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The Butler
From the
New York Times
-bestselling A glamorous French villa. A carefully curated guest list. A body in the pool.
The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter—with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler—has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.
Baxter's latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface . . .
When one of the guests is found dead in the villa's glittering pool, the unflappable Baxter must assist the gendarmes in determining who's responsible. With some standing to gain and others motivated to take it away, fingers are pointed in all directions. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing—but what if he too becomes a target?
The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter—with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler—has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.
Baxter's latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface . . .
When one of the guests is found dead in the villa's glittering pool, the unflappable Baxter must assist the gendarmes in determining who's responsible. With some standing to gain and others motivated to take it away, fingers are pointed in all directions. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing—but what if he too becomes a target?
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2026
About the author
Clare Mackintosh
34 books12.6k followersWelcome to my Goodreads profile! Whether you're new to my work, or a hard-core fan, it's lovely to see you here. My latest book is OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES, the third book in my DC Ffion Morgan series. Like THE LAST PARTY and A GAME OF LIES, this is designed to be read as a standalone, but if you've followed Ffion and Leo from the beginning, I think you'll love seeing where OTHER PEOPLE'S HOUSES takes them.
If this is the first time we're meeting, welcome! In addition to the books above, I'm the author of I LET YOU GO, I SEE YOU, LET ME LIE and HOSTAGE - page-turning thrillers that have sold more than three million copies across 40 countries, and hit bestseller lists including The Sunday Times and The New York Times. I also wrote the emotional rollercoaster, AFTER THE END: a family drama about an impossible choice that threatens to tear a couple apart. It's the most personal novel I've written, and I've loved hearing from readers who have connected with it. In 2024 I released a memoir, I PROMISE IT WON'T ALWAYS HURT LIKE THIS, based on my experiences of navigating grief following the loss of my son eighteen years ago. It's a book to offer hope when you feel as though there's none to be had; a book to give to a friend when you don't know what to say.
Coming in 2026 is what I'm boldly going to tell you is my best book yet... a standalone thriller with a twist that'll knock your socks off! It's called IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK, and I would love you to add it to your shelf right now!
I love connecting with my readers, and there are plenty of ways you can get a sneak peek at what's going on behind the scenes. My Facebook group offers reading recommendations and exclusive extras to members (just search online for 'The Clare Mackintosh Book Club'), or if it's general chit chat you're after, please do follow me on Instagram, where I go to avoid writing, and to share snippets of my life in rural Wales, complete with three spaniels and Pete the goat. I'm also on TikTok, much to the dismay of my three teenagers...
* * *
With over three million copies of her books sold worldwide, number one bestseller Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of I Let You Go, which was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller and the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015. It also won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year in 2016. She has since written seven more bestselling novels. Together, her books have been translated into 40 languages and spent more than sixty-five weeks in The Sunday Times bestseller lists.
Clare is patron of the Silver Star Society, a charity based at the John Radcliffe hospital in Oxford, which supports parents experiencing high-risk or difficult pregnancies.
* * *
For more information find Clare on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or TikTok at @ClareMackWrites
#ILetYouGo #ISeeYou #LetMeLie #AftertheEnd #HostageBook #TheLastParty #AGameOfLies #IPromise #OtherPeoplesHouses #ItsNotWhatYouThink
If this is the first time we're meeting, welcome! In addition to the books above, I'm the author of I LET YOU GO, I SEE YOU, LET ME LIE and HOSTAGE - page-turning thrillers that have sold more than three million copies across 40 countries, and hit bestseller lists including The Sunday Times and The New York Times. I also wrote the emotional rollercoaster, AFTER THE END: a family drama about an impossible choice that threatens to tear a couple apart. It's the most personal novel I've written, and I've loved hearing from readers who have connected with it. In 2024 I released a memoir, I PROMISE IT WON'T ALWAYS HURT LIKE THIS, based on my experiences of navigating grief following the loss of my son eighteen years ago. It's a book to offer hope when you feel as though there's none to be had; a book to give to a friend when you don't know what to say.
Coming in 2026 is what I'm boldly going to tell you is my best book yet... a standalone thriller with a twist that'll knock your socks off! It's called IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK, and I would love you to add it to your shelf right now!
I love connecting with my readers, and there are plenty of ways you can get a sneak peek at what's going on behind the scenes. My Facebook group offers reading recommendations and exclusive extras to members (just search online for 'The Clare Mackintosh Book Club'), or if it's general chit chat you're after, please do follow me on Instagram, where I go to avoid writing, and to share snippets of my life in rural Wales, complete with three spaniels and Pete the goat. I'm also on TikTok, much to the dismay of my three teenagers...
* * *
With over three million copies of her books sold worldwide, number one bestseller Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of I Let You Go, which was a Sunday Times and New York Times bestseller and the fastest-selling title by a new crime writer in 2015. It also won the Theakston Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year in 2016. She has since written seven more bestselling novels. Together, her books have been translated into 40 languages and spent more than sixty-five weeks in The Sunday Times bestseller lists.
