The Case of the Curate

by Mary Lancaster

287 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2026

About the author

Mary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.

Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.

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Reviews

[Janet]

A housemaid is murdered during Lord Chadbon’s country house party, it is his most convenient assessment that the curate did it. Rupert Grande is new to the neighbourhood, clearly disreputable, and he discovered the body in suspicious circumstances. Moreover, the curate’s discreet arrest ensures no scandal touches Chadbon or his important guests. However one of the guests Lady Kate Ambrose has known the curate for years, as they grew up on neighbouring estates. She knows that Rupert is innocent—at least of murder—and refuses to let the accusation stand. But then, no one else knows his true identity or grew up as his best friend.
The start of a new historical mystery series & a riveting start it was. I loved both Rupert & Kate & sparks flew between them but whilst I’d love for there to be a romance between them that would mean she’d need to become a widow. Kate is the central figure as she weeds out the truth about the murder & she also puts herself in danger. She’s intelligent, politically aware, sympathetic & determined. Rupert a younger son lived life to the full until he went to Belgium & saw first hand the aftermath of the Battle of Waterloo – the events changed him. It was an intriguing case with several suspects & I was left guessing until nearly the end. I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Lesley]

Fab Start to a New Series.
Curate Rupert Grande finds himself arrested for the murder of a pretty housemaid, having been found hovering over the body, with his hand outstretched towards the murder weapon. For political reasons an open and shut case with little fanfare is preferred and Mr Grande is new to the area and a nobody. Or is he? Childhood friend Lady Kate Ambrose knows differently but agrees to keep the secret of his title and powerful father, whilst they try to solve who the true murderer is.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachel]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

If all of the books in the series are as good as this one then we are in for a real literary treat! I only vaguely recall Rupert from the Duel series but I do not think knowing the part he played in those books is a pre-requisite for reading this book. There are references to his time in Belgium and how that changed his views on life which serve to explain how a playboy-of-sorts became a vicar and really wants to help people when given the opportunity. I immediately liked Kate and was so glad we got to know so much about her in this book. I was a little disappointed her marriage was not a happier one but loved to see how she was making the most of it by using her position in society to influence members of parliament. My favorite thing about this book was that it is mostly Kate doing the investigation and Rupert is really more of a supporting character. His knowledge of certain events does come in handy at the end when it is time to unmask the murderer, but he could not have done anything had it not been for Kate (and he acknowledges that, which is nice). The mystery itself is well developed and since we do not really know any of the characters it leaves them all open as potential killers. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series, especially to see how the author handles the romance aspects of Kate and Rupert's relationship.

[Elizabeth S]

A new series from Mary Lancaster, with a new curate in town. He's the incognito son of a marquis (Mary uses the correct French spelling), a former rake, who prefers a lowly position in a rural area after witnessing the horrors of Waterloo. Lady Ambrose is a childhood friend. She's married to a parliamentarian and is attending a gathering at another lord's estate, attempting to encourage support for a veteran's bill among the other men attending.

Dinah Fenn, a young, pregnant maid, is desperately looking for a husband before her condition is noticable. Rupert knew her from London and agreed to help her. Before that could happen, she's murdered, and Rupert is blamed. Lady Ambrose is determined to find the killer and clear his name.

Without a doubt, Mary Lancaster creates the most intriguing MMCs in all of Regency fictiondom. And the MFC is never a helpless airhead. She's intelligent and intrepid, and very much involved in solving the mystery. I'm not a fan of mysteries; I can't ever seem to follow the crumbs. But I love Mary Lancaster's writing and read her books for the characters.

[Petula]

This is a historical murder/ mystery that two childhood friends have to solve.
Our hero is blamed for something he didn't do. Our heroine decides to find the true culprit.
A political meeting is getting really complicated by the events happening in the house.
A dangerous person puts lives at risk.
I loved all the characters. The tension builds in all sorts of ways. A genuinely interesting story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Great fun.

[Isabella Montclair]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of The Case of the Curate.

The Case of the Curate is such a delightful combination of Regency romance, murder mystery, old friendships, secrets, and forbidden attraction.

When a housemaid is murdered during a country house party, it seems convenient for Lord Chadbon to blame the newly arrived curate, Rupert Grande. Rupert is already considered thoroughly disreputable, and the fact that he discovered the body makes him an easy target—especially when his arrest conveniently keeps suspicion away from Chadbon and his important guests.

But Kate knows Rupert is innocent. Not only does she know him better than anyone else, she also knows him from their childhood, when the two were once partners in mischief. Determined to clear his name, she begins investigating the murder herself and quickly discovers that the respectable people around her may be hiding far more than they want anyone to know.

I particularly love the setup of two people with a shared past being thrown back together under completely different circumstances. Rupert's transformation from an infamous rake into an apparently respectable curate is intriguing enough on its own, but adding an unsolved murder and an attraction that neither of them can openly acknowledge makes the premise even more compelling.

