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The Honourable Member for Murder: The witty crime caper that lifts the lid on life in the Houses of Parliament
Another day dawns over the Houses of Parliament and Maxwell Murray, 'Chief of Staff', researcher and what sometimes feels like nanny to the hapless MP Eliot Oakcroft, has much to do. Invitations for Oakcroft to consider, party correspondence, and, here and there, some legitimate constituency business. All while keeping the honourable member for Middlebury-Mid out of trouble and the inevitable media spotlight.
But today, there's something a little different. Miranda Cley is seeking Eliot's help to free her mother from prison. After all, she can't have murdered Miranda's father, Charlie, if Miranda has just seen him alive and well. Max and his assistant Diana are on the case, wafting the scent of a possible career-making miscarriage of justice Eliot's way. But as the mystery of Charlie Cley's disappearance unravels, it quickly becomes clear that investigating could jeopardise not just their careers but their very lives.
Drawing on his own parliamentary history (with all due discretion, of course), David Weir brings us a witty new crime series set among the colourful power brokers of contemporary politics.
But today, there's something a little different. Miranda Cley is seeking Eliot's help to free her mother from prison. After all, she can't have murdered Miranda's father, Charlie, if Miranda has just seen him alive and well. Max and his assistant Diana are on the case, wafting the scent of a possible career-making miscarriage of justice Eliot's way. But as the mystery of Charlie Cley's disappearance unravels, it quickly becomes clear that investigating could jeopardise not just their careers but their very lives.
Drawing on his own parliamentary history (with all due discretion, of course), David Weir brings us a witty new crime series set among the colourful power brokers of contemporary politics.
- GenresSuspense
269 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 20, 2026
About the author
David Weir
55 books9 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, David Weir, and Allison & Busby for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Always eager to discover a strong cozy mystery, particularly one with a political backdrop, I was keen to pick up David Weir’s impressive debut. Blending Westminster intrigue with an engaging murder investigation, Weir crafts a mystery that is equal parts charming, suspenseful, and thoroughly entertaining.
When Maxwell Murray is promoted to Chief of Staff for backbench MP Eliot Oakcroft, he hopes the role will help propel both their careers. Instead, he finds himself investigating an apparent miscarriage of justice after Miranda Cley insists her imprisoned mother could not have murdered her husband, as Miranda has allegedly seen him alive after the apparent crime. Alongside his capable assistant Diana, Maxwell follows an increasingly tangled trail of clues that threatens not only political ambitions but also their very lives.
Weir demonstrates an excellent command of pacing throughout. Chapters keep the narrative moving briskly, while cleverly placed twists and unexpected alliances continually reshape the investigation. The mystery unfolds naturally, revealing just enough information to keep readers guessing without ever feeling contrived. The balance between political manoeuvring, criminal investigation, humour, and genuine suspense makes for an immensely satisfying read.
The characters are a key strength of the novel. Maxwell is an engaging and intelligent protagonist whose ambition is tempered by genuine compassion, while Eliot Oakcroft provides plenty of comic relief as the well-meaning but frequently overwhelmed MP. Diana proves to be an excellent investigative partner, and Weir populates the story with a colourful supporting cast whose importance often becomes clear only when the plot reaches pivotal moments. The dialogue is sharp and witty, giving every interaction a buoyancy that perfectly suits the cozy mystery genre.
Beneath its lighter tone lies a layered plot filled with intrigue, hidden motives, political pressure, and genuine danger. Moments of violence and escalating suspense are handled with confidence, building steadily toward a rewarding and well-earned climax. Weir strikes an impressive balance between creating an accessible, comforting mystery and delivering a genuinely compelling thriller that never becomes overly whimsical or predictable.
For a debut novel, this is remarkably assured. David Weir displays a natural talent for storytelling, memorable characters, and intricately constructed mysteries. If this first outing is any indication, readers have every reason to look forward to many more adventures featuring Maxwell Murray.
Kudos, Mr. Weir, for a strong debut novel.
Love/hate the review?
An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Always eager to discover a strong cozy mystery, particularly one with a political backdrop, I was keen to pick up David Weir’s impressive debut. Blending Westminster intrigue with an engaging murder investigation, Weir crafts a mystery that is equal parts charming, suspenseful, and thoroughly entertaining.
When Maxwell Murray is promoted to Chief of Staff for backbench MP Eliot Oakcroft, he hopes the role will help propel both their careers. Instead, he finds himself investigating an apparent miscarriage of justice after Miranda Cley insists her imprisoned mother could not have murdered her husband, as Miranda has allegedly seen him alive after the apparent crime. Alongside his capable assistant Diana, Maxwell follows an increasingly tangled trail of clues that threatens not only political ambitions but also their very lives.
Weir demonstrates an excellent command of pacing throughout. Chapters keep the narrative moving briskly, while cleverly placed twists and unexpected alliances continually reshape the investigation. The mystery unfolds naturally, revealing just enough information to keep readers guessing without ever feeling contrived. The balance between political manoeuvring, criminal investigation, humour, and genuine suspense makes for an immensely satisfying read.
The characters are a key strength of the novel. Maxwell is an engaging and intelligent protagonist whose ambition is tempered by genuine compassion, while Eliot Oakcroft provides plenty of comic relief as the well-meaning but frequently overwhelmed MP. Diana proves to be an excellent investigative partner, and Weir populates the story with a colourful supporting cast whose importance often becomes clear only when the plot reaches pivotal moments. The dialogue is sharp and witty, giving every interaction a buoyancy that perfectly suits the cozy mystery genre.
