What do you think?
The Harlot of St. Cecelia's
"This novel consistently delights, from the spicy title to the last page." – Kirkus Reviews
England, 1923. The war is over but not forgotten, and in the cloistered corridors of a university town just outside London, life has resumed its careful performance of normality, with faculty politics, reading circles, and theatre productions.
Into this world comes Eden Brior: an American librarian, sharp-eyed and perpetually out of step, who came to England looking for her lost brother but has made her quiet life among the stacks of St. Cecelia's.
A trying evening becomes considerably worse when she and the charming, impossible Simon Cross are accidentally locked in the bookvault, and a French actress turns up dead in the nave upstairs.
Eden is a witness. She may also be a suspect. And Inspector William Garrett, who has seen everything, has not quite seen anything like her.
Witty, vivid, and steeped in the textures of postwar English life, The Harlot of St. Cecelia's is a mystery that earns its place on your shelf through character: the people who loved the victim, the ones who didn't, and the ones who aren't quite sure.
A cozy mystery in the tradition of Dorothy Sayers, Jacqueline Winspear and Kerry Greenwood, this book is for readers who like: historical mysteries, intrepid heroines, morally grey charmers, and the golden age of detective fiction.
The first novel in the Garrett Mystery series.
"An excellent 1920s-set whodunit with not a (cropped) hair out of place." – Kirkus Reviews
England, 1923. The war is over but not forgotten, and in the cloistered corridors of a university town just outside London, life has resumed its careful performance of normality, with faculty politics, reading circles, and theatre productions.
Into this world comes Eden Brior: an American librarian, sharp-eyed and perpetually out of step, who came to England looking for her lost brother but has made her quiet life among the stacks of St. Cecelia's.
A trying evening becomes considerably worse when she and the charming, impossible Simon Cross are accidentally locked in the bookvault, and a French actress turns up dead in the nave upstairs.
Eden is a witness. She may also be a suspect. And Inspector William Garrett, who has seen everything, has not quite seen anything like her.
Witty, vivid, and steeped in the textures of postwar English life, The Harlot of St. Cecelia's is a mystery that earns its place on your shelf through character: the people who loved the victim, the ones who didn't, and the ones who aren't quite sure.
A cozy mystery in the tradition of Dorothy Sayers, Jacqueline Winspear and Kerry Greenwood, this book is for readers who like: historical mysteries, intrepid heroines, morally grey charmers, and the golden age of detective fiction.
The first novel in the Garrett Mystery series.
"An excellent 1920s-set whodunit with not a (cropped) hair out of place." – Kirkus Reviews
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2026
About the author
Darcy Graves
1 book21 followersDarcy Graves grew up in Boston and holds an MA in English history and a BS in copywriting. A marketing content writer for over thirty years, she brings to her work a deep love of the golden age of detective fiction — particularly Agatha Christie and P.D. James — and the whimsy of P.G. Wodehouse.
Darcy lives in the Berkshires with her daughter, two ragdoll cats, and a very naughty terrier named Merial.
Darcy lives in the Berkshires with her daughter, two ragdoll cats, and a very naughty terrier named Merial.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 9, 2026
Synopsis (from the back of the book): London, 1923. American expat librarian Eden Brior thinks things are bad when she is accidentally locked overnight in the St. Cecelia's Library vault with the charming and unreliable playboy Simon Cross. Then she emerges to find the body of his estranged wife, a French actress, draped over a chair upstairs.
Detective Inspector William Garrett is quiet, perceptive, and fairly certain he already has his man. He tells Eden to go home, read a book, and leave the detecting to the professionals But how can she?
Racing to clear their names before Garrett closes the case, Eden follows the truth from the bright footlights of the London stage through the sleek drawing rooms of Jazz Age society, and secrets that someone will kill to keep buried.
Eden believes Garrett has decided that she and Cross may be in cahoots and this leads to her seeking answers on her own. When Simon's sister Meg also finds Garrett's investigation to be too focused on her brother, she and Eden join forces to out-sleuth the sleuths. And it's amazing what suspects and witnesses will tell ladies that they'd never dream of telling the police...But when their queries put them too close on the murderer's trail, they find that s/he isn't afraid to kill again if necessary to keep their secrets safe.