The country-house setting is perfect for this kind of mystery, too. Secrets, reputations, suspicious guests, hidden motives, and a murder that someone desperately wants kept quiet? It has all the ingredients for an entertaining historical mystery.

Mary Lancaster also seems to have found a lovely balance between the mystery and romance. The investigation gives the story suspense, while Kate and Rupert's complicated history provides the emotional tension—and I am especially intrigued by the idea of seeing their old friendship develop into something decidedly more improper.

A charming and intriguing start to The Irreverent Clergyman Mysteries, with a clever mystery, Regency atmosphere, childhood history, and a romance full of secrets and forbidden feelings. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a strong romantic thread.

[Anne]

The Case of the Curate by Mary Lancaster is a little different for Lancaster: a mystery. There was a new curate: Rupert Grande. He was a lord, but he kept that quiet. He was handsome and jovial and most people liked him. Some didn’t and some didn’t care. He ran into Dinah at the pub. He had known her earlier in his life and was happy to see her. She confided to him she was with child and there was no hope the father would marry her. He was gentry. Rupert thought on it and came up with a plan. He was to meet her in the orangery during a dinner party her employers were hosting. When he got there he was surprised to meet Lady Kate Ambrose. They had been friends as children. She knew he would wait for her in the orangery as he had when they were children, and there he was. They caught up and she returned to the party. The next time she saw him he was bending over the body of Dinah, who had a knife sticking out of her chest. Because of the political aspirations of the host, it was imperative that this be hushed up. The curate was nobody so they blamed it on him and put him in a cell.

Kate took it upon herself to investigate as she knew Rupert was innocent. She was clever and fearless...a terrific character. It was a clever plot, with the murderer being someone no one would suspect. Lancaster takes a dim view of men as half in the story were philanderers. Dinah had been the prey for several of them. It was going slowly until Kate, herself, was shot at. That seemed to convince everyone that Rupert was not the killer, as there would not be two. Very entertaining story with twists ans turns aplenty. It if the beginning of a new series. It will be interesting where it goes.

I was invited to read The Case of the Curious Curate by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #MaryLancaster #TheCaseOfTheCuriousCurate

[Jennifer]

Happy to see another mystery series by Mary Lancaster. It was clear from the first pages that Rupert Grande would not be a typical clergyman, as both the maid and Lady Ambrose remember his behavior as a child and young man, and he was wild and infamous. What they don't know is that his time traveling to the Battle of Waterloo changed him and helped him devote himself to caring for others. When the Maid is found murdered, Rupert is suspected because he is new and unknown and easy to pin the deed on to keep things quiet. Lady Ambrose will not allow this to stand and convinces Lord Chadbon to let her investigate to make sure they are correct so that there is no more scandal. The country house they are all staying at is hosting a group of people to discuss a future bill regarding returning soldiers, and it must go well and gather the support needed to pass. Lady Ambrose balances her position, helping to negotiate these talks while solving the mystery, and suspects almost everyone of being the culprit except for Rupert.

This was a delightful new series, and I am thankful to the publisher and NetGalley for selecting me to read an advanced copy.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis]

This is the start of an exciting new series by one of my favorite authors.
Lady Kate Ambrose is a political partner of an older politician Sir Ambrose. She is attending a house party where a political alliances could sway votes for her husband’s causes! She encounters the Curate who is actual her handsome witty, and clever childhood friend Mr. Rupert Grande. He is a younger son of a prominent Lord but does not want the local parishioners to know this!
They hit up to a lot of mischief as neighbors and children which certainly shows in this house party! There are secrets, and lots of cover ups of mistreated servants!
Dinah Finn one of the house maids has been quietly murdered and Lord Chadbon has hushed up and used the new Curate as the scapegoat! Chadbon is oblivious to Rupert’s family ties or the staunch ally on Kate aka Katy!
There are twists and turns and several suspects! What a page turner! Bravo well done! 4.5 stars
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley for my unbiased opinion!

[Pat Robinson]

I do love a good “who-done-it” mystery and this one is a great one. There are so many who could have been the villain-even the butler! Rupert is a man after my own heart…a rake who, after seeing REAL life, is trying to change his ways, only to have his past bite him. Kate is a politicians’s wife, but as the reader, not really sure what her feelings about her husband are Old friends ,they are caught up in a murder that will keep you guessing to the very end. I loved how the author hid the villain so very well, as well as their frustration over not being able to figure it out. I was (rightfully) angry at Rupert’s questionable imposition. One can feel their chemistry flittering about, but what will happen with Kate being married? Truly enjoyable and can’t wait for story #2!

I received this story for free and these are my own views.

[Anna Boliker]

A new cozy mystery series from Mary Lancaster! That is very good news.

The characters and their backgrounds are again not from the usual set of Regency mysteries, which makes the plot and the tensions between them all the more exciting. The sleuthing mode is more in the Silver & Grey style, but also- what possibilities are there at the house party where the guests are stuck in the mud? Nice touch with the goal and an intriguing premise for further relationship development (and there is sure to be one) that keeps the story going.

Looking forward to the future instalments.