Beneath its lighter tone lies a layered plot filled with intrigue, hidden motives, political pressure, and genuine danger. Moments of violence and escalating suspense are handled with confidence, building steadily toward a rewarding and well-earned climax. Weir strikes an impressive balance between creating an accessible, comforting mystery and delivering a genuinely compelling thriller that never becomes overly whimsical or predictable.
For a debut novel, this is remarkably assured. David Weir displays a natural talent for storytelling, memorable characters, and intricately constructed mysteries. If this first outing is any indication, readers have every reason to look forward to many more adventures featuring Maxwell Murray.
Kudos, Mr. Weir, for a strong debut novel.
Love/hate the review?
An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maxwell Murray is personal assistant to Eliot Oakcroft MP, a handsome but utterly vacuous man with political ambitions that are routinely ignored each time there is a cabinet shake-up. The pinnacle of his career thus far is more of a gentle hillock – he is chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for miscarriages of justice, an appointment mainly designed to keep Oakcroft out of the prematurely grey hair of the Chief Whip.
The body of Charlie Cley is eventually found in a Norfolk cottage. Problem is, though, he did not die three years ago when he was first reported missing, but more like three hours earlier – and from a glass of red wine laced with poison. Rebecca Cley is released from her prison cell on the perfectly reasonable grounds that when her husband died, she was under lock and key in HMP Norton St Meals.
What sort of a hero is Max Murray? Can he carry the novel’s narrative on his back for 300 pages? The short answer is – no. He is too honest, too conciliatory and too hesitant. He needs the buccaneering instincts of Diana and Ronni to drag him from the calm waters of the harbour so that he can challenge the criminal Blackbeards and Captain Kidds out there on the open ocean. Is this Cosy Crime? If one applies the AI definition, “a sub genre of crime fiction without sex, or overt violence, typically featuring an amateur sleuth solving a puzzle or murder in a close-knit or picturesque community, emphasizing puzzle-solving, humour, and with a satisfying resolution where order is restored.’ then, yes, I suppose it is. The humour here is sharp enough, and there is just enough cynicism to lift the novel above the mire of elderly ladies cycling around Cotswold villages trying to discover who killed the local Master of Foxhounds. Such books were dismembered and cleverly eviscerated by the late, great Colin Watson in his excellent book Snobbery With Violence.
The crime(s) are solved eventually. more by the perscipacity of Diana than that of Max.I have a couple of minor quibbles; the last time I went to Fincham, the pubs were quite decent, and there was no sign of the breeze-block monstrosity featured here; as anyone who holds a firearms license will tell you, a rifle and a shotgun are two quite different things. That aside, I enjoyed the book, and found it an entertaining and witty read.
David Weir was born and brought up in Edinburgh where he played a lot of rugby and sang for the Pope in a national choir at Murrayfield and in Glasgow. He was a newspaper reporter for 11 years in Fife, Hampshire, Norwich and London interviewing among others Harry Secombe, Ralph Fiennes and a lot of politicians. Then, he went to work at the House of Commons advising MPs from all parties on constitutional stuff and arcane parliamentary procedures as well as running teams reporting on the Treasury, justice, prisons, courts, migration, policing, and Northern Ireland. This is his first novel, and it will be published by Allison & Busby on 20th August.
The body of Charlie Cley is eventually found in a Norfolk cottage. Problem is, though, he did not die three years ago when he was first reported missing, but more like three hours earlier – and from a glass of red wine laced with poison. Rebecca Cley is released from her prison cell on the perfectly reasonable grounds that when her husband died, she was under lock and key in HMP Norton St Meals.
What sort of a hero is Max Murray? Can he carry the novel’s narrative on his back for 300 pages? The short answer is – no. He is too honest, too conciliatory and too hesitant. He needs the buccaneering instincts of Diana and Ronni to drag him from the calm waters of the harbour so that he can challenge the criminal Blackbeards and Captain Kidds out there on the open ocean. Is this Cosy Crime? If one applies the AI definition, “a sub genre of crime fiction without sex, or overt violence, typically featuring an amateur sleuth solving a puzzle or murder in a close-knit or picturesque community, emphasizing puzzle-solving, humour, and with a satisfying resolution where order is restored.’ then, yes, I suppose it is. The humour here is sharp enough, and there is just enough cynicism to lift the novel above the mire of elderly ladies cycling around Cotswold villages trying to discover who killed the local Master of Foxhounds. Such books were dismembered and cleverly eviscerated by the late, great Colin Watson in his excellent book Snobbery With Violence.
The crime(s) are solved eventually. more by the perscipacity of Diana than that of Max.I have a couple of minor quibbles; the last time I went to Fincham, the pubs were quite decent, and there was no sign of the breeze-block monstrosity featured here; as anyone who holds a firearms license will tell you, a rifle and a shotgun are two quite different things. That aside, I enjoyed the book, and found it an entertaining and witty read.