Clare is patron of the Silver Star Society, a charity based at the John Radcliffe hospital in Oxford, which supports parents experiencing high-risk or difficult pregnancies.
* * *
For more information find Clare on Facebook, Instagram, Threads or TikTok at @ClareMackWrites
#ILetYouGo #ISeeYou #LetMeLie #AftertheEnd #HostageBook #TheLastParty #AGameOfLies #IPromise #OtherPeoplesHouses #ItsNotWhatYouThink
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews
July 29, 2026
The Butler
by Clare Mackintosh is a locked-room cozy mystery novel set in a villa in the hills above Cannes, France during and after the film festival. My understanding is that this will be the first book in a new series. The protagonist is Baxter, a professional butler who is used to catering to the ultrawealthy. Wealthy businessman Alec Prescott has rented the villa to celebrate his hon Carter’s 21st birthday. The guest list includes Alec’s girlfriend Kaitlyn, his estranged wife, Sylvie, Carter and his girlfriend Jade, and Carter’s godparents Damian and Francesca. Along with Baxter, there is a chef and a housekeeper to keep the villa running smoothly. However, it isn’t long until one of the guests is found dead in the swimming pool and Baxter starts investigating.
Baxter is precise, discrete, and works to impose order on chaos. He’s perceptive and hides his backstory from others. Alec is arrogant, abrasive, and insults his guests as well as harasses the staff. Kaitlyn’s presence creates friction with the other guests. Sylvie is bitter, sharp-tongues, and resentful. Francesca is an aging actress while Damian is a film producer. They need Alec to invest in their next project. Carter is attempting to launch a tech startup and is heavily dependent on Alec’s funding. Jade is ambitious and protective of Carter’s interests.
This reminded me somewhat of Agatha Christie novels starring Hercule Poirot. Both have a type of locked-run lavish setting. Both tend to use a “follow the money” theme, and both have a big reveal where the surviving suspects are gathered for a theatrical climax. However, there are some differences. Baxter leverages his organizational, observational, and logistics skills while Poirot relies heavily on psychological profiling. One other difference is in their sidekicks.
The author does a great job with setting and atmosphere and using a butler as an undercover sleuth is a fresh twist on the detective trope. However, while many have found this fast-paced, I found the book to be anything but that. Additionally, it had predictable archetypes that seemed somewhat formulaic.
Overall, this was an entertaining and quick read. I believe I would enjoy the author’s dark and gritty thrillers more than this one and would like to try one of them.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 16, 2026.
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My 3.19 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
Baxter is precise, discrete, and works to impose order on chaos. He’s perceptive and hides his backstory from others. Alec is arrogant, abrasive, and insults his guests as well as harasses the staff. Kaitlyn’s presence creates friction with the other guests. Sylvie is bitter, sharp-tongues, and resentful. Francesca is an aging actress while Damian is a film producer. They need Alec to invest in their next project. Carter is attempting to launch a tech startup and is heavily dependent on Alec’s funding. Jade is ambitious and protective of Carter’s interests.
This reminded me somewhat of Agatha Christie novels starring Hercule Poirot. Both have a type of locked-run lavish setting. Both tend to use a “follow the money” theme, and both have a big reveal where the surviving suspects are gathered for a theatrical climax. However, there are some differences. Baxter leverages his organizational, observational, and logistics skills while Poirot relies heavily on psychological profiling. One other difference is in their sidekicks.
The author does a great job with setting and atmosphere and using a butler as an undercover sleuth is a fresh twist on the detective trope. However, while many have found this fast-paced, I found the book to be anything but that. Additionally, it had predictable archetypes that seemed somewhat formulaic.
Overall, this was an entertaining and quick read. I believe I would enjoy the author’s dark and gritty thrillers more than this one and would like to try one of them.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 16, 2026.
-----------------
My 3.19 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
Read
June 17, 2026I received a physical ARC from Podium Entertainment.
The Butler was a fun, quick murder mystery and a really easy read. It had enough intrigue to keep me interested without becoming overly complicated or heavy.
Baxter backstory made him more interesting, and I definitely want to know what else is going on with him. That alone makes me want to continue with the series.
The mystery moved fast and kept things entertaining. This was more of a light, straightforward murder mystery than a dark thriller, which made it a nice change of pace.
There wasn’t anything that seriously didn’t work for me. It simply landed as a solid read rather than one that completely blew me away, and that was fine for the kind of story it was telling.
Overall, it was a quick and enjoyable mystery with an intriguing main character. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy shorter murder mysteries, lighter suspense, interesting investigators, easy pacing, and stories that leave enough unanswered about the main character to make you want the next book.
The Butler was a fun, quick murder mystery and a really easy read. It had enough intrigue to keep me interested without becoming overly complicated or heavy.
Baxter backstory made him more interesting, and I definitely want to know what else is going on with him. That alone makes me want to continue with the series.
The mystery moved fast and kept things entertaining. This was more of a light, straightforward murder mystery than a dark thriller, which made it a nice change of pace.
There wasn’t anything that seriously didn’t work for me. It simply landed as a solid read rather than one that completely blew me away, and that was fine for the kind of story it was telling.
Overall, it was a quick and enjoyable mystery with an intriguing main character. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy shorter murder mysteries, lighter suspense, interesting investigators, easy pacing, and stories that leave enough unanswered about the main character to make you want the next book.
July 26, 2026
Bravo, Ms. Mackintosh, on quite the fun, little read! Coming in at just under 200 pages, The Butler was an Agatha Christie-esque escapade into murder, scandal, drama, and intrigue. With an endearing butler reminiscent of Niles from The Nanny, a house full of side-eye-worthy suspects with a whole host of motives, and a motley crew of root-for-able amateur sleuths digging for the truth, it was a grin-inducing read that I finished in just one single sitting. I mean, how could I not love this series starter? Filled with suspicious characters and a fast-moving plot, it was the perfect modern twist on a classic murder mystery. Granted, it was one that had a somewhat more lighthearted tone than most crime fiction stories. If, however, you love cozy-ish mysteries with a Hercule Poirot-meets-The White Lotus feel, be sure to check out this first in a series. Perfectly set up for the continuing exploits of this compelling narrator, I’m going to be on pins and needles until I can get my hands on a copy of book two as soon as it’s available. Rating of 4.75 stars.
Read if you love:
- Rich people behaving badly
- Quick, easy reads
- An exotic setting
- Dark humor
- Plenty of drama and scandal
- Amateur sleuths
- An Agatha Christie-esque feel
- Murder mysteries
- Novellas that feel complete
- A cozy-ish vibe
- Golden Age-style dénouements
- Short chapters
- Suspicious characters
SYNOPSIS:
The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter―with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler―has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.
Baxter’s latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn’t take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren’t the only thing floating to the surface…
When one of the guests is found dead in the villa’s glittering pool, the gendarmes turn to the unflappable Baxter to help determine who’s responsible. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing―but what if he too becomes a target?
Thank you Clare Mackintosh and Podium Entertainment for my complimentary physical copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 16, 2026
Content warning: theft, sexual assault, sexual content, blackmail, infidelity, sexism, mention of: miscarriage, murder
Read if you love:
- Rich people behaving badly
- Quick, easy reads
- An exotic setting
- Dark humor
- Plenty of drama and scandal
- Amateur sleuths
- An Agatha Christie-esque feel
- Murder mysteries
- Novellas that feel complete
- A cozy-ish vibe
- Golden Age-style dénouements
- Short chapters
- Suspicious characters
SYNOPSIS:
The South of France is stunning, though not without its imperfections, from pickpockets to burglars to the occasional cold-blooded killer. But in his twenty-five years of service, Baxter―with a spotless reputation as a polished, well-mannered butler―has never run into any issues catering to the ultrawealthy. Until now.
Baxter’s latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn’t take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren’t the only thing floating to the surface…
When one of the guests is found dead in the villa’s glittering pool, the gendarmes turn to the unflappable Baxter to help determine who’s responsible. A good butler is expected to see everything and say nothing―but what if he too becomes a target?
Thank you Clare Mackintosh and Podium Entertainment for my complimentary physical copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 16, 2026
Content warning: theft, sexual assault, sexual content, blackmail, infidelity, sexism, mention of: miscarriage, murder
June 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
August 13, 2026
Beneath the glamorous veneer of Villa Sérénité is a web of lies, grudges and secrets, and apparently enough motives for murder to go around.
Luckily for Baxter, being a butler puts him in the perfect position to witness all that drama. The wealthy guests are well aware he's there, but there are times when he almost becomes part of the furniture, with arguments, gossip and little secrets slipping out in front of him while he quietly takes everything in. I liked how Clare Mackintosh used that to give us a different perspective on everything unfolding around him.
The guests at the villa were mostly an insufferable bunch, but I think that worked in the book's favour. Pretty much everyone, from the victim's family to the staff, has some reason to want him dead, so I had fun with the whodunit and trying to work out whose motive was finally going to push them over the edge.
I did get the culprit wrong, though, which I'll happily take. Mackintosh did a good job with the misdirection because I was pretty confident in my theory and she still managed to fool me. In hindsight, there were a few details I probably should have picked up on, so my reaction was basically, well duh, that's what you get for not paying attention.
I still had a fun time with The Butler, and I'm intrigued enough by Baxter to come back for more. Next up, a yacht party in Santorini, I see. Surely there’s a man overboard situation waiting to happen.
Luckily for Baxter, being a butler puts him in the perfect position to witness all that drama. The wealthy guests are well aware he's there, but there are times when he almost becomes part of the furniture, with arguments, gossip and little secrets slipping out in front of him while he quietly takes everything in. I liked how Clare Mackintosh used that to give us a different perspective on everything unfolding around him.
The guests at the villa were mostly an insufferable bunch, but I think that worked in the book's favour. Pretty much everyone, from the victim's family to the staff, has some reason to want him dead, so I had fun with the whodunit and trying to work out whose motive was finally going to push them over the edge.
I did get the culprit wrong, though, which I'll happily take. Mackintosh did a good job with the misdirection because I was pretty confident in my theory and she still managed to fool me. In hindsight, there were a few details I probably should have picked up on, so my reaction was basically, well duh, that's what you get for not paying attention.
I still had a fun time with The Butler, and I'm intrigued enough by Baxter to come back for more. Next up, a yacht party in Santorini, I see. Surely there’s a man overboard situation waiting to happen.
August 3, 2026
This was a short quick read. I love cozy mysteries. This one definitely falls into that category.
Baxter was funny yet very well put together character. Can’t wait to read more of his adventures. Next book will take place in Greece! Sooo excited!!
I wish the book was a little bit longer and more developed, however I still enjoyed it tremendously.
Happy Reading 🍷
Baxter was funny yet very well put together character. Can’t wait to read more of his adventures. Next book will take place in Greece! Sooo excited!!
I wish the book was a little bit longer and more developed, however I still enjoyed it tremendously.
Happy Reading 🍷
February 2, 2026
This is a well written mystery with some darkly funny moments. I’ve enjoyed every novel from Clare Mackintosh.
The Butler would make for a great movie. Giancarlo Esposito is who I pictured as Baxter. The core of the story is a who-dunnit with the rich behaving badly, but the author puts her own spin on it and I loved it! I’m looking forward to listening to the audiobook when it’s released. The ending does leave it open for a sequel or series and I sure hope so! Highly recommend.
The Butler would make for a great movie. Giancarlo Esposito is who I pictured as Baxter. The core of the story is a who-dunnit with the rich behaving badly, but the author puts her own spin on it and I loved it! I’m looking forward to listening to the audiobook when it’s released. The ending does leave it open for a sequel or series and I sure hope so! Highly recommend.
August 11, 2026
"A bite-sized thriller that you can easily devour in a single sitting by the pool."
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great Novella! Clue for the ultra-rich. 🔎✨
At around 200 pages, this was almost a full-length book but without all the unnecessary filler. Clare Mackintosh delivers a sharp, modern "whodunnit" that moves at a breakneck pace while paying a brilliant homage to classic Golden Age detective fiction.
The setup is deliciously messy: wealthy businessman Alec Prescott rents a glamorous luxury villa in the South of France to host a dysfunctional family gathering for his son's 21st birthday. But the party ends abruptly when a guest's body is discovered dead. I loved how this flips the classic mystery cliché "the butler did it"—instead, we get a highly observant, witty butler who solves the crime! If you want a quick locked-room mystery that you can devour in a single afternoon, absolutely pick this up. I can't wait to see what villa Baxter cleans up next!
I listened to this with Hoopla Audio, around 3.5 hours at 1.3 speed. Audio was done well!
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great Novella! Clue for the ultra-rich. 🔎✨
At around 200 pages, this was almost a full-length book but without all the unnecessary filler. Clare Mackintosh delivers a sharp, modern "whodunnit" that moves at a breakneck pace while paying a brilliant homage to classic Golden Age detective fiction.
The setup is deliciously messy: wealthy businessman Alec Prescott rents a glamorous luxury villa in the South of France to host a dysfunctional family gathering for his son's 21st birthday. But the party ends abruptly when a guest's body is discovered dead. I loved how this flips the classic mystery cliché "the butler did it"—instead, we get a highly observant, witty butler who solves the crime! If you want a quick locked-room mystery that you can devour in a single afternoon, absolutely pick this up. I can't wait to see what villa Baxter cleans up next!
I listened to this with Hoopla Audio, around 3.5 hours at 1.3 speed. Audio was done well!
January 26, 2026
The Butler by Clare Mackintosh is a smart, fast-paced murder mystery that makes for a perfect quick read. Set in France, the story has an elegant, slightly eerie atmosphere that adds to the intrigue and keeps the pages turning. Mackintosh wastes no time pulling the reader into the mystery, and the tight pacing makes it ideal for reading in one or two sittings.
August 11, 2026
My 6th book by this author, and it was exactly what I needed — a quick palate cleanser between the Booker longlist titles I'm working my way through.
It was entertaining and an easy, enjoyable read, although I did find myself missing the characters from the DC Morgan series. I see this is the introduction to a new series, though, so hopefully I'll grow just as fond of these characters as the series progresses.
The Story: A butler working at a glamorous French villa finds himself drawn into a murder investigation when a guest is found dead. As secrets emerge among the wealthy guests, he must work out who can be trusted.
It was entertaining and an easy, enjoyable read, although I did find myself missing the characters from the DC Morgan series. I see this is the introduction to a new series, though, so hopefully I'll grow just as fond of these characters as the series progresses.
The Story: A butler working at a glamorous French villa finds himself drawn into a murder investigation when a guest is found dead. As secrets emerge among the wealthy guests, he must work out who can be trusted.
June 24, 2026
3.5 stars
Enjoyed the story overall but had a heck of a time keeping all the characters straight.
Enjoyed the story overall but had a heck of a time keeping all the characters straight.
January 29, 2026
I absolutely LOVED Baxter as a main character and can’t wait to see if he and Red team up again for another mystery. I kept picturing him as a cross between Hercule Poirot and Niles from The Nanny, which made him even more fun to read. This was a quick, suspenseful story that I finished in just a couple of sessions. The Butler is a proper whodunnit, with every character having a motive and no shortage of suspects.
Read
June 25, 2026Read my full review, with Jen's Quick Take to help you decide if the book is for you Jen Ryland Reviews
Fun and light cozy mystery featuring Baxter, a butler who has to solve a murder mystery when one of the guests at the Cannes villa he is working in ends up dead.
This is not a fast-paced book (the murder doesn't happen until around halfway through the story) but I think it will be perfect for fans of cozies, classic Agatha Christie-style mysteries, and series like The Maid by Nita Prose.
Baxter is an intriguing character with a backstory I wanted more of, so it's great to see that he will be assigned by his agency to a new house and have a new murder to solve!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
Fun and light cozy mystery featuring Baxter, a butler who has to solve a murder mystery when one of the guests at the Cannes villa he is working in ends up dead.
This is not a fast-paced book (the murder doesn't happen until around halfway through the story) but I think it will be perfect for fans of cozies, classic Agatha Christie-style mysteries, and series like The Maid by Nita Prose.
Baxter is an intriguing character with a backstory I wanted more of, so it's great to see that he will be assigned by his agency to a new house and have a new murder to solve!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
June 20, 2026
This is an amusing short mystery novella about a butler and a bunch of unpleasant rich people gathered at a rented house in Cannes. We know from the start that there will be a murder, and there are certainly enough candidates both as suspects and potential victims. Nothing massively unique or extra ordinary here, works well as beach read. I enjoyed it!
July 23, 2026
4.5/5 stars
The Butler is a locked room mystery set in Cannes in the French Riviera. It is a whodunit with cozy mystery vibes. The narrator is Baxter. He is a freelance butler who is spending the week working at a luxury villa.
This is a fun whodunit. The prologue starts with a body being found. We don’t know who it is. Then we go back a few days when a group of people arrive to stay at at the villa. The butler is in charge of everything. Baxter is a wonderful character. This is listed as being the first book of a new series. It’s 200 pages, but does feel like a complete story.
The book features rich people behaving badly. There is a lot of family drama and everyone has secrets. The guests are: Alec, his girlfriend Kaitlyn, his ex-wife Sylvie, his son Carter, Carter’s girlfriend Jade, filmmaker Damian and his actress wife Francesca. The staff are Thierry and Miriam. And there is a thief (a girl named Red).
I loved this novella so much. It features amateur detectives and has major Agatha Christie vibes. It is a quick amazing read. I am obsessed with the butler. But I also thought that Red was such an awesome side character. I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens next.
Audiobook thoughts: Performed by Matthew Wolf.
Matthew is a wonderful actor who is very good as Baxter. When reading I often forgot that the butler is British. So this helped with that. Plus because he did each voice with the character’s accent it made it easier to remember who was British, American or French.
However because of the accents I had to listen to the audiobook at 1.2, which is slower than I usually listen. Also because of the main character’s British accent I found it easier to follow the audiobook by having the ebook in front of me while listening. So because of this I ended up just reading much of the novella.
The Butler is a locked room mystery set in Cannes in the French Riviera. It is a whodunit with cozy mystery vibes. The narrator is Baxter. He is a freelance butler who is spending the week working at a luxury villa.
This is a fun whodunit. The prologue starts with a body being found. We don’t know who it is. Then we go back a few days when a group of people arrive to stay at at the villa. The butler is in charge of everything. Baxter is a wonderful character. This is listed as being the first book of a new series. It’s 200 pages, but does feel like a complete story.
The book features rich people behaving badly. There is a lot of family drama and everyone has secrets. The guests are: Alec, his girlfriend Kaitlyn, his ex-wife Sylvie, his son Carter, Carter’s girlfriend Jade, filmmaker Damian and his actress wife Francesca. The staff are Thierry and Miriam. And there is a thief (a girl named Red).
I loved this novella so much. It features amateur detectives and has major Agatha Christie vibes. It is a quick amazing read. I am obsessed with the butler. But I also thought that Red was such an awesome side character. I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens next.
Audiobook thoughts: Performed by Matthew Wolf.
Matthew is a wonderful actor who is very good as Baxter. When reading I often forgot that the butler is British. So this helped with that. Plus because he did each voice with the character’s accent it made it easier to remember who was British, American or French.
However because of the accents I had to listen to the audiobook at 1.2, which is slower than I usually listen. Also because of the main character’s British accent I found it easier to follow the audiobook by having the ebook in front of me while listening. So because of this I ended up just reading much of the novella.
June 25, 2026
I'm a big fan of this author so I was really looking forward to reading this, and I really enjoyed it!
This whole story is packed FULL of rich people drama, which is one of my favourite tropes, and this book absolutely nailed it.
I liked the setting of a villa in the south of France (Villa Serenite, a funny play on words) and it played such a huge role in the story.
The characters whilst at times did feel slightly stereotypical, were all likeable/enjoyable to read about. I especially liked our MC Baxter. Which is just as well, as the whole story is told through his POV.
This was such an easy, fun, light hearted, read in one sitting type of book and I absolutely did fly through it in one sitting. The writing is great, as per usual with this author, and the plot is fast paced and this is a definite page turner.
Although this is only just over 200 pages, so I guess it is more of a novella than a full book, the plot felt well rounded and the fact that this was shorter than the authors usual work, didn't spoil my enjoyment at all.
This was such an enjoyable read, I really hope this becomes a series, as I would love to read more.
Thanks to Podium Entertainment for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
This whole story is packed FULL of rich people drama, which is one of my favourite tropes, and this book absolutely nailed it.
I liked the setting of a villa in the south of France (Villa Serenite, a funny play on words) and it played such a huge role in the story.
The characters whilst at times did feel slightly stereotypical, were all likeable/enjoyable to read about. I especially liked our MC Baxter. Which is just as well, as the whole story is told through his POV.
This was such an easy, fun, light hearted, read in one sitting type of book and I absolutely did fly through it in one sitting. The writing is great, as per usual with this author, and the plot is fast paced and this is a definite page turner.
Although this is only just over 200 pages, so I guess it is more of a novella than a full book, the plot felt well rounded and the fact that this was shorter than the authors usual work, didn't spoil my enjoyment at all.
This was such an enjoyable read, I really hope this becomes a series, as I would love to read more.
Thanks to Podium Entertainment for the ARC I received in exchange for an honest review
August 17, 2026
Clare Mackintosh channels her inner Agatha Christie and redeems the butler-did-it stereotype. A cast of characters descends on a rental in Cannes, and it soon becomes apparent they all have their secrets. This held me captive from beginning to end.
He was beginning to wonder if there was anyone at all at Villa Sérénité who actually liked Alec Prescott. 25%
#TheButler #NetGalley.
Publication Date 16/06/26
Goodreads Review 12/08/26
Thanks to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment | Podium Publishing for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
* I did also read the title on Kindle Unlimited and so my quotes are from that published edition. *
He was beginning to wonder if there was anyone at all at Villa Sérénité who actually liked Alec Prescott. 25%
#TheButler #NetGalley.
Publication Date 16/06/26
Goodreads Review 12/08/26
Thanks to NetGalley and Podium Entertainment | Podium Publishing for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
* I did also read the title on Kindle Unlimited and so my quotes are from that published edition. *
August 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️.5
Entertaining rich people drama story.
Entertaining rich people drama story.
July 14, 2026
I’ve been waiting for my Libby hold for The Butler to finally become available, and a glamorous villa just outside Cannes, a wealthy family & a suspicious death made for a very entertaining listen!
Rather than the psychological thrillers Clare Mack is typically known for, The Butler is a locked-room whodunnit, and I really enjoyed the change of pace! At just over 200 pages (or around four hours on audio), it’s a very easy one-sitting read or listen. Baxter was undoubtedly the standout for me. I loved his calm, observant nature and the way he quietly noticed the things everyone else missed.
I listened to this on audio, and Matthew Wolf was the perfect choice to narrate Baxter. His polished, measured delivery suited Baxter so well & made this a really enjoyable listening experience.
I’m already looking forward to following Baxter & his ‘niece’ to Greece in book two!
Rather than the psychological thrillers Clare Mack is typically known for, The Butler is a locked-room whodunnit, and I really enjoyed the change of pace! At just over 200 pages (or around four hours on audio), it’s a very easy one-sitting read or listen. Baxter was undoubtedly the standout for me. I loved his calm, observant nature and the way he quietly noticed the things everyone else missed.
I listened to this on audio, and Matthew Wolf was the perfect choice to narrate Baxter. His polished, measured delivery suited Baxter so well & made this a really enjoyable listening experience.
I’m already looking forward to following Baxter & his ‘niece’ to Greece in book two!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 rounded up.
It's a sweltering summer morning in Cannes; the South of France is glimmering with locals and tourists alike for the annual Film Festival, and a butler has just arrived to Villa Sérénité to prepare it for his forthcoming guests. From perfectly folded bed linens to ice-chilled seafood atop towers of silver and the finest Champagne a constant flow into spotless crystal glasses, everything must be perfect for Alec Prescott--guest of honor.
And fortunately for Mr. Prescott, Baxter has decades of service under his belt and is most suitably prepared for anything the raucous group of guests may bring.
Well, almost anything.
I was initially intrigued by "The Butler" because I read "I Let You Go" by Clare Mackintosh years ago and remember it as a standout thriller, even now. I knew going into this cozy novella that this would be an entirely different reading experience, but Mackintosh's rich, descriptive writing still carried this well. There's little left untouched in the cozy mystery/butler character sub-genre and therefore hard to write something truly standout, but what Mackintosh has done here is create a sophisticated, nicely-flowing story with a good payoff in the end. Great as a short palette cleanser before your next big read, "The Butler" has a gorgeous setting and a main character to adore.
*Many thanks to Podium Publishing & NetGalley for my advanced review copy of this title!*
It's a sweltering summer morning in Cannes; the South of France is glimmering with locals and tourists alike for the annual Film Festival, and a butler has just arrived to Villa Sérénité to prepare it for his forthcoming guests. From perfectly folded bed linens to ice-chilled seafood atop towers of silver and the finest Champagne a constant flow into spotless crystal glasses, everything must be perfect for Alec Prescott--guest of honor.
And fortunately for Mr. Prescott, Baxter has decades of service under his belt and is most suitably prepared for anything the raucous group of guests may bring.
Well, almost anything.
I was initially intrigued by "The Butler" because I read "I Let You Go" by Clare Mackintosh years ago and remember it as a standout thriller, even now. I knew going into this cozy novella that this would be an entirely different reading experience, but Mackintosh's rich, descriptive writing still carried this well. There's little left untouched in the cozy mystery/butler character sub-genre and therefore hard to write something truly standout, but what Mackintosh has done here is create a sophisticated, nicely-flowing story with a good payoff in the end. Great as a short palette cleanser before your next big read, "The Butler" has a gorgeous setting and a main character to adore.
*Many thanks to Podium Publishing & NetGalley for my advanced review copy of this title!*
August 8, 2026
4 Stars💫
Thank you, Podium Entertainment, for the physical ARC and ALC!🩵
Going into reading The Butler, I was excited because I hadn't read a good murder mystery in a bit! This was a fun read! I loved Baxter, the butler. He was witty, and overall, a character that kept me intrigued. It was fun trying to solve the mystery (I did not, in fact, solve it. I almost never predict or read the clues correctly.😂) Overall, I do think the mystery was slower in the sense of how the events played out, but it is a quick read! Did that make sense? Anyway, I did enjoy the book, and I'm very interested in the next one when it comes out!
Shout out to Matthew Wolf who did an absolutely wonderful job narrating this story!<3
Thank you, Podium Entertainment, for the physical ARC and ALC!🩵
Going into reading The Butler, I was excited because I hadn't read a good murder mystery in a bit! This was a fun read! I loved Baxter, the butler. He was witty, and overall, a character that kept me intrigued. It was fun trying to solve the mystery (I did not, in fact, solve it. I almost never predict or read the clues correctly.😂) Overall, I do think the mystery was slower in the sense of how the events played out, but it is a quick read! Did that make sense? Anyway, I did enjoy the book, and I'm very interested in the next one when it comes out!
Shout out to Matthew Wolf who did an absolutely wonderful job narrating this story!<3
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First. Clare Mackintosh is already publishing another book next month. How? Wow! Talented.
OK. So The Butler is a short and sweet, fast-paced murder mystery that takes place in Southern France during the Cannes film festival.
The Butler (Baxter) is definitely the main character and narrator of this well-written book. The scenes and characters (yes it reads like a script - cue Netflix) are descriptive. There were times when my senses were activated: seeing a dress, hearing an argument, smelling good food being served.
As the "murder" was introduced, I found myself in the usual position - questioning who did it? when? why? And as usual, the answer came at the very end. Which by the way left room for a sequel. Yeah!
The maid in the dining room with poison
The ex in the car with a tire iron
The girlfriend in the bedroom...
Or was it a ghost? Or the Butler?
This book is due out mid June 2026. A not too heavy mystery thriller that's easy to read and follow.
A special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the very talented, prolific author for the advanced copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
OK. So The Butler is a short and sweet, fast-paced murder mystery that takes place in Southern France during the Cannes film festival.
The Butler (Baxter) is definitely the main character and narrator of this well-written book. The scenes and characters (yes it reads like a script - cue Netflix) are descriptive. There were times when my senses were activated: seeing a dress, hearing an argument, smelling good food being served.
As the "murder" was introduced, I found myself in the usual position - questioning who did it? when? why? And as usual, the answer came at the very end. Which by the way left room for a sequel. Yeah!
The maid in the dining room with poison
The ex in the car with a tire iron
The girlfriend in the bedroom...
Or was it a ghost? Or the Butler?
This book is due out mid June 2026. A not too heavy mystery thriller that's easy to read and follow.
A special thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the very talented, prolific author for the advanced copy of this wonderful book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
June 16, 2026
2.25 stars?
I guess there is nothing “wrong” with this novella, but for Clare Mackintosh, I thought it was very dull and uninspired. It seemed like a really generic story, with really generic and uncreative characters.
I’m not sure if this is going to be a series, but I wouldn’t read more, if it is.
I guess there is nothing “wrong” with this novella, but for Clare Mackintosh, I thought it was very dull and uninspired. It seemed like a really generic story, with really generic and uncreative characters.
