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The Secret Detective Agency #5
The Crossword Murders
A crossword that’s tricky to crack, a hot cup of coffee… and hidden clues? Can Jane Treen work this mystery out?
England, 1942. Jane Treen is hot-footing it to Devon, having received an urgent message from her colleague and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento. He had been deeply worried for his mentor, crossword writer Professor Watkins. And the invitation he’s sent Jane is to the Professor’s funeral… he’s dead.
Arthur suspects foul play, but before they have time to fill in the blanks, their clues lead them into a secret vault nearby. Jane, fluffy ginger cat by her side, begins to connect the dots. But then another man is murdered, and she realises that Professor Watkins’ death is one piece in a much larger and deadlier game.
But who could be behind the untimely deaths? Could the professor’s beloved sister be responsible? Or a wealthy and influential benefactor and her assistant? And someone else close to the professor – also no stranger to compiling a crossword – seems to be increasingly cryptic too.
It’s clear that the killer isn’t playing by the book. And when the clue the professor left in the last crossword he wrote doesn’t help them to solve the crime, Jane and Arthur are back to square one and must think outside the box to crack the code. But just as they start to figure out what’s happening, they find themselves trapped, their lives at stake…
Can the duo solve the puzzle and escape before it’s too late?
If you love twisty crime novels and top-secret intrigue, then you will adore Helena Dixon’s utterly gripping cozy novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright!
England, 1942. Jane Treen is hot-footing it to Devon, having received an urgent message from her colleague and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento. He had been deeply worried for his mentor, crossword writer Professor Watkins. And the invitation he’s sent Jane is to the Professor’s funeral… he’s dead.
Arthur suspects foul play, but before they have time to fill in the blanks, their clues lead them into a secret vault nearby. Jane, fluffy ginger cat by her side, begins to connect the dots. But then another man is murdered, and she realises that Professor Watkins’ death is one piece in a much larger and deadlier game.
But who could be behind the untimely deaths? Could the professor’s beloved sister be responsible? Or a wealthy and influential benefactor and her assistant? And someone else close to the professor – also no stranger to compiling a crossword – seems to be increasingly cryptic too.
It’s clear that the killer isn’t playing by the book. And when the clue the professor left in the last crossword he wrote doesn’t help them to solve the crime, Jane and Arthur are back to square one and must think outside the box to crack the code. But just as they start to figure out what’s happening, they find themselves trapped, their lives at stake…
Can the duo solve the puzzle and escape before it’s too late?
If you love twisty crime novels and top-secret intrigue, then you will adore Helena Dixon’s utterly gripping cozy novel, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright!
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2026
About the author
Helena Dixon
43 books352 followersLibrarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
For other authors of this name, see also:
see: Helena Dixon - Erotica
This author also writes as:
Nell Dixon - Contemporary Womens Fiction
Nell is an multi-award winning author who splits her time between Devon and the Black Country. She lives with her husband, daughters, a tank of tropical fish, and a crazy Cockerpoo called Teddy. She writes contemporary romance as Nell Dixon and historical cozy crime set in 1930's Dartmouth as Helena Dixon. She is represented by the Kate Nash Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The fifth book in the Secret Detective Agency series and it was so good I read it in practically one sitting.
A friend and fellow crossword puzzler has died and Arthur is suspicious that it may be murder. Certain clues are found and Arthur, Jane and Benson find themselves in Devon investigating a storage centre for keeping fine art safe from the effects of the war. Events lead them into danger and there are more deaths.
Jane's mother was back being her usual awful self. However she plays a major role in this story and really shows what she is capable of. It was a complicated plot which was still fun to try and work out. I was sure I knew 'who dunnit' but I was totally wrong. Lots of great characters and second world war facts. The meals were realistic for the time - spam fritters with mashed potatoes and cabbage as a main course and the dessert always being served up with condensed milk as an example. Marmaduke, Jane's cat, stayed at home for most of the book but was delightful when he got the chance.
Altogether an extremely enjoyable book which could be read as a one off but is so much better when you have read all the books in order and know and love the characters. A full five stars from me.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A friend and fellow crossword puzzler has died and Arthur is suspicious that it may be murder. Certain clues are found and Arthur, Jane and Benson find themselves in Devon investigating a storage centre for keeping fine art safe from the effects of the war. Events lead them into danger and there are more deaths.
Jane's mother was back being her usual awful self. However she plays a major role in this story and really shows what she is capable of. It was a complicated plot which was still fun to try and work out. I was sure I knew 'who dunnit' but I was totally wrong. Lots of great characters and second world war facts. The meals were realistic for the time - spam fritters with mashed potatoes and cabbage as a main course and the dessert always being served up with condensed milk as an example. Marmaduke, Jane's cat, stayed at home for most of the book but was delightful when he got the chance.
Altogether an extremely enjoyable book which could be read as a one off but is so much better when you have read all the books in order and know and love the characters. A full five stars from me.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 18, 2026
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Enjoyable
1942, England
Jane Treen rushes to Devon when her colleague and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento, sends her an invitation to his mentor Professor Watkins’s funeral. Arthur has been worried about the crossword writer, and it turns out he was right.
When another murder happens, Jane and Arthur realize there’s a much larger game at play. Someone close to the professor and adept at solving cryptic crosswords seems to be the killer. The sleuthing duo has to start from the beginning and work out the puzzles to unearth the criminal before more people are killed.
The story comes in Jane and Arthur’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
The fifth book in the series can work as a standalone, but might be better if you read at least one of the previous books.
The WWII background stays relevant throughout the book and ties up with the mystery. Though the title and cover focus on crosswords, it actually plays a minor role (an important one, but still minor).
The central aspect is the artefacts and paintings from museums. During the war, the British government took multiple steps to protect these ‘treasures’ (much of it was stolen from indigenous lands, so I can’t feel any empathy here).
The MCs have to figure out if the death happened in connection with this, or if there’s any other reason. Also, who among the group is likely to be the killer? Not a lot of suspects, but enough to wonder who it could be. Most of them are capable of it and can have a motive too.
We meet the FMC’s mom again, but what I liked was the glimpse into the FMC’s past. Definitely makes her feel more human, though she softened from the first book and shows some depth now.
I like how there’s an undercurrent of tension regarding another character and the way it leads to the next book. I hope we finally know a little more about them.
Definitely fewer cigarettes (though the FMC clearly has an addiction problem) this time, so that’s a relief. The cat doesn’t have much role either and stays off the pages. Which is fine since he does nothing anyway.
I always liked the MMC, and the friendship is shaping up well. I like how there’s no rush for anything (won’t suit the characters).
To summarize, The Crossword Murders is an enjoyable read, but expect a wordy or brainy mystery with puzzles and clues. The resolution feels a little easier, too.
Thank you, Sarah, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
One Liner: Enjoyable
1942, England
Jane Treen rushes to Devon when her colleague and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento, sends her an invitation to his mentor Professor Watkins’s funeral. Arthur has been worried about the crossword writer, and it turns out he was right.
