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Bow Street Duchess Mystery #8
House of Peril
Having returned to London for the holidays, newlyweds Hugh and Audrey Marsden, the Viscount and Viscountess Neatham, have only one thing on their minds: the impending arrival of their first child. That is, until one wintry night, when Bow Street’s Chief Magistrate summons Hugh to the carriage house of a member of parliament, where a dead woman has been discovered. It’s Hugh’s first investigation in months—and regrettably, the main suspect is his wife’s former brother-in-law.
Although all evidence points toward Tobias Sinclair’s guilt, Audrey believes him when he insists he hasn’t killed Miss Penelope Harwood. Tobias may be a rogue, but he is no murderer. Just weeks away from entering her confinement, Audrey is determined to assist her husband in his inquiry, and to prove Tobias’s innocence—whether Hugh believes it is safe for her and the baby or not.
As several of Miss Harwood’s well-kept secrets surface, the motive for her murder begins to change. With a little help from their friends, Hugh and Audrey close in on the truth...and unknowingly push a desperate killer toward one last act of violence.
Although all evidence points toward Tobias Sinclair’s guilt, Audrey believes him when he insists he hasn’t killed Miss Penelope Harwood. Tobias may be a rogue, but he is no murderer. Just weeks away from entering her confinement, Audrey is determined to assist her husband in his inquiry, and to prove Tobias’s innocence—whether Hugh believes it is safe for her and the baby or not.
As several of Miss Harwood’s well-kept secrets surface, the motive for her murder begins to change. With a little help from their friends, Hugh and Audrey close in on the truth...and unknowingly push a desperate killer toward one last act of violence.
162 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2026
About the author
Cara Devlin
54 books508 followersCara is an author, reader, and history lover. She reads and writes across genres, but her heart is reserved for romantic historical fiction and mystery. Her Bow Street Duchess books are fast-paced historical mysteries featuring a slow-burn romance taking place in Regency London. The series begins with Murder at the Seven Dials. Cara lives in rural New England with her family, where she is at work on her next series, the Spencer & Reid Mysteries.
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October 9, 2026Happy launch day!
I promise I’ll read this soon!
Thank you Cara Devlin for the advanced copy. Can’t wait to revisit these two.
I promise I’ll read this soon!
Thank you Cara Devlin for the advanced copy. Can’t wait to revisit these two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Happy Pub Day!
It was like meeting old friends 🥹💗
Rtc, I promise 🫣
It was like meeting old friends 🥹💗
Rtc, I promise 🫣
Review of advance copy
Cara Devlin has really given us a gift here. Getting to see Audrey and Hugh again was such a treat! This mystery is set between the end of the original Bow Street Duchess books and the spin-off story about Cassie. Audrey is pregnant and that is changing the dynamic between her and a very nervous Hugh. We get to see all of the Sinclairs and the staff who became important secondary characters in the original books.
As the story opens, Audrey's brother-in-law from her former marriage shows up drunk at her house and she accidently touches his pocket watch, seeing a woman in a glass conservatory. She later realizes that Hugh was called away to investigate the death of the woman. This story is about class, wealthy, and the pressures to marry well to benefit family financially in this era. These themes were present in the entire series, as Hugh seemed unwilling to cross the class lines between him and Audrey for much of the series. It was a subtle reminder that the issue persisted for many in their time even though they were able to be together because of Hugh's elevation.
It was so nice to revisit Audrey and Hugh that I found myself picking up the first book in the series again. This series will always be a favorite.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the story opens, Audrey's brother-in-law from her former marriage shows up drunk at her house and she accidently touches his pocket watch, seeing a woman in a glass conservatory. She later realizes that Hugh was called away to investigate the death of the woman. This story is about class, wealthy, and the pressures to marry well to benefit family financially in this era. These themes were present in the entire series, as Hugh seemed unwilling to cross the class lines between him and Audrey for much of the series. It was a subtle reminder that the issue persisted for many in their time even though they were able to be together because of Hugh's elevation.
