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Lady Darby Mysteries #14
A Bitter Cut
Lady Kiera Darby plans to spend the summer reconnecting with friends and family in anticipation of the betrothal of her beloved brother. But when a future in-law is implicated in a murder, the party takes a deadly turn. . . .
July 1833. Lady Darby and her dashing husband, Sebastian Gage, are settling into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warkwickshire with their young daughter. With the breach between them and Sebastian’s father recently healed, they've agreed to help host a country house party for friends and family to share in their joy. Kiera is also anxious to help promote a match between her brother, Trevor, and the woman he’s fallen in love with, inviting her family to join them. However, Kiera swiftly discovers that the would-be bride’s family is not without their detractions. Her brother is unpleasant. Her mother is abrasive. And her father—the prosperous industrialist Jeremiah Birnam—is brusque, discourteous, and, at times, downright rude.
So when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is found murdered with Birnam standing over her body, many are content to allow him to take the blame. But neither Kiera nor Sebastian believes he did it, and in spite of his bluster and boorish behavior, they can’t let an innocent man be hung for another’s crime. Unfortunately, Birnam had his fair share of enemies at the house party, and any one of them might have struck out at his secretary in order to get to him. It's up to Kiera and Sebastian to uncover the truth and salvage Birnam’s reputation. As the couple slowly inches their way closer to the truth and threats emerge against their loved ones, Kiera begins to fear that the price of solving the crime may mean sacrificing her brother’s future happiness.
July 1833. Lady Darby and her dashing husband, Sebastian Gage, are settling into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warkwickshire with their young daughter. With the breach between them and Sebastian’s father recently healed, they've agreed to help host a country house party for friends and family to share in their joy. Kiera is also anxious to help promote a match between her brother, Trevor, and the woman he’s fallen in love with, inviting her family to join them. However, Kiera swiftly discovers that the would-be bride’s family is not without their detractions. Her brother is unpleasant. Her mother is abrasive. And her father—the prosperous industrialist Jeremiah Birnam—is brusque, discourteous, and, at times, downright rude.
So when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is found murdered with Birnam standing over her body, many are content to allow him to take the blame. But neither Kiera nor Sebastian believes he did it, and in spite of his bluster and boorish behavior, they can’t let an innocent man be hung for another’s crime. Unfortunately, Birnam had his fair share of enemies at the house party, and any one of them might have struck out at his secretary in order to get to him. It's up to Kiera and Sebastian to uncover the truth and salvage Birnam’s reputation. As the couple slowly inches their way closer to the truth and threats emerge against their loved ones, Kiera begins to fear that the price of solving the crime may mean sacrificing her brother’s future happiness.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 23, 2026
About the author
Anna Lee Huber
29 books3,735 followersAnna Lee Huber is the USA Today bestselling and Daphne award-winning author of the Lady Darby Mysteries, the Verity Kent Mysteries, the Gothic Myths series, as well as Sisters of Fortune: A Novel of the Titanic and the anthology The Deadly Hours. She is a summa cum laude graduate of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, where she majored in music and minored in psychology. She currently resides in Indiana with her family and is hard at work on her next novel. Visit her online at www.annaleehuber.com.
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April 27, 2026A country house party with powerful guests and a man with enemies is found near the body of his secretary. Kiera and Gage are back in sleuthing mode in the latest from Anna Lee Huber.
A Bitter Cut is the fourteenth installment of the Victorian-Era Lady Darby Mysteries. A Bitter Cut might be taken out of order as a standalone, but I highly recommend starting the series from the beginning and follow the character and relationship growth arcs.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
A Bitter Cut is the fourteenth installment of the Victorian-Era Lady Darby Mysteries. A Bitter Cut might be taken out of order as a standalone, but I highly recommend starting the series from the beginning and follow the character and relationship growth arcs.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy TBA.
June 24, 2026
It is always a pleasure to read a new Lady Darby book.
The summer of 1833 was an exceptionally hot one world wide. Kiera and Gage are hosting a summer house party and have invited the presumptive parents in law of Kiera's brothers fiancee, Matilda Birnham.
There are some interesting historical facts about British laws, and Lord Melbourne and other real people in attendance.
There is if course a murder and many twists and turns as Kiera and Gage try to find the murderer.
The cast if characters is large with many recurring characters, especially 15 month old Emma who toddles around. Kiera has begun to worry that she has not become pregnant again, and the discussions with her sister and cousin in law about that are heartwarming.
I am already looking forward to the next as one of my favorite characters will play an important role.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.
The summer of 1833 was an exceptionally hot one world wide. Kiera and Gage are hosting a summer house party and have invited the presumptive parents in law of Kiera's brothers fiancee, Matilda Birnham.
There are some interesting historical facts about British laws, and Lord Melbourne and other real people in attendance.
There is if course a murder and many twists and turns as Kiera and Gage try to find the murderer.
The cast if characters is large with many recurring characters, especially 15 month old Emma who toddles around. Kiera has begun to worry that she has not become pregnant again, and the discussions with her sister and cousin in law about that are heartwarming.
I am already looking forward to the next as one of my favorite characters will play an important role.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.
March 26, 2026
Another fantastic Lady Darby mystery! I love that with each installment we get more family, more friends, more knowledge that Kiera isn’t alone anymore (as she was so isolated in her first marriage). The murder was sadly gruesome, but the mystery kept me guessing until the end. Thanks to Berkley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for an advance copy of this novel.
This is the 14th book in Anna Lee Huber’s stalwart Lady Darby mystery series. Set in Warwickshire in the early 19th century, the evolving series has seen the main female character through woes and wonders both, including an abusive marriage. Her first husband’s death freed her from that traumatic youthful experience, and, at this point we find Kiera (Lady Darby) happily married to a man who is truly a soulmate. Sebastian, Lord Gage, is kind, respectful and fully in love with his accomplished wife. Though by nature reserved, she has consistently shown herself to be intelligent, observant, composed and resourceful—all qualities that fit her admirably to solve the mysteries that she encounters. Gage (as she calls him) is also handsome and charming, in both her eyes and those of their upper class circle, which makes him very much the perfect match for her, especially in contrast to her first husband.
At this point in the on-going story, the Gages and their young daughter are just settling in to their new home at his ancestral estate, Bevington Park. The senior Lord Gage, her father-in-law, had recently reconciled with his son and promised him the entire estate, but the young couple preferred to renovate the dower house on the property, to set up as their first home. Although nothing much relative to the larger manor, Huber’s perennial attention to period detail reveals a lavish home with sumptuous decor—her description of ‘the red room’ where they entertain is only one example of her skill in depicting the material setting—suggests a rather class-specific notion of what constitutes a modest ‘starter home.’
This is what I most appreciate about her novels—she subtly but surely points to the great differences that still exist in this stratified society, even within its upper classes. The events unfolding at the dower house make this even more apparent. Without a wife to take care of the finer details of entertaining, despite the many servants to do the work, the elder Lotd Gage turns to Lady Darby to do the honours. A woman of her times, she really is honoured by his request, and more than capable of attending to the requirements of hosting a house party that amounts to a fairly long visit, with guests staying several days, attended to by their own servants as well as those of the household. It is more than a mere social occasion. The household’s reputation, which is ultimately that of the hostess, depends on how satisfied the guests are on departure.
The particular occasion is also significant for the upper classes of the time. Kiera’s brother Trevor is engaged to the decidedly less socially impressive daughter of a merchant, whose wealth doesn’t obscure his lower status. This is a very advantageous marriage for Matilda Birnam, and both Kiera’s family and the Gages are eager to note how the young couple relate. Since Trevor’s future mother, father, and brother-in-law are also invited, this is, in fact, the perfect opportunity to do so. Kiera’s family, and Gage, are especially keen to assess the situation because of her first marriage. Among the other guests are several high-ranking politicians.
Although Kiera is the exemplary hostess that she is expected to be, things are ‘off course’ from the start. It is quickly evident that, while Matilda seems pleasant enough, her parents and brother are crass and boorish. The young woman is kept virtually under her mother’s guard, so that there is scarce opportunity for anyone to speak with her without her mother’s interference. Is there something to hide? Is there reason for the engagement to be called off, seeing as it’s a far better deal for the bride’s family?
Moreover, the revolting Jeremiah Birnam is loud and abrasive and spends much of his time rudely arguing with the other important guests about the prospective parliamentary vote on the Factory Acts. These were socially and politically divisive, and not necessarily along existing class lines. He has also rather unconventionally brought along his secretary, Portia, whom he virtually adopted after her parents’ death and raised alongside Matilda. Portia is scorned by the rest of the family. The secretary’s presence would not be unusual for a man of business—except that she is a young unmarried woman and Mrs. Birnam is very jealous of her position. Once again, the strict gender and class convictions of the time come into play, as the Gages want to be good hosts but aren’t entirely sure whether she warrants different treatment than female servants.