When another murder happens, Jane and Arthur realize there’s a much larger game at play. Someone close to the professor and adept at solving cryptic crosswords seems to be the killer. The sleuthing duo has to start from the beginning and work out the puzzles to unearth the criminal before more people are killed.
The story comes in Jane and Arthur’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts
The fifth book in the series can work as a standalone, but might be better if you read at least one of the previous books.
The WWII background stays relevant throughout the book and ties up with the mystery. Though the title and cover focus on crosswords, it actually plays a minor role (an important one, but still minor).
The central aspect is the artefacts and paintings from museums. During the war, the British government took multiple steps to protect these ‘treasures’ (much of it was stolen from indigenous lands, so I can’t feel any empathy here).
The MCs have to figure out if the death happened in connection with this, or if there’s any other reason. Also, who among the group is likely to be the killer? Not a lot of suspects, but enough to wonder who it could be. Most of them are capable of it and can have a motive too.
We meet the FMC’s mom again, but what I liked was the glimpse into the FMC’s past. Definitely makes her feel more human, though she softened from the first book and shows some depth now.
I like how there’s an undercurrent of tension regarding another character and the way it leads to the next book. I hope we finally know a little more about them.
Definitely fewer cigarettes (though the FMC clearly has an addiction problem) this time, so that’s a relief. The cat doesn’t have much role either and stays off the pages. Which is fine since he does nothing anyway.
I always liked the MMC, and the friendship is shaping up well. I like how there’s no rush for anything (won’t suit the characters).
To summarize, The Crossword Murders is an enjoyable read, but expect a wordy or brainy mystery with puzzles and clues. The resolution feels a little easier, too.
Thank you, Sarah, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It was England, 1942, and Jane Treen and her fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento, were together again, this time for the funeral of a dear friend of Arthur's. A heart attack had been diagnosed, but Arthur thought differently. With the approval of the Brigadier, Arthur, his man Benson, and Jane were heading to Devon to discover who murdered Professor Watkins, and who was disturbing the vault of artifacts which were being couriered to Devon for safety from the Nazis.
When clues - cryptic ones at that - were discovered in the Professor's papers, Arthur and Jane set to deciphering them. What they learned meant they were on the right track. But it didn't tell them who. When another man was murdered, also part of the crossword group, as well as the vault workers, they immediately had to put themselves in danger to stop a killer. But could they?
The Crossword Murders is the 5th in The Secret Detective Agency series by Helena Dixon and it was exceptional! The plot was ingenious, the characters great, especially Benson. And it seems Arthur and Jane are becoming fond of one another. And Marmaduke, although we didn't see much of him this episode, is still cutely waiting on the sidelines :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
When clues - cryptic ones at that - were discovered in the Professor's papers, Arthur and Jane set to deciphering them. What they learned meant they were on the right track. But it didn't tell them who. When another man was murdered, also part of the crossword group, as well as the vault workers, they immediately had to put themselves in danger to stop a killer. But could they?
The Crossword Murders is the 5th in The Secret Detective Agency series by Helena Dixon and it was exceptional! The plot was ingenious, the characters great, especially Benson. And it seems Arthur and Jane are becoming fond of one another. And Marmaduke, although we didn't see much of him this episode, is still cutely waiting on the sidelines :) Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
October 13, 2026
Wartime cozy mystery set in 1942 Devon.
Jane Treen receives an urgent message from her colleague Arthur Cilento and she travels to Devon, only to discover that he has summoned her to attend the funeral of his mentor, crossword creator Professor Sanford Watkins, whose death seems far from natural. Jane and Arthur begin investigating Watkins’s demise and uncover coded clues embedded within word puzzles and private journals. The case seems to be centered around happenings inside a secure underground art storage facility where a team of restorers and curators are cataloging and safeguarding the masterpieces to protect from looters, thieves, and bombs. Someone seems to be secretly removing certain pieces and giving them to the enemy. When another member of the community is killed, Jane and Arthur realize they are tracking someone willing to do anything to mask their secret mission.
Charming and cleverly constructed, the setting offers an atmospheric backdrop. The concept of the victim using crossword puzzles to hide clues was interesting. The dynamic between Jane and Arthur provides a solid anchor for the plot as their relationship seems to be changing as they continue to work together. I’m not a fan of all the Marmaduke cat antics but it seems all cozies now have to include a pet of some kind.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review. and recommend. This is another satisfying entry in the Secret Detective Agency series.
Books on Tour blog date 10-19-26
Jane Treen receives an urgent message from her colleague Arthur Cilento and she travels to Devon, only to discover that he has summoned her to attend the funeral of his mentor, crossword creator Professor Sanford Watkins, whose death seems far from natural. Jane and Arthur begin investigating Watkins’s demise and uncover coded clues embedded within word puzzles and private journals. The case seems to be centered around happenings inside a secure underground art storage facility where a team of restorers and curators are cataloging and safeguarding the masterpieces to protect from looters, thieves, and bombs. Someone seems to be secretly removing certain pieces and giving them to the enemy. When another member of the community is killed, Jane and Arthur realize they are tracking someone willing to do anything to mask their secret mission.
Charming and cleverly constructed, the setting offers an atmospheric backdrop. The concept of the victim using crossword puzzles to hide clues was interesting. The dynamic between Jane and Arthur provides a solid anchor for the plot as their relationship seems to be changing as they continue to work together. I’m not a fan of all the Marmaduke cat antics but it seems all cozies now have to include a pet of some kind.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read, review. and recommend. This is another satisfying entry in the Secret Detective Agency series.
Books on Tour blog date 10-19-26
October 16, 2026
England, 1942
History buff that I am, I just had to look up what the status of the war was in England in 1942. Bottom line, precarious. The year was scarred by several major military defeats abroad with a heavy loss of trans-Atlantic shipping. On the other hand, it also marked the beginning of the post Pearl Harbor change in status as U.S. troops were beginning to land on the home front. While I was thoroughly engrossed in the mystery, I also noted that one of the best virtual scenes in the book came toward the end when Jane and Arthur see groups of neatly and warmly dressed children at a train station. My take was they were part of the effort of many parents to remove their children from harm, most likely bombings, by sending them to be cared for by others, not always family, in less prominent areas. Many were also transported overseas, I'll note, many Jewish children smuggled out of occupied countries amongst them. And, thus ends my history lesson. On to the story....
While the storyline, as always, remains strong with an emphasis on the war effort involving Jane and Arthur this go-round, the protection of valuable art objects. I won't go into great detail but it's rather astounding to recognize that the extreme measures described here were probably real, albeit maybe not all in one location. As always, there's a spy/traitor in the midst that results in deaths that Jane and Arthur must sort out asap. Crosswords play a role with cryptic clues hidden within. I won't detail the plot but was delighted to get some insight into the people behind the mission, in this case largely Jane and Arthur's man-servent Benson. To be honest, I didn't much care for Jane when the series began despite finding the stories intriguing, though I've gradually warmed up to her. This go-round we find out more about her past, not to mention get another glimpse of her complicated relationship with her diva star of a mother. The Benson reveal is a quick glimpse at the end that I'm sure will be followed up in the next book. So far, Arthur remains largely a mystery other than that he inherited his home from an uncle if I remember correctly. Surely it'll be turn for a reveal on him soon. In any case, much to my surprise, I've come to like all the characters, well, Jane's office nemesis isn't a favorite but there's probably lots to him we don't know yet, either. As a history buff and reader drawn to characters, this has been a delight of a series.