It was so nice to revisit Audrey and Hugh that I found myself picking up the first book in the series again. This series will always be a favorite.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Having returned to London for the holidays, newlyweds Hugh and Audrey Marsden, the Viscount and Viscountess Neatham, have only one thing on their minds: the impending arrival of their first child. Until one wintry night, when Bow Street’s Chief Magistrate summons Hugh to the carriage house of a member of parliament, where a dead woman has been discovered. It’s Hugh’s first investigation in months—and regrettably, the main suspect is his wife’s former brother-in-law, Tobias Sinclair. Audrey believes him when he insists he hasn’t killed Miss Penelope Harwood.
I was excited to read another High & Audrey story & it didn’t disappoint. It was like sitting down with old friends. The case is intriguing, Hugh is very protective of Audrey but Audrey is determined to find the truth. The secondary characters are all there & it was great to catch up with them & Sir plays an important part, I really hope Sir has his own series as he’s a wonderful character. There are a few suspects & some twists & turns as well as surprises. I’ve loved the whole series & loved this too
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
I was excited to read another High & Audrey story & it didn’t disappoint. It was like sitting down with old friends. The case is intriguing, Hugh is very protective of Audrey but Audrey is determined to find the truth. The secondary characters are all there & it was great to catch up with them & Sir plays an important part, I really hope Sir has his own series as he’s a wonderful character. There are a few suspects & some twists & turns as well as surprises. I’ve loved the whole series & loved this too
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
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October 17, 20265/6 stars I have never read this series by the author before but I love her other series so I was excited to check this out. I do think that I need to read at least the first in the series to get the totally introduction of the characters but I had no issues jumping in to this book and understanding things. Our mystery is solid, it is interesting with suspects and red herrings. I did not guess the who at all. This book has a bit of supernatural aspects with the ability to see visions when touching objects.
Every enjoyable and I need to read the others in this series!
Every enjoyable and I need to read the others in this series!
October 25, 2026
House of Peril by Cara Devlin
Bow Street Duchess #8
~ Catching up with old friends is always fun – especially when they are people I’ve grown to love – Audrey and Hugh are finally married and expecting their first child though they still have time to solve a murder mystery just before Christmas ~
What I liked:
* Audrey: happily married to Hugh, pregnant, loves her husband, hates being “confined” by her “condition”, curious, committed, caring, impulsive, possesses paranormal psychometric abilities, has much to look forward to
* Hugh: ex-principal Bow Street officer, Viscountcy acquired in a previous book, scandal in his past, good friend of Dr. Thornton, well-educated, eloquent, protective, intelligent, accepting, , married to Audrey, loves deeply, protective, might miss is Bow Street days & consults for them when asked
* Sir: born with the name Davy Given, a young man from the streets befriended and employed by Hugh as his assistant, savvy, capable, resourceful, intelligent, growing up quickly, provided a way out for his mother and sisters, has a bright future to look forward to
* Basil: Hugh’s valet, a snob on the surface but perhaps a marshmallow underneath
* The murder mystery and how it was solved
* Wondering if this is the last book in the series or if there will be more – and whether or not we will find out if the baby will be a boy or a girl
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about women being a “commodity” that were traded for security and alliances
* The murderer and poor excuse for it happening at all
* The loss of an innocent life and the impact it no doubt had on those who cared for her
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author and BookFunnel for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
Bow Street Duchess #8
~ Catching up with old friends is always fun – especially when they are people I’ve grown to love – Audrey and Hugh are finally married and expecting their first child though they still have time to solve a murder mystery just before Christmas ~
What I liked:
* Audrey: happily married to Hugh, pregnant, loves her husband, hates being “confined” by her “condition”, curious, committed, caring, impulsive, possesses paranormal psychometric abilities, has much to look forward to
* Hugh: ex-principal Bow Street officer, Viscountcy acquired in a previous book, scandal in his past, good friend of Dr. Thornton, well-educated, eloquent, protective, intelligent, accepting, , married to Audrey, loves deeply, protective, might miss is Bow Street days & consults for them when asked
* Sir: born with the name Davy Given, a young man from the streets befriended and employed by Hugh as his assistant, savvy, capable, resourceful, intelligent, growing up quickly, provided a way out for his mother and sisters, has a bright future to look forward to
* Basil: Hugh’s valet, a snob on the surface but perhaps a marshmallow underneath
* The murder mystery and how it was solved
* Wondering if this is the last book in the series or if there will be more – and whether or not we will find out if the baby will be a boy or a girl
What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about women being a “commodity” that were traded for security and alliances
* The murderer and poor excuse for it happening at all
* The loss of an innocent life and the impact it no doubt had on those who cared for her
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to the author and BookFunnel for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
October 24, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest installment of Hugh and Audrey as they solve yet another murder mystery. I just live the whole series so I was excited when I heard there was a new book.
