What do you think?
Rate this book
Stockingham & Pike #2
The Shadows of Kensington Gore
Not yet published
Expected 12 Jan 27A wickedly funny sequel to The Murder at World’s End from #1 New York Times bestselling author Ross Montgomery that will delight fans of Knives Out and Thursday Murder Club. Beloved detective duo, Stockingham & Pike, return to solve a murder in the heart of London! London, 1911. Coronation fever. Suffragette unrest. A city crackling with tension. When a policeman is found brutally murdered on the streets of Kensington, blame falls on the three women seen fleeing the scene. As riots flare and the city teeters on chaos, the case falls to the most unlikely detective duo in sharp-tongued octogenarian, Miss Decima Stockingham, and her loyal servant, Stephen Pike, who also happens to have been the first on the scene of the crime. Miss Decima, brilliant, fearless and bored of behaving herself, is the only one able to see that this case is not what it seems. Aided by an invisible network of maids—their eyes and ears in every house in London—this unlikely duo must catch the killer before time runs out. But in a city dazzled by ceremony and divided by change, you never know what might be lurking in the shadows... Your favorite duo return in this witty and gripping historical mystery, where Downton Abbey meets Sherlock.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 12, 2027
About the author
Ross Montgomery
37 books693 followersRoss Montgomery has worked as a pig farmer, a postman and a primary school teacher, so writing books was the next logical step. He spent his childhood reading everything he could get his hands on, from Jacqueline Wilson to Beano annuals, and it taught him pretty much everything that's worth knowing. If you looked through his pockets you'd find empty crisp packets, lists of things to do, and a bottle of that stuff you put on your nails to stop you biting them. He lives in London with his girlfriend, a cat called Fun Bobby, and a cactus on every available surface.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
London 1911, and with the King’s impending Coronation and Suffragette unrest, the city is already seething with atmosphere and tension.
Then, during pre-celebrations, a policeman is found brutally murdered in the streets of Kensington Gore, with a purple green and white ribbon, (a symbol of the suffragette movement), on his person. The only witness is Stephen Pike, butler and assistant to detective, Miss Decima Stockingham.
Three women were seen fleeing the scene of the murder, but Decima thinks there is more to it than meets the eye. Decima has a wicked temper, and a potty mouth to match, but her detecting skills are second to none. So this unlikely duo must find the killer or killers before the King’s coronation, because, if it is the suffragettes, could they be planning further attacks to disrupt the Coronation?
Decima and Stephen make for a most unlikely pair, but the banter between them is hilarious.
This is a complex but clever tale, and expert use of smoke and mirrors gives the reader little chance to deduce whodunnit! Very enjoyable and a great follow up to “The Murder at World’s End”.
*My thanks to Penguin Publishing, Viking, for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Then, during pre-celebrations, a policeman is found brutally murdered in the streets of Kensington Gore, with a purple green and white ribbon, (a symbol of the suffragette movement), on his person. The only witness is Stephen Pike, butler and assistant to detective, Miss Decima Stockingham.
Three women were seen fleeing the scene of the murder, but Decima thinks there is more to it than meets the eye. Decima has a wicked temper, and a potty mouth to match, but her detecting skills are second to none. So this unlikely duo must find the killer or killers before the King’s coronation, because, if it is the suffragettes, could they be planning further attacks to disrupt the Coronation?
Decima and Stephen make for a most unlikely pair, but the banter between them is hilarious.
This is a complex but clever tale, and expert use of smoke and mirrors gives the reader little chance to deduce whodunnit! Very enjoyable and a great follow up to “The Murder at World’s End”.
*My thanks to Penguin Publishing, Viking, for my ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First off, I just want to let everyone know that after I submit this review, I will only have one (one!) ARC left on my NetGalley TBR. This literally has not happened a single time since I discovered NetGalley and all of its sweet, sweet free books a few years ago. It'll never last, but it's nice to be (almost) caught up for once and it proves that I've gotten at least a little better with the self control. Or should that be shelf control? (Ha! I'll see myself out.)
Ahem.
Anyway, this book was fantastic. I think I possibly even liked it better than the first? I really need to reread the ending of The Murder at World's End to figure out how Miss Decima and Stephen wind up in Kensington running a detective agency in this novel — it's a huge change in location and circumstances — but I'm certainly not complaining because it makes for a delightful and highly entertaining read. There's humor. There's murder. There's conspiracy. There's … a secret network of undercover maids who are all (sort of) named Ivy?
And best of all, it's all set against the historically factual backdrop of the British suffragette movement. I mean, obviously not all of it is factual, but certain events and people are pulled straight from history, and I daresay that the real-life suffragettes could have benefitted from having a Miss Decima (and Stephen, of course) in their corner.
This isn't, perhaps, the most believable or unconvoluted mystery ever. There's a great deal of happenstance involved, and the murder is definitely “something complicated disguised as something simple.” But if you suspend some disbelief and just accept that the improbable shenanigans are going to be, well … improbable and shenanigan-y, it's all a lot of fun … especially if you're a fan of mayhem and the gratuitous use of a certain f-word.
And … yeah. I guess I really don't have a ton to say about this one, because if you've read The Murder at World's End you already have a pretty good idea of what to expect. The setting and circumstances are different, but Miss Decima is still Miss Decima and she's what really makes this book shine.
My overall rating: 4.75 stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is January 12, 2027.
Ahem.
Anyway, this book was fantastic. I think I possibly even liked it better than the first? I really need to reread the ending of The Murder at World's End to figure out how Miss Decima and Stephen wind up in Kensington running a detective agency in this novel — it's a huge change in location and circumstances — but I'm certainly not complaining because it makes for a delightful and highly entertaining read. There's humor. There's murder. There's conspiracy. There's … a secret network of undercover maids who are all (sort of) named Ivy?
And best of all, it's all set against the historically factual backdrop of the British suffragette movement. I mean, obviously not all of it is factual, but certain events and people are pulled straight from history, and I daresay that the real-life suffragettes could have benefitted from having a Miss Decima (and Stephen, of course) in their corner.
This isn't, perhaps, the most believable or unconvoluted mystery ever. There's a great deal of happenstance involved, and the murder is definitely “something complicated disguised as something simple.” But if you suspend some disbelief and just accept that the improbable shenanigans are going to be, well … improbable and shenanigan-y, it's all a lot of fun … especially if you're a fan of mayhem and the gratuitous use of a certain f-word.
And … yeah. I guess I really don't have a ton to say about this one, because if you've read The Murder at World's End you already have a pretty good idea of what to expect. The setting and circumstances are different, but Miss Decima is still Miss Decima and she's what really makes this book shine.
My overall rating: 4.75 stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is January 12, 2027.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was London in 1911 and the suffragette movement was in full swing, with unrest rippling through the city. It was also the time of the coronation and there was only a few days to go until it took place. When a policemen was found murdered during the suffragette celebrations, and three women were seen fleeing the scene, the police had those women on the top of their list. Stephen Pike, assistant to Miss Decima Stockingham, private detective, was the first on scene to the police officer's death - and the police had him in their sights as well.
With Miss Decima's maids - all twenty four named Ivy with an attached nickname - searching homes and doing Miss Decima's bidding, while Stephen took her where she needed to be, and did her bidding as well, they knew they were racing time. Before the event of the coronation, they needed to find the person who had killed the policeman. And Miss Decima never failed - did she?
The Shadows of Kensington Gore is the 2nd in the Stockingham & Pike Mystery by Ross Montgomery and it was so much fun, as was the first one in the series. Miss Decima is a character to be reckoned with! Sharp tongued, fearless, her voice extremely loud on occasion, while quiet when needed, she had a heart of gold, but no one was to mention it. I thoroughly enjoyed this historical cosy mystery, and look forward to #3. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Penguin UK for my digital ARC to read and review.
With Miss Decima's maids - all twenty four named Ivy with an attached nickname - searching homes and doing Miss Decima's bidding, while Stephen took her where she needed to be, and did her bidding as well, they knew they were racing time. Before the event of the coronation, they needed to find the person who had killed the policeman. And Miss Decima never failed - did she?
The Shadows of Kensington Gore is the 2nd in the Stockingham & Pike Mystery by Ross Montgomery and it was so much fun, as was the first one in the series. Miss Decima is a character to be reckoned with! Sharp tongued, fearless, her voice extremely loud on occasion, while quiet when needed, she had a heart of gold, but no one was to mention it. I thoroughly enjoyed this historical cosy mystery, and look forward to #3. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Penguin UK for my digital ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the second in the historical mystery series featuring Miss Decima Stockingham and her footman and assistant, Stephen Pike. We first met them in 1910 - it is now a year later, and they are living at 89c Kensington Gore Mansions. Miss Decima has set up as a private investigator but longs for a bigger case.
