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Doyle & Acton #5
Murder in All Honour
Things are a bit grim at Scotland Yard, this Christmas. On the heels of a nasty corruption scandal, the CID must now contend with a killer who is murdering pregnant women, so as to steal their babies. Chief Inspector Acton doesn't want Doyle anywhere near this case, of course, but she can't shake the feeling that there is more to his concern than his usual over-protectiveness—and more to this case than the usual psycho-killer.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2017
110 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Anne Cleeland
36 books473 followersAnne Cleeland writes a contemporary Scotland Yard mystery series that is featured in the Amazon top 100 best sellers. She also writes a historical series of stand-alone books set in the Regency period. A member of International Thriller Writers, The Historical Novel Society, and Mystery Writers of America, she lives in California and has four children. www.annecleeland.com; @annecleeland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
May 4, 2017
Lord and Lady Acton, everyone's favorite sociopath/obsessive and his fey enabler are back in another mystery mostly involving the deaths of pregnant women with their babies being stolen. Acton is also preoccupied with finishing up the Met corruption scandal.
I'm sorry if I sound dismissive, I'm really not. I do love this series, just because Acton and Doyle are so refreshing and unusual. I read this in one sitting within hours of its Kindle release.
We learn in this book why Acton was disturbed by the color of his future son's eyes-but no solution to the problem is presented, which bugged me a bit. The reason why some of the Trestle ghosts are perturbed is also explained.
I enjoy how some story lines are ended, others are continued and new ones are started.
This series fascinates me, mostly because I have never recovered from the jaw dropping experience of the first one, Murder in Thrall. Well, slap my knees and just color me enthralled with this entire series.
I'm sorry if I sound dismissive, I'm really not. I do love this series, just because Acton and Doyle are so refreshing and unusual. I read this in one sitting within hours of its Kindle release.
We learn in this book why Acton was disturbed by the color of his future son's eyes-but no solution to the problem is presented, which bugged me a bit. The reason why some of the Trestle ghosts are perturbed is also explained.
I enjoy how some story lines are ended, others are continued and new ones are started.
This series fascinates me, mostly because I have never recovered from the jaw dropping experience of the first one, Murder in Thrall. Well, slap my knees and just color me enthralled with this entire series.
April 9, 2017
One of the great joys of reading is finding a series that is one thrilling book after another. My devotion to the Doyle and Acton series was cemented in the very first book, Murder in Thrall, and each subsequent tale has been a complete experience of reading euphoria. Kathleen Doyle and Michael Sinclair are the most mismatched, perfect couple in fiction. Kathleen, with her Irish commoner's background and touch of fey and Michael, with his Lord of the manor and touch of obsessive-compulsive disorder prove that love and humor can conquer all. Their positions at Scotland Yard are reflective of their social order/disorder, and they have an uncanny knack at solving the most complicated of cases, even when Acton is withholding vital information. Murder in All Honour is a most personal tale for both Kathleen and Michael, with all they hold dear and important at stake.
Someone is killing pregnant prostitutes and removing the babies without a trace of where those babies have gone. Are they dead, too, or have the babies been spared to live a better life? Although Acton doesn't want Doyle anywhere near a case where mothers-to-be are killed, since Doyle herself is pregnant, but with the lingering business of corruption at the highest levels of the Met, investigators are short-handed and Doyle is ever wily about inserting herself into the most complex crimes. Of course, with her scalp-tingling and undeniable intuitive skills, Doyle is a definite asset in investigations. When a murdered nun is also discovered, Doyle's antennae are on high alert. As is usual with Acton, he seems to be dealing with other matters and dark dealings which he is keeping from the fair Doyle, but Acton's secrecy never discourages Doyle from digging for answers in both their professional and personal lives. There are revelations in this 5th book that have been brewing for some time, and some intriguing new developments that will affect the new heir, Doyle's and Acton's offspring.
While the series always delivers with the characters of Doyle and Acton, and their witty conversations are a highlight, the supporting cast of characters is as cleverly drawn. Detective Inspector Thomas Williams is forever devoted to both Kathleen and Michael, and like Kathleen, I am always buoyed by his appearance. Doyle's somewhat nemesis, DS Isabel Munoz, continues to bait Doyle about her good fortune with Acton and dismiss Doyle's detective skills. But, Munoz has a personal stake in the current crime wave, which may serve to humble her a bit. Doyle's and Acton's butler Reynolds is always in fine form and quite the purveyor of tradition and useful information. Doyle's criminal friend Savoie plays an extensive role in this story, too. Savoie, with his contradictory traits of ruthlessness and caring, makes for an interesting ally in Doyle's life.
Anne Cleeland is an author of exquisite imagination and cleverness. The plots of her stories never fail to captivate me, her characters entertain and thrill, and her dialogue delivers in delightful abundance.