This is a marvelous debut novel in a new historical series. My favorite historical time period runs from the Victorian era through World War II and this look at the years between the wars was a great treat. The characters are vivid and well-defined and even though we've just met, I feel like I've known Eden and Meg, Simon and Inspector Garrett for ages. Eden and Meg make an excellent amateur detective team and really steal the show from Garrett (if he's intended to the be the leading recurring character). Not that the inspector doesn't have his charm. One definitely sympathizes with his trials and tribulations with his less competent subordinates (and superior, if the truth be told). One gets the feeling that he could really shine if there were better support amongst his colleagues. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward with great anticipation for future installments!
~~~This book was given to me as a review copy by the author, Darcy Graves in exchange for an honest review. All comments (except the quoted synopsis--in italics) are my own and I have received no payment of any kind.
Detective Inspector William Garrett is quiet, perceptive, and fairly certain he already has his man. He tells Eden to go home, read a book, and leave the detecting to the professionals But how can she?
Racing to clear their names before Garrett closes the case, Eden follows the truth from the bright footlights of the London stage through the sleek drawing rooms of Jazz Age society, and secrets that someone will kill to keep buried.
Eden believes Garrett has decided that she and Cross may be in cahoots and this leads to her seeking answers on her own. When Simon's sister Meg also finds Garrett's investigation to be too focused on her brother, she and Eden join forces to out-sleuth the sleuths. And it's amazing what suspects and witnesses will tell ladies that they'd never dream of telling the police...But when their queries put them too close on the murderer's trail, they find that s/he isn't afraid to kill again if necessary to keep their secrets safe.
This is a marvelous debut novel in a new historical series. My favorite historical time period runs from the Victorian era through World War II and this look at the years between the wars was a great treat. The characters are vivid and well-defined and even though we've just met, I feel like I've known Eden and Meg, Simon and Inspector Garrett for ages. Eden and Meg make an excellent amateur detective team and really steal the show from Garrett (if he's intended to the be the leading recurring character). Not that the inspector doesn't have his charm. One definitely sympathizes with his trials and tribulations with his less competent subordinates (and superior, if the truth be told). One gets the feeling that he could really shine if there were better support amongst his colleagues. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward with great anticipation for future installments!
~~~This book was given to me as a review copy by the author, Darcy Graves in exchange for an honest review. All comments (except the quoted synopsis--in italics) are my own and I have received no payment of any kind.
June 6, 2026
Okay but The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s really said “here’s a cozy little murder mystery” and then emotionally destroyed everyone involved. 😭
This book has EVERYTHING, a dead French actress in a creepy old library, war-traumatized suspects, messy secrets, dramatic rich people, and enough suspicious behavior to make literally every character look guilty.
The vibes? Foggy streets, dusty bookshelves, cigarette smoke, and emotional damage.
Detective Inspector William Garrett instantly became one of my favorite fictional detectives because he’s not loud or flashy, he’s just quietly smart, exhausted, and trying to solve a murder while surrounded by people lying through their teeth.
And Simon Cross? Oh this man was BROKEN broken. Brooding war veteran energy, tragic backstory, secret marriage, shell shock, morphine addiction, basically the walking definition of “needs therapy but it’s the 1920s.”
The real stars though? Eden and Meg. Watching these two investigate on their own while the police underestimate them was SO satisfying. Their scenes together gave major “smart women fixing problems caused by emotionally constipated men” energy.
And the library setting? Absolutely elite. Every hallway, hidden balcony, and ancient book felt creepy in the best possible way. I could practically hear the dramatic thunder in the background.
The craziest part is that Isabelle was never even planning to expose him. One misunderstanding turned into murder, manipulation, and a whole frame-up operation. Men will literally commit homicide instead of communicating properly. 💀
If you love murder mysteries with dark academia vibes, complicated characters, slow-burn tension, and twists that make you stare at the wall afterward, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
This book has EVERYTHING, a dead French actress in a creepy old library, war-traumatized suspects, messy secrets, dramatic rich people, and enough suspicious behavior to make literally every character look guilty.
The vibes? Foggy streets, dusty bookshelves, cigarette smoke, and emotional damage.
Detective Inspector William Garrett instantly became one of my favorite fictional detectives because he’s not loud or flashy, he’s just quietly smart, exhausted, and trying to solve a murder while surrounded by people lying through their teeth.
And Simon Cross? Oh this man was BROKEN broken. Brooding war veteran energy, tragic backstory, secret marriage, shell shock, morphine addiction, basically the walking definition of “needs therapy but it’s the 1920s.”