Bottom line, if you love clever mysteries and history, you'll like this one. The three main characters have become a tight team and have each other's backs, and it's been fun to see them grow as a team and individuals. I mean, Jane is still smoking, yes, but is being more and more aware of avoiding sending smoke in asthmatic Arthur's face as well as slowing her pace to his when walking. Trust me, those are serious improvements in her awareness and behavior towards others. The settings are largely away from prime bombing target London but that only reminds us that the war was by this time truly a world wide war, not to mention how much was going on that the public wasn't aware of. Thanks #Bookouture for originally introducing me to Jane, Arthur, and Benson and the early reads that so satisfy both my love of history and well-written, character driven mysteries. Heck, there's a lot to be learned about the war and history here, too.
History buff that I am, I just had to look up what the status of the war was in England in 1942. Bottom line, precarious. The year was scarred by several major military defeats abroad with a heavy loss of trans-Atlantic shipping. On the other hand, it also marked the beginning of the post Pearl Harbor change in status as U.S. troops were beginning to land on the home front. While I was thoroughly engrossed in the mystery, I also noted that one of the best virtual scenes in the book came toward the end when Jane and Arthur see groups of neatly and warmly dressed children at a train station. My take was they were part of the effort of many parents to remove their children from harm, most likely bombings, by sending them to be cared for by others, not always family, in less prominent areas. Many were also transported overseas, I'll note, many Jewish children smuggled out of occupied countries amongst them. And, thus ends my history lesson. On to the story....
While the storyline, as always, remains strong with an emphasis on the war effort involving Jane and Arthur this go-round, the protection of valuable art objects. I won't go into great detail but it's rather astounding to recognize that the extreme measures described here were probably real, albeit maybe not all in one location. As always, there's a spy/traitor in the midst that results in deaths that Jane and Arthur must sort out asap. Crosswords play a role with cryptic clues hidden within. I won't detail the plot but was delighted to get some insight into the people behind the mission, in this case largely Jane and Arthur's man-servent Benson. To be honest, I didn't much care for Jane when the series began despite finding the stories intriguing, though I've gradually warmed up to her. This go-round we find out more about her past, not to mention get another glimpse of her complicated relationship with her diva star of a mother. The Benson reveal is a quick glimpse at the end that I'm sure will be followed up in the next book. So far, Arthur remains largely a mystery other than that he inherited his home from an uncle if I remember correctly. Surely it'll be turn for a reveal on him soon. In any case, much to my surprise, I've come to like all the characters, well, Jane's office nemesis isn't a favorite but there's probably lots to him we don't know yet, either. As a history buff and reader drawn to characters, this has been a delight of a series.
Bottom line, if you love clever mysteries and history, you'll like this one. The three main characters have become a tight team and have each other's backs, and it's been fun to see them grow as a team and individuals. I mean, Jane is still smoking, yes, but is being more and more aware of avoiding sending smoke in asthmatic Arthur's face as well as slowing her pace to his when walking. Trust me, those are serious improvements in her awareness and behavior towards others. The settings are largely away from prime bombing target London but that only reminds us that the war was by this time truly a world wide war, not to mention how much was going on that the public wasn't aware of. Thanks #Bookouture for originally introducing me to Jane, Arthur, and Benson and the early reads that so satisfy both my love of history and well-written, character driven mysteries. Heck, there's a lot to be learned about the war and history here, too.
October 16, 2026
Favorite Quote:
Everyone was tired. Tired of the war, tired of the blackouts, tired of the bombing raids, tired of rationing.
My Review:
I always enjoy Helena/Nell Dixon’s colorful storytelling and the uniquely quirky yet realistically flawed and knowable characters she conjures. Her perfectly chosen words and well-honed descriptions place me on the scene with the events as they unfurl and smoothly scroll through my gray matter. I could smell Jane’s cigarette smoke but glad I didn’t have to taste the fishpaste, weak tea, and meager rations they were eating on their sandwiches. Blah!
Everyone was tired. Tired of the war, tired of the blackouts, tired of the bombing raids, tired of rationing.
My Review:
I always enjoy Helena/Nell Dixon’s colorful storytelling and the uniquely quirky yet realistically flawed and knowable characters she conjures. Her perfectly chosen words and well-honed descriptions place me on the scene with the events as they unfurl and smoothly scroll through my gray matter. I could smell Jane’s cigarette smoke but glad I didn’t have to taste the fishpaste, weak tea, and meager rations they were eating on their sandwiches. Blah!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's getting harder and harder to review this series because saying much of anything is a spoiler. But when one of Arthur's friends dies under suspicious circumstances, he and Jane are off to see if there's anything to the man's sister's assertion that he had to have been murdered. With a cast of both likeable and unlikeable characters AND some odd things happening, you don't realy know who to trust. This one completely stumped me. I suspected pretty much everyone BUT the culprit. And I was SURE of something else... that didn't happen (and I'm kind of bummed it didn't but since you want to feel like this is realistic, then I'm glad it didn't...
See how good this is? I'm having torn thoughts about whether I want these fake people to be evil for the fun of fake crimes or don't want them to do terrible things because if it was real it would be terrible. Well played, Ms. Dixon.
See how good this is? I'm having torn thoughts about whether I want these fake people to be evil for the fun of fake crimes or don't want them to do terrible things because if it was real it would be terrible. Well played, Ms. Dixon.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In this fifth installment in The Secret Detective Agency series, amateur sleuth Jane Treen is summoned by Crossword Club member and occasional sleuthing partner Arthur Cilento. As it is England, 1942, with World War II raging, the danger of bombing is never far from their minds. Arthur’s mentor, Professor Sanford Watkins, has been killed, and Arthur suspects murder. Having worked together on previous cases, Jane and Arthur join forces to find the killer. Posing as a couple provides them with a cover for their investigation, but with danger lurking around every corner, they know they must proceed with caution.
Jane arrives with her cat, Marmaduke, and after working together on several investigations, Arthur has finally stopped complaining about Jane bringing Marmaduke along! They get to work right away, but when another man is murdered, they begin to wonder whether the killings are connected to the Crossword Club or if the answer lies closer to home. As they question several people, including the professor’s sister, his benefactor, and her assistant, they discover that there is much more to this case than meets the eye.
As Jane and Arthur begin piecing together the clues, they uncover a possible motive involving missing art treasures. Hopefully, the professor’s final crossword puzzle will help them decipher the clues and flush out the murderer. As in previous installments, their investigation puts both Jane and Arthur in danger, as someone is determined to keep the truth from coming to light.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest installment in the series. I love the historical setting, the intriguing mystery, and the way Jane and Arthur work together to unravel the clues. The crossword puzzle adds an interesting element to the investigation, and I enjoyed watching the pieces come together as they got closer to the truth. Marmaduke is also a welcome addition, and I always enjoy seeing him accompany Jane on her adventures. Another entertaining mystery that kept me guessing, and I look forward to seeing what Jane gets herself into next!
