The Harlot of St. Cecelia's: An Inspector Garrett Mystery

by Darcy Graves

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, 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.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Mystery

310 pages, Paperback

First published May 5, 2026

About the author

Darcy 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.

Reviews

[Blaine DeSantis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Darcy Graves has written a truly compellingly readable debut mystery novel! Set in 1923, this book certainly has the feel of those great works of the Golden Age of British Mystery. Set in England, the book has a plot that never lets up! It is filled with easy to know characters, and does a great job of hiding the killer until the end of the book. The plot revolves around the strangulation death of a French theater actress who is discovered dead on a chair in a public library, and whose death most likely occurred after the library was closed. Add to that the fact that two people were locked in a basement vault overnight with no means of escape, and a manageable group of possible suspects and you have a first rate murder mystery. The main characters are well defined, and even the chapters about Inspector Garrett 's search for a new apartment in which to reside, and the family he interacts with are extremely well crafted.. This is a well written book and Darcy Graves is certainly a name we should keep an eye on for future books. This is one of the best debut mystery novels I have read in years.
Not perfect, but close enough that it deserves 5*****

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Sneha · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Jill A Lavacchia · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[boogleloo · Rating 1 out of 5]

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.

[David Prestidge · Rating 4 out of 5]

England, 1923. Eden Brior is a librarian at a London institution called St Cecelia's, and a long way from home, even though her native Boston was at that time perhaps, the most English of American cities. Through no fault of her own, she becomes involved in the investigation into a particularly horrid murder, that of a beautiful - but damaged - French actress. The dead woman is Isabelle Jalbert, someone whose physical beauty has caused those around her - both men and women - an exquisite blend of pain and joy.

Her current husband (although we learn that she is guilty of bigamy) is an American theatre producer called Alan Holloway, although we have already been told that Isabelle has considerable 'history' with an apparently feckless and reckless man called Simon Cross who lives with his sister Meg and her husband Arthur in a London suburb.

I have been fascinated by The Great War since I was a teenager, have walked countless miles across the former battlefields, and I am drawn instinctively to novels set in the 1920s and 1930s. At the forefront of my mind is always a variant of the question, "What did you do in the war, Daddy?" Simon Cross is certainly of an age to have served, as is Inspector Garrett. In fact, Simon Cross served in France as a Captain in the East Surreys, and was awarded the Military Cross but, as he tells Garrett, "After The Somme, they just gave them to anyone who was left." Two days after The Armistice, Cross simply disappeared in Paris, was eventually found, court marshaled and dishonorably discharged. Garrett also did his bit, but with the London Irish in Palestine, and he has a leg disfigured by Turkish shells and bullets to prove it.

While Cross lives with his sister and her rather pompous husband, Garrett rents a room in a noisy and inhospitable house. The owner sells up, and our man has to seek accommodation elsewhere. Cross is the enigma. He is apparently louche, decadent, and idle, but Garrett discovers he secretly trains as a sprinter. We also discover that his post war Paris days were spent in the company of both Isabelle and a mysterious painter called Marc Etienne, now in the later stages of morphine addiction, a habit he shared with Isabelle.

At the root of the mystery, I suppose, is the question of money. Simon Cross appears to have no income, yet he lives the high life of gentlemen's clubs and expensive taxis. The pompous Arthur Drake is a university lecturer, but he and Meg can afford a chauffeur and a maid. Isabelle was supposed to be on the verge of a family bequest, and Alan Holloway, like many theatre producers, is almost permanently broke.

Eden Brior flits in and out of the narrative. She is certainly not a conventional heroine. She seems dowdy and frequently flustered, although intelligent and observant. In the end, she identifies the killer of Isabelle at about the same time as Garrett, but for different reasons.

Darcy Graves grew up in Boston and holds an MA in English history. 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.