This story takes place in between Taken to the Grave and The Lady’s Last Mistake. So if you have read the epilogue in Taken to the Grave you already know whether they have a boy or girl but I’m not going to spoil the surprise here. Also this is a shorter length of her usual books in the series so it’s a bit faster to read.
I have to admit this isn’t my favourite book of the series and I’ll tell you why. Mostly it was because Audrey is pregnant and Hugh is being very protective of her, which leads to several emotional *discussions* between them and also hurt feelings on both sides. Things do get sorted out eventually but it’s a bit of a rocky road for the newlyweds. So that changes the tenor of the story so it’s not as happy as the previous one.
We see Sir striking out on his own, and doing some excellent detective work. He really has a knack for this type of thing. Basil is as crotchety as always, and maybe even a touch more than usual! It’s always nice to see Thornton as well, particularly since I know what’s in store for him in the next book. (Wink wink)
I’m always a tiny bit amused at how often friends and relatives of the FMC and MMC in mystery books come under suspicion of murder. In this story, it is Tobias, the younger brother of Audrey’s first husband, Phillip. He narrowly escapes being charged due to Hugh, Audrey, Sir, Thornton and even Basil.
It was a good, solid story which I read through quickly. Well worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story takes place in between Taken to the Grave and The Lady’s Last Mistake. So if you have read the epilogue in Taken to the Grave you already know whether they have a boy or girl but I’m not going to spoil the surprise here. Also this is a shorter length of her usual books in the series so it’s a bit faster to read.
I have to admit this isn’t my favourite book of the series and I’ll tell you why. Mostly it was because Audrey is pregnant and Hugh is being very protective of her, which leads to several emotional *discussions* between them and also hurt feelings on both sides. Things do get sorted out eventually but it’s a bit of a rocky road for the newlyweds. So that changes the tenor of the story so it’s not as happy as the previous one.
We see Sir striking out on his own, and doing some excellent detective work. He really has a knack for this type of thing. Basil is as crotchety as always, and maybe even a touch more than usual! It’s always nice to see Thornton as well, particularly since I know what’s in store for him in the next book. (Wink wink)
I’m always a tiny bit amused at how often friends and relatives of the FMC and MMC in mystery books come under suspicion of murder. In this story, it is Tobias, the younger brother of Audrey’s first husband, Phillip. He narrowly escapes being charged due to Hugh, Audrey, Sir, Thornton and even Basil.
It was a good, solid story which I read through quickly. Well worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2026
I was pleased to discover author Cara Devlin’s book eight of the Bow Street Duchess Mystery series, entitled “House of Peril". I love this series! I love the characters - Viscountess Audrey Sinclair Marsden and Hugh Marsden, Viscount Neatham. They are an interesting pair who are both independent, intelligent, kind and dedicated to each other - as well as to finding justice. They work well as a "investigative" team and in this book, they again combine their special skills and gifts to solve a murder and clear the name of a family member.
Fortunately their "family" of friends and assistants are there to support Audrey and Hugh. I enjoy these secondary characters (Sir Grant, Basil), who really do add to the interest of the story and provide balance with the main characters.