Ultimately, whether Portia sits at the host’s table with the guests, implying that she is of their status, fed with the servants, or ‘sent up a tray’ to eat in her room, placing her somewhere in between, is moot. She meets a brutal death, and Mr Birnam implicates himself very definitely. Of course it would be simplistic to assume, as many do, that he is the culprit. Lady Darby and Lord Gage must then get to work, with care and sensitivity, to locate the clues and the true murderer.
This is a classic locked room mystery, with victim(s) and the guilty alike all in the house, and all party guests. Huber is, as usual, effective at slowly ratcheting up the suspense as the story moves along. Perhaps because of a fairly quick start, the middle bogs down somewhat, though the change of pace isn’t so much that I lost interest. In her customary fashion, she makes the attempts by Lady Darby (and her entourage) to solve the mystery an historically intriguing, atmospheric and satisfying read.
This is the 14th book in Anna Lee Huber’s stalwart Lady Darby mystery series. Set in Warwickshire in the early 19th century, the evolving series has seen the main female character through woes and wonders both, including an abusive marriage. Her first husband’s death freed her from that traumatic youthful experience, and, at this point we find Kiera (Lady Darby) happily married to a man who is truly a soulmate. Sebastian, Lord Gage, is kind, respectful and fully in love with his accomplished wife. Though by nature reserved, she has consistently shown herself to be intelligent, observant, composed and resourceful—all qualities that fit her admirably to solve the mysteries that she encounters. Gage (as she calls him) is also handsome and charming, in both her eyes and those of their upper class circle, which makes him very much the perfect match for her, especially in contrast to her first husband.
At this point in the on-going story, the Gages and their young daughter are just settling in to their new home at his ancestral estate, Bevington Park. The senior Lord Gage, her father-in-law, had recently reconciled with his son and promised him the entire estate, but the young couple preferred to renovate the dower house on the property, to set up as their first home. Although nothing much relative to the larger manor, Huber’s perennial attention to period detail reveals a lavish home with sumptuous decor—her description of ‘the red room’ where they entertain is only one example of her skill in depicting the material setting—suggests a rather class-specific notion of what constitutes a modest ‘starter home.’
This is what I most appreciate about her novels—she subtly but surely points to the great differences that still exist in this stratified society, even within its upper classes. The events unfolding at the dower house make this even more apparent. Without a wife to take care of the finer details of entertaining, despite the many servants to do the work, the elder Lotd Gage turns to Lady Darby to do the honours. A woman of her times, she really is honoured by his request, and more than capable of attending to the requirements of hosting a house party that amounts to a fairly long visit, with guests staying several days, attended to by their own servants as well as those of the household. It is more than a mere social occasion. The household’s reputation, which is ultimately that of the hostess, depends on how satisfied the guests are on departure.
The particular occasion is also significant for the upper classes of the time. Kiera’s brother Trevor is engaged to the decidedly less socially impressive daughter of a merchant, whose wealth doesn’t obscure his lower status. This is a very advantageous marriage for Matilda Birnam, and both Kiera’s family and the Gages are eager to note how the young couple relate. Since Trevor’s future mother, father, and brother-in-law are also invited, this is, in fact, the perfect opportunity to do so. Kiera’s family, and Gage, are especially keen to assess the situation because of her first marriage. Among the other guests are several high-ranking politicians.
Although Kiera is the exemplary hostess that she is expected to be, things are ‘off course’ from the start. It is quickly evident that, while Matilda seems pleasant enough, her parents and brother are crass and boorish. The young woman is kept virtually under her mother’s guard, so that there is scarce opportunity for anyone to speak with her without her mother’s interference. Is there something to hide? Is there reason for the engagement to be called off, seeing as it’s a far better deal for the bride’s family?
Moreover, the revolting Jeremiah Birnam is loud and abrasive and spends much of his time rudely arguing with the other important guests about the prospective parliamentary vote on the Factory Acts. These were socially and politically divisive, and not necessarily along existing class lines. He has also rather unconventionally brought along his secretary, Portia, whom he virtually adopted after her parents’ death and raised alongside Matilda. Portia is scorned by the rest of the family. The secretary’s presence would not be unusual for a man of business—except that she is a young unmarried woman and Mrs. Birnam is very jealous of her position. Once again, the strict gender and class convictions of the time come into play, as the Gages want to be good hosts but aren’t entirely sure whether she warrants different treatment than female servants.
Ultimately, whether Portia sits at the host’s table with the guests, implying that she is of their status, fed with the servants, or ‘sent up a tray’ to eat in her room, placing her somewhere in between, is moot. She meets a brutal death, and Mr Birnam implicates himself very definitely. Of course it would be simplistic to assume, as many do, that he is the culprit. Lady Darby and Lord Gage must then get to work, with care and sensitivity, to locate the clues and the true murderer.
This is a classic locked room mystery, with victim(s) and the guilty alike all in the house, and all party guests. Huber is, as usual, effective at slowly ratcheting up the suspense as the story moves along. Perhaps because of a fairly quick start, the middle bogs down somewhat, though the change of pace isn’t so much that I lost interest. In her customary fashion, she makes the attempts by Lady Darby (and her entourage) to solve the mystery an historically intriguing, atmospheric and satisfying read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Bitter Cut is the 14th book of Anna Lee Huber's thrilling Lady Darby Mystery series. And if you've read any of my reviews before, you know what I'm going to say next, don't you? This is, of course, the first I've read of the series! Well, actually, I did read the anthology The Deadly Hours, which featured a Lady Darby Mystery story. But that wasn't a full-length book. I looked back in my TBR file to see what previous books of the series I actually have. Between ebooks and audiobooks, I have all 13 of the preceding books. Yay! Because I really loved this story and the characters, and I'm excited that one of these days I can have a read-a-thon of the series.
July 1833. Lady Darby and her dashing husband, Sebastian Gage, are about to settle into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warkwickshire with their young daughter. With the breach between them and Sebastian’s father recently healed, they've agreed to help host a country house party for friends and family. Kiera is also anxious to help promote a match between her brother, Trevor, and the woman he’s fallen in love with, inviting her family to join them. However, Kiera swiftly discovers that the would-be bride’s family is not without their detractions. Her brother is unpleasant. Her mother is abrasive. And her father—the prosperous industrialist Jeremiah Birnam—is brusque, discourteous, and, at times, downright rude. So when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is found murdered with Birnam standing over her body, many are content to allow him to take the blame. But neither Kiera nor Sebastian believes he did it, and in spite of his bluster and boorish behavior, they can’t let an innocent man be hung for another’s crime. Unfortunately, Birnam had his fair share of enemies at the house party, and any one of them might have struck out at his secretary in order to get to him. It's up to Kiera and Sebastian to uncover the truth. As the couple slowly inches their way closer to the truth, Kiera begins to fear that the price of solving the crime may mean sacrificing her brother’s future happiness.
I love a mystery where I am totally convinced I know who the killer is, and then I'm totally gobsmacked because I wasn't even in the ballpark! Since I didn't start from the series beginning, this was the perfect one with which to start the journey. There were enough explanations throughout the book to allow one to figure out what had happened in the past and who the main supporting characters are and how they are connected. I absolutely loved Kiera and Gage! They were a wonderful, loving couple with an adorable 15-month old daughter, Emma. Kiera's first marriage was horrid and caused so many problems for her, so she deserves the love she found with Gage. Kiera's passion is for painting, particularly portraits, but her past gives her the perfect background to work investigations with her handsome husband. The mystery was absolutely thrilling. Kiera's brother Trevor has fallen in love with a young woman whom he wants to marry, but she has the family from hell. The worst of them is Jeremiah Birnam; you'll wish he had been the killer's victim! He's rude and abrasive. He's totally against the Factory Law that is coming up for a vote. He's all about the money...never mind young children being forced to work in factories and dying from the horrible conditions! He has a female secretary, Portia, which was just not done in 1833. Who was she to the family? Was she Birnam's mistress? Why did the other family members have issues against her? Poor Portia was the victim, and she was killed in a most brutal and painful method: acid thrown in her face. Ack! She had asked to meet with Kiera the evening she was killed; what was terrifying Portia? The mystery was fantastic, and I in no way figured out the identity of the killer until it was revealed. Besides the loving relationship with Gage, I adored the time Kiera spent with her siblings Alana, Lorna and Trevor. Little Emma was just a little cutie pie! There were some fantastic supporting characters, but my favorites were Kiera's lady's maid Bree, and Gage's valet Anderley. Apparently they've been a big help with past investigations. I've got a new series to love, which always excites me; and I have plenty to keep my occupied until the next awesome book comes out!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are totally my own.
