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Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate #3
The Hidden House Murders
It is 1934. Returning to the West Country after their latest adventure in London, lady’s maid Verity Hunter and cook Joan Hart are ready to embrace a quieter life. Their mistress, the glamorous young heiress Dorothy Drew, is attempting to rein in her enthusiasm for too many cocktails and takes up the offer of a place to rest and recuperate from an old family friend, Mrs Ashford. All seems well, until the day after they arrive, when everyone in the house is struck down by what appears to be mushroom poisoning.
The deadly dish proves fatal for one unlucky soul. As Verity and Joan begin to delve deeper into the tangled relationships of the Ashford family and their guests, it becomes apparent that too many people have secrets to keep… some of which are worth killing for…
The Hidden House Murders is the third book in the historical mystery series, Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate, by crime writer Celina Grace, author of The Kate Redman Mysteries.
The deadly dish proves fatal for one unlucky soul. As Verity and Joan begin to delve deeper into the tangled relationships of the Ashford family and their guests, it becomes apparent that too many people have secrets to keep… some of which are worth killing for…
The Hidden House Murders is the third book in the historical mystery series, Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate, by crime writer Celina Grace, author of The Kate Redman Mysteries.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2017
145 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Celina Grace
62 books454 followersI’ve been trying to get published as a writer since…. um… er…um…see, it was that long ago I can’t remember. A long time. I make it fifteen years and counting….
I’ve also been writing for as long as I can really remember. I wrote my first story, The Blue Ruby, when I was about seven (if I can find that deathless prose scribbled in an exercise book somewhere, I might upload it here for a bit of light relief). Throughout college and university, I experimented with screenplays and scripts (I was studying Film and English at the time at the University of East Anglia), as well as other more short stories. In my twenties, I started my first novel, finished it, then my second, then my third. In my thirties, I was slightly side-tracked by the birth of my son but, leaving aside that trifling distraction, managed to write my fourth..
I didn’t bother trying to get the first novel published as I saw it as more of a practise run at this business of being an author. With the second, I entered the 2004 Lit Idol competition and got to third place. That was my ticket to publication, I thought, surely? Hah! Just the first in a long line of disappointments, of which every writer must be familiar… hopes built up to then be smacked down again. I had an agent approach me after the competition and on their encouragement, I finished, edited and polished the manuscript, sent it off to them with happy hopes – to be told months later that they didn’t think it was quite right for them..
Gutted, but enthusiasm relatively undimmed, I started on a new novel, inspired in part by the dramatic events of 2005 – the London bombings. I also wrote a short story at the same time on the same subject – it was on my mind a lot that summer (unsurprisingly. Freedom Fighter is the story – available on Amazon as part of The Mourning After short story collection). This novel The House on Fever Street (written under my maiden name Celina Alcock) was shortlisted for the 2006 Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger Award. Aha, I thought, a fairly prestigious and industry recognised award. This will get me published. Did it? Did it buggery!.
The House on Fever Street was also longlisted in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award of that year, which garnered me some nice reviews and a much needed ego boost but didn’t advance my career as a published author much further..
So what next for our doughty heroine? She ups and writes her fourth novel, gains an agent and thinks now, now I have finally made it as a published author! And she waits. And waits. And waits some more. And then waits a bit more. And a bit more. Finally, for variety, she waits a bit more..
So, after two years of waiting, reading about self-publishing on Amazon and other platforms, I believe a phrase that ends in ‘…for a game of soldiers’ passed my lips and I decide to publish myself. So I did. And here I am on Amazon, making sales. No publisher. No agent. Just me..
And that makes me VERY happy.
I’ve also been writing for as long as I can really remember. I wrote my first story, The Blue Ruby, when I was about seven (if I can find that deathless prose scribbled in an exercise book somewhere, I might upload it here for a bit of light relief). Throughout college and university, I experimented with screenplays and scripts (I was studying Film and English at the time at the University of East Anglia), as well as other more short stories. In my twenties, I started my first novel, finished it, then my second, then my third. In my thirties, I was slightly side-tracked by the birth of my son but, leaving aside that trifling distraction, managed to write my fourth..
I didn’t bother trying to get the first novel published as I saw it as more of a practise run at this business of being an author. With the second, I entered the 2004 Lit Idol competition and got to third place. That was my ticket to publication, I thought, surely? Hah! Just the first in a long line of disappointments, of which every writer must be familiar… hopes built up to then be smacked down again. I had an agent approach me after the competition and on their encouragement, I finished, edited and polished the manuscript, sent it off to them with happy hopes – to be told months later that they didn’t think it was quite right for them..