The real stars though? Eden and Meg. Watching these two investigate on their own while the police underestimate them was SO satisfying. Their scenes together gave major “smart women fixing problems caused by emotionally constipated men” energy.
And the library setting? Absolutely elite. Every hallway, hidden balcony, and ancient book felt creepy in the best possible way. I could practically hear the dramatic thunder in the background.
The craziest part is that Isabelle was never even planning to expose him. One misunderstanding turned into murder, manipulation, and a whole frame-up operation. Men will literally commit homicide instead of communicating properly. 💀
If you love murder mysteries with dark academia vibes, complicated characters, slow-burn tension, and twists that make you stare at the wall afterward, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
July 25, 2026
Set in London in 1923, this book is an engaging historical murder mystery that is both atmospheric and highly entertaining. The novel is an easy read, with vivid, well defined characters and a mystery that keeps the pages turning. It has all the ingredients of a great read: a dead french actress discovered in an old library, tangled secrets, multiple lovers, wealthy suspects and a pair of determined amateur detectives.
Eden and Meg make an excellent investigative duo. Their chemistry is one of the highlights of the novel, bringing humor, warmth and plenty of sharp dialogue to the story. Their determination to uncover the truth makes them memorable protagonist and I enjoyed following them as they untangled the web of lies surrounding the murder.
My favourite character, however, was detective Garrett. Intelligent, persistent and unfazed by pressure from his superior, he is determined to solve the case despite having to deal with an incompetent subordinate and a seemingly endless parade of dishonest witnesses. His methodical, professional approach provides the perfect contrast to Eden and Meg's amateur sleuthing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The author has crafted a clever, twist filled mystery with a wonderful setting and a cast of memorable characters. Fans of Agatha Christie and anyone who enjoys an engaging murder mystery full of surprises should add this book to their shelves.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eden and Meg make an excellent investigative duo. Their chemistry is one of the highlights of the novel, bringing humor, warmth and plenty of sharp dialogue to the story. Their determination to uncover the truth makes them memorable protagonist and I enjoyed following them as they untangled the web of lies surrounding the murder.
My favourite character, however, was detective Garrett. Intelligent, persistent and unfazed by pressure from his superior, he is determined to solve the case despite having to deal with an incompetent subordinate and a seemingly endless parade of dishonest witnesses. His methodical, professional approach provides the perfect contrast to Eden and Meg's amateur sleuthing.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The author has crafted a clever, twist filled mystery with a wonderful setting and a cast of memorable characters. Fans of Agatha Christie and anyone who enjoys an engaging murder mystery full of surprises should add this book to their shelves.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2026
London, 1923. Librarian Eden Brior is accidentally locked overnight in the St. Cecelia’s Library vault with Simon Cross, only to emerge to find the police and the body of Cross's estranged actress wife.
Detective Inspector William Garrett and his team investigate but Eden decides to ask questions as she is a suspect.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Inspector William Garrett and his team investigate but Eden decides to ask questions as she is a suspect.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2026
What a fun read! A period detective novel set in 1920s England after World War I, the author manages to thread the needle between creating a light and intriguing mystery paired with an accurate and compelling picture of post-war England. Our seemingly glamorous victim led quite the tangled life; did anyone really know her? And poor Detective Inspector Garrett is a competent and savvy detective, faced with the challenge of investigating her murder while surrounded by markedly less competent colleagues, in a mostly pre-forensics era, all while juggling the egos and cultural mores of the time. I gobbled this book up while sitting in the sunshine one Sunday afternoon - this is a really great summer read! I am looking forward to the next Inspector Garrett mystery!
September 9, 2026
The year is 1923, and American Eden Brior finds herself working as a librarian in London. Everything started normally for Eden at St. Cecelia’s Library until the night of an accidental book vault lock-in with a charming, careless stranger named Simon Cross. After a night spent there, she finds herself in the middle of the murder case of French stage actress Isabelle Jalbert. Who murdered her? How can she prove that she and Simon were not involved, even with the fact that Detective Garrett has evidence otherwise?