Someone is killing pregnant prostitutes and removing the babies without a trace of where those babies have gone. Are they dead, too, or have the babies been spared to live a better life? Although Acton doesn't want Doyle anywhere near a case where mothers-to-be are killed, since Doyle herself is pregnant, but with the lingering business of corruption at the highest levels of the Met, investigators are short-handed and Doyle is ever wily about inserting herself into the most complex crimes. Of course, with her scalp-tingling and undeniable intuitive skills, Doyle is a definite asset in investigations. When a murdered nun is also discovered, Doyle's antennae are on high alert. As is usual with Acton, he seems to be dealing with other matters and dark dealings which he is keeping from the fair Doyle, but Acton's secrecy never discourages Doyle from digging for answers in both their professional and personal lives. There are revelations in this 5th book that have been brewing for some time, and some intriguing new developments that will affect the new heir, Doyle's and Acton's offspring.
While the series always delivers with the characters of Doyle and Acton, and their witty conversations are a highlight, the supporting cast of characters is as cleverly drawn. Detective Inspector Thomas Williams is forever devoted to both Kathleen and Michael, and like Kathleen, I am always buoyed by his appearance. Doyle's somewhat nemesis, DS Isabel Munoz, continues to bait Doyle about her good fortune with Acton and dismiss Doyle's detective skills. But, Munoz has a personal stake in the current crime wave, which may serve to humble her a bit. Doyle's and Acton's butler Reynolds is always in fine form and quite the purveyor of tradition and useful information. Doyle's criminal friend Savoie plays an extensive role in this story, too. Savoie, with his contradictory traits of ruthlessness and caring, makes for an interesting ally in Doyle's life.
Anne Cleeland is an author of exquisite imagination and cleverness. The plots of her stories never fail to captivate me, her characters entertain and thrill, and her dialogue delivers in delightful abundance.
April 6, 2019
Another good Acton and Doyle mystery. I was shocked by the Munoz and Savoie pairing. I didn't see that coming. I thought she was seeing his brother...maybe that was a red herring type relationship.
Onwards to book 6 in this series.
Onwards to book 6 in this series.
April 24, 2019
Kathleen share what Edward is going to looks like with Michael!
Awww, sweet ❤️
Awww, sweet ❤️
March 3, 2017
I was giddy with anticipation for the release of the fifth book in the Acton and Doyle series, Murder In All Honour, so I nearly did a handstand when the Kindle version was released yesterday. Since the sixth book, Murder in Shadow, will not be released until September, I inhaled "Murder in All Honour" in one setting then went back to savor the story in full. Michael Sinclair, Lord Acton, is his awesome over the top possessive, jealous super Alpha self. Acton does not play when it comes to his fair Kathleen Doyle...he will kill anyone that thinks about threatening his wife. While Lady Acton is fervently working on reforming her rapscallion spouse but Acton is not quite ready for confirmation.
This book was full of revelations that any in-depth review would reveal plot spoilers and this book is meant to take the reader on a journey of plot twists with the murder mystery and the machinations of the House of Acton… and then some.
As usual favorite characters make an appearance, the cool butler Reynolds, the stoic and noble Habib, calm and collected Thomas, that sneaky, dangerous criminal Philippe Savoie, and poor Munoz who dealing with a family crisis of her own. Sadly, there Lizzie Mathis was only mentioned in passing and there was little mention of Dowager Lady Acton who “hates her Irish daughter in-law with the heat of a million suns.” The ghostly Acton ancestors brought lots f humor in their in-fighting and squeaking to Doyle about family secrets. But on the whole, this story is firmly focused on Lord and Lady Acton.
I hope that we will eventually get a book with Acton point of view; I’d love to have a peek inside the mind of that obsessive-possessive man. This series is addicting and I have become obsessed with this awesome couple and that is no small feat for an author to pull off for an uber picky reader like me. Very highly recommended!
This book was full of revelations that any in-depth review would reveal plot spoilers and this book is meant to take the reader on a journey of plot twists with the murder mystery and the machinations of the House of Acton… and then some.
As usual favorite characters make an appearance, the cool butler Reynolds, the stoic and noble Habib, calm and collected Thomas, that sneaky, dangerous criminal Philippe Savoie, and poor Munoz who dealing with a family crisis of her own. Sadly, there Lizzie Mathis was only mentioned in passing and there was little mention of Dowager Lady Acton who “hates her Irish daughter in-law with the heat of a million suns.” The ghostly Acton ancestors brought lots f humor in their in-fighting and squeaking to Doyle about family secrets. But on the whole, this story is firmly focused on Lord and Lady Acton.
I hope that we will eventually get a book with Acton point of view; I’d love to have a peek inside the mind of that obsessive-possessive man. This series is addicting and I have become obsessed with this awesome couple and that is no small feat for an author to pull off for an uber picky reader like me. Very highly recommended!
September 14, 2018
Unable to award stars and will have to circle back. I picked up this book last Friday at library because it was clean, fresh, unread. Problems: I know I have tried reading this series previously and could not get into it, but I forgot to make a note here to help my memory.
One cannot pick up book #5 without having read the previous books.
If I say too much I could ruin for others. Note to self: this female Irish detective is fey as they say -- oh, yeah...another Irish scalp a-tingling. Correction: Every other page her scalp is "prickling"!
Her husband is of the aristocracy - whoops. They don't start out married, so forget I mentioned it.
Pregnant women are being done away with, babies taken.
Doyle has a very strange way of speakin' for a countess. And other problems.
I will try to read the series some day starting at the beginning. Maybe.
It does manage to turn a boring police procedural into a fantasy dance, so be in the mood for that and start at book #1.