Gutted, but enthusiasm relatively undimmed, I started on a new novel, inspired in part by the dramatic events of 2005 – the London bombings. I also wrote a short story at the same time on the same subject – it was on my mind a lot that summer (unsurprisingly. Freedom Fighter is the story – available on Amazon as part of The Mourning After short story collection). This novel The House on Fever Street (written under my maiden name Celina Alcock) was shortlisted for the 2006 Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger Award. Aha, I thought, a fairly prestigious and industry recognised award. This will get me published. Did it? Did it buggery!.
The House on Fever Street was also longlisted in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award of that year, which garnered me some nice reviews and a much needed ego boost but didn’t advance my career as a published author much further..
So what next for our doughty heroine? She ups and writes her fourth novel, gains an agent and thinks now, now I have finally made it as a published author! And she waits. And waits. And waits some more. And then waits a bit more. And a bit more. Finally, for variety, she waits a bit more..
So, after two years of waiting, reading about self-publishing on Amazon and other platforms, I believe a phrase that ends in ‘…for a game of soldiers’ passed my lips and I decide to publish myself. So I did. And here I am on Amazon, making sales. No publisher. No agent. Just me..
And that makes me VERY happy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 30, 2018
Joan and Verity are back in the country but where these ladies go murder is sure to follow. Joan is now the Cook and her first meal seems to cause a great deal of distress soon Inspector Marks, now given the first name of Tom, is on the case and he and Joan are pairing up to solve another murder.
Even being binge read this story holds up.
Vocab:
This is for Americans only I think
In the first book and this book Joan was peeling swedes. My American Kindle identified these as people who live in Sweden.... obviously this isn't a book about torture so I had to go to Bing and I learned....
In America we call swedes Rutabagas which are a hybrid of turnips and a breed of cabbage.... I have never eaten a Rutabaga
Even being binge read this story holds up.
Vocab:
This is for Americans only I think
In the first book and this book Joan was peeling swedes. My American Kindle identified these as people who live in Sweden.... obviously this isn't a book about torture so I had to go to Bing and I learned....
In America we call swedes Rutabagas which are a hybrid of turnips and a breed of cabbage.... I have never eaten a Rutabaga
November 22, 2017
** I would like to thank the author, Celina Grace, for my ARC of this novel. I chose to voluntarily leave a review. **
OH MY!! My heart is pounding and I'm squealing with delight at the stunning, exhilarating conclusion of this novel.
I love, love, love, love, LOVE the Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate series! (Did I put enough "love's" into that sentence?) This time around we see Joan and Verity move to Hidden House in the countryside along with Dorothy their mistress, who is recuperating from the dramas of the last novel. Joan is exited and very happy to be recommended by her to work there as Head Cook and we find both Joan and Verity marvelling at the respect they are shown in this smaller household.
Poor Joan - she seems to attract murders like it's a national sport and we see her finally revealing just how much she enjoys solving the mysteries and whether this perhaps is her calling. I won't rehash the synopsis as it's all there with the book info, but I will reveal that Joan and Verity realise that they won't be together forever and the intense sadness that will bring to both of them.
And who should have popped up towards the end of this novel? Why Detective Marks, of course! What will happen in the next installment of this wonderful historical mystery series? Will a romance be forged between Joan and Tom, (We finally have his first name!) and what DID happen to Joan's manuscript? (No spoilers here) All I know is that I can't wait to read what the author will reveal next. Highly, highly recommended for all Joan and Verity fans.
OH MY!! My heart is pounding and I'm squealing with delight at the stunning, exhilarating conclusion of this novel.
I love, love, love, love, LOVE the Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate series! (Did I put enough "love's" into that sentence?) This time around we see Joan and Verity move to Hidden House in the countryside along with Dorothy their mistress, who is recuperating from the dramas of the last novel. Joan is exited and very happy to be recommended by her to work there as Head Cook and we find both Joan and Verity marvelling at the respect they are shown in this smaller household.
Poor Joan - she seems to attract murders like it's a national sport and we see her finally revealing just how much she enjoys solving the mysteries and whether this perhaps is her calling. I won't rehash the synopsis as it's all there with the book info, but I will reveal that Joan and Verity realise that they won't be together forever and the intense sadness that will bring to both of them.
And who should have popped up towards the end of this novel? Why Detective Marks, of course! What will happen in the next installment of this wonderful historical mystery series? Will a romance be forged between Joan and Tom, (We finally have his first name!) and what DID happen to Joan's manuscript? (No spoilers here) All I know is that I can't wait to read what the author will reveal next. Highly, highly recommended for all Joan and Verity fans.