This is set during the time of the suffragette movement. Miss Decima asks Stephen to take her to a meeting, but his attention is diverted when he sees a policeman chasing three women. This event ends in murder, and when Mrs Pankhurst fears that the crime will result in the suffragettes being blamed and the government clamping down with public safety measures which may end the movement for votes for women. Turning to Miss Decima, it is up to her, Stephen and 'The Ivys' - young women who work undercover - to solve the crime.
I enjoyed the first in this series, and I am pleased to say that I liked the second as much. It has a lot of humour, and I like the rather hapless Stephen and her fearsome employer. I look forward to reading more of their adventures and received a copy of this book via NetGalley for review.
This is set during the time of the suffragette movement. Miss Decima asks Stephen to take her to a meeting, but his attention is diverted when he sees a policeman chasing three women. This event ends in murder, and when Mrs Pankhurst fears that the crime will result in the suffragettes being blamed and the government clamping down with public safety measures which may end the movement for votes for women. Turning to Miss Decima, it is up to her, Stephen and 'The Ivys' - young women who work undercover - to solve the crime.
I enjoyed the first in this series, and I am pleased to say that I liked the second as much. It has a lot of humour, and I like the rather hapless Stephen and her fearsome employer. I look forward to reading more of their adventures and received a copy of this book via NetGalley for review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed the first installment "The Murder at World's End", so I was crossing my fingers that the sequel would live up to the original—and Ross Montgomery did not disappoint. The Shadows of Kensington Gore is a very enjoyable sequel that is every bit as sharp, twisty, and entertaining as the first book.
The absolute highlight of this series remains its great characters. The dynamic between the unconventional Miss Decima and her assistant/under-butler, Stephen, is pure gold. They are the ultimate unlikely duo, and their banter and contrasting approaches to crime-solving. Set against the vivid, atmospheric backdrop of 1911 London—complete with coronation fever and heavy Suffragette unrest—the plot hits the ground running. The historical details are brilliantly woven in, the pacing is fast, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the final pages. If you love historical cozy mysteries with energetic character chemistry, a dash of humor, and plenty of clever twists, do not miss this series! I'm looking forward to the next installment. A brilliant, delightfully witty historical mystery!
The absolute highlight of this series remains its great characters. The dynamic between the unconventional Miss Decima and her assistant/under-butler, Stephen, is pure gold. They are the ultimate unlikely duo, and their banter and contrasting approaches to crime-solving. Set against the vivid, atmospheric backdrop of 1911 London—complete with coronation fever and heavy Suffragette unrest—the plot hits the ground running. The historical details are brilliantly woven in, the pacing is fast, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the final pages. If you love historical cozy mysteries with energetic character chemistry, a dash of humor, and plenty of clever twists, do not miss this series! I'm looking forward to the next installment. A brilliant, delightfully witty historical mystery!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Shadows of Kensington Gore sees the welcome return of my favourite heroine, Miss Decima Stockingham, and her assistant, ex Borstal boy, Stephen Pike. The pair are living in London now, in an apartment on Kensington Gore. Miss Decima is a detective, and while Stephen tends to her every need, he also helps with her investigations. But Miss Decima is bored with the cases that have been coming her way because, in every instance, the butler did it. Oh, how she would love a good murder to solve. 🔎
London, 1911. The city has coronation fever, and there is Suffragette unrest. When a policeman is murdered outside Miss Decima's apartment building, the blame falls on three suffragettes who were seen fleeing the scene. Miss Decima finally has a murder to investigate. 🔎
Although a little more serious than its predecessor, The Murder at World's End, this was a fun read. The interactions between Miss Decima and Stephen are hilarious. Miss Decima has a potty mouth, whereas Stephen comes across as prudish. Together though, they make a formidable team. 🔎
Likeable characters (even the bad guys), suffragettes, bombs, murder, and Stephen's introduction to Poitín, this book has it all. 🔎
Thanks to Viking Books UK and Netgalley for the ARC.
London, 1911. The city has coronation fever, and there is Suffragette unrest. When a policeman is murdered outside Miss Decima's apartment building, the blame falls on three suffragettes who were seen fleeing the scene. Miss Decima finally has a murder to investigate. 🔎
Although a little more serious than its predecessor, The Murder at World's End, this was a fun read. The interactions between Miss Decima and Stephen are hilarious. Miss Decima has a potty mouth, whereas Stephen comes across as prudish. Together though, they make a formidable team. 🔎
Likeable characters (even the bad guys), suffragettes, bombs, murder, and Stephen's introduction to Poitín, this book has it all. 🔎
Thanks to Viking Books UK and Netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars
I read the first book in this series earlier in the year and loved it and was so happy to pick up this sequel. And I can tell you it did not let me down.
We follow Decima and Stephen as they investigate the vicious murder of a policeman on the street outside their house. Blame has fallen on three suffragettes seen running from the officer just prior to his death, but they're nowhere to be found and the reputation of the suffrage movement is in tatters.
Decima continues to be delightful and has to be one of the best characters I've read recently. She's prickly, bad tempered, razor-sharp, and has absolutely no desire to do anything expected of a woman of her age and position. And Stephen is just so likeable and has a heart of gold. His fumbles and moments of humanity are so endearing and it's so fun to see him also get his moments of detective brilliance as we try to figure out the mystery alongside him.
Some of the plot points are slightly ridiculous and require a bit of a leap of logic, but its such an enjoyable story it really didn't matter or alter my enjoyment at all. It was a such a fun and clever mystery, with red herrings and an atmosphere of real tension, and I enjoyed the resolution a lot.
Set during the tense political landscape of the fight for women's right to vote, it has a serious and high stakes underpinning to it, and I actually feel like I came to learn a lot about this time period and the politics around it. I had a very general knowledge already, but I certainly feel like I have more of an appreciation for what these women went through than I did before. But amongst all of that, it still maintained the banter we've come to love between Decima and Stephen, and the moments of levity throughout make these books so much fun to read.
I read this in one sitting, and this series has really solidified itself as a favourite for me.
Thank you to Penguin General UK | Viking and NetGalley for the ARC!
I read the first book in this series earlier in the year and loved it and was so happy to pick up this sequel. And I can tell you it did not let me down.
We follow Decima and Stephen as they investigate the vicious murder of a policeman on the street outside their house. Blame has fallen on three suffragettes seen running from the officer just prior to his death, but they're nowhere to be found and the reputation of the suffrage movement is in tatters.
Decima continues to be delightful and has to be one of the best characters I've read recently. She's prickly, bad tempered, razor-sharp, and has absolutely no desire to do anything expected of a woman of her age and position. And Stephen is just so likeable and has a heart of gold. His fumbles and moments of humanity are so endearing and it's so fun to see him also get his moments of detective brilliance as we try to figure out the mystery alongside him.
Some of the plot points are slightly ridiculous and require a bit of a leap of logic, but its such an enjoyable story it really didn't matter or alter my enjoyment at all. It was a such a fun and clever mystery, with red herrings and an atmosphere of real tension, and I enjoyed the resolution a lot.
Set during the tense political landscape of the fight for women's right to vote, it has a serious and high stakes underpinning to it, and I actually feel like I came to learn a lot about this time period and the politics around it. I had a very general knowledge already, but I certainly feel like I have more of an appreciation for what these women went through than I did before. But amongst all of that, it still maintained the banter we've come to love between Decima and Stephen, and the moments of levity throughout make these books so much fun to read.
I read this in one sitting, and this series has really solidified itself as a favourite for me.
Thank you to Penguin General UK | Viking and NetGalley for the ARC!
Read
October 9, 2026The second in the Stockingham and Pike series, this book is set in 1911, a year after the events of Murder at World's End, and Miss Decima Stockingham and her assistant, Stephen Pike, are now living in Kensington. It is a week before the coronation of King George V and the Suffragette movement is in full force. When a police constable is brutally murdered right outside Miss Decima's front door, the blame immediately falls on a trio of women seen running near the scene. But Miss Decima knows that all is not as it seems, and so she and Stephen set out to solve the mystery.
This is an enjoyable and compelling historical mystery, and I can see why the series is described as 'a romp', because it really is huge fun. Miss Decima is a powerhouse of a character but Stephen is the heart of the book, convincingly flawed and talented in equal measure. The historical background feels easy and natural, and the complex politics of the time are explained in a way that's very accessible. Once you start, you won't want to put it down. A ripping good read!
This is an enjoyable and compelling historical mystery, and I can see why the series is described as 'a romp', because it really is huge fun. Miss Decima is a powerhouse of a character but Stephen is the heart of the book, convincingly flawed and talented in equal measure. The historical background feels easy and natural, and the complex politics of the time are explained in a way that's very accessible. Once you start, you won't want to put it down. A ripping good read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First of all, a thank you to Penguin Publishing House UK for inviting me to read this scarf through netgalley.