David Weir was born and brought up in Edinburgh where he played a lot of rugby and sang for the Pope in a national choir at Murrayfield and in Glasgow. He was a newspaper reporter for 11 years in Fife, Hampshire, Norwich and London interviewing among others Harry Secombe, Ralph Fiennes and a lot of politicians. Then, he went to work at the House of Commons advising MPs from all parties on constitutional stuff and arcane parliamentary procedures as well as running teams reporting on the Treasury, justice, prisons, courts, migration, policing, and Northern Ireland. This is his first novel, and it will be published by Allison & Busby on 20th August.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There are pockets of really excellent writing in The Honourable Member for Murder. Some of the characters are sharply observed, and when Diana works, she really works: she’s funny, engaging and there are moments where the writing around her is genuinely very good. Max also felt believable, and I enjoyed the MP character of Eliot , who is obviously something of a caricature, although perhaps less of one than you might think. You can definitely feel the author drawing on his experience of working in the House of Commons.
For me, though, the book never quite developed the depth or momentum I wanted from it. Diana sometimes feels a little too perfect, while she and Ronni also felt surprisingly similar as characters despite Ronni being considerably harder to warm to. More broadly, quite a lot of the characterisation and politics felt slightly surface-level: there were interesting details and observations, but I never felt completely immersed in either the characters or the political world.
That was particularly noticeable because the political setting was one of the things that most interested me. In the end, it felt more like a crime story that happened to take place around Westminster than a genuinely political crime novel. The central motivations aren't particularly political, and politics doesn't really drive the mystery or the main characters in a substantive way. I would have loved the Westminster setting to be more integral to what was happening rather than primarily providing the backdrop.
I had similar feelings about the mystery itself. It's perfectly solid, but I never felt especially involved in solving it. There seemed to be relatively few clues to work with, so rather than forming theories or questioning what I thought I knew, I mostly felt like an observer waiting for the story to tell me what had happened. That also affected the sense of propulsion: I wasn't always sure where the stakes were or what was pulling me urgently towards the next chapter. There's one character who is presented as potentially suspicious, but I didn't feel sufficiently invested in the question of whether she really was or what the consequences would be. And it didn't really go anywhere.
Ultimately, I think there are the ingredients of a very good book here. Some strong character writing, flashes of humour, an author who clearly knows the Westminster world and a perfectly serviceable mystery but they didn't quite cohere into a story that fully grabbed me. I wanted more depth from the politics, more clues from the mystery and a stronger sense of stakes and momentum. There are moments that show just how good the book could be, which perhaps made me wish those strengths had carried through the whole novel. 3.5 stars rounded up.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy.
For me, though, the book never quite developed the depth or momentum I wanted from it. Diana sometimes feels a little too perfect, while she and Ronni also felt surprisingly similar as characters despite Ronni being considerably harder to warm to. More broadly, quite a lot of the characterisation and politics felt slightly surface-level: there were interesting details and observations, but I never felt completely immersed in either the characters or the political world.
That was particularly noticeable because the political setting was one of the things that most interested me. In the end, it felt more like a crime story that happened to take place around Westminster than a genuinely political crime novel. The central motivations aren't particularly political, and politics doesn't really drive the mystery or the main characters in a substantive way. I would have loved the Westminster setting to be more integral to what was happening rather than primarily providing the backdrop.
I had similar feelings about the mystery itself. It's perfectly solid, but I never felt especially involved in solving it. There seemed to be relatively few clues to work with, so rather than forming theories or questioning what I thought I knew, I mostly felt like an observer waiting for the story to tell me what had happened. That also affected the sense of propulsion: I wasn't always sure where the stakes were or what was pulling me urgently towards the next chapter. There's one character who is presented as potentially suspicious, but I didn't feel sufficiently invested in the question of whether she really was or what the consequences would be. And it didn't really go anywhere.
Ultimately, I think there are the ingredients of a very good book here. Some strong character writing, flashes of humour, an author who clearly knows the Westminster world and a perfectly serviceable mystery but they didn't quite cohere into a story that fully grabbed me. I wanted more depth from the politics, more clues from the mystery and a stronger sense of stakes and momentum. There are moments that show just how good the book could be, which perhaps made me wish those strengths had carried through the whole novel. 3.5 stars rounded up.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
David Weir is a former House of Commons Clerk, so where better to set his debut novel. I say novel, he is already an established award-winning playwright so he is no stranger to writing, so hopes were high going in...
And I have to say that he completely nailed it! Unlike a lot of authors who write what they know and blind the reader with superfluous waffle and padding, he has managed to set scenes, explain things, introduce concept, all in an easy to follow, interesting way, some of which I also found fascinating. How the wheels of politics turn and who does the turning, for example...
Anyway... our MC in this book is Chief of Staff Maxwell Murray who works for MP Eliot Oakcroft who is the stereotypical lazy, do as little as he can, kind of MP. Completing the office, we have Diana Burton, Eliot's latest (and she's lasted longer than most) researcher. Between Max and Diana, they have their work cut out for them in keeping Eliot out of trouble and all his correspondence up to date.
But then there's a letter from Miranda Cley who has been advised to ask Eliot for help with a matter, being as he is on the right Parliamentary Group... Her mother is in prison for killing her father. His body was never found and now she claims to have seen him alive and well...