July 1833. Lady Darby and her dashing husband, Sebastian Gage, are about to settle into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warkwickshire with their young daughter. With the breach between them and Sebastian’s father recently healed, they've agreed to help host a country house party for friends and family. Kiera is also anxious to help promote a match between her brother, Trevor, and the woman he’s fallen in love with, inviting her family to join them. However, Kiera swiftly discovers that the would-be bride’s family is not without their detractions. Her brother is unpleasant. Her mother is abrasive. And her father—the prosperous industrialist Jeremiah Birnam—is brusque, discourteous, and, at times, downright rude. So when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is found murdered with Birnam standing over her body, many are content to allow him to take the blame. But neither Kiera nor Sebastian believes he did it, and in spite of his bluster and boorish behavior, they can’t let an innocent man be hung for another’s crime. Unfortunately, Birnam had his fair share of enemies at the house party, and any one of them might have struck out at his secretary in order to get to him. It's up to Kiera and Sebastian to uncover the truth. As the couple slowly inches their way closer to the truth, Kiera begins to fear that the price of solving the crime may mean sacrificing her brother’s future happiness.
I love a mystery where I am totally convinced I know who the killer is, and then I'm totally gobsmacked because I wasn't even in the ballpark! Since I didn't start from the series beginning, this was the perfect one with which to start the journey. There were enough explanations throughout the book to allow one to figure out what had happened in the past and who the main supporting characters are and how they are connected. I absolutely loved Kiera and Gage! They were a wonderful, loving couple with an adorable 15-month old daughter, Emma. Kiera's first marriage was horrid and caused so many problems for her, so she deserves the love she found with Gage. Kiera's passion is for painting, particularly portraits, but her past gives her the perfect background to work investigations with her handsome husband. The mystery was absolutely thrilling. Kiera's brother Trevor has fallen in love with a young woman whom he wants to marry, but she has the family from hell. The worst of them is Jeremiah Birnam; you'll wish he had been the killer's victim! He's rude and abrasive. He's totally against the Factory Law that is coming up for a vote. He's all about the money...never mind young children being forced to work in factories and dying from the horrible conditions! He has a female secretary, Portia, which was just not done in 1833. Who was she to the family? Was she Birnam's mistress? Why did the other family members have issues against her? Poor Portia was the victim, and she was killed in a most brutal and painful method: acid thrown in her face. Ack! She had asked to meet with Kiera the evening she was killed; what was terrifying Portia? The mystery was fantastic, and I in no way figured out the identity of the killer until it was revealed. Besides the loving relationship with Gage, I adored the time Kiera spent with her siblings Alana, Lorna and Trevor. Little Emma was just a little cutie pie! There were some fantastic supporting characters, but my favorites were Kiera's lady's maid Bree, and Gage's valet Anderley. Apparently they've been a big help with past investigations. I've got a new series to love, which always excites me; and I have plenty to keep my occupied until the next awesome book comes out!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are totally my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is a distinct comfort in returning to a long-running mystery series where the characters feel like old friends, and Anna Lee Huber’s A Bitter Cut—the fourteenth installment in the Lady Darby Mysteries—delivers exactly that. Set in July 1833, the novel gracefully balances a high-stakes murder mystery with the rich, evolving tapestry of family dynamics that I have come to love. For readers who have followed Lady Kiera Darby and Sebastian Gage from their rocky beginnings, this book serves a testament to how far they have come, both as individuals and as a couple.
The story opens with an air of celebration. Kiera and Gage are settling into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warwickshire alongside their young daughter. Even better, a long-standing, painful breach between Sebastian and his father, Lord Gage, has recently healed. To celebrate this reconciliation and to support a hoped-for betrothal between Kiera’s beloved brother, Trevor, and the woman he loves, the family agrees to host a grand country house party. Kiera is eager to play matchmaker, but the joyful atmosphere quickly sours when the prospective bride’s family arrives. The brother is thoroughly unpleasant, the mother is abrasive, and the patriarch—a wealthy, arrogant industrialist named Jeremiah Birnam—is borderline intolerable, aggressively bullying guests over the upcoming parliamentary vote on the Factory Act.
The social tension turns downright deadly when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is discovered brutally murdered, and Birnam himself is found standing over the corpse. While the other high-society guests are more than happy to pin the crime on the abrasive industrialist, Kiera and Gage’s finely tuned instincts tell them otherwise. Despite Birnam’s boorish behavior, they cannot stand by and watch an innocent man hang. Forced to pivot from relaxed hosts to active inquiry agents, the duo must navigate a house full of upper-class suspects, each with their own motives to ruin Birnam by targeting his assistant.
What makes A Bitter Cut shine so brightly is the brilliant progression of Kiera and Gage. Now fourteen books deep into their lives, their partnership has matured into a seamless, deeply intuitive force. The stark vulnerabilities and trauma that haunted Kiera in the early novels have transformed into a resilient, quiet confidence. She commands respect not just as an aristocratic woman, but as a brilliant investigator whose sharp eye for detail complements Gage’s natural charm and deductive prowess. Witnessing them balance the chaotic demands of parenthood, the delicate politics of hosting Lord Gage’s peers, and a murder investigation highlights the profound depth of their marriage. They are true equals, fiercely protective of one another and their extended family.
Huber masterfully intertwines this growth with a plot that keeps the stakes intensely personal. As threats begin to escalate against their own inner circle, Kiera is forced to confront a heartbreaking dilemma: unmasking the real killer might salvage Birnam's reputation, but it could simultaneously shatter her brother Trevor’s chances at future happiness.
Ultimately, A Bitter Cut is a standout addition to the series. It delivers the perfect combination of historical atmosphere, genuine danger, and intricate mystery, all wrapped in the warmth of friends and family. Anna Lee Huber proves once again that a long-running series doesn't have to lose its momentum; by letting her characters grow realistically, the world of Lady Darby only becomes more rewarding with every single page.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story opens with an air of celebration. Kiera and Gage are settling into their newly renovated home at Bevington Park in Warwickshire alongside their young daughter. Even better, a long-standing, painful breach between Sebastian and his father, Lord Gage, has recently healed. To celebrate this reconciliation and to support a hoped-for betrothal between Kiera’s beloved brother, Trevor, and the woman he loves, the family agrees to host a grand country house party. Kiera is eager to play matchmaker, but the joyful atmosphere quickly sours when the prospective bride’s family arrives. The brother is thoroughly unpleasant, the mother is abrasive, and the patriarch—a wealthy, arrogant industrialist named Jeremiah Birnam—is borderline intolerable, aggressively bullying guests over the upcoming parliamentary vote on the Factory Act.
The social tension turns downright deadly when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is discovered brutally murdered, and Birnam himself is found standing over the corpse. While the other high-society guests are more than happy to pin the crime on the abrasive industrialist, Kiera and Gage’s finely tuned instincts tell them otherwise. Despite Birnam’s boorish behavior, they cannot stand by and watch an innocent man hang. Forced to pivot from relaxed hosts to active inquiry agents, the duo must navigate a house full of upper-class suspects, each with their own motives to ruin Birnam by targeting his assistant.
What makes A Bitter Cut shine so brightly is the brilliant progression of Kiera and Gage. Now fourteen books deep into their lives, their partnership has matured into a seamless, deeply intuitive force. The stark vulnerabilities and trauma that haunted Kiera in the early novels have transformed into a resilient, quiet confidence. She commands respect not just as an aristocratic woman, but as a brilliant investigator whose sharp eye for detail complements Gage’s natural charm and deductive prowess. Witnessing them balance the chaotic demands of parenthood, the delicate politics of hosting Lord Gage’s peers, and a murder investigation highlights the profound depth of their marriage. They are true equals, fiercely protective of one another and their extended family.
Huber masterfully intertwines this growth with a plot that keeps the stakes intensely personal. As threats begin to escalate against their own inner circle, Kiera is forced to confront a heartbreaking dilemma: unmasking the real killer might salvage Birnam's reputation, but it could simultaneously shatter her brother Trevor’s chances at future happiness.
Ultimately, A Bitter Cut is a standout addition to the series. It delivers the perfect combination of historical atmosphere, genuine danger, and intricate mystery, all wrapped in the warmth of friends and family. Anna Lee Huber proves once again that a long-running series doesn't have to lose its momentum; by letting her characters grow realistically, the world of Lady Darby only becomes more rewarding with every single page.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Bitter Cut is a fabulous, compelling read that was hard to put down! Many scenes are worth savoring, including the birdsongs throughout the gardens, landscape, and the architectural designs. They add vivid color and texture to the early nineteenth century English countryside setting and a new, challenging inquiry for Gage and Kiera. I love seeing how Kiera has changed and blossomed in this series, and it is a joy to see the love between her and Gage! They and other regular characters, including Alana, Bree and Anderley, are a delight to see again.
Sebastian “Gage” and his wife, Kiera, were at Bevington Park, the estate of Lord Gage, Gage’s father. After a contentious relationship, Lord Gage had turned over a new leaf with Kiera and Gage, especially after they presented him with his first granddaughter, Emma, and helped him through a difficult time. Bevington Park would one day belong to Gage, and his father wanted them to move there. A compromise gave them the dower house to remodel and use as their “country home”. Kiera, an artist, loved her new studio there. She continued to help Gage with his work as a gentleman’s inquiry agent even as he learned the estate.
Lord Gage invited several political friends and their wives to his estate. Their agenda included discussions of important bills being debated in the Parliament. The Factory Act would require a team of inspectors to assess factories and mills around the country to ascertain compliance with requirements and age restrictions.
