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Dottie Manderson Mysteries #1
Night and Day
What could be more sinister than a deserted street late at night? Add a young woman, alone, coming back from the theatre, rain, and streetlamps that fail to light the shadows… November 1933. Dottie Manderson, a young socialite from a wealthy family has been out for the evening with a friend and is on her way to her married sister’s house in the middle of London.Preoccupied, Dottie gives the cabbie the wrong house number and has to walk the remaining distance to her sister’s home. She stumbles upon the body of a man lying on the ground. She thinks he is drunk, but then sees the blood pouring from him onto the paving stones and into the gutter. As she waits for help to arrive, she holds the man’s hand and tries to get him to tell her what happened. Nothing can be done for the poor fellow, and Dottie is left shocked by the violence of the attack, especially when she realises she knows the man’s widow.Dottie needs to know who could do such a terrible thing. Even though a particular, very annoying, but admittedly good-looking young policeman is looking into the case officially, she feels compelled to carry out her own amateur investigation into this tragic and mysterious death. Who would want to kill a man in such a way? Could there be a clue in the words of the song he sang just before he died? And why is everyone so upset about her new cape?Packed full of twists, a couple of unexpected upturns, Night and Day is a page-turner of a whodunit! Readers just love Dottie Manderson!Reviewers ‘Dottie Manderson is a gorgeous character…A great read and I’m looking forward to catching up with more of Dottie.’ Katie in Scotland ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️‘Five stars! Delightfully entertaining, rich characters, suspenseful, charming all in one; anxiously awaiting the next one!’ Amazon reviewer ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️‘I received this on a Friday and could not put it down - goodbye housework - not for too long though as I was so enthralled I finished it Saturday evening.’ Amazon reviewer‘I absolutely loved it. I read the whole thing in a just two sittings... I felt like I was there with them.'Extract from Night and Dottie Manderson mysteries book 1:A sound came to Dottie’s ears. A soft shushing sort of sound but almost melodic. Her eyes, growing accustomed to the darkness, made out a shape on the pavement not ten yards ahead. Her heart gave an odd lurch, as if a cold hand gripped it.The sound came again. A little louder, a little more insistent. It sounded almost like…There was someone—a man—lying on the pavement. She felt a little shimmer of fear. Could it be a drunk? Perhaps she ought to step into the road, walk round him very carefully, keeping her distance.The head moved very slightly. His face was a pale oval in the dim lamplight. And she saw that the lips moved too. It was him making that odd noise. So it was a drunk, after all. He was singing to himself in a soft sibilant whisper. Her ear caught the rough melody of it, and even then, just as she saw the blood on his shirt-front, one part of her mind was saying, I know that song.She forgot her fears and ran to his side.‘What happened? Are you all right?’ But it was all too obvious he was not all right.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2016
303 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Caron Allan
66 books57 followersI was born in Kent, England and then moved all over the South of Britain before spending five years in Brisbane, Australia. I'm now living back in Britain, in Derbyshire, where Jane Austen's Mr Darcy came from. I haven't met him yet, but I cling to the dream. I mainly write mysteries and crime but I sometimes dabble in other genres, to little effect.
Like many writers, I have always wanted to write stories. I can remember announcing this to my mother when I was eight years old. I seem to remember she wasn't overly impressed. Sigh.
I started reading adventure stories and mysteries for children when I was around 7 or 8, and graduated to Agatha Christie and Patricia Wentworth (my fave) when around 9 or 10. I have never looked back.
I wrote my first novel Ghosts! Ghosts! Ghosts! in 1970. Sadly no longer available due to my mum keeping it in a drawer with my old school books, a knitted bookmark, and a tea-cosy I made. I do, however, still have a picture of the self-made cover for the book:
Sadly Canva wasn't around in those days so I had to make do with the back of a cereal packet...
Like many writers I am surrounded by cats most of the time, not necessarily my own. I love listening to music, which often inspires my writing, and I love learning languages, which all get muddled in my head, and emerge in single mixed sentence in times of need, ie 'Vielen dank, ich liebe bardzo molte bene este livres de Mysteriosa, dobranoc och ursäkta.'
I have often tried writing other types of fiction and non-fiction, but I always get bored and throw in a murder, so I have given into my inner nature and now devote myself mainly to killing people. On the page, of course.
When not plotting how to kill people, I can often be found trawling the aisles of my local grocery stores in pursuit of everyday items with lethal potential. Other interests include literary studies, history, reading about poisons, researching psychoses and serial killers, cooking from 'recipes', growing 'herbs' and digging deep holes in the garden. I always assumed no 'real' publisher would be interested in my work, so self-published my first eBook in the Friendship can be Murder trilogy, Criss Cross, in 2013 and the follow-up, Cross Check in 2014. The third book of the Friendship can be Murder Trilogy, Check Mate, appeared in February 2016.
Also In 2016, I introduced my new murder mystery series set in London in the 1930s. These are very much of the classic Golden Age style, and feature amateur sleuth Dottie Manderson and police officer William Hardy. The first book was Night and Day: a Dottie Manderson mystery. Book 2 is The Mantle of God: a Dottie Manderson mystery. In April 2018, the third book in the Dottie series, a novella Scotch Mist was published and followed in November 2018 by a full-length novel called The Last Perfect Summer of Richard Dawlish. 2019 saw the publication of book 5 in the Dottie Manderson series, called The Thief of St Martins, with book 6, The Spy Within appearing in 2020. Book 7 Rose Petals and White Lace is scheduled for release in 2022 as is the first book in a new series set in the 'swinging sixties' and entitled the Miss Gascoigne mysteries. Book 1 will be called A Meeting With Murder. If you're interested in finding out more, please take a look at my blog (listed below) for sneak peeks and news.
www.caronallanfiction.com
I also released a new stand-alone full-length novel called Easy Living: a story about life after death, after death, after death. It's a little bit paranormal-type fantasy, a little bit romance, a little bit mystery. I love stories that cross generic boundaries and have a broad reach. Maybe try it out?