I loved this a lot, just as I did book 1. Its incredibly fun, twisty, a little bit unlikely but thrilling. For now I rate this book 4.5 stars, I'll see if this changes over time.
Stephen is one of my favourite main characters I have read. You can also see his true character progress, change, mature, but also display such pure emotions that I often miss in other books.
Decima is still great, though some parts were getting repetitive. Throwing books and slamming silver bells was ever fun though. Poor books.
Starting from the mystery, it did feel a bit more serious than in book 1, which I liked, but certain characters may have been overplayed a bit for comedic relief (e.g. Mr Benson). It was fun as always following Stephen and Decima through the developments of it all.
An interesting addition to the cast in my opinion were also the Ivy's. They're also somewhat of an example of overplayed relief, but I liked them nonetheless.
From here on out I will get into more details of the story so
!!!Spoilers!!!!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Poor Peter. I didn't really like him much but that's just sad. Also still don't know how to feel about the football game and side tackling.
I kinda do wish it hadn't been stated from the start that the suffragettes weren't the killers. It would've made for more interesting developments in my opinion.
This time I didn't quite predict the ending, but that might also be because 1. There was a far larger cast of suspects and 2. Because it's completely focused around making it so unlikely that nobody would ever suspect a thing.
This book shows both the shine and the horror of the suffragettes. The pain inflicted upon them, yet the damage they do to everyone else. The views on this movement. The effects. The show of a not so simple happily ever after.
I'd also doubt Clarence would actually manage to play it off that convincingly, though cocaine does do odd things to people don't it. As he said, Theodora was too trusting.
I really liked Eimhear though, I think she and Cath are very interesting and nice characters that were wringer by being portrayed so badly from the start.
Finally, my primary point. Why oh why, did they have to introduce Flora? She's nice and all, a bit too posh just like Lavinia, but why do they have to make another live interest for Stephen? And make it look like he likes her back? Hell no.
I love Temperance - Poison Ivy that she is - and I have since book 1. She is my favourite character and she deserves the world. Of course you don't just forgive someone for trying to kill you twice, but I wish it was more in detail shown how the two progress and rebuild their relationship rather than shoving her to the side and adding in a random college girl. Flora is not for Stephen. With Temperance however I could imagine that once Decima in a good 20 years passes, those two could continue her agency. They would work together splendidly and balance each other out.
I suppose I'll have to see when book 3 comes out. It's clear this series is going to continue and I'll be right here when it does, waiting.
I recommend this to everyone with an interest in mystery but not wanting to go too dark. On the other hand, for those who regularly read mystery it might read a bit too immature, but I still think it's a great and fun book.
I forgot I mention, I did actually fall asleep reading the final reveal, though that was mostly because a lot of it was repeating what had happened in an odd setting lol
I loved this a lot, just as I did book 1. Its incredibly fun, twisty, a little bit unlikely but thrilling. For now I rate this book 4.5 stars, I'll see if this changes over time.
Stephen is one of my favourite main characters I have read. You can also see his true character progress, change, mature, but also display such pure emotions that I often miss in other books.
Decima is still great, though some parts were getting repetitive. Throwing books and slamming silver bells was ever fun though. Poor books.
Starting from the mystery, it did feel a bit more serious than in book 1, which I liked, but certain characters may have been overplayed a bit for comedic relief (e.g. Mr Benson). It was fun as always following Stephen and Decima through the developments of it all.
An interesting addition to the cast in my opinion were also the Ivy's. They're also somewhat of an example of overplayed relief, but I liked them nonetheless.
From here on out I will get into more details of the story so
!!!Spoilers!!!!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Poor Peter. I didn't really like him much but that's just sad. Also still don't know how to feel about the football game and side tackling.
I kinda do wish it hadn't been stated from the start that the suffragettes weren't the killers. It would've made for more interesting developments in my opinion.
This time I didn't quite predict the ending, but that might also be because 1. There was a far larger cast of suspects and 2. Because it's completely focused around making it so unlikely that nobody would ever suspect a thing.
This book shows both the shine and the horror of the suffragettes. The pain inflicted upon them, yet the damage they do to everyone else. The views on this movement. The effects. The show of a not so simple happily ever after.
I'd also doubt Clarence would actually manage to play it off that convincingly, though cocaine does do odd things to people don't it. As he said, Theodora was too trusting.
I really liked Eimhear though, I think she and Cath are very interesting and nice characters that were wringer by being portrayed so badly from the start.
Finally, my primary point. Why oh why, did they have to introduce Flora? She's nice and all, a bit too posh just like Lavinia, but why do they have to make another live interest for Stephen? And make it look like he likes her back? Hell no.
I love Temperance - Poison Ivy that she is - and I have since book 1. She is my favourite character and she deserves the world. Of course you don't just forgive someone for trying to kill you twice, but I wish it was more in detail shown how the two progress and rebuild their relationship rather than shoving her to the side and adding in a random college girl. Flora is not for Stephen. With Temperance however I could imagine that once Decima in a good 20 years passes, those two could continue her agency. They would work together splendidly and balance each other out.
I suppose I'll have to see when book 3 comes out. It's clear this series is going to continue and I'll be right here when it does, waiting.
I recommend this to everyone with an interest in mystery but not wanting to go too dark. On the other hand, for those who regularly read mystery it might read a bit too immature, but I still think it's a great and fun book.
I forgot I mention, I did actually fall asleep reading the final reveal, though that was mostly because a lot of it was repeating what had happened in an odd setting lol
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I had a good time reading The Shadows of Kensington Gore. The characters, humour and political backdrop were probably the strongest parts for me and I especially loved how the suffrage movement was completely woven into it.
Stephen was probably my favourite part of the book. His development is handled in a way that feels much more believable than simply having him learn one easy lesson and then problem solved. He can be frustratingly simplistic about things at times but that also felt very recognisable. People can walk headfirst into the point and still not quite understand it until something affects them personally. What I liked most was that his understanding of class, gender and power became more complicated as the book went on rather than just being replaced by another tidy worldview.
His relationship with Decima is still the heart of the story. They both bring something genuinely different to the investigation: Decima has the experience, confidence and method while Stephen notices things because of his own background and lived experience. Where either of them tends to falter is often where their own privilege has got in the way. Their dynamic is very funny too although occasionally the comedy pushes both of their worst traits far enough that it tips into being a little bit cringe for me. Decima in particular is hilarious to read about but I think she would drive me absolutely up the wall in real life! As long as she remains fictional then I will continue to love her.
The mystery itself kept me properly engaged. I had a theory quite early on that I stuck with then the book kept piling on evidence that made me wonder whether I had completely talked myself into nonsense. I really enjoyed that. There are also lots of details that initially seem like side quests or strange little background moments but eventually matter which made the whole thing feel tightly connected.
I also appreciated that the suffragettes weren’t written as uncomplicated saints. The book allows the politics and the people involved in them to be messy while still making a very clear point about prejudice and the way people will interpret evidence through whatever story they already expect to be true.
Where it lost me slightly was in the final stretch. I liked the solution and a lot of the individual clues paid off really well but too much of the explanation eventually came through people sitting in a room telling us what had happened rather than letting us discover it alongside them. I don’t mind a traditional end-of-mystery recap but here some of the actual solving felt as though it had been moved into the explanation afterwards. One chapter in particular went on long enough that I started feeling like I was being briefed on the mystery rather than experiencing it.
Thankfully, the book recovered for me afterwards with a couple of reveals that happened properly in the moment and I really liked where it left Stephen and Decima.
So, not quite a five star read because the delivery of the final solution was a little disappointing for me but there was far too much here that I genuinely enjoyed to be less than a four. Stephen and Decima remain a brilliant pairing, the humour mostly worked for me, and the combination of historical politics and mystery was very cleverly done.
Stephen was probably my favourite part of the book. His development is handled in a way that feels much more believable than simply having him learn one easy lesson and then problem solved. He can be frustratingly simplistic about things at times but that also felt very recognisable. People can walk headfirst into the point and still not quite understand it until something affects them personally. What I liked most was that his understanding of class, gender and power became more complicated as the book went on rather than just being replaced by another tidy worldview.
His relationship with Decima is still the heart of the story. They both bring something genuinely different to the investigation: Decima has the experience, confidence and method while Stephen notices things because of his own background and lived experience. Where either of them tends to falter is often where their own privilege has got in the way. Their dynamic is very funny too although occasionally the comedy pushes both of their worst traits far enough that it tips into being a little bit cringe for me. Decima in particular is hilarious to read about but I think she would drive me absolutely up the wall in real life! As long as she remains fictional then I will continue to love her.
The mystery itself kept me properly engaged. I had a theory quite early on that I stuck with then the book kept piling on evidence that made me wonder whether I had completely talked myself into nonsense. I really enjoyed that. There are also lots of details that initially seem like side quests or strange little background moments but eventually matter which made the whole thing feel tightly connected.