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Jane arrives with her cat, Marmaduke, and after working together on several investigations, Arthur has finally stopped complaining about Jane bringing Marmaduke along! They get to work right away, but when another man is murdered, they begin to wonder whether the killings are connected to the Crossword Club or if the answer lies closer to home. As they question several people, including the professor’s sister, his benefactor, and her assistant, they discover that there is much more to this case than meets the eye.
As Jane and Arthur begin piecing together the clues, they uncover a possible motive involving missing art treasures. Hopefully, the professor’s final crossword puzzle will help them decipher the clues and flush out the murderer. As in previous installments, their investigation puts both Jane and Arthur in danger, as someone is determined to keep the truth from coming to light.
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest installment in the series. I love the historical setting, the intriguing mystery, and the way Jane and Arthur work together to unravel the clues. The crossword puzzle adds an interesting element to the investigation, and I enjoyed watching the pieces come together as they got closer to the truth. Marmaduke is also a welcome addition, and I always enjoy seeing him accompany Jane on her adventures. Another entertaining mystery that kept me guessing, and I look forward to seeing what Jane gets herself into next!
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Spring 1942 & Jane Treen is hot-footing it to Devon, having received an urgent message from her colleague and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento. He has invited Jane to Professor Watkin’s funeral. Arthur suspects foul play, as the brilliant crossword compiler sent Arthur cryptic clues. So the duo speak to their boss The Brigadier & he sends them to investigate. They, along with Benson, stay with the Professor’s sister & investigate not only the professor’s death but strange happenings in a storage facility for works of art deep under the Mendip Hills.
The fifth book in the series & I loved it, the pace never lagged, in fact parts were edge of the seat stuff. Interesting characters & a mystery not only surrounding deaths but works of art being moved & then the threat of some being stolen to be taken to Germany. I love Jane & Arthur & enjoy how they work together & how they are becoming closer. I liked that more of Jane’s backstory was revealed. Elsa, Jane’s mother also makes an appearance & gained brownie points for coming to Jane’s aid. I look forward to the next book which had a teaser at the end
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The fifth book in the series & I loved it, the pace never lagged, in fact parts were edge of the seat stuff. Interesting characters & a mystery not only surrounding deaths but works of art being moved & then the threat of some being stolen to be taken to Germany. I love Jane & Arthur & enjoy how they work together & how they are becoming closer. I liked that more of Jane’s backstory was revealed. Elsa, Jane’s mother also makes an appearance & gained brownie points for coming to Jane’s aid. I look forward to the next book which had a teaser at the end
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The background to the book is fascinating - the protection of artworks during WW2. I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of it.
When Jane accompanies Arthur to the funeral of his college mentor, she meets the other members of the professor's club for crossword compilers, who all work in an underground facility handling the rare works of art sent to them to be kept safely (and restored/repaired, where necessary). They discover that Arthur's puzzle is different - and solving that puzzle leads them to the first clue. Items are showing up in the wrong place, and they can't understand why.
Jane, Arthur and his manservant Benson work to discover the truth behind the puzzle, particularly when they discover that what looked like a heart attack was actually a murder. Add in the complication of Jane meeting her late fiance's family, and Jane's own difficult mother (who was very annoying but did redeem herself!), plus some well-placed red herrings, and it was a very enjoyable read.
When Jane accompanies Arthur to the funeral of his college mentor, she meets the other members of the professor's club for crossword compilers, who all work in an underground facility handling the rare works of art sent to them to be kept safely (and restored/repaired, where necessary). They discover that Arthur's puzzle is different - and solving that puzzle leads them to the first clue. Items are showing up in the wrong place, and they can't understand why.
Jane, Arthur and his manservant Benson work to discover the truth behind the puzzle, particularly when they discover that what looked like a heart attack was actually a murder. Add in the complication of Jane meeting her late fiance's family, and Jane's own difficult mother (who was very annoying but did redeem herself!), plus some well-placed red herrings, and it was a very enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I must admit that it grabbed my attention and had me hooked until the end.
Arthur has sought out Jane Treen to assist in finding out what happened to his friend Sanford. His death is ruled a heart attack, but he never showed any symptoms, this raising Arthur's concern.
The twists and turns were fun to unravel and I enjoyed meeting such a colorful group of characters.
Arthur has sought out Jane Treen to assist in finding out what happened to his friend Sanford. His death is ruled a heart attack, but he never showed any symptoms, this raising Arthur's concern.
The twists and turns were fun to unravel and I enjoyed meeting such a colorful group of characters.
November 10, 2026
An entertaining read that is set during possibly the least cosy era - World War 2. And yet somehow, even with the threat of Nazis, bombs, spies et al, it works really well.
This time Jane and Arthur are in Devon. Officially, they are there to attend a funeral of a friend of Arthur's, who suffered a heart attack. Except they both suspect something else is to blame. It isn't long before they are drawn deeper into the mystery and a dangerous attack on Britain's cultural heritage at the height of the war.
This book uses the hidden art stores from WW2 as its setting, one of my favourite pieces of WW2 lore. Thousands of priceless works of art, paintings, statues, relics, and more, were all boxed up from the museums and country estates across the country and hidden in various locations. The most famous is a series of caves in Wales, but here we are in Devon, but the idea is the same.
This isn't just a murder mystery, its a race to protect art. It's also more of a puzzle than usual, as the dead professor was a crossword whizz and has left clues for the pair to find.
It rattles along at a decent pace, there is plenty going on as well as lots of little grounding moments that set this firmly in 1942. You can really get the feel for the War that is happening around them, even if there are moments when the richer characters seem determined to pretend all is well. Carry on regardless, stiff upper lip, the English motto.
I did find the second victim a little under developed - I kept forgetting they were even a character to be honest, there certainly wasn't as much time spent with them as with other people. But the cast as a whole was great, I really enjoyed getting to know them all. I also liked the little dip into Jane's past and how she had to face her own pain, even if only a little. She's never going to let Arthur in (if that is where this series is heading) if she can't handle the pain of her past.
Her mother, Elsa still played a role in this book, but she wasn't in the majority of it and thus I enjoyed it a lot more than the other book in this series I've read.
I somehow managed to miss the most recent one before this, but I was still able to pick it back up and know what was going on, it was a fun read and I'm looking forward to learning what happens next.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
This time Jane and Arthur are in Devon. Officially, they are there to attend a funeral of a friend of Arthur's, who suffered a heart attack. Except they both suspect something else is to blame. It isn't long before they are drawn deeper into the mystery and a dangerous attack on Britain's cultural heritage at the height of the war.
This book uses the hidden art stores from WW2 as its setting, one of my favourite pieces of WW2 lore. Thousands of priceless works of art, paintings, statues, relics, and more, were all boxed up from the museums and country estates across the country and hidden in various locations. The most famous is a series of caves in Wales, but here we are in Devon, but the idea is the same.