The descriptions of the characters, their lives, their foibles and struggles, and also the well researched historical aspects of the story are fascinating and the author pulls in and immerses the reader completely into the story. The mystery has a twist to it and was also well written.
I have read all of the other novels in the series and recommend them as well as this one. I hope there will be further adventures of Hugh and Audrey, when life calms down for them again.
I give this a 4.5 stars. Well done and intriguing!
I received an advance, review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fortunately their "family" of friends and assistants are there to support Audrey and Hugh. I enjoy these secondary characters (Sir Grant, Basil), who really do add to the interest of the story and provide balance with the main characters.
The descriptions of the characters, their lives, their foibles and struggles, and also the well researched historical aspects of the story are fascinating and the author pulls in and immerses the reader completely into the story. The mystery has a twist to it and was also well written.
I have read all of the other novels in the series and recommend them as well as this one. I hope there will be further adventures of Hugh and Audrey, when life calms down for them again.
I give this a 4.5 stars. Well done and intriguing!
I received an advance, review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was wonderful to be back with Audrey and Hugh, and it was great to see supporting characters like Thornton, Sir, and Basil again! Although this book was short, the story felt full, and the investigation was intriguing. I also loved the Christmas cheer and familiar teasing between the guys at the end!
Due to Audrey’s advanced pregnancy, Hugh was snappy at the beginning of the book, and there was some tension between he and Audrey because she wanted to investigate while he wanted to protect her and told her to stay at home to rest due to her “condition.” Audrey, tired of everyone relegating her to the sidelines because of her pregnancy, insisted that she knew what she could handle and dove right in. Despite Hugh being the investigator, Audrey provided very valuable insight, and it was actually Sir’s deductions that carried the day! My only question is…why do people confront killers alone or when they figure out in conversation that someone is a killer…why do they keep questioning them instead of leaving and returning with backup? 😂 I guess they have to be in jeopardy somewhere in the story, lol.
Glad to see the crew again and hope this isn’t the last time!
Due to Audrey’s advanced pregnancy, Hugh was snappy at the beginning of the book, and there was some tension between he and Audrey because she wanted to investigate while he wanted to protect her and told her to stay at home to rest due to her “condition.” Audrey, tired of everyone relegating her to the sidelines because of her pregnancy, insisted that she knew what she could handle and dove right in. Despite Hugh being the investigator, Audrey provided very valuable insight, and it was actually Sir’s deductions that carried the day! My only question is…why do people confront killers alone or when they figure out in conversation that someone is a killer…why do they keep questioning them instead of leaving and returning with backup? 😂 I guess they have to be in jeopardy somewhere in the story, lol.
Glad to see the crew again and hope this isn’t the last time!
October 25, 2026
After enjoying the many adventures and dangers this couple has faced, I was very interested to learn about this new chapter in Hugh and Audrey’s lives. They are about to become parents, and with that comes mounting anxiety. Poor Viscount Neatham! Pregnancy certainly hadn't dampened Audrey’s investigative spirit; she kept Hugh and me constantly on edge with the perils she courted. I love how the author presented the mystery, keeping me guessing until the very end. When family members appear to be involved, judgment can easily become clouded. I was intrigued by these complex situations where evidence points in many directions especially when combined with a gift like Audrey’s. With Audrey eager to jump back into investigations, I am excited to see the baby’s arrival and the new direction the stories might take. I don’t want to miss a single one. Action, suspense, deception, multiple suspects, danger, family dynamics, arguments, and romance.
Review of advance copy
I was so happy to see there was a new book in this series; I had thought it ended. Audrey and Hugh are married and expecting a baby when Hugh is asked to investigate. Audrey spends the book realizing that Hugh is trying to shield her from investigating because of her "condition" and feels upset because she wants to be able to contribute. She pushes back to be included in ways that she is able, and Sir also joins in to help, as he is now living with them and learning to help Hugh with investigations. Audrey has a couple of visions, and they tie her former brother-in-law, Tobias, to the crime. Finding the real killer also means clearing his name before he is arrested.