Long story short and Max and Diana think that there could be something in Miranda's claim and arrange a meeting... But there are those who don't want that particular bear poked and they are soon warned off. Luckily, that only makes them more determined to get to the bottom of things. And so begins a brilliantly plotted, well executed story starring so really rather superb characters who all play their parts very well indeed. With twists and turns aplenty and a healthy slice of dysfunctional behaviour and and side order of obfuscation, I was pretty much held captive all the way through. I especially took to Max right from the start and I do think him and Diana make a cracking team of investigators, ably assisted By Ronni, Max's journalist sister.
It was also extremely well written and, with no superfluous waffle or padding, it got on with itself very well indeed, Pacing matching the narrative every step of the way. Culminating in a wholly satisfying ending.
I am even more excited now that I know it's the start of a series. I really can't wait to see what is coming next for the gang! My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
And I have to say that he completely nailed it! Unlike a lot of authors who write what they know and blind the reader with superfluous waffle and padding, he has managed to set scenes, explain things, introduce concept, all in an easy to follow, interesting way, some of which I also found fascinating. How the wheels of politics turn and who does the turning, for example...
Anyway... our MC in this book is Chief of Staff Maxwell Murray who works for MP Eliot Oakcroft who is the stereotypical lazy, do as little as he can, kind of MP. Completing the office, we have Diana Burton, Eliot's latest (and she's lasted longer than most) researcher. Between Max and Diana, they have their work cut out for them in keeping Eliot out of trouble and all his correspondence up to date.
But then there's a letter from Miranda Cley who has been advised to ask Eliot for help with a matter, being as he is on the right Parliamentary Group... Her mother is in prison for killing her father. His body was never found and now she claims to have seen him alive and well...
Long story short and Max and Diana think that there could be something in Miranda's claim and arrange a meeting... But there are those who don't want that particular bear poked and they are soon warned off. Luckily, that only makes them more determined to get to the bottom of things. And so begins a brilliantly plotted, well executed story starring so really rather superb characters who all play their parts very well indeed. With twists and turns aplenty and a healthy slice of dysfunctional behaviour and and side order of obfuscation, I was pretty much held captive all the way through. I especially took to Max right from the start and I do think him and Diana make a cracking team of investigators, ably assisted By Ronni, Max's journalist sister.
It was also extremely well written and, with no superfluous waffle or padding, it got on with itself very well indeed, Pacing matching the narrative every step of the way. Culminating in a wholly satisfying ending.
I am even more excited now that I know it's the start of a series. I really can't wait to see what is coming next for the gang! My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Honourable Member for Murder is a brilliant first novel by David Weir. The author worked in the House of Commons and that experience gives colour to the whole novel, e.g. by showing the dramatic difference in the impressive public area of the House of Commons and the cramped, deteriorating conditions in the offices and administrative areas.
The characters are a joy to read about: Max is the head researcher for Eliot Oakcroft, the thick-as-pig-poop MP for Middlebury-Mid. Max is generally recognised as sharp and diligent, both qualities in complete contrast to those of his boss. Diana is the junior researcher, a highly efficient administrator who sussed out the MP in the first fifteen minutes of her first day. Oakcroft had told her to make him a coffee and she’d taken him by the hand and shown him where the kitchen and kettle were. Oakcroft had sacked her, but Max and Diana took no notice of his petulance and Diana continues to work there.
One assumes that, given the author’s decades-long experience of MPs, that Oakcroft is an amalgamation of the worst ones he has known. It’s hard to say who has more fun with this book: Weir, skewering MPs and their preoccupation with publicity and promotion; or us, the readers, crying with laughter at examples of their self-centred behaviour.
Although written with wit and humour, the plot is a well-crafted and fast-paced whodunnit. Rebecca Cley was jailed for the murder of her husband, Charlie, but now their daughter, Miranda, has seen their father in Cromer. Max and Diana investigate on Oakcroft’s behalf but someone very senior in the Government really doesn’t want them to do so. However, their discovery of a very very dead body doesn’t seem to deter them.
I do hope David Weir makes this a series and we get another novel from him soon.
#TheHonourableMemberforMurder #NetGalley
The characters are a joy to read about: Max is the head researcher for Eliot Oakcroft, the thick-as-pig-poop MP for Middlebury-Mid. Max is generally recognised as sharp and diligent, both qualities in complete contrast to those of his boss. Diana is the junior researcher, a highly efficient administrator who sussed out the MP in the first fifteen minutes of her first day. Oakcroft had told her to make him a coffee and she’d taken him by the hand and shown him where the kitchen and kettle were. Oakcroft had sacked her, but Max and Diana took no notice of his petulance and Diana continues to work there.
One assumes that, given the author’s decades-long experience of MPs, that Oakcroft is an amalgamation of the worst ones he has known. It’s hard to say who has more fun with this book: Weir, skewering MPs and their preoccupation with publicity and promotion; or us, the readers, crying with laughter at examples of their self-centred behaviour.
Although written with wit and humour, the plot is a well-crafted and fast-paced whodunnit. Rebecca Cley was jailed for the murder of her husband, Charlie, but now their daughter, Miranda, has seen their father in Cromer. Max and Diana investigate on Oakcroft’s behalf but someone very senior in the Government really doesn’t want them to do so. However, their discovery of a very very dead body doesn’t seem to deter them.
I do hope David Weir makes this a series and we get another novel from him soon.