Lord Gage was a widower, so Kiera was the hostess. She organized, managed plans, and verified execution of every detail. Kiera’s sister, who loved to entertain, assisted and advised her.
Kiera invited Matilda and her family for the meetings and the ball. Matilda and Kiera’s brother, Trevor, were courting, and he wanted to marry her. Matilda was kind, intelligent, and beautiful, the daughter of a wealthy, hard-working industrialist. Mr. Birnam and his wife sorely lacked social graces. Kiera hoped their families could get better acquainted, but the Birnams pushed their own agenda against proposed factory changes.
Mr. Birnam brought his personal secretary to the meetings. Portia, the daughter of Mr. Birnam’s best friend, was orphaned at a young age. The Birnams had raised her with Matilda. As an adult, she became Mr. Birnam’s personal secretary in an era when the position was coveted by young men. Mrs. Birnam and Matilda did not like Mr. Birnam’s excessively good treatment of Portia and their travel, leading all to think she was his mistress.
Portia asked Kiera about their work as inquiry agents, and requested a private meeting with Kiera. When Kiera went to meet her, she found Portia dead, murdered. Mr. Birnam was standing over her, holding the bottle of the chemical that killed her, and suffered terrible pain as it spilled on his hands. They sent for the police, and a doctor to treat Mr. Birnam’s hands. Kiera and Gage wanted desperately to find the killer. Several dozen more guests were expected in a few days for a huge ball.
Determining suspects was a challenge. The Birnam family claimed they knew nothing about Portia. Plot twists revealed secrets instrumental in solving the inquiry, and the end was completely satisfying. I highly recommend this novel, enriched with engaging characters and period atmosphere.
Many thanks to the publisher, Berkley, who provided a pre-publication copy of this novel through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Sebastian “Gage” and his wife, Kiera, were at Bevington Park, the estate of Lord Gage, Gage’s father. After a contentious relationship, Lord Gage had turned over a new leaf with Kiera and Gage, especially after they presented him with his first granddaughter, Emma, and helped him through a difficult time. Bevington Park would one day belong to Gage, and his father wanted them to move there. A compromise gave them the dower house to remodel and use as their “country home”. Kiera, an artist, loved her new studio there. She continued to help Gage with his work as a gentleman’s inquiry agent even as he learned the estate.
Lord Gage invited several political friends and their wives to his estate. Their agenda included discussions of important bills being debated in the Parliament. The Factory Act would require a team of inspectors to assess factories and mills around the country to ascertain compliance with requirements and age restrictions.
Lord Gage was a widower, so Kiera was the hostess. She organized, managed plans, and verified execution of every detail. Kiera’s sister, who loved to entertain, assisted and advised her.
Kiera invited Matilda and her family for the meetings and the ball. Matilda and Kiera’s brother, Trevor, were courting, and he wanted to marry her. Matilda was kind, intelligent, and beautiful, the daughter of a wealthy, hard-working industrialist. Mr. Birnam and his wife sorely lacked social graces. Kiera hoped their families could get better acquainted, but the Birnams pushed their own agenda against proposed factory changes.
Mr. Birnam brought his personal secretary to the meetings. Portia, the daughter of Mr. Birnam’s best friend, was orphaned at a young age. The Birnams had raised her with Matilda. As an adult, she became Mr. Birnam’s personal secretary in an era when the position was coveted by young men. Mrs. Birnam and Matilda did not like Mr. Birnam’s excessively good treatment of Portia and their travel, leading all to think she was his mistress.
Portia asked Kiera about their work as inquiry agents, and requested a private meeting with Kiera. When Kiera went to meet her, she found Portia dead, murdered. Mr. Birnam was standing over her, holding the bottle of the chemical that killed her, and suffered terrible pain as it spilled on his hands. They sent for the police, and a doctor to treat Mr. Birnam’s hands. Kiera and Gage wanted desperately to find the killer. Several dozen more guests were expected in a few days for a huge ball.
Determining suspects was a challenge. The Birnam family claimed they knew nothing about Portia. Plot twists revealed secrets instrumental in solving the inquiry, and the end was completely satisfying. I highly recommend this novel, enriched with engaging characters and period atmosphere.
Many thanks to the publisher, Berkley, who provided a pre-publication copy of this novel through NetGalley. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Set in 1830’s Warwickshire, series heroine Keira, Lady Darby, is settling into a new home on the grounds of her father in law’s estate, and getting ready to host a long run of large house parties, culminating in a ball. While she has repaired her breach with her stern father-in-law, Lord Gage (much thanks to her small daughter Emma), there’s new family trouble brewing in the form of her brother Trevor’s planned engagement to a wealthy young woman, Matilda, with, it turns out, very abrasive parents.
Matilda’s parents are apparently at the house party mainly to fraternize with Lord Gage’s upper-class friends in an attempt to get factory bills passed. Mr. Birnam, her father, owns large factories and would like regulations relaxed. Despite his constant pressure, he’s not getting anywhere, and Trevor’s suit seems to be going nowhere fast as well. After an extremely uncomfortable dinner where the presence of Mr. Birnam’s secretary was requested at the last minute, Kiera discovers the secretary’s body later that night, dead from an acid assault.
Acid attacks were apparently common in the 1830’s as the substance was readily available, though it was often used to disfigure, not necessarily to kill. As Kiera’s husband, Gage, as well as his father, are licensed agents of the crown, they begin to investigate the crime. Kiera works with the two, as does her maid and Gage’s valet. They make an impressive team, and they begin to peel back the complex layers of tension, suspicion and ill feeling that exist within the Birnam family.
Huber’s matrix is a rich one. She delineates the family relationships in a way that helps the reader easily keep track of the different players, and Kiera’s siblings have always been a part of the books. Her brother Tervor’s heartbreak as he pursues, perhaps in vain, his lady love, are front and center in this novel. It’s obvious both Matilda and Trevor are hiding something from Kiera and Gage, which just complicates the investigation.
Because Kiera is a painter, she is excellent at observing details, and she’s pretty fearless, though by the end of the book the pressures of managing a large house party and a ball alongside a murder investigation begin to take a toll. She has a strong relationship with her husband, and loves being a mother – all these things are woven throughout the story. Huber’s storytelling style is relaxed and once you as a reader relax into her writing style, you are carried back to the 1830’s as you read.
She’s an old fashioned writer in the best sense – she obviously loves writing series fiction, and she always leaves a hanging thread to follow up in the next book. Fourteen books in, Kiera and Gage are still a captivating couple, one I look forward to reading about. The mystery in this one was pretty tricky but Huber has laid the clues for the reader, if you are deft and clever enough to follow them!
Matilda’s parents are apparently at the house party mainly to fraternize with Lord Gage’s upper-class friends in an attempt to get factory bills passed. Mr. Birnam, her father, owns large factories and would like regulations relaxed. Despite his constant pressure, he’s not getting anywhere, and Trevor’s suit seems to be going nowhere fast as well. After an extremely uncomfortable dinner where the presence of Mr. Birnam’s secretary was requested at the last minute, Kiera discovers the secretary’s body later that night, dead from an acid assault.
Acid attacks were apparently common in the 1830’s as the substance was readily available, though it was often used to disfigure, not necessarily to kill. As Kiera’s husband, Gage, as well as his father, are licensed agents of the crown, they begin to investigate the crime. Kiera works with the two, as does her maid and Gage’s valet. They make an impressive team, and they begin to peel back the complex layers of tension, suspicion and ill feeling that exist within the Birnam family.
Huber’s matrix is a rich one. She delineates the family relationships in a way that helps the reader easily keep track of the different players, and Kiera’s siblings have always been a part of the books. Her brother Tervor’s heartbreak as he pursues, perhaps in vain, his lady love, are front and center in this novel. It’s obvious both Matilda and Trevor are hiding something from Kiera and Gage, which just complicates the investigation.
Because Kiera is a painter, she is excellent at observing details, and she’s pretty fearless, though by the end of the book the pressures of managing a large house party and a ball alongside a murder investigation begin to take a toll. She has a strong relationship with her husband, and loves being a mother – all these things are woven throughout the story. Huber’s storytelling style is relaxed and once you as a reader relax into her writing style, you are carried back to the 1830’s as you read.
She’s an old fashioned writer in the best sense – she obviously loves writing series fiction, and she always leaves a hanging thread to follow up in the next book. Fourteen books in, Kiera and Gage are still a captivating couple, one I look forward to reading about. The mystery in this one was pretty tricky but Huber has laid the clues for the reader, if you are deft and clever enough to follow them!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As always, I was excited to see another book drop in the Lady Darby historical mystery series (#14). From the very beginning (The Anatomist's Wife), I have been hooked by Huber's writing, her characters, her plots and her locales. These stories have everything I look for in great reading, and this latest is no exception.
