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Her Royal Spyness #12
Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding
In the days leading up to her wedding to Darcy O’Mara, Lady Georgiana Rannoch takes on the responsibilities of a grand estate, but proving she can run a household just may be the death of her in the new Royal Spyness Mystery from the New York Times bestselling author of On Her Majesty’s Frightfully Secret Service.
If only Darcy and I had eloped! What I thought would be a simple wedding has been transformed into a grand affair, thanks to the attendance of the queen, who has offered up the princesses as bridesmaids. Silly me! I thought that withdrawing from the royal line of succession would simplify my life. But before Darcy and I tie the knot in front of queen and country, we have to find a place to live as man and wife...
House hunting turns out to be a pretty grim affair. Just as we start to lose hope, my globetrotting godfather offers us his fully staffed country estate. Mistress of Eynsleigh I shall be! With Darcy off in parts unknown, I head to Eynsleigh alone, only to have my hopes dashed. The grounds are in disarray and the small staff is suspiciously incompetent. Not to mention the gas tap leak in my bedroom, which I can only imagine was an attempt on my life. Something rotten is afoot—and bringing the place up to snuff may put me six feet under before I even get a chance to walk down the aisle...
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 7, 2018
1370 people are currently reading
4157 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Bowen
123 books9,574 followersI'm a New York Times bestselling mystery author, winner of both Agatha and Anthony awards for my Molly Murphy mysteries, set in 1902 New York City.
I have recently published four internationally bestselling WWII novels, one of them a #1 Kindle bestseller, and the Tuscan Child selling almost a million copies to date. In Farleigh Field won three major awards and was nominated for an Edgar. My other stand-alone novels are The Victory Garden, about land girls in WWI and Above the Bay of Angels, featuring a young woman who becomes chef for Queen Victoria.
April 2021 will mark the publication of THE VENICE SKETCHBOOK--another sweeping historical novel of love, loss and intrigue.
My books are currently translated into 29 languages and I have fans worldwide.
I also write the Agatha-winning Royal Spyness series, about the British royal family in the 1930s. It's lighter, sexier, funnier, wicked satire. It was voted by readers as best mystery series one year.
I am also known for my Constable Evans books, set in North Wales, and for my award-winning short stories.
I was born and raised in England but currently divide my time between California and Arizona where I go to escape from the harsh California winters
When I am not writing I love to travel, sing, hike, play my Celtic harp.
Series:
* Constable Evan Mystery
* Molly Murphy Mysteries
* Her Royal Spyness Mysteries
Awards:
Agatha Award
◊ Best Novel (2001): Murphy's Law
Reviewer's Choice Award
◊ Historical Mystery (2001): Murphy's Law
I have recently published four internationally bestselling WWII novels, one of them a #1 Kindle bestseller, and the Tuscan Child selling almost a million copies to date. In Farleigh Field won three major awards and was nominated for an Edgar. My other stand-alone novels are The Victory Garden, about land girls in WWI and Above the Bay of Angels, featuring a young woman who becomes chef for Queen Victoria.
April 2021 will mark the publication of THE VENICE SKETCHBOOK--another sweeping historical novel of love, loss and intrigue.
My books are currently translated into 29 languages and I have fans worldwide.
I also write the Agatha-winning Royal Spyness series, about the British royal family in the 1930s. It's lighter, sexier, funnier, wicked satire. It was voted by readers as best mystery series one year.
I am also known for my Constable Evans books, set in North Wales, and for my award-winning short stories.
I was born and raised in England but currently divide my time between California and Arizona where I go to escape from the harsh California winters
When I am not writing I love to travel, sing, hike, play my Celtic harp.
Series:
* Constable Evan Mystery
* Molly Murphy Mysteries
* Her Royal Spyness Mysteries
Awards:
Agatha Award
◊ Best Novel (2001): Murphy's Law
Reviewer's Choice Award
◊ Historical Mystery (2001): Murphy's Law
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,091 reviews
June 6, 2018
This was my first time reading a book in the Her Royal Spyness series and I enjoyed it so much I might have to go check out the previous books. Despite me jumping in to the 12th book in the series, I never felt lost as the author did a good job with giving background info of the main characters.
This was just a really cute and fun book that takes place in 1930s England. I loved the historical fiction aspect of the book as members of the royal family were characters in the story. It was the characters and setting that held my interest more so than the actual mystery. Overall, an enjoyable read for when you are looking for a book that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
This was just a really cute and fun book that takes place in 1930s England. I loved the historical fiction aspect of the book as members of the royal family were characters in the story. It was the characters and setting that held my interest more so than the actual mystery. Overall, an enjoyable read for when you are looking for a book that doesn't take itself too seriously.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
December 11, 2021
The books in this series are always quick, easy reads and they are entertaining. This one was less entertaining than others.
At last Georgiana and Darcy are tying the knot. Or are they? Darcy spends most of the book elsewhere leaving Georgiana on her own (as usual) to cope with illegal goings on at a country house, a number of deaths, and all the arrangements for the wedding day. All this without even knowing where he is. I am afraid I am getting quite irritated with this man and seriously want Georgiana to be a bit more demanding.
At least she has the gumption to deal with the staff at the country house and discover their evil doings and deal with them. The mystery was interesting as were the many characters who were involved. The Queen only has a minor role in this book with a few ideas to offer in the wedding plans and an appearance at the wedding itself. Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret are bridesmaids which is fun!
The usual really and I did enjoy reading it. Just that someone needs to give Darcy a talking to!