This is the mystery detective story of The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s: An Inspector Garrett Mystery by Darcy Graves. In the beginning of the story, we follow Eden Brior, in charge of the play readings at St. Cecelia’s. We meet quirky characters that seem to have just as much drama as the plays they read out. We find out that Eden can be timid and shy, especially when it comes to the young, wealthy men who often meet at the library, and Simon Cross was no exception to this. When Eden and Simon accidentally get themselves locked inside the vault overnight, they awaken to a nightmare. After Detective Garrett and other officers free them, they let them know a murder took place in the library. The victim is a beautiful French stage actress whom Simon shares a life-changing secret with. Detective Garrett proceeds with this case, with unwanted help from Eden and Simon’s sister Margaret, known as Meg.
I have to first acknowledge that usually I’m not a big fan of mystery books, especially detective-centered ones, but after reading the description of this book, I was intrigued, and as I read the story, it immediately caught my full attention: I had to know what happened next. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The characters were filled with depth and quirks that made them unforgettable and charming. The possible romance and tension building between the characters kept me turning the pages just as much as the mystery itself.
The writing is accessible, eloquent, and the pacing is exceptionally well-executed. The clues were well placed and not at all, in my opinion, conspicuous, completely respecting the reader’s intelligence. I also really enjoyed the chosen historical time and place. I felt transported to 1920s London. It felt like a very classic mystery story, and I could tell the author knew a lot about this time period. I recommend Darcy Graves’ The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s to mystery lovers, but also to anyone who would like to give detective books another chance.
This is the mystery detective story of The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s: An Inspector Garrett Mystery by Darcy Graves. In the beginning of the story, we follow Eden Brior, in charge of the play readings at St. Cecelia’s. We meet quirky characters that seem to have just as much drama as the plays they read out. We find out that Eden can be timid and shy, especially when it comes to the young, wealthy men who often meet at the library, and Simon Cross was no exception to this. When Eden and Simon accidentally get themselves locked inside the vault overnight, they awaken to a nightmare. After Detective Garrett and other officers free them, they let them know a murder took place in the library. The victim is a beautiful French stage actress whom Simon shares a life-changing secret with. Detective Garrett proceeds with this case, with unwanted help from Eden and Simon’s sister Margaret, known as Meg.
I have to first acknowledge that usually I’m not a big fan of mystery books, especially detective-centered ones, but after reading the description of this book, I was intrigued, and as I read the story, it immediately caught my full attention: I had to know what happened next. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The characters were filled with depth and quirks that made them unforgettable and charming. The possible romance and tension building between the characters kept me turning the pages just as much as the mystery itself.
The writing is accessible, eloquent, and the pacing is exceptionally well-executed. The clues were well placed and not at all, in my opinion, conspicuous, completely respecting the reader’s intelligence. I also really enjoyed the chosen historical time and place. I felt transported to 1920s London. It felt like a very classic mystery story, and I could tell the author knew a lot about this time period. I recommend Darcy Graves’ The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s to mystery lovers, but also to anyone who would like to give detective books another chance.
September 4, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the free copy of this book, I had a wonderful time reading it!
The story follows Inspector Garrett, Eden, Simon, and Meg as they all try to figure out who murdered a French actress in the library. They all have their own secrets, and are connected to the murder in one way or another.
This book was so good! I really enjoyed reading it. It was such a fun and compelling story that followed really interesting characters. There were some twists that I didn’t see coming, and I loved how it felt like everyone was a suspect in some way. I really enjoyed all four of the main characters, how Eden and Meg started doing their own investigation to try to clear Simon and Eden’s names. I really liked Simon’s character, and how he seems like this rebellious guy at first, then you see how deeply he’s been broken down.
Over all, this was a very enjoyable read, and if you like mystery books, give it a chance.
The story follows Inspector Garrett, Eden, Simon, and Meg as they all try to figure out who murdered a French actress in the library. They all have their own secrets, and are connected to the murder in one way or another.
This book was so good! I really enjoyed reading it. It was such a fun and compelling story that followed really interesting characters. There were some twists that I didn’t see coming, and I loved how it felt like everyone was a suspect in some way. I really enjoyed all four of the main characters, how Eden and Meg started doing their own investigation to try to clear Simon and Eden’s names. I really liked Simon’s character, and how he seems like this rebellious guy at first, then you see how deeply he’s been broken down.
Over all, this was a very enjoyable read, and if you like mystery books, give it a chance.
September 9, 2026
The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s is a charming historical mystery that does a great job of capturing the atmosphere of 1920s London. The combination of a murder investigation, Jazz Age society, theater, hidden secrets, and an amateur sleuth makes the story engaging from the beginning.