There is, at the end of the Kindle version of the book, a set of readers' discussion questions, presumably aimed at groups that like to talk about books and their interpretation. One of the questions is about the title. Ms Graves asks, "Who, or what, do you think the title ultimately points toward?"Good question. For all her faults, Isabelle Jalbert was only briefly acquainted with St Cecelia's and, if we take the 'H' word to mean a prostitute, then Eden's morals seem to be unblemished. Perhaps, then, it is a 'what', and there is some metaphor hidden here. Obviously, this book is a pastiche, but it is delightfully done, with a genuine sense of awareness for the brittle and uncertain times that followed The Great War. It is independently published, and available now.

[READER VIEWS · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚 A murder in a university bookvault? Lock me in I clearly have questionable survival instincts.

The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s by Darcy Graves whisked me straight into England, 1923, where the war may be over, but its shadows still linger beneath the polished manners, whispered politics, reading circles & theatrical productions of a cloistered university town.

And then there’s Eden Brior.

As an American librarian searching England for her missing brother, Eden has found an unexpected sort of refuge among the stacks of St. Cecelia’s. She’s sharp, observant, independent & just a little out of step with the world around her which, naturally, makes her considerably more interesting than everyone pretending to have impeccable manners.

When Eden and the utterly charming & equally impossible Simon Cross become accidentally trapped in the bookvault, things are already awkward enough. Then a French actress is discovered murdered in the nave upstairs.

Suddenly Eden isn’t simply a witness. She could be a suspect.

Enter Inspector William Garrett, a seasoned investigator who seems to have encountered just about everything… except, perhaps, an American librarian with a knack for finding herself in suspicious circumstances.

I loved the elegant, atmospheric setting & the way Darcy Graves blends historical mystery with clever character dynamics & just enough romantic tension to keep things deliciously complicated. The university setting, old-world atmosphere, literary touches & murder investigation gave this story such a wonderfully cozy-but-intriguing feel.

Eden was absolutely my kind of protagonist: smart, curious, capable & perfectly willing to poke around where she probably shouldn’t. And honestly? Put a librarian, a mysterious murder, a bookvault & a suspiciously charming man together & I’m going to need answers.

If you enjoy historical mysteries with atmospheric settings, witty characters, literary flair & a touch of romantic tension, The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s deserves a spot on your reading list.

📖 Thank you to Partners in Crime Tours & Darcy Graves for sharing The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s with me!

[Lauren Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Elisabeth · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

I was given a review copy back in May but a bunch of family stuff came up and then I lost it when I transferred my reading apps to a different device. Anyways I found it! All of the following opinions are my own

It’s been a while since I’ve read a good old fashioned murder mystery and I’m happy to say that this was pretty much everything I could want. I felt like I was watching one of those old murder mystery shows that I used to watch with my mom and I mean that in the best way possible. I had so much fun following all the clues and questions alongside the characters. I found myself really found myself engaged and wanting to ignore all my responsibilities to finish this book! I did accidentally predict who the killer was. The character came on page and I went “I don’t know if you did it but I want it to be you because I don’t like you” it’s a really fun read especially if you’re like me and you like the feel of old fashioned murder mysteries

[Andrea Wenger · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1923 London, a French actress is murdered inside St. Cecelia’s Library. Her former paramour, charming Simon, looks guilty—especially after spending the night locked in the book vault with librarian Eden. Determined to clear him, Eden works with Inspector Garrett to chase clues through Covent Garden theatres and Jazz Age society.

This book is super fun—I loved the characters. The mystery is intriguing but not quite as dark as the cover suggests. It's a good start to the series, with a nice hint of romance to come.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[G.P. Gottlieb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quiet and unassuming librarian Eden Brior is an American expat in 1923 London who gets locked overnight in the library vault with Simon Cross, a charming Brit. They’re freed the next morning by Detective Inspector William Garrett, who suspects Simon of murdering a woman, Simon’s estranged wife, whose body is lying on a chair upstairs. The librarian befriends Simon’s sister, who knows Simon couldn’t have committed such a heinous crime, and the two women begin ferreting out the real murderer. The Harlot of St. Cecelia’s is a sleek, Jazz Age mystery about infidelity, acting, and murder.