August 24, 2017
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is such a fun series. A good combination of humor and suspense. Joan and Verity have taken positions at the Hidden House. It should be nice, quiet job until a murder happens. Joan is quick to jump in and try to solve the mystery while Verity stays the voice of reason. Quick, fun and relaxing read. Very enjoyable.
June 30, 2023
Another really good cozy mystery in this series! Great characters.
September 7, 2017
Back in the country with Miss Dorothy Drew, lady’s maid Verity Hunter and cook Joan Hart, are working at Hidden House, the home of Mrs Ashford.
The next day the guests are struck down with suspected food posioning which could be the cause of at least one person's death.
Inspector Marks is brought in to investigate, and yet again he relies on Joan for inside help.
Really enjoyed this well-written, cozy mystery series with some lovely characters which just grow on you.
Received an Advanced Reader Copy
The next day the guests are struck down with suspected food posioning which could be the cause of at least one person's death.
Inspector Marks is brought in to investigate, and yet again he relies on Joan for inside help.
Really enjoyed this well-written, cozy mystery series with some lovely characters which just grow on you.
Received an Advanced Reader Copy
January 22, 2018
kindle unlimited, first came to notice in The Asharton Manor Mysteries Boxed Set (Books 1 - 4) but except for these {prequel in this set} the rest were so so or worse, as rated them as 4 set not really individually so individually was less than 3 really. Was giving the ones from this set a 3, but for different reasons; kept waiting for things to happen, and they either never did or were solved for the stupidest 'coincidences' or guesses or just put in as if someone had actually detected when had NOT. Didn't help any, review wise, to have figured it ALL out, anyway, long before the ending, which in this case was #3 about the same way of 'fluff and filler' to actual page count AND THIS was by far the WORST of the WORST, writer needs dictionary, thesuarus, spell check, just to possibly use the right spelling of the right word and/or synonym and not use words that only sound like the right one but actually are and have the same meaning...some actual plot, to keep up with what was said/done in actual plot so not contradictory, had said in previous books that was giving a 3 because eh, but should have been a 2, nope, should have read them all then gave them all the 1 deserved.
It is 1934. Returning to the West Country after their latest adventure in London, lady’s maid Verity Hunter and cook Joan Hart are ready to embrace a quieter life. Their mistress, the glamorous young heiress Dorothy Drew, is attempting to rein in her enthusiasm for too many cocktails and takes up the offer of a place to rest and recuperate from an old family friend, Mrs Ashford. All seems well, until the day after they arrive, when everyone in the house is struck down by what appears to be mushroom poisoning. The deadly dish proves fatal for one unlucky soul. As Verity and Joan begin to delve deeper into the tangled relationships of the Ashford family and their guests, it becomes apparent that too many people have secrets to keep… some of which are worth killing for
DEATH AT THE MANOR (PREQUEL NOVELLA) {also found as first of 4 set in Asharton Manor Mysteries Boxed 4 set}
MURDER AT MERISHAM LODGE (BOOK 1)
DEATH AT THE THEATRE (BOOK TWO)
Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate: Volume 1
THE HIDDEN HOUSE MURDERS (BOOK 3)
Death at the Manor (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 1)
A Prescription for Death (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 2)
The Rhythm of Murder (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 3)
Number Thirteen, Manor Close (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 4)
The Asharton Manor Mysteries Boxed Set (Books 1 - 4)
It is 1934. Returning to the West Country after their latest adventure in London, lady’s maid Verity Hunter and cook Joan Hart are ready to embrace a quieter life. Their mistress, the glamorous young heiress Dorothy Drew, is attempting to rein in her enthusiasm for too many cocktails and takes up the offer of a place to rest and recuperate from an old family friend, Mrs Ashford. All seems well, until the day after they arrive, when everyone in the house is struck down by what appears to be mushroom poisoning. The deadly dish proves fatal for one unlucky soul. As Verity and Joan begin to delve deeper into the tangled relationships of the Ashford family and their guests, it becomes apparent that too many people have secrets to keep… some of which are worth killing for
DEATH AT THE MANOR (PREQUEL NOVELLA) {also found as first of 4 set in Asharton Manor Mysteries Boxed 4 set}
MURDER AT MERISHAM LODGE (BOOK 1)
DEATH AT THE THEATRE (BOOK TWO)
Miss Hart and Miss Hunter Investigate: Volume 1
THE HIDDEN HOUSE MURDERS (BOOK 3)
Death at the Manor (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 1)
A Prescription for Death (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 2)
The Rhythm of Murder (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 3)
Number Thirteen, Manor Close (The Asharton Manor Mysteries Book 4)
The Asharton Manor Mysteries Boxed Set (Books 1 - 4)
August 16, 2017
Received an ARC for an honest review.