I also appreciated that the suffragettes weren’t written as uncomplicated saints. The book allows the politics and the people involved in them to be messy while still making a very clear point about prejudice and the way people will interpret evidence through whatever story they already expect to be true.
Where it lost me slightly was in the final stretch. I liked the solution and a lot of the individual clues paid off really well but too much of the explanation eventually came through people sitting in a room telling us what had happened rather than letting us discover it alongside them. I don’t mind a traditional end-of-mystery recap but here some of the actual solving felt as though it had been moved into the explanation afterwards. One chapter in particular went on long enough that I started feeling like I was being briefed on the mystery rather than experiencing it.
Thankfully, the book recovered for me afterwards with a couple of reveals that happened properly in the moment and I really liked where it left Stephen and Decima.
So, not quite a five star read because the delivery of the final solution was a little disappointing for me but there was far too much here that I genuinely enjoyed to be less than a four. Stephen and Decima remain a brilliant pairing, the humour mostly worked for me, and the combination of historical politics and mystery was very cleverly done.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such an enjoyable mystery! I really liked the author's writing style, it's fast paced, engaging and very easy to get swept up in. I finished the book in just two days, which is always a good sign for me.
Although this is the first book I've read by Ross Montgomery and it appears to be part of a series, I had no trouble following the story or keeping track of the characters. The novel follows mis Decima and her side kick - servant and assistant, Stephen, as they investigate the murder of a police officer. The main suspects are three suffragettes and the investigation takes us into the fascinating world of early 1900s London and the suffragette movement.
I really love the two main characters. Miss Decima is a bored elderly aristocrat with a foul mouth and truly terrible temperament, who spends her time investigating what might seem like petty household crimes with the help of her unusual Ivy network. She is a wonderfully entertaining character, eccentric, sharp-tongued and certainly not someone you would want to cross.
Stephen is the perfect companion for her. He is intelligent and knows exactly how to handle miss Decima's outbursts. He clearly respects and admires her and he takes pride in his work, although he can also be slightly hopeless at times. Their interaction brings plenty of humor to the story and I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between them.
The mystery itself is very well done, with plenty of twists and cleverly planted clues. Just when I thought I had worked out who the culprit was, something else would make me question my theory. The clues are nicely woven into the story, keeping you guessing right up until the very end.
I also enjoyed the historical setting. The descriptions of London in the early 1900s and the backdrop of the suffragette movement add another interesting layer to the mystery without overwhelming the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It's a fun, witty, fast paced mystery with memorable characters, plenty of twists and a great historical setting. The relationship between miss Decima and Stephen adds just the right amount of humor to the investigation.
This was my first Ross Montgomery book, but it definitely won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
* This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Although this is the first book I've read by Ross Montgomery and it appears to be part of a series, I had no trouble following the story or keeping track of the characters. The novel follows mis Decima and her side kick - servant and assistant, Stephen, as they investigate the murder of a police officer. The main suspects are three suffragettes and the investigation takes us into the fascinating world of early 1900s London and the suffragette movement.
I really love the two main characters. Miss Decima is a bored elderly aristocrat with a foul mouth and truly terrible temperament, who spends her time investigating what might seem like petty household crimes with the help of her unusual Ivy network. She is a wonderfully entertaining character, eccentric, sharp-tongued and certainly not someone you would want to cross.
Stephen is the perfect companion for her. He is intelligent and knows exactly how to handle miss Decima's outbursts. He clearly respects and admires her and he takes pride in his work, although he can also be slightly hopeless at times. Their interaction brings plenty of humor to the story and I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between them.
The mystery itself is very well done, with plenty of twists and cleverly planted clues. Just when I thought I had worked out who the culprit was, something else would make me question my theory. The clues are nicely woven into the story, keeping you guessing right up until the very end.
I also enjoyed the historical setting. The descriptions of London in the early 1900s and the backdrop of the suffragette movement add another interesting layer to the mystery without overwhelming the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It's a fun, witty, fast paced mystery with memorable characters, plenty of twists and a great historical setting. The relationship between miss Decima and Stephen adds just the right amount of humor to the investigation.
This was my first Ross Montgomery book, but it definitely won't be my last. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
* This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It's great to be back with the incorrigible and indomitable Miss Decima and her slightly hopeless manservant/assistant/butler/general dogsbody, Stephen, as the two take on their second quite serious case. This one, perhaps even more so, because while the first dealt with personal family drama, the second plot could change the political landscape.
The two have been living in London for a while, now, solving small, local crimes that are easily untangled by Miss Decima. But petty household crimes are starting to grow stale - the foul-mouthed octogenarian desires something more - a challenge! And she and Stephen do not so much stumble upon it, as have it - a brutal and violent murder - happen on their very doorstep. The victim? A police officer. The suspected murderers? Three suffragettes, seen running off into an alley, the policeman in hot pursuit. When he's found minutes later with his throat slit, all evidence points to them as the perpetrators. But could something more complicated be going on? Have the women been framed?
It's a tangled tease of a story, with false leads and red herrings, talking Stephen through the darker side of the suffragettes' actions in the early 1900s. Yes, their cause was a noble one, and yes, it (eventually) led to a change for the better, but their actions were not always good and noble. There was violence - mostly property damage - and riots. The way they were treated was abysmal; the way the working class were treated in general was also pretty poor. I felt Montgomery dealt with what could be a difficult topic to write about, with respect.
There were several surprises along the way, and whilst I figured out some of what the heck was going on, I didn't piece the whole story together, and found the revelation unexpected but inevitable. As it should be. Stephen was his typically slightly hopeless in some ways, but surprisingly effective in others, self - I enjoy the fact that for all that he's from the rougher side of the tracks, and was indeed once jailed for murder, he's also very houseproud, loved his Nan, and whilst he is frequently frustrated by Miss Decima, clearly respects and admires her.
Overall, an entertaining follow-up that also lead me into reading more about the Suffragette movement.
Thanks to NetGalley for not only giving me the advanced copy, but also telling me about it in the first place!
The two have been living in London for a while, now, solving small, local crimes that are easily untangled by Miss Decima. But petty household crimes are starting to grow stale - the foul-mouthed octogenarian desires something more - a challenge! And she and Stephen do not so much stumble upon it, as have it - a brutal and violent murder - happen on their very doorstep. The victim? A police officer. The suspected murderers? Three suffragettes, seen running off into an alley, the policeman in hot pursuit. When he's found minutes later with his throat slit, all evidence points to them as the perpetrators. But could something more complicated be going on? Have the women been framed?
It's a tangled tease of a story, with false leads and red herrings, talking Stephen through the darker side of the suffragettes' actions in the early 1900s. Yes, their cause was a noble one, and yes, it (eventually) led to a change for the better, but their actions were not always good and noble. There was violence - mostly property damage - and riots. The way they were treated was abysmal; the way the working class were treated in general was also pretty poor. I felt Montgomery dealt with what could be a difficult topic to write about, with respect.
There were several surprises along the way, and whilst I figured out some of what the heck was going on, I didn't piece the whole story together, and found the revelation unexpected but inevitable. As it should be. Stephen was his typically slightly hopeless in some ways, but surprisingly effective in others, self - I enjoy the fact that for all that he's from the rougher side of the tracks, and was indeed once jailed for murder, he's also very houseproud, loved his Nan, and whilst he is frequently frustrated by Miss Decima, clearly respects and admires her.
Overall, an entertaining follow-up that also lead me into reading more about the Suffragette movement.
Thanks to NetGalley for not only giving me the advanced copy, but also telling me about it in the first place!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When you wholeheartedly loved the first book in a series, there is some trepidation going into the second book. However, that was unfounded with this one as Ross Montgomery - beg pardon- freaking did it again! Stephen and Miss Decima are back and as entertaining as ever!
The publisher's synopsis is excellent, so I won't attempt my own summary, but I will say that I really appreciated how Montgomery wove the story around the suffragette movement. He didn't sugar coat anything, but instead presented these women in such a real way that you felt their humanity, even if you didn't agree with all of their choices. Same goes for the public's and police's actions and feelings towards the women, though quite frankly I was horrified to learn some of the things that happened at the time. This was obviously an important moment in history, and it felt like the author was very purposeful in how he incorporated it into the story, rather than it feeling like it was only there to add some spice to the plot, if that makes sense. In reading the acknowledgments, I was even more appreciative of Montgomery's thoughtfulness in what he chose to include and why.
Format wise, this carried on the same way as the first book, where each section is a day, and each chapter in that section is a different time of that day. This really works for me personally, I think something about not needing to keep track of how much time has passed makes it easy for me to just sink into the moment and enjoy the ride. Another carry over from the first book, each section includes an actual article/advertisement that ran at the time the story takes place. I love how that detail adds just a little extra to the overall tone and setting.