[Katreader · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

THE HARLOT OF ST. CECELIA'S by Darcy Graves
The First Inspector Garrett Mystery

As Eden Brior has no plans and wants to finish up some work she volunteers to stay and close St. Cecelia's library for the night. After witnessing some unexpected drama with a stunning French woman and a bright young thing she accidentally gets locked in the library vault with that very bright young thing, a playboy named Simon Cross. Released by the police in the morning Eden wonders how they knew to rescue them. The problem is that the police weren't there to save them, but because there was a dead body in the library - that of the French woman. Even with his supervisor leaning on him to make a quick arrest, along with saddling him with an incompetent sergeant, Detective Inspector Garrett intends to fully investigate the murder, even if the evidence is pointing directly to Simon Cross. Eden believes Simon is innocent. After all, he was trapped with her and simply didn't have enough time to kill the woman. Both Inspector Garrett and Eden will follow the clues to find the killer, but is that person closer than they think?

I truly enjoyed being in 1923 London with Eden. I like how she's both a fish out of water, an American expat living in London with few friends, as well as someone who is right in her element, working in the sanctity that is St. Cecilia's library and investigating the murder. THE HARLOT OF ST. CECELIA'S has more than a few laughs, Eden's play-reading circle that both opens and closes the book and Inspector Garrett's dealings with both his stoogeish sergeant and the children, for example.

I appreciate the nods to the Golden Age of detective fiction, particularly the use of fair play. I noticed a clue early on which led me to consider the killer before any of the protagonists. That clue made me suspicious, but not certain, and I enjoyed seeing the investigation proceed by both Inspector Garrett and Eden.

Distinct characterizations, adept historical world building, and a finely crafted mystery make THE HARLOT OF ST. CECELIA'S a delightful start to a new series.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hooked on this enjoyable historical mystery from the moment I discovered the mystery took place in a library in London. It is 1923 and the people are still dealing with the aftermath of World War I The library is locked and librarian Eden Brior, an American expat, and Simon Cross are locked in the vault when the crime occurs. The police are quick to try to pin the crime on Simon but Detective Inspector William Garrett thinks there is more to it than meets the eye. As Eden tries to clear her name she finds a partner in her investigations in Simon’s sister, Meg. Will they discover who is behind the crime before it is too late? This is the first book in the Inspector Garrett mystery series and I look forward to reading more.

The characters are well written and the relationships between them are interesting and evolving. Each character has their own secrets and struggles that make them seem real. I felt that Eden and Meg’s detective work added so much to the story, in fact I thought they were the focus of the series for part of the book. Detective Inspector William Garrett is thoughtful and not willing to close a case on circumstantial evidence. Plus he has a growing interest in Meg. The characters are good together and I hope they are all in the next book.

The locked library mystery kept me guessing, especially after the identity and relationships of the victim were revealed. I enjoy trying to figure out the clues and how they are connected.

I recommend this book to readers that enjoy locked building mysteries.

Thanks to Partners in Crime VBT for the free, gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Harlot of St. Cecelia's is the first book in Darcy Graves' Inspector Garrett Mystery series. The book takes place in 1923 London, a few years after the war has ended. The book starts off with Eden and Simon being locked into a library vault overnight. When they are discovered in the morning, they find out their misfortune wasn't the only nefarious thing that happened that night. A young woman named Isabel had been murdered, and the last person seen talking to her had been Simon. Inspector Garrett is put on the case, and all of the evidence seems to point to Simon as the murderer. With the well-intentioned help of Meg, Simon's sister, and Eden, Garrett hopes to find Isabel's killer.

I enjoyed the slow introduction to the characters. This book did a great job of introducing everyone and making you want to get to know them. I really hope Eden, Meg, and Simon are in the next book in the series. I felt some budding romantic tension and I hope it might be explored in future books. I would also love to know more of Eden's backstory. It feels like there is more there than we were given.