Please say hello on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caronsbooks/
or Twitter: https://twitter.com/caron_allan
I'm also on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Thanks for dropping by!
Like many writers, I have always wanted to write stories. I can remember announcing this to my mother when I was eight years old. I seem to remember she wasn't overly impressed. Sigh.
I started reading adventure stories and mysteries for children when I was around 7 or 8, and graduated to Agatha Christie and Patricia Wentworth (my fave) when around 9 or 10. I have never looked back.
I wrote my first novel Ghosts! Ghosts! Ghosts! in 1970. Sadly no longer available due to my mum keeping it in a drawer with my old school books, a knitted bookmark, and a tea-cosy I made. I do, however, still have a picture of the self-made cover for the book:
Sadly Canva wasn't around in those days so I had to make do with the back of a cereal packet...
Like many writers I am surrounded by cats most of the time, not necessarily my own. I love listening to music, which often inspires my writing, and I love learning languages, which all get muddled in my head, and emerge in single mixed sentence in times of need, ie 'Vielen dank, ich liebe bardzo molte bene este livres de Mysteriosa, dobranoc och ursäkta.'
I have often tried writing other types of fiction and non-fiction, but I always get bored and throw in a murder, so I have given into my inner nature and now devote myself mainly to killing people. On the page, of course.
When not plotting how to kill people, I can often be found trawling the aisles of my local grocery stores in pursuit of everyday items with lethal potential. Other interests include literary studies, history, reading about poisons, researching psychoses and serial killers, cooking from 'recipes', growing 'herbs' and digging deep holes in the garden. I always assumed no 'real' publisher would be interested in my work, so self-published my first eBook in the Friendship can be Murder trilogy, Criss Cross, in 2013 and the follow-up, Cross Check in 2014. The third book of the Friendship can be Murder Trilogy, Check Mate, appeared in February 2016.
Also In 2016, I introduced my new murder mystery series set in London in the 1930s. These are very much of the classic Golden Age style, and feature amateur sleuth Dottie Manderson and police officer William Hardy. The first book was Night and Day: a Dottie Manderson mystery. Book 2 is The Mantle of God: a Dottie Manderson mystery. In April 2018, the third book in the Dottie series, a novella Scotch Mist was published and followed in November 2018 by a full-length novel called The Last Perfect Summer of Richard Dawlish. 2019 saw the publication of book 5 in the Dottie Manderson series, called The Thief of St Martins, with book 6, The Spy Within appearing in 2020. Book 7 Rose Petals and White Lace is scheduled for release in 2022 as is the first book in a new series set in the 'swinging sixties' and entitled the Miss Gascoigne mysteries. Book 1 will be called A Meeting With Murder. If you're interested in finding out more, please take a look at my blog (listed below) for sneak peeks and news.
www.caronallanfiction.com
I also released a new stand-alone full-length novel called Easy Living: a story about life after death, after death, after death. It's a little bit paranormal-type fantasy, a little bit romance, a little bit mystery. I love stories that cross generic boundaries and have a broad reach. Maybe try it out?
Please say hello on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caronsbooks/
or Twitter: https://twitter.com/caron_allan
I'm also on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Thanks for dropping by!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
June 14, 2017
This is a wonderfully written cozy mystery set in the 1930's in London where a woman stumbles upon a dying man on her way home. The plot was great with twists and turns that I didn't see coming and I loved the well rounded characters especially the slow burn between the Detective and Dottie so can't wait to see how this unfolds! Also I found that I could really picture the style of living in the 1930's as it was so well described and sounds wonderful. This was a very intriguing detective mystery with well written, funny and charming characters and set up well for the next book in the series which I can't wait for, definitely recommend!
February 27, 2021
A story took place in the 1930s, cozy mystery fans may find this book enjoyable. There wasn't much investigation being done.
Most of the story was about nineteen year old Dottie trying to find a suitable husband. I loved her dry sense of humour. She stumbled on a dying man when she was on her way to her sister. She tried to find out what actually happened to the man.
The story was well written but I need some actions. It was so similar to the historical romance that we read sometimes but the author set it in 1930s instead.
I've received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via VoraciousReadersOnly.
Most of the story was about nineteen year old Dottie trying to find a suitable husband. I loved her dry sense of humour. She stumbled on a dying man when she was on her way to her sister. She tried to find out what actually happened to the man.
The story was well written but I need some actions. It was so similar to the historical romance that we read sometimes but the author set it in 1930s instead.
I've received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via VoraciousReadersOnly.
December 16, 2017
Sub-titled ‘A Dottie Manderson Mystery’, this is the first in a series, and introduces the eponymous heroin through a fascinating tale set in England in the 1930s.
This ‘cosy crime’ novel, with its measure of burgeoning romance, is a good read; something to entertain and satisfy in front of a burning log fire in the dark days of winter.
The main protagonists are sympathetically drawn; a down-on-his-luck policeman, and a young woman who would previously have been described as a debutante and who works as a part time model in the fashion trade. The other characters are all equally well put together by this author who clearly likes her players as varied and interesting people.
For me, as an elderly chap, there was a fraction too much of the dress and society scene, but many women enjoy such details and they certainly didn’t mar my enjoyment.