At last Georgiana and Darcy are tying the knot. Or are they? Darcy spends most of the book elsewhere leaving Georgiana on her own (as usual) to cope with illegal goings on at a country house, a number of deaths, and all the arrangements for the wedding day. All this without even knowing where he is. I am afraid I am getting quite irritated with this man and seriously want Georgiana to be a bit more demanding.
At least she has the gumption to deal with the staff at the country house and discover their evil doings and deal with them. The mystery was interesting as were the many characters who were involved. The Queen only has a minor role in this book with a few ideas to offer in the wedding plans and an appearance at the wedding itself. Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret are bridesmaids which is fun!
The usual really and I did enjoy reading it. Just that someone needs to give Darcy a talking to!
April 19, 2018
Georgie and her adventures continue to be an absolute delight. Bowen’s terrific series is filled with laughter, capers, and an entire cast of unforgettable characters; and the latest installment, FOUR FUNERALS AND MAYBE A WEDDING, is certain to please new readers and long-time fans of the series alike. The road to matrimony may not run smoothly for Georgie and her darling Darcy, but readers are most definitely in for a rip-roaring good time.
August 7, 2018
Delightful mystery.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have heard of this author prior to reading this book. But what I didn’t realize, or it just didn't sink in, was that this book is a part of a series. However, I didn’t let that stop me. I think most author's are pretty good and giving us glimpses of past stories so we can catch up.
The beginning was a bit slow as I was starting to learn the characters and get comfortable with storyline. I really wasn’t sure where it was going initially. Once I reached about a quarter of the way through, the story started to pick up and my interest really grew.
Set in the 30s, this story became a delightful read once I got settled into the plot. Set in England, we get a taste of the aristocrat along with the realities of the pauper combined into one main character.
Surrounded by her impending nuptials, Georgie gets a surprise invitation to live in her ex-stepfather's home. Once she arrives, she realizes that there are huge issues, not to mention someone is trying to kill her!
I love how the author added unique twists and hints to solving the mystery along the way. The story is inventive and loaded with interesting characters that capture your attention. Many of them are seen in other novels in this series. It was fun to get to know them!
I love how Georgie learned to assert herself and protect what is her's, just within this story. I do wish Darcy was a bit more involved so I could get to know him better. But that will be for other books, I'm sure.
This story is beautifully constructed and full of tidbits that will come back to be an important part of the story. Delightfully detailed and well written for hours of entertainment. I am looking forward to more in the series!
* copy received for review consideration
full review -https://amidlifewife.com/four-funeral...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have heard of this author prior to reading this book. But what I didn’t realize, or it just didn't sink in, was that this book is a part of a series. However, I didn’t let that stop me. I think most author's are pretty good and giving us glimpses of past stories so we can catch up.
The beginning was a bit slow as I was starting to learn the characters and get comfortable with storyline. I really wasn’t sure where it was going initially. Once I reached about a quarter of the way through, the story started to pick up and my interest really grew.
Set in the 30s, this story became a delightful read once I got settled into the plot. Set in England, we get a taste of the aristocrat along with the realities of the pauper combined into one main character.
Surrounded by her impending nuptials, Georgie gets a surprise invitation to live in her ex-stepfather's home. Once she arrives, she realizes that there are huge issues, not to mention someone is trying to kill her!
I love how the author added unique twists and hints to solving the mystery along the way. The story is inventive and loaded with interesting characters that capture your attention. Many of them are seen in other novels in this series. It was fun to get to know them!
I love how Georgie learned to assert herself and protect what is her's, just within this story. I do wish Darcy was a bit more involved so I could get to know him better. But that will be for other books, I'm sure.
This story is beautifully constructed and full of tidbits that will come back to be an important part of the story. Delightfully detailed and well written for hours of entertainment. I am looking forward to more in the series!
* copy received for review consideration
full review -https://amidlifewife.com/four-funeral...
August 14, 2018
*Listened to the audiobook*
I think i finally fell out of love with this series. I really hate to write a negative review because I am in love with the characters. The tribute to Katherine Kellgren was touching. The newer voice was fantastic and did a great job of picking up the novel.
My actual problem is that I don't believe Georgie is maturing through this series. She seems to actually become more annoying as the series goes forward.
Another part I hate is the handling of the "lower class" in this novel. I guess I wanted Georgie to be able to see for herself the double-sided nature of her thoughts. She both reminds her staff that they are beneath her as well as insists on her father be treated similarly to herself as a royal. There is also some reality in that once she is married, she will not be "royal". So even if she doesn't get it now, she will soon have to.
The mystery itself was predictable.
Because I hate to not finish something, I will probably read the next in the series. But hopefully, Georgie grows up.
I think i finally fell out of love with this series. I really hate to write a negative review because I am in love with the characters. The tribute to Katherine Kellgren was touching. The newer voice was fantastic and did a great job of picking up the novel.
My actual problem is that I don't believe Georgie is maturing through this series. She seems to actually become more annoying as the series goes forward.
Another part I hate is the handling of the "lower class" in this novel. I guess I wanted Georgie to be able to see for herself the double-sided nature of her thoughts. She both reminds her staff that they are beneath her as well as insists on her father be treated similarly to herself as a royal. There is also some reality in that once she is married, she will not be "royal". So even if she doesn't get it now, she will soon have to.
The mystery itself was predictable.
Because I hate to not finish something, I will probably read the next in the series. But hopefully, Georgie grows up.