This book was a very fast read and left enough storylines hanging that I anticipate another book to follow. Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for selecting me to read an advance copy.
This book was a very fast read and left enough storylines hanging that I anticipate another book to follow. Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for selecting me to read an advance copy.
October 24, 2026
Setting;.
Audrey & Hugh Marsden (Viscount and Vicontess Neatham) are happily anticipating the birth of their first child, when Hugh is suddenly pulled back into an investigation of a murder. His status as a Viscount is required, as the inquiries are to be made at the home of a member of Parliament, a delicate situation for the Magistrate to navigate. A young woman has been found dead in the MP’s mews and an investigation must be made.
Critique:
I enjoyed the focus on the detective work that was involved in solving the case. This time This time, Audrey’s special powers are minimally used, and the author explored more traditional avenues of inquiry (which I liked). The murderer was not at all obvious, and we are led down various rabbit holes looking for him and his motive. The unveiling was a complete surprise to me! That makes it a successful mystery in my opinion!.
I received an early copy from BookSirens. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.
Audrey & Hugh Marsden (Viscount and Vicontess Neatham) are happily anticipating the birth of their first child, when Hugh is suddenly pulled back into an investigation of a murder. His status as a Viscount is required, as the inquiries are to be made at the home of a member of Parliament, a delicate situation for the Magistrate to navigate. A young woman has been found dead in the MP’s mews and an investigation must be made.
Critique:
I enjoyed the focus on the detective work that was involved in solving the case. This time This time, Audrey’s special powers are minimally used, and the author explored more traditional avenues of inquiry (which I liked). The murderer was not at all obvious, and we are led down various rabbit holes looking for him and his motive. The unveiling was a complete surprise to me! That makes it a successful mystery in my opinion!.
I received an early copy from BookSirens. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.
Review of advance copy
House of Peril is Book 8 in A Bow Street Duchess Mystery by Cara Devlin. I have found that each book in this series just gets better with each book written. Hugh and Audrey have finally married and waiting for their first child. A woman is found dead and Audrey's ex sister in law is the main suspect. I believe that this author writes excellent characters and exciting cozy mysteries. Book 8 is the perfect time to jump into a good mystery. House of Peril would be on your TBR list. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I was excited when I read in Cara Devlin's newsletter that a new Bow Street Duchess Mystery would be available. House of Peril gives us an engrossing murder mystery-who killed Miss Penelope Harwood? Could Tobias have done it?
Audrey, very close to her confinement, insists on working with Hugh, who is now a consultant for the police. The relationship between this couple is the heart of this series. I loved how they navigated around the twists and revealed secrets. It was nice to see Sir and Basil.
The author sets a brisk pace and we are rewarded with an exciting conclusion. Fans of this series will not be disappointed. My wish is for more of Audrey and Hugh. If you have discovered the series with this book, I highly recommend you read the entire series, you will not be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Audrey, very close to her confinement, insists on working with Hugh, who is now a consultant for the police. The relationship between this couple is the heart of this series. I loved how they navigated around the twists and revealed secrets. It was nice to see Sir and Basil.
The author sets a brisk pace and we are rewarded with an exciting conclusion. Fans of this series will not be disappointed. My wish is for more of Audrey and Hugh. If you have discovered the series with this book, I highly recommend you read the entire series, you will not be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free, from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
December 1821. Hugh, Viscount Neatham, is summoned by Bow Street’s Chief Magistrate to the carriage house of Messinger M.P. where the body of a female, later identified as Miss Penelope Harwood, daughter to an impoverished baron, has been found. But what could be the possible motive for her death and by whom.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving a review
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its likeable and interesting main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksirens and am voluntarily leaving a review
Review of advance copy received from Author
A well written novel as have been all in this series. Hard to put down. Familiar characters were present as well as new ones who were quite interesting. Again great continued world building. A murder mystery of course but romance as well, plus humour, especially with Sir and Basil. Audrey and Hugh are settling into their new life. Look forward to the next book and the disruption to the household with a new baby.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2026
Review of advanced copy
It was so good to read about Hugh and Audrey again. I really enjoyed meeting most of my favourite secondary characters again. But the mystery was entirely new. A young lady is found dead in an MP’s house. Strict discretion is required. Hugh is called by his former boss to investigate.