#TheHonourableMemberforMurder #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the ARC
Dry, witty, and eccentrically funny, this absolutely captured a very particular style of British humour and atmosphere in a way that felt both deeply intelligent and genuinely entertaining. From the parliamentary buildings and constituency offices to small villages, woodland crime scenes, and London pubs, the settings felt vividly grounded without ever becoming over-described.
David Weir manages to turn parliamentary bureaucracy, constituency politics, and procedural nonsense into something sharp, character-driven, and consistently amusing. The humour really worked for me because it never felt forced. It’s understated, self-aware, and often buried within the dialogue and character interactions without relying on big punchlines. There’s a very specific dry humour throughout that gave it so much charm. Weir clearly understands both the absurdity and monotony of the UK's political systems and uses that knowledge to great effect throughout the story.
I did work out elements of the mystery and broader plot fairly early on, but importantly, the story still kept me engaged throughout. The twists and turns were handled in a way that constantly made me second-guess myself, and at no point did I find myself skimming or losing interest because of perceived predictability. In truth, I have a bit of a knack for picking out the killer and the crime in advance. The character dynamics and humour carried the momentum so well so even when I suspected where things were heading, I still keenly followed the journey there.
Overall, a genuinely clever and entertaining mystery with fantastic character interplay and a very distinct voice. I’d absolutely continue with this series.
Dry, witty, and eccentrically funny, this absolutely captured a very particular style of British humour and atmosphere in a way that felt both deeply intelligent and genuinely entertaining. From the parliamentary buildings and constituency offices to small villages, woodland crime scenes, and London pubs, the settings felt vividly grounded without ever becoming over-described.
David Weir manages to turn parliamentary bureaucracy, constituency politics, and procedural nonsense into something sharp, character-driven, and consistently amusing. The humour really worked for me because it never felt forced. It’s understated, self-aware, and often buried within the dialogue and character interactions without relying on big punchlines. There’s a very specific dry humour throughout that gave it so much charm. Weir clearly understands both the absurdity and monotony of the UK's political systems and uses that knowledge to great effect throughout the story.
I did work out elements of the mystery and broader plot fairly early on, but importantly, the story still kept me engaged throughout. The twists and turns were handled in a way that constantly made me second-guess myself, and at no point did I find myself skimming or losing interest because of perceived predictability. In truth, I have a bit of a knack for picking out the killer and the crime in advance. The character dynamics and humour carried the momentum so well so even when I suspected where things were heading, I still keenly followed the journey there.
Overall, a genuinely clever and entertaining mystery with fantastic character interplay and a very distinct voice. I’d absolutely continue with this series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It takes a gifted writer to capture the absolute inanity, banality, and ego fluffing involved in supporting "important figures." One needs to have a huge level of tolerance for said figures, which often requires operating in a dissociated state. David Weir captures this mad world in his sharp, funny, and oddly moving debut, The Honourable Member for Murder. Weir draws on his experiences working in Parliament, which makes the reader feel as if they're following along as Max Murray, chief of staff to the vain, obtuse MP Eliot Oakcroft, ambles from his flat to work and back again. Now pushing middle age, Max is single, regimented, and resigned to a life answering constituent emails and managing Eliot's social calendar.. The only spark in his life is his ambitious young assistant, Diana, who despite being cynical and sarcastic, still believes she can make a difference. When a constituent reaches out asking for Eliot's help in freeing her mother from prison, Max's humdrum life is turned upside down. This is an absolutely delicious tale, which hits on so many levels. There's the banality of office work; the ways in which toxic relationships can cause us to shut down; and the realities of the glamorous life (and the avarice, backstabbing, and insecurity that come with new money). Weir has an incredible gift for both mocking and sympathizing with unlikable people. and for writing madcap characters who you want more of. Max and Diana make a great sleuthing team, and all the supporting characters are as vivid as actors on the screen. I'm hoping this book is picked up for a TV series—it's that good. And as a beach read, it can't be beat. I'm already looking forward to book two.
Many, many thanks to NetGalley and Allison &Busby for an ARC.
Many, many thanks to NetGalley and Allison &Busby for an ARC.
August 26, 2026
The Honourable Member for Murder by David Weir is an interesting take on a mystery. Max and Diana work for MP, Eliot Oakcroft, who is pretty much useless. Max has just been made Chief of Staff, Diana is his staff. A young woman has requested Eliot’s help in getting her mother released from prison where is serving a term for killing her husband. But, there is no body, and the government won’t declare him dead. Odd. Eliot may be useless but his staff is not. They have decided this needs to be investigated and have proceeded, without Eliot. Although he eventually takes credit for all that has happened. What they discover is an embezzlement scam netting millions, and murder.
Max is just as buttoned up as one might expect a Chief of Staff to an MP to be. Approaching middle age, Diana, who arguably is the smarter of the two is a very young woman, with multi-colored hair and a mouth that is working constantly. The mystery took them all over England in their search for answers. It was an unusual mystery with a satisfying outcome, which Eliot took credit for as everyone around the table rolled their eyes. Different. Entertaining. Typical of politicians.
I was invited to read The Honourable Member for Murder by Allison & Busby. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #AllisonAndBusby #DavidWeir #TheHonourableMemberForMurder
Max is just as buttoned up as one might expect a Chief of Staff to an MP to be. Approaching middle age, Diana, who arguably is the smarter of the two is a very young woman, with multi-colored hair and a mouth that is working constantly. The mystery took them all over England in their search for answers. It was an unusual mystery with a satisfying outcome, which Eliot took credit for as everyone around the table rolled their eyes. Different. Entertaining. Typical of politicians.