The story begins with an intriguing discovery that not only introduces the crime but cleverly sheds significant insight into the character of the heroine. She’s shy but remarkably determined and courageous. Her overbearing mother is an ever-present reminder of days thankfully now past.
The settings and period detail are excellent and give the book a real feel of the age and the differing strata of society as they were back then.
The denouement is swift, tense and satisfying. And the tease of the final chapter opens a whole range of possibilities for the further adventures of a young woman who seeks a life entirely at odds with that envisaged for her by her ambitious mother. An enjoyable read.
This ‘cosy crime’ novel, with its measure of burgeoning romance, is a good read; something to entertain and satisfy in front of a burning log fire in the dark days of winter.
The main protagonists are sympathetically drawn; a down-on-his-luck policeman, and a young woman who would previously have been described as a debutante and who works as a part time model in the fashion trade. The other characters are all equally well put together by this author who clearly likes her players as varied and interesting people.
For me, as an elderly chap, there was a fraction too much of the dress and society scene, but many women enjoy such details and they certainly didn’t mar my enjoyment.
The story begins with an intriguing discovery that not only introduces the crime but cleverly sheds significant insight into the character of the heroine. She’s shy but remarkably determined and courageous. Her overbearing mother is an ever-present reminder of days thankfully now past.
The settings and period detail are excellent and give the book a real feel of the age and the differing strata of society as they were back then.
The denouement is swift, tense and satisfying. And the tease of the final chapter opens a whole range of possibilities for the further adventures of a young woman who seeks a life entirely at odds with that envisaged for her by her ambitious mother. An enjoyable read.
June 9, 2021
3.16 stars
I had high expectations for Night and Day as the setting seems right up my Alley, England in the 1930s, a remarkable young and independent main female character and a victim that uses his last breath to deliver a crypt message.
The plot drew me in. Unfortunately, the execution wasn't satisfying. I believe it comes down to personal taste, my number one pet peeve is when an author doesn't play fair with the solution, and I felt Allan dropped major balls here. I'm sorry if this sounds vague; I don't want to give away spoilers!
Even though I felt that the atmosphere relied heavily on dialogue, and there were too many plot conveniences, I enjoyed many things in Night and Day: It is a quick read, the main characters are delightful, and I can see them growing as the series progresses. I might give Allan and Dottie another chance and pick up the next book in the series. If she plays fair with the solution in that book, I'll keep investing in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers.
I had high expectations for Night and Day as the setting seems right up my Alley, England in the 1930s, a remarkable young and independent main female character and a victim that uses his last breath to deliver a crypt message.
The plot drew me in. Unfortunately, the execution wasn't satisfying. I believe it comes down to personal taste, my number one pet peeve is when an author doesn't play fair with the solution, and I felt Allan dropped major balls here. I'm sorry if this sounds vague; I don't want to give away spoilers!
Even though I felt that the atmosphere relied heavily on dialogue, and there were too many plot conveniences, I enjoyed many things in Night and Day: It is a quick read, the main characters are delightful, and I can see them growing as the series progresses. I might give Allan and Dottie another chance and pick up the next book in the series. If she plays fair with the solution in that book, I'll keep investing in the series!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers.
October 22, 2017
Well written novel and a new author for me.
Interesting read. I plan to read the second book immediately. I was pleased that it was free of sex and graphic violence.
Interesting read. I plan to read the second book immediately. I was pleased that it was free of sex and graphic violence.
August 23, 2021
Writing an honest review after receiving a free copy.
In 1930s a 19 year old lady,found a dying man tried to help but it was too late ...all the book go around her ,so it's not a detective book as it social, romance book..
Loved how romamce started to bloom in different ways comparing to other books, usually hero and heroine either starts by hating each other or feeling sudden love , while here romance started from one side and didn't transcend to the other ....still lots of mysteries to avail as the book somehow have an open ending ...can't wait to read the next book.
In 1930s a 19 year old lady,found a dying man tried to help but it was too late ...all the book go around her ,so it's not a detective book as it social, romance book..
Loved how romamce started to bloom in different ways comparing to other books, usually hero and heroine either starts by hating each other or feeling sudden love , while here romance started from one side and didn't transcend to the other ....still lots of mysteries to avail as the book somehow have an open ending ...can't wait to read the next book.
January 3, 2022
Very nice cosy read. The mystery moves along and kept me guessing so that was good!
August 22, 2022
I'm a fan of historical romances and cozy mysteries, but sadly this one did not live up to my expectations. Quite the opposite, in fact. I found it really difficult to finish.
The beginning is promising with the heroine stumbling upon a murder victim but then literally for the most part of the book nothing interesting happens.
The heroine carries on with her life, goes to dinner with her suitors or sits through boring tea parties. I found myself skipping a lot of paragraphs. Up until at least 60% of the book there is no development in the murder mystery and then in the end things really start to go crazy. The climax of the story felt so absurd and over the top. I was really dissatisfied with the investigation and the weak motive and background story of the victim and all.
The romance part is underwhelming as well. The two characters have literally no chemistry. They don't even interact that much apart from him looking at her when she is with other men and him cursing at her. Really not my cup of tea...
The beginning is promising with the heroine stumbling upon a murder victim but then literally for the most part of the book nothing interesting happens.
The heroine carries on with her life, goes to dinner with her suitors or sits through boring tea parties. I found myself skipping a lot of paragraphs. Up until at least 60% of the book there is no development in the murder mystery and then in the end things really start to go crazy. The climax of the story felt so absurd and over the top. I was really dissatisfied with the investigation and the weak motive and background story of the victim and all.
The romance part is underwhelming as well. The two characters have literally no chemistry. They don't even interact that much apart from him looking at her when she is with other men and him cursing at her. Really not my cup of tea...
February 1, 2022
When socialite Dottie Manderson finds the body of man outside her sister’s home, she is shocked. Dottie feels compelled to determine what happened to the man, particularly after she realizes she has a connection to him through his widow. Can Dottie discover who killed him or will she become the next victim?
This was an enjoyable cozy read. The characters are likeable, and the setting is unique and interesting. I enjoyed the premise and appreciated the author’s writing style to “age” the text to sound as though they were in the 1930s.
The mystery is intriguing and engaging, as is the writing style. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this fun story!
This was an enjoyable cozy read. The characters are likeable, and the setting is unique and interesting. I enjoyed the premise and appreciated the author’s writing style to “age” the text to sound as though they were in the 1930s.
The mystery is intriguing and engaging, as is the writing style. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this fun story!
November 21, 2018
Set in the 1930s, Night and Day introduces us to Caron Allan's heroine Dottie Manderson, a London society girl of not yet twenty. Coming home from a theatre performance of The Gay Divorce starring Fred Astaire, Dottie stumbles across the singing figure of a dying man, as one does. And as one does, Dottie then makes it her business to discover who and why he was murdered.
The official police investigation is actually entrusted to the newly-promoted Inspector William Hardy, a thoroughly dishy chap who's unfortunately had to come down from Oxford because his father lost the family's money in the Wall Street Crash. Being a mere policeman makes him unsuitable as a companion for our Dottie – in the eyes of Dottie's mother in particular, but even to an extent for Dottie herself. As a result there's only one way this particular story is going to end at some point in the future. This is, after all, crime fiction written in the style of the golden era.
The case itself sees Dottie and Inspector Bill simultaneously following similar lines of inquiry, although Dottie herself is at points under suspicion, too. Along the way we're led through a series of clues picked up at balls, Christmas parties, formal visits to other ladies, and even shopping for clothes. Dottie is nosey in the extreme, but we'll let her off with that. The book comes to an excellent climax.
So there's the odd bit where credibility has to be a little elastic, but this is Golden Age-style fiction, so anything goes. And to be fair, Agatha Christie managed one book where the victim was murdered by everyone present, and another where the murderer killed everyone present including himself. And this book is seriously harmless fun: blood without gore, while the only sex present contains coal brought in by the servants. Ideal for readers of a nervous dispostition, but there's enough to interest me in reading another one, too.
The official police investigation is actually entrusted to the newly-promoted Inspector William Hardy, a thoroughly dishy chap who's unfortunately had to come down from Oxford because his father lost the family's money in the Wall Street Crash. Being a mere policeman makes him unsuitable as a companion for our Dottie – in the eyes of Dottie's mother in particular, but even to an extent for Dottie herself. As a result there's only one way this particular story is going to end at some point in the future. This is, after all, crime fiction written in the style of the golden era.
The case itself sees Dottie and Inspector Bill simultaneously following similar lines of inquiry, although Dottie herself is at points under suspicion, too. Along the way we're led through a series of clues picked up at balls, Christmas parties, formal visits to other ladies, and even shopping for clothes. Dottie is nosey in the extreme, but we'll let her off with that. The book comes to an excellent climax.
So there's the odd bit where credibility has to be a little elastic, but this is Golden Age-style fiction, so anything goes. And to be fair, Agatha Christie managed one book where the victim was murdered by everyone present, and another where the murderer killed everyone present including himself. And this book is seriously harmless fun: blood without gore, while the only sex present contains coal brought in by the servants. Ideal for readers of a nervous dispostition, but there's enough to interest me in reading another one, too.
March 27, 2021
I received a copy of this book through The Voracious Readers Only Scheme…
The blurb was the first thing that made me interested in reading this book. It describes a murder mystery, which is something that I have always been interested in reading about. However when I began reading the book, in my opinion I would say that the main focus is definitely on the romances of the main female protagonist - Dottie. To begin with this did disappoint me slightly as this isn’t a genre that I would usually choose to read but as I read on I began to fall in love with Dottie as a character. She is just such a likeable character that you can’t help but want to read on in the hope that she finds exactly what it is that she is looking for - romance. I think the book is well written and would appeal to someone who likes either mystery or romance, even better if you like the two of them together! I do feel like the blurb could have perhaps focused slightly more on the romantic tendencies of the novel in order to stop any confusion as to which genre it falls into. I wouldn’t say that I was hooked from the very beginning of the novel as I do think this was a slow burner, and that you had to learn more about the characters before you felt invested enough in their story in order to want to read on and find out the next chapter. It was lovely to see two such strong female characters and to see them grow throughout the novel and especially at the time that the novel was set, especially as the focus from the parents seemed to be that they should find a husband as soon as possible in order to be looked after. Shortly after starting this book I wasn’t sure that it was something I would usually choose to read, however after reading on further I have decided that I would like to read the next in the series due to enjoying the romantic and mystery genres running together throughout the story.