The setting in this one is new and interesting as it finds Kiera and Gage settling into their newly renovated home which is the dower house of Gage's father's country estate in Warwickshire. As Lord Gage is a widower, Kiera is nervous as she is called upon to host a political house party for her father-in-law which will also serve as a chance to meet and get to know her brother's (to be determined) fiancé and her family. Making matters even more difficult for Kiera is the abrasiveness and downright vitriolic attitude of her brother's (possibly) soon-to-be in-laws. When a young woman is gruesomely murdered followed by a servant of the house, Kiera, Gage and Lord Gage must untangle lots of twists and turns, determine the truth of certain relationships and try to circumvent and expose the lies/secrets that are running rampant.
Another element that I love so much about these books is Huber's ability to keep the mystery fresh and entertaining while also delving into the interpersonal relationships of the characters (both main and secondary). I always feel (even after 14 books) that I'm gaining more insight into and watching more personal growth in her characters which only enriches the overall experience of reading the books. As very much of a character-driven reader, I really appreciate the thought and effort that she puts into developing these 3D personalities that have me become so invested with their circumstances and lives. I felt Kiera's nerves, her frustrations and Gage's torment in wanting to help relieve some of those for her. For me, that's the mark of a truly great read.
So yes, I definitely recommend this book for historical mystery fans, and I would preface that by saying that these books are definitely made to be read in order as they build upon one another so neatly.
My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group / Berkley for providing the free early arc of A Bitter Cut for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
The setting in this one is new and interesting as it finds Kiera and Gage settling into their newly renovated home which is the dower house of Gage's father's country estate in Warwickshire. As Lord Gage is a widower, Kiera is nervous as she is called upon to host a political house party for her father-in-law which will also serve as a chance to meet and get to know her brother's (to be determined) fiancé and her family. Making matters even more difficult for Kiera is the abrasiveness and downright vitriolic attitude of her brother's (possibly) soon-to-be in-laws. When a young woman is gruesomely murdered followed by a servant of the house, Kiera, Gage and Lord Gage must untangle lots of twists and turns, determine the truth of certain relationships and try to circumvent and expose the lies/secrets that are running rampant.
Another element that I love so much about these books is Huber's ability to keep the mystery fresh and entertaining while also delving into the interpersonal relationships of the characters (both main and secondary). I always feel (even after 14 books) that I'm gaining more insight into and watching more personal growth in her characters which only enriches the overall experience of reading the books. As very much of a character-driven reader, I really appreciate the thought and effort that she puts into developing these 3D personalities that have me become so invested with their circumstances and lives. I felt Kiera's nerves, her frustrations and Gage's torment in wanting to help relieve some of those for her. For me, that's the mark of a truly great read.
So yes, I definitely recommend this book for historical mystery fans, and I would preface that by saying that these books are definitely made to be read in order as they build upon one another so neatly.
My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group / Berkley for providing the free early arc of A Bitter Cut for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Just when you think Kiera and Gage have solved every type of murder -- Boom! Acid Attack! At a house party! So much for getting back in the domestic groove. Huber hasn't slowed down the action or twisty mystery plots nor has she let up on the romance and character growth and it's book 14!
Kiera agrees to help Lord Gage host a house party for his political cronies, his newly reunited cousins and her family. Her sister Alanna's family and brother Trevor and The Birnam's (the sus family her brother wants to marry into) are all in attendance when Miss Whitlock, Mr. Birnam's personal secretary is found murdered. I usually understand the title by the end, but I'm not sure I get why this one's called "A Bitter Cut" more like "A Burning Splash." This maybe the goriest death scene Kiera's discovered in a minute.
I got excited when it looked like Kiera's siblings were going to team up with her to solve this one, but they all went their separate ways to help and it mostly came down to the core four as usual (Kiera-Gage-Anderley-Bree). There were lots more people helping to investigate than there were actual suspects in this one. I think we need to pare it down. While I love most of these characters, especially when they're helpful, there just wasn't time for anyone to shine.
My First Clue Guess = Mr. Birnam with the Oil of Vitriol in the Blue Room, but I was kept guessing right up to the end! This is an Agatha Christie-style multi-suspect manor house mystery. Huber makes plenty of room for Kiera and Gage's relationship to shine as usual. Not gonna lie, I think Trevor deserved a better love interest and was rooting for them to breakup. I was hoping he'd find a "modern girl" with actual brains that could've kept him on his toes like his sisters do. Whatever, doormats need love too, I guess.
If not for the horrible Birnam fam, this would've been a 5-star read for me, but I just hate them so much. I really wanted Lord Gage to chuck them out on their butts. I would've cheered - LOUDLY. Can we do that in Book 15?? Huber teases a couple of intriguing new cases on the final page as usual to whet our appetites for the next adventure. This far into a series and Lady Darby is still an auto-buy/read for me! Keep em' coming, Miss Anna!
Kiera agrees to help Lord Gage host a house party for his political cronies, his newly reunited cousins and her family. Her sister Alanna's family and brother Trevor and The Birnam's (the sus family her brother wants to marry into) are all in attendance when Miss Whitlock, Mr. Birnam's personal secretary is found murdered. I usually understand the title by the end, but I'm not sure I get why this one's called "A Bitter Cut" more like "A Burning Splash." This maybe the goriest death scene Kiera's discovered in a minute.
I got excited when it looked like Kiera's siblings were going to team up with her to solve this one, but they all went their separate ways to help and it mostly came down to the core four as usual (Kiera-Gage-Anderley-Bree). There were lots more people helping to investigate than there were actual suspects in this one. I think we need to pare it down. While I love most of these characters, especially when they're helpful, there just wasn't time for anyone to shine.
My First Clue Guess = Mr. Birnam with the Oil of Vitriol in the Blue Room, but I was kept guessing right up to the end! This is an Agatha Christie-style multi-suspect manor house mystery. Huber makes plenty of room for Kiera and Gage's relationship to shine as usual. Not gonna lie, I think Trevor deserved a better love interest and was rooting for them to breakup. I was hoping he'd find a "modern girl" with actual brains that could've kept him on his toes like his sisters do. Whatever, doormats need love too, I guess.
If not for the horrible Birnam fam, this would've been a 5-star read for me, but I just hate them so much. I really wanted Lord Gage to chuck them out on their butts. I would've cheered - LOUDLY. Can we do that in Book 15?? Huber teases a couple of intriguing new cases on the final page as usual to whet our appetites for the next adventure. This far into a series and Lady Darby is still an auto-buy/read for me! Keep em' coming, Miss Anna!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
Another stellar mystery from the pen of Anna Lee Huber. She proves once again that her stories belong at the top of my TBR. I love so many things about her books, the character arcs, the historical detail and the richly layered mystery that is expertly plotted. The Lady Darby books are told through the POV of Kiera, Lady Darby. Through her inner monologue, readers are treated to her insecurities as well as her strengths as she teams up with her husband in another investigation.
At the heart of A Bitter Cut, is a gruesome murder of young woman. Kiera is hosting her first big house party. Longtime fans of Kiera will appreciate how much Kiera has blossomed under the love of family and friends. Yet she finds herself juggling the duties of hostess as well as helping her dashing husband solve a murder when the secretary of one of her guests is murdered. As with many of their cases, this is a story of long buried secrets. While some details that are uncovered could have personal ramifications for a member of Kiera's family, she continues to uncover the truth before someone else is harmed, or worse, murdered.
One element I love is that Ms. Huber does not shy away from the political climate of her setting. Her historical detail is well-researched. In A Bitter Cut, Ms. Huber shines a light on the social unrest that continues to be a political issue as the lower class fights for better working and living conditions as well as the added social controversy of the new 'rich' that are elbowing their way into the upper class, disrupting the social order that has been in place for centuries.
This is not a fast paced thriller, but rather a slow unraveling as clues are skillfully parceled out. With enough twists to keep me guessing until the very end. Highly recommend! The foreshadowing in the final chapter has me eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Another stellar mystery from the pen of Anna Lee Huber. She proves once again that her stories belong at the top of my TBR. I love so many things about her books, the character arcs, the historical detail and the richly layered mystery that is expertly plotted. The Lady Darby books are told through the POV of Kiera, Lady Darby. Through her inner monologue, readers are treated to her insecurities as well as her strengths as she teams up with her husband in another investigation.
At the heart of A Bitter Cut, is a gruesome murder of young woman. Kiera is hosting her first big house party. Longtime fans of Kiera will appreciate how much Kiera has blossomed under the love of family and friends. Yet she finds herself juggling the duties of hostess as well as helping her dashing husband solve a murder when the secretary of one of her guests is murdered. As with many of their cases, this is a story of long buried secrets. While some details that are uncovered could have personal ramifications for a member of Kiera's family, she continues to uncover the truth before someone else is harmed, or worse, murdered.
One element I love is that Ms. Huber does not shy away from the political climate of her setting. Her historical detail is well-researched. In A Bitter Cut, Ms. Huber shines a light on the social unrest that continues to be a political issue as the lower class fights for better working and living conditions as well as the added social controversy of the new 'rich' that are elbowing their way into the upper class, disrupting the social order that has been in place for centuries.