Normally, I'm not a huge fan of historical fiction, but I really enjoyed how well it blended into the story. The writing made me feel like I had slipped into the 1920s post-war England.

If you're a fan of historical mysteries, this book would be a perfect pick. I personally can't wait to read the next book in the series.

Many thanks to Darcy Graves and Partners in Crime Tours for the gifted copy in exchange for my honest review. 

[Jodi · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

The best part of this book was, not only did the mystery go to places I wasn't expecting, but it seemed to leave some unanswered questions about many of the characters that I'm dying to learn more about. What are the secrets Simon is hiding from Paris? Why does Eden wear a man's coat? Is Garrett haunted by his war experiences? Why is his new landlady struggling to raise her grandchildren? So the murder mystery may be solved on the last page but you're left wanting more about these interesting characters who have rich (but veiled) back stories.

If you like a book full of excitement and danger, this may not be for you. The Harlot of St. Cecelia's (love the title!) is a cerebral mystery. It is solved through interviews and deciphering clues. So some may find it a bit slower paced in the middle. Unlikely people pair up to try and discover who murdered the beautiful actress and so many of the sleuths are a combination of naive and jaded. Who knew those two traits could co-exist? Refreshingly, a romance was not shoehorned into the plot.

The period between the two wars was an interesting time and this book portrays that competing pull of the past and the future, the rich class system and the new equalizing brought about by the Great War. I'd love to see more about the characters (especially Garrett and Eden) and how World War I shaped them and brought them to where they are right now.

I received a free copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours in exchange for an honest review.

[Pat · Rating 2 out of 5]

2- 2.5 out of 5
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
The description of this book was appealing - murder in a British library in the 1920s and a fish-out-of-water American lady librarian.
The reality is more like - Eden, a librarian, gets trapped overnight in the library she works in with a random library patron, and they find a dead body when they get out the next morning. Then most of the book concerns Inspector William Garrett's investigation into who killed the victim. However, the POV does randomly pick up Eden, and the man she was trapped with, Simon.
I never really understood why Eden was there, or what she does at the 'library', which seems to be an old church (?), maybe attached to a school? What (?) suburban London (?) library in 1923 has an automatic overnight self-locking vault? How is she careless enough to get locked in if she works there? There's a short reference to her brother, who I guess is missing, but again, this just doesn't go anywhere.
This is meant to take place 'around London', but there's really no attempt to physically establish the characters there - which would be pretty easy to do - I was constantly confused by the characters travelling around from one undefined location to another. There were a lot of other dead ends, loose ends and frustrating inconsistencies. I think a lot of this could have been improved with some strict editing.

[Victoria Brinius · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book set in a specific era. The Jazz age was full of singing, dancing, clubs and amateur detectives. Set in a library in London, there is definitely a feeling of hidden knowledge. Especially in a vault! At times I was more interested in what amazing books could be in the vault, then who the murderer was. The characters Eden and Simon were set up. Secrets come to light, and I start to dislike some of the characters. Cheating spouses, messed up characters, women leading the plot, suspects at every turn, and a detective that tells women to go home and drink tea, kept me reading. I wanted to slap him into the new century. The ending was not really satisfying. What happened to the characters that I wanted to be punished? Who ended up together? I definitely think that the next book in the series is going to have more background on the characters. I thought that I knew who the killer was, and I was almost right. I got the reason wrong. This is a great historical mystery. I will definitely keep my eye out for other books by this author. I really enjoyed the snippets at the beginning of each chapter as well. The author has an MA in English History and she weaves her knowledge throughout the book. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, nevertheless all opinions are my own.