The blurb was the first thing that made me interested in reading this book. It describes a murder mystery, which is something that I have always been interested in reading about. However when I began reading the book, in my opinion I would say that the main focus is definitely on the romances of the main female protagonist - Dottie. To begin with this did disappoint me slightly as this isn’t a genre that I would usually choose to read but as I read on I began to fall in love with Dottie as a character. She is just such a likeable character that you can’t help but want to read on in the hope that she finds exactly what it is that she is looking for - romance. I think the book is well written and would appeal to someone who likes either mystery or romance, even better if you like the two of them together! I do feel like the blurb could have perhaps focused slightly more on the romantic tendencies of the novel in order to stop any confusion as to which genre it falls into. I wouldn’t say that I was hooked from the very beginning of the novel as I do think this was a slow burner, and that you had to learn more about the characters before you felt invested enough in their story in order to want to read on and find out the next chapter. It was lovely to see two such strong female characters and to see them grow throughout the novel and especially at the time that the novel was set, especially as the focus from the parents seemed to be that they should find a husband as soon as possible in order to be looked after. Shortly after starting this book I wasn’t sure that it was something I would usually choose to read, however after reading on further I have decided that I would like to read the next in the series due to enjoying the romantic and mystery genres running together throughout the story.
June 19, 2021
I received a free copy of Night and Day by Caron Allan via Voracious Readers Only, in return for an honest review.
Most mysteries I pick up to read are just that: mysteries. But I enjoy a cozy mystery once in a while. This cozy story is about a 19-year-old woman, Dottie, in 1930s England. The adults are still trying to live in class society, while the younger set, including Dottie and her sister, are busting out of the chains. Dottie has spent the evening at the theater with a date and is on her way to her sister’s home, where the sister and husband are holding a party. On her way there she comes across a man dying on the sidewalk. He’s been stabbed, but instead of telling Dottie and others who stabbed him, he sings a song from the current show at the theater.
Dottie decides to find who killed the man and starts on her own amateur investigation. During her search she comes across a possible cult or sect of women who consider Esther of the Old Testament as their Queen and wear gold wraps. Hmmmm.
The book starts off strong, but the story goes on and on, and on and on. There are a couple of love interests, a police inspector whose family has lost money, a broken heart, a pregnancy—so much “stuff” in the middle that I forgot I was reading a mystery. A few things also took me out of the story, including grammatical mistakes and the inspector announcing his promotion a few chapters before being told of his promotion. It’s like the chapters were reordered but not reread to make sure transitions still worked.
It’s not a bad book. In the end, though, I would have preferred more mystery and less romances or almost romances.
Most mysteries I pick up to read are just that: mysteries. But I enjoy a cozy mystery once in a while. This cozy story is about a 19-year-old woman, Dottie, in 1930s England. The adults are still trying to live in class society, while the younger set, including Dottie and her sister, are busting out of the chains. Dottie has spent the evening at the theater with a date and is on her way to her sister’s home, where the sister and husband are holding a party. On her way there she comes across a man dying on the sidewalk. He’s been stabbed, but instead of telling Dottie and others who stabbed him, he sings a song from the current show at the theater.
Dottie decides to find who killed the man and starts on her own amateur investigation. During her search she comes across a possible cult or sect of women who consider Esther of the Old Testament as their Queen and wear gold wraps. Hmmmm.
The book starts off strong, but the story goes on and on, and on and on. There are a couple of love interests, a police inspector whose family has lost money, a broken heart, a pregnancy—so much “stuff” in the middle that I forgot I was reading a mystery. A few things also took me out of the story, including grammatical mistakes and the inspector announcing his promotion a few chapters before being told of his promotion. It’s like the chapters were reordered but not reread to make sure transitions still worked.
It’s not a bad book. In the end, though, I would have preferred more mystery and less romances or almost romances.
September 26, 2020
Even though the pace was rather slow, I enjoyed the story with its various facets. It's definitely a cozy; a crime is committed at the beginning and seems almost forgotten at times. The story is mainly about the young socialite (and only witness), Dottie. I enjoyed her interactions with her sister + best friend, Flora, and reading about their social life in 1930 England.
Dottie, with Flora's help and support, manages their snobbish, domineering mother and easy-going father (who remind me a lot of Mr & Mrs Bennett from Pride & Prejudice.) Her mother scolds her for getting involved, declaring that "it didn't do a young woman any good at all to be mixed up with dead bodies. No doubt people would talk. Her reputation would be in tatters. Next time...step right round and keep going." But Dottie didn't, and now she's involved with a police investigation -- which no decent girl should be. Worse yet, she's ruined her good dress.
She and Flora try to do some sleuthing themselves, interwoven with Dottie's affairs of the heart and her mother's attempts to get her married to someone suitable. Meanwhile, for Inspector Hardy the investigation moves at a snail's pace and so do his hopes of impressing Dottie. An easy, congenial read, mostly likeable characters with proper morals, nothing too blood-curdling.
Dottie, with Flora's help and support, manages their snobbish, domineering mother and easy-going father (who remind me a lot of Mr & Mrs Bennett from Pride & Prejudice.) Her mother scolds her for getting involved, declaring that "it didn't do a young woman any good at all to be mixed up with dead bodies. No doubt people would talk. Her reputation would be in tatters. Next time...step right round and keep going." But Dottie didn't, and now she's involved with a police investigation -- which no decent girl should be. Worse yet, she's ruined her good dress.
She and Flora try to do some sleuthing themselves, interwoven with Dottie's affairs of the heart and her mother's attempts to get her married to someone suitable. Meanwhile, for Inspector Hardy the investigation moves at a snail's pace and so do his hopes of impressing Dottie. An easy, congenial read, mostly likeable characters with proper morals, nothing too blood-curdling.
February 2, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I received a copy from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review and I am so glad I did. I absolutely loved it. I read the whole thing is a just two sittings, it was so easy to lose myself in it that I found I read well into the night. This is a wonderfully written cosy murder mystery, the plot was cleverly laid out to keep you guessing. My favourite type of book is a clever murder mystery and I also love historical storylines so to find this book offered both elements was a real added bonus. The story is set in the 1930s in England and the author captures the time and setting perfectly, I felt like I was there with them. The descriptive nature of the book was excellent at accurately setting the scene and the period details gave the book a real feel of the age and all the differing layers of society that existed back then. I thoroughly enjoyed all the varied and totally believable characters especially the two main ones, both Dottie and Hardy the policeman felt so relatable and the underlying hint of a will there/won’t there be romance just made me want to keep reading. This is definitely a book that I highly recommend and I am definitely hunting out the next book!!
July 13, 2021
I received this book from Voracious Readers Only.
I was grabbed by the description of the plot. Dottie Manderson is walking home one night when she stumbles upon a man she believes to be drunk in the street only to find out he has been stabbed and is dying. She stays with him while help comes but alas he passes. She is met by a D.S. William Hardy who after some time comes to fancy her.
What happens henceforth is more of a romance novel than a detective novel which is not what I was thinking it was. Dottie is a young girl whose mother believes she should be looking to be married already. Lots of talk about eligible men and fashion. Some detecting but not what enough for me I guess.
I also had issues with the breaks in the scenes. One moment we'd be in Dotties house and then we'd be in Detective Hardys office with just a paragraph change. I would have preferred an obvious break in the scenes. Thats just a matter of opinion though.
Not a terrible start to a mystery series, I think though that I would like more mystery and detection than who should marry who or what dress is for what occasion. That being said, I did enjoy the character of Dottie and the first book does end on a cliff hanger so of course I am now wanting to find out what happens next.
I was grabbed by the description of the plot. Dottie Manderson is walking home one night when she stumbles upon a man she believes to be drunk in the street only to find out he has been stabbed and is dying. She stays with him while help comes but alas he passes. She is met by a D.S. William Hardy who after some time comes to fancy her.
What happens henceforth is more of a romance novel than a detective novel which is not what I was thinking it was. Dottie is a young girl whose mother believes she should be looking to be married already. Lots of talk about eligible men and fashion. Some detecting but not what enough for me I guess.
I also had issues with the breaks in the scenes. One moment we'd be in Dotties house and then we'd be in Detective Hardys office with just a paragraph change. I would have preferred an obvious break in the scenes. Thats just a matter of opinion though.
Not a terrible start to a mystery series, I think though that I would like more mystery and detection than who should marry who or what dress is for what occasion. That being said, I did enjoy the character of Dottie and the first book does end on a cliff hanger so of course I am now wanting to find out what happens next.
February 9, 2022
This was hot and cold for me. It starts off very well, with the mystery presented straightaway, and the MC setting herself apart as a kind and caring person. But I felt the plot then veers off a bit - The mystery takes a back burner and you start learning a bit more about the life of our MC and her family, and the parties, and the card evenings, and the other wonderful (but irrelevant) things that she gets up to in 1930s London. The characters are well padded out, but I found no one to tickle my fancy. The mystery gets lost for a while, as we just traipse through the historical fiction portion of this tale, until the very end, where I was quite unsatisfied with the conclusion of the mystery, as it thought it didn't really explain the things I wanted so desperately to know.
So, why would I give this a 3 rating? The writing was wonderful to experience, and the historical fiction part of the novel was really sweet. It did the "cosy" part of "cosy mystery" very well, perhaps at the expense of the "mystery". (I also seemed to be envisioning Essie Davis as a Miss Fisher-esque sleuth, which is always a good time!) All to say I enjoyed much of the setting and the writing.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
So, why would I give this a 3 rating? The writing was wonderful to experience, and the historical fiction part of the novel was really sweet. It did the "cosy" part of "cosy mystery" very well, perhaps at the expense of the "mystery". (I also seemed to be envisioning Essie Davis as a Miss Fisher-esque sleuth, which is always a good time!) All to say I enjoyed much of the setting and the writing.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
Having just endured a so-so date, Dottie's plans are to join the party in progress at her sister's home. That's sure to be more entertaining than her beau of the evening. It all takes a macabre spin when she quite literally stumbles over a dead body!
Of course, she's not content to leave things to the police so she's off on an investigation of her own. That could lead to trouble. But is there a spot of romance brewing too?
There are six episodes in Dottie's adventures to date, and while I've only just read the first, you can be sure the others now reside in my TBR! Packed full of twists, a couple of unexpected upturns, Night and Day is a page-turner of a whodunnit. I had an inkling of the "villain" of the piece, but it wasn't till just before the reveal that I knew for sure. Allan's characters are quirky and fun - I'm intrigued by the sub-stories and can't wait to see what they get up to next.
[I was fortunate to receive a copy of the book from the author through Voracious Readers with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are entirely my own and given freely.]
Of course, she's not content to leave things to the police so she's off on an investigation of her own. That could lead to trouble. But is there a spot of romance brewing too?
There are six episodes in Dottie's adventures to date, and while I've only just read the first, you can be sure the others now reside in my TBR! Packed full of twists, a couple of unexpected upturns, Night and Day is a page-turner of a whodunnit. I had an inkling of the "villain" of the piece, but it wasn't till just before the reveal that I knew for sure. Allan's characters are quirky and fun - I'm intrigued by the sub-stories and can't wait to see what they get up to next.
[I was fortunate to receive a copy of the book from the author through Voracious Readers with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are entirely my own and given freely.]