February 27, 2023
One of my favorite books in the series so far.
September 15, 2018
Ok, three stars, as in “it was okay”, because I’ve read every book in the series and enjoyed many of them, but some outings have felt like padding, and this was one of them.
I just couldn’t get into it, and didn’t know why; I got so frustrated, I even looked ahead to the last few pages to see so I figured I’d finish the book, but skimmed the last third or so.
Anyway, Georgie and Darcy are looking for a home for when they’re married, but not having much luck, so she’s thrilled when Sir Hubert, one of her mother’s ex-husbands, offers her Eynsleigh, his estate. He’s made Georgie his heir, she spent three years there as a child, and he is a mountain climber off adventuring most of the time; he wants her and Darcy to make their home there, and he’ll use a wing when he’s at home- perfect! But something is not right - the place is rundown, the servants are incompetent, treasures are missing...
The annoying part was Georgie is suspicious, wrings her hands, hopes Darcy comes or Belinda, or Zou Zou; she stands up for herself a bit, but nothing really happens. She interviews a few old servants, snoops a bit, but never has enough to really go on. Kind of a non-mystery mystery; the best parts are when she’s with Queenie, her mother, her grandfather, and Belinda, near the end. I’ve always liked the characters, and will read the next book through the library - the good books in the series have been very enjoyable, but this one was just “meh”.
I just couldn’t get into it, and didn’t know why; I got so frustrated, I even looked ahead to the last few pages to see so I figured I’d finish the book, but skimmed the last third or so.
Anyway, Georgie and Darcy are looking for a home for when they’re married, but not having much luck, so she’s thrilled when Sir Hubert, one of her mother’s ex-husbands, offers her Eynsleigh, his estate. He’s made Georgie his heir, she spent three years there as a child, and he is a mountain climber off adventuring most of the time; he wants her and Darcy to make their home there, and he’ll use a wing when he’s at home- perfect! But something is not right - the place is rundown, the servants are incompetent, treasures are missing...
The annoying part was Georgie is suspicious, wrings her hands, hopes Darcy comes or Belinda, or Zou Zou; she stands up for herself a bit, but nothing really happens. She interviews a few old servants, snoops a bit, but never has enough to really go on. Kind of a non-mystery mystery; the best parts are when she’s with Queenie, her mother, her grandfather, and Belinda, near the end. I’ve always liked the characters, and will read the next book through the library - the good books in the series have been very enjoyable, but this one was just “meh”.
September 20, 2018
i have really enjoyed this series and its cast of characters. This one, unfortunately, was not up to par. Georgie came across as weirdly adolescent, especially where her fiancé Darcy was concerned. The chemistry between the two of them was nonexistent and if Georgie persists with her jealousy, I’m not sure how their marriage could last. The mystery had potential but was not developed beyond the barest bones. There were lots of descriptions of meals and clothing though. I hope the next one in the series will have more to it.
August 9, 2018
I Must say that I am quite disappointed on this book.I love Her Royal Spyneas Series. I was even reading it again to get in the mood and was really looking forward this new book. However, it’s not up to the same standard. Georgie isn’t witty, Claire is not herself. We almost don’t see anything of Belinda and Darcy. Her sleuthing is just almost no sleuthing, at list she grows into the lady of the manor role. And to top it all, the much anticipated wedding was cutoff with a few pages.
I don’t know what happened to Rhys Bowen while writing this book. Maybe she was t in the mood and hat to get on with it because of her publisher. Who knows. I’m just left so disappointed behind!
I don’t know what happened to Rhys Bowen while writing this book. Maybe she was t in the mood and hat to get on with it because of her publisher. Who knows. I’m just left so disappointed behind!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2018
Georgie always seems to draw the short end of the stick in life and manages to get herself in the worst predicaments- (It wouldn't be Georgie if she didn't) but it was nice to see that things are finally looking up for her!! : )
*I received this ARC from First to Read in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
*I received this ARC from First to Read in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
May 3, 2021
Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding by Rhys Bowen is the 12th book in the Royal Spyness Mystery series. Lady Georgiana Rannoch is busy with wedding preparations when she is offered to move into Eynsleigh, a country estate owned by her globetrotting godfather. However she finds the place rundown with an incompetent staff and suspicious activities. Another fabulous and delightful addition to the series. I love Georgie's kindness and resourcefulness, always managing to get things done. Very entertaining and fun. I do miss the narration of Katherine Kellgren though.
February 13, 2024
They are finally married! Queenie is finally bearable! We had a book that didn't include Mrs. Simpson (Thank God) . The mystery was ok but that wasn't what I was focused on and I wished the wedding scene was longer. Glad for their home! It sounds so cute and homely.
October 8, 2018
Another fun romp with Lady Georgiana and her beau, Darcy. They are finally getting married and Georgie has given up her place on the line for the throne (I think it was 35th anyway). Now the planning for the wedding and married life begins.
The Queen wants an elaborate wedding at Westminister Cathedral with the heads of all the royal houses in attendance. Georgie is appalled but agrees to have the little princesses, Margaret and Elizabeth, as bridesmaids. All the beloved characters are assembled. Binky will give her away, Belinda will make her dress and her mom will buy her a trousseau.
Then an ex-stepfather offers her the use of his castle to live in as he travels the world. Thank goodness. Georgie makes her way there and find something is not right there. There are the rude servants, the horrible cook, the missing heirlooms and a crazy lady with birds for her to deal with.