Thanks netgalley for the arc. Opinions are my own.

[Cassandra]

I really loved the last mystery series I read by this author so I preordered this new series as fast as I could when I saw it come available. This series follows a new investigative duo. A Curate that is new to the area and his childhood friend that is now the wife of a politician. They meet again at a dinner party where she is there to advocate for her husbands bill. Murder ensues forcing them to work together to find the killer.

This had my favorite writing aspects of the previous series, the multiple POV not just of our MCs but the suspects as well.

I can't wait to read more and see how our curate ended up where he did.

6/6 stars

[Mary Hart]

5 stars

An excellent start to the series. As normal with Mary's books I rushed to finish it and now am reading it again leisurely. I remembered Rupert from the excellent Duel series so am glad he has a series of his own. Kate seems a delightful sleuthing companion and I am eager to learn her story and that of her husband. How long will I have to wait for episode two. I recommend this book and to be honest anything Mary writes !!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own

[Cri]

New series by Mary Lancaster, I could not let this book slip through my fingers!

And I was right for sure, I was a bit worried that it could be a bit too "preachy" for my taste, but on that count I have been proven wrong.

I liked the main characters, the strong willed Kate and the reformed Rupert, the plot was beautifully written, with all its twists and turns.

Cannot wait for the next installment in this brand new series!

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.

[Pamela Blatter]

First book in the new mystery series “Irreverent Clergyman”.
The author excels at drawing out the clues to a murder.
Lord Rupert is fulfilling the role of a Curate which is a change from his previously wild lifestyle.
Lady Kate Ambrose is married but remembers Rupert as a childhood friend.
When he is accused of the murder, Kate knows in her heart that he is innocent.
She helps to solve the mystery and defends Rupert.
Compelling with a twist and old secrets.
An extremely slow burn possibility as Kate is married.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.

[Anne-Mammy]

Delighted to read the first of a new Lancaster series. And what an interesting beginning it was. Rupert and Kate, the main protagonists are very engaging and I certainly look forward to reading more of their adventures. The weakest part of the story I felt was the political angle, but it was not enough to lose a star. One can imagine many other plots involving the heroes. I imagine we have not seen the last of the former soldier Salter and I look forward to seeing more of Kate’s husband or Rupert’s father Lord Winster.
Keep writing Ms Lancaster please!

[Amy]

When Rupert is found leaning over the dead body of a comely housemaid, he is arrested for her murder. Luckily his old neighbor and friend Kate is a guest at the house where the murder occurred. Together they work to clear his name and find out who is behind the murder. This is the first book in a series; I look forward to the next book. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.

[Kathy]

Lancaster, having wrapped up her wonderful Silver and Gray series (*sob*), is clearly starting a new mystery series here. The romance is deliciously slow burn, the mystery is actually quite twisty, and I love the characters. Rupert is fabulous as a rake sort-of reformed and his relationship with Kate clearly has a long history ahead. The worst thing about this book is that I Want The Second Book Now. A wonderful series start.

[Jill]

Sometimes you read a book that is so unique and different that it amazes you. This book was that for me. This was a case like nothing I'd ever read before. The characters were full of surprises. I was sure I knew who the killer was and was completely wrong! There's a touch of romance, but it's also so unlikely to ever happen. I'm left with wanting to read the next case just to see what will happen next. I heartily recommend this book!

[Alicia Marsland]

an interesting plot and fun characters

I like the author and I read several of the precursors to this book, and enjoyed the insertion of the not totally serious clergyman. Now he’s apparently had his moment of revelation and is trying to be a better man which I always like in a character. I guessed the culprit but then I guess nearly everybody was the culprit so that doesn’t really count. I think you will enjoy this book.

[Jeannie Flynn]

a little melancholy

Like the pain of missing an opportunity, but only just realizing far after the fact. Mary Lancaster is in fine form with this house party mystery, and while the ins and outs are a bit convoluted, our Curate and his childhood friend eventually discover the demented soul who caused the mayhem!

[Susan]

A great start to a new Regency mystery series! An intrepid heroine and a more-or-less reformed rake. See my review at Reading World

[Elle Ann]

Cute cozy murder mystery where the hot new curate teams up with his childhood friend (in an interesting marriage) to clear his name and solve a crime. Quick, easy, breezy, and ready for more hot ex rake Rupert.

Thanks netgalley and the publishers for the arc

[Carol]

This was an excellent introduction to this authors new series. Kate Lady Ambrose is attending a political party on behalf of her husband to help get support for a Bill to promote the soldiers returning from the battle of Waterloo when she meets at dinner a childhood friend who is now the local curate. They meet in the orangery to catch up. He stays to meet someone he wants to help she returns and meanwhile the person he was due to meet a serving maid a the house is found murdered Rupert the curate is the most obvious culprit and is arrested. This is the story of Kate 's attempts to find the truth. I love the idea that Rupert is really a nobleman who after serving as a clergyman at Waterloo want to attend for his previous life of waste.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for my arc copy