystery and I look forward to the next book in series (where hopefully this lovely couple will finally get a more complete happily ever after).
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2026
4.5–
Surely one of my favorites in the series, but I do feel like 3 murders in one book (and house!) shows a bit too much unreality and also that maybe Jonathan and Juliet are not quite so proficient as they seem.
These books are not quite crack to me, though I feel incredibly elated to read them, but actual nourishment because of their high quality. I love these and Jonathan/Juliet so much, despite the fanfiction premise and unbelievability of murder happening again and again around these characters. The integration of new characters and continued characterization of actual canonical Austen characters is so well done, it makes these such a joy to read and feels like the series has all the more merit—no one can say these are just a cash grab or a popular idea with poor execution.
I’ve never been one to make out heads or tails of murder mysteries (although it might be worth re reading some of these to see how truly air tight these are) but I like the way Jonathan and Juliet for the most part follow very methodical and logical inferences to find their killers.
Jonathan and Juliet’s relationship as well feels so, so sweet and realistic. Unlike romance novels/rom coms that can at times make their love interests completely flawless or close to it, Jonathan has some real “peculiarities” that make his life harder, have society judge him but also allow him to be a great partner to Juliet. He and Juliet feel so real, you can’t help but be thrilled when they finally kiss in this book.
I now have to wait another year for the next one 😓😓
Surely one of my favorites in the series, but I do feel like 3 murders in one book (and house!) shows a bit too much unreality and also that maybe Jonathan and Juliet are not quite so proficient as they seem.
These books are not quite crack to me, though I feel incredibly elated to read them, but actual nourishment because of their high quality. I love these and Jonathan/Juliet so much, despite the fanfiction premise and unbelievability of murder happening again and again around these characters. The integration of new characters and continued characterization of actual canonical Austen characters is so well done, it makes these such a joy to read and feels like the series has all the more merit—no one can say these are just a cash grab or a popular idea with poor execution.
I’ve never been one to make out heads or tails of murder mysteries (although it might be worth re reading some of these to see how truly air tight these are) but I like the way Jonathan and Juliet for the most part follow very methodical and logical inferences to find their killers.
Jonathan and Juliet’s relationship as well feels so, so sweet and realistic. Unlike romance novels/rom coms that can at times make their love interests completely flawless or close to it, Jonathan has some real “peculiarities” that make his life harder, have society judge him but also allow him to be a great partner to Juliet. He and Juliet feel so real, you can’t help but be thrilled when they finally kiss in this book.
I now have to wait another year for the next one 😓😓
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2026
Although technically 4.5 stars because I was denied a glimpse at Papa Tilney and honestly. Scandal! The outrage!
I do love how Gray managed to capture Austen's characters and stay true to them, and giving Jane such glorious moments as finally standing up for herself and telling off Darcy and the Bingley sisters was sooooo good.
The murder mystery was ok (honestly, I'm here for Henry, Catherine, and their children more than anything), but the way Gray continues to make these characters shine while staying true to Austen's sly wit has me in awe.
I hope there will be many more of these books in the future!
I do love how Gray managed to capture Austen's characters and stay true to them, and giving Jane such glorious moments as finally standing up for herself and telling off Darcy and the Bingley sisters was sooooo good.
The murder mystery was ok (honestly, I'm here for Henry, Catherine, and their children more than anything), but the way Gray continues to make these characters shine while staying true to Austen's sly wit has me in awe.
I hope there will be many more of these books in the future!
August 17, 2026
The best of the series so far. I put it at 4 stars but I can understand some lower ratings, it's not everyone's cup of tea when it comes to a cozy mystery. I happen to love the Austenesque flavor of the writing. Some readers might have trouble figuring out who's who among all the new family members, their offspring and spouses. I enjoyed visualizing them all.
In this installment Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney draw ever closer as they conduct their investigation of the Unpleasantness. It was fun to see Caroline and Louisa exposed for their past sins, but poor Kitty, always getting short shrift!
I suggest reading this series in order.
In this installment Jonathan Darcy and Juliet Tilney draw ever closer as they conduct their investigation of the Unpleasantness. It was fun to see Caroline and Louisa exposed for their past sins, but poor Kitty, always getting short shrift!
I suggest reading this series in order.
August 21, 2026
This entry in the series reminds me of the earlier books that I fell in love with. The mysteries weren’t as compelling but the interactions between Jonathan and Juliet were superb and the ending was everything! I won’t spoil anything but I can’t wait to see where the next book will take these characters.
July 14, 2026
I read this book all in one day and thoroughly enjoyed it, despite the plot and setting being very similar to setups of the other books. I despair that we will ever get a happy ending for our heroes, and felt a little like throwing my Kindle when I got to the cliffhanger ending, so obviously I’m invested. I definitely was less interested in the murder investigation than the relationship developments, but I thought the mystery was as good as the others have been. Now to wait again for the next one… ☺️ I guess I could finish reading Northanger Abbey while I wait 🫣
September 10, 2026
these are just so cozy♥️
July 5, 2026
I love this series and this was a great addition to it. I think this series shines when its setting is mainly at a country house location and Netherfield is the ultimate version of that. Loved Jane Bingley in this, she still gets to be the sweet character we know but also have some moments of agency she deserves. The mystery part was ok, but at this point I’m invested in Jonathan and Juliet’s love story.
October 2, 2026
BEST INSTALLMENT IN THIS SERIES YET!!! Raised the stakes hugely!! Loved the appearance of the Bingleys!! You know Claudia Gray was a Jane-Bingley truther!!!!!!!
Can't wait for the next one!
Can't wait for the next one!
August 16, 2026
These books are so important to me and me specifically. Like I can’t speak for anyone else but this chronically a 5 star series for me.
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