To start honest, this kind of mystery might not really be my cup-a-tea: I read Agatha Christie last when I was still reading in German (translation) only, maybe age 10 or 12 (1976, 1978).
The book takes place in England, but in the past (20th century), I think, which would prevent me from buying this, as I have long stopped reading most books playing too long ago in the past (with exceptions).
But I am paying for this with a review, so I will see how I like this (TANSTAAFL).
Well, better than expected. You feel like visiting the UK between the two Word-Wars, I think, cannot exactly pin the time down, as no real indication is given, they have cars, wireless, a telephone in the house with the need to call an operator (could also be before the first WW, but I guess that not many people had a Telephone way back then).
Very well done, even though I would have liked more suspense. You get to know how servants work and live their life in a wealthy household in the UK. There is lots of eating and tea-drinking, and even if the female servants-team Hunter / Hart try to solve the crime, work comes first, feeding their household, even the other servants. And, having been in the UK a few time during the 1980's for vacation, I can assist, that they still drink a lot of tea, so that is realistic.
The main women are very well described, deeply fleshed out, with the few man mostly described with an outline, but not very deep, only the inspector, which I understand was also in the book(s) before this one is more fleshed out, but not overly so, in comparison to the MC's.
The crime and solving is a lot like in the Agatha Christie books I remember from my childhood, with a rounding of all (surviving) people and staging a big reveal. Not really something I would buy today, I am sorry to say. But in exchange for a review, I must admit, it was very well written, with a certain insight in life at that time I did not expect.
So recommended 4 stars it is, if you want a lighter mystery, not much blood and I did not guess at any point what really happened. No sex, but that is to be expected, and you get a little romance thrown in, some real and some pretend. Having been in the mood for this certainly helped, else it would be a 3 star/recommended.
To start honest, this kind of mystery might not really be my cup-a-tea: I read Agatha Christie last when I was still reading in German (translation) only, maybe age 10 or 12 (1976, 1978).
The book takes place in England, but in the past (20th century), I think, which would prevent me from buying this, as I have long stopped reading most books playing too long ago in the past (with exceptions).
But I am paying for this with a review, so I will see how I like this (TANSTAAFL).
Well, better than expected. You feel like visiting the UK between the two Word-Wars, I think, cannot exactly pin the time down, as no real indication is given, they have cars, wireless, a telephone in the house with the need to call an operator (could also be before the first WW, but I guess that not many people had a Telephone way back then).
Very well done, even though I would have liked more suspense. You get to know how servants work and live their life in a wealthy household in the UK. There is lots of eating and tea-drinking, and even if the female servants-team Hunter / Hart try to solve the crime, work comes first, feeding their household, even the other servants. And, having been in the UK a few time during the 1980's for vacation, I can assist, that they still drink a lot of tea, so that is realistic.
The main women are very well described, deeply fleshed out, with the few man mostly described with an outline, but not very deep, only the inspector, which I understand was also in the book(s) before this one is more fleshed out, but not overly so, in comparison to the MC's.
The crime and solving is a lot like in the Agatha Christie books I remember from my childhood, with a rounding of all (surviving) people and staging a big reveal. Not really something I would buy today, I am sorry to say. But in exchange for a review, I must admit, it was very well written, with a certain insight in life at that time I did not expect.
So recommended 4 stars it is, if you want a lighter mystery, not much blood and I did not guess at any point what really happened. No sex, but that is to be expected, and you get a little romance thrown in, some real and some pretend. Having been in the mood for this certainly helped, else it would be a 3 star/recommended.
August 20, 2017
[Disclaimer: I received this book as a gift from the author, so it will not show as a verified purchase. As per usual, how I receive such books does not affect how I voluntarily review them.]
"I sighed. “I do. It’s just –oh…I can’t describe it. It’s almost as if…as if this is what I’m meant to do. I mean, if fate hadn’t meant me to do this, why do I keep getting mixed up in all these strange happenings?” Now Verity did grin. “Don’t ask me, Joanie. You’re just a magnet for murder!”