Final thoughts, I just really loved this book. The characters are endearing, the pacing is excellent, and the plot held serve all the way to the end. I cannot recommend this one enough!
Thank you to William Morrow for allowing me the delight of reading an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
The publisher's synopsis is excellent, so I won't attempt my own summary, but I will say that I really appreciated how Montgomery wove the story around the suffragette movement. He didn't sugar coat anything, but instead presented these women in such a real way that you felt their humanity, even if you didn't agree with all of their choices. Same goes for the public's and police's actions and feelings towards the women, though quite frankly I was horrified to learn some of the things that happened at the time. This was obviously an important moment in history, and it felt like the author was very purposeful in how he incorporated it into the story, rather than it feeling like it was only there to add some spice to the plot, if that makes sense. In reading the acknowledgments, I was even more appreciative of Montgomery's thoughtfulness in what he chose to include and why.
Format wise, this carried on the same way as the first book, where each section is a day, and each chapter in that section is a different time of that day. This really works for me personally, I think something about not needing to keep track of how much time has passed makes it easy for me to just sink into the moment and enjoy the ride. Another carry over from the first book, each section includes an actual article/advertisement that ran at the time the story takes place. I love how that detail adds just a little extra to the overall tone and setting.
Final thoughts, I just really loved this book. The characters are endearing, the pacing is excellent, and the plot held serve all the way to the end. I cannot recommend this one enough!
Thank you to William Morrow for allowing me the delight of reading an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own and freely given.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Viking for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I LOVED the first book in this series - The Murder at World's End - and I've been looking forward to the sequel ever since.
The first book was his debut adult book and he was finding his feet. But with this one, he's truly found and honed his voice and even though the first one was a five star read, this somehow reads even better. It feels more sure of itself.
This was part of the suffragette movement I didn't know about so it was interesting to learn about that period. It also helps ground the fictional story into reality.
Miss Decima is as delightful as ever. Foul mouthed and rude, but I can't help but love her, she's a fantastic creation. Although if I was Stephen I'd feel more than a little irked by her behaviour. Stephen is a bigger role in this. Now I know he was the main character in the first book but he was still quite timid, not sure what he was doing. But he's come into his own here and his and Decima's double act is hilarious. Their voices are so clear and they're just wonderful to follow.
The first book had an easier ride because it was new, his first adult debut, there was nothing to compare it to, and it was fabulous. So this sequel was always going to have a lot to live up to because now there's something to compare it to. But you needn't worry as it's just as great.
There are a lot of characters and subplots and threads to keep together. Under a less accomplished writer, it might have felt convoluted and too much, but Ross has managed it so well that everyone and everything feels worthy of its place in the story.
There were so many reveals at the end, tying up every loose end, and unsurprisingly, I saw none of them coming.
How long can this series go on for? Hopefully a long time. It's destined to become a crime classic like if Poirot and Marple teamed up - but with more swearing.
I LOVED the first book in this series - The Murder at World's End - and I've been looking forward to the sequel ever since.
The first book was his debut adult book and he was finding his feet. But with this one, he's truly found and honed his voice and even though the first one was a five star read, this somehow reads even better. It feels more sure of itself.
This was part of the suffragette movement I didn't know about so it was interesting to learn about that period. It also helps ground the fictional story into reality.
Miss Decima is as delightful as ever. Foul mouthed and rude, but I can't help but love her, she's a fantastic creation. Although if I was Stephen I'd feel more than a little irked by her behaviour. Stephen is a bigger role in this. Now I know he was the main character in the first book but he was still quite timid, not sure what he was doing. But he's come into his own here and his and Decima's double act is hilarious. Their voices are so clear and they're just wonderful to follow.
The first book had an easier ride because it was new, his first adult debut, there was nothing to compare it to, and it was fabulous. So this sequel was always going to have a lot to live up to because now there's something to compare it to. But you needn't worry as it's just as great.
There are a lot of characters and subplots and threads to keep together. Under a less accomplished writer, it might have felt convoluted and too much, but Ross has managed it so well that everyone and everything feels worthy of its place in the story.
There were so many reveals at the end, tying up every loose end, and unsurprisingly, I saw none of them coming.
How long can this series go on for? Hopefully a long time. It's destined to become a crime classic like if Poirot and Marple teamed up - but with more swearing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Shadows of Kensington Gore is the sequel to The Murder at World's End, which was one of my favourite books of 2025. In this witty and atmospheric historical mystery, our heroes, the potty-mouthed Miss Decima Stockingham and her valet-cum-assistant, Stephen Pike, have moved from Cornwall to London.
It's 1911, and coronation fever and suffragette unrest crackle through the city. When a policeman is found brutally murdered on the streets of Kensington, suspicion falls on three suffragette women seen fleeing the scene. Miss Decima and Stephen are employed by an interested party to discover what really happened. They quickly realise the crime is far more complex than it first appears. With the help of an invisible network of maids known as The Ivys, who serve as the eyes and ears of every household, they race to uncover the truth before chaos overtakes the city.
This book is a little more serious than the debut novel, as the suffragette movement plays a central role in the story. The historical details are cleverly woven into the plot, and I learnt a great deal about the movement and its activities while reading. Nevertheless, the book remains enormous fun. The relationship between Miss Decima and Stephen is beautifully portrayed, and their interactions are consistently hilarious.
One of the highlights of the book is, of course, Miss Decima's colourful choice of language, along with Stephen's attempts to improve his vocabulary. He becomes particularly fond of the phrase "Occam's Razor", and his frequent efforts to work it into conversation had me laughing out loud.
The plot is tight and fast-paced, with plenty of red herrings to keep readers on their toes, and the mystery keeps you guessing right until the end. The final pages are simply wonderful. I had a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes (no spoilers as to why!). I am already looking forward to Miss Decima and Stephen's third adventure.
It's 1911, and coronation fever and suffragette unrest crackle through the city. When a policeman is found brutally murdered on the streets of Kensington, suspicion falls on three suffragette women seen fleeing the scene. Miss Decima and Stephen are employed by an interested party to discover what really happened. They quickly realise the crime is far more complex than it first appears. With the help of an invisible network of maids known as The Ivys, who serve as the eyes and ears of every household, they race to uncover the truth before chaos overtakes the city.
This book is a little more serious than the debut novel, as the suffragette movement plays a central role in the story. The historical details are cleverly woven into the plot, and I learnt a great deal about the movement and its activities while reading. Nevertheless, the book remains enormous fun. The relationship between Miss Decima and Stephen is beautifully portrayed, and their interactions are consistently hilarious.
One of the highlights of the book is, of course, Miss Decima's colourful choice of language, along with Stephen's attempts to improve his vocabulary. He becomes particularly fond of the phrase "Occam's Razor", and his frequent efforts to work it into conversation had me laughing out loud.
The plot is tight and fast-paced, with plenty of red herrings to keep readers on their toes, and the mystery keeps you guessing right until the end. The final pages are simply wonderful. I had a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes (no spoilers as to why!). I am already looking forward to Miss Decima and Stephen's third adventure.
October 9, 2026
I really enjoyed The Murder at Worlds End and so I was looking forward to this follow up - and I was not disappointed. Stephen and Miss Decima are now in London, installed in a mansion block near the Royal Albert Hall. Miss Decima is and running a detective agency from it. But all the cases she is getting are household pilfering and she's is getting bored. Stephen is finding is feet in a new neighbourhood and is growing frustrated that he's not as involved in the detecting as he was hoping - and that he's running the whole household on his own and having books thrown at him when he's not doing things as quickly as Decima wants him to. But all this changes when they go to a Suffragette meeting ahead of the Coronation and Stephen is first on the scene of a murder. This also means he's the police's prime suspect - and so he and Miss Decima are back on the case again.
The atmosphere of pre-Coronation London is great - and so is the portayal of the various factions within the movement for women's suffrage. Too often this can get flattened to just the suffragettes, but this has got the peaceful and the militant factions in the thick of it - as well as all the various movements trying to prevent women from getting the vote. It's also got the working class - or more accurate the servants class view, all of which makes for an intriguing mystery to solve. It's also funny - Stephen's antics as he tries to find his place in the neighbourhood are great, as is Decima and her various foibles. The body count is fairly high - but it manages to balance the light and the shade really well. Miss Decima hasn't changed her character since the first book and so she's as cantankerous and difficult as ever - and the book is trying hard not to soften her into fluffy old lady, which must be a temptation given the rest of the genre.
I raced through this and I really hope that there is a third book coming because this showed that there is plenty of material for mining in London for these two.