LATER Note: I was on the train long enough to read this book again so I can give it 3 stars. There is a place for this light and zany approach to murder. I can see this staged as a comedy in another era and there would have been appreciative audience. I should look for interviews with author to find out if this was her intent to simply take the reader for a joy ride down balmy road. If I had started at the beginning I may have been more sure footed.
One cannot pick up book #5 without having read the previous books.
If I say too much I could ruin for others. Note to self: this female Irish detective is fey as they say -- oh, yeah...another Irish scalp a-tingling. Correction: Every other page her scalp is "prickling"!
Her husband is of the aristocracy - whoops. They don't start out married, so forget I mentioned it.
Pregnant women are being done away with, babies taken.
Doyle has a very strange way of speakin' for a countess. And other problems.
I will try to read the series some day starting at the beginning. Maybe.
It does manage to turn a boring police procedural into a fantasy dance, so be in the mood for that and start at book #1.
LATER Note: I was on the train long enough to read this book again so I can give it 3 stars. There is a place for this light and zany approach to murder. I can see this staged as a comedy in another era and there would have been appreciative audience. I should look for interviews with author to find out if this was her intent to simply take the reader for a joy ride down balmy road. If I had started at the beginning I may have been more sure footed.
March 14, 2017
3.75 stars
September 30, 2024
Another wild romp with Doyle and Acton. I started reading this series a year or so ago, but got sidetracked, so I was really happy to pick this one up on kindle and delve into the somewhat twisted and macabre relationship between DCI Acton and DS Doyle. In this story, there is a rash of murders of pregnant women, and the babies are being stolen. It's bizarre, but I love all the twists and turns of the mystery. I'm definitely going to be picking up the next book and diving in as soon as I can..
March 3, 2017
Love these books!!!
The characters are like old friends that you want to visit over and over again. I love Kathleen and Michael. Whenever I want to read a good book that makes me laugh and where I enjoy myself I always reach for Doyle and Acton!!!! It works every time!!! Give the books a try and you won't be disappointed.
The characters are like old friends that you want to visit over and over again. I love Kathleen and Michael. Whenever I want to read a good book that makes me laugh and where I enjoy myself I always reach for Doyle and Acton!!!! It works every time!!! Give the books a try and you won't be disappointed.
December 10, 2023
Doyle is pregnant throughout this one and helping to investigate the murders of nuns and pregnant women. I was kinda leery going into this one because of that, but it wasn't just any pregnant women that were being targeted. .
She doesn't have as many dreams in this one, but gets the itchy scalp and sees ancestral ghosts.
Everyone is overworked because of all the rotten police that got the boot after the last book. Otherwise Acton would probably make sure that Doyle stayed at a desk to keep her safe.
Lots more Machiavellian machinations by Acton and a couple more secrets from his past are revealed.
The Christmas epilogue was so lovely!
She doesn't have as many dreams in this one, but gets the itchy scalp and sees ancestral ghosts.
Everyone is overworked because of all the rotten police that got the boot after the last book. Otherwise Acton would probably make sure that Doyle stayed at a desk to keep her safe.
Lots more Machiavellian machinations by Acton and a couple more secrets from his past are revealed.
The Christmas epilogue was so lovely!
October 25, 2019
3.5 stars
I can’t explain it but I am still reading this series.
That said, I like Acton. Even when he doesn’t explain himself. How will he protect his dear little wife? Or what will she try to do to protect him? Possessive though he may be, he truly loves Doyle and would do anything so that she is happy. And I mean anything. What secrets about his nefarious underworld dealings will he give up? What does Acton have planned for Williams, Munoz and Savoie in the near future? Will I learn more about his parents? And wasn’t that the best-Christmas-present-ever that Doyle gave him?
I can’t explain it but I am still reading this series.
That said, I like Acton. Even when he doesn’t explain himself. How will he protect his dear little wife? Or what will she try to do to protect him? Possessive though he may be, he truly loves Doyle and would do anything so that she is happy. And I mean anything. What secrets about his nefarious underworld dealings will he give up? What does Acton have planned for Williams, Munoz and Savoie in the near future? Will I learn more about his parents? And wasn’t that the best-Christmas-present-ever that Doyle gave him?
September 6, 2017
I liked the book overall. I still think Doyle is a wee bit stupid. I probably would have enjoyed this series more if I had read the books as they were released. Meaning, it's a series that's best in small doses. If I stop reading I'm afraid I won't go back to it. After receiving so many recommendations for this series I _do_ want to be up to date with the story arc.
The mystery was better in this book and I was surprised when the murderer was revealed. I hadn't considered that character. Acton and Doyle still have communication issues. They both keep secrets. Doyle displays guilt like a 5 year old. She holds it in as long as she can then spills it all to Acton. Her scalp still prickles at least one every 10 pages, which she promptly ignores. I'm so tired of reading about it that I'm ignoring it too. What's the point in having a gift if you don't pay heed to it? So annoying.
As the series progresses I find Doyle's character is portrayed more and more as the stupid Irish bumpkin. I feel it widens the social divide between her and Acton. Acton has his own honesty issues. How can you have a good relationship with someone who refuses to be open and honest?