In this, the third Miss Hart and Miss Hunter book, Verity and Joan are off to another house that has a connection to Dorothy Drew, Verity's boss, who is in need of some time away from the temptations of city life. Joan is hastily hired on as a replacement cook in a bare bones all female staff presided over by Mrs.Ashcroft, an elderly lady who knows everything she needs to, a slightly more. Upset that her adopted daughter seems to have become infatuated with an improper gentleman, she threatens to cut her off should she actually become entwined with him. In the meantime, Dorothy, far from getting the "rest" she needs, becomes infatuated with another houseguest....it just gets so...1934
Joan and Verity get caught up in the case when first one and then two older women die. Because of connections with Inspector Thomas Marks of Scotland Yard in previous mysteries, Joan, more than Verity, keeps wondering if it's more than just accidents, but murder, and with both Tom and Verity to discuss it with, she soon finds that Hidden House doesn't mean you can get away with murder. Recommended.
"I sighed. “I do. It’s just –oh…I can’t describe it. It’s almost as if…as if this is what I’m meant to do. I mean, if fate hadn’t meant me to do this, why do I keep getting mixed up in all these strange happenings?” Now Verity did grin. “Don’t ask me, Joanie. You’re just a magnet for murder!”
In this, the third Miss Hart and Miss Hunter book, Verity and Joan are off to another house that has a connection to Dorothy Drew, Verity's boss, who is in need of some time away from the temptations of city life. Joan is hastily hired on as a replacement cook in a bare bones all female staff presided over by Mrs.Ashcroft, an elderly lady who knows everything she needs to, a slightly more. Upset that her adopted daughter seems to have become infatuated with an improper gentleman, she threatens to cut her off should she actually become entwined with him. In the meantime, Dorothy, far from getting the "rest" she needs, becomes infatuated with another houseguest....it just gets so...1934
Joan and Verity get caught up in the case when first one and then two older women die. Because of connections with Inspector Thomas Marks of Scotland Yard in previous mysteries, Joan, more than Verity, keeps wondering if it's more than just accidents, but murder, and with both Tom and Verity to discuss it with, she soon finds that Hidden House doesn't mean you can get away with murder. Recommended.
August 3, 2019
Another awesome addition to the Miss Hart & Miss Hunter series. I am totally enamored especially with Joan, which is understandable considering the story is told from her pov. In fact the last two stories Joan has taken the lead and Verity has stepped back and seemed very unhappy to be involved in both mysteries and even goes as far to say she isn't like Joan she doesn't enjoy these investigation like her friend does. I enjoyed the mystery and how the truth was eventually found out. I also thought the subtle romance between Joan and the Inspector to be very sweet and I was thrilled when he asked her out.
What I really like about this series is how Joan and Verity's jobs keep interrupting their investigations. How at times they are so busy cooking and taking care of their employer that they are unable to even think through the various clues and how at the end of the day they are so tired they fall asleep before they even have a chance to talk it over between themselves. It gives the story a very realistic feel and I can totally sympathize with them about such things. I was bummed to see that the author hasn't released anymore stories but I hope she is planning to because I have greatly enjoyed reading them!
What I really like about this series is how Joan and Verity's jobs keep interrupting their investigations. How at times they are so busy cooking and taking care of their employer that they are unable to even think through the various clues and how at the end of the day they are so tired they fall asleep before they even have a chance to talk it over between themselves. It gives the story a very realistic feel and I can totally sympathize with them about such things. I was bummed to see that the author hasn't released anymore stories but I hope she is planning to because I have greatly enjoyed reading them!
August 20, 2017
I received this ebook as a member of Celina Grace’s Advance Reader Group.
I have read (and bought) all the Kate Redman novels, but not these Miss Hart and Miss Hunter series.
That’s not a reflection of the quality, it’s simply because I’m more of a thriller girl, however, it made for a very enjoyable read, with some unexpected twists. The characters and locations have just enough description to feel solid and convincing, in a natural way – something I find often lacking in books. I’ve not read much set in the 1930’s, but it all seemed authentic, based on my recollection of my grandparents stories from that time.
In case you are interested
I give 5 stars to books I want to reread immediately and often buy as gifts after reading AND want to buy the whole of the author's back catalogue, (often I buy these in physical form too); 4 to ones I immediately want to buy the entire back history and 3 to books I enjoy but don't quite meet those criteria. If something doesn't at least meet a 3 star, then I won't review it - I don't have the skill or the talent to write so who am I to criticise someone who does.
I have read (and bought) all the Kate Redman novels, but not these Miss Hart and Miss Hunter series.
That’s not a reflection of the quality, it’s simply because I’m more of a thriller girl, however, it made for a very enjoyable read, with some unexpected twists. The characters and locations have just enough description to feel solid and convincing, in a natural way – something I find often lacking in books. I’ve not read much set in the 1930’s, but it all seemed authentic, based on my recollection of my grandparents stories from that time.