This is not a fast paced thriller, but rather a slow unraveling as clues are skillfully parceled out. With enough twists to keep me guessing until the very end. Highly recommend! The foreshadowing in the final chapter has me eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through Netgalley. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5/5 stars: This Huber's fourteenth entry in the Lady Darby Mysteries series which is a Historical Mystery set in England, 1833. Featuring an artistic noblewoman and her inquiry agent husband as they find themselves investigating the heinous murder of a secretary, who work for her brother's potential father-in-law – a prosperous but brusque and rude industrialist, on the first evening of a week long house party. Using her anatomical knowledge, keen artist's eye and her and her husbands investigative skills, the two will have to sort through the suspects and their varies motives, if they're going to uncover the culprit. As they get closer to unraveling the truth, threats emerge against her loved ones and she'll begin to fear that the price of solving the crime may mean sacrificing her brother’s future happiness.
With plenty of twists and turns, Huber has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Huber's smart and witty writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that is well crafted and uniquely voiced. The historical research is evident and well done without overshadowing the overall mystery plot and providing a sense of time and place perfectly.
Huber takes on some sensitive issues; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, The Anatomist's Wife.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Huber has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects and weaves in plenty of clues and red herrings that will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Huber's smart and witty writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that is well crafted and uniquely voiced. The historical research is evident and well done without overshadowing the overall mystery plot and providing a sense of time and place perfectly.
Huber takes on some sensitive issues; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, The Anatomist's Wife.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Lady Darby #14
Publication Date: 6/23/26
Period: Georgian - 1833
Number of Pages: 384
This author has delivered yet another outstanding historical mystery. When you devour a 384-page book in a single sitting, you know you've found something special! The characters are engaging—even the ones you're meant to dislike—and the mystery keeps you guessing right up to the final reveal.
Kiera's brother, Trevor, has been courting the daughter of a prosperous manufacturer, and the best part is that the affection is mutual. Hoping to spend more time getting to know the family, Kiera and Gage, along with Lord Gage, invite them to a house party that also includes several of Lord Gage's political associates.
From the moment the Birnams arrive, Kiera and Gage realize it is going to be a very long week. Mr. Birnam is an utterly despicable man, Mrs. Birnam is disagreeable and outspoken, and their son, Jemmy, is sullen and uncooperative. The only pleasant members of the family are Matilda, Trevor's beloved, and Miss Portia Whitlock, Mr. Birnam's capable secretary.
Kiera and Gage certainly have their hands full this time around. Between managing the unpleasant Birnams, entertaining Lord Gage's political cronies, keeping the house party running smoothly, and trying to support Trevor's romance, they have precious little time to devote to a murder investigation. Unfortunately, the crime must be solved before the guests begin departing.
This is an excellent addition to the series, featuring a well-crafted mystery, a lovely countryside setting, and a varied cast of memorable characters. The story is beautifully paced and superbly executed. Bravo to the author!
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
Happy Reading!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Lady Darby #14
Publication Date: 6/23/26
Period: Georgian - 1833
Number of Pages: 384
This author has delivered yet another outstanding historical mystery. When you devour a 384-page book in a single sitting, you know you've found something special! The characters are engaging—even the ones you're meant to dislike—and the mystery keeps you guessing right up to the final reveal.
Kiera's brother, Trevor, has been courting the daughter of a prosperous manufacturer, and the best part is that the affection is mutual. Hoping to spend more time getting to know the family, Kiera and Gage, along with Lord Gage, invite them to a house party that also includes several of Lord Gage's political associates.
From the moment the Birnams arrive, Kiera and Gage realize it is going to be a very long week. Mr. Birnam is an utterly despicable man, Mrs. Birnam is disagreeable and outspoken, and their son, Jemmy, is sullen and uncooperative. The only pleasant members of the family are Matilda, Trevor's beloved, and Miss Portia Whitlock, Mr. Birnam's capable secretary.
Kiera and Gage certainly have their hands full this time around. Between managing the unpleasant Birnams, entertaining Lord Gage's political cronies, keeping the house party running smoothly, and trying to support Trevor's romance, they have precious little time to devote to a murder investigation. Unfortunately, the crime must be solved before the guests begin departing.
This is an excellent addition to the series, featuring a well-crafted mystery, a lovely countryside setting, and a varied cast of memorable characters. The story is beautifully paced and superbly executed. Bravo to the author!
I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did.
Happy Reading!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's 1833. Keira and Gage have recently reconciled with Gage's father and have renovated the dower house on his estate for their country home. They are hosting a house party. Keira has invited the family of the young woman her brother Trevor is courting. Except for the young lady Trevor is courting, the family has a number of problems. The brother is unpleasant. The mother rude and abrasive and the father - industrialist Jermiah Birnam is discourteous and downright rude.
Mr. Birnam has also brought his secretary who is, most unusually, a young woman. Keira fears that she might be a mistress snuck into the company when Birnam demands that she be invited to dine with the company. The dinner is already difficult for Keira to manage since Birnam is determined to convince Lord Gage's political guests against supporting a bill which would allow inspectors into mills and factories.
When the young secretary is found murdered with Oil of Vitriol, Keira and Gage have a murder to solve before the rest of the large house party assembles. However, they are getting no cooperation from the Birnams who should know the young woman the best.
I enjoyed this historical mystery. It is the 14th book in the series. I like seeing how Keira has grown to accept her differences with the love and support of her husband and family. I like the way Keira and Gage work together along with their personal attendants and Lord Gage to solve the crime. I also like the setting and time period of the mystery.
Mr. Birnam has also brought his secretary who is, most unusually, a young woman. Keira fears that she might be a mistress snuck into the company when Birnam demands that she be invited to dine with the company. The dinner is already difficult for Keira to manage since Birnam is determined to convince Lord Gage's political guests against supporting a bill which would allow inspectors into mills and factories.
When the young secretary is found murdered with Oil of Vitriol, Keira and Gage have a murder to solve before the rest of the large house party assembles. However, they are getting no cooperation from the Birnams who should know the young woman the best.
I enjoyed this historical mystery. It is the 14th book in the series. I like seeing how Keira has grown to accept her differences with the love and support of her husband and family. I like the way Keira and Gage work together along with their personal attendants and Lord Gage to solve the crime. I also like the setting and time period of the mystery.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I wait every year, usually impatiently for our new Lady Darby mystery. I am never disappointed! This series has a wonderful cast of characters who love and support Kiera, Mrs Gage, Lady Darby, who has had a very interesting life, which has provided her with some interesting life skills and definitely a different perspective on most things. This was supposed to be a relaxing summer getaway for Gage and Kiera, in their newly remodeled Dowdger House, on Lord Gage's estate as well as provide Kiera's brother the opportunity to spend time with the young lady he wants to propose to and get to know her family in a safe environment. Unfortunately, things quickly go south when the female secretary to Matilda's father is killed when an acid produced by her father's factory is thrown in her face just minutes before she is supposed to have a meeting, with Kiera, a meeting she asked for to be private. What follows is a tense investigation into this murder, who wanted the young lady dead, did it have to do with the business, did a family member kill her or arrange her death? What is Trevor walking into? Come along for another gripping and compelling tale with Kiera, Gage, and all their usual support staff and family present! Many thanks to #Netgally, #BerkleyPress, and the author for an opportunity to catch up with some of my favorite characters! #ABitterCut #ALadyDarbyMystery #AnnaLeeHuber #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Bitter Cut is the 14th book in the Lady Darby Mystery series by Anna Lee Huber. Set in Warwickshire in 1833 it features Lady Kiera Darby and her husband Sebastian Gage who are hosting a multi-purpose house party to celebrate their young daughter and new home in the Dower House on the estate of Sebastian's father, Lord Gage; to support the proposed marriage of Keira's brother Trevor to Matilda Birnham, daughter of rich factory owner Jeremiah Birnham; and to provide a forum for Lord Gage to promote a House of Lords bill related to factory reform.
Jeremiah's secretary is found murdered with Jeremiah standing over the body. Most assume that he is the killer, partly because the bill under discussion is aimed at reforming child labor practices in his factories. Keira and Sebastian are not convinced and investigate, eventually finding the killer. Discussions of the factory reform issue and the Birnham family dynamics were interesting.
Unlike some of the books in this series this one can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is well worth reading. Fans of the series should note that there is virtually no mention of Kiera's life, reputation, and specialized knowledge gained before she met Sebastian.
Jeremiah's secretary is found murdered with Jeremiah standing over the body. Most assume that he is the killer, partly because the bill under discussion is aimed at reforming child labor practices in his factories. Keira and Sebastian are not convinced and investigate, eventually finding the killer. Discussions of the factory reform issue and the Birnham family dynamics were interesting.