[Arc by Bethy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 1923 in London and it's after World War 1. I haven't read many books that takes place in London in this time period. So I was eager to dive in to this one, the setting, and the roaring 20s. I settled in with this book one evening when it was storming with a warm blanket and hoped for a cozy mystery and the book delivered just that and more! I couldn't put it down, with the storm raging outside it set the atmospheric mood perfectly and the authors words detailed the setting so I felt like I was in an old library. From the ancient books, all the twist and turns of the library and plot, I felt like I was there! I really loved the characters, Eden and Meg as they investigated together. Their banter and dialogue was a highlight to the book. And the detective Garrett, is smart and persistent while facing multiple challenges. I read this in one evening, not only because the pacing was well executed and kept me guessing but I wanted to read and try to figure out whodunit! Highly recommend this book and this entry book to the new series! I received a free eARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shree · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

An entertaining historical cozy mystery!
The book was well written and perfectly paced for a historical mystery and it is even more impressive considering that this is the author's debut novel. The characters are well defined as well. The female lead characters aren't the usual seasoned detectives with a cool and practiced deficiency. They are as anxious and scared as any other women would be, but they persist anyway in solving the mystery. I guessed the killer long before the lead characters even looked that way but that didn't make reading the rest of the book any less enjoyable.
I was particularly happy to see Meg boldly reclaim her life and find happiness and peace after the traumatic episode. That is no easy feat and it was both uplifting and inspiring to see a person handle life with such emotional strength and resilience. I suppose we could say that about most people who lived through the years of war; nevertheless it never ceases to impress me.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for providing the arc of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Elena Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Darcy Graves's The Harlot of St. Cecelia's offers an engaging historical mystery set in England in 1923, where the outward calm of university life is disrupted by the murder of a French actress. At the center is Eden Brior, an American librarian searching for her missing brother, who becomes entangled in the investigation after an unfortunate incident leaves her locked in a book vault with the charming Simon Cross. With Inspector William Garrett questioning the circumstances, the story establishes an intriguing web of suspicion and uncertainty.

The novel's appeal lies in its combination of postwar atmosphere, witty characterization, and classic whodunit intrigue. Its focus on the people surrounding the victim, including those whose feelings and motives are unclear, promises a mystery driven as much by character as by clues. As the first installment in the Garrett Mystery series, it offers a starting point for readers who enjoy historical cozy mysteries, intrepid heroines, and morally ambiguous characters. The Kirkus Reviews endorsements included in the book description further highlight its reception as a 1920s-set detective story.

[Annie Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Janel · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Allistair Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

England 1923. The war over but not forgotten. Hundreds of soldiers who have returned suffering trauma. Not recognised for what it actually is and most people do not know how to deal with it. Eden an American librarian looking for her brother works at St Cecelias. Unexpectedly gets drawn into a family drama. Getting locked in overnight with Simon Cross was unexpected, and finding Isabelle Jalbert murdered in the library while they were locked up added to the problem, worse since Isabelle was married to Simon long years ago.

The immediate suspects are Simon and Eden, and the Detective’s boss wants Simon taken into custody as quickly as possible and the case wrapped up. Inspector Garrett prefers to follow the rules with evidence and motives his guidance. He is not sure that Simon is the murderer and so the cat and mouse investigation begins.

A nicely written debut mystery novel and an author I will be looking out for.

[Country Mama · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Harlot of St. Cecelia's by Darcy Graves is a Inspector Garrett mystery by the author. Eden Brior is our FMC who gets locked in a library with Simon Cross, which normally wouldn't be a big deal except someone ends up dead. It turns out to be Simon's estranged wife. Detective Inspector William Garrett shows up to solve the murder and finds so many people lying. This book is set in the 1920s and takes place in London. Eden starts to investigate with Meg, who are an excellent team. This book reminds me so much of an Agatha Christie novel with the whole murder mystery thing. I really loved this one overall, the multiple POV's keep you interested in the who actually killed the wife of Simon. And Simon was such a character! He had so much going on after the war with his addiction, marriage, and more. If you are a fan of historical mystery, you will love this read.

[Chandni · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Paula Korelitz · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.