I know Doyle is much younger than Acton. She's naive and inexperienced. I really want her to start growing up a bit more. Her experiences at Scotland Yard and her relationship with Acton should help her grow but she isn't, not really.
3.5 - 4.0 **** and on to
The mystery was better in this book and I was surprised when the murderer was revealed. I hadn't considered that character. Acton and Doyle still have communication issues. They both keep secrets. Doyle displays guilt like a 5 year old. She holds it in as long as she can then spills it all to Acton. Her scalp still prickles at least one every 10 pages, which she promptly ignores. I'm so tired of reading about it that I'm ignoring it too. What's the point in having a gift if you don't pay heed to it? So annoying.
As the series progresses I find Doyle's character is portrayed more and more as the stupid Irish bumpkin. I feel it widens the social divide between her and Acton. Acton has his own honesty issues. How can you have a good relationship with someone who refuses to be open and honest?
I know Doyle is much younger than Acton. She's naive and inexperienced. I really want her to start growing up a bit more. Her experiences at Scotland Yard and her relationship with Acton should help her grow but she isn't, not really.
3.5 - 4.0 **** and on to
March 4, 2017
I liked this book. I'm a huge fan of the Doyle and Acton series. I love how in love with each other Doyle and Acton are.
I like the police investigations they do together. I like the secondary detective characters of Williams and Munoz. The criminal Savoie keeps popping up and I'm wondering how he fits into everything.
Mild and lots of spoilers throughout this review, no major plot points but I will allude to things in the story. Mild spoilers Mild spoilers Mild spoilers
I was hoping for a more interesting Christmas present from Doyle to Acton. I liked what she got him, I just was expecting something outrageous that would make him laugh.
I didn't guess who the murderer was. I was surprised by how Acton was planning to handle the murderer, but I think Doyle's observations are right. She is rubbing off on Acton, a little.
I was hoping we would see the actual Christmas dinner that Doyle and Acton planned with Timothy and Nanda. I was disappointed we were told all about the menu and the decorations but didn't see the actual Christmas. Especially since Acton had never seemed to have celebrated a nice Christmas before Doyle.
I liked the anticipation of the "bundle of joy" plotline, and I'm glad it's going to stretch out over a few books (at least so far)
I was sad that the planned trip to Brighton in the last book didn't happen. Doyle bought that beautiful black dress for a weekend away and the happy couple has never had a vacation together. I know Acton is very busy with the corruption investigation.
I thought the nanny plotline was dropped abruptly. Doyle says she thinks she found their nanny (a witness/neighbor to a crime) but she hasn't asked her yet. Then we never see Doyle talk to the potential nanny. Maybe she will in a few months?
Overall, I enjoyed the book and will definitely be re-reading it. Liked the romance and liked the mystery. Doyle and Acton are one of my favorite couples.
I like the police investigations they do together. I like the secondary detective characters of Williams and Munoz. The criminal Savoie keeps popping up and I'm wondering how he fits into everything.
Mild and lots of spoilers throughout this review, no major plot points but I will allude to things in the story. Mild spoilers Mild spoilers Mild spoilers
I was hoping for a more interesting Christmas present from Doyle to Acton. I liked what she got him, I just was expecting something outrageous that would make him laugh.
I didn't guess who the murderer was. I was surprised by how Acton was planning to handle the murderer, but I think Doyle's observations are right. She is rubbing off on Acton, a little.
I was hoping we would see the actual Christmas dinner that Doyle and Acton planned with Timothy and Nanda. I was disappointed we were told all about the menu and the decorations but didn't see the actual Christmas. Especially since Acton had never seemed to have celebrated a nice Christmas before Doyle.
I liked the anticipation of the "bundle of joy" plotline, and I'm glad it's going to stretch out over a few books (at least so far)
I was sad that the planned trip to Brighton in the last book didn't happen. Doyle bought that beautiful black dress for a weekend away and the happy couple has never had a vacation together. I know Acton is very busy with the corruption investigation.
I thought the nanny plotline was dropped abruptly. Doyle says she thinks she found their nanny (a witness/neighbor to a crime) but she hasn't asked her yet. Then we never see Doyle talk to the potential nanny. Maybe she will in a few months?
Overall, I enjoyed the book and will definitely be re-reading it. Liked the romance and liked the mystery. Doyle and Acton are one of my favorite couples.
March 12, 2017
As in all five of these books in the series I love the characters, and usually all of the story. But, the story this time seemed a little wearing on my ability to believe Kathleen's constant belief that her husband is such a nefarious mastermind of all things evil going on in London. Not that he's evil, just that his finger is in every pie that's sliding by. I don't know if my difficulty lay in the tri-cornered or four-cornered plot being connected all at the same time or that I just wanted more alone time with Kathleen and himself.
Now I'm not really complaining but I guess I am a little bit.
Now I'm not really complaining but I guess I am a little bit.
March 7, 2017
Anne Cleeland has done it again; another great tale allowing us another glimpse of Doyle and Acton's life as a couple. I've slowly realized that it's not the mystery alone that draws me to all these novels, although the latest adventure is chock full of twists and turns, it's the endearing relationship of Lord and Lady Acton. To be fair, this relationship is not without its aristocratic pitfalls and dysfunctions, but so far they have risen above all challenges. This tale of murdered nuns, pregnant women and missing babies serves as the latest mystery in this fascinating series. At times, there were so many twists I doubted I would ever see a clear finish, but then Doyle realizes something that sums it all up" I keep forgetting it's always about me".
March 10, 2017
Well, another great book that I couldn't put down. This book was just like the many others, always wanting to know what happens next. I am so looking forward for the next book to come out! I just wish I would take my time to read these books, instead of binge reading it because I want to know what happens next, and before I know it I have finished the book. Thank you again Anne Cleveland to continue to write this series. This series I can now say is my one and only favorite and I'm always telling people about it!
January 19, 2019
This particular Doyle and Acton's instalment didn't grab me straight away, and it took me a while to get through the first 30% of the book.
And yet, I persevered. Once things started moving, this unique pairing sucked me right in.
Acton is edgy and secretive as usual, keeping things away from Doyle, despite her talent to always find out what he has been up to. There are a few investigations going on, and while Doyle's intuition tells her they are interconnected, for a while she can't find the link.
There are plenty of sweet tidbits like Christmas decorations or Savoie's little boy, but it's all interspersed with the middle of the conversation insights into investigations followed by feverish phone calls to confirm the theory. I love that. I love that Doyle's brain never stops, that she accepts her dark and sometimes sinister husband as he is and works with him or around his nature.
"You are amazing," he tells her when she uncovers another one of his intricate webs. And she is. Doyle is a touch Fey, so she knows when people lie to her and when something isn't right, she also can hear ghosts, and yet she is so down to earth and uncomplicated, which is in sharp contrast with Acton.
Such an odd, interesting pairing. I love them both, and I'll be picking the next book in series very very soon. Recommended to fans of Sherlock Holmes and British eccentricity in general.
* * *
Эта книга в частности, меня в начале совсем не захватила. Очень медленно читалась первая треть, пока наконец события не убыстрились и я не втянулась.
Актон как обычно мрачен, непроницаем и держит в секрете свои манипуляции от жены - Дойл, несмотря на талант той всегда под конец узнавать как и что у него получилось. Она замешана в нескольких расследованиях, и хотя ее интуиция говорит ей, что они взаимосвязаны, долгое время найти что их связывает она не может.
В книге есть немного милых моментов, рождественские декорации, разговоры с будущим ребенком Дойл, или мальчишка Савуа, например, но они перемешаны на оборванных на полуслове разговорах и лихорадочных звонках Уильямсу, чтобы проверить новую догадку по расследованию. Люблю я это. Люблю то, что мозг Дойл не перестает работать и находит разрешение проблем в самых обыденных ситуациях.
"Ты - необыкновенна," говорит ей Актон когда она наконец отгадывает, что за паутину махинаций сплел ее муж в этот раз. Мне нравится, что она принимает неординарность Актона такой как есть, со всей его темнотой характера и работает вместе с ним. Ведь она с ее способностью видеть ложь и интуицией на грани ясновидения тоже неординарна.
Такая странная, интересная пара детективов. Люблю я их, и буду читать следующую книгу серии поскорей ( я ведь на три книги позади!). Рекомендую, особенно любителям Шерлока и британской экцентричности в общем.
And yet, I persevered. Once things started moving, this unique pairing sucked me right in.
Acton is edgy and secretive as usual, keeping things away from Doyle, despite her talent to always find out what he has been up to. There are a few investigations going on, and while Doyle's intuition tells her they are interconnected, for a while she can't find the link.
There are plenty of sweet tidbits like Christmas decorations or Savoie's little boy, but it's all interspersed with the middle of the conversation insights into investigations followed by feverish phone calls to confirm the theory. I love that. I love that Doyle's brain never stops, that she accepts her dark and sometimes sinister husband as he is and works with him or around his nature.
"You are amazing," he tells her when she uncovers another one of his intricate webs. And she is. Doyle is a touch Fey, so she knows when people lie to her and when something isn't right, she also can hear ghosts, and yet she is so down to earth and uncomplicated, which is in sharp contrast with Acton.
Such an odd, interesting pairing. I love them both, and I'll be picking the next book in series very very soon. Recommended to fans of Sherlock Holmes and British eccentricity in general.
* * *
Эта книга в частности, меня в начале совсем не захватила. Очень медленно читалась первая треть, пока наконец события не убыстрились и я не втянулась.
Актон как обычно мрачен, непроницаем и держит в секрете свои манипуляции от жены - Дойл, несмотря на талант той всегда под конец узнавать как и что у него получилось. Она замешана в нескольких расследованиях, и хотя ее интуиция говорит ей, что они взаимосвязаны, долгое время найти что их связывает она не может.
В книге есть немного милых моментов, рождественские декорации, разговоры с будущим ребенком Дойл, или мальчишка Савуа, например, но они перемешаны на оборванных на полуслове разговорах и лихорадочных звонках Уильямсу, чтобы проверить новую догадку по расследованию. Люблю я это. Люблю то, что мозг Дойл не перестает работать и находит разрешение проблем в самых обыденных ситуациях.
"Ты - необыкновенна," говорит ей Актон когда она наконец отгадывает, что за паутину махинаций сплел ее муж в этот раз. Мне нравится, что она принимает неординарность Актона такой как есть, со всей его темнотой характера и работает вместе с ним. Ведь она с ее способностью видеть ложь и интуицией на грани ясновидения тоже неординарна.
Такая странная, интересная пара детективов. Люблю я их, и буду читать следующую книгу серии поскорей ( я ведь на три книги позади!). Рекомендую, особенно любителям Шерлока и британской экцентричности в общем.
March 12, 2017
4.5 stars!!
Murder in All Honour
Acton & Doyle New Scotland Yard mystery series installment No. 5
Is there such a thing as an “honorable” murder? Depends who you ask…present this question to Detective Sergeant Kathleen Doyle, and she will tell you no, this is what laws and the justice system is for..
However, if you were to query an opinion from Detective Chief Inspector Acton, you would certainly get a totally different response..(if he was answering you honestly)!
As if there is not enough turmoil already at the Met, what with all personnel already being subjected to the closely drawn scrutiny of the Anti-Corruption Command, as their continuing attempts to gather evidence in conjunction of those already netted under the recent sting, which has left the department short-handed, Doyle’s caseload is over-flowing. To add insult to injury it is Christmas time, no less.
Not only are there a rash of murders involving pregnant prostitutes whose babies are missing from the scene of the crime without a trace, it appears someone may be targeting nuns! What little evidence Doyle has discovered thus far, is of the non-conventional type, it’s not like she can share what her instincts are telling her with anyone, but there also seems to be an indication that her ever-loving husband the Chief Inspector, may have some inside knowledge with regard to these murders that he is doing his ultimate best to not share with her. Misdirection at every turn, in hopes to lead her far a-field, as if Acton wasn’t over protective before, now that she is also in a family way, the last place Acton wants Doyle to be, is investigating these crime scenes. This of course will not deter the fair Doyle in the least, and if she has to resort to some skullduggery of her own, by enlisting the assistance of her superior officer and friend, Detective Inspector Thomas Williams, or perhaps the criminal element Philippe Savioe, in order to solve these crimes she is not above it. The pages will fly as Kathleen is against time to solve these cases before her husband can stop her, or worse as her instincts are telling her, Acton may unsupectedly find himself in the position of regretting his own debt of honour. Anne Clelland once again delivers a superb mystery, one you will be sure to read every worn, and some twice!
Murder in All Honour
Acton & Doyle New Scotland Yard mystery series installment No. 5
Is there such a thing as an “honorable” murder? Depends who you ask…present this question to Detective Sergeant Kathleen Doyle, and she will tell you no, this is what laws and the justice system is for..
However, if you were to query an opinion from Detective Chief Inspector Acton, you would certainly get a totally different response..(if he was answering you honestly)!
As if there is not enough turmoil already at the Met, what with all personnel already being subjected to the closely drawn scrutiny of the Anti-Corruption Command, as their continuing attempts to gather evidence in conjunction of those already netted under the recent sting, which has left the department short-handed, Doyle’s caseload is over-flowing. To add insult to injury it is Christmas time, no less.
Not only are there a rash of murders involving pregnant prostitutes whose babies are missing from the scene of the crime without a trace, it appears someone may be targeting nuns! What little evidence Doyle has discovered thus far, is of the non-conventional type, it’s not like she can share what her instincts are telling her with anyone, but there also seems to be an indication that her ever-loving husband the Chief Inspector, may have some inside knowledge with regard to these murders that he is doing his ultimate best to not share with her. Misdirection at every turn, in hopes to lead her far a-field, as if Acton wasn’t over protective before, now that she is also in a family way, the last place Acton wants Doyle to be, is investigating these crime scenes. This of course will not deter the fair Doyle in the least, and if she has to resort to some skullduggery of her own, by enlisting the assistance of her superior officer and friend, Detective Inspector Thomas Williams, or perhaps the criminal element Philippe Savioe, in order to solve these crimes she is not above it. The pages will fly as Kathleen is against time to solve these cases before her husband can stop her, or worse as her instincts are telling her, Acton may unsupectedly find himself in the position of regretting his own debt of honour. Anne Clelland once again delivers a superb mystery, one you will be sure to read every worn, and some twice!
September 22, 2019
Down the rabbit hole...
Wow. There are so many twists and turns in these books that I’m surprised Doyle isn’t a nervous wreck as she tries to decipher all the plots and subplots that Acton has going on.
This story carries on directly from the previous book, and while it ties up a few loose threads, there were more than a few new intrigues added to the ongoing story arc. Apart from the murders, there is more going on behind the scenes with Sir Stephen, and other various relatives, that Doyle is finally made aware of, and one of them was a real corker. Speaking of relatives, Doyles ‘fey’ abilities are explored and expanded on, and I loved that slightly paranormal element.
Munoz has a much weightier role, and is dealing with the fallout of the last case - and what it means fir her family - however, Williams didn’t seem feature as prominently as usual, but it was a nice change.
Such an addictive series, so yes, I will definitely be reading the next book.
4 stars ⭐️
Wow. There are so many twists and turns in these books that I’m surprised Doyle isn’t a nervous wreck as she tries to decipher all the plots and subplots that Acton has going on.
This story carries on directly from the previous book, and while it ties up a few loose threads, there were more than a few new intrigues added to the ongoing story arc. Apart from the murders, there is more going on behind the scenes with Sir Stephen, and other various relatives, that Doyle is finally made aware of, and one of them was a real corker. Speaking of relatives, Doyles ‘fey’ abilities are explored and expanded on, and I loved that slightly paranormal element.
Munoz has a much weightier role, and is dealing with the fallout of the last case - and what it means fir her family - however, Williams didn’t seem feature as prominently as usual, but it was a nice change.
Such an addictive series, so yes, I will definitely be reading the next book.
4 stars ⭐️
June 29, 2017
Like many others have commented, the first book in the series caught one's attention. This book however is very interconnected to the other books and it's not a stand-alone. The main mystery of the book itself was solved (more or less) but many other ongoing strands remain unresolved (which keeps us coming back for more) but leaves a feeling at the end that nothing yet is resolved. So one feels a bit in limbo at the end of the book; one doesn't quite have the satisfied feeling at the end. While I love ongoing stories and plot lines (instead of the characters seeing to do the same thing every book), the sense of unfinished business makes me want the next book RIGHT NOW...
January 15, 2018
I am really enjoying this series. I love the characters of Doyle and Acton. I do believe this is a series that needs to be read in order though. If it were read as a stand alone, I believe many of the references would not be completely understood and the reader would miss some of the connections
Doyle is pregnant in this book - and she still seems to get herself into a "pickle". In this book someone is killing pregnant mothers and stealing the babies
Doyle is pregnant in this book - and she still seems to get herself into a "pickle". In this book someone is killing pregnant mothers and stealing the babies
May 1, 2019
Another very enjoyable police procedural with slightly fey Kathleen Doyle and Lord Acton. Readers should definitely start with the first in the series Murder In Thrall to be able to understand the unusual relationship between Doyle and Acton.
July 13, 2021
Good read
Another solid offering of the dynamic duo Acton and Doyle. These are fun to read and see what will happen next, because something ALWAYS does. Plus the secondary characters are a treat too.
Another solid offering of the dynamic duo Acton and Doyle. These are fun to read and see what will happen next, because something ALWAYS does. Plus the secondary characters are a treat too.
February 14, 2018
While I really like the idea of this series....
.... the author uses the same phrasing over and over and over, so that it’s starting to get on my nerves. Such a shame too, because other than that the story line moves along and is well laid out. I’ll try one more. <><
.... the author uses the same phrasing over and over and over, so that it’s starting to get on my nerves. Such a shame too, because other than that the story line moves along and is well laid out. I’ll try one more. <><
March 12, 2017
Lord and Lady Acton
I love this series and this book continues the tale of two intriguing characters and their unique marriage. While they are both police detectives, they come from wildly different backgrounds. Lady Acton follows her hunches and works to find out who is murdering pregnant women and stealing the babies. Her husband seems to be thwarting her and protecting the killer, for reasons he won't disclose to her.
The best part of these books is all of the characters and their wildly differing situations in life. It's always an adventure to watch the story evolve and the mystery get solved. Of course there are plenty of loose ends that assure me this couple will be back soon and the adventures will continue. I can't wait for the next story. If you haven't read this series yet, dive in!
I love this series and this book continues the tale of two intriguing characters and their unique marriage. While they are both police detectives, they come from wildly different backgrounds. Lady Acton follows her hunches and works to find out who is murdering pregnant women and stealing the babies. Her husband seems to be thwarting her and protecting the killer, for reasons he won't disclose to her.
The best part of these books is all of the characters and their wildly differing situations in life. It's always an adventure to watch the story evolve and the mystery get solved. Of course there are plenty of loose ends that assure me this couple will be back soon and the adventures will continue. I can't wait for the next story. If you haven't read this series yet, dive in!
August 15, 2017
I love this series. I just rip through each book because I can't put them down. I hope it goes on forever!
March 9, 2017
I enjoyed this addition to the 'New Scotland Yard' series by Anne Cleeland. However, it was not my favorite of the series and was certainly put-downable. It is less intense, Acton is somewhat less sociopathic and Doyle is still pretty fey.
I like that we get some further insights into Acton's family history and why the ghosts said he was an 'usurper'. Some of that also explained Acton's reaction to finding out that their son would be born with green eyes. That whole thing was left hanging and I didn't like that part -- but I will assume that it will be explained in the next book.
We're also left hanging about what is happening with the ACC. I'm wondering if something about the ACC will also cross over to be involved with Acton's lineage.
I'd like to see some reconciliation between Acton and his grandfather.
I like that we get some further insights into Acton's family history and why the ghosts said he was an 'usurper'. Some of that also explained Acton's reaction to finding out that their son would be born with green eyes. That whole thing was left hanging and I didn't like that part -- but I will assume that it will be explained in the next book.
We're also left hanging about what is happening with the ACC. I'm wondering if something about the ACC will also cross over to be involved with Acton's lineage.
I'd like to see some reconciliation between Acton and his grandfather.
July 21, 2019
What can I say? I am absolutely addicted to this series! As always, Acton has his own agenda and it includes taking care of business “his way“ and taking care of Doyle. I wish I could’ve listen to these last couple on Audible but they weren’t available to me. Fortunately, having listened to the first few I can still hear the voice in my head that I’ve come to know as Doyle’s.
Doyle is pregnant, Reynolds is still taking care of the family and mysteries never cease. I do have a horrible crush on Savoire though- I am hopeful he and Munoz will hook up!
Doyle is pregnant, Reynolds is still taking care of the family and mysteries never cease. I do have a horrible crush on Savoire though- I am hopeful he and Munoz will hook up!
April 20, 2019
My honest conclusion? This series is one of the two most romantic mysteries I've read. (The other belongs to J.D. Robb's In death series.) Lady Acton and their unborn son, Edward, were Lord Acton's whole world. Before I'd made this conclusion, during my first read, The mystery in this book was pretty lame. I was completely wrong.
In this installment Lord Acton was busy setting up all the traps for his adversaries in order to protect his wife and heir. He was so many steps ahead of those who wanted to harm his world. So exquisite to witness. I could already feel that the next book would blow me away!
Sharing my favorite scene:
In this installment Lord Acton was busy setting up all the traps for his adversaries in order to protect his wife and heir. He was so many steps ahead of those who wanted to harm his world. So exquisite to witness. I could already feel that the next book would blow me away!
Sharing my favorite scene:
99%
"I thought it only fair—I know what he's goin' to look like, and so should you. . . " For once—and perhaps the only time she could remember—her husband was unable to muster a response, as he gazed upon Edward's face. Bull's eye, she thought with some satisfaction; there's nothin' to this gift-giving business, after all.
February 15, 2021
I enjoyed this book, but not as much as the previous four in the series. There seemed to be a lot of the same and while I enjoy the themes this book is based around, it felt a little too much of the same old, same old to warrant the five stars I've given the others. Investigations previously raised in other novels of this series continue to be the focus in Murder in Honour as Doyle investigates who is cutting out fetuses from pregnant mothers. As per usual, Doyle's perceptive/Fey abilities give her a tingley scalp to let her know she needs to pay attention but can't put the pieces together effectively. Acton and Williams are still playing their cards close to their chest and being puppeteers in the background, with the latter now a DI. Enough breadcrumbs are dropped to let you know that previous cases and ones included in this book, particularly the corruption case with the ACC, will continue to drag on to the next book. Quick note - if you haven't read the previous books, you can get away without doing so as small recaps are given, but I personally wouldn't recommend it as the investigations and Acton's particular relationship with Doyle is given much more depth and explanation having read the series from the beginning.
I found the much-used concept of Acton telling Doyle nothing, even though they're supposed to be on the same side, a bit done to death at some points here. To quote fair Doyle, 'It was bewildering, that he would throw dust in her eyes, to protect such a killer'. My thoughts exactly. Acton has plots upon plots to distract, deflect and manipulate to the point where I'm surprised Doyle hasn't either clobbered him one or questioned her own mental health. He's clearly restricting information from her and covering up for various crimes...again.
Ghosts from the past pop back up as well as literal ghosts. It seems in an attempt to spice up Doyle's almost clairvoyant abilities, the author has added a greater dash of the supernatural into the books as the ghost theme from Book 3 continues to play a part with Trestles and other estate apparitions almost become characters themselves and attempt to spell out clues for Doyle to slowly piece together. On that point, the plot point where Doyle knows someone said/did something significant but can't quite grasp what it is/doesn't realise it at the time is repeated a bit in this book, as well. I actually picked the who dunnit in this novel for a change, but even guessing who it was didn't take my enjoyment away from how it was revealed. The book is still mostly from Doyle's point of view with the chapters lacking the snippets from other characters' minds that sometimes start the chapters in previous installments.
I found there seemed to be a lot unresolved in this book, even more so than in previous novels. I will continue to read the series because it's entertaining and I love the characters of Doyle and Acton, but this one, while still good, didn't have the wow factor for me the others had.
I found the much-used concept of Acton telling Doyle nothing, even though they're supposed to be on the same side, a bit done to death at some points here. To quote fair Doyle, 'It was bewildering, that he would throw dust in her eyes, to protect such a killer'. My thoughts exactly. Acton has plots upon plots to distract, deflect and manipulate to the point where I'm surprised Doyle hasn't either clobbered him one or questioned her own mental health. He's clearly restricting information from her and covering up for various crimes...again.
Ghosts from the past pop back up as well as literal ghosts. It seems in an attempt to spice up Doyle's almost clairvoyant abilities, the author has added a greater dash of the supernatural into the books as the ghost theme from Book 3 continues to play a part with Trestles and other estate apparitions almost become characters themselves and attempt to spell out clues for Doyle to slowly piece together. On that point, the plot point where Doyle knows someone said/did something significant but can't quite grasp what it is/doesn't realise it at the time is repeated a bit in this book, as well. I actually picked the who dunnit in this novel for a change, but even guessing who it was didn't take my enjoyment away from how it was revealed. The book is still mostly from Doyle's point of view with the chapters lacking the snippets from other characters' minds that sometimes start the chapters in previous installments.
I found there seemed to be a lot unresolved in this book, even more so than in previous novels. I will continue to read the series because it's entertaining and I love the characters of Doyle and Acton, but this one, while still good, didn't have the wow factor for me the others had.
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