In case you are interested
I give 5 stars to books I want to reread immediately and often buy as gifts after reading AND want to buy the whole of the author's back catalogue, (often I buy these in physical form too); 4 to ones I immediately want to buy the entire back history and 3 to books I enjoy but don't quite meet those criteria. If something doesn't at least meet a 3 star, then I won't review it - I don't have the skill or the talent to write so who am I to criticise someone who does.
August 3, 2017
Joan and Verity move to Hidden House, a family home (out in the county away from London) of their mistress Dorothy, who will be arriving later that day or the next to recuperate and rest for a couple of months.
When Joan Is waken up in the middle of the night because everyone is ill. One person has died. It appears that the mushroom dish she made was not safe after all.
With the death of the Mrs. Ashford of the house. Some of the survivors listed in the will are not all happy about the results. Was her death not accidental after all? When another death occurs it's up the Joan to figure out what is going on in the Hidden House, or there may be even more deaths.
This was another fun mystery by Celina Grace. While lighter than her Kate Redman series, the Miss Hunter/Miss Hart mysteries are a well told set of books that draws you in and keeps you guessing as you have multiple suspects and never know what twist will happen next.
When Joan Is waken up in the middle of the night because everyone is ill. One person has died. It appears that the mushroom dish she made was not safe after all.
With the death of the Mrs. Ashford of the house. Some of the survivors listed in the will are not all happy about the results. Was her death not accidental after all? When another death occurs it's up the Joan to figure out what is going on in the Hidden House, or there may be even more deaths.
This was another fun mystery by Celina Grace. While lighter than her Kate Redman series, the Miss Hunter/Miss Hart mysteries are a well told set of books that draws you in and keeps you guessing as you have multiple suspects and never know what twist will happen next.
August 17, 2017
I don't typically read period pieces but I've thoroughly enjoyed this series. Joan and Verity are likable characters who have been lucky to land jobs as cook and lady's maid to Dorothy. Dorothy cares about the two women and treats them well.I love how Joan and Verity have developed such a wonderful relationship and are like sisters. While they are both involved in solving the crimes, Joan is the one with the most inquisitive mind and she drags Verity into the investigations. Like all of Celina Grace's books, the violence occurs 'off-stage'.which is fine by me. I'm so happy that Joan is pursuing her passion and that romance is blossoming. As always, the story is well-written and held my attention from page one. This series is reminiscent of Agatha Christie in time and place and the fact that most of the characters never suspect how intelligent Joan and Verity truly are. I definitely recommend reading the series.
September 9, 2017
Things go bump in the night of a new home!!!!!!
20 stars!
I am still reeling from this book I just read. The things that Joan Hart and Verity Hunter have encountered working at various homes is mind boggling.
Joan is a magnet to solving crimes, this time they have moved to get their mistress, Miss Dorothy some rest from London, and walk into, jealousy, control, fiance trouble, secrets being kept, poisoning, murder, and inheritance.
ALOT of people with all these things going on, to want the same thing, but try to get it in different ways.
Inspector Marks returns to have Miss Hart to help.
You are going to have to read this book for details, because their is too much to try and tell you about without ruining the book.
YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!!!!!
BRAVO!!!!!!!! Me. Celina Grace, I can't wait to read the next book, to see where Miss Hart and Miss Hunter go from here.
20 stars!
I am still reeling from this book I just read. The things that Joan Hart and Verity Hunter have encountered working at various homes is mind boggling.
Joan is a magnet to solving crimes, this time they have moved to get their mistress, Miss Dorothy some rest from London, and walk into, jealousy, control, fiance trouble, secrets being kept, poisoning, murder, and inheritance.
ALOT of people with all these things going on, to want the same thing, but try to get it in different ways.
Inspector Marks returns to have Miss Hart to help.
You are going to have to read this book for details, because their is too much to try and tell you about without ruining the book.
YOU WON'T BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!!!!!
BRAVO!!!!!!!! Me. Celina Grace, I can't wait to read the next book, to see where Miss Hart and Miss Hunter go from here.
November 28, 2017
I loved this book, and it is the third in the series. The first in the series was good, and re-introduced us to characters we met in one of her previous books, it allowed us a larger look at our two "servant" girls.
Each book gets better and better as we get to know the characters better and start to hope for things to come and this book seems to have gotten everything bang-on.
Back in the country murder again finds our heroine Joan in the middle of a murder case, and as usuall cannot resist trying to solve it, partly I think, because of Detective Inspector Marks!