****Copy from NetGalley for review consideration*****
The atmosphere of pre-Coronation London is great - and so is the portayal of the various factions within the movement for women's suffrage. Too often this can get flattened to just the suffragettes, but this has got the peaceful and the militant factions in the thick of it - as well as all the various movements trying to prevent women from getting the vote. It's also got the working class - or more accurate the servants class view, all of which makes for an intriguing mystery to solve. It's also funny - Stephen's antics as he tries to find his place in the neighbourhood are great, as is Decima and her various foibles. The body count is fairly high - but it manages to balance the light and the shade really well. Miss Decima hasn't changed her character since the first book and so she's as cantankerous and difficult as ever - and the book is trying hard not to soften her into fluffy old lady, which must be a temptation given the rest of the genre.
I raced through this and I really hope that there is a third book coming because this showed that there is plenty of material for mining in London for these two.
****Copy from NetGalley for review consideration*****
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second book in the series featuring former Borstal boy Stephen Pike and Miss Decima Stockingham, an elderly and infirm aristocrat with a foul mouth, recently released from a form of house imprisonment by her cousin.
Stephen and Miss Stockingham are now living in an apartment in Kensington Gore, a very up-market area close to the Royal Albert Hall in London. Its 1911 and London is preparing for the coronation of King George V, but the Suffragette movement is planning disruption. Stephen escorts Miss Stockingham to a Suffragette rally at the Royal Albert Hall, whilst getting some air high up in the gallery he sees three Suffragettes congregating around the statue of Prince Albert in what he thinks is a suspicious manner when all the other Suffragettes are inside the hall. When a policeman shouts at them and starts running towards them with his truncheon out Stephen is afraid that the policeman will beat the women and runs down into the street, only to find the policeman dying in his own blood.
At first it seems obvious that one or all of the three women must have killed the policeman, but Miss Stockingham raises doubts. Then Mrs Pankhurst herself asks Miss Stockingham to investigate the murder and exonerate the Suffragettes by the end of the week - otherwise the government will use the murder as an excuse to declare the Suffragettes an illegal army. What ensues is a convoluted time-pressured investigation where no-one is who they seem, everyone comes under suspicion, and sadly more people will die.
I really enjoyed this, very different to the first book, lots of clues, and also lots of detailed facts expertly woven into the story about how the establishment treated the Suffragettes - and indeed the different treatment meted out to the aristocracy versus commoners.
I can't wait for the next one.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Stephen and Miss Stockingham are now living in an apartment in Kensington Gore, a very up-market area close to the Royal Albert Hall in London. Its 1911 and London is preparing for the coronation of King George V, but the Suffragette movement is planning disruption. Stephen escorts Miss Stockingham to a Suffragette rally at the Royal Albert Hall, whilst getting some air high up in the gallery he sees three Suffragettes congregating around the statue of Prince Albert in what he thinks is a suspicious manner when all the other Suffragettes are inside the hall. When a policeman shouts at them and starts running towards them with his truncheon out Stephen is afraid that the policeman will beat the women and runs down into the street, only to find the policeman dying in his own blood.
At first it seems obvious that one or all of the three women must have killed the policeman, but Miss Stockingham raises doubts. Then Mrs Pankhurst herself asks Miss Stockingham to investigate the murder and exonerate the Suffragettes by the end of the week - otherwise the government will use the murder as an excuse to declare the Suffragettes an illegal army. What ensues is a convoluted time-pressured investigation where no-one is who they seem, everyone comes under suspicion, and sadly more people will die.
I really enjoyed this, very different to the first book, lots of clues, and also lots of detailed facts expertly woven into the story about how the establishment treated the Suffragettes - and indeed the different treatment meted out to the aristocracy versus commoners.
I can't wait for the next one.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Sherlock Holmes meets Knives Out plus loads of F-bombs!
ARC review - provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
A flipping terrific sequel which takes what I loved about the first book (the humour, the two leads and their relationship, the colourful language), but dialled it up, weaved in more historical elements, and created an even more intricate murder mystery that kept me guessing thoughout its twists and turns.
Where the first story is a locked room murder mystery on a remote Cornish island estate, in this sequel we go to Kensington, London, on the eve of a royal coronation where the murder of a police officer outside the Royal Albert Hall during a suffragette event, with an seemingly all-too-simple solve, draws in Miss Decima Stockingham and her manservant, Stephen Pike, for their next big case.
This isn't just a wash, rinse, repeat of the first book. Historical elements are more contextual in the first book, but are much more relevant to the plot this time around courtesy of the inclusion of the suffragette movement, which also stimulates a furthering of commentary on social injustice.
The pacey plot was engaging, and the murder mystery was as fun to try to solve as its resolution was satisfying, however the stars of the show (yet again) are Miss Decima and Stephen - the development of their relationship, oscillating in it's social and power dynamics which often create moments of tension but also brief moments of heart-rending resolution.
Montgomery has hit two home runs so far, and I dearly - beg pardon - flipping hope for further installments.
ARC review - provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
A flipping terrific sequel which takes what I loved about the first book (the humour, the two leads and their relationship, the colourful language), but dialled it up, weaved in more historical elements, and created an even more intricate murder mystery that kept me guessing thoughout its twists and turns.
Where the first story is a locked room murder mystery on a remote Cornish island estate, in this sequel we go to Kensington, London, on the eve of a royal coronation where the murder of a police officer outside the Royal Albert Hall during a suffragette event, with an seemingly all-too-simple solve, draws in Miss Decima Stockingham and her manservant, Stephen Pike, for their next big case.
This isn't just a wash, rinse, repeat of the first book. Historical elements are more contextual in the first book, but are much more relevant to the plot this time around courtesy of the inclusion of the suffragette movement, which also stimulates a furthering of commentary on social injustice.
The pacey plot was engaging, and the murder mystery was as fun to try to solve as its resolution was satisfying, however the stars of the show (yet again) are Miss Decima and Stephen - the development of their relationship, oscillating in it's social and power dynamics which often create moments of tension but also brief moments of heart-rending resolution.
Montgomery has hit two home runs so far, and I dearly - beg pardon - flipping hope for further installments.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I didn’t actually realise that this was the second book in a series however, you do not have to have read the first book to enjoy “The Shadows of Kensington Gore.” Ross includes just enough information about the main characters backstories as to provide adequate context for an unfamiliar reader but not too much that he recaps the entire first book, which can be really off-putting for some people (including me). In fact, the tidbits he included intrigued me so much, I actually purchased the first book since the story of Stephen and Miss Decima’s beginnings sounded incredibly compelling.
“The Shadows of Kensington Gore” follows the truly odd couple of Miss Decima Stockingham, a brilliant and wheelchair bound octogenarian, and her 20 year old footman/butler/maid/cook/investigative assistant, Stephen Pike as they attempt to solve the murder of a policeman, find three fugitive suffragettes, discover the mysterious threat to the local pigeon populace, and buy a bright red bowler hat.
Ross masterfully crafts an exciting murder-mystery embedded with red-herrings, foreshadowing, witty dialogue, and just enough breadcrumbs that will have you guessing until the very end, when you will promptly slap yourself in the forehead shouting “of course!”
I devoured “The Shadows of Kensington Gore” and I look forward to the next book which - I hope - explores more of the wider conspiracy hinted at in Book 2. With thanks to Netgalley and Penguin/Viking for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and introduce me to the world of Stockingham and Pike.
“The Shadows of Kensington Gore” follows the truly odd couple of Miss Decima Stockingham, a brilliant and wheelchair bound octogenarian, and her 20 year old footman/butler/maid/cook/investigative assistant, Stephen Pike as they attempt to solve the murder of a policeman, find three fugitive suffragettes, discover the mysterious threat to the local pigeon populace, and buy a bright red bowler hat.
Ross masterfully crafts an exciting murder-mystery embedded with red-herrings, foreshadowing, witty dialogue, and just enough breadcrumbs that will have you guessing until the very end, when you will promptly slap yourself in the forehead shouting “of course!”
I devoured “The Shadows of Kensington Gore” and I look forward to the next book which - I hope - explores more of the wider conspiracy hinted at in Book 2. With thanks to Netgalley and Penguin/Viking for providing me with the opportunity to read this ARC and introduce me to the world of Stockingham and Pike.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A little over a year since we left them, foul-mouthed octogenarian Miss Decima Stockingham, and her servant/detective assistant, 20 year old Stephen Pike, are now living in Kensington in London and growing a detective business, although the cases are rather mundane for Miss Decima's liking. But it's June 1911, the King's coronation is days away, and the suffragettes are demonstrating. During one such demonstration, a young policeman is found dead, three suffragettes have been framed, and it's up to Miss Decima and Stephen to exonerate them and find the real perpetrators before Coronation Day, and Emmeline Pankhurt's Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) is outlawed by Parliament.
This is the second instalment in the highly enjoyable Stockingham and Pike series, and I very much hope it won't be the last. I really enjoyed the addition of the female suffrage movement in this book, and the (what appears to be bizarre to a modern readership) opposition they faced. And I enjoyed how Montgomery is able to inject humour into such serious subjects as murder and suffrage. I also really enjoyed the scrapes that Miss Decima, and more frequently at her instruction, Stephen got themselves into and out of. I also enjoyed how, like the previous instalment, the book takes place in a few days, with each day separated by contemporary newspaper articles, posters, and leaflets. This is so much fun, and I'm already recommending it to people I know.
Thank you NetGalley for my advance copy.
This is the second instalment in the highly enjoyable Stockingham and Pike series, and I very much hope it won't be the last. I really enjoyed the addition of the female suffrage movement in this book, and the (what appears to be bizarre to a modern readership) opposition they faced. And I enjoyed how Montgomery is able to inject humour into such serious subjects as murder and suffrage. I also really enjoyed the scrapes that Miss Decima, and more frequently at her instruction, Stephen got themselves into and out of. I also enjoyed how, like the previous instalment, the book takes place in a few days, with each day separated by contemporary newspaper articles, posters, and leaflets. This is so much fun, and I'm already recommending it to people I know.
Thank you NetGalley for my advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Shadows of Kensington Gore by Ross Montgomery to be published 22 Oct 2026
A year after we left them, foul mouthed octogenarian Decima has opened her detective agency with help from her general dogsbody Stephen. However she is rapidly becoming bored with the small local issues she is easily solving and is desperate for a more complicated challenge. Enter the murder of a young policeman who it seems has been murdered by three female suffragettes. But all is not as it seems and Decima and Stephen become embroiled in misdirection, red herrings and numerous other possible suspects.
There is a cast of many including the 28 Ivy's who regularly meet Decima at her home to follow up leads much to Stephen's annoyance, Poor Stephen unfortunately gets into a number of scrapes and comes off the worst but he is managing to hone his detective skills to finally get to the truth and catch the killer.
The plot is clever and keeps you guessing, the dialogue is witty and as usual Decima makes you laugh out loud. it is clear to see the relationship between the two main characters growing closer.
I enjoyed the first outing in Murder at World's End very much and for me it still ranks as the best probably because Decima's character was such a surprise however the second outing isn't far behind and I am looking forward to further outings in the future.
Well done a great read.
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy.
A year after we left them, foul mouthed octogenarian Decima has opened her detective agency with help from her general dogsbody Stephen. However she is rapidly becoming bored with the small local issues she is easily solving and is desperate for a more complicated challenge. Enter the murder of a young policeman who it seems has been murdered by three female suffragettes. But all is not as it seems and Decima and Stephen become embroiled in misdirection, red herrings and numerous other possible suspects.
There is a cast of many including the 28 Ivy's who regularly meet Decima at her home to follow up leads much to Stephen's annoyance, Poor Stephen unfortunately gets into a number of scrapes and comes off the worst but he is managing to hone his detective skills to finally get to the truth and catch the killer.
The plot is clever and keeps you guessing, the dialogue is witty and as usual Decima makes you laugh out loud. it is clear to see the relationship between the two main characters growing closer.
I enjoyed the first outing in Murder at World's End very much and for me it still ranks as the best probably because Decima's character was such a surprise however the second outing isn't far behind and I am looking forward to further outings in the future.
Well done a great read.
Thank you to Netgalley for a pre publication copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ross Montgomery knocks it out of the park once again with the sequel to one of my fave mystery novels from last year.
Stephen and Miss Decima are back but this time they aren't locked away in an isolated manor in Cornwall but in a flat in Kensington amongst the hustle and bustle of London.
It was so refreshing to see these characters in a different environment and a year later after the events of the first book. I, very easily, got swept back up into the world and the hilarious dynamic between Stephen and Miss Decima. This hilarious dynamic is the highlight of the book and I loved seeing their relationship develop more and more.
I found the mystery to be super engaging and entertaining. I was never bored or confused while reading this book. The mystery was structured really well and still managed to catch me out at the last second which secured this book a 5 star rating.
As always I laugh out loud when reading Ross Montgomery's books. From the dialogue and the internal monolgoue of Stephen's mind I found this book to be really fun as well as allowing Stephen to not fall into the bumbling idiot stereotype. Miss Decima was, as always, a force to be reckoned with. I am very intrigued to see where her secret investigations take her especially after reading the epilogue.
Overall, I really enjoyed getting lost in another amazing installment in this series and I am very sad knowing I will have to wait a year or longer to read the next book in this series.
Stephen and Miss Decima are back but this time they aren't locked away in an isolated manor in Cornwall but in a flat in Kensington amongst the hustle and bustle of London.
It was so refreshing to see these characters in a different environment and a year later after the events of the first book. I, very easily, got swept back up into the world and the hilarious dynamic between Stephen and Miss Decima. This hilarious dynamic is the highlight of the book and I loved seeing their relationship develop more and more.
I found the mystery to be super engaging and entertaining. I was never bored or confused while reading this book. The mystery was structured really well and still managed to catch me out at the last second which secured this book a 5 star rating.
As always I laugh out loud when reading Ross Montgomery's books. From the dialogue and the internal monolgoue of Stephen's mind I found this book to be really fun as well as allowing Stephen to not fall into the bumbling idiot stereotype. Miss Decima was, as always, a force to be reckoned with. I am very intrigued to see where her secret investigations take her especially after reading the epilogue.
Overall, I really enjoyed getting lost in another amazing installment in this series and I am very sad knowing I will have to wait a year or longer to read the next book in this series.
Read
July 22, 2026I thoroughly enjoyed Ross Montgomery’s The Murder at World’s End and was so excited to read the next instalment, The Shadows of Kensington Gore.
It’s the second book in the series and follows Miss Decima Stockingham and her man-servant and assistant Stephen Pike, now relocated to Kensington in London. Miss Decima is a celebrated detective using a vast network of lady’s maids, all called Ivy(!), to help solve cases.
Again Montgomery uses a major historical backdrop, in this case the increasing militant activities of the Suffragettes and possible militant threat to the upcoming coronation of George V and Mary in 1911.
In this case, a policeman is found brutally murdered on Kensington and the police are quick to suspect three suffragettes. Right on cue, Miss Decima is called in to investigate.
The story moves along at a pace and Miss Decima and Stephen’s investigations lead them to meet interesting characters. There are some truly laugh out loud moments with Miss Decima’s utter irreverence. Despite her bluntness, you can’t help but like her. It’s definitely on the cosy spectrum of historical murder mysteries.
I can’t wait to read the next instalment in the Stockingham and Pike series.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Penguin General UK,for making this e-ARC available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It’s the second book in the series and follows Miss Decima Stockingham and her man-servant and assistant Stephen Pike, now relocated to Kensington in London. Miss Decima is a celebrated detective using a vast network of lady’s maids, all called Ivy(!), to help solve cases.
Again Montgomery uses a major historical backdrop, in this case the increasing militant activities of the Suffragettes and possible militant threat to the upcoming coronation of George V and Mary in 1911.
In this case, a policeman is found brutally murdered on Kensington and the police are quick to suspect three suffragettes. Right on cue, Miss Decima is called in to investigate.
The story moves along at a pace and Miss Decima and Stephen’s investigations lead them to meet interesting characters. There are some truly laugh out loud moments with Miss Decima’s utter irreverence. Despite her bluntness, you can’t help but like her. It’s definitely on the cosy spectrum of historical murder mysteries.
I can’t wait to read the next instalment in the Stockingham and Pike series.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Penguin General UK,for making this e-ARC available to me in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved The Murder at World’s End, so I was very excited to return to the wonderfully odd partnership of under-butler Stephen Pike and the gloriously formidable Miss Decima Stockingham.
Happily, I can say that The Shadows of Kensington Gore is every bit as clever, funny and satisfying as I’d hoped. It may, just possibly, even be better!
Set in 1911 London, the mystery unfolds against the backdrop of suffragette activity and the Women’s Coronation Procession. When a policeman is murdered outside Miss Decima’s Kensington Gore home, three young women are blamed, and Emmeline Pankhurst enlists the detective duo to find the real killer.
Stephen and Miss Decima have settled beautifully into their detective-agency routine, with their dry humour and growing affection for one another making them a joy to spend time with.
The historical setting was perfect, and the mystery kept me guessing right up until the reveal, at which point I could have kicked myself for missing the clues.
They were all there; I simply wasn’t clever enough to spot them. A thoroughly entertaining five-star read and one of my favorite new series, so fingers crossed Ross Montgomery is already penning book 3!
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Shadows of Kensington Gore by Ross Montgomery in exchange for my honest opinion.
Happily, I can say that The Shadows of Kensington Gore is every bit as clever, funny and satisfying as I’d hoped. It may, just possibly, even be better!
Set in 1911 London, the mystery unfolds against the backdrop of suffragette activity and the Women’s Coronation Procession. When a policeman is murdered outside Miss Decima’s Kensington Gore home, three young women are blamed, and Emmeline Pankhurst enlists the detective duo to find the real killer.
Stephen and Miss Decima have settled beautifully into their detective-agency routine, with their dry humour and growing affection for one another making them a joy to spend time with.
The historical setting was perfect, and the mystery kept me guessing right up until the reveal, at which point I could have kicked myself for missing the clues.
They were all there; I simply wasn’t clever enough to spot them. A thoroughly entertaining five-star read and one of my favorite new series, so fingers crossed Ross Montgomery is already penning book 3!
Thank you to Penguin Random House UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Shadows of Kensington Gore by Ross Montgomery in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you so much to Penguin and NetGalley for the ARC of this book!
Miss Decima and Stephen return in this gripping historical mystery, working to solve a case involving a dead police officer and 3 suffragette suspects.
I adored ‘The Murder at World’s End’ and the second Stockingham & Pike mystery met and even exceeded my enthusiasm and hype off the back of its predecessor, which is no easy feat.
In ‘The Shadows of Kensington Gore’ Montgomery again writes with clarity and momentum, making it easy to get carried away reading ‘just one more chapter.’ The humour and wit makes for a delightful read but doesn’t distract from the clever plotting of the mystery or the seriousness of the women’s suffrage movement.
These characters feel warm and have a lot of heart. I enjoyed watching Stephen & Miss Decima’s dynamic progress, and particularly loved seeing Stephen come in to his own more in this one. I laughed even more in this second book and thought Stephen’s little comments to himself were hilarious.
Within this genre, one of my favourite parts are where all the characters are gathered and someone explains “how it happened” - I was thrilled by this book’s equivalent of that scene! I will be singing my praises for this series to my friends and family, and will keep a keen eye out on any announcements for future instalments!
Miss Decima and Stephen return in this gripping historical mystery, working to solve a case involving a dead police officer and 3 suffragette suspects.
I adored ‘The Murder at World’s End’ and the second Stockingham & Pike mystery met and even exceeded my enthusiasm and hype off the back of its predecessor, which is no easy feat.
In ‘The Shadows of Kensington Gore’ Montgomery again writes with clarity and momentum, making it easy to get carried away reading ‘just one more chapter.’ The humour and wit makes for a delightful read but doesn’t distract from the clever plotting of the mystery or the seriousness of the women’s suffrage movement.
These characters feel warm and have a lot of heart. I enjoyed watching Stephen & Miss Decima’s dynamic progress, and particularly loved seeing Stephen come in to his own more in this one. I laughed even more in this second book and thought Stephen’s little comments to himself were hilarious.
Within this genre, one of my favourite parts are where all the characters are gathered and someone explains “how it happened” - I was thrilled by this book’s equivalent of that scene! I will be singing my praises for this series to my friends and family, and will keep a keen eye out on any announcements for future instalments!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Shadows of Kensington Gore is a thoroughly enjoyable follow-up to The Murder at World’s End. I really enjoyed the first book in the series, so I was equally excited to receive an ARC of this one and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
Set in London in 1911, against the backdrop of Coronation fever and the growing unrest of the female suffrage movement, this is a clever and entertaining murder mystery with plenty of atmosphere. When a policeman is brutally murdered and three women are seen fleeing the scene, Stephen Pike and the wonderfully unconventional Miss Decima Stockingham find themselves drawn into a case that is far from straightforward.
One of the things I particularly enjoyed was the continued development of the characters. Stephen is gaining confidence and really comes into his own in this instalment, while his partnership with Decima makes for a fantastic dynamic duo. Their contrasting personalities and growing rapport are a real highlight.
I also really enjoyed how funny this book is. There’s plenty of wit and humour woven through the story, particularly in the interactions between Stephen and Decima, which made their already entertaining partnership even more enjoyable.
This was a quick, fun read with an intriguing historical setting, a nicely constructed mystery and a cast of wonderfully unique characters. If you enjoy clever murder mysteries, unconventional detectives and historical fiction with plenty of personality, I’d definitely recommend this one.
Thank you to Ross Montgomery, NetGalley and Viking, an imprint of Penguin General UK, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in London in 1911, against the backdrop of Coronation fever and the growing unrest of the female suffrage movement, this is a clever and entertaining murder mystery with plenty of atmosphere. When a policeman is brutally murdered and three women are seen fleeing the scene, Stephen Pike and the wonderfully unconventional Miss Decima Stockingham find themselves drawn into a case that is far from straightforward.
One of the things I particularly enjoyed was the continued development of the characters. Stephen is gaining confidence and really comes into his own in this instalment, while his partnership with Decima makes for a fantastic dynamic duo. Their contrasting personalities and growing rapport are a real highlight.
I also really enjoyed how funny this book is. There’s plenty of wit and humour woven through the story, particularly in the interactions between Stephen and Decima, which made their already entertaining partnership even more enjoyable.
This was a quick, fun read with an intriguing historical setting, a nicely constructed mystery and a cast of wonderfully unique characters. If you enjoy clever murder mysteries, unconventional detectives and historical fiction with plenty of personality, I’d definitely recommend this one.
Thank you to Ross Montgomery, NetGalley and Viking, an imprint of Penguin General UK, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the second book in the Stockingham and Pike mystery series by Ross Montgomery and it was just as great, maybe even better than the first one. I just adore Stephen and Miss Decima. What an unlikely but wonderful pair of investigators and friends they are! Miss Decima is a sassy octogenarian who puts up with nothing she doesn't want to and can out cuss anyone she knows. Stephen is her very young assistant, footman and general helper. They have moved to London and now solve crimes there. They soon have some very complicated murders and mysteries thrown at them and they solve them together with lots of brain work from Miss Decima and mostly dumb luck from Stephen. I loved the complicated mysteries and loved solving it along with them. I also enjoyed the humor in this book. I can't tell you how many times I laughed out loud! The story did involve the very serious topic of the women's suffrage movement in England and I appreciated the author's research and information at the end of the book. Even though it was set in the past, it seemed very on topic for today as women again have their rights threatened and the political world is very unstable. I highly recommend this book and am eagerly awaiting another book in this wonderful series!
Thank you to the publisher, William Morrow and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own .
Thank you to the publisher, William Morrow and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own .
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was invited to review an eArc from NetGalley for a free and unbiased opinion.
I loved the first book that introduced me to the formidable Miss Decima and resourceful Stephen Pike but you really do not have to read the first book to enjoy this one
( although I would recommend reading it as it is good).
This is a murder mystery set in 1911 at the height of the Suffragette movement and it is a twisty, clever murder mystery and I could not figure out ‘who did it’ and ‘why’ which made the revelations so much better. The book still retains the humour of the first book and the relationship between Miss Decima and Stephen drives made me laugh a few times.
But while I enjoyed the underlying mystery and humour , it is the historic background that really hooked in. The Suffragrette movement is a character in its own right and the author brings the struggles of those brave women to life without ignoring some of the negative aspects of the movement including how class and wealth had an impact on how women were treated.
If you do read the book I would recommend following the authors suggestion at the end of the book regarding the Women’s Coronation Procession of 1911.
Content warning
References to sexual assault and domestic violence
I loved the first book that introduced me to the formidable Miss Decima and resourceful Stephen Pike but you really do not have to read the first book to enjoy this one
( although I would recommend reading it as it is good).
This is a murder mystery set in 1911 at the height of the Suffragette movement and it is a twisty, clever murder mystery and I could not figure out ‘who did it’ and ‘why’ which made the revelations so much better. The book still retains the humour of the first book and the relationship between Miss Decima and Stephen drives made me laugh a few times.
But while I enjoyed the underlying mystery and humour , it is the historic background that really hooked in. The Suffragrette movement is a character in its own right and the author brings the struggles of those brave women to life without ignoring some of the negative aspects of the movement including how class and wealth had an impact on how women were treated.
If you do read the book I would recommend following the authors suggestion at the end of the book regarding the Women’s Coronation Procession of 1911.
Content warning
References to sexual assault and domestic violence
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I adored the first book in this series, and I have been eagerly awaiting the sequel ever since. The Shadows of Kensington Gore did not disappoint! Once again, I loved the humor and the dynamic between Stephen and Decima. The plot was complex and I did not figure out any of it. Like all the best mysteries however, you can look back and see all the cleverly planted clues that you missed. As much as I liked the isolated setting of the first book, it was nice to see Stephen and Decima out and about in the world. It was interesting to get some of the suffragette history and have that interwoven into the story as well. I'm a sucker for a locked room mystery, so I'd say that I enjoyed the first book a little more than this one, but it was certainly still a worthy addition to the series. I would definitely suggest reading them in order since this book does spoil the previous one. There is an overarching story that has me very intrigued and I can't wait to see what comes of it. I hope this series continues for a long time! Highly recommended!
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC.
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews