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Miss Underhay #23
Murder at Sea
A glorious ocean liner setting sail, sunset on the horizon, and champagne on deck. All seems shipshape… until Kitty discovers a body on board. Time for some sleuthing!
Devon, 1938. Kitty Underhay is enjoying a well-deserved rest when her very upset cousin Hattie suddenly bursts in. She sobs that the gentleman she had been seeing, Richard Westonholme, seems to have vanished, taking all of her jewellery with him. As Hattie describes Richard, he sounds eerily familiar, and Kitty and her husband Matt board a ship in hot pursuit – only to find him lying in a lifeboat… dead.
As they’ve set sail, the murderer has to be on board too, but there are suspects as far as the eye can see. Could Richard’s wife have something to do with the murder? What about the rich heiress and her guardian? And is the steward hiding something fishy?
Kitty and Matt are all too aware that the clock is ticking while the suspects are trapped with no escape. Can they net the killer before the ship docks? Or will one of them be dead in the water before they reach dry land?
Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey or Verity Bright will adore this totally charming murder mystery. The perfect treat for cozy crime fans!
Devon, 1938. Kitty Underhay is enjoying a well-deserved rest when her very upset cousin Hattie suddenly bursts in. She sobs that the gentleman she had been seeing, Richard Westonholme, seems to have vanished, taking all of her jewellery with him. As Hattie describes Richard, he sounds eerily familiar, and Kitty and her husband Matt board a ship in hot pursuit – only to find him lying in a lifeboat… dead.
As they’ve set sail, the murderer has to be on board too, but there are suspects as far as the eye can see. Could Richard’s wife have something to do with the murder? What about the rich heiress and her guardian? And is the steward hiding something fishy?
Kitty and Matt are all too aware that the clock is ticking while the suspects are trapped with no escape. Can they net the killer before the ship docks? Or will one of them be dead in the water before they reach dry land?
Fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey or Verity Bright will adore this totally charming murder mystery. The perfect treat for cozy crime fans!
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2026
639 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
About the author
Helena Dixon
32 books320 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 5, 2026
Devon, England in 1938 and Matt is sent on a secret mission which takes him and Kitty on a cruise to America. It turns out there is a murderer loose on board the ship and Kitty and Matt put on their P.I. hats to find him before more deaths occur.
I loved all the details of luxury cruising as it was in 1938 - a great life style as long as you were travelling first class. The mystery was involved and it was very hard to predict the guilty party. The ending is dramatic and satisfying. I am looking forward to reading many more books in this entertaining series. 4 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I loved all the details of luxury cruising as it was in 1938 - a great life style as long as you were travelling first class. The mystery was involved and it was very hard to predict the guilty party. The ending is dramatic and satisfying. I am looking forward to reading many more books in this entertaining series. 4 stars
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 24, 2026
Kitty and Matt, once again have another murder to solve. This takes place on an unexpected voyage to America. All the characters are memorable and most are charming. Once again, I didn’t guess the murderer until the reveal. Also, Matt is to be given sensitive government papers on this voyage. There is mayhem with this task as well. This author’s words are so descriptive, it was quite easy to see the story unfold in my mind’s eye. Another great addition to this prolific series. Highly recommend. A true cozy.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Kindle Edition. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ARC. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture Kindle Edition. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
February 27, 2026
The Miss Underhay Mystery series is on of my favourite Historical Cozy mystery series and I enjoyed this newest addition to the series. In the last couple of books, Kitty and Matt have been trying to find Redvers Palmerston, who was wanted for fraud, bigamy and is wanted on suspicion of starting a fire that killed a man. Hattie, a distant cousin of Kitty arrives at her aunt and uncle's home to tell them that the man she was engaged to, had stolen her money and jewllery and disappeared. When Kitty shows her a picture of Redvers, she admits that is him, but she knew him as John Westonholme. Now it's personal. They get a call that he has purchased a ticket on a ship to go to the United States, and there are tickets waiting to Matt and Kitty to get on the same ship and arrest him. Shortly after the ship sails, Redvers is found dead in a lifeboat, stabbed. Now Kitty and Matt are looking for his killer instead. Another murder occurs, and they have to figure out if it is one killer or two. As well as the murders to solve, Matt has been recruited by Brigadier Remmington-Blythe to take a hand off from a mysterious Mr. Schmidt and turn them over to the embassy in New York. Will they find the killer? Will Matt be able to fulfil his job?
This is another great Miss Underhay Mystery. I liked that this story is a locked room mystery, as they are on a ship heading across the Atlantic. There were a few suspects, but it also looked like they were cleared, but were they really? Kitty has great instincts and she was suspicious of a few people and it seems she was right in the end. Matt and Kitty had free rein of the ship with the captain's blessing. He wanted the crimes solved before they got to New York. Once they were able to solve the murders, they still had to deal with the information coming out of Germany, which ended up being a thrilling, but scary event. I liked that Matt finally gets closure from the Redvers case and that he and Kitty made it back in time for their friend's wedding. I wonder what will be next for this couple?
This is another great Miss Underhay Mystery. I liked that this story is a locked room mystery, as they are on a ship heading across the Atlantic. There were a few suspects, but it also looked like they were cleared, but were they really? Kitty has great instincts and she was suspicious of a few people and it seems she was right in the end. Matt and Kitty had free rein of the ship with the captain's blessing. He wanted the crimes solved before they got to New York. Once they were able to solve the murders, they still had to deal with the information coming out of Germany, which ended up being a thrilling, but scary event. I liked that Matt finally gets closure from the Redvers case and that he and Kitty made it back in time for their friend's wedding. I wonder what will be next for this couple?