To me these books are not about the who-dun-its, although they are well written fun and hard to solve, as much as developing great characters and their relationships with the readers.
I look forward to the next so I can see where life takes Joan, the main character and our narrator.
I am hoping on day that we get a good look at Joan through someone else’s eyes as she is not at all self-complimentary.
Each book gets better and better as we get to know the characters better and start to hope for things to come and this book seems to have gotten everything bang-on.
Back in the country murder again finds our heroine Joan in the middle of a murder case, and as usuall cannot resist trying to solve it, partly I think, because of Detective Inspector Marks!
To me these books are not about the who-dun-its, although they are well written fun and hard to solve, as much as developing great characters and their relationships with the readers.
I look forward to the next so I can see where life takes Joan, the main character and our narrator.
I am hoping on day that we get a good look at Joan through someone else’s eyes as she is not at all self-complimentary.
August 21, 2017
Perfect for those who love to dive into mysteries of the past...
Celina Grace has created a very intriguing mystery series set in England in the early 1930s. This is the third volume with Joan Hart and Verity Hunter as detectives and in this novel you clearly see how the characters’ evolution is effecting the plot. Joan Hart is a woman of her times but also a witty and clever person who wants more from life than just cooking and serving rich people. The sudden murders that take place on her new assignment as cook of Hidden House trigger Joan’s instinct for investigation, leading us into a series of events and secrets that the authoress artfully reveals throughout the story. Skillfully written, this novel is a good combination of suspense and the insight of the servants’ life at those times, a rather unusual point of view which renders the mystery even more interesting.
Celina Grace has created a very intriguing mystery series set in England in the early 1930s. This is the third volume with Joan Hart and Verity Hunter as detectives and in this novel you clearly see how the characters’ evolution is effecting the plot. Joan Hart is a woman of her times but also a witty and clever person who wants more from life than just cooking and serving rich people. The sudden murders that take place on her new assignment as cook of Hidden House trigger Joan’s instinct for investigation, leading us into a series of events and secrets that the authoress artfully reveals throughout the story. Skillfully written, this novel is a good combination of suspense and the insight of the servants’ life at those times, a rather unusual point of view which renders the mystery even more interesting.
August 29, 2017
Just when Verity and Joan think they are going to settle down into a nice job where life is as it should be yet another murder occurs. In this book we see a bit more of a strain on Verity and Joan's relationship which is understandable as well this is there third job where murder has visited them. It was great to see Joan being in charge of the kitchen and moving up in the world of house staff, while also getting closer to her dreams of her play. While Verity tries to keep Dorothy on the straight and narrow Joan kept me in suspense in regards to what she would uncover next, now if only Joan had someone who really appreciated what she says and wasn't too bad to look at to! Yet again there were many twists and surprises that keep you guessing right up to the end!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 11, 2018
The girls are off in the country while Dorothy tries to take a step back from her too much life of drinking and parties. Verity of course goes, but Joan steps in when the cook at the house takes ill. The house is strange an older sort of cousin of Dorothy's, her adopted daughter whom she threatens with disinheritance, and her widowed sister-in-law. A young nephew and his friend are also in residence for a visit. Everyone takes ill after eating some mushroom soup, but then the old lady is found dead on the floor. Joan thinks she was moved. Inspector Marks is soon on the scene. Things make sense with the murder but the personal stuff is just trite
August 10, 2017
I received the book early as a part of the authors fan club. I was hesitant to read this series as opposed to her other series. The Kate Redman series is one of my top ten of books series. This one however is a little all over the place, like my review. I do love the two ladies as a pair, even though Joan does all the heavy lifting. I am curious to see where Joan will go; will she give up being an employee or work with her favorite Inspector? It was a quick and enjoyable read. If you are a Celina Grace fan, check out this series. Her books are inexpensive yet enjoyable.
August 18, 2017
This book is just my cup of tea. A little Upstairs, Downstairs. The detectives are Downstairs. The murder is an English house party type of murder. I particularly like the change of circumstances to both characters from the last book and am excited to see how they grow in the next book. I hate books where the characters lives are in a rut, each book in the series has them living the same lives over and over again . No danger here. It helps if you have read Death at the Manor a sort of prequel to this series. I received a free copy in return for a fair review.
June 2, 2018
I am enjoying the Miss Hart and Miss Hunter series. Good mysteries and good, fun characters.
Joan Hart and Verity Hunter have moved to the country with their employer Dorothy. They are staying Dorothy's aunt's house. Shortly after they get there, many people come down with food poisoning, or so they think. Then Dorothy's aunt is found dead. The girls are forced to try and figure out what happened. As luck would have it, the local detective used to work with Joan's friend Inspector Marks.