As Georgie tries to handle the situation family related deaths occur and she must straighten those out too.
A fun book and I certainly hope it's not the last of the series. I enjoy her too much.
The Queen wants an elaborate wedding at Westminister Cathedral with the heads of all the royal houses in attendance. Georgie is appalled but agrees to have the little princesses, Margaret and Elizabeth, as bridesmaids. All the beloved characters are assembled. Binky will give her away, Belinda will make her dress and her mom will buy her a trousseau.
Then an ex-stepfather offers her the use of his castle to live in as he travels the world. Thank goodness. Georgie makes her way there and find something is not right there. There are the rude servants, the horrible cook, the missing heirlooms and a crazy lady with birds for her to deal with.
As Georgie tries to handle the situation family related deaths occur and she must straighten those out too.
A fun book and I certainly hope it's not the last of the series. I enjoy her too much.
November 16, 2025
If you took the movie 4 Weddings and a Funeral and placed it in 1930's then you'd get this cute novel, Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding.
Funtastic read. A proper, historical, British murder mystery and all the tea to back it up...
I received this ARC copy of Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding from Berkley. This is my honest and voluntary review. Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding is set for publication August 7, 2018.
Funtastic read. A proper, historical, British murder mystery and all the tea to back it up...
I received this ARC copy of Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding from Berkley. This is my honest and voluntary review. Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding is set for publication August 7, 2018.
May 2, 2022
Started slow, but continues to be cozy
I’m amazed I’ve read 12 of these!
I’m amazed I’ve read 12 of these!
July 6, 2019
*4.5 stars ✨
August 11, 2018
The Royal Spyness mystery series is one that has been gifted and recommended to me more times than I can count. I literally have three copies of the first book from my mom because she keeps forgetting that she already recommended it to me.
So clearly it’s a book that people want me to read. I just haven’t thought about it when I am looking for something to read. I am no stranger to Rhys Bowen’s books though. She writes beautifully and I love reading her stand alone books!
Finally, after all this time, I picked up a Royal Spyness mystery…..about twelve books too late!
So clearly I need to read the first twelve books! Georgie is smart, funny, and sassy. I love her! It’s very evident that this is a series and yes there are bits and pieces of the greater story that I am missing, but overall I think that Bowen does a good job giving readers a rough sketch when necessary and leaving us to focus on the plot at hand.
As someone who’s coming into this series eleven books behind, it’s a hard one to review. I loved all the twists and turns of this mystery with all the charming elements that make British mysteries what they are…..charming is literally the only word coming to mind right now.
There were little hints and tidbits of information that kept me reading and drove the story. I loved trying to apply the clues and figure things out. There were a host of other supporting characters that kept things interesting. I loved how well this story flowed. Having read some of the Molly Murphy mysteries, it is clear that mysteries are Bowen’s bread and butter, but this series in particular is where she shines. But yet it was hard for me to read this book, let alone review it, because I wanted to know all the little nuances of the larger plot. Basically, I needed those eleven other books!
Was it absolutely critical to this particular mystery that I read the other books? No I suppose not, but I liked Georgie so much and wanted to know how she ended up at this point. In essence—I wanted more back story because the character was so delightful.
I know I say this after every Bowen book I read but now I feel an absolute desire to read the first book in this series, I need more Georgie!
See my full review here
So clearly it’s a book that people want me to read. I just haven’t thought about it when I am looking for something to read. I am no stranger to Rhys Bowen’s books though. She writes beautifully and I love reading her stand alone books!
Finally, after all this time, I picked up a Royal Spyness mystery…..about twelve books too late!
So clearly I need to read the first twelve books! Georgie is smart, funny, and sassy. I love her! It’s very evident that this is a series and yes there are bits and pieces of the greater story that I am missing, but overall I think that Bowen does a good job giving readers a rough sketch when necessary and leaving us to focus on the plot at hand.
As someone who’s coming into this series eleven books behind, it’s a hard one to review. I loved all the twists and turns of this mystery with all the charming elements that make British mysteries what they are…..charming is literally the only word coming to mind right now.
There were little hints and tidbits of information that kept me reading and drove the story. I loved trying to apply the clues and figure things out. There were a host of other supporting characters that kept things interesting. I loved how well this story flowed. Having read some of the Molly Murphy mysteries, it is clear that mysteries are Bowen’s bread and butter, but this series in particular is where she shines. But yet it was hard for me to read this book, let alone review it, because I wanted to know all the little nuances of the larger plot. Basically, I needed those eleven other books!
Was it absolutely critical to this particular mystery that I read the other books? No I suppose not, but I liked Georgie so much and wanted to know how she ended up at this point. In essence—I wanted more back story because the character was so delightful.
I know I say this after every Bowen book I read but now I feel an absolute desire to read the first book in this series, I need more Georgie!
See my full review here
September 20, 2018
It’s a big stretch to give this one 3 stars.
In this, the 12th installation I think, the heroine has inexplicably morphed from an energetic, clever, proudly independent, distinctly egalitarian distant-royal who seems at least as at home with the servant class as any other, to the opposite. And not in a likable, humorous, or otherwise redemptive way.
The story was as predictable as ever, but this time the company of the characters along the way did not make it a worthwhile journey.
So, maybe another light-reading series bites the dust of my reading list.
In this, the 12th installation I think, the heroine has inexplicably morphed from an energetic, clever, proudly independent, distinctly egalitarian distant-royal who seems at least as at home with the servant class as any other, to the opposite. And not in a likable, humorous, or otherwise redemptive way.
The story was as predictable as ever, but this time the company of the characters along the way did not make it a worthwhile journey.
So, maybe another light-reading series bites the dust of my reading list.
August 13, 2018
I had so many problems with this book. I don’t want to mark for spoilers, so I’ll simply say it was ridiculous that Georgie didn’t contact the cops or Sir Hubert when things seemed so shady at the house. Also, that whole situation was absurd. The ending wasn’t a disappointment but most of the rest of the book was. Not giving up on Lady Georgie yet, but It’s getting close.
August 16, 2018
Georgiana is getting more clueless as the series goes on. She would be a much more interesting character if she was developing sleuthing skills as she matured. And really, stop with the Golly!
July 22, 2018
Hang with me here: With a fast-approaching release date, this book was next up on my list of advance review copies from the publisher (via NetGalley) and I really needed to get it done. Problem was, one of my top 5 favorite New York Times best-selling mystery/thriller authors had a just-out book that was screaming my name. Oh well, I said - this one's not a 500-pager; I'll hurry through it and get on to the one I really want to read. Well, hurry through it I did - but the reason took an about-face a couple of chapters in. So engaging and entertaining are the characters and story here that I really, really got into it and, for the duration, totally forgot about that "other" book.
Golly.
Now that I've finished, in fact, I'm kicking myself for not finding this series earlier (this is, I believe, the 12th "Royal Spyness" novel). I call it a Royal Treat, and I'm already looking forward to the next one. The setting here is 1935, and series star, Lady Georgiana Rannoch, is in London trying to keep plans for her upcoming wedding to Darcy O'Mara from getting out of hand (the guest list, for instance, keeps growingm but offending royal relatives just wouldn't be proper, don't you know). Half the fun of the book, I hasten to add, is learning how people - rich and poor - lived and interacted way back then.
Early on, Georgie happens upon a reason to be doubtful of her beloved Darcy's faithfulness - and apparently, she has no real idea what he does for a living - but she stalwartly carries on (I guess proper ladies don't ask too many questions). But Darcy makes so few appearances in the book that about all I can discern is that besides being gone much of the time he's dapper, hunky and can charm the socks off of anyone who comes near.
But as Georgie soon learns, there's many a slip between the bridal cup and the lip. Not only must she deal with the fast-approaching wedding details, she must attend the wedding of her mother's father to a woman who's said to be a cruel and awful woman. And then there's Georgie's mother; she's planning to marry a German who's well connected to the Nazis. As if that weren't enough to bring on the vapors, where on earth will Georgie and Darcy live once they're married? Since Darcy isn't around enough to put in an opinion, that decision, too, is left to Georgie.
The matter is happily settled when the out-of-the-country first husband of Georgie's mother offers his home, an enormous estate called Eynsleigh. Or so Georgie thinks - until she moves in to get the house in order. Right away, she must deal with the hired help, who not only don't seem to know their places, but they can't perform their duties responsibly and - lordie - clearly aren't happy that a lady of the manor has settled in to make their lives miserable.
From there on, it could be called utter chaos; the staff still can't, or won't, do their jobs (and how can one possibly survive when the proper accoutrements don't accompany high tea?), monkey wrenches get thrown at a couple of the upcoming weddings and at least one dead body turns up. Georgie's mother's decision to move in doesn't seem to help much; in fact, the two ladies soon learn that they may be facing danger far greater than losing a satin shoe in the mud.
But everything gets worked out in the end, although not necessarily to all the characters' satisfaction. I, however, was totally satisfied with this delightful book. More, please!
Golly.
Now that I've finished, in fact, I'm kicking myself for not finding this series earlier (this is, I believe, the 12th "Royal Spyness" novel). I call it a Royal Treat, and I'm already looking forward to the next one. The setting here is 1935, and series star, Lady Georgiana Rannoch, is in London trying to keep plans for her upcoming wedding to Darcy O'Mara from getting out of hand (the guest list, for instance, keeps growingm but offending royal relatives just wouldn't be proper, don't you know). Half the fun of the book, I hasten to add, is learning how people - rich and poor - lived and interacted way back then.
Early on, Georgie happens upon a reason to be doubtful of her beloved Darcy's faithfulness - and apparently, she has no real idea what he does for a living - but she stalwartly carries on (I guess proper ladies don't ask too many questions). But Darcy makes so few appearances in the book that about all I can discern is that besides being gone much of the time he's dapper, hunky and can charm the socks off of anyone who comes near.
But as Georgie soon learns, there's many a slip between the bridal cup and the lip. Not only must she deal with the fast-approaching wedding details, she must attend the wedding of her mother's father to a woman who's said to be a cruel and awful woman. And then there's Georgie's mother; she's planning to marry a German who's well connected to the Nazis. As if that weren't enough to bring on the vapors, where on earth will Georgie and Darcy live once they're married? Since Darcy isn't around enough to put in an opinion, that decision, too, is left to Georgie.
The matter is happily settled when the out-of-the-country first husband of Georgie's mother offers his home, an enormous estate called Eynsleigh. Or so Georgie thinks - until she moves in to get the house in order. Right away, she must deal with the hired help, who not only don't seem to know their places, but they can't perform their duties responsibly and - lordie - clearly aren't happy that a lady of the manor has settled in to make their lives miserable.
From there on, it could be called utter chaos; the staff still can't, or won't, do their jobs (and how can one possibly survive when the proper accoutrements don't accompany high tea?), monkey wrenches get thrown at a couple of the upcoming weddings and at least one dead body turns up. Georgie's mother's decision to move in doesn't seem to help much; in fact, the two ladies soon learn that they may be facing danger far greater than losing a satin shoe in the mud.
But everything gets worked out in the end, although not necessarily to all the characters' satisfaction. I, however, was totally satisfied with this delightful book. More, please!
August 19, 2018
Her Royal Spyness series is one of my favorites. Sometimes you just need a read that is always fun, full of adventure, peopled by outrageously wonderful characters, and constant with witty conversations. And, having been a fan for so long of Lady Georgie and watching her character gaining firmer footing in her world, I am thrilled that the series has come to the point of this book, Georgie and Darcy set to wed and live happily ever after. Well, readers of this series know that wedding or no, there will be bumps in the road ahead for Lady Georgie, as her path is seldom an easy one. But, Lady Georgie has arrived at a maturity and competency level that serves her well in Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding. There can still be a thin line between fearless and fool hearty, but Lady Georgie is starting to take charge and become her own person.
At last Lady Georgiana Rannoch is planning for her wedding to Darcy O'Mara, and she is faced with doing so in her usual penniless condition. Staying at her and Darcy's friend Princes Zou Zou's house in London, the details begin to come together and work out, as they usually do for Georgie. Her friend Belinda is making her wedding dress, and her brother Binky and his wife Fig have agreed to have the reception for her at Rannoch House in London. Of course, Georgie's sister-in-law Fig could hardly refuse to host the reception after Queen Mary invites herself and the King and other royals to the wedding, as well as offering the two princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret, to be bridesmaids. Even Georgie's mother offers to buy her daughter a trousseau. So, while the wedding plans seem to be under control, Georgie and Darcy are faced with one unavoidable problem. Where will they live after they marry? Even this sticking point falls into place when Georgie receives a letter from her former stepfather, Sir Hubert Anstruther, inviting her to make his country estate Eynsleigh her and Darcy's permanent home. Sir Hubert, who continues to be absent from the home due to his mountain climbing adventures, had already made Georgie his heir to his fortune.
Georgie leaves London for Eynsleigh to ready it for occupancy after the wedding. With fond memories of the country estate's grounds and luxurious accommodations, Georgie is shocked at the condition of house's interior and grounds when she arrives. Then, upon meeting the butler, other household staff, and gardeners, she is appalled at their lack of competency and proper behavior towards her. She soon learns that the entire staff is new, with the old staff let go without explanation when the new butler arrived. Something is rotten in Denmark, but Georgie doesn't yet have the authority to fire anyone and must instead try to determine what is going on. She's glad to have the company of her mother, who accepts Georgie's invitation to visit, when the German industrialist her mother was engaged to breaks off the engagement. As Darcy is away on another of his "secret" missions for the government, it's up to Georgie to set things right at Eynsleigh. Georgie is willing and able to step up to the plate in asserting her control as Mistress of Eynsleigh, but she keeps discovering more and more dark happenings at the estate, and her fight to restore the beloved estate becomes a dangerous undertaking. It's indeed a dire situation when the arrival of Queenie, Georgie's maid and now cook-in-training, signals a positive note. If Georgie can't uncover the quickly deteriorating cause of Eynsleigh's stature, the home she so happily anticipated and the wedding she has so carefully planned may go up in smoke.
At last Lady Georgiana Rannoch is planning for her wedding to Darcy O'Mara, and she is faced with doing so in her usual penniless condition. Staying at her and Darcy's friend Princes Zou Zou's house in London, the details begin to come together and work out, as they usually do for Georgie. Her friend Belinda is making her wedding dress, and her brother Binky and his wife Fig have agreed to have the reception for her at Rannoch House in London. Of course, Georgie's sister-in-law Fig could hardly refuse to host the reception after Queen Mary invites herself and the King and other royals to the wedding, as well as offering the two princesses, Elizabeth and Margaret, to be bridesmaids. Even Georgie's mother offers to buy her daughter a trousseau. So, while the wedding plans seem to be under control, Georgie and Darcy are faced with one unavoidable problem. Where will they live after they marry? Even this sticking point falls into place when Georgie receives a letter from her former stepfather, Sir Hubert Anstruther, inviting her to make his country estate Eynsleigh her and Darcy's permanent home. Sir Hubert, who continues to be absent from the home due to his mountain climbing adventures, had already made Georgie his heir to his fortune.
Georgie leaves London for Eynsleigh to ready it for occupancy after the wedding. With fond memories of the country estate's grounds and luxurious accommodations, Georgie is shocked at the condition of house's interior and grounds when she arrives. Then, upon meeting the butler, other household staff, and gardeners, she is appalled at their lack of competency and proper behavior towards her. She soon learns that the entire staff is new, with the old staff let go without explanation when the new butler arrived. Something is rotten in Denmark, but Georgie doesn't yet have the authority to fire anyone and must instead try to determine what is going on. She's glad to have the company of her mother, who accepts Georgie's invitation to visit, when the German industrialist her mother was engaged to breaks off the engagement. As Darcy is away on another of his "secret" missions for the government, it's up to Georgie to set things right at Eynsleigh. Georgie is willing and able to step up to the plate in asserting her control as Mistress of Eynsleigh, but she keeps discovering more and more dark happenings at the estate, and her fight to restore the beloved estate becomes a dangerous undertaking. It's indeed a dire situation when the arrival of Queenie, Georgie's maid and now cook-in-training, signals a positive note. If Georgie can't uncover the quickly deteriorating cause of Eynsleigh's stature, the home she so happily anticipated and the wedding she has so carefully planned may go up in smoke.
August 7, 2018
I liked this lively mystery in which Lady Georgie is planning her wedding to impecunious Anglo-Irishman Darcy. This is a book of two halves. The first part describes all the plans and hassles of marrying a Catholic while being thirty-something in line to the throne. She's wondering if they'll ever manage it and who will pay the cost of a royal wedding, with dress fittings and the difficulty of finding a flat the pair can afford in 1930s London.
Georgie's uncle over in South America writes and invites her to stay at his country house, so she dashes off to get it opened up and warm. But the small staff are far from pleased to see her. The author has contrived to have her arrive alone without even a maid, and she feels isolated, unwelcome and nervous. Some strange goings on add up to a possible crime or two. Georgie will need help to get to the bottom of it.
A nice touch is Georgie's much-married mother considering marrying again, to a wealthy German industrialist; we're all shouting "No, don't!" And there is the usual name dropping, princesses and other figures of the day, provided they have money, which makes Georgie out to be a shallow person by today's standards but maybe she just didn't meet anyone else.
A modern Americanism or two creep in, such as wanting to "meet with the staff." That would be meet, milady.
This is suitable for teens, but they might get bored by the period setting. If you have not read any others in the series, you can just jump in but I recommend reading an earlier book or two first.
I was sent an e-ARC by Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
Georgie's uncle over in South America writes and invites her to stay at his country house, so she dashes off to get it opened up and warm. But the small staff are far from pleased to see her. The author has contrived to have her arrive alone without even a maid, and she feels isolated, unwelcome and nervous. Some strange goings on add up to a possible crime or two. Georgie will need help to get to the bottom of it.
A nice touch is Georgie's much-married mother considering marrying again, to a wealthy German industrialist; we're all shouting "No, don't!" And there is the usual name dropping, princesses and other figures of the day, provided they have money, which makes Georgie out to be a shallow person by today's standards but maybe she just didn't meet anyone else.
A modern Americanism or two creep in, such as wanting to "meet with the staff." That would be meet, milady.
This is suitable for teens, but they might get bored by the period setting. If you have not read any others in the series, you can just jump in but I recommend reading an earlier book or two first.
I was sent an e-ARC by Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.
July 23, 2018
A delight and a must read! Four Funerals and Maybe a Wedding from author Rhys Bowen is a spectacular read. I have loved this series since book one and they truly just blow my mind with each new book. This one is well thought out and full of twists and turns as well as that perfect cozy happy ending. Main Character Lady Georgiana is very easy to relate too, very much the unsuspecting sleuth, and all around amazing lady. In this book she is about to marry, still pretty much penniless and very much an important behind the scenes royal. I love her storyline, her best friend, mother and grandfather. As a granddaughter of Queen Victoria and cousin of the King, Lady Georgiana does a great job of leading by example and being incredibly lucky. Her bridesmaids sure gave me a smile! I think this is such a great series and I hope you will love it too. This one is out August 7th. I love this cover.
July 20, 2018
3.5 stars
Georgie is back, this time planning her wedding as both her mother and grandfather are planning theirs. She’s dealing with wedding dress drama, her royal relatives inviting themselves, and Darcy’s (usual) absence when she receives a welcome invitation from Sir Hubert, one of her mother’s ex-husbands. Sir Hubert always had been fond of Georgie, and in fact had made her his heir, and he invites her to take residence permanently on his estate. Georgie had very fond memories of her time there and is eager to accept. Only when she arrives, things are not quite as she remembers. Sir Hubert has been away for years climbing mountains around the world, and his estate has fallen into disuse with only a handful of servants who are new. Georgie quickly discerns that, even beyond the neglect, all is not well.
The story brings together some favorite characters, including Georgie’s mother and grandfather, Queenie (who surprisingly has become a good cook), and other friends and family who all want to make sure Georgie makes it to her own nuptuals intact. Darcy makes only a few appearances, but those are the important ones. The ending leaves us with perhaps a slightly new direction for the series. I hope that Darcy can and will share a bit more of his secret life with Georgie and that she grows in confidence to truly be a partner to him in all matters. That would be fun to read.
Georgie is back, this time planning her wedding as both her mother and grandfather are planning theirs. She’s dealing with wedding dress drama, her royal relatives inviting themselves, and Darcy’s (usual) absence when she receives a welcome invitation from Sir Hubert, one of her mother’s ex-husbands. Sir Hubert always had been fond of Georgie, and in fact had made her his heir, and he invites her to take residence permanently on his estate. Georgie had very fond memories of her time there and is eager to accept. Only when she arrives, things are not quite as she remembers. Sir Hubert has been away for years climbing mountains around the world, and his estate has fallen into disuse with only a handful of servants who are new. Georgie quickly discerns that, even beyond the neglect, all is not well.
The story brings together some favorite characters, including Georgie’s mother and grandfather, Queenie (who surprisingly has become a good cook), and other friends and family who all want to make sure Georgie makes it to her own nuptuals intact. Darcy makes only a few appearances, but those are the important ones. The ending leaves us with perhaps a slightly new direction for the series. I hope that Darcy can and will share a bit more of his secret life with Georgie and that she grows in confidence to truly be a partner to him in all matters. That would be fun to read.