This isn't just a murder mystery, its a race to protect art. It's also more of a puzzle than usual, as the dead professor was a crossword whizz and has left clues for the pair to find.
It rattles along at a decent pace, there is plenty going on as well as lots of little grounding moments that set this firmly in 1942. You can really get the feel for the War that is happening around them, even if there are moments when the richer characters seem determined to pretend all is well. Carry on regardless, stiff upper lip, the English motto.
I did find the second victim a little under developed - I kept forgetting they were even a character to be honest, there certainly wasn't as much time spent with them as with other people. But the cast as a whole was great, I really enjoyed getting to know them all. I also liked the little dip into Jane's past and how she had to face her own pain, even if only a little. She's never going to let Arthur in (if that is where this series is heading) if she can't handle the pain of her past.
Her mother, Elsa still played a role in this book, but she wasn't in the majority of it and thus I enjoyed it a lot more than the other book in this series I've read.
I somehow managed to miss the most recent one before this, but I was still able to pick it back up and know what was going on, it was a fun read and I'm looking forward to learning what happens next.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
** “The battles for victory in this war were not merely the ones being waged on the battlefields. The biggest battle was for the hearts and minds of the population. Keeping up morale and uniting communities against the common enemy was vital if they were to emerge victorious.” **
Helena Dixon continues her fun and plucky “Secret Detective Agency” series with “The Crossword Murders,” a story dealing with the plot to protect artwork during World War II.
Jane Treen, Arthur Cilantro and his manservant Benson continue to work for the Whitehall War Office’s secret detective agency, solving crimes important to national security. Arthur receives a secret coded crossword message from his friend Sanford Watkins, who works in a secret storage facility protecting important and valuable artwork. After Sanford ends up dead, the trio know they must look into his death.
As more and more intriguing and puzzling events begin to occur, Jane and Arthur know they are on the right track. Can they figure out who is behind the nefarious attacks before they strike again? And can they have a hand in saving the nation’s and world’s most prized art?
What follows is a mysterious plot filled with twists and turns, as well as some quirky characters, like the asthmatic Arthur, the chain-smoking Jane, a die-hard manservant, an obnoxious famous mother, and a one-eyed ginger cat. And as usual, the author leaves the reader guessing until the very end as to the case’s solution. She also ends the story with a hint at a future novel, which is fabulous news.
Fans of books like T.A. Willberg’s “Marion Lane” and Julie Kelly’s “Evelyne Redfern” series, as well as authors like Rachel McMillan, Kate Quinn and J’nell Ciesielski, will love “The Crossword Murders,” which is due out Oct. 15.
Five stars out of five.
Bookouture provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Helena Dixon continues her fun and plucky “Secret Detective Agency” series with “The Crossword Murders,” a story dealing with the plot to protect artwork during World War II.
Jane Treen, Arthur Cilantro and his manservant Benson continue to work for the Whitehall War Office’s secret detective agency, solving crimes important to national security. Arthur receives a secret coded crossword message from his friend Sanford Watkins, who works in a secret storage facility protecting important and valuable artwork. After Sanford ends up dead, the trio know they must look into his death.
As more and more intriguing and puzzling events begin to occur, Jane and Arthur know they are on the right track. Can they figure out who is behind the nefarious attacks before they strike again? And can they have a hand in saving the nation’s and world’s most prized art?
What follows is a mysterious plot filled with twists and turns, as well as some quirky characters, like the asthmatic Arthur, the chain-smoking Jane, a die-hard manservant, an obnoxious famous mother, and a one-eyed ginger cat. And as usual, the author leaves the reader guessing until the very end as to the case’s solution. She also ends the story with a hint at a future novel, which is fabulous news.
Fans of books like T.A. Willberg’s “Marion Lane” and Julie Kelly’s “Evelyne Redfern” series, as well as authors like Rachel McMillan, Kate Quinn and J’nell Ciesielski, will love “The Crossword Murders,” which is due out Oct. 15.
Five stars out of five.
Bookouture provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
October 9, 2026
Getting another book in a series that you love is like your birthday and Christmas all in one. I was thrilled when I heard that the fifth installment of Helena Dixon's The Secret Detective Agency series was coming out and couldn't wait to read it.
The Crossword Murders opens with Miss Jane Treen accompanying Arthur Cilento as he attends the funeral of his college mentor. Also gathered are the other members of the professor’s Crossword Compilers' Club. Arthur invited Jane to come along after he received a "strange and cryptic new puzzle" from the professor a day before he died. They discover that Arthur’s puzzle is different from the ones sent to the other club members.
Much of the action of the book centers around the work being done to protect great works of art during World War II. Churchill himself wanted the masterpieces out of harm’s way and where the Nazis couldn’t lay their hands on them. We learn that all of the other members of the crossword club all work in an underground facility where they inventory (and restore or repair if necessary) the many paintings, sculptures, and more that are sent to them. They even have the Wright Brothers Kitty Hawk airplane. But items are showing up in the wrong place and they can't figure out why.
The team of Jane, Arthur, and Benson work so well together once again, each with their own unique expertise. The puzzle metaphor is incredibly apt since solving a murder is also a puzzle. I had no idea who the murderer was until right before the reveal. Just when I thought it was one person, that person ends up being the murderer's next victim.
The Crossword Murders ticks all of the boxes for me: a great mystery and lots of historical information about an intriguing part of the homefront effort in Great Britain. Now I'm off to count the days until the next book in the series!
5 lattes out of 5
Disclaimer: This eARC was provided by Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Crossword Murders opens with Miss Jane Treen accompanying Arthur Cilento as he attends the funeral of his college mentor. Also gathered are the other members of the professor’s Crossword Compilers' Club. Arthur invited Jane to come along after he received a "strange and cryptic new puzzle" from the professor a day before he died. They discover that Arthur’s puzzle is different from the ones sent to the other club members.
Much of the action of the book centers around the work being done to protect great works of art during World War II. Churchill himself wanted the masterpieces out of harm’s way and where the Nazis couldn’t lay their hands on them. We learn that all of the other members of the crossword club all work in an underground facility where they inventory (and restore or repair if necessary) the many paintings, sculptures, and more that are sent to them. They even have the Wright Brothers Kitty Hawk airplane. But items are showing up in the wrong place and they can't figure out why.
The team of Jane, Arthur, and Benson work so well together once again, each with their own unique expertise. The puzzle metaphor is incredibly apt since solving a murder is also a puzzle. I had no idea who the murderer was until right before the reveal. Just when I thought it was one person, that person ends up being the murderer's next victim.
The Crossword Murders ticks all of the boxes for me: a great mystery and lots of historical information about an intriguing part of the homefront effort in Great Britain. Now I'm off to count the days until the next book in the series!
5 lattes out of 5
Disclaimer: This eARC was provided by Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own.