I hope there are more books soon.
Joan Hart and Verity Hunter have moved to the country with their employer Dorothy. They are staying Dorothy's aunt's house. Shortly after they get there, many people come down with food poisoning, or so they think. Then Dorothy's aunt is found dead. The girls are forced to try and figure out what happened. As luck would have it, the local detective used to work with Joan's friend Inspector Marks.
I hope there are more books soon.
March 11, 2024
The author injects too much modern thinking and language into her writing, which makes her books unconvincing and often bordering on the ridiculous. Why set a story in 1934 when you can't make it realistic? A member of staff behaving like Joan Hart would be immediately fired without a reference.
"The Hidden House Murders" is a passable murder mystery but the ridiculous modernity of Joan Hart's thinking and language prevent the reader from losing themselves in the story. The fact that the main character ceaselessly complains about everything is the final nail in the coffin.
"The Hidden House Murders" is a passable murder mystery but the ridiculous modernity of Joan Hart's thinking and language prevent the reader from losing themselves in the story. The fact that the main character ceaselessly complains about everything is the final nail in the coffin.
August 8, 2017
I have enjoyed all of the Celina Grace books that I've read, this one included. As her series progress you learn more about the main characters; what they like and how they think. There is a wonderful bond of friendship that has continued to develop between Joan Hart, cook, and Verity Hunter, ladies maid. There is a nice twist at the end that I didn't anticipate. This is a fun read and I look forward to the next book in the series.
September 12, 2020
Excellent series featuring Joan and Verity continues.
Another country house murder tale told from the perspctivee of Joan Hart a cook at Hidden House. With the help of her friend, Verity, a ladies maid , a tangle of attempted and actual murders are solved. Fascinating look at the lives of servants are included for lovers of period pieces. There is some romance but nothing explicit. The author is skilled as a storyteller.
Another country house murder tale told from the perspctivee of Joan Hart a cook at Hidden House. With the help of her friend, Verity, a ladies maid , a tangle of attempted and actual murders are solved. Fascinating look at the lives of servants are included for lovers of period pieces. There is some romance but nothing explicit. The author is skilled as a storyteller.
February 13, 2021
I do enjoy these but realistically, a cook who kept getting mixed up in murders, and speaking to the police, and getting in the papers - not to mention being involved in a case of poisoning that seemed at first very like food poisoning! - would be fired. Would be absolutely unable to get work in a decent household, I'm pretty sure.
That small quibble aside, these are a fun and reasonably well-researched read. I like Miss Hart and Miss Hunter.
That small quibble aside, these are a fun and reasonably well-researched read. I like Miss Hart and Miss Hunter.
August 11, 2017
Loved it! Best book in the series, it had me guessing all the way to the end. Just when you think you have a clue about the murderer, something happens to make you not only doubt yourself, but to question other players. Well done Celina, keep 'em coming!! Oh, a great ending by the way.....and I'll say no more 😉
August 11, 2017
I found this book up to Celina Grace' s usual high standard. The writing style is in keeping with the period in which it is set and is easy to slip into -the period that is. The murder comes along fairly promptly and becomes absorbing quickly. The twists and turns develop nicely including the relationship between Joan and a former acquaintance. The surprise at the end is masterly!
February 25, 2018
Enjoyed this one much the same as the first two books in the series. Like the development of Joan from undercook to cook to now a playwright. Interested to see where that goes as well as her developing relationship with the inspector. Definitely looking forward to the next Celina Grace book, whether it is Kate Redmond or Miss Hart and Miss Hunter.
February 21, 2023
charming
I love historical mysteries and this is a good one. The two main characters have a good working relationship and complement each other. They might be working as servants at a stately house but both are clever. The denouement was clever with a twist that I hadn’t expected. I will be reading the next in the series.
I love historical mysteries and this is a good one. The two main characters have a good working relationship and complement each other. They might be working as servants at a stately house but both are clever. The denouement was clever with a twist that I hadn’t expected. I will be reading the next in the series.
August 19, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I love that it is set back in the 1930s. Everything is described so good that I can see it as I read it. I loved the characters. I have not read any of the other books in this series, but will definitely will be doing that soon.
August 31, 2017
Give this book a try
I stumbled across the first Miss Hart and Miss Hunter and was hooked. The characters are believable and continue to develop with each book. I can't wait for book 4.
I stumbled across the first Miss Hart and Miss Hunter and was hooked. The characters are believable and continue to develop with each book. I can't wait for book 4.
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