I especially enjoyed Eden Brior as a protagonist. Her curiosity and determination to uncover the truth, even when she’s told to stay out of the investigation, give the story plenty of personality. The Golden Age detective influence is also clear, with plenty of suspects, secrets, and twists to keep the mystery moving.
The setting is one of the book’s strongest features. It feels glamorous on the surface while maintaining that darker mystery underneath. Fans of historical mysteries and classic detective fiction should find plenty to enjoy here.
Overall, it’s an atmospheric and entertaining mystery with memorable characters, a fascinating setting, and a satisfying old-school detective feel.
I especially enjoyed Eden Brior as a protagonist. Her curiosity and determination to uncover the truth, even when she’s told to stay out of the investigation, give the story plenty of personality. The Golden Age detective influence is also clear, with plenty of suspects, secrets, and twists to keep the mystery moving.
The setting is one of the book’s strongest features. It feels glamorous on the surface while maintaining that darker mystery underneath. Fans of historical mysteries and classic detective fiction should find plenty to enjoy here.
Overall, it’s an atmospheric and entertaining mystery with memorable characters, a fascinating setting, and a satisfying old-school detective feel.
September 16, 2026
This is the first novel in the Garrett Mystery series, and it takes place in 1920s England. It was pretty good for a first novel. I like the characters and their development. The author is good at writing description and dialogue. The story was engaging and kept me reading to find out who murdered Isobel, although I figured that out towards the end of the novel. The market is flooded with books that take place during WWII, and it's refreshing to read books that are set in the early 1920s. The book does a great job of capturing the atmosphere of London during the early 1920s.
One thing that disappointed me was the book description states that Eden came to England looking for her lost brother. I was hoping to learn more about that. Maybe those details will be told in other books as the series progresses.
Thank you NetGalley and Pomegranate Seed Press for a chance to review this book.
One thing that disappointed me was the book description states that Eden came to England looking for her lost brother. I was hoping to learn more about that. Maybe those details will be told in other books as the series progresses.
Thank you NetGalley and Pomegranate Seed Press for a chance to review this book.
September 16, 2026
A charming, atmospheric homage to Golden Age mysteries
The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s by Darcy Graves is a delightful 1920s cozy mystery that blends locked‑room intrigue with vibrant Jazz Age detail. When French actress Isabelle Jalbert is murdered, American librarian Eden Brior and Bright Young Thing Simon Cross form an irresistible sleuthing duo, navigating bohemian theater circles, library alcoves, and London society in search of the truth.
Graves excels at period atmosphere and character dynamics. Eden and Simon’s interplay is witty and engaging, while Inspector Garrett brings grounded empathy shaped by wartime trauma. The mystery itself is layered with classic Golden Age twists — bigamy, opium dens, secret pasts, and even an inside‑out dress — all woven into a satisfying whodunit.
A charming, clever, and beautifully atmospheric mystery perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Carola Dunn, and classic post‑WWI detective fiction.
The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s by Darcy Graves is a delightful 1920s cozy mystery that blends locked‑room intrigue with vibrant Jazz Age detail. When French actress Isabelle Jalbert is murdered, American librarian Eden Brior and Bright Young Thing Simon Cross form an irresistible sleuthing duo, navigating bohemian theater circles, library alcoves, and London society in search of the truth.
Graves excels at period atmosphere and character dynamics. Eden and Simon’s interplay is witty and engaging, while Inspector Garrett brings grounded empathy shaped by wartime trauma. The mystery itself is layered with classic Golden Age twists — bigamy, opium dens, secret pasts, and even an inside‑out dress — all woven into a satisfying whodunit.
A charming, clever, and beautifully atmospheric mystery perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Carola Dunn, and classic post‑WWI detective fiction.
August 7, 2026
1/5 stars: This is Graves's first entry in Inspector Garrett Mysteries series which is a Historical Mystery set in England, 1923. Featuring an American librarian, who's in England looking for her lost brother, a handsome and charming wastrel, his sister, who's married to a college don, and a detective inspector who become entangled in the murder of a French actress found dead strangled in the library's upstairs nave. It will take them all, even those suspected of the crime, to unweave this killer's web.
This book's told in multiple POVs. Unfortunately, this just didn't click for me; leading me to DNF it at 19%.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and ARC provided by Pomegranate Seed Press in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
This book's told in multiple POVs. Unfortunately, this just didn't click for me; leading me to DNF it at 19%.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and ARC provided by Pomegranate Seed Press in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
September 6, 2026
History and mystery
Don't we love this combination? 😅
Well this book is for those who love to go back to those good old days after the first world war and solve a mystery.