Early spring, 1942 finds June Treen and her colleague Arthur Cilento in Devon to attend the funeral of one of Arthur's closest friends from his university days, with neither of them convinced his death was from natural causes. Professor Sanford Watkins was a prolific crossword puzzle compiler and aficionado who also worked at a top secret facility used for storing the nation's art collections while the war rages on. Tasked with finding out what’s going on Jane, Arthur, and the third member of the Secret Detective Agency, Arthur's manservant Benson, soon find out things aren't at all what they seem. Added to their problems, Jane's mother is in the area for a fund raising concert wth guests attending who, unknowingly, are a huge part of Jane's past, and Benson is uncharacteristically keeping secrets, meaning they have a lot on their plates! Can they push forward with their investigation or will their attention be distracted at the crucial moment?
Book five in Helena Dixon's second successful series takes the investigating trio to a small Devon village where a group of crossword creators are working in a secret underground vault packed with valuable national treasures. The attention to detail is as comprehensive as you would expect from this author but also meant it got a little complicated and slow in places. This isn't a fast paced mystery and I did find my attention faltering at times. There is a hint as to their next investigation which I will definitely be on the lookout for. 3.5 rounded up to 4*
Early spring, 1942 finds June Treen and her colleague Arthur Cilento in Devon to attend the funeral of one of Arthur's closest friends from his university days, with neither of them convinced his death was from natural causes. Professor Sanford Watkins was a prolific crossword puzzle compiler and aficionado who also worked at a top secret facility used for storing the nation's art collections while the war rages on. Tasked with finding out what’s going on Jane, Arthur, and the third member of the Secret Detective Agency, Arthur's manservant Benson, soon find out things aren't at all what they seem. Added to their problems, Jane's mother is in the area for a fund raising concert wth guests attending who, unknowingly, are a huge part of Jane's past, and Benson is uncharacteristically keeping secrets, meaning they have a lot on their plates! Can they push forward with their investigation or will their attention be distracted at the crucial moment?
Book five in Helena Dixon's second successful series takes the investigating trio to a small Devon village where a group of crossword creators are working in a secret underground vault packed with valuable national treasures. The attention to detail is as comprehensive as you would expect from this author but also meant it got a little complicated and slow in places. This isn't a fast paced mystery and I did find my attention faltering at times. There is a hint as to their next investigation which I will definitely be on the lookout for. 3.5 rounded up to 4*
October 8, 2026
I received an ARC of from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Well Miss Dixon has done it again. I've been reading my way through this series and I love it. I am a big fan of mysteries - not usually historical ones but Dixon makes them so gripping and enticing I struggle to put them down.
These books are truly escapist in the best way, with loveable characters, loatheable villains, plots, sub plots, and of course Marmaduke. I love Marmaduke... he may be my fave character of the series. This book sees us follow crytpic clues in the forms of crosswords through to an art store somewhere in the countryside, with a new cast of characters, the unravelling of part of Jane's past, the return of Jane's mother and an interesting side plot with Benson.
I'm really enjoying the development of Arthur and Jane from the first book till now - I really hope this development continues in the next one too, as it's so lovely watching them grow to rely on each other after everything they've been through. Talking of the next book I love the little tease at the end, I'm so ready for another installment of Dixon's incredible murder mysteries.
Did I get the villain right? Did I heck. Usually I can take a decent guess but this one had me guessing right up until the reveal though certain aspects of the plot hinted towards it - if only I had been paying more attention! I just adore this series to be honest, I devour all the books and even when I can't read daily, I will always come back to these books!
Well Miss Dixon has done it again. I've been reading my way through this series and I love it. I am a big fan of mysteries - not usually historical ones but Dixon makes them so gripping and enticing I struggle to put them down.
These books are truly escapist in the best way, with loveable characters, loatheable villains, plots, sub plots, and of course Marmaduke. I love Marmaduke... he may be my fave character of the series. This book sees us follow crytpic clues in the forms of crosswords through to an art store somewhere in the countryside, with a new cast of characters, the unravelling of part of Jane's past, the return of Jane's mother and an interesting side plot with Benson.
I'm really enjoying the development of Arthur and Jane from the first book till now - I really hope this development continues in the next one too, as it's so lovely watching them grow to rely on each other after everything they've been through. Talking of the next book I love the little tease at the end, I'm so ready for another installment of Dixon's incredible murder mysteries.
Did I get the villain right? Did I heck. Usually I can take a decent guess but this one had me guessing right up until the reveal though certain aspects of the plot hinted towards it - if only I had been paying more attention! I just adore this series to be honest, I devour all the books and even when I can't read daily, I will always come back to these books!
October 22, 2026
Five reasons I'm giving five stars to: The Crossword Murders by Helena Dixon
1. The time and place - We are in 1942 Britain, at the height of WWII, with blackouts and rationing and and the constant threat of enemy invasion. In this book we are in a small village in Devon, away from the constant air raids, but the atmosphere of war is very much present.
2. The protagonist - Miss Jane Treen is an administrator for Whitehall, working for a highly classified intelligence department. She is fueled by coffee, cigarettes and a sense of duty; a tweed-wearing spinster with a cat; a talented pianist; a no-nonsense believer in good manners, and a complete darling.
3. The helpers - Arthur Cilento is a quiet and reserved man and a brilliant mathematical code-breaker. He is hilariously challenged by Jane's cigarettes, cat and robust way of doing things. The essential third member of the team is Benson, Arthur's manservant, incapable apparently of putting a foot wrong.
4. The plot - When Jane and Arthur travel to Devon for the funeral of Arthur’s mentor they soon find themselves tackling a complex mystery of murder, secret vaults, crossword clues and art treasures. There is also a lot of tea and some fish paste sandwiches.
5. The series - This is the fifth book in one of my favorite series. I like the authentic feeling of the wartime setting, I like the interesting plots that mix mystery, espionage and a hint of danger, but most of all I like the three wonderful main characters and their heartwarming dynamics.
1. The time and place - We are in 1942 Britain, at the height of WWII, with blackouts and rationing and and the constant threat of enemy invasion. In this book we are in a small village in Devon, away from the constant air raids, but the atmosphere of war is very much present.
2. The protagonist - Miss Jane Treen is an administrator for Whitehall, working for a highly classified intelligence department. She is fueled by coffee, cigarettes and a sense of duty; a tweed-wearing spinster with a cat; a talented pianist; a no-nonsense believer in good manners, and a complete darling.
3. The helpers - Arthur Cilento is a quiet and reserved man and a brilliant mathematical code-breaker. He is hilariously challenged by Jane's cigarettes, cat and robust way of doing things. The essential third member of the team is Benson, Arthur's manservant, incapable apparently of putting a foot wrong.
4. The plot - When Jane and Arthur travel to Devon for the funeral of Arthur’s mentor they soon find themselves tackling a complex mystery of murder, secret vaults, crossword clues and art treasures. There is also a lot of tea and some fish paste sandwiches.
5. The series - This is the fifth book in one of my favorite series. I like the authentic feeling of the wartime setting, I like the interesting plots that mix mystery, espionage and a hint of danger, but most of all I like the three wonderful main characters and their heartwarming dynamics.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have received a review copy of the book and I'm posting my review voluntarily.
The story starts with the murder of Senford, one of a group entrusted with the responsibility to preserve rare paintings and artefacts in UK, in light of the World War. Needless to say, it becomes a high-profile case because the artefacts Senford was dealing were worth a murder. Jane Treen, our lead character and her mate Arthur, who also is a friend of Senford, are looking into the case. They go to the town where he lived, Westwood, and interact with various characters like his family and colleagues, who were all also trying to protect and preserve these artefacts - except the killer, of course.
The book starts extremely slow, rather like a cozy murder mystery. It is a slow-burn which I read over multiple days, and is not an edge-of-the-seat for sure. The book got interesting only after the halfway point.
Overall the plot is good, and well-planned. But it is only good, not beyond that. The author could have given more hints or clues about the characters so that we would keep guessing who did it.
The language is definitely a bit different from colloquial because the book is set a century ago. Nevertheless I would say beginners can give it a try. The vocabulary is quite easy.
Read it - you are looking for a cozy English small-town murder mystery
Skip if - you want a fastpac book that keeps you up all night.
The story starts with the murder of Senford, one of a group entrusted with the responsibility to preserve rare paintings and artefacts in UK, in light of the World War. Needless to say, it becomes a high-profile case because the artefacts Senford was dealing were worth a murder. Jane Treen, our lead character and her mate Arthur, who also is a friend of Senford, are looking into the case. They go to the town where he lived, Westwood, and interact with various characters like his family and colleagues, who were all also trying to protect and preserve these artefacts - except the killer, of course.
The book starts extremely slow, rather like a cozy murder mystery. It is a slow-burn which I read over multiple days, and is not an edge-of-the-seat for sure. The book got interesting only after the halfway point.
Overall the plot is good, and well-planned. But it is only good, not beyond that. The author could have given more hints or clues about the characters so that we would keep guessing who did it.
The language is definitely a bit different from colloquial because the book is set a century ago. Nevertheless I would say beginners can give it a try. The vocabulary is quite easy.
Read it - you are looking for a cozy English small-town murder mystery
Skip if - you want a fastpac book that keeps you up all night.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The indomitable Jane is back solving another wartime mystery!
Jane, Arthur and Benson (and Marmaduke the cat) are back for another wartime murder mystery to solve. Add in a dash of espionage, treason and a society of crossword compilers and it's guaranteed to keep you interested.
When a mentor of Arthur's dies in Devon, he knows it wasn't a straightforward death. Something hinky is afoot and he has just the team to solve it. With a mixed bag of puzzle compilers there's more than one suspect. The murder mystery dovetails with a "heist" from a fictionalised version of Churchill's Warehouses, used in an attempt to save great works of art from the ravages of war.
A cosy, warm hug of nostalgia, mind games and devilish, daring do. The crossword puzzles were a great way to impart wisdom to the worthy. Jane and Arthur are the ultimate depiction of the slow burn romance, lol. Benson is still the most underestimated member of the team. I'm not a huge cat fan, so I think Marmaduke needs to get some competition in the shape of a dog! Arthur and Benson could do with their own 4 legged companion, if Arthur's health can tolerate one.
**I received an arc via the publisher - Bookouture. This is my voluntary review**
Jane, Arthur and Benson (and Marmaduke the cat) are back for another wartime murder mystery to solve. Add in a dash of espionage, treason and a society of crossword compilers and it's guaranteed to keep you interested.
When a mentor of Arthur's dies in Devon, he knows it wasn't a straightforward death. Something hinky is afoot and he has just the team to solve it. With a mixed bag of puzzle compilers there's more than one suspect. The murder mystery dovetails with a "heist" from a fictionalised version of Churchill's Warehouses, used in an attempt to save great works of art from the ravages of war.
A cosy, warm hug of nostalgia, mind games and devilish, daring do. The crossword puzzles were a great way to impart wisdom to the worthy. Jane and Arthur are the ultimate depiction of the slow burn romance, lol. Benson is still the most underestimated member of the team. I'm not a huge cat fan, so I think Marmaduke needs to get some competition in the shape of a dog! Arthur and Benson could do with their own 4 legged companion, if Arthur's health can tolerate one.
**I received an arc via the publisher - Bookouture. This is my voluntary review**
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rounded up to 3.5 stars for the clever clues and puzzles (which I would have liked to have seen more of).
This is the first book that I've read in this series. Perhaps the previous books are a bit more thrilling but I found this one had a slow pace and not as much of a sense of danger as I had expected.
Set during WWII, much of the first part of the book is detailing how and where precious and important art, antiquities and various other important items are held in secret during the war in order to keep them out of the hands of the enemy.
The mid portion of the book is a lot of socializing with a little intrigue sprinkled here and there but not enough, in my opinion.
The main character, Jane Treen is not very likeable. Arthur is a better character and seems to be the one with all the skills. Again, I liked the clues and puzzle solving. This is a nice addition to the story but not quite enough to make this a four star read.
The killer reveal isn't especially satisfying. I wish I had liked it better-I felt like it had potential.
I'd like to thank the publisher for providing this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book that I've read in this series. Perhaps the previous books are a bit more thrilling but I found this one had a slow pace and not as much of a sense of danger as I had expected.
Set during WWII, much of the first part of the book is detailing how and where precious and important art, antiquities and various other important items are held in secret during the war in order to keep them out of the hands of the enemy.
The mid portion of the book is a lot of socializing with a little intrigue sprinkled here and there but not enough, in my opinion.
The main character, Jane Treen is not very likeable. Arthur is a better character and seems to be the one with all the skills. Again, I liked the clues and puzzle solving. This is a nice addition to the story but not quite enough to make this a four star read.
The killer reveal isn't especially satisfying. I wish I had liked it better-I felt like it had potential.
I'd like to thank the publisher for providing this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When a friend of Arthur's dies unexpectedly, he brings Jane to the funeral as his "girlfriend" so they can meet with his widow and learn more about what happened to him. Arthur had received cryptic clues and believed there was more for him to find. The widow is also skeptical about his death, as he was found in an underground cave where precious paintings, sculptures, and artifacts are being hidden from the Nazi's during WWII, but he had no heart condition. Arthur, Jane & Benson are then able to return to visit and act undercover to determine whether he was murdered and if it was tied to a possible theft of artifacts. Several backstories tie together with the arrival of Jane's mother and the parents of her secret dead fiancé. Benson also seems to be keeping secrets to himself, and Jane and Arthur worry about what they might be.
It was interesting to learn about how England worked to preserve important items from bombings and theft during WWII. I am thankful to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
It was interesting to learn about how England worked to preserve important items from bombings and theft during WWII. I am thankful to Netgalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the latest book which is part of a fabulous cozy crime series, set during the war and would appeal to those who like this genre as it is well written with great characterisation and a superb plot.
In this book Jane Treen and her detective partner Arthur Clithero are dispatched by the government to investigate another crime. This time they have already discovered that a friend has been murdered who has left behind clues for them to follow.
The writing is hugely entertaining and the setting is completely appropriate for the era, vividly describing the way of life and constraints of the war.
As characters Jane and Arthur have become increasingly more realistic and rounded since book one in the series. They work together well and their relationship is definitely becoming more complex and interesting.
Although this is the latest in a series, and I would definitely read the earlier books, this can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
In this book Jane Treen and her detective partner Arthur Clithero are dispatched by the government to investigate another crime. This time they have already discovered that a friend has been murdered who has left behind clues for them to follow.
The writing is hugely entertaining and the setting is completely appropriate for the era, vividly describing the way of life and constraints of the war.
As characters Jane and Arthur have become increasingly more realistic and rounded since book one in the series. They work together well and their relationship is definitely becoming more complex and interesting.
Although this is the latest in a series, and I would definitely read the earlier books, this can be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2026
It’s 1942, and while watching out for bombing raids, many upper class British citizens are involved in the effort to preserve priceless artifacts from war damage. One is Professor Watkins, a friend of Arthur’s and a fellow member of an elite group of crossword puzzle creators. When the professor dies in an underground art storage area, it’s deemed an heart attack, but when Arthur and Jane attend the funeral, Watkins’ sister shows them evidence there may have been foul play. Since the national security office in Whitehall had been aware of issues in the art restoration project, Jane is given permission to investigate, and Arthur is installed as the professor’s replacement. They encounter an interesting mix of personalities, and Jane is confronted with a reminder of a very painful time in her past. This book definitely kept me listening! I can’t wait to hear what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’ve been enjoying Helena Dixon’s books for years now, so I was thrilled to get my copy of The Crossword Murders.
This time, Jane and Arthur are sent to check security at a storage facility for artworks.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. By now, Jane, Arthur, and Benson are old friends. It was interesting to get a little insight into Jane’s history in this story.
The mystery was an intriguing one. It was difficult to get any idea of who might be responsible. I certainly hadn’t figured it out before the big reveal.
Overall, this was an excellent addition to the series. I can’t wait to see what Jane, Arthur, and Benson get up to next.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
This time, Jane and Arthur are sent to check security at a storage facility for artworks.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. By now, Jane, Arthur, and Benson are old friends. It was interesting to get a little insight into Jane’s history in this story.
The mystery was an intriguing one. It was difficult to get any idea of who might be responsible. I certainly hadn’t figured it out before the big reveal.
Overall, this was an excellent addition to the series. I can’t wait to see what Jane, Arthur, and Benson get up to next.
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
October 20, 2026
Getting to know you …
Things are starting to mesh with Brigadier Remington-Blythe’s little force and we find out a good deal more about each of them. We even glimpse a better side of Stephen. The many bits of detail throughout let us into the deprivations and complexities the war-time civilian faced and in which our team must operate. An excellent mystery shedding light upon real and little known aspects of “the War,” simple nomenclature for that which affected every breath of every day for most every Brit. The author mentions that some elements are inferred or imagined as Britain (unlike the US) seems to understand that some secrets should remain so.
Things are starting to mesh with Brigadier Remington-Blythe’s little force and we find out a good deal more about each of them. We even glimpse a better side of Stephen. The many bits of detail throughout let us into the deprivations and complexities the war-time civilian faced and in which our team must operate. An excellent mystery shedding light upon real and little known aspects of “the War,” simple nomenclature for that which affected every breath of every day for most every Brit. The author mentions that some elements are inferred or imagined as Britain (unlike the US) seems to understand that some secrets should remain so.
November 4, 2026
I LOVE this series. Its BRILLIANT. Book five is a great addition.
Set during WW2. Miss Jane Treen, Arthur Cilento and Benson once again work together to untangle the clues (puzzle things out) and once again identify the traitors. This time the backdrop is protecting priceless works of art; protecting them from destruction or theft. The segue to the singing/concert performance featuring Jane's famous mom was a goodie.The way that the context of living in wartime England is decribed and the challenges it brings are insightful. Well Done!!
It was five out of five on the enjoyment scale
My thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for my copy. The opinions are my own
Set during WW2. Miss Jane Treen, Arthur Cilento and Benson once again work together to untangle the clues (puzzle things out) and once again identify the traitors. This time the backdrop is protecting priceless works of art; protecting them from destruction or theft. The segue to the singing/concert performance featuring Jane's famous mom was a goodie.The way that the context of living in wartime England is decribed and the challenges it brings are insightful. Well Done!!
It was five out of five on the enjoyment scale
My thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and the author for my copy. The opinions are my own
November 9, 2026
What great fun! Even though they were on a serious mission, it was interesting to see how the relationships are developing over time and everyone learns a bit more about each person's back story. As to the final scene with Jane's mom once again standing there with gun drawn, I wonder if she isn't more like her daughter than we expect. Could she be on her own information gathering mission, but for the USA?
So glad there is reason to look forward for another book in this wonderful series, this time with a possible focus on the enigma known as Benson. Meanwhile, could someone please tell the talented cover artist that the cat only has one eye?
So glad there is reason to look forward for another book in this wonderful series, this time with a possible focus on the enigma known as Benson. Meanwhile, could someone please tell the talented cover artist that the cat only has one eye?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
England, 1942. Jane Treen and fellow sleuth, Arthur Cilento have a new assignment. Arthur has been worried for fellow crossword writer Professor Watkins, and an employee at one of the country's storage of artworks. But now he has sent an invitation to Jane for the Professor’s funeral. Soon they are informed of a plot to steal a painting but who among the workers is involved in treason.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
October 31, 2026
Another enjoyable entry in the series. By book five, the real strength is the characters—I particularly enjoy Benson—and the relationships between the team keep me coming back.
The wartime setting, crossword clues and locked-room style mystery make for a fun read, even if the plot felt a little familiar at times. The pacing is good, the cosy atmosphere is appealing, and there's enough intrigue to keep the pages turning.
Not the strongest mystery in the series, but still an entertaining and comfortable read with characters I enjoy spending time with.
The wartime setting, crossword clues and locked-room style mystery make for a fun read, even if the plot felt a little familiar at times. The pacing is good, the cosy atmosphere is appealing, and there's enough intrigue to keep the pages turning.
Not the strongest mystery in the series, but still an entertaining and comfortable read with characters I enjoy spending time with.
September 23, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the publisher; all opinions are my own. The Crossword Murders was a fun read featuring Jane, Aurthur, and Benson. When Authur receives a crossword puzzle from his friend sent short before his death, he quickly realizes that there is a special message hidden there leading him to believe his old friend, Sanford, was murder and didn't die from natural causes. Sanford's sister also believes that his death wasn't natural and asks Arthur (and Jane) to look into it. Jane arranges to be sent to audit the program Sanford, his sister, and other members of the crossword club that Arthur and Sanford were a part of. Hidden in a cave deep underground, the program is one of several sites that key pieces of art are being sent to be stored safely for the duration of the war not only for preservation, but to ensure the Nazi's can't get their hands on any of it and use the capture as propaganda. It quickly becomes clear that something isn't right within the program, and everyone involved is a suspect. In addition to the nice mystery, I appreciated learning about the efforts to save various important pieces of art from Nazis and destruction as it isn't something I was very familiar with during WWII other than the movie Monuments Men which was focused on the European Continent and not Britain. I'm really enjoying watching the potential relationship between Jane and Arthur develop while their working partnership grows stronger. This book was a little different from previous ones as it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger and gave a hint into the next book in the series.
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