I was invited to read The Honourable Member for Murder by Allison & Busby. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #AllisonAndBusby #DavidWeir #TheHonourableMemberForMurder
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maxwell Murray is a long-time researcher for the continual backbench MP, Eliot Oakcroft. With both of their careers seemingly stalled, Murray is intrigued when they are approached by Miranda Cley. Miranda's mother is in prison for killing her father, a man she swears she saw buying an ice-cream on Cromer Pier...
It is no secret that Maxwell is the brains in Oakcroft's office. Along with his assistant, Diana Burton, and his sister, journalist Ronni (Veronica), they set out to uncover a miscarriage of justice. Along the way, Maxwell has to deal with Estella Chamberlain, who scuppered his chance of standing for parliament himself, as well as wondering why so many people are against them, trying to discover the truth.
This mystery has some fun characters and a great setting, as it is set partly in the Houses of Parliament. I am a bit of a politics nerd, so this was definitely one for me. I found it a little difficult to get into at first, but about a third of the way in, I was invested in the characters and enjoying the mystery.
I look forward to reading more in this series, and it is definitely a win for me. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for review.
It is no secret that Maxwell is the brains in Oakcroft's office. Along with his assistant, Diana Burton, and his sister, journalist Ronni (Veronica), they set out to uncover a miscarriage of justice. Along the way, Maxwell has to deal with Estella Chamberlain, who scuppered his chance of standing for parliament himself, as well as wondering why so many people are against them, trying to discover the truth.
This mystery has some fun characters and a great setting, as it is set partly in the Houses of Parliament. I am a bit of a politics nerd, so this was definitely one for me. I found it a little difficult to get into at first, but about a third of the way in, I was invested in the characters and enjoying the mystery.
I look forward to reading more in this series, and it is definitely a win for me. I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was always going to love reading this set partly in my old workplace (features The Lords even though Commons based) and I knew when reading it such was the detail given and the descriptions of workings of the building by the author that he too was an ex employee (this proven in the bio read after)
It was great to be back there got to say
Onto the actual story, well the writing was razor sharp, very dry humour and character led and all built around an MP’s ( Eliot Oakcroft ) constituent who is 2 years in prison for murdering her husband…..which cant be right as the woman’s daughter has a picture of him taken a few weeks before enjoying an ice cream in Cromer! ( which she shows when asking for help )
And so the mystery deepens and when the MP’s staff, Maxwell Murray and Diana Burton start to look into things they discover a quagmire of lies, deceit and treachery, all done with the tongue in cheek humour that made the book very entertaining even when things got more than dangerous for the pair
Thoroughly enjoyable read, well written and look forward to Book 2
It was great to be back there got to say
Onto the actual story, well the writing was razor sharp, very dry humour and character led and all built around an MP’s ( Eliot Oakcroft ) constituent who is 2 years in prison for murdering her husband…..which cant be right as the woman’s daughter has a picture of him taken a few weeks before enjoying an ice cream in Cromer! ( which she shows when asking for help )
And so the mystery deepens and when the MP’s staff, Maxwell Murray and Diana Burton start to look into things they discover a quagmire of lies, deceit and treachery, all done with the tongue in cheek humour that made the book very entertaining even when things got more than dangerous for the pair
Thoroughly enjoyable read, well written and look forward to Book 2
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for an early review copy.
Maxwell Murray is the long term researcher for backbench (with aspirations) MP Eliot Oakcroft. When they are approached by Miranda Cley, who is in possession of a photography of her supposedly dead father eating ice-cream on the pier at Cromer, they are intrigued. More so because Miranda's mother is in prison for the murder of her husband. Maxwell, his assistant Diane, his journalist sister Ronni and others around Westminster are drawn into investigating this potential miscarriage of justice.
By about a third of the way into the book I had grown to really like the characters and was intrigued to find out what had happened. Although some of the plot was a bit predictable this is a good cozy crime read.
Am glad to see that this is listed as Westminster Mysteries Book 1 as I'd quite like to join this team again in another case.
Maxwell Murray is the long term researcher for backbench (with aspirations) MP Eliot Oakcroft. When they are approached by Miranda Cley, who is in possession of a photography of her supposedly dead father eating ice-cream on the pier at Cromer, they are intrigued. More so because Miranda's mother is in prison for the murder of her husband. Maxwell, his assistant Diane, his journalist sister Ronni and others around Westminster are drawn into investigating this potential miscarriage of justice.
By about a third of the way into the book I had grown to really like the characters and was intrigued to find out what had happened. Although some of the plot was a bit predictable this is a good cozy crime read.