A beautiful actress is murdered.
All clues lead to one suspect
Simon Cross
But he has an alibi .
Eden
Inspector Garret has a hunch that Simon maynot be the killer
Then who ?
The aggressive husband?
A lover ?
An admirer who sends lilies?
Or someone else from her days in Paris?
I loved the characters.
The story made them living breathing humans
Though mystery wise not the best but quite an enjoyable read
#bookreviews #NetGalley #mystery #books #historicalfiction
Don't we love this combination? 😅
Well this book is for those who love to go back to those good old days after the first world war and solve a mystery.
A beautiful actress is murdered.
All clues lead to one suspect
Simon Cross
But he has an alibi .
Eden
Inspector Garret has a hunch that Simon maynot be the killer
Then who ?
The aggressive husband?
A lover ?
An admirer who sends lilies?
Or someone else from her days in Paris?
I loved the characters.
The story made them living breathing humans
Though mystery wise not the best but quite an enjoyable read
#bookreviews #NetGalley #mystery #books #historicalfiction
September 13, 2026
This cozy mystery centers on a murder that takes place in a library at closing time. Librarian Eden finds herself locked in the vault with a patron she's just met, Simon. The two quickly become the investigation's prime suspects, but the detective in charge doesn't believe Simon is guilty.
Determined to clear their names, Eden and Simon's sister set out to do some detective work of their own.
I found the early clue a bit too obvious, but the book was still an enjoyable read. The characters are well developed, and the investigation itself was worthwhile and engaging.
Determined to clear their names, Eden and Simon's sister set out to do some detective work of their own.
I found the early clue a bit too obvious, but the book was still an enjoyable read. The characters are well developed, and the investigation itself was worthwhile and engaging.
September 1, 2026
DRC from Edelweiss and Pomegranate Seed Press / IndieReader In-Store
Mystery, historical fiction.
Eden is a library clerk in London during the early 1920’s. She is American, living in London hoping to find her lost brother who was in the war. While at work, looking to close up the library for the night, she over hears an argument between a man and a woman. Needing to put a manuscript into the vault, she runs into the man, who accompanies her into the vault, that is then shut and locked with them in it. Eden learns that the man is Simon Cross. Since there is nothing they can do until the morning, they wait it out. When they are rescued early the next day, they discover the woman has been murdered in the library. Without much to go on, the cops suspect Eden and Simon. Setting off the find the real killer, Eden learns much about both Simon, Isabelle, and London theatre.
A classic mystery with confused detectives, many clues, red herrings, and a satisfying ending.
Mystery, historical fiction.
Eden is a library clerk in London during the early 1920’s. She is American, living in London hoping to find her lost brother who was in the war. While at work, looking to close up the library for the night, she over hears an argument between a man and a woman. Needing to put a manuscript into the vault, she runs into the man, who accompanies her into the vault, that is then shut and locked with them in it. Eden learns that the man is Simon Cross. Since there is nothing they can do until the morning, they wait it out. When they are rescued early the next day, they discover the woman has been murdered in the library. Without much to go on, the cops suspect Eden and Simon. Setting off the find the real killer, Eden learns much about both Simon, Isabelle, and London theatre.
A classic mystery with confused detectives, many clues, red herrings, and a satisfying ending.
August 2, 2026
The first 9% of the book was a little bit difficult for me to understand. There are some grammatical errors throughout the book. The POV switches feel random at times and are a little bit difficult to keep track of as well. It also feels very slow paced. It feels like a much longer book than it is. Overall not a bad read, but definitely not a favorite.
August 4, 2026
A slow build. I wasn't sure about it to begin with, but it was well worth sticking with. It turned into a page turner - and I was surprised by whodunnit! I'd like more Inspector Garrett, Meg and possibly Eden & Simon books.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher I read an advance review copy of the book. This review is honest and my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publisher I read an advance review copy of the book. This review is honest and my own opinion.
September 20, 2026
This was a real good story in my opinion. The characters were well developed, and I thought that they could easily be existing in real life. The storyline was entertaining and I found myself getting stuck into the story from the very first paragraph.
Thank you to StoryOrigin for this complimentary copy.
Thank you to StoryOrigin for this complimentary copy.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews