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Lady Montfort Mystery #4
Death of an Unsung Hero
In 1916, the world is at war and the energetic Lady Montfort has persuaded her husband to offer his family’s dower house to the War Office as an auxiliary hospital for officers recovering from shell-shock with their redoubtable housekeeper Mrs. Jackson contributing to the war effort as the hospital’s quartermaster.
Despite the hospital’s success, the farming community of Haversham, led by the Montfort’s neighbor Sir Winchell Meacham, does not approve of a country-house hospital for men they consider to be cowards. When Captain Sir Evelyn Bray, one of the patients, is found lying face down in the vegetable garden with his head bashed in, both Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson have every reason to fear that the War Office will close their hospital. Once again the two women unite their diverse talents to discover who would have reason to murder a war hero suffering from amnesia.
Brimming with intrigue, Tessa Arlen's Death of an Unsung Hero brings more secrets and more charming descriptions of the English countryside to the wonderful Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson series.
Despite the hospital’s success, the farming community of Haversham, led by the Montfort’s neighbor Sir Winchell Meacham, does not approve of a country-house hospital for men they consider to be cowards. When Captain Sir Evelyn Bray, one of the patients, is found lying face down in the vegetable garden with his head bashed in, both Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson have every reason to fear that the War Office will close their hospital. Once again the two women unite their diverse talents to discover who would have reason to murder a war hero suffering from amnesia.
Brimming with intrigue, Tessa Arlen's Death of an Unsung Hero brings more secrets and more charming descriptions of the English countryside to the wonderful Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson series.
302 pages, Hardcover
First published March 13, 2018
71 people are currently reading
873 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Arlen
10 books530 followersTESSA ARLEN is the USA TODAY bestselling author of IN ROYAL SERVICE TO THE QUEEN, a novel of Marion Crawford the first royal servant to kiss and tell. Tessa writes historical fiction when she is not gardening.
For more information about Tessa and her books please visit her website. http://www.tessaarlen.com/
For more information about Tessa and her books please visit her website. http://www.tessaarlen.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
September 28, 2020
With the world at war Lady Montfort and her husband have given the family’s dower house over to be an auxiliary hospital for officers recovering from shell shock. But not everyone in the community is happy with that. The Montfort’s neighbour Sir Winchell Meacham certainly does not approve of the country house being used as a hospital for men he considers to be cowards. When one of the patients, Captain Sir Evelyn Bray is found dead with his head bashed on, police ae called in to investigate. They are not the only ones searching for answers. Lady Montfort and her housekeeper Mrs Jackson are just as determined to uncover the murderer. They are fearful too that the War Office will close their hospital so the sooner they can solve the crime who killed a man with amnesia, the better. Will they be able to solve the crime and save the hospital? Meanwhile is someone else in danger?
Although this is the fourth in a series about Lady Montfort by Tessa Arlen, this is the first book I have read. It didn’t matter as I quickly warmed to Lady Montfort and her sidekick Mrs Jackson. They are both likable spirited characters, who have a great respect for each other. What appalled me was the scorn and disregard from some people and especially Sir Winchell Meacham for those suffering from shell shock. My husband, who has read any number of war books, assures me this was quite a common attitude in the time. It made me angry to think these poor men who were serving their country were treated so shamefully.
One of the police officers is a bumbling idiot and quick to make assumptions and arrests. Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson take a more rational approach, as they consider the evidence not just the obvious. I liked the way they worked together to piece the information together. It shows a lot about the relationship between the women as well as attention to detail. As you would expect there are several red herrings thrown in to try and keep the reader off the track of the murderer until towards the end.
I liked the World War 1 historical info, the English country setting, the characters, the way the changes in society were highlighted by Lady Montfort and her daughter Althea. I also liked the way Lord Montfort supported his wife and her pursuits. This was an engaging read that kept me interested throughout. I am now keen to read another by this author. I would recommend this to anyone who likes historical mysteries. I really enjoyed it.
Although this is the fourth in a series about Lady Montfort by Tessa Arlen, this is the first book I have read. It didn’t matter as I quickly warmed to Lady Montfort and her sidekick Mrs Jackson. They are both likable spirited characters, who have a great respect for each other. What appalled me was the scorn and disregard from some people and especially Sir Winchell Meacham for those suffering from shell shock. My husband, who has read any number of war books, assures me this was quite a common attitude in the time. It made me angry to think these poor men who were serving their country were treated so shamefully.
One of the police officers is a bumbling idiot and quick to make assumptions and arrests. Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson take a more rational approach, as they consider the evidence not just the obvious. I liked the way they worked together to piece the information together. It shows a lot about the relationship between the women as well as attention to detail. As you would expect there are several red herrings thrown in to try and keep the reader off the track of the murderer until towards the end.
I liked the World War 1 historical info, the English country setting, the characters, the way the changes in society were highlighted by Lady Montfort and her daughter Althea. I also liked the way Lord Montfort supported his wife and her pursuits. This was an engaging read that kept me interested throughout. I am now keen to read another by this author. I would recommend this to anyone who likes historical mysteries. I really enjoyed it.
April 6, 2018
Review to follow.
March 27, 2018
I’ve had the pleasure of reading all but one of the books in the Lady Montford Mystery series and they have all been wonderful reads. I love watching how Arlen’s writing has evolved over the series so far and this book was such a pleasure to read!
This book really stood out to me as the best in the series thus far though. Maybe it’s my love of WWI that really made this one stand out or maybe it was seeing the progression of Lady Montford and seeing her family, but either way this was a lovely read and I loved it on many levels!
In the previous books we don’t really see a whole lot of Lady Montford’s family and in this book we get to see a lot more of her family and husband. I loved seeing how understanding he is about her love of investigating. It was nice to read about such a supportive husband and I think readers will enjoy getting to know this side of Lady Montford’s life.
For me what made this book outstanding was the history. Yes the mystery and the characters were on point, but the history really shined. I love love love books about WWI. It’s such an interesting period for me and this had just the right mix and nailed so many high notes. A lot of books set in WWI focus on the post war but this book is set kind of in the middle. The romanticism is gone but yet they haven’t gotten to the end of the war and seen just how much damage had been done, they are right at that middle part where they are just realizing that so many of the soldiers are suffering greater wounds than just a bullet wound. Well done with the historical setting and research, that alone give this book high marks from me!
This series had a little bit of a Downton Abbey feel to it. So if you are a fan of the show and longing for more, this would be a great book to pick up to satisfy that urge! I loved how the mystery worked within the history so well. I thought it was accurate and spot on as well as intriguing. I loved watching things unravel and come to light. I was completely wrapped up not only in the history but the mystery itself which to me is the hallmark of a great historical mystery. While this series didn’t stand on a high note for me, the last two books have been well written and interesting that I am now thrilled to be waiting for the next one to come out! I love books that win me over and this book did just that!
See my full review here
This book really stood out to me as the best in the series thus far though. Maybe it’s my love of WWI that really made this one stand out or maybe it was seeing the progression of Lady Montford and seeing her family, but either way this was a lovely read and I loved it on many levels!
In the previous books we don’t really see a whole lot of Lady Montford’s family and in this book we get to see a lot more of her family and husband. I loved seeing how understanding he is about her love of investigating. It was nice to read about such a supportive husband and I think readers will enjoy getting to know this side of Lady Montford’s life.
For me what made this book outstanding was the history. Yes the mystery and the characters were on point, but the history really shined. I love love love books about WWI. It’s such an interesting period for me and this had just the right mix and nailed so many high notes. A lot of books set in WWI focus on the post war but this book is set kind of in the middle. The romanticism is gone but yet they haven’t gotten to the end of the war and seen just how much damage had been done, they are right at that middle part where they are just realizing that so many of the soldiers are suffering greater wounds than just a bullet wound. Well done with the historical setting and research, that alone give this book high marks from me!
This series had a little bit of a Downton Abbey feel to it. So if you are a fan of the show and longing for more, this would be a great book to pick up to satisfy that urge! I loved how the mystery worked within the history so well. I thought it was accurate and spot on as well as intriguing. I loved watching things unravel and come to light. I was completely wrapped up not only in the history but the mystery itself which to me is the hallmark of a great historical mystery. While this series didn’t stand on a high note for me, the last two books have been well written and interesting that I am now thrilled to be waiting for the next one to come out! I love books that win me over and this book did just that!
See my full review here
April 15, 2018
4.5 stars - I love this series, it just gets better and better! This story opens in 1916 - WWI is raging, and Lord and Lady Montfort have converted the dower house on their estate to a hospital for officers suffering from “shell-shock”, what we now call PTSD. Mrs. Jackson, Lady Montfort’s housekeeper, now works for the Red Cross running the hospital.
I’ve always loved the Downton Abbey vibe in this series, and this book is no exception. Mrs. Jackson, despite now being employed by the Red Cross, still treats Lady M. with the greatest deference, and Lady M. is never too high in the instep to show her appreciation and respect for Mrs. Jackson’s acuity and insights. Their relationship is stronger than ever I was glad to see, despite the changes brought by the war.
Mrs. Jackson sums their relationship up brilliantly toward the end of the book in this internal observation as they discuss a knotty issue in the case, “If anyone will see a way, she will, her mind skips over the little things like practicalities and rules and she will see what my methodical thinking often misses.” They make a delightful team!
Shortly after this book opens, one of the officer/patients is found dead in the garden. Captain Bray enjoyed digging alone in the potato bed - one of the approaches pioneered by the hospital is for the patients to work around the home farm, along with undergoing talk therapy to recover from their traumatic war injuries. The author gives some interesting information about this in her author’s note at the end of the book.
Captain Bray, a decorated war hero, had lost his memory after a particularly ghastly battle in which he distinguished himself and rescued several of his men. Meanwhile, the captain’s brother, Edgar, is on his way to visit his injured brother; Lord and Lady Montfort have to deal with the murder and break the horrible news.
Tragic though it is, the subsequent scene in which Mrs. Jackson interviews the young nurse who finds the victim sets up a (to me) very interesting fact - the war has allowed many young ladies from good families to suddenly experience a great deal of freedom, and this young nurse had a crush on the captain. Mrs. Jackson’s internal monologue about the gently-reared female staff she is trying to train as nurses (as opposed to “sturdy village girls”), is an insightful way of illustrating the massive societal changes the war is bringing about.
Lady Althea, Lady Montfort’s younger daughter, is leading the land girls in the county to get the harvest in; several of the farmers are shocked at the young women workers, and it provides a lot of humor for the modern reader just see how restricted young women were in Edwardian English society. Another interesting subtext is the role of conscientious objectors, and the rabid patriotism of the era, despite the horrendous casualties and conditions at the front.
I have been impressed by the series, because historical mysteries are my favorite genre, and I always have a couple favorite suspects halfway through these books, and I’m usually wrong - but in this case, my second choice did turn out to be the killer! Not too bad, but I wasn’t really sure until the last 20 pages or so - for a mystery buff, that tough of a puzzle makes for a good series!
The relationship between the two women has always fascinated me and that’s why I keep coming back to the series over and over again. I can’t wait for the next episode of the series, to see where author Tessa Arlen takes our two wonderful detectives.
I’ve always loved the Downton Abbey vibe in this series, and this book is no exception. Mrs. Jackson, despite now being employed by the Red Cross, still treats Lady M. with the greatest deference, and Lady M. is never too high in the instep to show her appreciation and respect for Mrs. Jackson’s acuity and insights. Their relationship is stronger than ever I was glad to see, despite the changes brought by the war.
Mrs. Jackson sums their relationship up brilliantly toward the end of the book in this internal observation as they discuss a knotty issue in the case, “If anyone will see a way, she will, her mind skips over the little things like practicalities and rules and she will see what my methodical thinking often misses.” They make a delightful team!
Shortly after this book opens, one of the officer/patients is found dead in the garden. Captain Bray enjoyed digging alone in the potato bed - one of the approaches pioneered by the hospital is for the patients to work around the home farm, along with undergoing talk therapy to recover from their traumatic war injuries. The author gives some interesting information about this in her author’s note at the end of the book.
Captain Bray, a decorated war hero, had lost his memory after a particularly ghastly battle in which he distinguished himself and rescued several of his men. Meanwhile, the captain’s brother, Edgar, is on his way to visit his injured brother; Lord and Lady Montfort have to deal with the murder and break the horrible news.
Tragic though it is, the subsequent scene in which Mrs. Jackson interviews the young nurse who finds the victim sets up a (to me) very interesting fact - the war has allowed many young ladies from good families to suddenly experience a great deal of freedom, and this young nurse had a crush on the captain. Mrs. Jackson’s internal monologue about the gently-reared female staff she is trying to train as nurses (as opposed to “sturdy village girls”), is an insightful way of illustrating the massive societal changes the war is bringing about.
Lady Althea, Lady Montfort’s younger daughter, is leading the land girls in the county to get the harvest in; several of the farmers are shocked at the young women workers, and it provides a lot of humor for the modern reader just see how restricted young women were in Edwardian English society. Another interesting subtext is the role of conscientious objectors, and the rabid patriotism of the era, despite the horrendous casualties and conditions at the front.
I have been impressed by the series, because historical mysteries are my favorite genre, and I always have a couple favorite suspects halfway through these books, and I’m usually wrong - but in this case, my second choice did turn out to be the killer! Not too bad, but I wasn’t really sure until the last 20 pages or so - for a mystery buff, that tough of a puzzle makes for a good series!
The relationship between the two women has always fascinated me and that’s why I keep coming back to the series over and over again. I can’t wait for the next episode of the series, to see where author Tessa Arlen takes our two wonderful detectives.
July 9, 2022
Posting this review means my time with this fantastic series is over, which is why I’ve delayed writing it.
I am a compulsive reader of historical mysteries. I have several favorite series, but my bar is HIGH. Tessa Arlan leapt over it for many reasons…
1️⃣ Realistic character roles for the time
Our main characters are a Countess (Clementine) and the housekeeper at her country manor home (Edith Jackson). They investigate murders, but they never become besties who sleuth side-by-side, as I’ve seen in a couple other series. In this fourth installment, Clementine has had the dowager house on the property turned in a rehabilitation hospital for shell-shocked WWI officers and Edith has taken a job running the hospital alongside military officers and some volunteers.
Two patients are murdered and our main characters used their different positions to track the killer. The scenes where they come together to exchange information have evolved over the course of the series, with them taking walks and sharing drinks in this story, but they are still acting in line with their respective classes.
2️⃣ Pacing
Murder mysteries sometimes rely on action scenes to build suspense, but that isn’t even needed here. The tension builds as Edith peels back layer upon layer and tracks down information. The action doesn’t need to be “on screen” when the story is constantly evolving.
If you’re used to mysteries with travel and adventure, this might feel slow, but I honestly found it enjoyable.
3️⃣ Humor
Oh, how I love Tessa Arlan’s skill at inserting humor into her writing. Clementine’s commentary is especially funny throughout the series, but shines in this fourth book. I’m not one to annotate my books, but I’d be tempted with this one.
I wish there were more to read, but I was satisfied with the very end, when further development of Edith and Ernie Stafford’s relationship is promised. I’d love to see where another book would take them and all of the beloved characters from this series, but they were sent off well.
I am a compulsive reader of historical mysteries. I have several favorite series, but my bar is HIGH. Tessa Arlan leapt over it for many reasons…
1️⃣ Realistic character roles for the time
Our main characters are a Countess (Clementine) and the housekeeper at her country manor home (Edith Jackson). They investigate murders, but they never become besties who sleuth side-by-side, as I’ve seen in a couple other series. In this fourth installment, Clementine has had the dowager house on the property turned in a rehabilitation hospital for shell-shocked WWI officers and Edith has taken a job running the hospital alongside military officers and some volunteers.
Two patients are murdered and our main characters used their different positions to track the killer. The scenes where they come together to exchange information have evolved over the course of the series, with them taking walks and sharing drinks in this story, but they are still acting in line with their respective classes.
2️⃣ Pacing
Murder mysteries sometimes rely on action scenes to build suspense, but that isn’t even needed here. The tension builds as Edith peels back layer upon layer and tracks down information. The action doesn’t need to be “on screen” when the story is constantly evolving.
If you’re used to mysteries with travel and adventure, this might feel slow, but I honestly found it enjoyable.
3️⃣ Humor
Oh, how I love Tessa Arlan’s skill at inserting humor into her writing. Clementine’s commentary is especially funny throughout the series, but shines in this fourth book. I’m not one to annotate my books, but I’d be tempted with this one.
I wish there were more to read, but I was satisfied with the very end, when further development of Edith and Ernie Stafford’s relationship is promised. I’d love to see where another book would take them and all of the beloved characters from this series, but they were sent off well.
November 30, 2018
Review Can Also Be Found Here: http://iwishilivedinalibrary.blogspot...
I do love a historical mystery and this series has landed in my To Read list. I loved the mix of upstairs and down, the strong and intelligent main characters, and the at times heartbreaking World War 1 element.
Mrs. Jackson and Lady Montfort May just be one of my favorite investing teams. While they’re both intelligent and observant their perspectives and knowledge is very different so they are really able to work together. As well their friendship and respect for each other feels incredibly genuine.
The mystery was very entertaining though it did have touches of tragedy as I spent more time around the officers that inhabit the hospital. There were a number of very clever clues and red herrings. This one kept me guessing but even better made me feel emotionally involved.
While this is the 4th book in the series I really had no trouble jumping in even from the beginning. This was really a delightful read and has me looking forward to reading more from the series.
I do love a historical mystery and this series has landed in my To Read list. I loved the mix of upstairs and down, the strong and intelligent main characters, and the at times heartbreaking World War 1 element.
Mrs. Jackson and Lady Montfort May just be one of my favorite investing teams. While they’re both intelligent and observant their perspectives and knowledge is very different so they are really able to work together. As well their friendship and respect for each other feels incredibly genuine.
The mystery was very entertaining though it did have touches of tragedy as I spent more time around the officers that inhabit the hospital. There were a number of very clever clues and red herrings. This one kept me guessing but even better made me feel emotionally involved.
While this is the 4th book in the series I really had no trouble jumping in even from the beginning. This was really a delightful read and has me looking forward to reading more from the series.
March 11, 2018
Series: Lady Montford Mystery #4
Publication Date: 3/13/18
Well, their carefully guarded secret is out. Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson solve mysteries, and they are very good at it! Everyone knows and smiles about it, but our erstwhile investigators aren’t aware that everyone knows. So, it is entertaining to see their reactions throughout the book when one person or another mentions their penchant for solving mysteries.
This book is just exactly what I’ve been wanting in the series, a glimpse of Lady Montford’s family – especially her husband. He’s been a shadow figure in the previous books and we had learned that he was tolerant of her investigations, etc. but we really didn’t know him. I was delighted to meet him and came to admire him greatly. He is every inch the gentleman, loves his family, loves his country, loves his wife and supports her in every way. I love their relationship. So, thank you, Ms. Arlen, for providing this view of Lord and Lady Montford and their children.
This story begins about two years after the last book ended – we are well into World War I. England’s citizens have geared up and patriotism is at an all-time high. Everybody is contributing – all of the horses have been conscripted and are serving on the continent just as the men are. At home, everyone’s attention is on growing food to feed the army and producing munitions and other items that are needed. Everyone pitches in, even the aristocracy. Not only is the son and heir to the Montford title serving as a pilot in the RAF (though he is home injured at the moment), the daughter is serving with the Women’s Land Army, and the parents have started a hospital, Haversham Hall Hospital, for the treatment of those who have been shell-shocked.
I love the history in the book, especially about the budding science of psychiatry for helping the shell-shocked victims of the war. All too often, those suffering from shell-shock were further tortured with electro-therapy and other ways of quickly getting them ‘well’ and back to the battlefield. The doctor’s at Haversham Hall Hospital used both talk therapy and a type of ergo therapy – which is basically performing everyday tasks – like farming, harvesting, gardening to help them work through their issues.
Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson are a formidable team when it comes to investigating crimes. They are so different, you would think that they’d never get along – but they are more friends than employer/employee. Lady Montford is more of an intuitive thinker and Mrs. Jackson is more of a logical step-by-step thinker. Their strengths play off each other and they soon solve whatever crime is at hand.
All crime stories require a victim, but I just hate that the victim required for this story was Captain Sir Evelyn Bray. It seems he had found himself during the war. He’d been a bit of a profligate before, but his bravery and leadership shone once he joined the military. He suffered a great injury during the Battle of Beauville Wood while he was trying to save the remaining men in his troops. When he awoke, he had no memory of who he was or what had happened. He was then sent to the Haversham Hall Hospital to see if Major Andrews could help him with his groundbreaking therapies. After only a few weeks, he was beginning to get his memory back. Then, he was murdered.
There are suspects aplenty in this mystery and you don’t want it to be any of those walking wounded at the hospital. Could it be someone on the staff? What about those individuals in the neighborhood who think the patients at the hospital are cowards who are shirking their duty rather than going back into battle where they belong. It is a twisted tale and you begin to wonder how in the world anyone will find the solution – but they do.
I can certainly recommend this book. I love the characters and plot. From early on, I had a good idea of who the culprit was and was anxious to see if I was right and if I was, to see how they did it.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 3/13/18
Well, their carefully guarded secret is out. Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson solve mysteries, and they are very good at it! Everyone knows and smiles about it, but our erstwhile investigators aren’t aware that everyone knows. So, it is entertaining to see their reactions throughout the book when one person or another mentions their penchant for solving mysteries.
This book is just exactly what I’ve been wanting in the series, a glimpse of Lady Montford’s family – especially her husband. He’s been a shadow figure in the previous books and we had learned that he was tolerant of her investigations, etc. but we really didn’t know him. I was delighted to meet him and came to admire him greatly. He is every inch the gentleman, loves his family, loves his country, loves his wife and supports her in every way. I love their relationship. So, thank you, Ms. Arlen, for providing this view of Lord and Lady Montford and their children.
This story begins about two years after the last book ended – we are well into World War I. England’s citizens have geared up and patriotism is at an all-time high. Everybody is contributing – all of the horses have been conscripted and are serving on the continent just as the men are. At home, everyone’s attention is on growing food to feed the army and producing munitions and other items that are needed. Everyone pitches in, even the aristocracy. Not only is the son and heir to the Montford title serving as a pilot in the RAF (though he is home injured at the moment), the daughter is serving with the Women’s Land Army, and the parents have started a hospital, Haversham Hall Hospital, for the treatment of those who have been shell-shocked.
I love the history in the book, especially about the budding science of psychiatry for helping the shell-shocked victims of the war. All too often, those suffering from shell-shock were further tortured with electro-therapy and other ways of quickly getting them ‘well’ and back to the battlefield. The doctor’s at Haversham Hall Hospital used both talk therapy and a type of ergo therapy – which is basically performing everyday tasks – like farming, harvesting, gardening to help them work through their issues.
Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson are a formidable team when it comes to investigating crimes. They are so different, you would think that they’d never get along – but they are more friends than employer/employee. Lady Montford is more of an intuitive thinker and Mrs. Jackson is more of a logical step-by-step thinker. Their strengths play off each other and they soon solve whatever crime is at hand.
All crime stories require a victim, but I just hate that the victim required for this story was Captain Sir Evelyn Bray. It seems he had found himself during the war. He’d been a bit of a profligate before, but his bravery and leadership shone once he joined the military. He suffered a great injury during the Battle of Beauville Wood while he was trying to save the remaining men in his troops. When he awoke, he had no memory of who he was or what had happened. He was then sent to the Haversham Hall Hospital to see if Major Andrews could help him with his groundbreaking therapies. After only a few weeks, he was beginning to get his memory back. Then, he was murdered.
There are suspects aplenty in this mystery and you don’t want it to be any of those walking wounded at the hospital. Could it be someone on the staff? What about those individuals in the neighborhood who think the patients at the hospital are cowards who are shirking their duty rather than going back into battle where they belong. It is a twisted tale and you begin to wonder how in the world anyone will find the solution – but they do.
I can certainly recommend this book. I love the characters and plot. From early on, I had a good idea of who the culprit was and was anxious to see if I was right and if I was, to see how they did it.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
March 29, 2018
I never caught Downton Abbey fever, but I do find that slice of history interesting. For fans of the TV series, however, Death of an Unsung Hero would be a must read. Set in on an English manor in the early 1900's, this story revolves around a country hospital where WWI soldiers come to be healed of their 'shell-shock.' When one of the soldiers is murdered, it's up to Lady Montfort and her trusty housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, to solve the mystery.
Mrs. Jackson and Lady Montfort make an excellent pair of sleuths. I loved how they worked together as friends despite their different stations in life. I could almost see their eyes light up at the chance to solve a mystery. Both characters complimented each other very well. The secondary characters, too, were charming. They were fun without being silly, and progressive without being pompous. In fact, I would have loved to attend one of the family's dinner parties.
The mystery was quite satisfactory. The clues were nicely laid out, and although I didn't guess the ending, it didn't come as a complete surprise, either. I liked that the murder wasn't excessively grisly or the villain overly evil. Although I don't mind a gritty read, it's nice to have a story that isn't a blood bath.
The history behind the story seemed very well researched. I've read other books about WWI soldiers suffering from PTSD, and Death of an Unsung Hero fell in line with what I knew about psychological treatments of that time. Also, the attitudes of those in society who felt that the soldiers were cowards for seeking asylum in a hospital was fascinating. In fact, the history was one of the most interesting parts of the story.
One thing that I found confusing, however, were the number of characters that I had to keep up with. Lady Montford's family wasn't too difficult since there were only four of them, but there were many minor characters. At times, I had a hard time determining who was who. The way the story was written also occasionally flummoxed me. The book was written in a more old fashioned way, and there were times when I had to re-read a sentence in order to understand it.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The mystery and characters were solid. I would definitely read other books in this series.
Mrs. Jackson and Lady Montfort make an excellent pair of sleuths. I loved how they worked together as friends despite their different stations in life. I could almost see their eyes light up at the chance to solve a mystery. Both characters complimented each other very well. The secondary characters, too, were charming. They were fun without being silly, and progressive without being pompous. In fact, I would have loved to attend one of the family's dinner parties.
The mystery was quite satisfactory. The clues were nicely laid out, and although I didn't guess the ending, it didn't come as a complete surprise, either. I liked that the murder wasn't excessively grisly or the villain overly evil. Although I don't mind a gritty read, it's nice to have a story that isn't a blood bath.
The history behind the story seemed very well researched. I've read other books about WWI soldiers suffering from PTSD, and Death of an Unsung Hero fell in line with what I knew about psychological treatments of that time. Also, the attitudes of those in society who felt that the soldiers were cowards for seeking asylum in a hospital was fascinating. In fact, the history was one of the most interesting parts of the story.
One thing that I found confusing, however, were the number of characters that I had to keep up with. Lady Montford's family wasn't too difficult since there were only four of them, but there were many minor characters. At times, I had a hard time determining who was who. The way the story was written also occasionally flummoxed me. The book was written in a more old fashioned way, and there were times when I had to re-read a sentence in order to understand it.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The mystery and characters were solid. I would definitely read other books in this series.
February 4, 2018
Death of an Unsung Hero by Tessa Arlen was a fascinating mystery set in England during World War I. Although this is the first book I have read in this series, I had no problems as Ms. Arlen provided the background of each of the characters and there were only slight references to the previous books. The descriptive writing of Iyntwood estate, the surrounding countryside and Haversham Hall allowed me to feel like I was there with Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson has they investigated.
The plot is smoothly paced with twists and turns, red herrings, two murders but only a few suspects. The investigation by Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson involved both the current events and people but the past as well. It also showcased the many societal changes as women are stepping out of traditional roles to assist in the war effort which naturally effected class and society as England knew it before 1914. There was actually more than one mystery to be solved in this book and both were resolved satisfactorily.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Minotaur Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
The plot is smoothly paced with twists and turns, red herrings, two murders but only a few suspects. The investigation by Lady Montford and Mrs. Jackson involved both the current events and people but the past as well. It also showcased the many societal changes as women are stepping out of traditional roles to assist in the war effort which naturally effected class and society as England knew it before 1914. There was actually more than one mystery to be solved in this book and both were resolved satisfactorily.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Minotaur Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
July 13, 2018
"What a tale! What a frightful story of betrayal and cowardice."
Apparently, my infatuation with "all things Downton Abbey" hasn't fizzled out yet. Edwardian England glamour has still a strong hold on my reading preferences: my expectations in terms of authenticity of historical setting and language were not disappointed. Boldly reminiscent of Julian Fellowes' popular drama (season 2 in particular), Tessa Arlen's streamlined narration features a dynamic sleuths duo (a landlady and her housekeeper) and consistently shows robust knowledge of time period and historical events. An engrossing read.
Apparently, my infatuation with "all things Downton Abbey" hasn't fizzled out yet. Edwardian England glamour has still a strong hold on my reading preferences: my expectations in terms of authenticity of historical setting and language were not disappointed. Boldly reminiscent of Julian Fellowes' popular drama (season 2 in particular), Tessa Arlen's streamlined narration features a dynamic sleuths duo (a landlady and her housekeeper) and consistently shows robust knowledge of time period and historical events. An engrossing read.
March 13, 2018
Lady Montfort is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. As with the others in the series, this book too is well written, and well researched. The two main characters, Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are wonderful. They're not young, they have believable connections, and more importantly when it comes to intelligent women in an age when they couldn't be independent, believable prejudices.
This book is set in the middle of the Great War. Lady Montfort, who wants to do her bit for the war, has opened up Haversham Hall to the care of officers suffering from shell-shock. Not everyone is compassionate to these soldiers, most people call them cowards and malingerers. And in the middle of all this, one of these poor officers is murdered. The local constabulary seems to look for the easiest possible person to pin the crime on, but Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are not satisfied.
I liked the mystery enough, although I did think that the ladies took a different approach than I expected them to - they spent a long time on how, rather than why. I like the characters that populate this series better than the mystery, so this is no more than a by the way. And in any case, they do get results. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
This book is set in the middle of the Great War. Lady Montfort, who wants to do her bit for the war, has opened up Haversham Hall to the care of officers suffering from shell-shock. Not everyone is compassionate to these soldiers, most people call them cowards and malingerers. And in the middle of all this, one of these poor officers is murdered. The local constabulary seems to look for the easiest possible person to pin the crime on, but Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are not satisfied.
I liked the mystery enough, although I did think that the ladies took a different approach than I expected them to - they spent a long time on how, rather than why. I like the characters that populate this series better than the mystery, so this is no more than a by the way. And in any case, they do get results. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
May 22, 2018
I’ve loved all the novels in Tessa Arlen’s Downtonesque Murder Mystery series. Like its predecessors, DEATH OF AN UNSUNG HERO has a gripping plot that keeps you turning pages, much gorgeous writing – I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the English countryside in summer – and it is rich in period detail.
Haversham Hall Hospital has been opened on Lyntwood Estate to treat shell shocked soldiers. With an inspection by the War Office imminent, Captain Bray, one of the patients, is found murdered in the vegetable garden. Lady Montfort and her formidable housekeeper, Mrs Jackson, set to work to solve the crime and bring the culprit to justice. These amateur detectives are brilliantly drawn: intelligent and empathetic. In this novel, Arlen gives us more of a glimpse of Lady Mountfort’s family, which I enjoyed. She skilfully interweaves the micro story of the murder mystery with the macro history of World War 1: land girls are running the farms, and psychiatry for helping shell-shocked soldiers is in its infancy.
This is a wonderful series - I look forward to seeing what Ms Arlen comes up with next.
Haversham Hall Hospital has been opened on Lyntwood Estate to treat shell shocked soldiers. With an inspection by the War Office imminent, Captain Bray, one of the patients, is found murdered in the vegetable garden. Lady Montfort and her formidable housekeeper, Mrs Jackson, set to work to solve the crime and bring the culprit to justice. These amateur detectives are brilliantly drawn: intelligent and empathetic. In this novel, Arlen gives us more of a glimpse of Lady Mountfort’s family, which I enjoyed. She skilfully interweaves the micro story of the murder mystery with the macro history of World War 1: land girls are running the farms, and psychiatry for helping shell-shocked soldiers is in its infancy.
This is a wonderful series - I look forward to seeing what Ms Arlen comes up with next.
November 13, 2017
Arlen's series, the Lady Montford Mysteries, is a sheer delight, and this new story is the best yet. Arlen aptly mixes upstairs and downstairs at a critical period of societal flux. Lady Montford and her capable partner, housekeeper Mrs. Jackson, are now involved in the new role of the dower house as a military hospital for the shell-shocked officers of WWI. Jackson is the administrator of the hospital and thoroughly enjoying her work. Lady Montford has her son at home, seriously depressed at his inability to rejoin the fighting as a pilot while recovering from an injury. Lady Althea, on the other hand, is relishing her job in organizing the local Land Girls, much to the dismay of her mother who is concerned about the changing ways of young people during war time.
Arlen has done an impeccable job in researching the work of the home front and the varieties of war trauma, both physical and mental, for this period. The writing is so excellent than these authentic observations and descriptions are embedded into the plot and characters seamlessly and vividly bring these realities to the reader. And the plot is intriguing - the murder of one of the traumatized officers in the garden of the hospital. Lady Montford and Mrs. Hardcastle go right to work on this new mystery, bringing Jackson's methodical mind and research abilities and Lady Montford's lively brillance into a shocking resolution of the case. Well done!
Arlen has done an impeccable job in researching the work of the home front and the varieties of war trauma, both physical and mental, for this period. The writing is so excellent than these authentic observations and descriptions are embedded into the plot and characters seamlessly and vividly bring these realities to the reader. And the plot is intriguing - the murder of one of the traumatized officers in the garden of the hospital. Lady Montford and Mrs. Hardcastle go right to work on this new mystery, bringing Jackson's methodical mind and research abilities and Lady Montford's lively brillance into a shocking resolution of the case. Well done!
Read
March 2, 2018If you enjoy historical mysteries, especially those set in England, this series is not to be missed. This is the fourth entry and the time is 1916. Private residences are being offered as hospitals for the wounded but, in this case, the wounds are not on the outside and that is the focus of this mystery. Lady Montfort has persuaded her husband to turn over part of their estate to the War Office as a sanctuary for soldiers suffering from PTSD which they called shell shock. Others in the surrounding community call these men cowards and treat them as such. When two of these men are murdered the police are quick to close the case as is't clear to them that they turned on each other in some kind of rage due to their mental state. Lady Montfort and her housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson see the situation very differently and set about to find the killer before the hospital is shut down.
This is one of my favorite periods as it brings about so many huge changes to all levels of society, for everybody, especially for women. If you are a fan of the Murdoch mysteries, Downton Abbey and Rennie Airth, this series is not to be missed. The research is done in great depth and the voice and pace are pitch perfect. I have no hesitation giving this series a five star rating.
My thanks to the publisher Minotaur and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is one of my favorite periods as it brings about so many huge changes to all levels of society, for everybody, especially for women. If you are a fan of the Murdoch mysteries, Downton Abbey and Rennie Airth, this series is not to be missed. The research is done in great depth and the voice and pace are pitch perfect. I have no hesitation giving this series a five star rating.
My thanks to the publisher Minotaur and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
April 3, 2018
Another good entry in the Lady Montfort/Mrs. Jackson mystery series. War has come to Iyntwood, and with it, big changes. Mrs. Jackson is now in the VAD and assigned as quartermaster at the Haversham Hall hospital, the dower house at Iyntwood. The hospital has been set up by the Earl of Montfort and Lady Montfort, and specializes in treating servicemen with neurasthenia, or shell shock. And, a murder has occurred. One of the patients has been found dead in the vegetable garden. Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson set out to find the perpetrator, while dealing with the prejudices and ignorance of many of their neighbors that the patients are malingerers and cowards.
I liked the way the characters in the book have matured in their new roles, as British Society undergoes sweeping changes during WW I. The mystery was good, even though I had figured out the perpetrator before the end of the book. I just enjoy spending time with these two capable women.
I liked the way the characters in the book have matured in their new roles, as British Society undergoes sweeping changes during WW I. The mystery was good, even though I had figured out the perpetrator before the end of the book. I just enjoy spending time with these two capable women.
March 14, 2018
I haven't read the other 3 books in the series but I definitely will be! I love a good cozy mystery and this series is definitely one!!
This story picks back up in WWI England, where Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson (her partner in crime, pardon the pun) are solving mysteries. According to other reviews I've read, we're finding out more about Lady Montfort's husband, who hasn't been really touched on in the other books.
This story and this whole series is great for any person who likes a good, historical mystery, and a great escape from the real world. This book takes you back to the 1910s and what life was truly like in England at the height of WWI.
This story picks back up in WWI England, where Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson (her partner in crime, pardon the pun) are solving mysteries. According to other reviews I've read, we're finding out more about Lady Montfort's husband, who hasn't been really touched on in the other books.
This story and this whole series is great for any person who likes a good, historical mystery, and a great escape from the real world. This book takes you back to the 1910s and what life was truly like in England at the height of WWI.
April 15, 2018
First book I have read in this series. This one is set in mid-WW1, in a "Downton Abbey" world, where officers with shell shock are being treated in the Dower House. Murder of one of them, in the straited situation of few qualified policemen, as well as few servants & farm workers, provides challenges & opportunities for Lady Monfort and her housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, to solve the murder before the police arrest one of their patients without evidence. They also need to do it before the planned visit, within days, of the Medical Review board to assess whether or not they should be allowed to continue to provide care and treatment as they have been for these officers. Then another officer patient is murdered. Many plot twists and turns, within the era of the First World War, including incorporating societal changes with such massive shifts of men and boys into the war, and women into roles males had traditionally been occupying, and further shifts from the agrarian settings with the massive "conscription & seizure" of most of the horses, including the draft horses, into the overseas war effort.
Started reading yesterday when I needed a little break before finishing Mankell's "After the Fire" novel. It served the purpose admirably. At the end of the book, the author provided information about the historical basis for some of the settings used in the book, and some of the characters and treatments described.
Started reading yesterday when I needed a little break before finishing Mankell's "After the Fire" novel. It served the purpose admirably. At the end of the book, the author provided information about the historical basis for some of the settings used in the book, and some of the characters and treatments described.
March 19, 2018
I gave this book four stars because the author always manages to surprise me in solving the mystery detailed so well in this book. I was positive I had solved “who done it” before I was even halfway through the book. In fact, I was slightly bored and feeling superior because I thought this particular mystery was relatively easy to figure out. Needless to say, I had forgotten the author is often deceptively simple in the beginning, just waiting to lay out the twist that dashes all your previous conclusions. And this particular twist included an additional murder that blew away all my previous ideas. This novel also deals with the aftereffects of PTSD, or shell shock as it was known in this time period of WWI. It effectively details the divisive opinions regarding the very real psychological illness that affects trauma patients and how this divided not only a country, but families as well. Tessa Arlen’s books are so very well written I encourage you to pick up any of the Lady Montfort mysteries and share in the vivid description of this fascinating “Downton Abbey” time period in the UK.