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When, by a convenient coincidence, a murderer Kitty and Matt Bryant have been following for just over a year buys passage on the same ocean liner as a German national with papers to hand over to the couple, they find themselves travelling to New York in the luxury of first class. With a dead body found almost as soon as they are settled into their luxurious stateroom and quite a few passengers immediately on their suspect list, they know the five day journey may not be long enough to discover the identity of the killer or connect with the person hoping to hand over German secrets. As the danger increases and New York gets ever closer can they sort everything without jeopardising their own safety?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book 23 in this excellent historical mystery series takes place a year before the outbreak of the Second World War, and everyone is on edge. The atmosphere is tense from the very start and the investigation on board an ocean liner is excellently done. I didn't guess the killer but it worked very well. There were a few lose ends I would have liked cleared up but overall it was, once again, a pleasure to read another book by one of my favourite authors.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book 23 in this excellent historical mystery series takes place a year before the outbreak of the Second World War, and everyone is on edge. The atmosphere is tense from the very start and the investigation on board an ocean liner is excellently done. I didn't guess the killer but it worked very well. There were a few lose ends I would have liked cleared up but overall it was, once again, a pleasure to read another book by one of my favourite authors.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
'Murder at Sea' is easily one of my most recent favourites in the Miss Underhay series as Helena Dixon delivers another classic cosy crime mystery, this time with a glamorous maritime setting. I flew through this in one sitting as the fast-paced plot, closed-circle setting and promise of closure on the Redvers Palmerston storyline made it impossible to put down.
Set in 1938, I appreciate that the tensions and fears of World War Two aren't downplayed in the story and is a key part of the plot, adding an additional element of intrigue. The confined setting heightens that well too as the secrets, shifting loyalties and tensions between characters all feel magnified with an impending storm that promises to derail matters.
The mystery itself is really well constructed with plenty of satisfying twists and well-placed red herrings that kept me guessing throughout (though I did suspect one small element which was proven correct but didn't spoil anything). As always, in addition to the solid case, the character dynamics add warmth and charm which helps ground the suspense in relationships I genuinely care about.
Yet again, the Miss Underhay series delivered with this being a standout instalment and a firm new favourite for me!
Thank you as always to Netgalley and Bookouture for inviting me to be a part of the book tour for 'Murder at Sea' in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
Set in 1938, I appreciate that the tensions and fears of World War Two aren't downplayed in the story and is a key part of the plot, adding an additional element of intrigue. The confined setting heightens that well too as the secrets, shifting loyalties and tensions between characters all feel magnified with an impending storm that promises to derail matters.
The mystery itself is really well constructed with plenty of satisfying twists and well-placed red herrings that kept me guessing throughout (though I did suspect one small element which was proven correct but didn't spoil anything). As always, in addition to the solid case, the character dynamics add warmth and charm which helps ground the suspense in relationships I genuinely care about.
Yet again, the Miss Underhay series delivered with this being a standout instalment and a firm new favourite for me!
Thank you as always to Netgalley and Bookouture for inviting me to be a part of the book tour for 'Murder at Sea' in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.
April 5, 2026
I enjoyed this latest in the historical mystery series featuring Kitty and Matt. I thought the book would focus on the events leading up to the wedding of Kitty's friend Alice. Instead, Kitty and Matt have to jump on an ocean liner to deal with not one, but two cases. Except for a brief portion in the beginning and end, the entire book takes place on the ship.
With this book we get the wrap-up of the over-arching story of a man Matt knew in WWI, who has been haunting him now for several books. We also get another spy-type mystery, in the lead-up to WWII.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and am intrigued by the hint of what might happen in the next book.
With this book we get the wrap-up of the over-arching story of a man Matt knew in WWI, who has been haunting him now for several books. We also get another spy-type mystery, in the lead-up to WWII.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and am intrigued by the hint of what might happen in the next book.
March 24, 2026
Two for One and we mustn’t forget the paperwork!
Yes, Kitty and Matt are back on the job…while they were visiting Kitty’s cousin Lucy, Matt is contacted by the. Previous employer, the Brigadier. It seems Matt is needed to meet up with a man on board a cruise ship heading for America for the purpose of securing some very valuable information and deliver to someone at the American Embassy.
Of course, this is not a simple clear cut assignment. There’s lots of intrigue and dangerous encounters.
You’re gonna love it. .
Yes, Kitty and Matt are back on the job…while they were visiting Kitty’s cousin Lucy, Matt is contacted by the. Previous employer, the Brigadier. It seems Matt is needed to meet up with a man on board a cruise ship heading for America for the purpose of securing some very valuable information and deliver to someone at the American Embassy.
Of course, this is not a simple clear cut assignment. There’s lots of intrigue and dangerous encounters.
You’re gonna love it. .
February 24, 2026
It's 1938 in Devon, England. As the story opens, to set the scene firmly in history's timetable, Kitty and those about her are hearing news reports of the Nazi government stripped of citizenship in Romania. A problem closer to home quickly developed, however, as Kitty's cousin Hattie bursts in in tears, saying she's been robbed. Even worse, by her gentleman friend who seems to have taken her jewelry, including a treasured keepsake, and vanished. A quick investigation later, Kitty and Matt find themselves boarding the ship Bonaventure to New York. It seems the gentleman friend may be none other than the elusive Redvers that Matt has been trying to track down for far longer than he likes. Much to their shock, they find him. Dead. That's just the beginning, of course, with lots of international intrigue quickly becoming apparent.