August 9, 2018
In the I
12th book of Her Royal Spyness series, Lady Georgiana Rannoch is in London to plan her wedding. With all the problems with her plans, she is sorry they didn't manage to elope. She is still waiting for her degree allowing her to marry Darcy than Queen Mary invites herself to the wedding and suggested that the princess be bridesmaids, the church Darcy wants to be married and Georgiana must be approved by the Catholic church. Her Mother has joined her as her German boyfriend's Father has passed away and her future is not clear. Where she and Darcy will live is not clear. Georgiana received a letter from her Godfather informing her to move into
Endsleigh and make it her home. She makes the move and all is not right there. The twists and turns the book takes on have you turning the pages. More deaths occur before Georgiana and her Mother understand what was issuing at Endsleigh. Does the wedding take place? I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Berkley for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own
12th book of Her Royal Spyness series, Lady Georgiana Rannoch is in London to plan her wedding. With all the problems with her plans, she is sorry they didn't manage to elope. She is still waiting for her degree allowing her to marry Darcy than Queen Mary invites herself to the wedding and suggested that the princess be bridesmaids, the church Darcy wants to be married and Georgiana must be approved by the Catholic church. Her Mother has joined her as her German boyfriend's Father has passed away and her future is not clear. Where she and Darcy will live is not clear. Georgiana received a letter from her Godfather informing her to move into
Endsleigh and make it her home. She makes the move and all is not right there. The twists and turns the book takes on have you turning the pages. More deaths occur before Georgiana and her Mother understand what was issuing at Endsleigh. Does the wedding take place? I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the book and series.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Berkley for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own
February 6, 2019
This series has been going downhill for a while. The main thing that made me continue was the talent of the narrator, as I noted in my review of the last book. Well, bad news: the narrator died! She will be missed.
September 3, 2018
I love this addicting series! 💖 Action, humor, mystery, and romance what more could you ask for! I hope there are more books coming in this series.
August 14, 2018
Weddings are in the air this summer for Lady Georgiana (aka Georgie). Her mother and grandfather are preparing for their respective weddings. The best of all is her own wedding to Darcy O’Mara in just a few weeks. There is quite a bit of planning to do, but first they must find a suitable place to call home. As luck would have it, one of her mother’s former husbands, Sir Hubert, offers his estate to Georgie and her future husband. They eagerly accept this invitation.
While Darcy leaves town on business, Georgie heads to their new home to make sure everything is in place for their official arrival. Instead, she finds the estate in disarray with a staff of servants who are somewhat less than helpful. Most of Sir Hubert's valuables are gone and Georgie wonders what Sir Hubert got her involved in. Meanwhile, Sir Hubert is out of town and unreachable. When a visitor to the estate mysteriously disappears, Georgie is sure something unscrupulous is going on. With help from her mother and grandfather, she decides to stick it out and get to the bottom of it all. However, danger seems to lurk at every step they take.
This is the 12th book in Her Royal Spyness series. Previously, I only read the short prequel to the series, which I enjoyed. I decided to take a chance with this one even though I didn’t read the previous 11 books. I’m so glad I did. I never felt as if I were lost at all. I admit, I do want read the books I missed in this series, but it didn’t ruin reading this one for me. I’m not usually a fan of historical fiction, but I had heard so much about this series that I just had to jump right in and give it a try.
The characters are well-developed, eccentric and a joy to read. I always enjoy books that are set in a mysterious mansion, so that was another plus for me. I immediately fell in love with Georgie. She’s a delightful character. Queenie, her maid, is another favorite of mine. I would have liked more appearances by Darcy, but I did enjoy what I saw so far.
The story itself is a clever mystery involving theft and dead bodies to the backdrop of weddings and all the craziness that goes along with planning one wedding, let alone three. While the story was a good one, it’s the characters that hooked me into this series. It's a charming series that keeps you guessing what Georgie will get herself into next. I can’t wait to dig into the backlist of this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
While Darcy leaves town on business, Georgie heads to their new home to make sure everything is in place for their official arrival. Instead, she finds the estate in disarray with a staff of servants who are somewhat less than helpful. Most of Sir Hubert's valuables are gone and Georgie wonders what Sir Hubert got her involved in. Meanwhile, Sir Hubert is out of town and unreachable. When a visitor to the estate mysteriously disappears, Georgie is sure something unscrupulous is going on. With help from her mother and grandfather, she decides to stick it out and get to the bottom of it all. However, danger seems to lurk at every step they take.
This is the 12th book in Her Royal Spyness series. Previously, I only read the short prequel to the series, which I enjoyed. I decided to take a chance with this one even though I didn’t read the previous 11 books. I’m so glad I did. I never felt as if I were lost at all. I admit, I do want read the books I missed in this series, but it didn’t ruin reading this one for me. I’m not usually a fan of historical fiction, but I had heard so much about this series that I just had to jump right in and give it a try.
The characters are well-developed, eccentric and a joy to read. I always enjoy books that are set in a mysterious mansion, so that was another plus for me. I immediately fell in love with Georgie. She’s a delightful character. Queenie, her maid, is another favorite of mine. I would have liked more appearances by Darcy, but I did enjoy what I saw so far.
The story itself is a clever mystery involving theft and dead bodies to the backdrop of weddings and all the craziness that goes along with planning one wedding, let alone three. While the story was a good one, it’s the characters that hooked me into this series. It's a charming series that keeps you guessing what Georgie will get herself into next. I can’t wait to dig into the backlist of this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 1, 2022
This one was the most interesting from the series!
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