January 8, 2022
'Like the beat beat beat of the tom-tom
When the jungle shadows fall
Like the tick tick tock of the stately clock
As it stands against the wall
Like the drip drip drip of the raindrops
When the summer shower is through
So a voice within me keeps repeating you, you, you'
(Night and Day, from the Gay Divorcee, Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers, 1934)
The 1930s, in London West, - Dorothy Manderson - Dottie- , finds a dying man on her sister’s doorstep, mumbling the lines of this song before taking his last breath.
With attention to the social rules and graces of the period, this delightful period cozy crime transports the reader back to 1930 Britain; -
The story has short chapters, consisting mostly of dialogue, with great emphasis on the then ruling ranks and classes. A quick and delightful read. Recommended.
3 stars
I would like to thank Voracious Readers Only for this eARC, this opinion is my own.
When the jungle shadows fall
Like the tick tick tock of the stately clock
As it stands against the wall
Like the drip drip drip of the raindrops
When the summer shower is through
So a voice within me keeps repeating you, you, you'
(Night and Day, from the Gay Divorcee, Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers, 1934)
The 1930s, in London West, - Dorothy Manderson - Dottie- , finds a dying man on her sister’s doorstep, mumbling the lines of this song before taking his last breath.
With attention to the social rules and graces of the period, this delightful period cozy crime transports the reader back to 1930 Britain; -
The story has short chapters, consisting mostly of dialogue, with great emphasis on the then ruling ranks and classes. A quick and delightful read. Recommended.
3 stars
I would like to thank Voracious Readers Only for this eARC, this opinion is my own.
February 16, 2021
Set in the early 1930's young Dorothy (Dottie) who lives at home and remains single, stumbles on a handsome and young dying man on a rainy night. She tries to help him, but is only able to hear his last words (which he sings to her) the lyrics to Fred Astaire's play "Night and Day" and clings to her hand as he passes away. She flees to her nearby relatives home hosting a party, and reports the body. Thus, the mystery ensues.
I enjoyed the descriptive narrative and character development of the decade, but the detective who investigates the death (murder since he was stabbed) seems to have more of a crush on her than he does the case. Dottie and her sister seem more in tune to the case than the detective. Not a super strong mystery, but an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the descriptive narrative and character development of the decade, but the detective who investigates the death (murder since he was stabbed) seems to have more of a crush on her than he does the case. Dottie and her sister seem more in tune to the case than the detective. Not a super strong mystery, but an enjoyable read.
August 29, 2021
This was an offering from Voracious Readers and a lovely entertaining read.
Dottie Manderson is a young woman in London in 1933 and the period details paint the picture very well. Dottie is the unmarried second daughter of a mother anxious to see her settled and as such, pushes Dottie towards eligible gentlemen. Meanwhile, Dottie models for a dressmaker and spends quite a lot of time with her sister Flora. While on the way to Flora's after an evening at the theatre, Dottie has the unpleasant shock of finding a man who's been fatally stabbed. Suddenly so many things aren't what they seem to be.
This is highly entertaining and no doubt, the next one in the series will be on my list.
Dottie Manderson is a young woman in London in 1933 and the period details paint the picture very well. Dottie is the unmarried second daughter of a mother anxious to see her settled and as such, pushes Dottie towards eligible gentlemen. Meanwhile, Dottie models for a dressmaker and spends quite a lot of time with her sister Flora. While on the way to Flora's after an evening at the theatre, Dottie has the unpleasant shock of finding a man who's been fatally stabbed. Suddenly so many things aren't what they seem to be.
This is highly entertaining and no doubt, the next one in the series will be on my list.
November 6, 2021
What a fun read! Dottie Manderson stumbles upon a dying man on a rainsoaked sidewalk on the way to her sister's house - what a scandal! It's 1933 London, and girls of her class just do not associate with such things. Nevertheless, Dottie and her sister Flora can't keep wondering exactly what happened, and begin to conduct their own investigation. Meanwhile, Dottie is in need of marrying as soon as possible, according to her mother, and is presented with a list of possible suitors to create a guest list for her mother's nonstop teas, dinners, and card parties. It's almost Christmas, and then it will be New Year's, so much to do and so many clothes to buy to do it! Looking forward to reading the rest of the Dottie Manderson stories.
April 5, 2023
Highly enjoyable start to series
I very much enjoyed this initial entry in what is a new series to me, and is my first book by this author. I am eagerly looking forward to the next. Dottie’s personal experiences seemed realistic and relatable, which made her endearing. I especially enjoyed the interaction between Dottie and her sister Flora, though the budding relationship between Dottie and another main character (not giving anything away!) is a close second. I could relate to her experiences with all three suitors, though admittedly was never pursued by three at the same time. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries in a historical setting with a bit of romance included.
I very much enjoyed this initial entry in what is a new series to me, and is my first book by this author. I am eagerly looking forward to the next. Dottie’s personal experiences seemed realistic and relatable, which made her endearing. I especially enjoyed the interaction between Dottie and her sister Flora, though the budding relationship between Dottie and another main character (not giving anything away!) is a close second. I could relate to her experiences with all three suitors, though admittedly was never pursued by three at the same time. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries in a historical setting with a bit of romance included.
February 5, 2021
This is a well written cozy mystery. It is set in the early 1930's but the characters show none of the effects of the recent great depression (lucky for them), except for the Sergeant (later Inspector) whose father lost all the family money. Dottie's family is wealthy but in keeping with the times, Dottie herself has a job as a model. In keeping with her family's place in society her mother is trying to find her a suitable husband.
It is easy to read and not too demanding yet the characters of Dottie and Flora are charming in their own right. Dottie stumbles upon a dying man on her way to a party at the home of her sister and brother-in-law, and that is the start of the pair of sisters investigating. When Dottie is in mortal danger she is saved by the forethought and quick action of the police.