I’m not sure if this is going to be a series, but I wouldn’t read more, if it is.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
thank you Netgalley for an advance review copy!
with reading it digitally, I either didn't know or forgot it was just over 200 pages. while some books need less, I feel this book needed more! So much build up with getting to know characters for the ultimate mystery/whodunnit reveal to fall very very flat.
it was a very Poirot lite type of book.....and that was disappointing
with reading it digitally, I either didn't know or forgot it was just over 200 pages. while some books need less, I feel this book needed more! So much build up with getting to know characters for the ultimate mystery/whodunnit reveal to fall very very flat.
it was a very Poirot lite type of book.....and that was disappointing
June 25, 2026
Baxter the butler has twenty-five years of service with the ultrawealthy, and a spotless reputation. He is polished, well-mannered and a consummate professional.
His latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité in Cannes, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface....
'Beneath the glamorous veneer of Villa Sérénité was a web of lies, grudges and secrets - and someone willing to kill to keep theirs hidden'
Ain't that the truth! The villa's carefully curated, small but perfectly formed guest list hides more motives for murder than you can shake an olive-skewered cocktail stick at!
At around 200 pages The Butler is quite a short novel and though I hadn't seen any promotion for it, I took a chance on it when it appeared in a recent kindle email, because I mean why wouldn't you, it's Clare Mackintosh for goodness sake!
The plot and the pace are all spot on, and the cast of characters is really well drawn, with some you'll love, and some you'll love to hate.
It is written like an homage to a classic whodunit, with red herrings aplenty to keep you guessing, and it is positively Christie-esque, both in the number of potential murderers who all have a motive, and, in the Poirot-style big reveal conducted by Baxter with all the suspects gathered together in the lounge at the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed the South of France vibes with the delicious Mediterranean dishes, the luxury villa, and the views, and Baxter is the butler you'd definitely want if you had a lottery win. He's the real deal.
The Butler is a quick and entertaining read. It is well written, satisfying, enjoyable and entertaining, and would make the perfect poolside read if you're looking for a kindle/ paperback title suggestion for your holiday reading this year.
I have to say I really enjoyed Clare Mackintosh's clever and witty inversion of the more usual trope where it's always the butler who commits the crime, and I hope that it's the first of a series as I'd love to read more about Baxter's adventures, especially given the new sidekick he acquires by the novel's conclusion, offering lots of sparky potential going forward!
His latest assignment is at Villa Sérénité in Cannes, where Alec Prescott is hosting a colorful cast of characters, including his ex-wife, his much younger lady friend, and some Hollywood hotshots, after the Cannes Film Festival. But it doesn't take long for a week of sun, wine, and a family birthday celebration to devolve into bickering and backstabbing. And soon, secrets aren't the only thing floating to the surface....
'Beneath the glamorous veneer of Villa Sérénité was a web of lies, grudges and secrets - and someone willing to kill to keep theirs hidden'
Ain't that the truth! The villa's carefully curated, small but perfectly formed guest list hides more motives for murder than you can shake an olive-skewered cocktail stick at!
At around 200 pages The Butler is quite a short novel and though I hadn't seen any promotion for it, I took a chance on it when it appeared in a recent kindle email, because I mean why wouldn't you, it's Clare Mackintosh for goodness sake!
The plot and the pace are all spot on, and the cast of characters is really well drawn, with some you'll love, and some you'll love to hate.
It is written like an homage to a classic whodunit, with red herrings aplenty to keep you guessing, and it is positively Christie-esque, both in the number of potential murderers who all have a motive, and, in the Poirot-style big reveal conducted by Baxter with all the suspects gathered together in the lounge at the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed the South of France vibes with the delicious Mediterranean dishes, the luxury villa, and the views, and Baxter is the butler you'd definitely want if you had a lottery win. He's the real deal.
The Butler is a quick and entertaining read. It is well written, satisfying, enjoyable and entertaining, and would make the perfect poolside read if you're looking for a kindle/ paperback title suggestion for your holiday reading this year.
I have to say I really enjoyed Clare Mackintosh's clever and witty inversion of the more usual trope where it's always the butler who commits the crime, and I hope that it's the first of a series as I'd love to read more about Baxter's adventures, especially given the new sidekick he acquires by the novel's conclusion, offering lots of sparky potential going forward!
June 18, 2026
I love Clare Mackintosh. I just wish I would have gone into this knowing it was more of a cozy mystery than a thriller. I’ll still pick up the next book in the series. This time I’ll be ready!
June 20, 2026
this was like a clue mystery. it was enjoyable
July 8, 2026
The Butler - 4⭐️
That was just a four hour audiobook very interesting very Agatha Christie!
Rich people acting badly is quite an entertaining trope with a house full of suspects!
That was just a four hour audiobook very interesting very Agatha Christie!
Rich people acting badly is quite an entertaining trope with a house full of suspects!
July 13, 2026
Quick murder mystery. French villa, rich people drama, and someone ends up dead in the pool. Agatha Christie style book.
July 14, 2026
A short whodunnit set in Cannes. A closed door mystery - quick and easy with a fun cast of characters.
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