Some friction arises when Audrey wants to help, particularly given her advanced stage of pregnancy. Hugh admits he is overprotective but he objects to her taking risks, and yet disregarding her extraordinary skills.
The plot is full of twists that make it difficult for the reader to put the book down.
It was so good to read about Hugh and Audrey again. I really enjoyed meeting most of my favourite secondary characters again. But the mystery was entirely new. A young lady is found dead in an MP’s house. Strict discretion is required. Hugh is called by his former boss to investigate.
Some friction arises when Audrey wants to help, particularly given her advanced stage of pregnancy. Hugh admits he is overprotective but he objects to her taking risks, and yet disregarding her extraordinary skills.
The plot is full of twists that make it difficult for the reader to put the book down.
Review of advance copy
Wow! This had me enthralled; I read it within a day (ok, it is not a full-length novel). Evenly paced and one commiserates with Audrey's frustration of her 'condition' causing her to be held back. Alongside Hugh and Audrey, other series characters - Thornton, Sir, and Basil - pitch in to help solve the crime. The investigation and its solution are credible. The epilogue adds a heart-warming touch as well as humor. Overall a very satisfying read.
I read a free advance copy; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I read a free advance copy; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 25, 2026
It was so nice to read about Audrey and Hugh. They are now married and expecting their first child and Hugh is very protective of his wife and unborn baby. Hugh is investigating a woman’s murder and one of the suspects is Audrey’s former brother-in-law from his first marriage. Of course, she defends him and must get involved in the investigation to clear his name. It was a very engaging read.
October 26, 2026
This was a wonderful short step back in to Hugh and Audrey's world. It was lovely to have another mystery to solve, and good to have all the side characters interact. My only complaint was that it was a novella rather than a full book, but still loved the flow of the writing, and it felt real and left a lovely warm feeling at the end.
A lovely addition to the set
A lovely addition to the set
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had missed stories with Hugh and Audrey, and her unique gift. In this story, Audrey is close to her confinement with the couples first child and Hugh is naturally very reluctant for anything to upset Audrey. But it's still Audrey, and she refuses to be sidelined when Hugh is called to a murder scene at the home of a friend of his former boss, the Bow Street magistrate. When her former brother in law is implicated, she's determined to prove his innocence. Dr. Grant Thornton is included in this investigation, which occurs two years prior to his happily ever. I enjoyed returning to the Marsden couples investigative prowess, in which Sir, Hugh's ward, plays a significant role.
October 24, 2026
It was such a nice surprise to get to return to these characters and watch them solve one more mystery.
October 26, 2026
I received an advanced copy of the book. It lived up to everything I expected. This is a story is mentioned in passing in Taken to the Grave. As with each of the Bow Street Duchess Mysteries, it takes both Hugh and Audrey to figure it out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
HOUSE OF PERIL--BOOK by --Cara Devlin--
I was thrilled to learn another book was to be published from the Bow Street Duchess series. If you enjoyed the previous books in the series and was sorry to see it end, I think you will definitely enjoy thls next book. All of my favorite characters are back Hugh, Audrey,Sir and Basil the valet. Of course there is a murder and Sir Gabriel request that Hugh conduct the investigation. Hugh and Audrey are happily married . It is an easy fun read and the plot moves at a good pace. Great writing feom Cara Devlin. It is a great evening read this fall, try it. I received an advanced reader copy and voluntarily give this review.
I was thrilled to learn another book was to be published from the Bow Street Duchess series. If you enjoyed the previous books in the series and was sorry to see it end, I think you will definitely enjoy thls next book. All of my favorite characters are back Hugh, Audrey,Sir and Basil the valet. Of course there is a murder and Sir Gabriel request that Hugh conduct the investigation. Hugh and Audrey are happily married . It is an easy fun read and the plot moves at a good pace. Great writing feom Cara Devlin. It is a great evening read this fall, try it. I received an advanced reader copy and voluntarily give this review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As they say, “another one in the books”. Yes. Cara did not disappoint. The mystery, the cooperation between the characters, their feelings towards each other, and crime solved. I’ve started reading the series again!
Review of advance copy
I have eagerly been waiting for this book since the author announced it was in the making! I could not wait to jump once more into Audrey's world!
As usual the story is well written and amazingly plotted, the characters featured perfectly (Sir and Basil I missed you!).
The only fault I could find was that the story was too short! And I hope that a new one will soon follow!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
As usual the story is well written and amazingly plotted, the characters featured perfectly (Sir and Basil I missed you!).
The only fault I could find was that the story was too short! And I hope that a new one will soon follow!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
Review of advance copy
Really enjoyed this book of the Bow Street Duchess - Audrey and her husband Hugh. Love her gift! Plus little Sir who helps them tremendously.
I have discovered that anything that Cara Devlin writes is definitely a must read.
Enjoy her characters, locations, and story line. She knows how to tell a story and make it real. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have discovered that anything that Cara Devlin writes is definitely a must read.
Enjoy her characters, locations, and story line. She knows how to tell a story and make it real. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was so nice to be reunited with Audrey, Hugh, Sir and Thornton again.
This special addition to the series was a very welcome surprise.
As always with a publication from Cara; the story was well written and the mystery engaging.
Hoping one day we will be able to relish the publication of stories about an adult Sir - I am sure his antics would be most enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This special addition to the series was a very welcome surprise.
As always with a publication from Cara; the story was well written and the mystery engaging.
Hoping one day we will be able to relish the publication of stories about an adult Sir - I am sure his antics would be most enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I truly enjoyed this addition to the Bow Street Duchess series. I devoured the book in less than 12 hours.
As always, the mystery was well written and it was the driver of the story. It was very nice to see Hugh and Audrey settled as a couple, with our other beloved characters in the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As always, the mystery was well written and it was the driver of the story. It was very nice to see Hugh and Audrey settled as a couple, with our other beloved characters in the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2026
House of Peril by Cara Devlin
Bow Street Duchess #8
~ It's always a pleasure to revisit familiar characters, especially those I've become rather attached to over the course of a series. Audrey and Hugh are finally married and preparing to welcome their first child, but that doesn't mean they've put their investigative interests aside! With Christmas approaching, there's still a murder to solve, and these two aren't quite ready to sit back and leave it to someone else.
What I liked:
Audrey: It's wonderful to see her happily married to Hugh and looking forward to motherhood. Of course, being pregnant doesn't mean she's suddenly content to sit quietly and behave herself! She remains inquisitive, caring, determined, and occasionally impulsive, with her psychometric abilities continuing to play an interesting part in her life. She's certainly not short of things to look forward to, even if she isn't entirely thrilled about the restrictions pregnancy brings.
Hugh: He's certainly had an interesting journey, from his days as a principal Bow Street officer to his present position as a Viscount. He's intelligent, articulate, well-educated, and wonderfully devoted to Audrey. His friendship with Dr. Thornton is another aspect I enjoy, as is his willingness to accept Audrey for exactly who she is. Protective husband that he is, he clearly loves her deeply. I sometimes wonder whether he misses his former Bow Street days, although he still gets the occasional opportunity to put his experience to use when they call on him for assistance.
Sir: Formerly Davy Given, this young man has developed into quite a capable assistant under Hugh's guidance. He's clever, streetwise, resourceful, and growing in confidence. I particularly like that Hugh has given him more than just employment; he's provided an opportunity for him to improve life for his mother and sisters as well. Sir has a promising future ahead of him, and I'm pleased to see how far he's come.