That's about all I'm going to share of the plot as it's a fun one, full of everything from a young girl's starry eyed romance to secret plans (military?) that relate to the war creeping every closer to them in England. On, and stolen identities and, sigh, class differences and, well, even Kitty's father in NYC, who takes them in for their brief stay, plays a role. This has become a favorite series and I find that I like the regulars and am always eager to find out what they've been up to since my last virtual visit. There are quite a few side characters to keep up with, too, I admit, but they pretty quickly differentiate themselves and showed unique personalities and backgrounds. I did miss Bertie, Kitty's trusty spaniel, but he wouldn't have enjoyed cruising most likely. Kitty's father's quick thinking was a plus, too, so his quick appearance was definitely a plus. And, hey, the Statue of Liberty gets a mention, too, a definitely perk of their unexpected trip to America.
Bottom line, if you enjoy historical fiction/mysteries, give this one a try. It works well as a standalone although past readers will grasp certain aspects far more quickly than newbies. Dixon does a great job setting the scene, both in the sense of time and aboard the ship with the increasingly anxious captain and involved characters. The plot moves along nicely and you'll enjoy meeting most of the side characters, even while suspecting them of murder most likely. Having cruised myself, it was interesting to compare Matt and Kitty's shipboard happenings and how passengers were assigned rooms, not to mention the slightly different lifeboat routines. Thanks #Bookouture for introducing me to this delightful couple of sleuths and giving me this early peek at their life and adventures.
That's about all I'm going to share of the plot as it's a fun one, full of everything from a young girl's starry eyed romance to secret plans (military?) that relate to the war creeping every closer to them in England. On, and stolen identities and, sigh, class differences and, well, even Kitty's father in NYC, who takes them in for their brief stay, plays a role. This has become a favorite series and I find that I like the regulars and am always eager to find out what they've been up to since my last virtual visit. There are quite a few side characters to keep up with, too, I admit, but they pretty quickly differentiate themselves and showed unique personalities and backgrounds. I did miss Bertie, Kitty's trusty spaniel, but he wouldn't have enjoyed cruising most likely. Kitty's father's quick thinking was a plus, too, so his quick appearance was definitely a plus. And, hey, the Statue of Liberty gets a mention, too, a definitely perk of their unexpected trip to America.
Bottom line, if you enjoy historical fiction/mysteries, give this one a try. It works well as a standalone although past readers will grasp certain aspects far more quickly than newbies. Dixon does a great job setting the scene, both in the sense of time and aboard the ship with the increasingly anxious captain and involved characters. The plot moves along nicely and you'll enjoy meeting most of the side characters, even while suspecting them of murder most likely. Having cruised myself, it was interesting to compare Matt and Kitty's shipboard happenings and how passengers were assigned rooms, not to mention the slightly different lifeboat routines. Thanks #Bookouture for introducing me to this delightful couple of sleuths and giving me this early peek at their life and adventures.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read "Murder at Sea" in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the 23rd book in the wonderful 'Miss Underhay' series and it was an exciting addition to the series. It's January 1938 and the Torbay Herald has run a story asking the public to be on the look out for Mr. Redvers Palmerston who is believed to be hiding in the Plymouth area. Matt has been searching for him for a year and the police want him on bigamy, fraud, deception and a suspicious fire that left a man dead.
Kitty and Matt are visiting her cousin Lucy and her husband Rupert at Enderley Hall. They are discussing Robert and Alice's upcoming wedding in a month and how Betty is walking out with Inspector Lewis.
Distant relative Hattie arrives at Enderley saying that her home had been robbed and her jewelry, silver candlesticks, her mother's locket and money are missing. She had been due to spend Christmas with Lucy with her new beau but he was ill and only Hattie arrived. A neighbour had seen Hattie's gentleman friend enter her home with a key. He has since disappeared from his lodging owing 2 weeks rent. Hattie shows everyone a photo of Mr. Westonholme and he looks very familiar to Matt and Kitty.
Brigadier Remmington-Blythe has a top secret assignment for Matt and he and Kitty must be on a ship leaving for America. They also believe that Redvers will be on the ship and it will be their chance to catch him.
Of course, where Kitty is trouble seems to follow and soon they are investigating not one but two murders on the ship. They have many passengers acting suspiciously and any of them could be their murderer. In the end however, the true culprit is a shocking reveal.
Kitty and Matt are still in danger when they visit her father Edgar in New York but with his help, the final piece of the puzzle is taken care of. Kitty and Matt make it back in time for the wedding with Matt being best man.
We get a glimpse at what might be Matt and Kitty's next adventure when Alice asks them to help her cousin Betty or rather Inspector Lewis. It will surely be another exciting book in the series. Looking forward to it as always.
This is the 23rd book in the wonderful 'Miss Underhay' series and it was an exciting addition to the series. It's January 1938 and the Torbay Herald has run a story asking the public to be on the look out for Mr. Redvers Palmerston who is believed to be hiding in the Plymouth area. Matt has been searching for him for a year and the police want him on bigamy, fraud, deception and a suspicious fire that left a man dead.
Kitty and Matt are visiting her cousin Lucy and her husband Rupert at Enderley Hall. They are discussing Robert and Alice's upcoming wedding in a month and how Betty is walking out with Inspector Lewis.
Distant relative Hattie arrives at Enderley saying that her home had been robbed and her jewelry, silver candlesticks, her mother's locket and money are missing. She had been due to spend Christmas with Lucy with her new beau but he was ill and only Hattie arrived. A neighbour had seen Hattie's gentleman friend enter her home with a key. He has since disappeared from his lodging owing 2 weeks rent. Hattie shows everyone a photo of Mr. Westonholme and he looks very familiar to Matt and Kitty.
Brigadier Remmington-Blythe has a top secret assignment for Matt and he and Kitty must be on a ship leaving for America. They also believe that Redvers will be on the ship and it will be their chance to catch him.
Of course, where Kitty is trouble seems to follow and soon they are investigating not one but two murders on the ship. They have many passengers acting suspiciously and any of them could be their murderer. In the end however, the true culprit is a shocking reveal.
Kitty and Matt are still in danger when they visit her father Edgar in New York but with his help, the final piece of the puzzle is taken care of. Kitty and Matt make it back in time for the wedding with Matt being best man.
We get a glimpse at what might be Matt and Kitty's next adventure when Alice asks them to help her cousin Betty or rather Inspector Lewis. It will surely be another exciting book in the series. Looking forward to it as always.
February 25, 2026
Murder at Sea by Helena Dixon finds Kitty and Matt at the home of her aunt and uncle where they had had a pleasant holiday in Yorkshire with Kitty’s cousin, Lucy, and her baby. Hattie, another relative, had just arrived with an astounding story of what she thought was love and discovered was a con after her gentleman friend had entered Hattie’s home while she was on holiday and stolen everything of value. She was heartbroken. Matt and Kitty recognized it for what I was: Redvers Palmerston had struck again. This is a story that has been a subplot for several books and was someone believed to have been dead, who had seemingly faked his own death. Matt had known him in the rehab hospital after the Great War. At the same time, Matt received a message regarding the handoff of some secret documents which he was supposed to accomplish. They received first class tickets on a ship headed for the United States. As it turned out Redvers and his “wife” were to be on the same ship.
This was a good mystery, well several, stretching Kitty and Matt to new levels of investigation. Matt’s life could be in danger with this mission for the government, as was Kitty’s by proximity. Then, a body was discovered and Kitty and Matt discovered a new partner in the captain of the ship. Kitty and Matt have grown into both experienced investigators and interesting people. Kitty is able to function in any situation, with any type of people. Dixon writes a good mystery, just enough to keep the reader interested, but without gore and overt violence. There are plenty of clues spread throughout the story and contact with any number of innocent parties. The peripheral characters were rounded out in vary degrees depending on their place in the story. Always a good read, Matt and Kitty Bryant deliver every time.
I was invited to read Murder at Sea by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #HelenaDixon #MurderAtSea
This was a good mystery, well several, stretching Kitty and Matt to new levels of investigation. Matt’s life could be in danger with this mission for the government, as was Kitty’s by proximity. Then, a body was discovered and Kitty and Matt discovered a new partner in the captain of the ship. Kitty and Matt have grown into both experienced investigators and interesting people. Kitty is able to function in any situation, with any type of people. Dixon writes a good mystery, just enough to keep the reader interested, but without gore and overt violence. There are plenty of clues spread throughout the story and contact with any number of innocent parties. The peripheral characters were rounded out in vary degrees depending on their place in the story. Always a good read, Matt and Kitty Bryant deliver every time.
I was invited to read Murder at Sea by Bookoutre. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #HelenaDixon #MurderAtSea
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It was 1938 and Kitty and her husband Matt, were at Kitty's cousin's for a well earned break when Matt was contacted by both the Brigadier and Chief Inspector Greville. He and Kitty were booked to travel to the docks at 6am the following morning - a stealthy exchange needed to take place on board; plus a person Matt had been after for a long time was supposedly also going to be on board. The Bonadventure was a luxury cruise ship, heading for New York, and would take five days to get there. But not long after they boarded, a body was found in one of the lifeboats; the person had been murdered.
Matt & Kitty had their own PI business and when Captain Cox heard this, he asked them to investigate. The killer would likely be on board, and they needed to find them before they arrived in New York, and they escaped. Kitty and Matt could immediately see there were plenty of suspects; whittling them down to one was going to be a challenge. And then a second person was murdered...
Murder at Sea is #23 in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and I loved it, as I have each and every one before it! I hope Ms Dixon continues to write this series, along with her new Detective series which I'm also enjoying, for a long time to come! Kitty and Matt are a great team, although Bertie was left behind this time - can you imagine him on a ship!! - but I'm sure we'll catch up with his mischief making next book. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
Matt & Kitty had their own PI business and when Captain Cox heard this, he asked them to investigate. The killer would likely be on board, and they needed to find them before they arrived in New York, and they escaped. Kitty and Matt could immediately see there were plenty of suspects; whittling them down to one was going to be a challenge. And then a second person was murdered...
Murder at Sea is #23 in the Miss Underhay series by Helena Dixon and I loved it, as I have each and every one before it! I hope Ms Dixon continues to write this series, along with her new Detective series which I'm also enjoying, for a long time to come! Kitty and Matt are a great team, although Bertie was left behind this time - can you imagine him on a ship!! - but I'm sure we'll catch up with his mischief making next book. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
February 23, 2026
Kitty Underhay is looking forward to her friend Alice’s wedding coming up fairly soon. However, when her cousin Hattie bursts in with upsetting news, Kitty and her husband Matt take action. Kitty and Matt had looked forward to meeting the man Hattie was seeing during the holidays, but he begged off as he said he was feeling unwell. It was much more than that sadly. He has disappeared, but not without absconding with Hattie’s money and her jewelry.