Unlike some of the books in this series this one can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is well worth reading. Fans of the series should note that there is virtually no mention of Kiera's life, reputation, and specialized knowledge gained before she met Sebastian.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mr. and Mrs. Gage, along with their young daughter Emma are just able to enjoy their newly renovated dowagers cottage on Lord Gage's estate when they must away back to the main house to assist with the hosting of a country house party. Keira's beloved brother has brought his intended and her family, The Birnams, for the party. Although her brother's intended is lovely...her family is somewhat less so. Then suddenly, a murder! The Gages are once more investigating to make sure that an innocent man isn't blamed.
I will always applaud Anna Lee Huber for continuing her Lady Darby series and NOT falling into formulaic stories. Each one is different, and although some of the great houses described are similar, each is still distinct. Keira, Gage and all of the other characters are still very human and three dimensional. I very rarely dislike a character quite so much as I did Mr. Birnams, I'm sure that is the point, but he really is just rude and unpleasant. I do not want to spoil anything, so I will say that I did not see the ending coming. I was just as surprised as the characters, which was a treat. Well done!
I will always applaud Anna Lee Huber for continuing her Lady Darby series and NOT falling into formulaic stories. Each one is different, and although some of the great houses described are similar, each is still distinct. Keira, Gage and all of the other characters are still very human and three dimensional. I very rarely dislike a character quite so much as I did Mr. Birnams, I'm sure that is the point, but he really is just rude and unpleasant. I do not want to spoil anything, so I will say that I did not see the ending coming. I was just as surprised as the characters, which was a treat. Well done!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When you read a 384 page book in 24 hours, that makes it a page-turner, right? I loved every minute of this story!
The last book hinted that Kiera's brother Trevor would be at the center if this book and I was excited to see him in the Lady Darby series again. Trevor has come a long way in these books despite not having a lot of time on-page. In this book, he's courting the daughter of a mill owner and Kiera invites the girl's family to join a house party at Lord Gage's to get to know them better. The family from trade lives up to the stereotype with rude parents and a boorish brother. The young lady is lovely, though clearly a little stifled by her controlling mother. The father's personal secretary raises eyebrows because they're a woman and he insists on having her in the social circle at the party. Kiera is acting as Lord Gage's hostess and is regularly flummoxed by newcomers who seem happy to insult and demean others...even after one of the members of their party dies from an acid attack (one of the things the father manufactures).
We have quite a crew in the house for this one - in addition to Kiera and Gage's entourage, Alana and Philip have brought their family to visit, and Gage's cousin Alfie has arrived with Loran. Lord Gage has some political friends at the party including Lord Melbourne.
The investigation was interesting despite Kiera and Gage barely leaving the house - they never actually left the grounds of Lord Gage's estate. Still, it felt like more than interviews. As has been the case in later books in the series, the climatic scene comes out of nowhere and includes an almost-deadly confrontation.
My favorite scenes are the family scenes, traditional and found. The servants get to participate in the investigation, as usual, and have some funny scenes with Kiera and Gage. Emma is walking now and we get to see Alana and Philip's kids with her. I imagine that the reason those scenes are so special is that we only get a few of them, but I wouldn't mind a few more of those wonderful scenes!
The last book hinted that Kiera's brother Trevor would be at the center if this book and I was excited to see him in the Lady Darby series again. Trevor has come a long way in these books despite not having a lot of time on-page. In this book, he's courting the daughter of a mill owner and Kiera invites the girl's family to join a house party at Lord Gage's to get to know them better. The family from trade lives up to the stereotype with rude parents and a boorish brother. The young lady is lovely, though clearly a little stifled by her controlling mother. The father's personal secretary raises eyebrows because they're a woman and he insists on having her in the social circle at the party. Kiera is acting as Lord Gage's hostess and is regularly flummoxed by newcomers who seem happy to insult and demean others...even after one of the members of their party dies from an acid attack (one of the things the father manufactures).
We have quite a crew in the house for this one - in addition to Kiera and Gage's entourage, Alana and Philip have brought their family to visit, and Gage's cousin Alfie has arrived with Loran. Lord Gage has some political friends at the party including Lord Melbourne.
The investigation was interesting despite Kiera and Gage barely leaving the house - they never actually left the grounds of Lord Gage's estate. Still, it felt like more than interviews. As has been the case in later books in the series, the climatic scene comes out of nowhere and includes an almost-deadly confrontation.
My favorite scenes are the family scenes, traditional and found. The servants get to participate in the investigation, as usual, and have some funny scenes with Kiera and Gage. Emma is walking now and we get to see Alana and Philip's kids with her. I imagine that the reason those scenes are so special is that we only get a few of them, but I wouldn't mind a few more of those wonderful scenes!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Bitter Cut is the latest Lady Darby mystery by Anna Lee Huber. I always look forward to a new Lady Darby mystery and this one did not disappoint! I love Anna Lee Huber’s writing style and I was again hooked from the first page. I also enjoy all of the historical research Ms. Huber does. It adds lots of realism and interest to her stories. This book was particularly well written as we watched Kiera navigate running her father-in-law’s house and a house party along with solving a murder and being a mother. She does it all with lots of style and help from her husband and friends. It was great to have family and friends in this book, especially some we haven’t seen lately. I also enjoyed the mystery. It ended up very differently than I expected, but it was a satisfying and well written ending. I hope Kiera and Sebastian solve many more mysteries. I will always enjoy reading them!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"A Bitter Cut" is a mystery set in 1833 in England. It is the 14th book in a series. It can be read as a standalone and didn't spoil previous mysteries. The main characters were complex, well-developed, and acted realistically. Historical details were woven into the story without slowing the pacing.
Kiera and Sebastian (and his father) investigated the murder while hosting a house party that would end with a ball. They're pressured to solve the mystery before the ball but without offending any of the politically powerful guests. Add in that the people who knew why Portia might have been murdered were either not telling the truth or not talking at all (hiding scandalous secrets). They asked questions and followed up on leads, but that provided clues with minimal context until a break in the case near the end.
There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this historical mystery.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Kiera and Sebastian (and his father) investigated the murder while hosting a house party that would end with a ball. They're pressured to solve the mystery before the ball but without offending any of the politically powerful guests. Add in that the people who knew why Portia might have been murdered were either not telling the truth or not talking at all (hiding scandalous secrets). They asked questions and followed up on leads, but that provided clues with minimal context until a break in the case near the end.
There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this historical mystery.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
Lady Darby (Keira), her husband Sebastian Gage, and their young daughter had hoped to spend some time in their new county home. However, Keira’s brother is on the verge of becoming engaged and so the almost-fiancé’s family is invited to the nearby estate of Keira’s father-in-law. Keira finds herself hostess to the house party. When one of the guests is horribly killed, Keira and Sebastian try to work out if she was the intended victim and what prompted the death.
I’ve been reading this series from the beginning and really enjoy watching Keira’s growth in her personal and professional life. She’s becoming more comfortable in her role in society while balancing her family and the mysteries she and Gage find themselves investigating.
This was another great book in the series. The mystery was great and I really liked seeing a bit more of the family relationships with Keira’s siblings and such. Looking forward to more in this series!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkely Publishing Group for an advanced copy.
Lady Darby (Keira), her husband Sebastian Gage, and their young daughter had hoped to spend some time in their new county home. However, Keira’s brother is on the verge of becoming engaged and so the almost-fiancé’s family is invited to the nearby estate of Keira’s father-in-law. Keira finds herself hostess to the house party. When one of the guests is horribly killed, Keira and Sebastian try to work out if she was the intended victim and what prompted the death.
I’ve been reading this series from the beginning and really enjoy watching Keira’s growth in her personal and professional life. She’s becoming more comfortable in her role in society while balancing her family and the mysteries she and Gage find themselves investigating.
This was another great book in the series. The mystery was great and I really liked seeing a bit more of the family relationships with Keira’s siblings and such. Looking forward to more in this series!
Thanks to NetGalley and Berkely Publishing Group for an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love the cover of this! Kiera hosts a variety of family and business and political acquaintances over the summer. Her brother is in love with Matilda whose father is a prominent business owner. When his secretary is viciously murdered, Kiera must combine investigating and hostessing duties.
The mystery is adequate, I’ve read the first few books in the series and they were fine. I loved reading about the pastimes the guests indulge in while on a country retreat - archery, picnicking, cards. Sadly this is going to be my last read in the series. There just isn’t enough immersion for me. Lord Melbourne makes an appearance though we’re barely told anything about him and you just wouldn’t know you’re in the Georgian era whatsoever. With so many historical mysteries to choose from, I’d rather focus on series that really teach me something about their period.
My endless thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for this ARC!
The mystery is adequate, I’ve read the first few books in the series and they were fine. I loved reading about the pastimes the guests indulge in while on a country retreat - archery, picnicking, cards. Sadly this is going to be my last read in the series. There just isn’t enough immersion for me. Lord Melbourne makes an appearance though we’re barely told anything about him and you just wouldn’t know you’re in the Georgian era whatsoever. With so many historical mysteries to choose from, I’d rather focus on series that really teach me something about their period.