Basil: Hugh's valet is another character I enjoy. He has a rather superior, snobbish air about him, but I suspect there's a much softer and kinder fellow hiding underneath all that fussiness!
The mystery was entertaining, and I enjoyed following the investigation and seeing how everything was eventually brought together.
I'm curious to know whether this is the last book in the series or whether Audrey and Hugh have more adventures ahead of them. And naturally, I'd love to discover whether their little bundle of joy will be a boy or a girl!
What I didn't like:
The identity of the murderer and, more particularly, the reasoning behind the crime. I found the motivation rather unconvincing and wasn't entirely happy with how it was justified.
The death of an innocent person. It's always difficult to accept when someone loses their life unnecessarily, especially when considering the grief and lasting consequences for those left behind who cared about her.
Did I like this book? Yes!
Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I have already read all of her other series with Jasper and Leo and I’m in love with that series.
I enjoyed spending time with Audrey, Hugh, and the rest of the familiar cast once again. Seeing how their lives have progressed, particularly with a baby on the way, was a lovely part of the story. While I had a few reservations about certain aspects of the mystery, I was happy to accompany them on another adventure. I do hope there's more to come because I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters!
5 Stars!
Bow Street Duchess #8
~ It's always a pleasure to revisit familiar characters, especially those I've become rather attached to over the course of a series. Audrey and Hugh are finally married and preparing to welcome their first child, but that doesn't mean they've put their investigative interests aside! With Christmas approaching, there's still a murder to solve, and these two aren't quite ready to sit back and leave it to someone else.
What I liked:
Audrey: It's wonderful to see her happily married to Hugh and looking forward to motherhood. Of course, being pregnant doesn't mean she's suddenly content to sit quietly and behave herself! She remains inquisitive, caring, determined, and occasionally impulsive, with her psychometric abilities continuing to play an interesting part in her life. She's certainly not short of things to look forward to, even if she isn't entirely thrilled about the restrictions pregnancy brings.
Hugh: He's certainly had an interesting journey, from his days as a principal Bow Street officer to his present position as a Viscount. He's intelligent, articulate, well-educated, and wonderfully devoted to Audrey. His friendship with Dr. Thornton is another aspect I enjoy, as is his willingness to accept Audrey for exactly who she is. Protective husband that he is, he clearly loves her deeply. I sometimes wonder whether he misses his former Bow Street days, although he still gets the occasional opportunity to put his experience to use when they call on him for assistance.
Sir: Formerly Davy Given, this young man has developed into quite a capable assistant under Hugh's guidance. He's clever, streetwise, resourceful, and growing in confidence. I particularly like that Hugh has given him more than just employment; he's provided an opportunity for him to improve life for his mother and sisters as well. Sir has a promising future ahead of him, and I'm pleased to see how far he's come.
Basil: Hugh's valet is another character I enjoy. He has a rather superior, snobbish air about him, but I suspect there's a much softer and kinder fellow hiding underneath all that fussiness!
The mystery was entertaining, and I enjoyed following the investigation and seeing how everything was eventually brought together.
I'm curious to know whether this is the last book in the series or whether Audrey and Hugh have more adventures ahead of them. And naturally, I'd love to discover whether their little bundle of joy will be a boy or a girl!
What I didn't like:
The identity of the murderer and, more particularly, the reasoning behind the crime. I found the motivation rather unconvincing and wasn't entirely happy with how it was justified.
The death of an innocent person. It's always difficult to accept when someone loses their life unnecessarily, especially when considering the grief and lasting consequences for those left behind who cared about her.
Did I like this book? Yes!
Would I read more by this author? Most definitely! I have already read all of her other series with Jasper and Leo and I’m in love with that series.
I enjoyed spending time with Audrey, Hugh, and the rest of the familiar cast once again. Seeing how their lives have progressed, particularly with a baby on the way, was a lovely part of the story. While I had a few reservations about certain aspects of the mystery, I was happy to accompany them on another adventure. I do hope there's more to come because I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters!
5 Stars!
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