Naturally, Kitty and Matt spring into action. As Matt begins making inquiries, it quickly becomes clear that this scoundrel is wanted for far more serious offenses than defrauding Hattie. When they discover he is about to sail across the ocean, they make a bold decision to board the ship themselves, determined to confront him and see justice served.
But before Matt can even question the man, he is found dead in a lifeboat.
With a murderer clearly aboard and the ship bound for its destination, Kitty and Matt—now well established as private investigators—must unravel the mystery before the vessel docks. The confined setting heightens the tension, and the stakes feel deliciously high as the couple races to uncover the truth.
I have been thoroughly enjoying this series, and this installment is no exception. Kitty and Matt are a delightful pair whose partnership—both personal and professional—continues to charm. Their teamwork feels natural and engaging, and the maritime setting adds an extra layer of intrigue. I’m already looking forward to seeing what adventure awaits them next.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Naturally, Kitty and Matt spring into action. As Matt begins making inquiries, it quickly becomes clear that this scoundrel is wanted for far more serious offenses than defrauding Hattie. When they discover he is about to sail across the ocean, they make a bold decision to board the ship themselves, determined to confront him and see justice served.
But before Matt can even question the man, he is found dead in a lifeboat.
With a murderer clearly aboard and the ship bound for its destination, Kitty and Matt—now well established as private investigators—must unravel the mystery before the vessel docks. The confined setting heightens the tension, and the stakes feel deliciously high as the couple races to uncover the truth.
I have been thoroughly enjoying this series, and this installment is no exception. Kitty and Matt are a delightful pair whose partnership—both personal and professional—continues to charm. Their teamwork feels natural and engaging, and the maritime setting adds an extra layer of intrigue. I’m already looking forward to seeing what adventure awaits them next.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Intrigue at sea when you join Matt and Kitty on a transatlantic voyage to the USA in 1938.
The Bryants are visiting Kitty’s cousin Lucy and her family when they get information that the man they’ve been seeking, Redvers Palmerston, has somehow fleeced Kitty’s cousin Hattie, and absconded, possibly to America along with his current “wife”. Then Matt gets a call from Whitehall. The brigadier asked him to board the same ship that Redvers has booked in order to connect with a German defector who has some information to pass along to the government. What a coincidence! And off they go.
This cozy mystery continues the long running search for Matt’s military acquaintance who has been implicated in several scandals including bigamy. The story becomes complicated as Matt and Kitty happen on not one, but two murders aboard the ship. The task to intercept the German adds another dimension to their journey but not much is really made of that except that they encounter another adversary.
The main focus is always the details about the time and location as the historical details are of most interest to me. I am always surprised that Matt and Kitty only go first class so they experience all the luxuries of travel accommodations on their missions. One of the few series that I am scrupulous about following, I always enjoy the descriptions of clothes, social mores, activities, and interactions that the couple has with others.
If you like descriptive cozy mysteries then you will appreciate these books. This is #23 and the installments should be read in order for most enjoyment.
Bookouture Blog Spot Tour for 2-24-2026
The Bryants are visiting Kitty’s cousin Lucy and her family when they get information that the man they’ve been seeking, Redvers Palmerston, has somehow fleeced Kitty’s cousin Hattie, and absconded, possibly to America along with his current “wife”. Then Matt gets a call from Whitehall. The brigadier asked him to board the same ship that Redvers has booked in order to connect with a German defector who has some information to pass along to the government. What a coincidence! And off they go.
This cozy mystery continues the long running search for Matt’s military acquaintance who has been implicated in several scandals including bigamy. The story becomes complicated as Matt and Kitty happen on not one, but two murders aboard the ship. The task to intercept the German adds another dimension to their journey but not much is really made of that except that they encounter another adversary.
The main focus is always the details about the time and location as the historical details are of most interest to me. I am always surprised that Matt and Kitty only go first class so they experience all the luxuries of travel accommodations on their missions. One of the few series that I am scrupulous about following, I always enjoy the descriptions of clothes, social mores, activities, and interactions that the couple has with others.
If you like descriptive cozy mysteries then you will appreciate these books. This is #23 and the installments should be read in order for most enjoyment.
Bookouture Blog Spot Tour for 2-24-2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Devon, 1938. Kitty Bryant is enjoying time with family when her very upset cousin Hattie suddenly bursts in. She sobs that the gentleman she had been seeing, Richard Westonholme, seems to have vanished, taking all of her jewellery & money with him. As Hattie describes Richard, he sounds eerily familiar. Then Matt is tasked with receiving some documents from a german defector. So Kitty and her husband Matt fin themselves on board a ship bound for New York the same ship Westonholme has booked passage on. Soon after they’ve set sail Westonholme is found lying in a lifeboat… dead. As they’ve set sail, the murderer has to be on board too. Kitty and Matt are all too aware that the clock is ticking while the suspects are trapped with no escape.
The twenty third book in this long running riveting series, it could be read on its own. I love both Kitty & Matt & have loved how well they work together & have become a true partnership. The case is intriguing & not everyone is who they seem. There are a few suspects but plenty of red herrings & twists & turns. I suspected who the murderer was & for once I was right but I’d no idea why until Kitty confronted them. We were also teased with the couple’s next case. I would have liked to have known what happened to the defector
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The twenty third book in this long running riveting series, it could be read on its own. I love both Kitty & Matt & have loved how well they work together & have become a true partnership. The case is intriguing & not everyone is who they seem. There are a few suspects but plenty of red herrings & twists & turns. I suspected who the murderer was & for once I was right but I’d no idea why until Kitty confronted them. We were also teased with the couple’s next case. I would have liked to have known what happened to the defector
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
April 2, 2026
I can't believe we're finally wrapping up the Redvers story, a plot point that has been hanging over this series for a while, but at long last Kitty, Matt and justice (of a sort) catch him.
Chasing Redvers, the pair board a ship bound for America, but it isn't long before a body is found. This isn't just a murder story however, the drum beat of war, of the reality of living in 1938 is starting up all around them. There are elements of a thriller in this too - or at least a cosy version of a thriller. With secret identities, spies, dead drops and more. It's not the most realistic and there were certainly moments when I was rolling my eyes at some... interesting choices our heroes made, but it's an honest attempt.
The boat location was a fun one, isolating our suspects and giving a change of scenery, as well as adding a time constraint - the crimes need to be solved before they dock in America.
All in all, this was a solid and entertaining mystery but it almost suffers by being about Redvers. We have been on his trail for so long now and so much has been built up around him that it would be next to impossible to do it justice. Not to worry however, there is a new hook at the end of this one, and the promise of a new juicy mystery. Roll on book 24!
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
Chasing Redvers, the pair board a ship bound for America, but it isn't long before a body is found. This isn't just a murder story however, the drum beat of war, of the reality of living in 1938 is starting up all around them. There are elements of a thriller in this too - or at least a cosy version of a thriller. With secret identities, spies, dead drops and more. It's not the most realistic and there were certainly moments when I was rolling my eyes at some... interesting choices our heroes made, but it's an honest attempt.
The boat location was a fun one, isolating our suspects and giving a change of scenery, as well as adding a time constraint - the crimes need to be solved before they dock in America.
All in all, this was a solid and entertaining mystery but it almost suffers by being about Redvers. We have been on his trail for so long now and so much has been built up around him that it would be next to impossible to do it justice. Not to worry however, there is a new hook at the end of this one, and the promise of a new juicy mystery. Roll on book 24!
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
March 25, 2026
1938, Kitty and Matt take an unexpected sailing to New York on the hunt for a thief who has broken the heart of their friend Hattie. There is also a secret mission of national importance...
Murder at Sea is the 23rd book in the Kitty Underhay (now Mrs Bryant) series of historical murder mysteries set during the 1930s.
Kitty and Matt have been trying to hunt down Redvers Palmerson over the last few books (as a background subplot but now it takes centre stage). They are finally closing in on bringing him to justice when he joins a ship headed for New York so they have no choice but to jump aboard as well. In the wider world, Nazi Germany is ready to ramp up its agenda so Matt is trying to liaise with a potential defector also on board.
It doesn't take long for a murder to occur and Matt and Kitty are kept busy trying to identify danger on the ship. I liked the personal link due to Hattie being robbed and discarded, but also the professional dynamic as detectives with a matter of national security.
I enjoyed the setting on the ship and felt this allowed authentic historical detail about the class and gender norms that governed behaviour and expectations.
Murder at Sea is an enjoyable murder mystery as WW2 looms...
Murder at Sea is the 23rd book in the Kitty Underhay (now Mrs Bryant) series of historical murder mysteries set during the 1930s.
Kitty and Matt have been trying to hunt down Redvers Palmerson over the last few books (as a background subplot but now it takes centre stage). They are finally closing in on bringing him to justice when he joins a ship headed for New York so they have no choice but to jump aboard as well. In the wider world, Nazi Germany is ready to ramp up its agenda so Matt is trying to liaise with a potential defector also on board.
It doesn't take long for a murder to occur and Matt and Kitty are kept busy trying to identify danger on the ship. I liked the personal link due to Hattie being robbed and discarded, but also the professional dynamic as detectives with a matter of national security.
I enjoyed the setting on the ship and felt this allowed authentic historical detail about the class and gender norms that governed behaviour and expectations.
Murder at Sea is an enjoyable murder mystery as WW2 looms...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another instalment in this delightful historical cozy crime series.
Kittie and Matt set sail for New York in pursuit of their old adversary Redvers Palmerston.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. My review is given voluntarily.
Although this is the the twenty third book in the series it enjoyed as a stand alone. However, reading the series from the start would add context.
I really enjoy the historical aspect of this series which charmingly captures the essence of its time and setting. Helena Dixon brings the era alive with historical details. In this book Dixon brings alive first class travel on a liner.
The writing style is competent and flows well. The investigation of the crime and its eventual resolution is well done and plausible.
With regard to characterisation, Kitty and Matt are likable without being irritating. However, I feel I do not know much about their thoughts and feelings and more particularly their foibles.
No pets this but hopefully they will be back in the next instalment
This book would appeal to anyone looking for historical escapism that is competent but not too taxing
Kittie and Matt set sail for New York in pursuit of their old adversary Redvers Palmerston.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC. My review is given voluntarily.
Although this is the the twenty third book in the series it enjoyed as a stand alone. However, reading the series from the start would add context.
I really enjoy the historical aspect of this series which charmingly captures the essence of its time and setting. Helena Dixon brings the era alive with historical details. In this book Dixon brings alive first class travel on a liner.
The writing style is competent and flows well. The investigation of the crime and its eventual resolution is well done and plausible.
With regard to characterisation, Kitty and Matt are likable without being irritating. However, I feel I do not know much about their thoughts and feelings and more particularly their foibles.
No pets this but hopefully they will be back in the next instalment
This book would appeal to anyone looking for historical escapism that is competent but not too taxing
February 9, 2026
I particularly enjoyed this book, which is part of a fabulous cozy crime series, based just after the war. The reader is charmed and the characters are like pulling on a favourite jumper and immediately lost in their lives and adventures.
This book sees an adventure on a cruise ship and the now married detective couple are tasked with apprehension of a criminal who has eluded them before. Events do not have an auspicious start when he is found dead, abandoned in a lifeboat.
The plot is very well crafted and the reader is introduced to lots more characters who set the scene if the era well and the suspense is maintained at a good pace. I enjoyed the end how the story was unravelled to its conclusion.
Things a fabulous series and although they can be read as standalone novels I would highly recommend reading as a series to gain a fuller understanding of the characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book sees an adventure on a cruise ship and the now married detective couple are tasked with apprehension of a criminal who has eluded them before. Events do not have an auspicious start when he is found dead, abandoned in a lifeboat.
The plot is very well crafted and the reader is introduced to lots more characters who set the scene if the era well and the suspense is maintained at a good pace. I enjoyed the end how the story was unravelled to its conclusion.
Things a fabulous series and although they can be read as standalone novels I would highly recommend reading as a series to gain a fuller understanding of the characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2026
MURDER AT SEA is the 23rd novel in the Miss Underhay Mystery series by HELENA DIXON. It is an exciting story which takes place on a passenger ship travelling from Plymouth to New York. Kitty and Matt, who have a private detective agency, set off at the last minute to follow a wanted criminal who is running away with Aunt Hattie’s money, as well as that of several other women who fell for his charm. Matt is also expecting to receive a package from a German defector. This could be very dangerous as it is 1938 and British/German relations are very tense……
The characters are interesting and tension mounts as the man they are following ends up dead in a lifeboat. Working closely with the captain, keeping things quiet so as not to upset the passengers, Kitty and Matt try to keep things looking normal as they try and flush out the murderer. ……..
This is a most enjoyable read, and one I recommend to anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are competely my own.
The characters are interesting and tension mounts as the man they are following ends up dead in a lifeboat. Working closely with the captain, keeping things quiet so as not to upset the passengers, Kitty and Matt try to keep things looking normal as they try and flush out the murderer. ……..
This is a most enjoyable read, and one I recommend to anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bookouture. The opinions in this review are competely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review Murder at Sea (A Miss Underhay Mystery Book 23) by Helena Dixon.
This was my first time reading Helena Dixon, and jumping into book 23 might sound wild but it honestly worked! While I can tell there’s a rich history between the characters, I never felt completely lost.
I loved the ocean liner setting. A murder at sea, a confined cast of suspects, and the pre–World War II tension in the background made for a suspenseful and cozy read all at once. Kitty and Matt are such a strong investigative duo, and I really enjoyed their dynamic.
The mystery kept me guessing, and the twists were satisfying without feeling overcomplicated. This definitely made me curious about going back to read earlier books in the series.
A solid, classic cozy mystery. Perfect for fans of historical whodunnits with charm and intrigue.
This was my first time reading Helena Dixon, and jumping into book 23 might sound wild but it honestly worked! While I can tell there’s a rich history between the characters, I never felt completely lost.
I loved the ocean liner setting. A murder at sea, a confined cast of suspects, and the pre–World War II tension in the background made for a suspenseful and cozy read all at once. Kitty and Matt are such a strong investigative duo, and I really enjoyed their dynamic.
The mystery kept me guessing, and the twists were satisfying without feeling overcomplicated. This definitely made me curious about going back to read earlier books in the series.
A solid, classic cozy mystery. Perfect for fans of historical whodunnits with charm and intrigue.
March 14, 2026
This book wraps up a secondary mystery introduced earlier involving a fellow soldier Matt knew during the Great War. While Matt had been recovering from his wounds, the other soldier had been pronounced dead. But lately the man - or someone looking exactly like him - had been appearing in several places. He’s been romancing women with money, sometimes even going through a marriage ceremony, and then stealing from them. Matt gets a tip that the man has booked a trip to America, so he and Kitty follow along. But just after the ship departs, they find the man on a lifeboat, stabbed to death. Knowing that the killer is also on board, they have to discover the identity before the ship lands in New York. It was interesting to learn what the cruises were like in the late 1930s and how important class distinction was then.
January 18, 2026
3.75 stars rounded up. Something a little different to our usual Devon fare, as Kitty and Matt take to the high seas, after a visit to her cousin at Enderley is cut short with a request for a mission involving a defecting German and the possibility of apprehending Redvers Palmerston, Matt’s former colleague who faked his own death. I couldn’t quite picture the ship and layout, so when it was described how they navigated around, it was harder for me to guess possible suspects based on who could have been where…
Overall a decent cosy historical mystery, perhaps not quite at the normal level of the Devon-based books if I’m being totally honest.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
Overall a decent cosy historical mystery, perhaps not quite at the normal level of the Devon-based books if I’m being totally honest.
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I absolutely loved this book! It was fast-paced, suspenseful, and far from your typical 'silly' murder mystery. The setting on a ship was brilliant; the fact that the characters are trapped with a killer and have nowhere to escape adds such a claustrophobic layer of tension.
I particularly enjoyed Kitty and Matt. Their partnership was a highlight, and I loved how they supported one another while racing to solve the mystery. My favorite moments were their private strategy sessions where they broke down the suspects and traded theories. Overall, this was a wonderful read. I’m excited to dive into the previous books in this series and can’t wait for the next installment!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I particularly enjoyed Kitty and Matt. Their partnership was a highlight, and I loved how they supported one another while racing to solve the mystery. My favorite moments were their private strategy sessions where they broke down the suspects and traded theories. Overall, this was a wonderful read. I’m excited to dive into the previous books in this series and can’t wait for the next installment!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve been looking forward to reading Murder at Sea, and I really enjoyed it.
Matt and Kitty unexpectedly end up on another trip to New York, this time on the trail of a long term adversary.
I had a great time trying to solve the murders alongside Kitty and Matt. There were several excellent suspects, and being on board a ship made it harder to get information about them. The plot was good, moving in an unexpected direction several times.
I always enjoy spending time with Kitty and Matt, and although I missed the animals, Alice, and other friends, there was always plenty to keep me entertained.
Overall, this was an excellent mystery, with unexpected turns in the plot. I recommend the whole series.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
Matt and Kitty unexpectedly end up on another trip to New York, this time on the trail of a long term adversary.
I had a great time trying to solve the murders alongside Kitty and Matt. There were several excellent suspects, and being on board a ship made it harder to get information about them. The plot was good, moving in an unexpected direction several times.
I always enjoy spending time with Kitty and Matt, and although I missed the animals, Alice, and other friends, there was always plenty to keep me entertained.
Overall, this was an excellent mystery, with unexpected turns in the plot. I recommend the whole series.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Kitty's cousin reports that she has been swindled by her new gentleman friend, which is a familiar tale to Kitty & Matt, who have been on the trail of Redvers Palmerson for several books now. Matt gets a secret assignment that can be completed alongside the hunt for Redvers by taking an ocean trip to America. This quickly leads to a dead body, conspirators, and other people on the same mission as Kitty & Matt with a bone to pick with Redvers. I've enjoyed the recent books that keep taking Kitty & Matt off on adventures, and a boat setting was another fun adventure.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
January 23, 2026
In the next book in the Miss Underhay series, MURDER AT SEA by Helena Dixon, Kitty is visiting her cousin Lucy at Lucy’s parents’ home at Enderley Hall. Hattie, the elder cousin of Kitty and Lucy, appears in the hall distressed because her jewelry and money are gone. Why has Hattie been robbed? Who has robbed Hattie?
Kitty is now married to Matt, and they are both private investigators. The ship is an interesting setting. While the mystery is enjoyable, life with Kitty and Matt is what keeps me reading the mysteries in this series. I look forward to reading future books. Thank you, Bookouture and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of MURDER AT SEA.
Kitty is now married to Matt, and they are both private investigators. The ship is an interesting setting. While the mystery is enjoyable, life with Kitty and Matt is what keeps me reading the mysteries in this series. I look forward to reading future books. Thank you, Bookouture and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of MURDER AT SEA.
February 24, 2026
I really look forward to each new release in this series, so when I realized that the latest book was out, I was chuffed that I had something good to read today…
and as you could tell by my rating, that just didn’t eventuate. I loved the start, set at Enderley Hall with Lucy and the fam, but as soon as things took a nautical turn, it just lost me. It just became dull and uninteresting. I wasn’t engaged with the other characters, and I didn’t find the case interesting. We did get a resolution to an ongoing plot point, but even that couldn’t save me from just finding this a tad boring. Hoping it was more a me problem, and am looking forward to the next book.
and as you could tell by my rating, that just didn’t eventuate. I loved the start, set at Enderley Hall with Lucy and the fam, but as soon as things took a nautical turn, it just lost me. It just became dull and uninteresting. I wasn’t engaged with the other characters, and I didn’t find the case interesting. We did get a resolution to an ongoing plot point, but even that couldn’t save me from just finding this a tad boring. Hoping it was more a me problem, and am looking forward to the next book.
February 24, 2026
I'm a devoted fan of this series, and this new installment is another solid, atmospheric mystery.
The cold, enclosed setting on the ocean liner works beautifully, adding tension and a sense of isolation as Kitty and Matt navigate a mix of secrets and complicated personalities.
I loved how the investigation unfolded: engaging, well‑paced, and full of that familiar charm I expect from this series.
The dynamic between Kitty and Matt remains one of the highlights, and the story hints at interesting developments ahead.
Entertaining, immersive, and highly enjoyable as the rest of the series.
Many thanks for the digital copy; all opinions are my own.
The cold, enclosed setting on the ocean liner works beautifully, adding tension and a sense of isolation as Kitty and Matt navigate a mix of secrets and complicated personalities.
I loved how the investigation unfolded: engaging, well‑paced, and full of that familiar charm I expect from this series.
The dynamic between Kitty and Matt remains one of the highlights, and the story hints at interesting developments ahead.
Entertaining, immersive, and highly enjoyable as the rest of the series.
Many thanks for the digital copy; all opinions are my own.
February 25, 2026
all out to sea
More bodies than one wants to find on a hurried transatlantic crossing, while carrying top secret documents. Spies, counter spies, and way too many suspects for role of murderer. Matt and Kitty only have a few days to sort through the maze of clues,make a dead drop while avoiding their unknown watchers, sort out some young loves, AND of course, solve the double murder!!
This book is set just prior to the outbreak of WWII and the insights to cruising at that time is fascinating.
Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a pot of tea, a tiered tray of delicacies, and read this book!
More bodies than one wants to find on a hurried transatlantic crossing, while carrying top secret documents. Spies, counter spies, and way too many suspects for role of murderer. Matt and Kitty only have a few days to sort through the maze of clues,make a dead drop while avoiding their unknown watchers, sort out some young loves, AND of course, solve the double murder!!
This book is set just prior to the outbreak of WWII and the insights to cruising at that time is fascinating.
Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a pot of tea, a tiered tray of delicacies, and read this book!
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