This is the first in a series featuring Dottie Manderson. If they are all as good as the beginning they should be worth progressing through.
I received my copy free through Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
It is easy to read and not too demanding yet the characters of Dottie and Flora are charming in their own right. Dottie stumbles upon a dying man on her way to a party at the home of her sister and brother-in-law, and that is the start of the pair of sisters investigating. When Dottie is in mortal danger she is saved by the forethought and quick action of the police.
This is the first in a series featuring Dottie Manderson. If they are all as good as the beginning they should be worth progressing through.
I received my copy free through Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
April 5, 2021
This was a book sent to me by VRO in exchange for a review.
I enjoyed this book. I wouldn't say it was a page-turner, but it was an entertaining read. The two lead characters were well drawn and the growing relationship between them promises for the future. The mystery, such as it was, was not a complete surprise but there were plenty of suspects for the reader. Some of the peripheral characters were two dimensional but it might be that these can be developed as the series goes on. There were some typos in the text I had. Would I read another in the series? Yes. Would I rush out to buy it? No.
I enjoyed this book. I wouldn't say it was a page-turner, but it was an entertaining read. The two lead characters were well drawn and the growing relationship between them promises for the future. The mystery, such as it was, was not a complete surprise but there were plenty of suspects for the reader. Some of the peripheral characters were two dimensional but it might be that these can be developed as the series goes on. There were some typos in the text I had. Would I read another in the series? Yes. Would I rush out to buy it? No.
August 28, 2022
Thank you to Voracious Readers for a copy of this book. I was interested in this book because I was led to believe that it was a 'cosy mystery' with Dottie Manderson as the amateur sleuth. I was disappointed that the vast majority of the book seemed to centre around Dottie's love life. The only 'sleuthing' she focussed on was the 'mystery' of the gold cloaks which appeared to have nothing to do with the victim's death. I found it a dissatisfying read, sadly.
I was also frustrated by the layout of the book. Instead of a physical break between Dottie's scenes and a separate Hardy (the policeman) scene, the paragraph just followed on as if he was with her. It was very confusing.
I was also frustrated by the layout of the book. Instead of a physical break between Dottie's scenes and a separate Hardy (the policeman) scene, the paragraph just followed on as if he was with her. It was very confusing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2024
NIGHT AND DAY is a historical cozy mystery set in London in the 1930’s. Dottie Manderson is on her way home from a party when she comes across a Archie Dunn dying on the sidewalk and quickly becomes entangled in her first murder mystery. This book is equal parts cozy murder mystery, which inspector William Hardy is working to solve as well, and a fun slice of life look at being a young woman back in the 1930’s in London with a mother who just wants to set you up to get married with a bunch of unappealing dates. I found Dottie’s dismay at being pushed into dating, and the lack of success when she tried her best, as entertaining as the murder plot, which took a backseat in the middle of the book. The dismal dates provided for comic relief, though I felt for Dottie! This was definitely a fun read with nice characters I’d love to see again. 5/5 stars.
July 29, 2021
Good Read
Dottie a young part time model lives with her parents. Her mother is formidable and old fashioned. Some of the funniest parts of the book are about her. Dottie is very close with her married sister Flora. Dottie young and pretty has a host of suitors most unappealing. Again very funny. She happens upon a murder, becomes involved and meets the officer in charge of the investigation. As she navigates investigating, dating, working and her family her hands are full. Great start to the series can't wait to read Book 2.
Dottie a young part time model lives with her parents. Her mother is formidable and old fashioned. Some of the funniest parts of the book are about her. Dottie is very close with her married sister Flora. Dottie young and pretty has a host of suitors most unappealing. Again very funny. She happens upon a murder, becomes involved and meets the officer in charge of the investigation. As she navigates investigating, dating, working and her family her hands are full. Great start to the series can't wait to read Book 2.
December 17, 2021
Wonderful from the very first page. I was immediately transported to Dottie’s side and was vividly aware of every moment throughout. Many beautiful settings described throughout. It reminded me a bit of The Thin Man series with its unique set of colorful characters, distinctive scenery and punchy dialogue. Dottie is both intelligent and modern, for the time, but within respectable limits. Refreshing indeed along with a bit of good old fashioned romance.
For me, after a long day of work, the last thing before shut eye is a few pages with Dottie and Flora and I sleep like a baby.
For me, after a long day of work, the last thing before shut eye is a few pages with Dottie and Flora and I sleep like a baby.
February 10, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to Dottie and her world. I liked the use of language and detail to set the time period. The supporting characters are mostly likeable and the ones that aren't serve a purpose. The investigation moves along as a decent pace and the final chapter hints at more to come in future books. I'm hooked by Mr Hardy and would be happy to read the next book just to see where the author takes that thread.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers
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March 26, 2022I received this book through voracious readers only for an honest review.
I enjoyed the character development and reading about activities in Britain during the 1930’s. Agree with other reviews that the murder mystery part was neglected at times and some of the plot twists were a bit weak. It was a happy go lucky rom - com for the most part so the tension in the final scene as the mystery was solved, felt a bit contrived to me. That being said, it was a fun, light, easy read with good character development. I look forward to reading further adventures of Dottie.
I enjoyed the character development and reading about activities in Britain during the 1930’s. Agree with other reviews that the murder mystery part was neglected at times and some of the plot twists were a bit weak. It was a happy go lucky rom - com for the most part so the tension in the final scene as the mystery was solved, felt a bit contrived to me. That being said, it was a fun, light, easy read with good character development. I look forward to reading further adventures of Dottie.
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