Am glad to see that this is listed as Westminster Mysteries Book 1 as I'd quite like to join this team again in another case.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A gentle crime novel, The Honourable Member for Murder (2026) by David Weir, is set in the British Parliament precinct. Maxwell Murray and Diana Burton work in the office of Elliot Oakley MP – a privileged, meretricious man who never listens. Miranda Clef contacts Elliot’s office, requesting assistance with freeing her mother from prison for a murder she didn’t commit. Miranda has a photograph showing her missing father may still be alive. As Maxwell and Diana make inquiries, the political powers make it clear that the case should not be pursued. A delightful romp of a read, which draws you into this graphic capture of Westminster, two murders and fabulously sketched characters. A ripping tale of political satire and murder whodunnit that totally engrosses you with its must-read five star gold rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
August 12, 2026
The Honourable Member for Murder by David Weir is a lighthearted mystery with slivers of wit. MP Eliot Oakcroft is an MP in name only; his secretariat or “Chief of Staff” is an MP researcher and basically takes care of Eliot’s life other than public appearances. Max works in the same small office as fellow researcher Diana. A woman appeals to the MP for help extricating her mother from prison as she doesn’t believe she did the crime. Max and Diana team up to do what they can.
The character who grabbed me most is Diana due to her sharp wit and earnestness. Ronni, Max’s sister, is also likeable and interesting. I like the working relationship between Diana and Max and the inner eyerolls they do in Eliot’s presence. Humour caused me to smile out loud several times. Characterization was more beguiling than the actual mystery which felt secondary in ways. But that’s ok. For me, this entertaining novel was well worth engaging in.
The character who grabbed me most is Diana due to her sharp wit and earnestness. Ronni, Max’s sister, is also likeable and interesting. I like the working relationship between Diana and Max and the inner eyerolls they do in Eliot’s presence. Humour caused me to smile out loud several times. Characterization was more beguiling than the actual mystery which felt secondary in ways. But that’s ok. For me, this entertaining novel was well worth engaging in.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Max Murray has shelved his own plans to be an MP and is settled into a comfortable, if undemanding, role as 'Chief of Staff' to Eliot Oakcroft, a minor provincial MP with ambition but not much talent. When Eliot is asked to support a woman who has been jailed for the murder of her husband, Max and new intern Diana get involved. The case is more complex than it seems as no body has been found. As the duo investigate further they discover a fraud but then more bodies start to appear.
This is a really fun cosy crime novel. It's light, it's witty and it's not too demanding. I liked the setting in Parliament and it's obvious that Weir does have a lot of knowledge in this area. It was fairly obvious who the killer was from quite early on but that didn't stop this being a great, undemanding read.
This is a really fun cosy crime novel. It's light, it's witty and it's not too demanding. I liked the setting in Parliament and it's obvious that Weir does have a lot of knowledge in this area. It was fairly obvious who the killer was from quite early on but that didn't stop this being a great, undemanding read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Max works for a hopelessly idiotic MP, along with his researcher, Diane. Eliot Oakcroft MP is approached by Melinda, a wealthy young lady, and her uncle to look into her mother’s murder charge. Her mother is imprisoned for killing her husband, even though no body has ever been found. Melinda is convinced she saw her father, alive and well, so her mother can’t be guilty.
Max, his sister Ronnie (a foreign affairs reporter), and Diane are doing the investigating that the MP is incapable of doing. The dialogue between them is witty and well-balanced. The mystery is complex and enjoyable. The back scene look into the Houses of Parliament was great fun.
Thanks to Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the ARC.
Max, his sister Ronnie (a foreign affairs reporter), and Diane are doing the investigating that the MP is incapable of doing. The dialogue between them is witty and well-balanced. The mystery is complex and enjoyable. The back scene look into the Houses of Parliament was great fun.
Thanks to Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Honourable Member for Murder is a fine example of British cozy crime
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for the ARC my review is voluntary.
This book has all the necessary components . Amateur sleuths, a slightly irritated detective, good people, bad people and frankly ridiculous people- with some great British characterisation thrown in. They are all well developed and the relationships between the heroes of the story are heart warming. Added to this is the quintessential British backdrop which veers between historical and majestic Westminster and historical and quaint Norfolk.
The fact that several of the main characters work in politics gives the book a novel slant and affords the reader a much needed chance to laugh at some of the shenanigans that goes on in our hallowed halls of power. The humour is wonderfully British.
Thank you to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for the ARC my review is voluntary.
This book has all the necessary components . Amateur sleuths, a slightly irritated detective, good people, bad people and frankly ridiculous people- with some great British characterisation thrown in. They are all well developed and the relationships between the heroes of the story are heart warming. Added to this is the quintessential British backdrop which veers between historical and majestic Westminster and historical and quaint Norfolk.
The fact that several of the main characters work in politics gives the book a novel slant and affords the reader a much needed chance to laugh at some of the shenanigans that goes on in our hallowed halls of power. The humour is wonderfully British.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fun cosy crime based around the Houses of Parliament and featuring Maxwell Murray, chief of staff to MP Eliot Oakcroft, and his researcher, Diana.
His MP is approached by Miranda Cley to take up the case of her mother in prison for the murder of her father - a father she is sure she has seen in the flesh.
Investigating the case brings Maxwell and Diana more excitement than they expected potentially jeopardising both their careers and lives.
The novel is well paced and the characters all well drawn. I particularly liked Diana and Maxwell’s relationship.
All against a background of political manoeuvring and trying to manage their MP.
An enjoyable read. I look forward to more in this series.
His MP is approached by Miranda Cley to take up the case of her mother in prison for the murder of her father - a father she is sure she has seen in the flesh.
Investigating the case brings Maxwell and Diana more excitement than they expected potentially jeopardising both their careers and lives.
The novel is well paced and the characters all well drawn. I particularly liked Diana and Maxwell’s relationship.
All against a background of political manoeuvring and trying to manage their MP.