February 27, 2018
In 1916 little was understood of the nature of ptsd or “shell shock” as it was called. In Death of an Unsung Hero, the plot centers around a group of young officers being treated at a hospital sponsored by the energetic Lady Montfort and administered by her capable friend, Mrs. Jackson. As you might expect, trouble comes in the form of the murder of an amnesiac Captain Bray. It’s all too easy for the police to wish to lay blame on a fellow patient closing the class quickly. Lady Montfort doesn’t believe the situation is so straightforward, and enlists the assistance of Mrs. Jackson to find the real killer. The women have solved crimes before, and this time they have the hospital to protect.
Death of an Unsung Hero is an excellent period mystery, adroitly describing life in Britain during World War I. Both Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson are strong, capable women, embodying the attitudes of the times. The puzzle is an intriguing one. If you like historical mysteries, Tessa Arlen’s Death of an Unsung Hero is an excellent choice.
5 / 5
I received a copy of Death of an Unsung Hero from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
— Crittermom
Death of an Unsung Hero is an excellent period mystery, adroitly describing life in Britain during World War I. Both Lady Montfort and Mrs Jackson are strong, capable women, embodying the attitudes of the times. The puzzle is an intriguing one. If you like historical mysteries, Tessa Arlen’s Death of an Unsung Hero is an excellent choice.
5 / 5
I received a copy of Death of an Unsung Hero from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
— Crittermom
April 17, 2018
Solid fourth entry in the Lady Montfort series. The tale dragged a bit in the middle but redeemed itself with plenty of twisty final revelations. I enjoy the time period and English setting.
Read
May 19, 2018One of the better historical novels I've read.
April 5, 2018
This is yet another delightful installment of the Lady Montfort mystery series by gifted writer Tessa Arlen. I love books based on historical fact where the author does a goodly amount of research. This one certainly did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more stories by Ms. Arlen.
April 8, 2018
This engaging tale, of murder done at a WWI convalescent hospital, is thoroughly entertaining. Our lades from the series are back, Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson. Mrs. Jackson doesn't seem quite as reticent as previously, and so our intrepid duo sit, compare their notes and impressions, and solve the crimes -- despite having an incompetent copper put his foot in it early on. Luckily, the Chief Constable isn't quite as pig-headed, although he is determined to pretty much ignore what the ladies are capable of. It is ever thus, for female sleuths of the first part of the 20th century.
What Tessa Arlen manages to convey with her characters, dialog and plot is a complete understanding of time and place, the most important ingredient in a historical mystery, even as the reader is saddened by the treatment afforded to the hospital patients from the locals. She uses the history of the time as a backdrop, which only adds to the poignant setting (an author's note at the book's final pages gives further information).
I could have done with a lot less interior dialog. What Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson were thinking about everything (and each other) could have been conveyed in a lighter and far less frequent fashion. But it's a minor quibble.
Eventually, our mystery is wrapped up, by "gathering everyone in the drawing room" which affords a neat finish. Hopefully readers will be on to the next adventure very soon.
I received my copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What Tessa Arlen manages to convey with her characters, dialog and plot is a complete understanding of time and place, the most important ingredient in a historical mystery, even as the reader is saddened by the treatment afforded to the hospital patients from the locals. She uses the history of the time as a backdrop, which only adds to the poignant setting (an author's note at the book's final pages gives further information).
I could have done with a lot less interior dialog. What Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson were thinking about everything (and each other) could have been conveyed in a lighter and far less frequent fashion. But it's a minor quibble.
Eventually, our mystery is wrapped up, by "gathering everyone in the drawing room" which affords a neat finish. Hopefully readers will be on to the next adventure very soon.
I received my copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2018
This is a wonderful WWI mystery novel. This is the first one that I have read in this series but it was okay because I was able to figure out who all the people were in this series. I really loved Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson. They are great at solving mysteries. I look forward to reading many more of these stories. I received a copy of this book from Minotaur books for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
April 17, 2020
I absolutely love this series by Tessa Arlen. The characters come to life in my imagination and I am always delightfully surprised by the plot twists! As was the case with her other books, I could not put this one down until I reached the end. Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are an unstoppable team!
January 4, 2018
This is probably my favorite so far! This time around, two years since the last book, war is raging on. Lady Montfort decides to put her house in Haversham for war use, much to the chagrin of her neighbors and friends because the house offers aids to those who are facing the aftereffects of war. Until a body of a general is found on the grounds, and the hospital is due for a checkup Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson are out for the chase. I enjoyed the mystery and loved that the whole family gets together in this book. We already met Henry but we finally get to meet Lady Althea! Henry isn't the same after being in the war as a pilot, and Althea's character is introduced as an adventurous spirit and an advocate for the land girls much to Clementine's dismay. There was also a feeling of change throughout the book, a change between a society with rules and class ...to one without barriers even Clementine and Mrs. Jackson can feel this shift.
My only con for this book wasn't towards the story or writing but for a character, Inspector who shall not be named (you'll understand once you read the book) was brazen, intimidating and downright distasteful.
Overall I recommend this book especially if you read up until book 3! If you love historical fiction mystery novels with duo heroines then this ones for you!
My only con for this book wasn't towards the story or writing but for a character, Inspector who shall not be named (you'll understand once you read the book) was brazen, intimidating and downright distasteful.
Overall I recommend this book especially if you read up until book 3! If you love historical fiction mystery novels with duo heroines then this ones for you!
July 6, 2018
Clementine, Countess of Montfort, has responded to World War I by converting the Dower House on her husband's estate into a psychiatric hospital (for officers, of course). Her housekeeper, Mrs. Jackson, has been named as administrator. Jackson needed some time to realize that the "talking cure" was really helping these badly shell-shocked men, but many others in the little farming community think the men are malingerers and cowards. When one is found murdered, Jackson and Lady Montfort and Jackson once again get together to solve the crime, before the Army decides to shut down the hospital. A second murder ups the urgency of their work. I really do enjoy this series.
December 11, 2018
Another solid entry in this delightful series—it really has all the ingredients I love in a mystery: a grand country estate, well-researched historical setting and details, compelling characters, exciting mystery.... and I love the map and cast of characters; I wish every mystery had those!
April 29, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/de...
Death of an Unsung Hero
Lady Montfort, Book #4
By Tessa Arlen
ISBN# 9781250101440
Author’s website: tessaarlen.com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Lady Montfort and her pragmatic housekeeper Mrs. Jackson investigate a murder of a WWI officer with amnesia in the 20th-century English countryside.
In 1916, the world is at war and the energetic Lady Montfort has persuaded her husband to offer the dower house to the War Office as an auxiliary hospital for officers recovering from shell-shock with their redoubtable housekeeper Mrs. Jackson contributing to the war effort as the hospital’s quartermaster.
Despite the hospital’s success, the farming community of Haversham, led by the Montfort’s neighbor Sir Winchell Meacham, does not approve of a country-house hospital for men they consider to be cowards. When Sir Evelyn Bray, one of the patients, is found lying face down in the garden with his head bashed in, both Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson have every reason to fear that the War Office will close their hospital. Once again the two women unite their diverse talents to discover who would have reason to murder a war hero suffering from amnesia.
Review:
Tessa Arlan’s Lady Montfort mystery series gets better with each book release, and Death of an Unsung Hero is everything you could want in a historical mystery. Full of well researched rich, historical detail, interesting and well developed characters, and a murder mystery with plenty of suspects and twisty revelations, it is a satisfying trip to WWI era England.
Death of an Unsung Hero takes place two years after the last book in the series, Death by Any Other Name. It is 1916 and World War I is in full force, but the ramifications of war are only beginning to be apparent. Lord and Lady Montfort volunteer Haversham Hall as a hospital for soldiers, those suffering the effects of shell shock, until they are cleared to return to active duty. Not everyone is happy about the auxiliary hospital in their backyard, but the doctors are confident that their therapies will help the wounded recover. I found this early look at psychiatric therapy fascinating. When one of the patients, Cpt. Sir Evelyn Bray is murdered, the unlikely and dynamic team of Lady Montfort and her housekeeper turned hospital maven Mrs. Jackson are on the case, and time is of the essence to find answers before the War Office arrives for the hospital’s inspection. The investigation leads them to more murders and a secret that the murderer is willing to kill to keep.
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series and feel like I have gotten to know Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson fairly well, but the periphery characters, mostly the family, have remained thinly veiled. In this book, we get to see much more of two of Lady Montfort’s children, as well as Lord Montfort, and I enjoyed the family dynamic. Lord Montfort is quite supportive of the pair’s investigating and endearing in his obvious affection for his wife. Son Harry is on leave recovering from a broken arm, but he too has some inner demons that have followed him home. Lady Althea is finding herself in the freedom that the war has necessitated leading the local ladies land effort. I am confident that Lady Montfort’s inner dialogue about her concerns for her daughter’s activities and dress are true to aristocratic mothers of the era.
Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson make a good team. Where Mrs. Jackson is practical and logical, Lady Montfort is more intuitive. Each is able to use their places in society to their investigating advantage, and their strengths play well off of each other. As I learned more about Cpt. Bray, I felt sorry that his life was needlessly cut short. An irresponsible playboy before the war, he found his calling as a leader and was a war hero before his untimely death. Though the other hospital patients are suspects, I really rooted for them all to be innocent. The mystery unfolds at a mostly steady pace, though it does lag a bit in the middle, only to reach an exciting revelation at the end.
I enjoyed Death of an Unsung Hero and recommend it to any fan of historical mysteries.
Death of an Unsung Hero
Lady Montfort, Book #4
By Tessa Arlen
ISBN# 9781250101440
Author’s website: tessaarlen.com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
Lady Montfort and her pragmatic housekeeper Mrs. Jackson investigate a murder of a WWI officer with amnesia in the 20th-century English countryside.
In 1916, the world is at war and the energetic Lady Montfort has persuaded her husband to offer the dower house to the War Office as an auxiliary hospital for officers recovering from shell-shock with their redoubtable housekeeper Mrs. Jackson contributing to the war effort as the hospital’s quartermaster.
Despite the hospital’s success, the farming community of Haversham, led by the Montfort’s neighbor Sir Winchell Meacham, does not approve of a country-house hospital for men they consider to be cowards. When Sir Evelyn Bray, one of the patients, is found lying face down in the garden with his head bashed in, both Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson have every reason to fear that the War Office will close their hospital. Once again the two women unite their diverse talents to discover who would have reason to murder a war hero suffering from amnesia.
Review:
Tessa Arlan’s Lady Montfort mystery series gets better with each book release, and Death of an Unsung Hero is everything you could want in a historical mystery. Full of well researched rich, historical detail, interesting and well developed characters, and a murder mystery with plenty of suspects and twisty revelations, it is a satisfying trip to WWI era England.
Death of an Unsung Hero takes place two years after the last book in the series, Death by Any Other Name. It is 1916 and World War I is in full force, but the ramifications of war are only beginning to be apparent. Lord and Lady Montfort volunteer Haversham Hall as a hospital for soldiers, those suffering the effects of shell shock, until they are cleared to return to active duty. Not everyone is happy about the auxiliary hospital in their backyard, but the doctors are confident that their therapies will help the wounded recover. I found this early look at psychiatric therapy fascinating. When one of the patients, Cpt. Sir Evelyn Bray is murdered, the unlikely and dynamic team of Lady Montfort and her housekeeper turned hospital maven Mrs. Jackson are on the case, and time is of the essence to find answers before the War Office arrives for the hospital’s inspection. The investigation leads them to more murders and a secret that the murderer is willing to kill to keep.
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series and feel like I have gotten to know Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson fairly well, but the periphery characters, mostly the family, have remained thinly veiled. In this book, we get to see much more of two of Lady Montfort’s children, as well as Lord Montfort, and I enjoyed the family dynamic. Lord Montfort is quite supportive of the pair’s investigating and endearing in his obvious affection for his wife. Son Harry is on leave recovering from a broken arm, but he too has some inner demons that have followed him home. Lady Althea is finding herself in the freedom that the war has necessitated leading the local ladies land effort. I am confident that Lady Montfort’s inner dialogue about her concerns for her daughter’s activities and dress are true to aristocratic mothers of the era.
Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson make a good team. Where Mrs. Jackson is practical and logical, Lady Montfort is more intuitive. Each is able to use their places in society to their investigating advantage, and their strengths play well off of each other. As I learned more about Cpt. Bray, I felt sorry that his life was needlessly cut short. An irresponsible playboy before the war, he found his calling as a leader and was a war hero before his untimely death. Though the other hospital patients are suspects, I really rooted for them all to be innocent. The mystery unfolds at a mostly steady pace, though it does lag a bit in the middle, only to reach an exciting revelation at the end.
I enjoyed Death of an Unsung Hero and recommend it to any fan of historical mysteries.
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