My endless thanks to NetGalley and Berkley for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Kept reading waaay too late to finish this one. 4.5 rounded up. A great next installment in what is probably my favorite book series! While I've enjoyed each adventure, this one was especially fun to return to a house party situation, but with a very different mystery to solve-- I did not see an acid attack coming! And as the story develops, we get a nice mix of the historical and political situations at the time, without getting lost in the weeds of it.
As always, Kiera and Gage are a wonderful team and I love seeing their relationship continue to develop, as well as their family dynamics and cameos from some friends and family in past books-- plus now seeing Kiera stepping into more roles as host, and little mom friend groups :)
Can't wait for the next one- quite a tease to get Marsdale back, as he's always been one of my favorites.
Thanks to the author, netgalley, and the publisher for the ARC!
As always, Kiera and Gage are a wonderful team and I love seeing their relationship continue to develop, as well as their family dynamics and cameos from some friends and family in past books-- plus now seeing Kiera stepping into more roles as host, and little mom friend groups :)
Can't wait for the next one- quite a tease to get Marsdale back, as he's always been one of my favorites.
Thanks to the author, netgalley, and the publisher for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another great book in the Lady Darby series! It was interesting to bring Kiera and Gage's families together for a house party and get a glimpse into each of their lives. Alfie is sure growing on me since we first met him. This book primarily focuses on Trevor and his hopes to marry Matilda, who comes from a complicated and abrasive family with its own secrets and history, which need to be uncovered to solve the murder. There is some historical information about 2 bills moving through the UK's Parliament: the 1833 Factory Act & the Slavery Abolition Act. The Factory Act plays a significant role in this story, with various characters involved leading up to the vote. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series to see what Kiera & Gage have to confront next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
July 1833
Kiera, Gage and Lord Gage are hosting a house party at their country estate. The guest list includes family members, several Lords and Ladies and Trevor's love interest Matilda along with her family, the Brinams. Mr. Birnam is considered "new money" due to his ownership of factories and mills. He is strongly opposed to the Factory Act and uses every opportunity during the house party to sway the attending Lords to his point of view. When Mr. Birnam's secretary is found murdered, Kiera and Gage are tasked with solving the crime.
I always look forward to a new Lady Darby mystery. Anna Lee Huber moves her stories along with dialogue and action. Definitely one of my auto buys
This is a must read if you enjoy well researched, historical mysteries. Worthy of your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy. Opinion is mine. #ABitterCut #NetGalley
Kiera, Gage and Lord Gage are hosting a house party at their country estate. The guest list includes family members, several Lords and Ladies and Trevor's love interest Matilda along with her family, the Brinams. Mr. Birnam is considered "new money" due to his ownership of factories and mills. He is strongly opposed to the Factory Act and uses every opportunity during the house party to sway the attending Lords to his point of view. When Mr. Birnam's secretary is found murdered, Kiera and Gage are tasked with solving the crime.
I always look forward to a new Lady Darby mystery. Anna Lee Huber moves her stories along with dialogue and action. Definitely one of my auto buys
This is a must read if you enjoy well researched, historical mysteries. Worthy of your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy. Opinion is mine. #ABitterCut #NetGalley
April 24, 2026
A good addition to the series. Some of Lord Gage’s surliness has returned, and some of Kiera’s sleuthing came from overhearing other people’s conversations, but I liked this one. I thought the St Mawr siblings might have worked together and that Lord Gage would also be involved, but it was the usual Kiera, Gage, Bree, and Anderley investigating. And not as much investigating at this house party as there was secret conversations with all parties. All dialogue and no action slowed the plot in some places. It I still adore these characters and am glad to spend time with them.
It’s not the author’s fault and it doesn’t impact my review, but I hate to attempt to make the cover look like a regency romance. It should look like a
1830s historical mystery. It has none of the gritty mystery tones of the rest of the series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
It’s not the author’s fault and it doesn’t impact my review, but I hate to attempt to make the cover look like a regency romance. It should look like a
1830s historical mystery. It has none of the gritty mystery tones of the rest of the series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
For fans of: Sherry Thomas, Andrea Penrose, Tasha Alexander
Series: 14
Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌘
Genre: Historical Mystery
Violence: 🪓🪓🪓🪓
Spice: 🔥🔥
TW: Burns
Premise: Kiera’s decision to include her brother’s perspective in-laws, the Birnams, in a house party turns deadly when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is violently murdered. Is the culprit a Birnam or is another guest to blame? Will solving the crime cost Kiera her brother’s love?
Thoughts: I gravitate toward sitcoms with heart: hilarious comedy paired with likable, sympathetic characters. Huber pairs murder with heart: twisty mysteries peopled with characters whose authenticity & relationships elicit the feels. This pairing makes for page-turning novels, of which A Bitter Cut is just the latest example. It demonstrates her prowess for the English house party, a riff on the locked-room mystery. A finite number of suspects are “trapped” together in the country. Some are acquainted; others are strangers. Or so it seems. It’s up to the reader to notice the out-of-order or seemingly innocuous clues. Their task is complicated, and the story enhanced, by the relationship dynamics & backstory revelations in which the plot unfurls. It’s storytelling at its best. And in the tradition of the trope, Huber demonstrates that the skeletons in one's closet may be unpalatable but do not make one guilty of murder. Or do they? I can’t wait to discover what new & innovative method this talented author finds to embroil Kiera & husband Gage in their next perplexing mystery.
Thank you to Berkley & Netgalley for a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.
Series: 14
Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌘
Genre: Historical Mystery
Violence: 🪓🪓🪓🪓
Spice: 🔥🔥
TW: Burns
Premise: Kiera’s decision to include her brother’s perspective in-laws, the Birnams, in a house party turns deadly when Mr. Birnam’s secretary is violently murdered. Is the culprit a Birnam or is another guest to blame? Will solving the crime cost Kiera her brother’s love?
Thoughts: I gravitate toward sitcoms with heart: hilarious comedy paired with likable, sympathetic characters. Huber pairs murder with heart: twisty mysteries peopled with characters whose authenticity & relationships elicit the feels. This pairing makes for page-turning novels, of which A Bitter Cut is just the latest example. It demonstrates her prowess for the English house party, a riff on the locked-room mystery. A finite number of suspects are “trapped” together in the country. Some are acquainted; others are strangers. Or so it seems. It’s up to the reader to notice the out-of-order or seemingly innocuous clues. Their task is complicated, and the story enhanced, by the relationship dynamics & backstory revelations in which the plot unfurls. It’s storytelling at its best. And in the tradition of the trope, Huber demonstrates that the skeletons in one's closet may be unpalatable but do not make one guilty of murder. Or do they? I can’t wait to discover what new & innovative method this talented author finds to embroil Kiera & husband Gage in their next perplexing mystery.
Thank you to Berkley & Netgalley for a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
England 1833
Such a delight to be a part of another mystery solved by Lady Darby and her dashing husband Sebastian Gage. They are settling in to their new home on the property of Lord Gage and host a gathering. Lady Darby invites her brother's likely intended and her family. Mr. and Mrs. Birnam are both rude and overbearing and not at all appreciative of the olive branch extended.
When Mr. Birnam's secretary is found murdered, Lady Darby, Sebastian, Anerley and Bree get to work trying to solve the mystery. It's a twisted tale and one I didn't solve it prior to the reveal.
Thankfully, there is a tease at the end for the next mystery to be solved. It would be tragic for this series to end.
My gratitude to publisher Berkely for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Such a delight to be a part of another mystery solved by Lady Darby and her dashing husband Sebastian Gage. They are settling in to their new home on the property of Lord Gage and host a gathering. Lady Darby invites her brother's likely intended and her family. Mr. and Mrs. Birnam are both rude and overbearing and not at all appreciative of the olive branch extended.
When Mr. Birnam's secretary is found murdered, Lady Darby, Sebastian, Anerley and Bree get to work trying to solve the mystery. It's a twisted tale and one I didn't solve it prior to the reveal.
Thankfully, there is a tease at the end for the next mystery to be solved. It would be tragic for this series to end.
My gratitude to publisher Berkely for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
It's 1833, and Kiera and Gage are having guests, including the abrasive parents of the woman brother Trevor hopes to marry. When there is a murder, suspicion falls on the vulgar and obnoxious Mr. Birnam. It is a challenge to carry out an investigation with a houseful of guests, but Lord Gage is insistent that they continue, and ascertain who is responsible for this horrific crime. The guests party on as secrets are revealed. Can Kiera identify the culprit before anyone else is harmed? An enjoyable historical mystery with a strong female protagonist, this series is best read in order. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anna Lee Huber is in great form in this current installment of her Lady Darby series. I loved all the callouts to The Anatomist's Wife. Like that initial installment, this story features a gruesome murder at a house party involving Kiera Darby Gage, her investigating partner and now-husband Sebastian, and her extended family. In this case Kiera's brother Trevor has convinced her to invite his potential fiancee and in-laws to a month-long gathering hosted by Kiera's father-in-law. Political clashes, sour personalities, and shifting loyalties complicate the murder investigation. But it's delightful to see many of the family members and close friends readers have met in previous books.
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