An enjoyable read. I look forward to more in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Honourable Member for Murder by David Weir
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A good debut novel set within the walls of Westminister. It was fun to see a little behind the scenes of where MPs spend their time.
A cosy murder mystery with a humorous vibe, I enjoyed the flow of the story and the way Max and Diana, our main duo, interacted.
I feel sure they have some more crime-solving in them to fit between replying to Eliot’s emails and keeping him in line.
I received a gifted ARC of this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Allison & Busby.
This is my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A good debut novel set within the walls of Westminister. It was fun to see a little behind the scenes of where MPs spend their time.
A cosy murder mystery with a humorous vibe, I enjoyed the flow of the story and the way Max and Diana, our main duo, interacted.
I feel sure they have some more crime-solving in them to fit between replying to Eliot’s emails and keeping him in line.
I received a gifted ARC of this book.
Thank you NetGalley and Allison & Busby.
This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
You can certainly tell that this author has some insight into the workings of Westminster and it comes through well in the story. It is quite refreshing that the two "investigators" are just employees for an MP who manages to wander through his political life mainly due to the help from Max and Diana. Although there is a mystery to solve, there are a few witty moments generally to do with their hapless boss Eliot ! A good read from this debut novelist.
Thanks to Netgalley / Allison & Busby for the ARC to review
Thanks to Netgalley / Allison & Busby for the ARC to review
August 21, 2026
Maxwell Murray is a researcher for a minor MP. Miranda Cley approaches the MP with a picture of her supposedly dead father eating ice-cream asking for help, because her mother is imprisoned for the murder. An investigation into a possible miscarriage of justice begins.
Although the mystery was obvious to me, I liked the characters and stayed to see where their story was going. The novel is labelled as Westminster Mysteries book 1 in the Goodreads database, which lets me hope for more cases featuring this small team.
Although the mystery was obvious to me, I liked the characters and stayed to see where their story was going. The novel is labelled as Westminster Mysteries book 1 in the Goodreads database, which lets me hope for more cases featuring this small team.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a fantastic read, well written and plotted. Maxwell and Diana, parliamentary researchers for MP Eliot Oakcroft get involved in a miscarriage of justice case when Miranda Cley recruits Eliot to free her mother from prison for murdering her husband. Miranda is convinced she has seen her father and in spite of Eliot's incompetence, they set about trying to work out what is really going on. I hope this is the first of many outings for this couple of amateur detectives.
August 30, 2026
An interesting cozy mystery within a political setting. The main characters, Max and Diana, who are as engaging as they are clever, find themselves trying to solve a mystery for a constituent of their boss, MP Eliot Oakcroft. The author is very tongue in cheek with his characterization of politicians and the parliamentary system and provides a clever mystery with much humour and a few plot twists.
August 7, 2026
This was a good read, the chief of staff Maxwell and his researcher Eliot are preparing for a party, but after she sees her father she wants to free her mother. Her mother is in jail for his murder, but she seen him. It’s a great parliament/ crime read, characters were interesting and kept you engaged. Was a quick 4 stars read. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for a copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a free copy of, The Honorable Member for Murder, by David Weir, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Maxwell Murray is the Chief of Staff for the MP Eliot Oakcroft, which keeps him pretty busy, he also has a mystery to solve. This was an interesting read.
September 13, 2026
Well put together story with plenty of twists to keep us interested. Good snippets of parliamentary life as well, which you’d expect given the background of the author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed this fast paced thoughtful political thriller. It seems the author has given us the benefit of his inside knowledge of parliament. An MP’s researcher is approached by a daughter who believes her mother has been wrongfully convicted of killing her father. As the researcher and his assistant investigate this case they uncover a web of corruption until they reach a surprising conclusion. The characterisation, especially of the two main female characters is great and there is a nice touch of humour throughout making this a worthwhile read.
Review of advance copy
This was a brilliant mystery set in the halls of Westminster.
Maxwell Murray is the "chief of staff" of himself and one other to long standing MP Eliot Oakcroft, an MP that has been in the chamber for years and whose long standing ambitions reach far more then his actual abilities- must people consider Oakcroft a waste of space, which leaves Maxwell to deal with the mundane correspondence.
That is until one day, a member of the public comes into the office who swears they just saw their father in the street- the only problem being is that her dad is supposed to have been killed by her mother!
With his office research Diana (and some help from his sister), Maxwell and co is on the case- a case that gets stranger and stranger, while drawing the reader in with the cleverness of the writing and strong character.
This was a brilliant read which really made me think and I hope we get more books based in the world- even Oakcraft for all his sillyness was enjoyable
Maxwell Murray is the "chief of staff" of himself and one other to long standing MP Eliot Oakcroft, an MP that has been in the chamber for years and whose long standing ambitions reach far more then his actual abilities- must people consider Oakcroft a waste of space, which leaves Maxwell to deal with the mundane correspondence.
That is until one day, a member of the public comes into the office who swears they just saw their father in the street- the only problem being is that her dad is supposed to have been killed by her mother!
With his office research Diana (and some help from his sister), Maxwell and co is on the case- a case that gets stranger and stranger, while drawing the reader in with the cleverness of the writing and strong character.
This was a brilliant read which really made me think and I hope we get more books based in the world- even Oakcraft for all his sillyness was enjoyable
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